Vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage coupled efficient heating system

Abstract

The invention discloses a vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage coupled efficient heating system, and relates to the technical field of energy-saving heating, the vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage coupled efficient heating system comprises a vacuum heat pipe array, a thermal switch cavity, a phase change energy storage unit and a control system, the condensation end of the vacuum heat pipe array is integrated on an upper cover plate of the thermal switch cavity, and the phase change energy storage unit is tightly attached to the lower surface of the cavity; the control system is connected with the thermal switch chamber; wherein the thermal switch chamber comprises a copper or aluminum alloy flat sealing cavity, gallium indium alloy particles or bismuth indium tin alloy particles and an electromagnetic coil, and can realize three modes of superconducting, modulation and turn-off by controlling the state of the alloy particles through a magnetic field under the instruction of a control system; the control system monitors the temperature of the heat pipe, the energy storage unit and the indoor temperature through a temperature sensor and generates an instruction, the system can further control a heating tail end circulating pump to release energy storage heat, the heat flow regulation and control and energy storage cooperation problem is efficiently solved, and the heating energy efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of energy-saving heating technology, and more specifically, to a high-efficiency heating system coupled with a vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage. Background Technology

[0002] In low-carbon energy heating systems, distributed heat sources such as solar energy and industrial waste heat are subject to the influence of diurnal rhythms and production conditions, resulting in the core contradiction of unstable heat output and mismatch between supply and demand in time and space. Traditional heating systems struggle to achieve efficient heat capture, dynamic regulation, and long-term storage. Although vacuum heat pipe arrays possess superconducting thermal properties and can quickly conduct heat from dispersed heat sources, single heat pipe systems lack flexible heat flow control mechanisms. When there is an excess of external heat sources, the energy storage unit is prone to overheating in a short period of time, causing local overheating and degradation of the phase change material (PCM) and shortening its service life. When the heat source is interrupted, the lack of thermal barrier design will cause the heat from the energy storage unit to be lost in the reverse direction through the heat pipe, with a heat loss rate of 15%-25%.

[0003] While phase change energy storage units can achieve large-capacity heat storage through latent heat of phase change, the thermal coupling method between the energy storage unit and the heat source in traditional systems is fixed, and the thermal resistance of the heat conduction path is not adjustable. This results in the heat power during the charging phase not matching the output intensity of the heat source, and the heat release rate during the heat dissipation phase being difficult to adapt to the dynamic indoor heat demand. Existing heat switching technologies, such as paraffin expansion and gas adsorption, suffer from problems such as response lag (≥30s), narrow thermal conductivity adjustment range (only 1-10W / (m・K)), and reliance on mechanical structures that are prone to wear and tear. They cannot meet the multi-scenario requirements of heating systems for rapid switching of heat flow paths, precise power control, and long-term heat preservation. In addition, the temperature control logic of most heating systems relies on only a single temperature parameter, such as indoor temperature, without integrating multi-dimensional temperature signals from the heat source, energy storage unit, and indoor environment. This can easily lead to over-supply or under-supply, resulting in energy waste or poor heating performance.

[0004] In summary, existing heating systems suffer from problems such as delayed heat flow regulation, unadjustable thermal resistance, large heat loss, and lack of coordinated temperature control across multiple temperature zones. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In order to overcome the problems of lagging heat flow regulation, unadjustable thermal resistance, large heat loss, and lack of multi-temperature zone coordinated temperature control in existing heating systems, this invention discloses a high-efficiency heating system coupled with vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage, which can effectively solve the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the technical solution of the present invention is as follows: A high-efficiency heating system coupled with a vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage includes: a vacuum heat pipe array, a thermal switch chamber, a phase change energy storage unit, and a control system; The condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array is integrated into the upper cover plate of the thermal switch chamber, the phase change energy storage unit is attached to the lower surface of the thermal switch chamber, and the control system is connected to the thermal switch chamber. The thermal switch chamber is used to change its own thermal conductivity according to the instructions of the control system, so as to dynamically adjust the heat flow path and power between the vacuum heat pipe array and the phase change energy storage unit. The control system is used to monitor system temperature parameters and send control commands to the thermal switching chamber based on the temperature parameters.

[0007] Preferably, the thermal switching chamber includes a sealed metal cavity, low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles, and an electromagnetic coil; The low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles are filled inside the sealed metal cavity, and the electromagnetic coil is wound around the outside of the sealed metal cavity and connected to the control system. The electromagnetic coil is used to generate a magnetic field when energized, so as to cause the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to change state, thereby changing the thermal conductivity of the thermal switching chamber.

[0008] Preferably, the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles are gallium-indium alloy particles or bismuth-indium-tin alloy particles.

[0009] Preferably, the control system includes a temperature sensor and a microcontroller; The temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the vacuum heat pipe array, the temperature of the phase change energy storage unit and the room temperature, and sends the monitored temperature data to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is used to generate control commands based on the temperature data and send the control commands to the thermal switching chamber.

[0010] Preferably, the thermal switch chamber can polarize and aggregate the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles into a solid thermally conductive chain when the electromagnetic coil is energized to generate a strong magnetic field, thus placing them in a superconducting mode with ultra-high thermal conductivity; wherein, the superconducting mode is used to achieve maximum power charging of the vacuum heat pipe array to the phase change energy storage unit.

[0011] Preferably, the thermal switching chamber enables the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to rapidly switch between liquid and solid states when an alternating or intermittent magnetic field is generated by a pulse-width modulated current applied to the electromagnetic coil, thus placing them in a modulation mode with an adjustable equivalent thermal conductivity; wherein, the modulation mode is used to achieve precise control of the heat transfer power from the vacuum heat pipe array to the phase change energy storage unit.

[0012] Preferably, the thermal switch chamber can restore the low-melting-point magnetic alloy microparticles to independent liquid spheres and be in a high thermal resistance shutdown mode when the electromagnetic coil is de-energized and there is no magnetic field; wherein, the shutdown mode is used to cut off the thermal path during the period when the phase change energy storage unit has finished charging or releasing heat, to prevent heat from being lost in the opposite direction.

[0013] Preferably, it further includes a heating terminal circulation pump, which is connected to the control system; the heating terminal circulation pump is used to start under the control of the control system so that the heat stored in the phase change energy storage unit is released into the room to realize indoor heating in heat release mode.

[0014] Preferably, the vacuum heat pipe array is used to absorb heat from an external heat source and transfer the heat to its condenser end; the phase change energy storage unit is used to store or release heat through a phase change process.

[0015] Preferably, the sealed metal cavity is flat and made of copper or aluminum alloy to ensure good thermal conductivity.

[0016] Compared with existing technologies, the beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: Regarding the problem of lag in heat flow regulation, this heating system employs a linkage design between the thermal switching chamber and the control system. The thermal switching chamber uses an electromagnetic coil to generate a magnetic field to control the state of low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles. Compared to traditional mechanical or gas-type thermal switches, the magnetic field response speed is improved to the millisecond level. When the control system detects a sudden increase in the temperature of the vacuum heat pipe array through a temperature sensor, such as a sudden increase in the intensity of an external heat source, the microcontroller can immediately send a strong current command to the electromagnetic coil, causing the alloy particles to rapidly polarize and polymerize into a solid heat-conducting chain, switching to superconducting mode to achieve maximum power heating, or sending a pulse width modulation current command to allow the alloy particles to rapidly transition between liquid and solid states. Rapid switching enables precise control of heat transfer power. Because the magnetic field-driven state switching eliminates mechanical movement delays, it completely solves the problem of lag in heat flow control, ensuring real-time matching of heat flow response with changes in heat source and energy storage requirements. Regarding the issue of unadjustable thermal resistance, the thermal switch chamber features three modes: superconducting, modulated, and off. Differences in the state of alloy particles in different modes allow for multi-level adjustable thermal conductivity. In superconducting mode, thermal conductivity increases; in off mode, it decreases to the level of traditional insulation materials; and in modulated mode, continuous adjustment of thermal conductivity can be achieved by adjusting the pulse current parameters. Compared to traditional heat transfer structures with fixed thermal resistance, the system can dynamically change the thermal resistance according to actual needs. For example, when the phase change energy storage unit is nearing full charge, the control system... The electromagnetic coil current can be gradually reduced, causing the chamber's thermal conductivity to decrease accordingly, preventing overheating of the energy storage unit. Since the thermal resistance can be adjusted as needed, precise matching of heat flow and power can be achieved. Regarding the issue of high heat loss, when the phase change energy storage unit is fully charged or enters the heat release mode, the control system de-energizes the electromagnetic coil, causing the alloy particles to revert to independent liquid spheres. The thermal switch chamber is in a high thermal resistance off-mode, and simultaneously, the vacuum heat pipe array stops efficient heat transfer due to the lack of heat input, forming a double thermal barrier. Compared to traditional systems without thermal barrier designs, the reverse heat loss rate is reduced because the thermal path between the heat pipe and the energy storage unit is cut off, reducing heat loss during the energy storage and heat release phases. Regarding the lack of multi-temperature zone coordinated temperature control, the control system… The system simultaneously monitors three types of temperature parameters: the vacuum heat pipe array (heat source end), the phase change energy storage unit (energy storage end), and the indoor environment (heat consumption end) through temperature sensors. The microcontroller makes comprehensive judgments based on multi-dimensional temperature data. For example, when the indoor temperature is lower than the set value and the energy storage unit temperature is sufficient, it not only controls the thermal switch chamber to remain in the off mode to prevent heat loss in the reverse direction, but also simultaneously starts the circulating pump at the heating terminal to release the stored heat. When the heat pipe temperature is low and the energy storage unit temperature is insufficient, it immediately switches the thermal switch chamber to superconducting mode to prioritize heat charging. Because it realizes the coordinated monitoring and linkage control of the temperatures of the heat source, energy storage, and heat consumption ends, it avoids over-supply or under-supply caused by the adjustment of a single temperature parameter, ensuring heating stability and energy efficiency. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are merely exemplary. For those skilled in the art, other embodiments can be derived from the provided drawings without creative effort.

[0018] Figure 1 This is a system structure diagram of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this patent. To better illustrate this embodiment, some parts in the accompanying drawings may be omitted, enlarged, or reduced, and do not represent the actual product dimensions; It will be understood by those skilled in the art that certain well-known structures and their descriptions may be omitted in the accompanying drawings.

[0020] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0021] Example

[0022] Three typical households in a six-story residential building in an old community in a northern town were selected. The indoor heating temperature in winter is designed to be 18±2℃, and the heating cycle is from November 15th to March 15th of the following year. The extreme minimum outdoor temperature in winter can reach -25℃, and the average daily solar radiation duration is about 6-8 hours.

[0023] Considering the limited roof space in older residential areas and the need to match the building's appearance, a flat-plate vacuum heat pipe array was chosen. The array is rectangular and thin, facilitating installation on the south-facing areas of residential rooftops. It consists of dozens of independent vacuum heat pipes. The evaporator end of each heat pipe is coated with a high-absorption selective heat-absorbing coating, efficiently capturing solar radiation heat. Even in winter, when the sunlight angle is low and the radiation intensity is weak, it can still stably absorb heat energy. The condenser end is designed as an integrated flat metal plate with a polished surface to ensure a tight fit with the top cover of the subsequent thermal switching chamber, reducing contact thermal resistance. A lightweight aluminum alloy frame is added to the outside of the array, providing both protection and fixation. An adjustable bracket at the bottom of the frame allows for fine-tuning of the array's installation angle according to the roof's tilt angle, maximizing adaptation to the direction of sunlight in winter and improving heat capture efficiency.

[0024] The thermal switch chamber, designed for flexible switching of thermal conductivity and stable operation in low-temperature environments, features a flat, sealed metal cavity. The cavity is made of high-thermal-conductivity pure copper, which not only provides excellent thermal conductivity but also maintains structural stability at low temperatures, preventing deformation due to drastic temperature changes. The cavity is filled with low-melting-point magnetic alloy microparticles. Considering both the low-temperature winter environment and phase change response speed, gallium-indium alloy microparticles were chosen. This type of alloy is liquid at room temperature and maintains good fluidity at low temperatures, while also possessing strong magnetic response characteristics, allowing for rapid state changes under magnetic field influence. An electromagnetic coil is uniformly wound around the outside of the cavity. The coil uses low-temperature resistant enameled copper wire, with strict control over coil spacing and the number of turns during winding to ensure a uniform and adjustable magnetic field is generated after energization. A thin layer of insulation material is wrapped around the coil to reduce heat loss and prevent external low temperatures from affecting its performance.

[0025] To meet residents' continuous heating needs for 8-10 hours at night, the phase change energy storage unit adopts a cylindrical vertical structure, making it easy to install in confined spaces such as balconies or storage rooms. The unit's outer shell is made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel, while the interior is filled with a composite phase change material. This material is paraffin-based and incorporates various modified components. The optimized phase change material's phase change temperature range is highly compatible with indoor heating requirements, approximately 20-22℃. Within this temperature range, it can release a large amount of latent heat of phase change with minimal volume change during the phase change process, avoiding damage to the unit's outer shell. Under high pressure, the energy storage unit is equipped with multiple sets of metal heat exchange fins. The fins are tightly bonded to the outer shell and the internal phase change material, which greatly increases the heat exchange area and improves the efficiency of heat storage and release. The outer side of the energy storage unit is wrapped with a thick insulation layer. The insulation layer is made of high-density polyurethane material, which effectively reduces heat loss during the energy storage process and ensures that heat can be continuously and stably provided during nighttime heat release. The upper surface of the energy storage unit and the lower surface of the thermal switch chamber are tightly bonded by a thermally conductive silicone pad. The silicone pad not only fills the tiny gaps on the contact surface, but also further reduces the contact thermal resistance and improves the heat transfer efficiency.

[0026] To achieve multi-dimensional temperature monitoring and precise control, the control system is based on a low-power microcontroller and equipped with multiple sets of high-precision temperature sensors. These sensors are installed at the condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array, inside the phase change energy storage unit, and in the center of the living room. The sensor at the condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array monitors the temperature of the heat source to determine heat capture status; the sensor inside the phase change energy storage unit monitors the temperature of the energy storage unit to understand the heat storage and release status; and the sensor installed indoors monitors the indoor ambient temperature in real time, serving as the core basis for heating regulation. The sensors and the microcontroller are connected via a low-power communication line to ensure that temperature data is transmitted to the microcontroller in real time and stably. The microcontroller has preset control logic that can automatically determine the current heating condition based on the received temperature data and generate corresponding control commands. The microcontroller also has data storage capabilities, recording daily temperature change curves and system operating status for easy analysis and maintenance. Furthermore, the control system is equipped with a simple human-machine interface, installed in an easily accessible location indoors. Residents can view the current indoor temperature, energy storage unit status, and other information through the interface, and can also fine-tune the target indoor heating temperature according to their needs, enhancing the user experience.

[0027] The heating terminal system consists of a circulating pump and auxiliary components. The heating terminal combines indoor underfloor heating coils and radiators, making it suitable for the renovation needs of older residential areas. The underfloor heating coils are laid on the floors of the living room and bedrooms, while the radiators are installed in smaller spaces such as bathrooms. The circulating pump is a silent centrifugal pump, which operates with low noise to avoid affecting residents' daily lives and has good low-temperature start-up performance, allowing for rapid startup in low-temperature winter environments. The circulating pump, phase change energy storage unit, and indoor heating terminal are connected by high-temperature resistant plastic pipes, with the outside of the pipes wrapped in insulation sleeves to reduce heat loss during transmission. The system is also equipped with a small electric auxiliary heater, installed on the pipe between the phase change energy storage unit and the circulating pump. This heater only activates during consecutive cloudy days or extreme low temperatures that lead to insufficient energy storage, serving as an emergency heat source to ensure stable indoor heating temperatures.

[0028] Please see Figure 1 A high-efficiency heating system coupled with vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage includes: vacuum heat pipe array, thermal switch chamber, phase change energy storage unit and control system; The condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array is integrated into the upper cover plate of the thermal switch chamber, the phase change energy storage unit is attached to the lower surface of the thermal switch chamber, and the control system is connected to the thermal switch chamber. The thermal switch chamber is used to change its own thermal conductivity according to the instructions of the control system, so as to dynamically adjust the heat flow path and power between the vacuum heat pipe array and the phase change energy storage unit. The control system is used to monitor system temperature parameters and send control commands to the thermal switching chamber based on the temperature parameters.

[0029] The thermal switching chamber includes a sealed metal cavity, low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles, and an electromagnetic coil. The low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles are filled inside the sealed metal cavity, and the electromagnetic coil is wound around the outside of the sealed metal cavity and connected to the control system. The electromagnetic coil is used to generate a magnetic field when energized, so as to cause the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to change state, thereby changing the thermal conductivity of the thermal switching chamber.

[0030] The low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles are gallium-indium alloy particles or bismuth-indium-tin alloy particles.

[0031] The control system includes a temperature sensor and a microcontroller; The temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the vacuum heat pipe array, the temperature of the phase change energy storage unit and the room temperature, and sends the monitored temperature data to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is used to generate control commands based on the temperature data and send the control commands to the thermal switching chamber.

[0032] The thermal switch chamber can polarize and aggregate the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles into a solid thermally conductive chain when the electromagnetic coil is energized to generate a strong magnetic field, thus placing them in a superconducting mode with ultra-high thermal conductivity; wherein, the superconducting mode is used to realize the maximum power charging of the vacuum heat pipe array to the phase change energy storage unit.

[0033] The thermal switching chamber enables the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to rapidly switch between liquid and solid states when an alternating or intermittent magnetic field is generated by a pulse-width modulated current applied to the electromagnetic coil, thus placing them in a modulation mode with an adjustable equivalent thermal conductivity. The modulation mode is used to achieve precise control of the heat transfer power from the vacuum heat pipe array to the phase change energy storage unit.

[0034] The thermal switch chamber can restore the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to independent liquid spheres when the electromagnetic coil is de-energized and there is no magnetic field, and put them in a high thermal resistance shutdown mode; wherein, the shutdown mode is used to cut off the thermal path during the period when the phase change energy storage unit has finished charging or releasing heat, to prevent heat from being lost in the opposite direction.

[0035] It also includes a heating terminal circulation pump, which is connected to the control system; the heating terminal circulation pump is used to start under the control of the control system so that the heat stored in the phase change energy storage unit is released into the room to realize indoor heating in heat release mode.

[0036] The vacuum heat pipe array is used to absorb heat from an external heat source and transfer the heat to its condensation end; the phase change energy storage unit is used to store or release heat through a phase change process.

[0037] The sealed metal cavity is flat and made of copper or aluminum alloy to ensure good thermal conductivity.

[0038] In practice, the south-facing area of ​​the residential roof is first cleaned and leveled to ensure that the installation surface is free of debris and obvious protrusions. Based on the actual size of the roof and the angle of sunlight, the installation position and angle of the vacuum heat pipe array are determined. The adjustable bracket at the bottom of the array is fixed to the roof concrete structure with expansion bolts. After the bracket is fixed, the flat vacuum heat pipe array is installed on the bracket. The height and angle of the bracket are adjusted so that the array surface can receive the maximum amount of winter sunlight. After the adjustment is completed, the bracket fixing bolts are tightened to ensure that the array is installed firmly and without shaking.

[0039] Align the top cover of the thermal switch chamber with the flat metal plate of the condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array. Apply a thin layer of high-temperature thermal grease evenly to the contact surface. The thermal grease can fill the tiny gaps in the contact surface, further reducing the contact thermal resistance. Then, secure the two tightly with stainless steel bolts. Apply pressure evenly during bolt tightening to ensure that the contact surfaces fit tightly without any signs of loosening. Move the phase change energy storage unit to the preset installation position and adjust the height of the energy storage unit so that the upper surface of the energy storage unit is aligned with the lower surface of the thermal switch chamber. Lay a layer of thermally conductive silicone pad on the contact surface. After the silicone pad is laid, secure the thermal switch chamber and the phase change energy storage unit tightly with metal clamps. The clamp spacing is uniform to ensure that the entire contact surface is subjected to uniform force, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency.

[0040] Install the microcontroller of the control system near the indoor distribution box, ensuring good ventilation and avoiding direct sunlight. Install temperature sensors in their preset positions, ensuring close contact with the monitored object during installation. For example, sensors installed at the condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array should be fixed with high-temperature resistant tape, and sensors installed inside the phase change energy storage unit should be inserted into the preset temperature measurement hole. Sensors installed indoors should be kept away from heat sources and vents to ensure accurate monitoring data. Install the circulation pump on the pipeline between the phase change energy storage unit and the heating terminal. Keep the pump body horizontal during installation to avoid increased operating noise or performance degradation due to tilting. Use sealing rings to seal the pipeline connections to ensure no water leakage. After connection, perform a pressure test on the pipeline to ensure good sealing performance of the pipeline system.

[0041] After completing the mechanical installation of each component, the wiring is connected. The power lines of the electromagnetic coil, circulating pump, and electric auxiliary heater of the thermal switch chamber are connected to the relay output terminal of the control system, and the signal line of the temperature sensor is connected to the signal input terminal of the microcontroller. During the wiring connection, the positive and negative poles are strictly distinguished to ensure correct wiring. All wiring nodes are wrapped with insulating tape to avoid the risk of short circuit. After the wiring is completed, a pre-power-on inspection is performed on the system to check whether each component is installed securely, whether the wiring connection is correct, and whether the insulation layer is intact. After ensuring that there are no safety hazards, the system is ready for commissioning.

[0042] The thermal switch mode switching test was conducted by activating the control system and sending different commands to the electromagnetic coil in the thermal switch chamber via the microcontroller to test three operating modes of the thermal switch. First, the superconducting mode was tested, with a constant high current flowing through the electromagnetic coil. The heat transfer effect in the thermal switch chamber was observed. Temperature sensors monitored the temperature changes at the condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array and the phase change energy storage unit. It was found that the temperature difference between the two rapidly decreased within a short time, indicating that the gallium indium alloy particles aggregated into solid thermally conductive chains under the influence of a strong magnetic field, significantly improving thermal conductivity and heat transfer efficiency. Next, the modulation mode was tested, with a pulse width modulation current flowing through the electromagnetic coil. By adjusting the duty cycle of the current pulse, the change in the temperature rise rate of the phase change energy storage unit was observed. It was found that the temperature rise rate changed smoothly with the adjustment of the duty cycle, indicating that the equivalent thermal conductivity of the thermal switch chamber can be flexibly adjusted, achieving precise control of heat transfer power. Finally, the shutdown mode was tested, with the power supply to the electromagnetic coil cut off. Monitoring the temperature change of the phase change energy storage unit revealed a significantly slower temperature drop rate, indicating that the gallium indium alloy particles reverted to independent liquid spheres, reducing the thermal conductivity of the thermal switch chamber, effectively cutting off the thermal path, and reducing heat loss.

[0043] Temperature control logic and circulation pump testing simulated different heating conditions to verify the accuracy of the control system's temperature control logic and the operation of the circulation pump. When the indoor temperature was lower than the preset target temperature and the phase change energy storage unit was sufficiently heated, the control system automatically started the circulation pump, allowing hot water to circulate in the pipes and gradually raising the indoor temperature until the target temperature was reached. When the indoor temperature remained below the target temperature and the phase change energy storage unit temperature decreased, the control system promptly adjusted the operating mode of the thermal switch chamber. If it was in the heating phase, it increased the heat transfer power; if it was in the heat release phase, it ensured unobstructed heat flow. When simulating a scenario of insufficient energy storage during continuous cloudy days, the control system automatically activated the electric auxiliary heater to supplement the heat gap and ensure stable indoor temperature. During the tests, the circulation pump started and stopped quickly with low operating noise, meeting indoor usage requirements; the electric auxiliary heater started accurately without excessive energy consumption.

[0044] System stability testing involved continuous 72-hour operation, monitoring the operating status and temperature change curves of each component. Over the 72 hours, the system operated stably under various conditions, including daytime heat charging, nighttime heat release, and cloudy / low-light conditions. The thermal switching mode transitioned smoothly without any interruptions or malfunctions. The phase change energy storage unit effectively stored heat during the day and continuously released heat at night, maintaining the indoor temperature consistently within the preset target temperature range with minimal temperature fluctuations. All components operated at normal temperatures, without overheating or abnormal losses, verifying the system's excellent long-term operational stability.

[0045] Winter Sunny Day Operation Procedure: Daytime Heating Phase (8:00-17:00) Around 8:00 AM, as solar irradiance gradually increases, the vacuum heat pipe array begins to capture solar heat, and the condenser end temperature gradually rises. The control system monitors the temperature sensor and determines that the condenser end temperature of the vacuum heat pipe array has reached the preset threshold, and the phase change energy storage unit temperature is lower than the phase change temperature. It then enters the heating phase and sends a strong current command to the electromagnetic coil of the thermal switch chamber. The thermal switch chamber switches to superconducting mode. At this time, gallium indium alloy particles are polarized and aggregate into solid heat-conducting chains under the influence of a strong magnetic field, increasing the thermal conductivity of the thermal switch chamber. The heat captured by the vacuum heat pipe array is rapidly transferred to the phase change energy storage unit. In the energy storage unit, the phase change material inside gradually absorbs heat, and the temperature rises slowly. As the intensity of solar irradiance changes, the control system monitors the temperature of the condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array in real time. When the temperature is too high or the temperature of the phase change energy storage unit is close to the phase change temperature, the control system adjusts the electromagnetic coil current and switches to modulation mode. By adjusting the duty cycle of the pulse width modulation current, the equivalent thermal conductivity of the thermal switch chamber is changed, and the heat transfer power is precisely controlled to avoid local overheating or overcharging of the phase change energy storage unit due to excessive heat flow. This ensures that the phase change material absorbs heat steadily and gradually completes the charging process.

[0046] Nighttime heat release phase (17:00-8:00 the next day) Around 5 PM, as solar irradiance gradually weakens, the heat captured by the vacuum heat pipe array decreases significantly, and the condenser temperature gradually drops. The control system detects that the condenser temperature is below the preset threshold and that the phase change energy storage unit has completed its charging. Determining that the system has entered the heat release phase, it immediately cuts off the power to the electromagnetic coil of the thermal switch chamber, switching the chamber to shutdown mode. At this point, the gallium indium alloy particles revert to independent liquid spheres, reducing the thermal conductivity of the thermal switch chamber and effectively cutting off the thermal path between the vacuum heat pipe array and the phase change energy storage unit. This prevents the heat stored in the energy storage unit from being lost back through the heat pipes. As the indoor temperature gradually decreases throughout the night, when it falls below the preset target temperature, the control system activates the heating terminal circulation pump. The phase change material within the phase change energy storage unit begins to release its latent heat, which is then transported through pipes to the indoor underfloor heating coils and radiators, releasing heat into the room and maintaining a stable indoor temperature. During nighttime operation, the control system continuously monitors the indoor temperature and the phase change energy storage unit temperature, fine-tuning the circulation pump's operating frequency based on temperature changes to ensure the indoor temperature remains within a comfortable range until sunrise the following morning, at which point the system re-enters the charging phase.

[0047] In cloudy or low-light conditions, when solar irradiance is significantly reduced due to overcast or smoggy weather, the heat captured by the vacuum heat pipe array decreases, and the temperature at the condenser end rises slowly. When the control system detects that the temperature at the condenser end is below the superconducting mode activation threshold, it automatically adjusts the thermal switch chamber to modulation mode. By optimizing the pulse width modulation current parameters, it maximizes the use of limited solar heat to charge the phase change energy storage unit while ensuring heat transfer efficiency. If the charging is insufficient during the day, causing the phase change energy storage unit temperature to drop rapidly at night and the indoor temperature to risk falling below the target range, the control system automatically starts the electric auxiliary heater after detecting that the energy storage unit temperature is below the critical value. This assists the phase change energy storage unit in releasing heat and ensures a stable indoor temperature. Once the weather improves and the energy storage unit is fully charged, the electric auxiliary heater automatically stops operating to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.

[0048] In extreme low-temperature conditions, when outdoor temperatures plummet to below -20°C, the rate of heat dissipation indoors accelerates, significantly increasing the demand for heating. In this situation, the control system prioritizes ensuring the heat release efficiency of the phase change energy storage unit, keeping the thermal switch chamber in a continuously off mode to prevent reverse heat loss. The operating frequency of the circulation pump is appropriately increased to accelerate hot water circulation and improve the indoor heat supply rate. Simultaneously, if daytime solar irradiance is adequate, the control system extends the superconducting mode operation time of the thermal switch chamber to maximize the heat charging efficiency of the phase change energy storage unit, ensuring sufficient heat supply at night. If daytime heating is insufficient to meet the heat demand under extreme nighttime temperatures, the control system activates the electric auxiliary heater in advance, working in conjunction with the phase change energy storage unit to provide heating, thus doubly ensuring that the indoor temperature remains stable within a comfortable range and preventing a drop in indoor temperature due to extreme low temperatures.

[0049] This invention achieves dynamic adjustment of thermal conductivity through flexible switching of three operating modes in a thermally switched chamber. It can precisely control the heat flow path and power based on heat source intensity, energy storage status, and indoor demand, avoiding overcharging, undercharging, or heat waste problems caused by uncontrollable heat flow in traditional heating systems, thus improving the flexibility and accuracy of heat flow control. In shutdown mode, the thermally switched chamber effectively cuts off the heat path. Combined with the efficient insulation design of the phase change energy storage unit, it reduces system heat loss, solving the problem of high heat loss in traditional energy storage systems, improving heat utilization efficiency, and ensuring the continuity and stability of nighttime heating. (Control system) By using multiple temperature sensors to monitor the temperature of the heat source, energy storage, and indoor environment in real time, the system can achieve coordinated judgment and linkage control of multiple temperature zones. It can flexibly adapt to various working conditions such as sunny days, cloudy days, and extreme low temperatures, and automatically adjust the system's operating status to ensure that it can provide stable and comfortable heating for the indoor environment under different working conditions, thus solving the problem of poor adaptability of traditional systems. The system uses solar energy as the main heat source, giving priority to the use of clean and renewable energy sources, and only starts electric auxiliary heating when necessary, reducing dependence on traditional energy sources. This aligns with the trend of low-carbon and environmental protection, while saving energy costs for users and demonstrating good economic and environmental benefits.

[0050] The same or similar labels correspond to the same or similar parts; The terms used to describe positional relationships in the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting this patent. Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all implementation methods here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A high-efficiency heating system coupled with a vacuum heat pipe array and phase change energy storage, characterized in that, include: Vacuum heat pipe array, thermal switch chamber, phase change energy storage unit and control system; The condenser end of the vacuum heat pipe array is integrated into the upper cover plate of the thermal switch chamber, the phase change energy storage unit is attached to the lower surface of the thermal switch chamber, and the control system is connected to the thermal switch chamber. The thermal switch chamber is used to change its own thermal conductivity according to the instructions of the control system, so as to dynamically adjust the heat flow path and power between the vacuum heat pipe array and the phase change energy storage unit. The control system is used to monitor system temperature parameters and send control commands to the thermal switching chamber based on the temperature parameters.

2. The heating system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The thermal switching chamber includes a sealed metal cavity, low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles, and an electromagnetic coil. The low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles are filled inside the sealed metal cavity, and the electromagnetic coil is wound around the outside of the sealed metal cavity and connected to the control system. The electromagnetic coil is used to generate a magnetic field when energized, so as to cause the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to change state, thereby changing the thermal conductivity of the thermal switching chamber.

3. The heating system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles are gallium-indium alloy particles or bismuth-indium-tin alloy particles.

4. The heating system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The control system includes a temperature sensor and a microcontroller; The temperature sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the vacuum heat pipe array, the temperature of the phase change energy storage unit and the room temperature, and sends the monitored temperature data to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is used to generate control commands based on the temperature data and send the control commands to the thermal switching chamber.

5. The heating system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The thermal switch chamber can polarize and aggregate the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles into a solid thermally conductive chain when the electromagnetic coil is energized to generate a strong magnetic field, thus placing them in a superconducting mode with ultra-high thermal conductivity; wherein, the superconducting mode is used to realize the maximum power charging of the vacuum heat pipe array to the phase change energy storage unit.

6. The heating system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The thermal switching chamber enables the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to rapidly switch between liquid and solid states when an alternating or intermittent magnetic field is generated by a pulse-width modulated current applied to the electromagnetic coil, thus placing them in a modulation mode with an adjustable equivalent thermal conductivity. The modulation mode is used to achieve precise control of the heat transfer power from the vacuum heat pipe array to the phase change energy storage unit.

7. The heating system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The thermal switch chamber can restore the low-melting-point magnetic alloy particles to independent liquid spheres when the electromagnetic coil is de-energized and there is no magnetic field, and put them in a high thermal resistance shutdown mode; wherein, the shutdown mode is used to cut off the thermal path during the period when the phase change energy storage unit has finished charging or releasing heat, to prevent heat from being lost in the opposite direction.

8. The heating system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a heating terminal circulation pump, which is connected to the control system; the heating terminal circulation pump is used to start under the control of the control system so that the heat stored in the phase change energy storage unit is released into the room to realize indoor heating in heat release mode.

9. The heating system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The vacuum heat pipe array is used to absorb heat from an external heat source and transfer the heat to its condensation end; the phase change energy storage unit is used to store or release heat through a phase change process.

10. The heating system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The sealed metal cavity is flat and made of copper or aluminum alloy.

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