Energy exchange unit for an energy storage device

Abstract

The invention relates to an energy exchanger unit (1) for an energy storage device (18) comprising at least one casing (2) that defines an interior space (3) and can hold a liquid, at least one heat exchanger (5, 6), and at least one support structure (4) for supporting at least the casing (2) and / or the heat exchanger (5, 6). Furthermore, the support structure (4) is at least partially located within the interior space (3). The invention also relates to a use of the casing (2). Finally, the invention relates to the energy storage device (18) comprising an energy exchanger unit (1) and a container (19) in which the energy exchanger unit (1) is at least partially located.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an energy exchanger unit for an energy storage device comprising at least one enclosure that defines an interior space and can hold a liquid, comprising at least one heat exchanger and comprising at least one support structure for supporting at least the enclosure and / or the heat exchanger.

[0002] A device for energy transmission and energy storage is known from WO 2021 / 004937 A1.

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide an energy exchanger unit for an energy storage device that is easy to install.

[0004] The problem is solved by an energy exchanger unit, the use of the energy exchanger unit, and / or an energy storage device having the features of the independent claim. Advantageous or preferred embodiments are each the subject of a corresponding dependent claim.

[0005] An energy exchanger unit for an energy storage device is proposed. The energy storage device, for which the energy exchanger unit is intended, can, for example, be located underground. The energy storage device can store heat, which can then be used to heat a building. Additionally or alternatively, the energy storage device can also be used to cool the building by transferring heat from the building to the energy storage device. This heat can then be used for heating.

[0006] The energy exchange unit comprises at least one casing that defines an interior space and can hold a liquid. This liquid can be water, which is readily available and not subject to environmental regulations. The liquid also serves as a heat storage medium. Water is particularly suitable for this purpose because, in addition to being easy to handle, it has a high heat capacity. Furthermore, an ice storage system can be created using the water.

[0007] In this process, the water can freeze when heat is extracted for heating, which provides a high amount of latent heat.

[0008] Furthermore, the energy exchanger unit includes at least one heat exchanger. With the help of this heat exchanger, heat can be transferred to or extracted from the liquid. For example, the heat extracted from the liquid can be used to heat a building.

[0009] Furthermore, the energy exchanger unit includes at least one support structure for carrying at least the casing and / or the heat exchanger. The support structure forms a framework or base frame on which at least the casing and / or the heat exchanger is mounted. With the aid of the support structure, the energy exchanger unit can be carried, transported, and / or positioned and / or installed at its designated location.

[0010] The support structure is located at least partially inside the casing. This placement allows for a compact design that enables efficient use of the available volume. As a result, the support structure is also at least partially submerged in the liquid when the liquid is contained within the casing during intended use. The casing can thus form an outer shell or casing for the energy exchanger unit, with the support structure located within this shell or casing. Consequently, the energy exchanger unit can be easily prefabricated in the factory. At the energy storage site, the energy exchanger unit can be placed in a designated container without requiring any further assembly steps, or at least only minimal ones. The liquid, preferably water, can then be poured into the casing.

[0011] It is advantageous if at least one heat exchanger and / or the casing are mounted on the support structure. It is also advantageous if at least one heat exchanger and / or the casing are suspended from the support structure. This arrangement facilitates the assembly and / or disassembly of the components, which simplifies maintenance work, for example.

[0012] It is advantageous if the supporting structure and / or at least one heat exchanger is at least partially completely surrounded by the casing.

[0013] The complete enclosure ensures that the support structure and / or the heat exchanger are always immersed in the fluid. Additionally or alternatively, this allows for a simpler design of the energy exchanger unit. "Partially complete" here means that the section of the support structure and / or at least one heat exchanger that is completely enclosed by the housing, including sections extending into the housing, is entirely surrounded by the enclosure. It is possible that another section of the support structure and / or at least one heat exchanger is located outside the enclosure.

[0014] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the covering is closed and / or continuous, at least in one circumferential direction, and in particular completely. As a result, the escape of liquid from the interior and / or from the covering can be prevented. This also eliminates the need for complex sealing.

[0015] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one heat exchanger is arranged in sections within the interior. This sectional arrangement allows for optimized heat distribution and / or heat transfer to the fluid, thus increasing energy efficiency.

[0016] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the support structure and / or the at least one heat exchanger are spaced apart from the enclosure, particularly from the enclosure base and / or wall, during normal use. This spacing prevents damage to the enclosure if, for example, the support structure and / or the at least one heat exchanger rests on the enclosure. This means that the support structure and / or the at least one heat exchanger do not have contact with the enclosure, especially with the enclosure base and / or wall, during normal use. An exception to this is the area where the enclosure is attached to and / or suspended from the support structure.

[0017] It is advantageous if the casing has an insertion opening through which the supporting structure extends into the casing and / or into the interior.

[0018] The insertion opening facilitates the installation of the supporting structure and enables a modular design, which improves flexibility in construction and adaptation to different applications.

[0019] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the supporting structure has an interior section and an exterior section, with the interior section being located inside and the exterior section outside the interior. As a result, part of the supporting structure, namely the interior section, can be located entirely within the enclosure. The other part of the supporting structure, namely the exterior section, is located outside the enclosure.

[0020] It is advantageous if the supporting structure is spaced away from the cladding in the interior section. This excludes the area where the cladding is attached to and / or suspended from the supporting structure.

[0021] It is advantageous if the covering, especially only in the area of ​​attachment to the supporting structure, has contact with the supporting structure.

[0022] It is advantageous if the casing is arranged around the supporting structure, particularly around the interior section. This allows the liquid to be retained within the interior section of the supporting structure. In this configuration, at least one heat exchanger, in particular the heat exchanger that is located in or in contact with the liquid, is situated within the liquid.

[0023] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the interior section of the support structure is at least partially separated from the casing, particularly in a radial direction of the energy exchanger unit. This radial separation between the casing and the support structure improves flow and heat distribution within the interior, further increasing the efficiency of the heat exchange. Additionally or alternatively, this prevents contact between the casing and the support structure, thus preventing damage to the casing. Damage must be prevented to avoid fluid leakage.

[0024] It is advantageous if the support structure includes at least one suspension element by means of which the energy exchanger unit can be suspended in a container of the energy storage device. This suspension element enables quick and secure installation of the energy exchanger unit in the container. It is advantageous if this suspension element is the only connection to the container. This allows the energy exchanger unit to be quickly assembled and / or disassembled. Advantageously, several suspension elements can also be provided to ensure a secure connection, particularly a secure suspension. With the aid of this suspension element, the energy exchanger unit can also be positioned at a distance from the container. Consequently, the support structure and / or the heat exchanger, with the exception of the suspension element, are spaced away from the container.This prevents the support structure from resting on the container, with the outer casing sandwiched between the container and the support structure, thus avoiding the risk of the casing being forced through and damaged. By hooking or suspending the structure, damage to the casing is prevented.

[0025] It is advantageous if at least one of the mounting elements extends through the insertion opening. This ensures that the energy exchanger unit is mounted in such a way that the casing is below the mounting points. This also prevents the casing from being in an area between the at least one mounting element and the container, thus preventing damage to the casing.

[0026] It is advantageous if the supporting structure comprises at least one ring element that extends at least partially in one circumferential direction of the energy exchanger unit and to which the casing is arranged, in particular suspended. The use of a ring element increases the structural stability of the supporting structure and ensures the uniform arrangement of the casing on the supporting structure, thus enabling a uniform load distribution and extending the unit's service life. The casing can also be very easily arranged and / or suspended on the at least one ring element. Advantageously, the at least one ring element can be completely closed in the circumferential direction, extending through 360°. Alternatively, the at least one ring element can also be composed of several individual ring element sections. The ring element sections can be spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction or they can be in a circumferential abutting each other.

[0027] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the supporting structure comprises at least one horizontal strut and / or at least one vertical strut. The at least one heat exchanger can be arranged, in particular suspended, on the at least one horizontal strut and / or at least one vertical strut. Additionally or alternatively, another element, in particular the support unit described below, can be arranged on the at least one horizontal strut and / or at least one vertical strut, on which the heat exchanger rests and / or which supports the heat exchanger. The horizontal and vertical struts provide a stable design for the supporting structure while maintaining a low weight.

[0028] It is advantageous if the supporting structure includes at least one support unit on which the at least one heat exchanger is arranged, in particular, mounted. The support unit enables safe and stable mounting of the heat exchanger, which reduces mechanical stress and increases operational reliability.

[0029] It is advantageous if the storage unit is connected to at least one vertical strut and / or faces the base of the enclosure.

[0030] Furthermore, it is advantageous if at least one ring element, at least one horizontal strut, at least one vertical strut, and / or at least one support unit are located inside. The internal placement of these elements optimizes space utilization and supports the structural integrity of the overall system.

[0031] It is advantageous if at least one heat exchanger is a water heat exchanger located inside the building and / or attached to the supporting structure, in particular suspended from it. The water heat exchanger allows heat to be transferred to or extracted from the liquid.

[0032] It is advantageous if the energy exchanger unit comprises at least two heat exchangers, specifically at least one water heat exchanger and at least one air heat exchanger. The combination of water and air heat exchangers enables multifunctional use and can thus be employed for temperature control as needed. The air heat exchanger is not located within the fluid but can exchange heat with the surrounding air. Advantageously, the air heat exchanger is positioned above the water heat exchanger when the energy exchanger unit is used as intended. For example, the air heat exchanger can transfer heat into the fluid if the fluid is at least partially frozen or at least colder than the surroundings. This allows heat from the ambient air to be supplied back to the fluid.The air-to-water heat exchanger and the water-to-water heat exchanger can be connected, for example, by means of pipes, so that the air-to-water heat exchanger can extract heat from the air to warm the fluid and, if necessary, defrost it. The air-to-water heat exchanger can also extract heat from the fluid, which is then released into the surrounding air. This can be particularly advantageous in summer when the building is being cooled and the fluid is very warm.

[0033] It is advantageous if the air heat exchanger is positioned above the water heat exchanger, its casing, inlet opening, interior, ring element, horizontal brace, and / or vertical brace. This allows the air heat exchanger to be placed above the water.

[0034] It is advantageous if the casing is formed in one piece. A one-piece casing reduces the number of manufacturing steps and the likelihood of leaks, leading to increased reliability. Consequently, the sealing performance is improved.

[0035] It is advantageous if the casing is made of two parts and / or comprises at least two layers. A multi-layered or two-part casing allows for improved thermal insulation and / or casing durability and offers the possibility of combining different materials for specific functional requirements.

[0036] It is advantageous if at least the two layers are bonded together by a material-bonded connection. This material-bonded connection increases mechanical strength and prevents moisture penetration between the layers, thus extending the service life of the covering.

[0037] It is advantageous if an inlet and / or outlet of at least one heat exchanger is routed through the casing. Integrating inlets and outlets through the casing optimizes space requirements.

[0038] It is advantageous if the covering is a film, especially a flexible one.

[0039] A flexible film as a wrapping material offers a high degree of adaptability to different shapes and sizes and enables cost-efficient production.

[0040] It is advantageous if the first layer of the casing is a film, particularly a flexible one, and / or if the second layer is a nonwoven fabric, with the first layer facing the interior. The combination of film and nonwoven fabric provides a good barrier against liquid penetration and improves thermal insulation, thus increasing the overall efficiency and reliability of the device. Using the nonwoven fabric as an outer layer prevents damage to the film, which primarily serves to retain the liquid.

[0041] It is further proposed that an enclosure be used for an energy exchanger unit. The energy exchanger unit exhibits at least one feature of the preceding and / or following description. The enclosure also exhibits at least one feature of the preceding and / or following description.

[0042] Furthermore, an energy storage device with an energy exchanger unit is proposed. This energy storage device can, for example, store heat on warm days, which can then be used to heat a building on colder days. The energy storage device can be used to heat and / or cool the building. During heating, heat is extracted from a heat reservoir. During cooling, heat is transferred from the building to the heat reservoir. The energy storage device can be embedded in the ground to achieve a space-saving design. The ground can also serve as natural insulation. The energy storage device can also be used to cool the building by storing heat. For heat storage, the energy storage device can incorporate a liquid or a liquid reservoir that acts as a heat storage medium.The liquid can be, for example, water or a brine solution. The liquid or heat storage medium can also be a latent heat storage medium, either additionally or alternatively.

[0043] Furthermore, the energy storage device includes a container in which the energy exchanger unit is at least partially located. The container serves to hold the heat storage medium and to stabilize the energy storage device.

[0044] The energy exchanger unit exhibits at least one characteristic of the preceding and / or following description.

[0045] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the energy exchanger unit is suspended inside the container. This simplifies installation. It also eliminates the need to place the unit inside the container, thus removing the requirement for a support element or similar structure. Additionally, this prevents damage to the casing, as it is essentially unsupported, and the supporting structure does not rest on the casing within the container.

[0046] It is advantageous if the energy storage device includes a lid. The inclusion of a lid contributes to the safety and environmental resistance of the entire energy storage device by protecting the internal components from external influences.

[0047] It is advantageous if the cover includes at least one air inlet and / or at least one air outlet. Integrating an air inlet and / or outlet improves air circulation within the energy storage device, enabling more efficient cooling or heating of the stored energy. The at least one air inlet and / or outlet is particularly important in conjunction with the air heat exchanger. Air circulation can be assisted by a fan, which can be positioned below the cover.

[0048] It is advantageous if the lid is closed and / or designed to be drive-over. A closed, drive-over lid increases the multifunctionality of the storage unit by providing additional usable space and enhancing safety.

[0049] It is advantageous if the support structure of the energy exchanger unit and / or at least one heat exchanger of the energy exchanger unit is spaced away from the bottom and / or wall of the vessel. This spacing of these components from the vessel bottom and walls minimizes heat loss. Additionally or alternatively, this prevents damage to the energy exchanger unit and, in particular, its casing. The energy exchanger unit is thus suspended freely within the vessel, except for the points where it is mounted.

[0050] It is advantageous if the casing rests against the bottom and / or the sides of the container. This contact improves the stability of the energy exchanger unit within the container and protects the casing from abrasion and other mechanical stresses. In this case, the pressure of the fluid presses the casing against the inside of the container.

[0051] It is advantageous if the tank is made of concrete and / or precast concrete elements. For example, the tank can be constructed from several individual concrete rings. Consequently, the tank can be easily constructed and / or installed in the ground.

[0052] Further advantages of the invention are described in the following exemplary embodiments. These show: Figure 1 a schematic sectional view of an energy exchanger unit without a heat exchanger, Figure 2 a schematic sectional view of an energy exchanger unit with heat exchanger, Figure 3 a schematic sectional view of a supporting structure of the energy exchanger unit, Figure 4 a schematic sectional view of an energy exchanger unit with two heat exchangers, Figure 5 a schematic sectional view of an energy storage device with the energy exchange unit and a liquid, Figure 6a schematic sectional view of an energy storage device with the energy exchanger unit with two heat exchangers and a cover with air inlet and air outlet openings, Figure 7 a schematic sectional view of an energy storage device with the energy exchanger unit with two heat exchangers and a closed lid and Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of the two-layered encapsulation.

[0053] Figure 1 Figure 1 shows an energy exchanger unit 1 for an energy storage device 18. Energy or heat can be stored and extracted using the energy storage device 18. This allows a building to be cooled and / or heated.

[0054] The energy exchanger unit 1 comprises a casing 2 that encloses an interior space 3. Within this interior space 3, a support structure 4 is at least partially arranged, serving to support at least the casing 2. The casing 2 is designed to contain a liquid 27. The support structure 4 is arranged within the interior space 3 such that it is at least partially enclosed within it.

[0055] The enclosure 2 also has an enclosure base 7 and an enclosure wall 8.

[0056] Furthermore, the covering 2, as can be seen here, has the shape of a sack, in which the supporting structure 4 is arranged or at least partially surrounds the covering 2.

[0057] The covering 2 further includes an insertion opening 9 through which the supporting structure 4 is inserted into the interior 3 or through which the supporting structure 4 extends into or out of the interior 3.

[0058] According to the present embodiment, the support structure 4 has at least one interior section 10 and one exterior section 11. The interior section 10 is arranged inside the interior 3, while the exterior section 11 is arranged outside the interior 3. It can also be seen that the casing 2 encloses the support structure 4, in particular the interior section 10. According to the present embodiment, the insertion opening 9 separates the interior section 10 from the exterior section 11.

[0059] According to the Figure 1It can further be seen that the support structure 4 comprises at least one suspension element 12, which enables the energy exchanger unit 1 to be attached, arranged, and / or suspended in a container 19 of the energy storage device 18. The energy exchanger unit 1 can be suspended from the container 19 by means of the at least one suspension element 12, as shown in a subsequent figure. The at least one suspension element 12 extends through the insertion opening 9 of the casing 2. The support structure 4 can extend into the interior 3 through the insertion opening 9.

[0060] In the present embodiment, or in the sectional view shown here, three suspension elements 12a - 12c are shown. A further suspension element 12 may be present, which, however, is not visible in the sectional view shown here. The suspension elements 12 can be arranged equidistantly.

[0061] Furthermore, the supporting structure 4 comprises at least one ring element 13 on which the casing 2 is arranged. The casing 2 can be suspended from the at least one ring element 13. Consequently, the casing 2 can be very easily assembled and / or disassembled. The ring element 13 can also be a closed ring. Additionally or alternatively, the ring element 13 can also be composed of several individual ring segments. These ring segments can be spaced apart from each other or can be connected to one another. For example, hook elements can be arranged on the ring element 13, to which the casing 2 can be suspended by eyelets. As can also be seen here, the at least one ring element 13 is arranged, particularly in the radial direction of the energy exchanger unit 1, between the casing 2 and the suspension elements 12.

[0062] Furthermore, the support structure 4 of the present embodiment comprises at least one vertical strut 15 and / or at least one horizontal strut 14. These can serve to support the at least one heat exchanger 5, 6. The at least one vertical strut 15 and / or the at least one horizontal strut 14 can be connected to each other to form a framework of the support structure 4. As can be seen here, the suspension elements 12a - 12c are arranged on the at least one horizontal strut 14. The at least one vertical strut 15 is also arranged on the at least one horizontal strut 14 shown here, with two vertical struts 15a, 15b being shown here.

[0063] The at least one vertical strut 15 is thus suspended from the at least one horizontal strut 14, which in turn is suspended from the at least one suspension element 12. The at least one ring element 13 is arranged on the at least one suspension element 12, and the covering 2 is suspended from it.

[0064] The exemplary embodiment of the Figure 1 The support structure 4 also includes at least one support unit 30. This support unit 30 can be connected to at least one vertical strut 15 and / or face the base of the enclosure 7. The support unit 30 can serve to support the at least one heat exchanger 5, 6. This is shown in at least one of the following figures. The at least one heat exchanger 5, 6 can be arranged on the support unit 30. When the heat exchanger 5, 6 is arranged or placed on the support unit 30, it does not have to be coupled to the vertical strut 15, but it can be. For example, the heat exchanger 5, 6 can be coupled to the vertical strut 15 to increase stability.

[0065] According to the present embodiment, the support unit 30, which includes at least one vertical strut 15 and / or at least one horizontal strut 14, as well as at least one heat exchanger 5, 6, as shown in at least one of the following figures, are spaced apart from the enclosure 2. This prevents damage to the enclosure 2. The support structure 4 has no supports or similar elements that need to be placed on the enclosure 2.

[0066] In the Figure 1 It is further shown that the enclosure 2 is closed in at least one circumferential direction and / or can have a continuous shape. This ensures that the enclosure 2 effectively and tightly encloses the interior space 3.

[0067] Furthermore, the exemplary embodiment of Figure 1It is evident that the components located in interior 3, such as the ring element 13, the horizontal strut 14, the vertical strut 15 and / or the support unit 30, contribute to the overall stability and functionality of the energy exchanger unit 1. This arrangement leads to an optimized positioning of the at least one heat exchanger 5, 6 within interior 3, which significantly increases the efficiency of the energy transfer.

[0068] For the sake of simplicity, features already described in at least one preceding figure cannot be explained again. Furthermore, features may only be described in this figure or in at least one of the following figures. Additionally, for the sake of simplicity, the same reference symbols are used for identical features. Moreover, for the sake of clarity, not all features can be shown and / or labeled in the following figures. However, features shown in one or more of the preceding figures may also be present in this figure or in one or more of the following figures. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, features may only be shown and / or labeled in this figure or in one or more of the following figures.Nevertheless, features that are only shown in one or more of the following figures may already be present in this or a preceding figure.

[0069] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows energy exchanger unit 1 with a water heat exchanger 5 as heat exchanger 5, 6. The water heat exchanger 5 can exchange heat with the fluid, for example, water. Water can be used here because it is very inexpensive and no environmental aspects need to be considered when using water. Even if the water leaks, no environmental damage is to be expected. Alternatively, other fluids, such as glycol or brine, are also conceivable.

[0070] The water heat exchanger 5 is arranged within the interior space 3 and mounted on the support structure 4. In this assembly, the water heat exchanger 5 is advantageously suspended from the support structure 4.

[0071] According to the present embodiment, the water heat exchanger 5 is arranged between the vertical struts 15a, 15b and / or on the shut-off unit 30.

[0072] According to the present embodiment, the at least one heat exchanger 5, 6, which here is a water heat exchanger 5, comprises at least one inlet 25 and one outlet 26 for transporting heat to and / or away from the heat exchanger 5, 6. The inlet 25 and / or the outlet 26 are routed through the casing 2.

[0073] In the Figure 3 Only the supporting structure 4 of the energy exchanger unit 1 is shown, without the casing 2 and without the heat exchanger 5, 6.

[0074] According to Figure 3The supporting structure 4 includes at least one suspension element 12. In this sectional view, three suspension elements 12a-12c are again shown. These suspension elements 12 are designed to allow the installation of the energy exchanger unit 1 in a corresponding container 19. The energy exchanger unit 1 can be suspended in the container 19 by means of the suspension elements 12. It is advantageous if the suspension elements 12 form the only connection to the container 19. This prevents other structures, such as supports, from resting on the casing 2 and thereby damaging it. The energy exchanger unit 1 is suspended in the container 19 solely by means of the suspension elements 12.

[0075] Furthermore, the Figure 3The at least one horizontal strut 14 and / or the at least one vertical strut 15, which are part of the supporting structure 4. The at least one horizontal strut 14 and / or the at least one vertical strut 15 contribute to the stiffening of the supporting structure 4 and thus improve its structural integrity.

[0076] Additionally, in the Figure 3 The shut-off unit 30 can be seen, which is positioned in the lower area of ​​the support structure 4. The shut-off unit 30 serves to accommodate further components of the energy exchanger unit 1, such as the heat exchanger 5, 6.

[0077] In the Figure 4 The energy exchanger unit 1 is shown, which has two heat exchangers 5, 6. The energy exchanger unit 1 shown here includes a water heat exchanger 5, as already described in the Figure 2shown, and an air heat exchanger 6. The energy exchanger unit 1 shown includes the enclosure 2, which encloses the interior 3, and the supporting structure 4.

[0078] The water heat exchanger 5 is located within the interior space 3 formed by the enclosure 2. The shut-off unit 30 is part of the supporting structure 4 and contributes to the overall structure of the energy exchanger unit 1.

[0079] The air heat exchanger 6 is arranged above the water heat exchanger 5, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 4 This is illustrated. Furthermore, supply lines 25 and outlets 26 are provided, which support the functionality of the air heat exchanger 6. Both heat exchangers 5 and 6, namely the water heat exchanger 5, have the first supply line 25a and the first outlet 26a, and the air heat exchanger 6 has the second supply line 25b and the second outlet 26b.

[0080] In the exemplary embodiment of the Figure 4The air heat exchanger 6 also extends above the casing 2, above the inlet opening 9, above the ring element 13, above the horizontal strut 14 and / or above the vertical strut 15. According to the present embodiment, the air heat exchanger 6 also extends above the suspension elements 12.

[0081] Figure 5 Figure 1 shows an energy storage device 18 with an energy exchanger unit 1, which is at least partially arranged in a container 19. The liquid 27 in the container 19 is the storage medium that can store or release thermal energy within the energy storage device 18. The liquid 27 is, for example, water, since water is very easy to handle and no safety precautions regarding hazardous materials or the like are necessary. Furthermore, water has a high heat capacity.

[0082] The exemplary embodiment of the Figure 5Figure 1 shows the casing 2 of the energy exchanger unit 1, which is inserted and / or suspended in the container 19. The casing 2 defines the interior space 3, which holds the liquid 27. The support structure 4 of the energy exchanger unit 1, which includes, among other things, the suspension elements 12a, 12b, and 12c, is visible inside this container 19. These suspension elements 12 serve to secure, suspend, and / or position the energy exchanger unit 1 within the container 19. The energy exchanger unit 1 can be suspended in the container 19 using the suspension elements 12a–12c shown here. As can be seen, the suspension elements 12a–12c can be suspended from a container edge 28 of the container 19.

[0083] As can also be seen, the casing 2 rests against a container bottom 23 and / or the container wall 24. This is particularly the case when the liquid 27 is located inside the casing 2, since the pressure of the liquid then presses the casing 2 from the inside against the container bottom 23 and / or the container wall 24. Except for the suspension elements 12a - 12c, neither the support structure 4 nor the heat exchanger 5 otherwise has contact with the container 19. These elements, with the exception of the suspension elements 12a - 12c, are spaced away from the container 19. This is an advantage of the energy exchanger unit 1 being suspended inside the container 19, as it prevents damage to the casing 2. The casing 2 is located between the container 19 and the support structure 4 and / or the water heat exchanger 5. By hanging it, the covering 2 is protected and / or not subjected to mechanical stress from supports or similar.Furthermore, the hanging mechanism allows the energy exchanger unit 1 to be very easily prefabricated, transported and / or installed at the factory.

[0084] In the Figure 6The energy storage device 18, which includes a cover 20, is shown. According to the present embodiment, the cover 20 includes at least one air inlet opening 21 and at least one air outlet opening 22. The energy exchanger unit 1, which is inserted inside the container 19, has both a water heat exchanger 5 and an air heat exchanger 6, which serve for heat transfer. Through the at least one air inlet opening 21 and the at least one air outlet opening 22, the air heat exchanger 6 is in contact with the environment and can transfer heat to or absorb heat from the surrounding air. The two heat exchangers 5 and 6 can be in contact with each other. Additionally or alternatively, the air heat exchanger 6 can exchange thermal energy with the air, but also with the liquid 27.For example, if the water (liquid 27) has frozen due to excessive heat energy being extracted, heat energy can be extracted from the air using the air heat exchanger 6 to thaw the ice. As a result, heat energy is again available for heating, which can be extracted from liquid 27.

[0085] Furthermore, in the Figure 6 A fan 29 is shown. This fan 29 assists the movement of air through the air inlet opening 21 and the air outlet opening 22, thus increasing the efficiency of the air heat exchanger 6.

[0086] Furthermore, a roof 31 is arranged above the air inlet opening 21 to cover the air inlet opening 21.

[0087] The Figure 7Figure 1 shows a closed version of the energy storage device 18, in which, in particular, the cover 20 is closed. The cover 20 is designed in such a way that it allows it to be driven over, which indicates a robust and durable construction.

[0088] The lid 20 secures the container 19 from above and, due to its robust design, contributes to the overall functionality of the energy storage device 18. This ensures not only the safe storage of the energy exchange unit 1, but also the possibility of driving over the device, which can be advantageous in certain application scenarios. Because the energy storage device 18 is enclosed with the lid 20 shown here, it can be completely buried in the ground. The lid 20 can be designed to allow soil to be placed over it.

[0089] The one here in Figure 7The cover 20 shown, for example, is a concrete cover that can bear the load placed above it, for example if the cover 20 is driveable or if the energy storage device 18 is completely embedded in the ground.

[0090] The energy exchanger unit 1 in its various versions and / or the energy storage device 18 in its various versions shown in the figures are each oriented as they are used in their intended application. For example, the lid 20 is at the top and the storage unit 30 is at the bottom or facing the ground.

[0091] Figure 8Figure 1 shows a cross-section of the casing 2. The casing 2 is formed here by means of two layers 16, 17 that abut each other. For example, the two layers 16, 17 can be bonded together. The first layer 16 can be a film, particularly a flexible one. The second layer 17 can be a nonwoven fabric. The first layer 16 can also face the interior 3. This first layer 16 can retain the liquid 27. The second layer 17 can therefore be arranged on the outside, i.e., on the side facing away from the interior 3. When the energy exchange unit 1 is inserted in the container 19, the second layer 17 faces the container 19. The second layer 17 protects the first layer 16. Reference symbol list

[0092] 1 Energy exchanger unit 2 Enclosure 3 Interior 4 Support structure 5 Water heat exchanger 6 Air heat exchanger 7 Enclosure base 8 Enclosure wall 9 Inlet opening 10 Interior section 11 Exterior section 12 Suspension element 13 Ring element 14 Horizontal strut 15 Vertical strut 16 First layer 17 Second layer 18 Energy storage device 19 Tank 20 Cover 21 Air inlet opening 22 Air outlet opening 23 Tank base 24 Tank wall 25 Supply line 26 Outlet 27 Liquid 28 Tank rim 29 Fan 30 Shut-off unit 31 Roof

Claims

1. Energy exchanger unit (1) for an energy storage device (18) with at least one casing (2) which defines an interior space (3) and which can hold a liquid, with at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) and with at least one support structure (4) for supporting at least the casing (2) and / or the heat exchanger (5, 6), characterized by that the supporting structure (4) is at least partially located in the interior (3).

2. Energy exchanger unit according to the preceding claim, characterized by thatthe at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) and / or the casing (2) are arranged on the supporting structure (4), in particular suspended, and / or that the supporting structure (4) and / or the at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) is at least partially completely surrounded by the casing (2), and / or that the casing (2) is at least in one circumferential direction, in particular completely, closed and / or connected, and / or that in the interior (3) the at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) is arranged at least sectionally.

3. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by that the supporting structure (4) and / or the at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) are spaced apart from the covering (2) in the intended use, in particular from a covering base (7) and / or from a covering wall (8) of the covering (2).

4. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe covering (2) has an insertion opening (9) through which the support structure (4) extends into the covering (2) and / or into the interior (3), and / or that the support structure (4) has an interior section (10) and an exterior section (11), wherein the interior section (10) is arranged in the interior (3) and the exterior section (11) is arranged outside the interior (3), and / or that the covering (2) is arranged around the support structure (4), in particular around the interior section (10), and / or that the interior section (10) of the support structure (4) arranged in the interior (3) is spaced at least partially, in particular in a radial direction of the energy exchanger unit (1), away from the covering (2).

5. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe supporting structure (4) comprises at least one suspension element (12) by means of which the energy exchanger unit (1) can be suspended into a container (19) of the energy storage device (18), and / or that the at least one suspension element (12) extends through the insertion opening (9).

6. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by that the supporting structure (4) comprises at least one ring element (13) which extends at least partially in a circumferential direction of the energy exchanger unit (1) and on which the covering (2) is arranged, in particular suspended.

7. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe supporting structure (4) comprises at least one horizontal strut (14) and / or at least one vertical strut (15) on which the at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) is arranged, in particular suspended, and / or that the supporting structure (4) comprises at least one storage unit (30) on which the at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) is arranged, in particular placed, and / or that the storage unit (30) is connected to the at least one vertical strut (15) and / or faces the enclosing base (7).

8. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by that that at least one ring element (13), at least one horizontal strut (14), at least one vertical strut (15) and / or at least one storage unit (30) is arranged in the interior (3).

9. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by thatwhich is at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) a water heat exchanger (5) which is arranged in the interior (3) and / or which is arranged on the supporting structure (4), in particular suspended from it.

10. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by that the energy exchanger unit (1) comprises at least two heat exchangers (5, 6), wherein the energy exchanger unit (1) comprises at least one water heat exchanger (5) and at least one air heat exchanger (6), and / or that the air heat exchanger (6) is arranged above the water heat exchanger (5), the casing (2), the inlet opening (9), the interior (3), the ring element (13), the horizontal strut (14) and / or the vertical strut (15).

11. Energy exchanger unit according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe covering (2) is formed in two parts and / or that the covering (2) comprises at least two layers (16, 17) and / or that the at least two layers (16, 17) are bonded together in a materially bonded manner and / or that the first layer (16) of the covering (2), in particular flexible, is a film and / or that the second layer (17) of the covering (2) is a nonwoven fabric, wherein the first (16) layer faces the interior (3).

12. Use of a casing (2) for an energy exchanger unit (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the casing (2) has at least one feature relating to the casing (2) of the preceding claims.

13. Energy storage device (18) comprising an energy exchanger unit (1) and a container (19) in which the energy exchanger unit (1) is at least partially arranged, characterized by thatthe energy exchanger unit (1) is designed according to one or more of the preceding claims.

14. Energy storage device according to the preceding claim, characterized by that the energy exchanger unit (1) is suspended in the container (19) and / or that the support structure (4) of the energy exchanger unit (1) and / or the at least one heat exchanger (5, 6) of the energy exchanger unit (1) is spaced away from a container bottom (23) and / or from a container wall (24) and / or that the covering (2) rests against the container bottom (23) and / or the container wall (24).

15. Energy storage device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by thatthe energy storage device (18) comprises a cover (20) and / or that the cover (20) comprises at least one air inlet opening (21) and / or at least one air outlet opening (22) and / or that the cover (20) is closed and / or that the cover (20) is designed in such a way that it is driveable.

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