Labyrinth type heat storage water tank and heat supply system and method applying same

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of heat supply, and discloses a labyrinth type heat storage water tank and a heat supply system and method.The labyrinth type heat storage water tank comprises a tank body, a zigzag flow channel is formed in the tank body, a plurality of water distribution openings communicated with the zigzag flow channel are formed in the tank body, and the water distribution openings are projected in the first direction; the box body is further provided with a water return port, a first water outlet and a second water outlet, the first water outlet is communicated with the tail end of the winding flow channel, the water return port and the second water outlet are communicated with the initial end of the winding flow channel, and the first water outlet and the second water outlet are communicated with the tail end of the winding flow channel. Working liquid heated in a heat pump mode, a solar photovoltaic heating mode and the like flows back to the winding flow channel through the water distribution opening and is mixed with low-temperature working liquid in the winding flow channel, so that the temperature of the working liquid flowing in the winding flow channel is increased, and finally it is guaranteed that the temperature fluctuation range of the working liquid discharged out of the first water outlet is small, and heat supply is stable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of heating, and in particular to a labyrinth-type heat storage tank, and a heating system and method using the heat storage tank. Background Art

[0002] In many industrial production fields, such as cigarette production, food processing, and pharmaceutical production, especially cigarette production, the operation of production equipment often requires a large amount of heat. To meet these needs, the current common heating method is to store hot water in a thermal storage tank and then transport the hot water to the production equipment that needs it, providing the required heat through heat exchange.

[0003] However, in the actual hot water supply process, heat loss is inevitable as the hot water flows through the water storage tank, and it is also difficult to maintain a uniform temperature distribution within the water storage tank. These problems significantly reduce the stability of the heating supply and, in some cases, even adversely affect the production performance of production equipment with strict temperature requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of the present invention is to overcome the problem of low heating stability of existing heating systems and to provide a labyrinth-type heat storage tank and a heating system and method using the heat storage tank, which can improve the heating stability.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides, in a first aspect, a labyrinth-type water storage tank, comprising a tank body having a serpentine flow channel therein, the tank body being provided with a plurality of water distribution ports connected to the serpentine flow channel, wherein, projected along a first direction, the plurality of water distribution ports are distributed in a serpentine shape, and the serpentine path of the serpentine flow channel is consistent with the distribution path of the water distribution ports;

[0006] The box body is also provided with a return water port, a first water outlet and a second water outlet. The first water outlet is connected to the end of the winding flow channel, and the return water port and the second water outlet are connected to the starting end of the winding flow channel.

[0007] In some embodiments, a plurality of partitions are fixedly provided in the interior space of the box body, and the plurality of partitions divide the interior space of the box body to form the winding flow channel.

[0008] A second aspect of the present invention provides a heating system comprising a heat pump unit, a heat pump station, a main pipeline, and the labyrinth-type heat storage tank as described above, wherein the water inlet of the heat pump unit is connected to the second water outlet, and the water outlet of the heat pump unit is connected to all the water distribution outlets;

[0009] The water inlet end of the heating pump station is connected to the first water outlet, one end of the main pipeline is connected to the water outlet end of the heating pump station and the other end is connected to the return water port, a first stop valve and a second stop valve are installed on the main pipeline, the first stop valve is located between the second stop valve and the heating pump station, and the part of the main pipeline located between the first stop valve and the second stop valve is a heating section that supplies heat to the heating equipment.

[0010] In some embodiments, the heating system further includes a branch pipe, one end of which is connected between the heating pump station and the first stop valve, and the other end is connected between the second stop valve and the return water port, and a regulating valve with adjustable opening is installed on the branch pipe.

[0011] In some embodiments, a one-way valve is connected between the main pipeline and the return water port, and the one-way valve allows the working fluid to flow from the heating pump station to the return water port.

[0012] In some embodiments, the heating system also includes a preheating device, and a water inlet is provided on the box body, the water inlet is connected to the starting end of the winding flow channel, the water inlet end of the preheating device is connected to the second water outlet, and the water outlet end of the preheating device is connected to the water inlet.

[0013] A third aspect of the present invention provides a heating method using the above-mentioned heating system, comprising the following steps:

[0014] S1: Keep the first stop valve, the second stop valve and the heat pump station in the open state, so that the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank, the heat pump station, the first stop valve, the second stop valve and the tank;

[0015] S2: Obtain the working fluid temperature T0 at the first water outlet;

[0016] S3: If the working fluid temperature T0 is not less than the set heating temperature T1 within the set interval time period t, the heat pump unit is set to the off state;

[0017] Otherwise, set the heat pump unit to on;

[0018] S4: Repeat step S2.

[0019] In some embodiments, the liquid level in the tank is monitored during the heating process. If the liquid level is in a low liquid level state, working fluid is added to the tank until the low liquid level state is exited.

[0020] In some embodiments, when the heating system has branch pipes and regulating valves, the following steps are further performed before step S1:

[0021] S11: Obtaining the usage status of the heating system at the last moment;

[0022] If the heating system is in use, proceed to step S1;

[0023] Otherwise, proceed to step S12;

[0024] S12: Obtain the liquid level in the tank;

[0025] S13: If the liquid level in the tank is low, proceed to step S14; otherwise, proceed to step S17;

[0026] S14: If the liquid level in the tank is zero, proceed to step S16, otherwise proceed to step S15;

[0027] S15: Add working fluid to the tank until the low liquid level state is exited and then proceed to step S17;

[0028] S16: Keep the first stop valve, the second stop valve, the regulating valve, the heat pump station and the heat pump unit in the closed state, fill the box with working fluid, and proceed to step S17;

[0029] S17: Open the regulating valve and the heat pump station to allow the working fluid to flow along the flow path of the tank, the heat pump station, the regulating valve, and the tank;

[0030] S18: After the working fluid flows steadily, the heat pump unit is turned on;

[0031] S19: Obtaining the working fluid temperature T0 at the first water outlet;

[0032] S20: If the working fluid temperature T0 is not less than the set heating temperature T1 within the set interval time period t, the heat pump unit and the regulating valve are closed and step S1 is performed;

[0033] Otherwise, the heat pump unit is kept in the on state and step S19 is repeated.

[0034] In some embodiments, during the heating process:

[0035] When the heat demand of the heat-consuming equipment decreases, the regulating valve is opened and the opening of the regulating valve is adjusted so that part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank, the heat pump station, the first stop valve, the second stop valve, and the tank to meet the heat demand, and the other part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank, the heat pump station, the regulating valve, and the tank. The opening of the regulating valve is inversely proportional to the heat demand, and when the heat demand is zero, the first stop valve, the second stop valve, and the regulating valve are all closed;

[0036] When the electricity price is at a low electricity price, the heating temperature set by the heating system is switched to T2 and T2 is greater than T1.

[0037] The application of the above technical solution of the present invention to a labyrinth-type hot water storage tank has the following effects:

[0038] The high-temperature working fluid discharged from the first water outlet of the heat storage tank supplies heat to the heat-consuming equipment through heat exchange. After the heat is supplied, the temperature of the working fluid decreases and flows back into the tank through the return water outlet. Part of the low-temperature working fluid flowing back into the tank flows along the serpentine flow channel, and the other part is discharged from the second water outlet and can be heated by heat pumps, solar photovoltaic heating, etc. The heated working fluid flows back to the serpentine flow channel through the water distribution outlet and mixes with the low-temperature working fluid in the serpentine flow channel to increase the temperature of the working fluid flowing in the serpentine flow channel. The distribution path of the water distribution outlet is consistent with the serpentine path of the serpentine flow channel, ensuring that the working fluid in the serpentine flow channel is fully and evenly mixed with the working fluid discharged from the water distribution outlet, and the temperature of the working fluid in the serpentine flow channel gradually increases along the serpentine path from the return water outlet to the first water outlet, ultimately ensuring that the temperature fluctuation range of the working fluid discharged at the first water outlet is small and the heating is stable.

[0039] Other features and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail in the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 1 is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a labyrinth-type water storage tank according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 1 is a schematic top perspective view of a labyrinth-type water storage tank according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the internal structure of a labyrinth-type water storage tank according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of a heating system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Description of Reference Numerals

[0045] 1. Box body; 2. Winding flow channel; 3. Water distribution port; 4. Return water port; 5. First water outlet; 6. Second water outlet; 7. Partition; 8. Heat pump unit; 9. Heating pump station; 10. Main pipeline; 11. First stop valve; 12. Second stop valve; 13. Branch pipeline; 14. Regulating valve; 15. One-way valve; 16. Preheating device; 17. Water inlet; 18. Water supply port; 19. Drainage port; Z, first direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The following is a detailed description of the specific embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are only used to illustrate and explain the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0047] The first aspect of the present invention provides a labyrinth type heat storage tank, Figure 1 , Attachment Figure 2 And attached Figure 3 As shown, the labyrinth-type heat storage tank includes a housing 1, which defines a serpentine flow channel 2. The housing 1 is provided with a water distribution port 3, a water return port 4, a first water outlet 5, and a second water outlet 6. Several water distribution ports 3 are provided, each communicating with the serpentine flow channel 2. These ports 3 are distributed in a serpentine pattern, and the serpentine path of the serpentine flow channel 2 matches the distribution path of the water distribution ports 3. The first water outlet 5 communicates with the end of the serpentine flow channel 2, while the water return port 4 and the second water outlet 6 communicate with the beginning of the serpentine flow channel 2.

[0048] When the labyrinth-type heat storage tank is used for heating, the high-temperature working fluid in the winding channel 2 is discharged from the first water outlet 5 at the end of the winding channel 2 and used to supply heat to the heat-consuming equipment. After the heating, the working fluid with a lowered temperature flows back to the winding channel 2 from the return water outlet 4. Part of the low-temperature working fluid flowing back into the winding channel 2 flows along the winding channel 2, and the other part is discharged from the second water outlet 6. The low-temperature working fluid discharged from the second water outlet 6 is heated outside the tank 1 using external heating equipment such as a heat pump and solar photovoltaic heating. The high-temperature working fluid heated by the external heating equipment flows back to the winding channel 2 through a number of water distribution ports 3 and mixes with the low-temperature working fluid in the winding channel 2. This design is used to increase the temperature of the working fluid flowing in the winding channel 2, and ultimately to ensure that the temperature of the working fluid discharged from the first water outlet 5 of the winding channel 2 meets the heating requirements of the heat-consuming equipment.

[0049] Generally, a temperature sensor (not shown) is provided at the first water outlet 5 for real-time monitoring of the temperature of the high-temperature working fluid discharged from the first water outlet 5, so that the external heating device can adjust the heating power in a timely manner. That is, when the temperature of the working fluid at the first water outlet 5 does not reach the temperature required by the heat-consuming device, the heating power of the external heating device is increased, so that the working fluid discharged from the second water outlet 6 can flow from the water distribution port 3 into the winding flow channel 2 at a higher temperature, and finally the temperature of the working fluid discharged from the first water outlet 5 meets the temperature required by the heat-consuming device. When the temperature of the working fluid at the first water outlet 5 reaches or exceeds the temperature required by the heat-consuming device, the external heating device is stopped, thereby reducing the electricity input of the external heating device and saving costs.

[0050] In addition, since the distribution paths of the several water distribution ports 3 are consistent with the winding path of the meandering channel 2, the purpose of designing the distribution pattern of the water distribution ports 3 in this way is to: on the one hand, ensure that the working fluid in the meandering channel 2 and the working fluid discharged from the water distribution ports 3 are fully and evenly mixed and the heat storage density is improved; on the other hand, the temperature of the working fluid in the meandering channel 2 is evenly distributed and gradually increases from the return water port 4 to the first water outlet 5 along the winding path of the meandering channel 2, ultimately ensuring that the temperature fluctuation range of the working fluid discharged from the first water outlet 5 is small and the heat supply is stable.

[0051] Specifically, the low-temperature working fluid discharged from the second water outlet 6 is heated by an external heating device and then flows back to the winding channel 2 from the water distribution port 3. The temperature of the working fluid flowing into the winding channel 2 from each water distribution port 3 is the same, while the working fluid in the winding channel 2 flows from the return water port 4 to the first water outlet 5. Therefore, the high-temperature working fluid flowing into the water distribution port 3 closer to the return water port 4 is first mixed with the low-temperature working fluid flowing in the winding channel 2, thereby increasing the temperature of the working fluid in the winding channel 2. The mixed working fluid continues to flow along the winding channel 2 and is then mixed with the high-temperature working fluid flowing into the next water distribution port 3 until the working fluid flows to the end of the winding channel 2 and is discharged from the first water outlet 5. Therefore, along the winding path and from the return water port 4 to the first water outlet 5, the temperature of the working fluid flowing in the winding channel 2 gradually increases until the temperature of the working fluid discharged from the first water outlet 5 is basically consistent with the temperature of the working fluid flowing into the winding channel 2 from the water distribution port 3. The temperature of the working fluid after heating by the external heating equipment must be equal to or higher than the temperature required by the heating equipment.

[0052] The present invention specifically provides an embodiment of a labyrinth-type heat storage tank.

[0053] ① The design length of box 1 is 250 meters, width is 240 meters, and height is 1.5 meters. Box 1 is a flat rectangular shape as a whole, and can be used under conditions where the installation space and load-bearing capacity of the factory are limited. The internal space height of box 1 is 1 meter, that is, the effective liquid level inside box 1 is 1 meter. The main body of box 1 adopts polyurethane insulation material, and the inner and outer sides of box 1 adopt stainless steel shell, that is, box 1 has a multi-layer structure. In order to ensure the insulation effect, it is advisable to use polyurethane on-site foaming process and aerogel material to reduce the cold and hot bridge phenomenon. The cold and hot bridge phenomenon refers to the material effect of concentrated heat transfer due to the high thermal conductivity of local materials or discontinuous insulation layer.

[0054] ② Combined with attachment Figure 1 , Attachment Figure 2 As shown, several water distribution ports 3 are opened on the top of the box body 1, so that the working fluid heated by the external heating device flows from the water distribution ports 3 into the winding channel 2 and mixes with the working fluid in the winding channel 2 from top to bottom to ensure uniform mixing. Figure 2As shown, the water distribution ports 3 are distributed in a serpentine shape and the serpentine path of the serpentine flow channel 2 is consistent with the distribution path of the water distribution ports 3. Specifically, there are fifty water distribution ports 3, and after projection in the Z direction, the distribution path of the fifty water distribution ports 3 is consistent with the serpentine path of the serpentine flow channel 2.

[0055] ③ Combined with attachment Figure 1 , Attachment Figure 2 , Attachment Figure 3 As shown, the upper right corner of the winding channel 2 is the starting end, and the lower left corner is the end. The return water port 4 and the second water outlet 6 are opened at the upper right corner of the box body 1, and the first water outlet 5 is opened at the lower left corner of the box body 1. The opening direction of the return water port 4 is parallel to the starting end direction of the winding channel 2, so that the working fluid can flow stably into the winding channel 2 from the return water port 4. Similarly, the opening direction of the first water outlet 5 is parallel to the end direction of the winding channel 2, so that the working fluid can flow out stably from the second water outlet 6. The opening direction of the second water outlet 6 is perpendicular to the starting end direction of the winding channel 2. When no suction force is applied to the winding channel 2 toward the second water outlet 6, most or even all of the working fluid in the winding channel 2 flows along the winding channel 2 and does not flow toward the second water outlet 6.

[0056] ④ Combined with attachment Figure 1 , Attachment Figure 2 , Attachment Figure 3 As shown, a drain port 19 is provided at the bottom of the housing 1, and a water refill port 18 is provided on the side of the housing 1. Both drain ports 19 and water refill port 18 are normally closed. Specifically, there are four drain ports 19 and one water refill port 18. When maintenance is required on the housing 1, the working fluid within the housing 1 must first be drained. At this point, the drain port 19 at the bottom of the housing 1 can be opened to drain the fluid. If the liquid level within the housing 1 is too low during heating, the water refill port 18 can be opened to refill the housing 1 until the level meets the required level.

[0057] It should be noted that the working fluid is discharged from the first water outlet 5 for use in the heating process. The working fluid heats the heat-consuming equipment by heat exchange, and does not consume the amount of working fluid. Therefore, the total amount of working fluid remains unchanged. However, in actual use, due to leakage or other abnormal conditions, the amount of working fluid decreases until the liquid level in the box body 1 is too low (i.e., the liquid level in the box body 1 is in a low liquid level state) and cannot meet the use requirements, and then the water replenishment port 18 is opened to replenish the working fluid. Generally, a liquid level sensor (not shown) is installed inside the box body 1 to monitor the working liquid level inside the box body 1 in real time, so that the working fluid can be replenished in time until the low liquid level state is exited.

[0058] It should also be noted that when the labyrinth-type heat storage tank is put into use for the first time or when the heat storage tank is put into use again after maintenance, the liquid level in the tank body 1 is zero, which is a low liquid level state. At this time, the internal space of the tank body 1 needs to be filled with working fluid, so the water filling port 18 needs to be opened on the side of the tank body 1 and close to the top wall of the internal space of the tank body 1.

[0059] When the labyrinth-type heat storage tank is put into use and provides stable heat, its working fluid is in a circulating flow state. Working fluid flows in the pipe between the first water outlet 5 and the return water port 4, as well as in the pipe between the second water outlet 6 and the water distribution port 3. Therefore, during the heating process, the liquid level inside the tank body 1 is not at the maximum liquid level. In this embodiment, the critical liquid level of the low liquid level state is less than 1 meter of the effective liquid level inside the tank body 1. There is a certain distance between the installation position of the liquid level sensor and the inner top wall of the tank body 1. Generally, this distance is inversely proportional to the pipe volume between the first water outlet 5 and the return water port 4, as well as the pipe volume between the second water outlet 6 and the water distribution port 3.

[0060] In a further preferred embodiment, a plurality of partitions 7 are fixedly provided in the interior space of the box body 1, and the plurality of partitions 7 divide the interior space of the box body 1 to form a winding flow channel 2. The partitions 7 are made of stainless steel and fixed to the inside of the box body 1. The partitions 7 can be fixed to the inner shell of the box body 1 by welding or integrally formed with the inner shell. Figure 2 , Attachment Figure 3 Specifically, there are twelve partitions 7 and they are arranged in a staggered manner. The partitions 7 are fixed to the top and bottom walls inside the box body 1 at the top and bottom, separating the internal space of the box body 1 into a winding channel 2.

[0061] The second aspect of the present invention provides a heating system, as shown in the attached Figure 4 As shown, it includes a heat pump unit 8, a heat supply pump station 9, a main pipeline 10 and a labyrinth-type hot water storage tank according to any of the above-mentioned embodiments. The water inlet of the heat pump unit 8 is connected to the second water outlet 6, and the water outlet of the heat pump unit 8 is connected to all water distribution ports 3. The water inlet of the heat supply pump station 9 is connected to the first water outlet 5, and one end of the main pipeline 10 is connected to the water outlet of the heat supply pump station 9 and the other end is connected to the return water port 4. A first stop valve 11 and a second stop valve 12 are installed on the main pipeline 10, and the first stop valve 11 is located between the second stop valve 12 and the heat supply pump station 9. The portion of the main pipeline 10 located between the first stop valve 11 and the second stop valve 12 is a heating section that supplies heat to heat-consuming equipment.

[0062] The heating pump station 9 uses variable frequency control to maintain a constant water pressure at the pump station's outlet. During the heating process, the pump station 9 draws high-temperature working fluid from the first water outlet 5 of the tank 1 and delivers it to the heating section through the first shut-off valve 11. The high-temperature working fluid in the heating section heats the heat-consuming equipment through heat exchange. After heat exchange, the low-temperature working fluid flows back into the tank 1 through the second shut-off valve 12 and the return port 4, completing the working fluid circulation cycle. To prevent scaling in the pipelines that could affect the heat exchange performance of the energy-consuming equipment, softened water is used as the working fluid, reducing maintenance costs.

[0063] During the heating process, the temperature of the working fluid discharged from the first water outlet 5 is monitored in real time. When the temperature of the working fluid discharged from the first water outlet 5 is lower than the set heating temperature, the heat pump unit 8 is started to avoid the heat pump unit 8 being in use for a long time. After the heat pump unit 8 is started, a portion of the low-temperature working fluid that flows back into the box body 1 can be extracted from the second water outlet 6 by the built-in water pump. The heat pump unit 8 heats the extracted low-temperature working fluid and makes its temperature reach the heating temperature. The heated working fluid flows evenly into the box body 1 from the multiple water distribution ports 3 and mixes with the working fluid in the winding flow channel 2 until the temperature of the working fluid at the first water outlet 5 reaches the set heating temperature again. At this time, the heat pump unit 8 stops.

[0064] The working mechanism of the heat pump unit 8 is also to heat the low-temperature working fluid through heat exchange. Specifically, when the compressor in the heat pump unit 8 is powered on, it draws in a low-temperature medium (either gaseous or liquid), where the temperature of the low-temperature medium is lower than that of the low-temperature working fluid. The compressor then transfers heat from the low-temperature medium back to the low-temperature working fluid, thereby raising the working fluid's temperature. This further lowers the medium's temperature, and the cooling energy of the medium is then exported and used for cooling, dehumidification, equipment cooling, and other cooling needs within the factory.

[0065] In a further preferred embodiment, the heating system also includes a branch pipe 13, one end of the branch pipe 13 is connected between the heating pump station 9 and the first stop valve 11, and the other end is connected between the second stop valve 12 and the return water port 4, and a regulating valve 14 with adjustable opening is installed on the branch pipe 13.

[0066] When the hot water storage tank is first put into operation or returned to service after maintenance, the liquid level in tank 1 is zero. Working fluid is then added to tank 1 through water inlet 18. The first and second stop valves 11 and 12 are then closed, and the regulating valve 14 is opened. The heat pump station 9 is activated, allowing the working fluid to circulate along the flow path between tank 1, heat pump station 9, regulating valve 14, and tank 1. Once the working fluid maintains a stable flow, the heat pump unit 8 is activated to heat the circulating working fluid until the working fluid temperature at the first water outlet 5 reaches the heating temperature. Finally, the heat pump unit 8 and regulating valve 14 are closed, and the first and second stop valves 11 and 12 are opened, allowing the working fluid to circulate along the flow path between tank 1, heat pump station 9, first stop valve 11, second stop valve 12, and tank 1, providing heat to the heat-consuming equipment in the heating section.

[0067] When the hot water storage tank is filled with working fluid, the working fluid's temperature does not reach the heating temperature. If the working fluid is then delivered to the heating section via the heat pump station 9, the substandard working fluid will not only fail to meet the heating needs of the heating equipment, but may also affect the performance of the heating equipment itself. Therefore, the design of the branch pipe 13 prevents the low-temperature working fluid from the newly commissioned hot water storage tank from affecting the production of the heating equipment.

[0068] Before the hot water storage tank needs to be inspected and repaired, the working fluid in the system needs to be drained. After the heat pump station 9 draws the working fluid in the pipeline into the tank body 1, the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12, the regulating valve 14, the heat pump station 9 and the heat pump unit 8 are closed, and the tank body 1 is removed from the system for drainage and inspection.

[0069] In a further preferred embodiment, a one-way valve 15 is connected between the main pipe 10 and the return water port 4. The one-way valve 15 allows the working fluid to flow from the heating pump station 9 to the return water port 4. The provision of the one-way valve 15 can prevent the working fluid in the tank 1 from flowing back into the main pipe 10 from the water outlet, thereby improving the reliability of the heating system.

[0070] In a further preferred embodiment, the heating system also includes a preheating device 16, and a water inlet 17 is further provided on the casing 1. The water inlet 17 is connected to the starting end of the meandering channel 2, the water inlet end of the preheating device 16 is connected to the second water outlet 6, and the water outlet end of the preheating device 16 is connected to the water inlet 17. The preheating device 16 extracts part of the working fluid from the starting end of the meandering channel 2 for preheating, and then feeds the preheated working fluid back into the starting end of the meandering channel 2 through the water inlet 17. Specifically, the water inlet 17 is opened in the same manner as the second water outlet 6, and is opened in a direction perpendicular to the starting end of the meandering channel 2. For the preheating device 16, a solar thermal system is used in this embodiment, and the working fluid can be extracted by a built-in water pump, making full use of solar energy to preheat the working fluid. It should be noted that the heating power of the solar thermal system is limited by natural weather factors, so the solar thermal system only preheats the working fluid. Therefore, the water outlet of the solar thermal system is connected to the water inlet 17 located at the beginning of the winding flow channel 2 so that the preheated working fluid will still be mixed with the working fluid discharged from the water distribution port 3.

[0071] A third aspect of the present invention provides a heating method using the heating system of any one of the above embodiments, the heating method comprising the following steps:

[0072] S1: Keep the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12 and the heat pump station 9 in the open state, so that the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank 1, the heat pump station 9, the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12, and the tank 1;

[0073] S2: Obtain the working fluid temperature T0 at the first water outlet 5;

[0074] S3: If the working fluid temperature T0 is not less than the set heating temperature T1 within the set interval time period t, the heat pump unit 8 is set to the off state;

[0075] Otherwise, the heat pump unit 8 is set to the on state;

[0076] S4: Repeat step S2.

[0077] In a further preferred embodiment, the liquid level in the tank 1 is detected during the heating process. If the liquid level is low, working fluid is added to the tank 1 until the low level state is exited. Although no direct loss of working fluid occurs during the entire heating process, leakage in the system is unavoidable. After long-term use, the liquid level in the tank 1 may drop to a low level. At this time, working fluid can be directly added to the tank 1 through the water replenishment port 18 on the tank 1.

[0078] In a further preferred embodiment, when the heating system has a branch pipe 13 and a regulating valve 14, the following steps are further included before step S1:

[0079] S11: Obtaining the usage status of the heating system at the last moment;

[0080] If the heating system is in use, proceed to step S1;

[0081] Otherwise, proceed to step S12;

[0082] S12: Obtain the liquid level in tank 1;

[0083] S13: If the liquid level in the tank 1 is low, proceed to step S14; otherwise, proceed to step S17;

[0084] S14: If the liquid level in the tank 1 is zero, proceed to step S16, otherwise proceed to step S15;

[0085] S15: Replenish working fluid into the tank 1 until the low fluid level state is exited and then proceed to step S17;

[0086] S16: Keep the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12, the regulating valve 14, the heat pump station 9 and the heat pump unit 8 in the closed state, fill the working fluid in the box 1, and proceed to step S17;

[0087] S17: Open the regulating valve 14 and the heat pump station 9 to allow the working fluid to flow along the flow path of the tank 1, the heat pump station 9, the regulating valve 14, and the tank 1;

[0088] S18: After the working fluid flows steadily, the heat pump unit 8 is turned on;

[0089] S19: Obtaining the working fluid temperature T0 at the first water outlet 5;

[0090] S20: If the working fluid temperature T0 is not less than the set heating temperature T1 within the set interval time period t, the heat pump unit 8 and the regulating valve 14 are closed and step S1 is performed;

[0091] Otherwise, the heat pump unit 8 is kept in the on state and step S19 is repeated.

[0092] The heating method of this embodiment utilizes a heating system having a branch pipe 13 and a regulating valve 14. The heating system can be used in two states: heating state and shutdown state. If the heating system was previously in the heating state, the heating state can be maintained. However, if the heating system was previously in the shutdown state and needs to be put into use at the next moment, that is, if the heating system is being put back into use after being shut down, being put back into use after maintenance, or being put into use for the first time, then the process of steps S12 to S20 of this embodiment must be performed.

[0093] In a further preferred embodiment, during the heating process:

[0094] When the heat demand of the heat-consuming equipment decreases, the regulating valve 14 is opened and the opening of the regulating valve 14 is adjusted so that part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank 1, the heat supply pump station 9, the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12, and the tank 1 to meet the heat demand, and the other part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank 1, the heat supply pump station 9, the regulating valve 14, and the tank 1. The opening of the regulating valve 14 is inversely proportional to the heat demand, and when the heat demand is zero, the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12, and the regulating valve 14 are all closed;

[0095] When the electricity price is at a low electricity price, the heating temperature set by the heating system is switched to T2 and T2 is greater than T1.

[0096] Specifically, when the heating system is operating normally and the heat-consuming equipment has sufficient heat demand, the regulating valve 14 is in a normally closed state, and the high-temperature working fluid supplied by the heat pump station 9 flows entirely through the main pipeline 10 to optimally meet the heat demand of the heat-consuming equipment. When the heat demand of the heat-consuming equipment decreases, the production process may be in a standby state or shut down.

[0097] For example, during the production process of a cigarette factory, some heat-consuming equipment requires 24-hour heat preservation and moisture retention, while other heat-consuming equipment only requires heat during daytime production activities. Therefore, when the heating system is used in the cigarette factory production process, the heat demand at night is lower than the daytime heat demand, and the nighttime heat demand is not zero. At this time, it is necessary to open the regulating valve 14 and adjust the opening of the regulating valve 14 so that part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank 1, the heat pump station 9, the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12, and the tank 1 to meet the heat demand of the heat-consuming equipment, while the remaining part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank 1, the heat pump station 9, the regulating valve 14, and the tank 1. At this time, the temperature of the working fluid returning to the tank 1 through the return port 4 is higher than the temperature of the working fluid returning during the day, reducing the heating demand on the heat pump unit 8, thereby reducing the energy input to the heat pump unit 8 and saving heating costs.

[0098] Specifically, during daytime production at the cigarette factory, the heating system is set to a temperature of 45°C, meaning the working fluid temperature at first water outlet 5 of tank 1 is 45°C. The working fluid temperature after heating is 40°C, meaning the working fluid temperature at return water outlet 4 of tank 1 is 40°C. Heat pump unit 8 must heat the working fluid from 40°C to 45°C to ensure the working fluid temperature at first water outlet 5 of tank 1 remains at 45°C.

[0099] During the heat preservation and moisture retention production needs of the cigarette factory at night, the heating system sets the heating temperature to 45°C. However, due to the reduced heat demand, part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the box 1, the heat pump station 9, the regulating valve 14, and the box 1. The 40°C working fluid used for heating and the 45°C working fluid flowing through the regulating valve 14 mix at the junction of the branch pipe 13 and the main pipe 10, forming a working fluid with a temperature between 40°C and 45°C (such as 43°C). The working fluid that eventually flows back to the return water port 4 has a temperature between 40°C and 45°C. Obviously, the heat pump unit 8 consumes less energy to heat the 43°C working fluid to 45°C than to heat the 40°C working fluid to 45°C, thereby saving heating costs.

[0100] When the heat demand drops to zero, the first stop valve 11, the second stop valve 12 and the regulating valve 14 are closed, so that the heating system is in a standby state.

[0101] During off-peak electricity periods, the heating system's set heating temperature is switched to T2, with T2 being greater than T1. For example, during normal operation, the heating system's set heating temperature T1 is 45°C, meaning the heat pump unit 8 heats the working fluid in tank 1 to 45°C. During off-peak electricity periods, the heating system's set heating temperature T2 is 50°C, meaning the heat pump unit 8 heats the working fluid in tank 1 to 50°C. This fully utilizes the low-priced electricity during off-peak periods, saving heating costs.

[0102] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are described in detail above. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific details in the above embodiments. Within the technical concept of the present invention, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solution of the present invention, and these simple modifications all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0103] It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any appropriate manner without contradiction. To avoid unnecessary repetition, the present invention will not further describe various possible combinations.

[0104] In addition, the various embodiments of the present invention may be arbitrarily combined, and as long as they do not violate the concept of the present invention, they should also be regarded as the contents disclosed by the present invention.

Claims

1. A labyrinth-type water storage tank, characterized in that: The invention comprises a box body (1), wherein the box body (1) has a winding flow channel (2), and the box body (1) is provided with a plurality of water distribution ports (3) connected to the winding flow channel (2), wherein, when projected along a first direction, the plurality of water distribution ports (3) are distributed in a serpentine shape, and the winding path of the winding flow channel (2) is consistent with the distribution path of the water distribution ports (3); The box body (1) is also provided with a water return port (4), a first water outlet (5) and a second water outlet (6); the first water outlet (5) is connected to the end of the winding flow channel (2); and the water return port (4) and the second water outlet (6) are connected to the beginning of the winding flow channel (2).

2. The labyrinth type heat storage tank according to claim 1, characterized in that: A plurality of partitions (7) are fixedly provided in the internal space of the box body (1), and the plurality of partitions (7) divide the internal space of the box body (1) to form the winding flow channel (2).

3. A heating system, characterized in that: It comprises a heat pump unit (8), a heat supply pump station (9), a main pipeline (10), and a labyrinth-type heat storage tank according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the water inlet of the heat pump unit (8) is connected to the second water outlet (6), and the water outlet of the heat pump unit (8) is connected to all the water distribution outlets (3); The water inlet end of the heat supply pump station (9) is connected to the first water outlet (5), one end of the main pipeline (10) is connected to the water outlet end of the heat supply pump station (9) and the other end is connected to the return water port (4), a first stop valve (11) and a second stop valve (12) are installed on the main pipeline (10), the first stop valve (11) is located between the second stop valve (12) and the heat supply pump station (9), and the part of the main pipeline (10) located between the first stop valve (11) and the second stop valve (12) is a heating section for supplying heat to heat-consuming equipment.

4. The heating system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The heating system further comprises a branch pipe (13), one end of which is connected between the heating pump station (9) and the first stop valve (11), and the other end of which is connected between the second stop valve (12) and the return water port (4). A regulating valve (14) with an adjustable opening is installed on the branch pipe (13).

5. The heating system according to claim 3, characterized in that A one-way valve (15) is connected between the main pipeline (10) and the water return port (4), and the one-way valve (15) allows the working fluid to flow from the heat supply pump station (9) to the water return port (4).

6. The heating system according to claim 3, characterized in that: The heating system further comprises a preheating device (16); a water inlet (17) is further provided on the box body (1); the water inlet (17) is communicated with the starting end of the serpentine flow channel (2); the water inlet end of the preheating device (16) is communicated with the second water outlet (6); and the water outlet end of the preheating device (16) is communicated with the water inlet (17).

7. A heating method using the heating system according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that: The steps include: S1: Keeping the first stop valve (11), the second stop valve (12) and the heat supply pump station (9) in an open state, allowing the working fluid to flow along the flow path of the tank (1), the heat supply pump station (9), the first stop valve (11), the second stop valve (12), and the tank (1); S2: Obtaining the working fluid temperature T0 at the first water outlet (5); S3: If the working fluid temperature T0 is not less than the set heating temperature T1 within the set interval time period t, the heat pump unit (8) is set to the off state; Otherwise, the heat pump unit (8) is set to an on state; S4: Repeat step S2.

8. The heating method according to claim 7, characterized in that: During the heating process, the liquid level in the box (1) is monitored, and if the liquid level is in a low liquid level state, working fluid is added to the box (1) until the low liquid level state is exited.

9. The heating method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: When the heating system has a branch pipe (13) and a regulating valve (14), the following steps are further included before step S1: S11: Obtaining the usage status of the heating system at the last moment; If the heating system is in use, proceed to step S1; Otherwise, proceed to step S12; S12: Obtain the liquid level in the tank (1); S13: If the liquid level in the tank (1) is low, proceed to step S14; otherwise, proceed to step S17; S14: If the liquid level in the tank (1) is zero, proceed to step S16, otherwise proceed to step S15; S15: Add working fluid to the tank (1) until the low liquid level state is exited and then proceed to step S17; S16: Keep the first stop valve (11), the second stop valve (12), the regulating valve (14), the heat pump station (9) and the heat pump unit (8) in a closed state, fill the box (1) with working fluid, and proceed to step S17; S17: opening the regulating valve (14) and the heat supply pump station (9), so that the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank (1), the heat supply pump station (9), the regulating valve (14), and the tank (1); S18: After the working fluid flows steadily, the heat pump unit (8) is turned on; S19: Obtaining the working fluid temperature T0 at the first water outlet (5); S20: If the working fluid temperature T0 is not less than the set heating temperature T1 within the set interval time period t, the heat pump unit (8) and the regulating valve (14) are closed and step S1 is performed; Otherwise, keep the heat pump unit (8) in the on state and repeat step S19.

10. The heating method according to claim 9, characterized in that: During the heating process: When the heat demand of the heat-using equipment decreases, the regulating valve (14) is opened and the opening of the regulating valve (14) is adjusted so that part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank (1), the heat supply pump station (9), the first stop valve (11), the second stop valve (12), and the tank (1) to meet the heat demand, and another part of the working fluid flows along the flow path of the tank (1), the heat supply pump station (9), the regulating valve (14), and the tank (1). The opening of the regulating valve (14) is inversely proportional to the heat demand, and when the heat demand is zero, the first stop valve (11), the second stop valve (12), and the regulating valve (14) are all closed; When the electricity price is at a low electricity price, the heating temperature set by the heating system is switched to T2 and T2 is greater than T1.

Images