Self-powered floor heating water temperature meter based on water friction nanometer power generation

Abstract

The utility model provides a self-powered floor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nanometer power generation, which relates to the field of micro energy collection in intelligent buildings and comprises an energy storage module and an energy conversion module which are positioned in the floor heating water temperature gauge, and an energy collection module which is arranged on a floor heating pipeline, the energy collection module is a pipeline water energy collection device based on a triboelectric nano-generator, the triboelectric nano-generator comprises a PTFE pipeline and an annular conductive metal electrode, the energy collection module is connected with the energy storage module through the energy conversion module, and the energy storage module is used for providing electric energy for operation of the floor heating water temperature gauge. According to the utility model, household floor heating water energy can be fully utilized and converted into energy of the floor heating water temperature gauge to be provided, so that the self-power-supply effect is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a micro-energy acquisition device in an intelligent building, and in particular to a self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer based on water friction nano-power generation. Background Technology

[0002] Hydropower is one of the most promising renewable and clean energy sources. Compared to solar and wind power, the energy provided by water is much less dependent on seasons, weather, and temperature. Traditional hydropower harvesting methods based on electromagnetic induction mainly focus on harvesting energy from rivers and oceans, which requires the construction of large-scale water conservancy projects. However, there is abundant flowing water everywhere in our daily lives, which can provide a continuous source of energy. Triboelectric nanogenerators are a powerful micro-energy harvesting technology based on a combination of triboelectric charging and electrostatic induction, offering advantages such as high efficiency, low cost, and simple configuration.

[0003] Flowing water can provide two types of energy: mechanical energy and electrostatic energy transferred at time-varying interfaces between air or pipes. Designing a simple triboelectric nanogenerator to harvest energy from flowing water through triboelectric charging at the liquid / solid interface, converting water energy into usable electrical energy to power underfloor heating thermometers, is feasible.

[0004] Triboelectric nanogenerators can convert numerous distributed high-entropy low-frequency energies in the environment into effective electrical energy. In addition, triboelectric nanogenerators can be designed in various shapes and sizes, making them easier to install in various devices and structures. Besides their flexibility, triboelectric nanogenerators are usually made of relatively inexpensive materials and have simple components, which also makes them have lower manufacturing and maintenance costs. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing water energy harvesting technologies, this invention provides a self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer based on water friction nano-power generation. This solves the problem of harvesting energy from flowing water in household pipes to power the underfloor heating water thermometer. The technical solution is as follows:

[0006] A self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer based on triboelectric nanogenerator includes an energy storage module and an energy conversion module located inside the underfloor heating water thermometer, as well as an energy harvesting module installed on the underfloor heating pipe. The energy harvesting module is a pipe water energy collection device based on a triboelectric nanogenerator. The triboelectric nanogenerator includes a PTFE tube and a ring-shaped conductive metal electrode. The energy harvesting module is connected to the energy storage module through the energy conversion module. The energy storage module is used to provide electrical energy for the operation of the underfloor heating water thermometer.

[0007] The PTFE pipe forms one section of the underfloor heating pipe, and its two ends are sealed to conventional underfloor heating pipes through flange interfaces. High-temperature resistant rubber gaskets are installed at the flange interfaces, and stainless steel clamps are installed on the outer wall of the pipe.

[0008] The PTFE pipe is 10cm to 18cm in length and has the same inner diameter as the underfloor heating pipe. Three conductive metal electrodes are arranged in a ring on the inner wall of the PTFE pipe. The conductive metal electrodes are 8mm to 12mm wide and 0.3mm to 0.6mm thick. The spacing between adjacent electrodes is 1cm to 3cm and they are connected in parallel by silver-plated copper wire.

[0009] The conductive metal electrode material is selected from electrolytic copper foil, and the multi-segment electrode configuration can improve the energy harvesting efficiency.

[0010] The energy harvesting module is wrapped with a double-layer silicone insulating sleeve, and an additional aluminum foil shielding layer is added to the outer layer to suppress electromagnetic interference.

[0011] The energy storage module includes a voltage regulator module and a battery pack. The battery pack is connected to the energy conversion module through the voltage regulator module. The voltage regulator module is used to receive the electrical energy converted by the piezoelectric transducer and convert the electrical energy into a stable voltage. The battery pack is used to receive the stable voltage converted by the voltage regulator module.

[0012] The energy conversion module integrates an ultra-low power boost converter, which collects the input current of the energy acquisition module to charge the battery pack of the water temperature gauge.

[0013] The conductive metal electrode in the energy harvesting module is connected to the energy conversion module through a wire. When the conductive metal electrode generates current, the current is transmitted to the energy conversion module through the wire. In the energy conversion module, the current first enters the ultra-low power boost converter. This converter can boost the low voltage current to a suitable voltage level.

[0014] The energy storage module has a built-in overcharge protection chip DW01, which cuts off the charging circuit when the battery voltage is ≥4.2V and discharges excess charge through a bypass resistor.

[0015] In its initial state, the triboelectric nanogenerator interacts with the flowing water and the PTFE tube. The PTFE tube extracts electrons from the water and retains a layer of negative bound charge for a long time. Due to electrostatic induction, the conductive metal electrode is positively charged to maintain electrical balance. Once the water approaches the metal electrode, electrons will transfer from the ground to the metal electrode, causing leakage of the edge electric field. Since the metal electrode is of finite size, an instantaneous current is generated. As the water continues to flow through the pipe, the triboelectric nanogenerator can continuously provide current output.

[0016] The self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer based on water friction nanogenerator eliminates the need for complex mechanical structures or equipment. It collects energy from flowing water through triboelectric charging at the liquid / solid interface, converting water energy into usable electrical energy to power the underfloor heating water thermometer. This solves the problems of pollution and limited lifespan associated with disposable dry-cell batteries. By fully utilizing the electrostatic energy generated by friction between water and pipes, and leveraging the simplicity and reliability of the triboelectric nanogenerator itself, this invention achieves a self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer, making the entire system more stable and reliable. Attached Figure Description

[0017] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort:

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer based on water friction nano-power generation;

[0019] Figure 2 It is the aforementioned Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the energy harvesting module, numbered A in the middle section;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram of the energy conversion module;

[0021] The labels in the diagram are as follows:

[0022] 1-Energy harvesting module; 2-Energy conversion module; 3-Energy storage module; 4-Underfloor heating water thermometer; 5-Voltage stabilizing module; 6-PTFE pipe; 7-Conductive metal electrode; 8-Battery pack. Detailed Implementation

[0023] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application. The embodiments of this utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] like Figure 1As shown, the self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer based on triboelectric nanogenerators collects energy from flowing water through triboelectric charging at the liquid / solid interface, converting water energy into usable electrical energy to supply the power needs of the underfloor heating water thermometer. This solves the problems of pollution and limited service life associated with disposable dry batteries. It includes an energy storage module 3 and an energy conversion module 2 located inside the underfloor heating water thermometer 4, and an energy harvesting module 1 installed on the underfloor heating pipes. The energy harvesting module 1 is a pipe water energy harvesting device based on triboelectric nanogenerators, including... Figure 2 The PTFE tube 6 and conductive metal electrode 7 are shown. The energy harvesting module 1 is connected to the energy storage module 3 through the energy conversion module 2. The energy storage module 3 is used to provide electrical energy for the operation of the underfloor heating water thermometer 4.

[0025] The energy harvesting module 1 is used to convert the water energy flowing in the underfloor heating pipes into usable electrical energy for collection. It is located on the inner wall of the pipe and is connected to the energy conversion module inside the underfloor heating water temperature meter base via a high-efficiency wire. The energy harvesting module 1 is wrapped with a double-layer silicone insulating sleeve, and an additional aluminum foil shielding layer is added to the outer layer to suppress electromagnetic interference.

[0026] The energy harvesting module 1 is located within the underfloor heating pipe. It forms a triboelectric nanogenerator via a PTFE pipe 6 and conductive metal electrodes 7. The PTFE pipe is a section of the underfloor heating pipe, with both ends sealed to conventional underfloor heating pipes (such as PE-X, PB, PE-RT, PPR, etc.) through flange interfaces. High-temperature resistant rubber gaskets are installed at the flange interfaces to ensure water flow sealing. Stainless steel clamps are added to the outer wall of the pipe to enhance mechanical stability, thereby ensuring fluid continuity and structural strength. The PTFE pipe 6 is made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon, a high-molecular polymer polymerized from tetrafluoroethylene monomers with the chemical formula (C2F4)n. It has excellent heat and cold resistance and can be used for extended periods at temperatures ranging from -180 to 260ºC. Its coefficient of friction is relatively low compared to most solid materials.

[0027] The PTFE tube 6 is 15cm long, with an inner diameter matching that of the underfloor heating pipe. Three conductive metal electrodes, 10mm wide and 0.5mm thick, are arranged in a ring around the inner wall of the PTFE tube. The spacing between adjacent electrodes can be set to 2cm, and they are connected in parallel via silver-plated copper wire. The PTFE tube 6, in conjunction with the conductive metal electrodes, can collect water energy to generate electricity, achieving self-powered operation—a unique function not found in other commonly used underfloor heating pipe materials. This function allows the PTFE tube-based energy harvesting module to provide a continuous power supply to devices such as underfloor heating water thermometers, eliminating the need for an external power source. This not only saves energy but also improves the system's independence and reliability.

[0028] The PTFE tube and conductive metal electrode operate on the principle of triboelectric charging and electrostatic induction coupling. Initially, the flowing water interacts with the PTFE tube 6. Due to the inherent properties of the insulating polymer, the PTFE tube extracts electrons from the water and retains a layer of negative bound charge for an extended period. Due to electrostatic induction, the conductive metal electrode 7 becomes positively charged to maintain electrical balance. Once water approaches the metal electrode, electrons transfer from the ground to the conductive metal electrode 7. Since the conductive metal electrode 7 has a finite size, a transient current is generated. Continuous current output is achieved as water flows continuously through this area. Specifically, the conductive metal electrode 7 is made of electrolytic copper foil (purity ≥ 99.9%).

[0029] like Figure 3 As shown, the energy conversion module 2 integrates an ultra-low power boost converter to collect the input current of the energy acquisition module 1 and charge the battery pack 8 of the water temperature gauge, i.e., the lithium-ion battery inside the water temperature gauge. After the energy conversion module 2 is started, it can convert the DC power collected by the energy acquisition module 1 to realize the operation of charging the lithium-ion battery through an ultra-low power boost converter. This module is located inside the base of the water temperature gauge.

[0030] The conductive metal electrode 7 in the energy harvesting module 1 is connected to the energy conversion module 2 via a wire. When current is generated on the conductive metal electrode 7, it is transmitted to the energy conversion module 2 through the wire. In the energy conversion module 2, the current first enters the ultra-low power boost converter. This converter can boost the low-voltage current to a suitable voltage level to meet the power requirements of subsequent devices. After a series of rectification and boosting processes, including the rectifier module and the boost converter module, the electrical energy is finally delivered to the battery pack of the water temperature meter for charging, providing a stable power source for the normal operation of the water temperature meter.

[0031] The energy storage module 3 includes a voltage regulator module 5 and a battery pack 8. The battery pack 8 is connected to the energy conversion module 2 via the voltage regulator module 5. The voltage regulator module 5 receives the electrical energy converted by the piezoelectric transducer and converts it into a stable voltage. The battery pack 8 receives the stable voltage converted by the voltage regulator module 5. Furthermore, the battery pack 8 is formed by multiple batteries connected in series and connected to the voltage regulator module 5. It receives the stable electrical energy converted by the voltage regulator module 5 and stores it in the battery pack in the form of chemical energy. Specifically, the battery pack 30 is a lithium-ion battery, which supports multiple external charging operations and provides energy support for the water temperature gauge.

[0032] The energy conversion module 2 is integrated inside the water temperature gauge. Its functions include rectification, voltage boosting, and charging to ensure the effective utilization of triboelectricity. Internally, it includes a rectifier module, a voltage boosting module, and a control module. The rectifier module converts the AC signal output from the triboelectric nanogenerator into a DC signal. The voltage boosting module adjusts the voltage of the triboelectric nanogenerator to a suitable charging voltage (4.2V for lithium batteries). The control module mainly includes a POR module (voltage start-up judgment), a ZCS module (zero current switch), and a hysteresis comparator. These modules work together to achieve voltage boosting control logic under ultra-low power consumption.

[0033] The control module needs to operate normally under a certain power supply voltage. The POR module mainly detects the magnitude of the control module's power supply voltage VDD and initiates the control module's operation. The hysteresis comparator detects the magnitude of voltage VDD and determines the capacitance C. store The ZCS module detects the inductor's current during discharge and changes TG_P from high to low when the inductor discharges to zero.

[0034] The energy storage module 3 also has a built-in overcharge protection chip DW01, which cuts off the charging circuit when the battery voltage is ≥4.2V and discharges excess charge through a bypass resistor. This part is used to detect whether the lithium-ion battery is fully charged during charging. When fully charged, the water temperature gauge will actively stop the charging operation and release excess charge through the internal discharge device of the circuit. This avoids dangerous charging operations on the lithium battery.

[0035] This invention utilizes a triboelectric nanogenerator based on the working principle of triboelectric charging and electrostatic induction coupling. In the initial state, flowing water interacts with a PTFE tube 6. Due to the inherent properties of the insulating polymer, the PTFE tube extracts electrons from the water and retains a layer of negative bound charge for a long time. Due to electrostatic induction, the conductive metal electrode 7 is positively charged to maintain electrical balance. Once the water approaches the metal electrode, electrons are transferred from the ground to the metal electrode, causing leakage of the edge electric field. Since the metal electrode has a finite size, a momentary current is generated. When the water and the metal electrode are fully aligned, the transferred charge reaches its maximum on the electrode. When the water begins to move away from the electrode, electrons flow back to the ground and generate a reverse current. As the water continues to flow through the underfloor heating pipe, the triboelectric nanogenerator can continuously provide current output.

[0036] The self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer based on water friction nanogenerator eliminates the need for complex mechanical structures or equipment. It collects energy from flowing water through triboelectric charging at the liquid / solid interface, converting water energy into usable electrical energy to power the underfloor heating water thermometer. This solves the problems of pollution and limited lifespan associated with disposable dry-cell batteries. By fully utilizing the electrostatic energy generated by friction between water and pipes, and leveraging the simplicity and reliability of the triboelectric nanogenerator itself, this invention achieves a self-powered underfloor heating water thermometer, making the entire system more stable and reliable.

[0037] It should be noted that, in this application, the terms “comprising,” “including,” or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0038] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, enabling those skilled in the art to understand or implement this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features claimed herein.

Claims

1. A self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation, characterized in that: It includes an energy storage module and an energy conversion module located inside the underfloor heating water temperature meter, as well as an energy harvesting module installed on the underfloor heating pipes. The energy harvesting module is a pipe water energy collection device based on a triboelectric nanogenerator. The triboelectric nanogenerator includes a PTFE tube and a ring-shaped conductive metal electrode. The energy harvesting module is connected to the energy storage module through the energy conversion module. The energy storage module is used to provide electrical energy for the operation of the underfloor heating water temperature meter.

2. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The PTFE pipe forms one section of the underfloor heating pipe, and its two ends are sealed to conventional underfloor heating pipes through flange interfaces. High-temperature resistant rubber gaskets are installed at the flange interfaces, and stainless steel clamps are installed on the outer wall of the pipe.

3. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The PTFE pipe is 10cm to 18cm in length and has the same inner diameter as the underfloor heating pipe. Three conductive metal electrodes are arranged in a ring on the inner wall of the PTFE pipe. The conductive metal electrodes are 8mm to 12mm wide and 0.3mm to 0.6mm thick. The spacing between adjacent electrodes is 1cm to 3cm and they are connected in parallel by silver-plated copper wire.

4. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The conductive metal electrode material is electrolytic copper foil, and the multi-segment electrode configuration can improve the energy harvesting efficiency.

5. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The energy harvesting module is wrapped with a double-layer silicone insulating sleeve, and an additional aluminum foil shielding layer is added to the outer layer to suppress electromagnetic interference.

6. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The energy storage module includes a voltage regulator module and a battery pack. The battery pack is connected to the energy conversion module through the voltage regulator module. The voltage regulator module is used to receive the electrical energy converted by the piezoelectric transducer and convert the electrical energy into a stable voltage. The battery pack is used to receive the stable voltage converted by the voltage regulator module.

7. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The energy conversion module integrates an ultra-low power boost converter, which collects the input current of the energy acquisition module to charge the battery pack of the water temperature gauge.

8. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 7, characterized in that: The conductive metal electrode in the energy harvesting module is connected to the energy conversion module through a wire. When the conductive metal electrode generates current, the current is transmitted to the energy conversion module through the wire. In the energy conversion module, the current first enters the ultra-low power boost converter. This converter is able to boost low-voltage current to a suitable voltage level.

9. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: The energy storage module has a built-in overcharge protection chip DW01, which cuts off the charging circuit when the battery voltage is ≥4.2V and discharges excess charge through a bypass resistor.

10. The self-powered underfloor heating water temperature gauge based on water friction nano-power generation according to claim 1, characterized in that: In its initial state, the triboelectric nanogenerator interacts with the flowing water and the PTFE tube. The PTFE tube extracts electrons from the water and retains a layer of negative bound charge for a long time. Due to electrostatic induction, the conductive metal electrode is positively charged to maintain electrical balance. Once the water approaches the metal electrode, electrons will transfer from the ground to the metal electrode, causing leakage of the edge electric field. Since the metal electrode is of finite size, an instantaneous current is generated. As the water continues to flow through the pipe, the triboelectric nanogenerator can continuously provide current output.

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