Energy Processing Systems

Abstract

An energy processing system (1) for converting, storing or transferring energy is described. The energy processing system (1) comprises a heat exchange unit (100) for exchanging heat between a first substance (110) and a second substance (120). The heat exchange unit (100) comprises a first inner compartment (130) and a second outer compartment (140) arranged adjacent to each other and separated by a heat exchange surface (150). The system also comprises a balloon (160) mounted within the first inner compartment (130) so as to form an enclosed volume (170) between an outer surface of the balloon (160) and the heat exchange surface (150) within the first inner compartment (130). The enclosed volume (170) is filled with a first material (110), the balloon (160) is configured to be filled with a balloon fluid (180), and the second outer section (140) is filled with a second material (120). The areas of the heat exchange surface (150) in contact with the first material (110) and the second material (120) remain substantially the same during the heat exchange process.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of energy processing. More specifically, the present invention relates to systems, methods and applications for energy processing, such as, for example, storing, converting or transmitting energy, thereby performing energy processing with high efficiency and low losses. [Background technology]

[0002] The consumption of energy and the demand for its production in an environmentally friendly manner have been increasing over the past decades and are expected to increase further in the coming years, especially due to global warming. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to carry out energy processes in an efficient manner and / or at low cost.

[0003] Energy processing may include one or more of a number of operations, such as expanding and / or compressing a material such as a fluid, inducing a phase transition in a material, storing a material, converting energy from one form to another (e.g., converting thermal energy to mechanical energy or vice versa), energy transfer, etc.

[0004] Although many energy processing, storage and conversion systems have been developed over the past few decades, there remains a quest for efficient energy processing systems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a good system and method for processing energy, for example storing, transmitting or converting energy. It is an advantage of embodiments of the present invention that an efficient system and method for processing energy is provided.

[0006] The above objectives are achieved by a method and apparatus according to the present invention.

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention relates to an energy processing system for converting, storing, or transferring energy. The energy processing system comprises a heat exchange unit for exchanging heat between a first substance and a second substance. The heat exchange unit includes a first inner compartment and a second outer compartment. The first inner compartment and the second outer compartment are disposed adjacent to each other and separated by a heat exchange surface. The heat exchange unit also includes a balloon attached to the first inner compartment so as to form an enclosed volume within the first inner compartment between an outer surface of the balloon and the heat exchange surface. The enclosed volume is filled with a first substance, and the balloon is configured to be filled with a balloon fluid. The second outer compartment is filled with a second substance.

[0008] The area of ​​the heat exchange surfaces in contact with the first and second substances remains substantially the same during the heat exchange process. An advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that the energy processing system is based on a unit that can be referred to as an HBVI unit (hydraulic balloon vessel interface), which is a unit that provides substantially the same heat exchange area during the heat exchange process. This particular feature results in the fact that the energy conversion system can be carried out with high efficiency, i.e. with high yield. For example, an advantage of the system according to an embodiment of the present invention is that the HBVI unit is substantially undisturbed by surfaces in contact with each other, so that little or no losses due to friction occur. Furthermore, due to the absence of friction, wear of the balloon can be reduced and / or avoided. The first inner compartment is also referred to as a vessel. In an embodiment of the present invention, when it is mentioned that the surface area of ​​the heat exchange surfaces is substantially the same during the heat exchange process, this means that the surface area of ​​the heat exchange surfaces in contact with the first and second substances changes by less than 10% (e.g., changes by less than 5%, e.g., changes by less than 2%) during at least 90% of the time of the heat exchange in the system (e.g., during 95% or 98%).

[0009] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system may further comprise a controller for controlling one of a volume of balloon fluid in the balloon or a volume of a second substance in the second outer compartment to induce heat exchange at the heat exchange surface.

[0010] The controller may be programmed to control the heat exchange process to occur under substantially isentropic, isobaric, isothermal, and / or polytropic conditions during at least 50% of the heat exchange process, advantageously at least 60% of the heat exchange process, or at least 75% of the heat exchange process, or at least 90% of the heat exchange process. An advantage of at least some embodiments of the present invention is the ability to fully control the conditions under which the heat exchange process may occur, such that a substantially isothermal, substantially isentropic, substantially isobaric, polytropic process, or combinations thereof may be selected and fully controlled.

[0011] The controller may be programmed to control the energy exchange process to occur at substantially the same temperature, i.e., isothermal. In one particular embodiment, for example, it may be possible to obtain operation of the fluid between the balloon and the container at a substantially constant temperature, which may advantageously result in a particularly efficient energy conversion, e.g., heat exchange.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the balloon may be fixed in two positions within the first inner compartment so as to form an enclosed volume but not to contact further with the walls of the first inner compartment during the heat exchange process. An advantage of the embodiments of the invention is that it allows to perform energy storage and / or energy conversion with low losses. For example, it is advantageous that the system is not based on a moving piston, since the latter introduces friction losses and does not provide a constant area of ​​energy exchange surface.

[0013] An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that the use of balloons in a container unit configured as shown in the compressor application described herein results in efficient energy conversion, with the amount of dead space in the system approaching zero and nearly the entire volume of the system being used for energy conversion.

[0014] The balloon may be pre-shaped such that when the balloon is filled, the shape of the balloon occupies most of the volume of the first inner compartment without contacting the first inner compartment except at two anchor points.

[0015] The balloon may be fixed in a pre-tensioned state. An advantage of an embodiment of the present invention is that fixing the balloon in a pre-tensioned state ensures that there is no or less contact between the balloon and the container even when filling the balloon with balloon fluid, thus allowing the area of ​​the heat exchange surface to be and remain substantially constant during the heat exchange process.

[0016] According to at least some embodiments, the heat exchange process may be controlled to take place at a pressure in the range of 1-700 bar, such as in the range of 200-700 bar, such as in the range of 200-400 bar. An advantage of embodiments of the invention is that the pressure at which the heat exchange process is controlled may be selected to result in a particularly efficient system. An advantage of embodiments of the invention is that the pressure at which the heat exchange process is controlled may be selected to result in a system that can maintain a compact size, which typically results in cost savings.

[0017] The heat exchange process can be controlled such that the maximum volume exchange of the balloon occurs in the range of 1.5-2.5 times, such as in the range of 1.75-2.25 times. The balloon can be made of a material that allows it to expand to at least 250% of its volume, such as at least 300% of its volume, such as at least 350% of its volume, such as at least 400% of its volume, without breaking.

[0018] The second outer compartment may be isolated from the outside world by an isolation tube. The isolation tube may be an isolation tube that provides an additional cavity around the second outer compartment, whereby the additional cavity may be under vacuum or filled with, for example, an isolation fluid.

[0019] To have a better heat treatment, turbulence may be created, for example, in one or more of the compartments, using, for example, an Archimedes screw. The latter results in a mixing of the heat.

[0020] The heat exchange surface may be made of a pressure-resistant material. The heat exchange surface may be made of any type of material, such as metals, for example, aluminum or steel, or composite materials, for example, carbon-based composites. The choice of material may depend on the temperature at which the process will be carried out. The embodiments of the present invention are not limited by the materials selected, as long as they are resistant to the pressures and temperatures used to carry out the heat exchange process.

[0021] The balloon fluid may be oil. The first substance may in some embodiments be a liquid, for example water.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first substance can be a supercritical gas.

[0023] The second substance may be a liquid. The second substance may be a cold or warm liquid. In some embodiments, the second substance may be a gas. The heat exchange unit may be substantially cylindrical in shape, and the first inner compartment and the second outer compartment may be configured as substantially concentric compartments. The compartments may be substantially cylindrical in shape. Alternatively, the compartments may also have any other suitable shape, such as, for example, a droplet shape.

[0024] The system may include a pump unit for controlling the volume of balloon fluid in the balloon.

[0025] In some embodiments, the heat exchange unit may be configured to allow the system to operate as a compressor.

[0026] In some embodiments, the heat exchange unit may be configured to allow the system to operate as an expander.

[0027] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in the energy processing system, the heat exchange unit may be a first heat exchange unit, the balloon may be a first balloon, and the balloon fluid may be a first balloon fluid, and the energy processing system may further comprise at least a first auxiliary balloon fluid reservoir and at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit for selectively controlling flow of the first balloon fluid from and / or to the first balloon, to and / or from the first auxiliary balloon fluid reservoir. The controller may be configured to control a thermodynamic process in at least the first HBVI by controlling the at least the first hydraulic pump / motor unit to induce different expansion and / or compression cycles in the at least the first heat exchange unit, and thus the system provides subsequent expansion and / or compression cycles to control energy processing, such as energy conversion, storage, or transfer.

[0028] The energy processing system at least a second heat exchange unit including a second container having a second balloon suspended therein, the second balloon defining a first sub-volume therein and a compartment within the second container exterior to the second balloon; a second, secondary balloon fluid reservoir; a second hydraulic pump / motor unit for selectively controlling flow of the second secondary balloon fluid to and from the second secondary balloon fluid reservoir; The first heat exchange unit and at least the second heat exchange unit may be configured such that the first heat exchange unit is fluidly connected to the second heat exchange unit to enable fluid flow therebetween under control of the first hydraulic pump / motor unit and the second hydraulic pump / motor unit.

[0029] The system may be configured to induce different thermodynamic conditions, called Kilianic conditions, in the first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit simultaneously for the fluid providing the fluid connection.

[0030] The energy processing system may include a further number of heat exchange units selectively coupled to each other, configured and controlled to direct continuous operation of the energy processing system.

[0031] The energy processing system Compressor or Expander or A domestic heat pump, wherein the controller is configured to operate in a temperature range between 0°C and 85°C; or an industrial heat pump, the controller being configured to operate in a temperature range between 40°C and 200°C; or Heat engine or a system for separating a fluid component from a fluid; Liquefaction systems or The energy storage system may be configured as one or a combination of several of the above.

[0032] In the present invention, when referring to a heat exchange unit, reference may be made to an HBVI unit.

[0033] In an aspect, the present invention also relates to a method of processing energy, comprising inducing an energy exchange process using an energy processing system as described in the first aspect.

[0034] In one aspect, the present invention also relates to a method of generating mechanical energy comprising controlling at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit to operate the above-described system as a heat engine.

[0035] In one aspect, the present invention also relates to a method of generating heat comprising controlling at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit to operate the above-described system as a heat pump. The method may include distributing the generated heat to a plurality of different homes.

[0036] In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to an energy processing system for converting, storing, or transmitting energy, the energy processing system comprising: at least a first HBVI unit including a container having a balloon suspended therein, the balloon defining a first sub-volume therein and a compartment within the container external to the balloon; at least a first auxiliary fluid reservoir; at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit for selectively controlling flow of the first auxiliary fluid to and / or from the first auxiliary fluid reservoir; The energy processing system further comprises a controller configured to control a thermodynamic process in at least the first HBVI by controlling at least the first hydraulic pump / motor unit to induce different expansion and / or compression cycles in at least the first heat exchange unit, thus providing subsequent expansion and / or compression cycles such that the system controls energy processing, such as energy conversion, storage, or transfer.

[0037] An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that it allows for an efficient and cost-effective energy processing system based on one or more HBVI units.

[0038] The controller may be configured to control at least the first hydraulic pump / motor unit to operate the system as a heat pump.An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that a heat pump can be obtained based on one or more HBVI units, resulting in an efficient heat pump system.

[0039] The controller may be configured to control at least the first hydraulic pump / motor unit to perform the conversion, storage, or transfer, at least in part, under isentropic, polytropic, or isothermal conditions.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the energy processing system comprises: at least a second HBVI unit including a container having a balloon suspended therein, the balloon defining a first sub-volume therein and a compartment within the container external to the balloon; a second auxiliary fluid reservoir; a second hydraulic pump / motor unit for selectively controlling flow of the second auxiliary fluid to and from the second auxiliary fluid reservoir; The at least first HBVI unit and the at least second HBVI unit may be further configured such that a compartment of the vessel of the first HBVI unit is fluidly connected to a compartment of the vessel of the second HBVI unit to enable flow of a third fluid between the compartments of the HBVI under control of the first hydraulic pump / motor unit and / or the second hydraulic pump / motor unit.

[0041] According to some embodiments, the controller may be configured to control the first hydraulic pump / motor unit and the second hydraulic pump / motor unit to perform the conversion, storage, or transfer under at least Killianinic conditions. Killianinic conditions or a Killianinic process may be defined as a set of conditions or processes in which steps are performed under different thermodynamic conditions in different HBVI units for fluids present in a fluid connection between at least two interconnected HBVI units.

[0042] According to some embodiments, the controller is configured to: - compressing the third fluid in the compartment of the first HBVI unit and thus inducing an energy exchange, e.g. heating of the third fluid, increasing the pressure in the compartment of the first HBVI unit to a first predetermined pressure, - transferring a third fluid from a compartment of the first HBVI unit to a compartment of the second HBVI unit by operating the first hydraulic pump / motor unit as a pump unit and operating the second hydraulic pump / motor unit as a motor unit; - allowing the third fluid to expand within the compartment of the second HBVI unit until the third fluid reaches a second predetermined temperature and a second predetermined pressure; and - transferring the third fluid from a compartment of the second HBVI unit to a compartment of the first HBVI unit by driving the second hydraulic pump / motor unit as a pump unit and driving the first hydraulic pump / motor unit as a motor unit, the process being repeatedly performed (hence referred to as a Kilianic process).

[0043] An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that by precisely controlling the first and second hydraulic pump / motor units, the processes taking place in the HBVI unit can be adjusted to obtain a selected operation of the HBVI unit.

[0044] said compressing includes compressing a third fluid in a compartment of the first HBVI unit by driving the first hydraulic pump / motor unit as a pump unit and shutting off the second hydraulic pump / motor unit, thus heating the third fluid to a first predetermined temperature; and increasing the pressure in the compartment of the first HBVI unit to a first predetermined pressure by further compressing the third fluid in the compartment of the first HBVI unit, thereby driving the first hydraulic pump / motor unit as a pump unit and shutting off the second hydraulic pump / motor unit.

[0045] An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that specific temperature and pressure conditions can be maintained in the HBVI used in the system to induce an efficient process.

[0046] Allowing the third fluid to expand includes allowing the third fluid to expand within the compartment of the second HBVI unit until the third fluid reaches a second predetermined temperature by driving the second hydraulic pump / motor unit as a motor unit and shutting off the first hydraulic pump / motor unit; and driving the second hydraulic pump / motor unit as a motor unit and shutting off the first hydraulic pump / motor unit to allow the third fluid to further expand within the compartment of the second HBVI unit to a second predetermined pressure.

[0047] Allowing the third fluid to further expand may include allowing the third fluid to further expand isothermally.

[0048] The energy processing system may be configured as a domestic heat pump and the controller is configured to operate in a temperature range between a lower limit and an upper limit. The lower limit may for example be between -10°C and +10°C, such as between -30°C and +20°C, or even between -30°C and +35°C. The upper limit may for example be between 40°C and 90°C, such as between 50°C and 85°C. Operating in this temperature range means that both the temperature at which heat is captured (source temperature) and the temperature at which heat is delivered are within this range.

[0049] The energy processing system may be configured as an industrial heat pump and the controller is configured to operate in a temperature range between 40°C and 250°C, for example between 40°C and 200°C.

[0050] At least the first and second hydraulic pump / motor units may be a closed loop hydraulic system.

[0051] The heat pump may further include third through eighth HBVIs coupled to the first HBVI and second HBVI and controlled to perform a delayed operation similar to the first and second HBVIs, and the resulting generated heat is a substantially continuous heat flow.

[0052] The controller may be configured to control the first hydraulic pump / motor unit and the second hydraulic pump / motor unit to operate the system as a heat engine.

[0053] The controller is as follows: compressing a third fluid in the compartment of the second HBVI unit, thereby increasing the pressure in the compartment of the second HBVI unit to a first predetermined pressure using a second hydraulic pump / motor unit; moving a third fluid from the compartment of the second HBVI unit to the compartment of the first HBVI unit by operating the second hydraulic pump / motor unit as a pump unit and operating the first hydraulic pump / motor unit as a motor unit; allowing the third fluid to expand within the compartment of the first HBVI unit until the third fluid reaches a second predetermined pressure; The hydraulic pump / motor unit may be configured to repeatedly move a third fluid from a compartment of the first HBVI unit to a compartment of the second HBVI unit by operating the first hydraulic pump / motor unit as a pump unit and operating the second hydraulic pump / motor unit as a motor unit.

[0054] An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that by precisely controlling the first and second hydraulic pump / motor units, the processes taking place in the HBVI unit can be adjusted to obtain a selected operation of the HBVI unit.

[0055] The system may be configured to induce different thermodynamic conditions, called Kilianinic conditions, on the fluids in the first and second exchange units simultaneously.

[0056] At least a portion of the process may be carried out under isentropic, polytropic, or chiralianic conditions. According to embodiments of the invention, specific temperature and pressure conditions may be maintained in the HBVI used in the system to induce an efficient process.

[0057] In some embodiments, the expansion can be an isothermal expansion.

[0058] The energy processing system Compressor or Expander or A domestic heat pump, wherein the controller is configured to operate in a temperature range between 0°C and 85°C; or an industrial heat pump, the controller being configured to operate in a temperature range between 40°C and 200°C; or Heat engine or a system for separating a fluid component from a fluid; Liquefaction systems or The energy storage system may be configured as one or a combination of several of the above.

[0059] The energy processing system may include a further number of heat exchange units selectively coupled to each other, configured and controlled to direct continuous operation of the energy processing system.

[0060] In one aspect, the present invention also relates to energy generated using the system described above. The energy can be heat. The energy can be either mechanical or chemical energy.

[0061] In another aspect, the present invention also relates to a method of generating mechanical energy comprising controlling at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit to operate the above-described system as a heat engine.

[0062] In yet another aspect, the present invention also relates to a method of generating heat comprising controlling at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit to operate the above-described system as a heat pump.

[0063] The method may include distributing the generated heat to a number of different homes.

[0064] While there have been continuous improvements, changes and evolution of devices in this field, it is believed that the inventive concepts represent substantial new and novel improvements which involve departures from conventional practice, resulting in the provision of more efficient (including more cost effective), stable and reliable devices of this nature.

[0065] The above and other characteristics, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. This description is given for the sake of example only, without limiting the scope of the invention. The reference figures quoted below refer to the attached drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0066] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic representation of an energy processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is an example of a hydraulic balloon-vessel interface system that may be used in an energy processing system according to embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 10A-10C illustrate cross-sectional views of different hydraulic balloon-vessel interface systems according to embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4] 14 illustrates different methods for connecting a balloon in a container in a pre-tensioned state according to embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 5] Illustrates the conditions under which operating an energy processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention results in polytropic (left), isobaric (middle image), and isothermal (right) processes. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a single HBVI based energy processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of two HBVI-based energy processing systems according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of four HBVI-based energy processing systems according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of eight HBVI-based energy processing systems according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates how a fluid / fluid interface may be used in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11]1 illustrates how a system using an HBVI can be used to function as a compressor, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1 illustrates how a system using an HBVI can be used to function as an expander, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 1 illustrates a combined compressor / expander according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] 1 illustrates a liquefaction system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] 1 illustrates a vaporization system according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] 1 illustrates an energy processing system, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] In the different drawings, the same reference signs refer to the same or similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0068] The present invention will be described with respect to certain embodiments and with reference to certain drawings but the invention is not limited thereto but only by the claims. The drawings described are only schematic and non-limiting. In the drawings, the size of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn to scale for illustrative purposes. The dimensions and relative dimensions do not necessarily correspond to actual reductions to the practice of the invention.

[0069] Moreover, terms such as first, second, third, etc. in this specification and claims are used to distinguish between similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe an order either temporally, spatially, sequentially, or in any other manner, and it will be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operating in orders other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0070] Moreover, terms such as top, bottom, upward, downward, and the like are used in this specification and claims for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to describe relative positions, and it is to be understood that such terms, when so used, are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation other than as described or illustrated herein.

[0071] It should be noted that the term "comprising" used in the claims should not be interpreted as being limited to the means recited thereafter, and does not exclude other elements or steps. It should therefore be interpreted as specifying the presence of the recited features, elements, steps or components as referred to, but without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps or components, or groups thereof. The term "comprising" therefore encompasses the situation where only the recited features are present, as well as the situation where these features and one or more other features are present. The word "comprising" according to the present invention therefore also includes, as an embodiment, the absence of further components. Thus, the scope of the expression "a device comprising means A and B" should not be interpreted as being limited to a device consisting of only components A and B. This means that, in the context of the present invention, the only relevant components of the device are A and B.

[0072] Similarly, it should be noted that the term "coupled" as used in the claims should not be interpreted as being limited to only direct connections. The terms "coupled" and "connected" may be used with their derivatives. It should be understood that these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other. Thus, the scope of the phrase "device A coupled to device B" should not be limited to devices or systems in which the output of device A is directly connected to the input of device B. This means that there is a path between the output of A and the input of B, which may be a path involving other devices or means. "Coupled" may mean that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other, but still cooperate or interact with each other.

[0073] Throughout this specification, reference to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Thus, the appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, although they may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0074] Similarly, in describing exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that various features of the invention may be grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof in order to simplify the disclosure and aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects. However, this method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, aspects of the present invention lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the detailed description are expressly incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Moreover, although some embodiments described herein include some features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the present invention and form different embodiments, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0076] Furthermore, some of the embodiments are described herein as methods or combinations of elements of methods that may be implemented by a processor of a computer system or by other means for carrying out a function. Thus, a processor with the necessary instructions for carrying out such a method or element of a method forms a means for carrying out the method or element of a method. Furthermore, the elements of the apparatus embodiments described herein are examples of means for carrying out the functions performed by the elements for carrying out the invention.

[0077] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this specification.

[0078] The present invention will now be described by detailed descriptions of some embodiments of the present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention can be constructed according to the knowledge of those skilled in the art without departing from the technical teachings of the present invention, and it is clear that the present invention is limited only by the terms of the appended claims.

[0079] In a first aspect, the present invention relates to an energy processing system. Such an energy processing system may be a system adapted for transforming energy, storing energy and transmitting energy. An energy processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises at least one heat exchange unit for exchanging heat between a first substance and a second substance. It is noted that the energy processing system may comprise more than one heat exchange unit. The energy processing system may be based on performing an expansion or compression of a fluid or may perform a plurality of operations that provide the possibility of transformation between different types of energy, such as thermal energy, electrical energy, mechanical energy, etc. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the heat exchange unit comprises a first inner compartment and a second outer compartment. The first inner compartment and the second outer compartment are arranged adjacent to each other and separated by a heat exchange surface. The heat exchange unit also comprises a balloon attached to the first inner compartment so as to form an enclosed volume between the outer surface of the balloon and the heat exchange surface within the first inner compartment. The enclosed volume is filled with a first substance and the balloon is configured to be filled with a balloon fluid. The second outer compartment is filled with a second substance. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the area of ​​the heat exchange surface in contact with the first substance and the second substance remains substantially the same during the heat exchange process.

[0080] By way of example, and not limitation, exemplary embodiments of the present invention are further discussed with reference to FIGS.

[0081] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic representation of an exemplary energy processing system 1. The energy processing system 1 is based on one or more heat exchange units 100, which may be referred to as HBVI units (hydraulic balloon vessel interface). The one or more energy exchange units 100, e.g., heat exchange units, may be used to perform compression and / or expansion of fluids used in the energy processing operations. Since heat is typically exchanged in the energy exchange units 100, the following examples and explanations may also refer to heat exchange units, but it should be noted that the invention is not limited to heat exchange and other types of energy may also be envisaged. The one or more heat exchange units 100 may be controlled by a controller 2. Such a controller may include any suitable processor. In some embodiments, such a controller may be configured to control fluids in the one or more heat exchange units to induce energy exchange, e.g., heat exchange, at a heat exchange surface of the heat exchange unit 100. The controller 2 may be programmed to control the heat exchange process to take place under substantially isentropic, isobaric, isothermal and / or polytropic conditions during at least 50% of the heat exchange process, advantageously at least 60% of the energy exchange process, or at least 75% of the energy exchange process, or at least 90% of the energy exchange process. An advantage of at least some embodiments of the present invention is that the conditions under which the energy exchange process may take place can be fully controlled, such that a substantially isothermal process, a substantially isentropic process, a substantially isobaric process, a polytropic process, or a combination thereof can be selected and fully controlled. In one embodiment, the controller 2 may be programmed to control the heat exchange process to take place under substantially the same temperature. In one particular example, for example, an operation at a substantially constant temperature can be obtained, which may advantageously result in a particularly efficient energy exchange. To control the fluids in the at least one energy exchange unit 100, the energy processing system 1 may comprise one or more pump systems 3.It should be noted that in systems according to embodiments of the present invention, specific temperature and pressure conditions may be maintained in the HBVI used in the system to induce an efficient process.

[0082] FIG. 2 illustrates an energy exchange unit that can be used in an embodiment of the present invention. The energy exchange unit 100 allows for exchanging heat between a first substance 110 and a second substance 120. The first substance can be a liquid, for example water, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the first substance can be a supercritical gas. Furthermore, an additional interface liquid can be used to avoid any kind of contamination. The latter is further explained in FIG. 10. The heat exchange unit 100 comprises a first inner compartment 130 and a second outer compartment 140. The first inner compartment 130 and the second outer compartment 140 are arranged adjacent to each other and are separated by a heat exchange surface 150. The heat exchange surface 150, which corresponds to the outer surface of the first inner compartment 130, is defined by the outer surface of the container. Since high pressures can be induced in the first inner compartment 130, the outer surface of the first inner compartment 130, i.e. the heat exchange surface 150, can typically be made of a pressure-resistant material. Such materials may be any type of material, such as, for example, metals, such as aluminum, iron or steel, such as carbon-based composites, metal composites, etc. The choice of material may also depend on the temperature at which the process will be carried out. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited by the materials selected, as long as they are resistant to the pressures and temperatures used to carry out the heat exchange process.

[0083] The container may be substantially cylindrical in shape, and the first inner compartment and the second outer compartment may be configured as substantially concentric compartments. The compartments may be substantially cylindrical in shape. Alternatively, the compartments may also have any other suitable shape, such as, for example, a droplet shape. The second outer compartment may be conformally formed with the first inner compartment. In some embodiments, the compartments may also have other shapes. FIG. 3 illustrates, by way of example and without the embodiments being limited thereto, two examples of cross-sections of a container that can be used, the first example being of a cylindrical container and the second example being of a container of an alternative shape with a larger heat exchange area.

[0084] According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the balloon 160 is attached to the first inner compartment 130 so as to form a sealed volume 170 between the outer surface of the balloon 160 and the heat exchange surface 150 in the first inner compartment 130. The balloon 160 may be made of any suitable material, such as a rubber material, compatible with the temperature range and the applied fluid. The material may be selected as a function of the temperature that may be used in the system. Advantageously, the balloon 160 is fixed in two positions in the first inner compartment 130 so as to form the sealed volume 170 but not to contact further the walls of the first inner compartment 130 (or to contact them as little as possible) during the heat exchange process. The balloon 160 may be fixed in a pre-tensioned state. By way of example, and although the embodiments are not limited thereto, four different ways of connecting the balloon to the container are illustrated. In example A of FIG. 4, the balloon is connected to the container via a ring-shaped fastening means. In example B of FIG. 4, a connection with a larger fastening area between the balloon and the container is shown. In the embodiments C and D of Fig. 4, a connection to the wider part of the container is obtained. In the embodiments C and D of Fig. 4, a connection element is used that is adapted to the container shape on one side. The connection element is provided with an introduction tube that allows the balloon fluid to be introduced from outside the container into the balloon.

[0085] The balloon 160 may typically be filled with a balloon fluid 180. The balloon fluid 180 may be oil, but embodiments are not limited thereto. The balloon fluid 180 may be pumped toward or away from the balloon 160 within the energy processing system. The balloon is configured to form a sealed volume 170 filled with the first substance 110 relative to the inner compartment. In some embodiments, the balloon may be pre-shaped so that when it expands by pumping with balloon fluid, it expands in a similar shape to the heat exchange surface. The balloon may also be pre-shaped to compensate for the gravity acting on the balloon and the balloon fluid. The heat exchange process may be controlled such that the maximum volume exchange of the balloon 160 occurs in the range of 1.5 to 2.5 times, for example, 1.75 to 2.25 times.

[0086] The second outer compartment 140, in embodiments according to the invention, is filled with a second substance 120. The second substance may be a liquid. The second substance 120 may be a cold or warm liquid. In some embodiments, the second substance may be a gas. In some embodiments, the second outer compartment 140 may be isolated from the outside world by an isolation tube 190. The isolation tube may be an isolation tube that provides an additional cavity around the second outer compartment, whereby the additional cavity may be under vacuum or filled with, for example, an isolation fluid.

[0087] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the area of ​​the heat exchange surface 150 in contact with the first material 110 and the second material 120 remains substantially the same during the heat exchange process. By providing substantially the same heat exchange area during the energy exchange process, the energy conversion system can be performed with high efficiency, i.e., high yield. When it is mentioned that the surface area of ​​the heat exchange surface is substantially the same during the heat exchange process, this means that the surface area of ​​the heat exchange surface in contact with the first material and the second material changes by less than 10% (e.g., changes by less than 5%, e.g., changes by less than 2%) during at least 90% of the time of energy exchange in the system (e.g., during 95% or 98%).

[0088] As discussed above, the energy processing system may include a controller and the heat exchange unit may be controlled to induce a heat exchange process at the heat exchange surface. The heat exchange process may be controlled to occur at a pressure in the range of 200-700 bar, for example in the range of 200-400 bar. As further discussed above, the heat exchange process may be controlled to operate a substantially isothermal process, a substantially isentropic process, a substantially isobaric process, a polytropic process, or a combination thereof. By way of illustration, and although the embodiments are not limited thereto, examples of such processes are shown in FIG. 5. In the example shown on the left side of FIG. 5, a polytropic process is shown. In the central portion of FIG. 5, an isobaric process in which the pressure can be kept substantially constant is shown. Furthermore, in the right side of FIG. 5, an isothermal process in which the temperature can be kept constant is shown. As discussed above, an advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that specific temperature and pressure conditions can be maintained in the HBVI used in the system to induce an efficient process.

[0089] In one aspect, the present invention relates to an energy processing system for converting, storing or transferring energy comprising at least one hydraulic balloon-container interface (HBVI) unit as described in the first aspect, an example of which is shown in FIG. 2, where the embodiment of the aspect is not limited thereto. The energy processing system further comprises at least a first auxiliary fluid reservoir containing a first auxiliary fluid and at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit for selectively controlling the flow of the first auxiliary fluid between the first auxiliary fluid reservoir and the balloon of the first HBVI unit. The energy processing system also further comprises a controller for controlling the at least first hydraulic pump / motor unit to repeatedly induce expansion and / or compression in the at least first HBVI unit. Thus, the system may provide different cycles of expansion and / or compression to control energy processing, such as energy conversion, storage or transfer. Apart from the specific application for energy processing, the system can also be used to evaluate the thermodynamic properties of fluids or to explore the characteristics of new types of fluids. Such different cycles may in some embodiments be performed in a single HBVI unit, whereby for example the different cycles may be performed as subsequent cycles, or in other embodiments in multiple HBVI units coupled to each other as subsequent cycles, or at least partially simultaneously. An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that an efficient energy processing system can be obtained based on one or more HBVI units. In some embodiments, the first auxiliary fluid may directly correspond to the balloon fluid, as mentioned in the first aspect. In other embodiments, where for example a small leakage of the balloon fluid leads to an undesirable, e.g. dangerous, situation, the first auxiliary fluid may also be used to control a further auxiliary fluid used as balloon fluid in the second HBVI, and thus referred to as a liquid / liquid interface or a fluid / fluid interface.

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the controller may be implemented as, for example, a microcontroller, such as a chip controller, as a special purpose processor, as a general purpose processor driven via a specific computer program product, or the like.

[0091] It should be noted that although a system with a single HBVI unit can be used, it is also possible to implement a system with multiple HBVI units, the latter of which, for example, if appropriately controlled, may result in substantially continuous operation of the system, for example as a heat engine or heat pump, as will be further described herein below.

[0092] By way of illustration, and not limitation to the embodiments of the present invention, some examples are further described below.

[0093] A first example is shown in FIG. 6, which shows an energy processing system 1 operating on the basis of a single HBVI unit 610. The HBVI unit 610 may typically be connected to a heat exchange element 612 via a circulation pump 614. In some embodiments, the outer section of the HBVI unit 610 may itself operate as a heat exchange element. The HBVI unit 610 is further connected to a hydraulic pump / motor system 620 that fluidly connects the inner part of the balloon of the HBVI unit 610 with a fluid reservoir 630. By controlling the pump / motor system 610 using a controller 640, the filling of the balloon of the HBVI unit 610 can be controlled. The latter makes it possible to induce an expansion or compression of the fluid in the space defined between the container of the HBVI unit 610 and the balloon of the HBVI unit 610. The controller 640 can be used to control the way in which the expansion or compression is performed by controlling the expansion or compression of the fluid in the space defined between the container and the balloon. The process may be controlled such that at least a portion of the energy exchange process is performed substantially isothermal, substantially isentropic, substantially isobaric, polytropic, or a combination thereof. The hydraulic pump / motor system 620 may typically be connected to an electric motor / generator system 650. Such a motor / generator system 650 may be an electric asynchronous motor / generator system, or a DC motor / generator. Depending on how the controller 640 is used to control the hydraulic pump / motor system 620, different operations may be induced in the system, and the system may be used, for example, as a heat pump or a heat engine. It is noted that further components, such as, for example, filters, valves such as an overpressure valve, a safety valve, sensors or measuring devices such as, for example, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow measuring devices, power measuring devices, etc., may be implemented in the system where appropriate, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0094] A second example is shown in FIG. 7, which shows an energy processing system 1 operating on the basis of two HBVI units 710a, 710b. Each of the HBVI units 710a, 710b may be connected to a heat exchange element 712a, 712b, typically via a circulation pump 714a, 714b. In some embodiments, the outer section of the HBVI unit 710a, 710b may itself act as a heat exchange element. Each of the HBVI units 710a, 710b is further connected to a hydraulic pump / motor system 720a, 720b that fluidly connects the inner portion of the balloon of the respective HBVI unit 710a, 710b with a fluid reservoir 730a, 730b. The controller 740 may be used to control the pump / motor system 720a, 720b to control the filling of the balloon of the respective HBVI unit 710a, 710b. The latter allows inducing an expansion or compression of the fluid in the space defined between the reservoir and the balloon of the HBVI units 710a, 710b. The controller 740 can be used to control the manner in which the expansion or compression is performed by controlling the expansion or compression of the fluid in the space defined between the reservoir and the balloon. The process can be controlled such that at least a portion of the energy exchange process is performed substantially isothermal, substantially isentropic, substantially isobaric, polytropic, or a combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the process can also be controlled such that Killianic conditions are used, i.e., the conditions described herein above. The latter can be obtained because two or more HBVI units are coupled to each other. The hydraulic pump / motor systems 720a, 720b can typically be connected to an electric motor / generator system 750. The electric motor / generator system 750 can be connected to both the hydraulic pump / motor systems 720a, 720b. Such a motor / generator system 750 can be an electric asynchronous motor / generator system. Depending on how the controller 740 is used to control the hydraulic pump / motor systems 720a, 720b, different motions, such as compression and expansion, can be induced in the system.Due to the different actions induced in the system, the system can be used, for example, as a heat pump or as a heat engine. The system may comprise an additional pump system 722 connected to a leak tank 732. The latter may be used to address leakage shortages in the fluid reservoirs 730a, 730b caused by lubrication leakage of the pump systems 720a, 720b. It is noted that an optional valve 780a of the HBVI towards the leak tank or between the optional valves 790a, 790b may also be implemented in the system.

[0095] In a further embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the system 1 described in the second embodiment is shown, but instead of using fluid reservoirs 730a, 730b, the HBVI units 710a, 710b are fluidly connected to further HBVI units 710c, 710d via pump / motor systems 720a, 720b. More specifically, they are arranged similarly to the HBVI units 710a, 710b. The HBVI units 710c, 710d may each be connected to a heat exchange element 712c, 712d, typically via a circulation pump (not explicitly shown). A controller 740 may be used to control the pump / motor systems 720a, 720b to control the filling of the balloon of the respective HBVI unit 710a, which is in fluid communication with the balloon of the HBVI unit 710d, and the filling of the balloon of the HBVI unit 710b, which is in fluid communication with the balloon of the HBVI unit 710c. In the drawings and in one envisaged application, it is also indicated for each HBVI unit whether it provides an interface with the environment at a high temperature (H) or at a low temperature (C). The environmental temperature of the HBVI is such that each of the pump / motor systems 720a, 720b can operate at one environmental temperature. The latter allows to induce an expansion or compression of the fluid in the space defined between the container and the balloon of the HBVI units 710a, 710b, 710c and 710d. The controller 740 can be used to control the manner in which the expansion or compression is performed by controlling the expansion or compression of the fluid in the space defined between the container and the balloon. The process can be controlled such that at least a portion of the energy exchange process is performed substantially isothermal, substantially isentropic, substantially isobaric, polytropic, or a combination thereof. An advantage of embodiments of the present invention is that certain temperature and pressure conditions can be maintained in the HBVI used in the system to induce an efficient process. According to some embodiments, the process can also be controlled such that Killianic conditions are used, i.e. the conditions described herein above. The latter can be obtained because two or more HBVI units are linked together.7, optional additional valves 780a, 780b are also shown between the different HBVIs. Further features of the system may be, for example, as described in the second embodiment. Such features may include, but are not limited to, additional components such as filters, valves such as overpressure valves, safety valves, sensors or measuring devices such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow measuring devices, power measuring devices, etc., may be implemented in the system where appropriate, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.

[0096] In a fourth embodiment, a system 1 is shown based on eight HBVI units as illustrated in Fig. 9. In this system, the HBVI units are also interconnected two by two to allow improved operation and to avoid the need for a liquid tank (the balloon of the HBVI can act as a liquid tank or function as an additional HBVI).

[0097] Although not shown, a pump / motor system may also be under the control of a controller to induce expansion or compression of the HBVI units, thus controlling the energy exchange process. Such a process may also be controlled to be performed as substantially isothermal, substantially isentropic, substantially isobaric, polytropic, or combinations thereof. Processing under Killianic conditions may also be envisioned since the HBVI units are coupled. In these embodiments, optional features such as valves, leakage tanks, etc. may also be added, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. It is noted that in the embodiment of the system where eight HBVI units are combined, subsequent cycles may be induced in the different HBVI units and combined to obtain a substantially continuous energy processing process.

[0098] In FIG. 9 illustrating a system 1 allowing for substantially continuous energy generation (e.g. heat in the case of a heat pump or e.g. mechanical energy in the case of a heat engine), for each HBVI unit, it is also shown whether it provides an interface with the environment at high temperature (H) or at low temperature (C). In the continuous energy conversion system shown in FIG. 9, HBVI units 710a, 710b, ... 710h as well as energy exchange elements 712a, 712b, ... 712h are shown. Other elements such as valves, hydraulic pump / motor systems, and electric motor / generator systems are also shown. Other standard and optional components may be present as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0099] The above examples generally illustrate the use of one or more HBVI units, it is understood that the number of HBVI units can be further increased as required by the energy processing application.

[0100] Furthermore, FIG. 10 shows how to introduce a fluid / fluid interface to avoid a dangerous situation where the first and second fluids may react with each other by leaking the first fluid into the second fluid. The latter may be done, for example, when the reactive fluids are only separated by a wall formed by the balloon. An embodiment of the invention implementing an additional fluid / fluid interface, for example a liquid / fluid interface, may overcome such a problem by introducing a further fluid / fluid interface, thus separating the fluids that may interact reactively with each other by a further fluid. In FIG. 10, the use of three fluids 1101, 1103, 1105 is shown, whereby the fluids 1101, 1103 that may interact reactively with each other are separated not only by a single balloon wall, but by two balloon walls and a further fluid 1105 in between. Such interfaces may be implemented in a system 1 based on an HBVI unit.

[0101] Further, by way of example, Fig. 11 shows how system 1 can operate as a compressor, thus illustrating one of the applications of the system of the present invention. In system 1 of Fig. 11, which is a schematic representation of a compressor based on two HBVI units, a first and a second HBVI unit 1210a, 1210b are shown interconnected with a pump system 1220a. The space between the vessel wall and the balloon of each HBVI unit 1210a, 1210b is controllably connected to an inlet controlled by a valve 1216a, 1216b. When a space in one HBVI unit 1210a is filled with a fluid, e.g. air, through the inlet, valve 1216a is closed and the fluid can be compressed by filling the balloon with balloon fluid using pump system 1220. The compressed fluid can then be transferred to a high pressure vessel 1290 by controlling valve 1218a. Once the compressed fluid has been transferred from the HBVI unit 1210a, a similar process may be performed in the second HBVI unit 1210b using a pump system 1220 and similar components valve 1216b and valve 1218b, thus enabling the compressed fluid to be directed from the second HBVI unit 1210b to the high pressure vessel 1290.

[0102] Also by way of example, FIG. 12 shows how the system 1 can operate as an expander, thus illustrating one of the applications of the system of the invention. In the system of FIG. 12, which is a schematic representation of an expander based on two HBVI units, a first and a second HBVI unit 1310a, 1310b are shown interconnected with a pump / motor system 1320a. The space between the vessel wall and the balloon of each HBVI unit 1310a, 1310b is controllably connected to a high pressure vessel 1390 controlled by valves 1316a, 1316b. A volume of fluid is provided to one HBVI unit 1310a, allowing it to expand. The expansion may be used to control the balloon fluid in the balloon of the HBVI unit, which may be used to operate the pump / motor system 1320a. Further valves 1318a, 1318b provide a connection between the HBVI units and the outside world. Once the compressed fluid is expanded, a similar process can be carried out in a second HBVI unit 1310b using a pump system 1320a and valves.

[0103] FIG. 13 shows the combination of an expander and compressor in a single embodiment. The compressor and expander functions are integrated into one system. Similar components are shown as in FIG. 12. Rather than having an outlet to the outside world, in this embodiment both a high pressure vessel 1390 and a low pressure vessel 1492 are shown. The system may be used, for example, as a closed system (e.g., usable with gases having specific characteristics). Such a system may be used in an energy storage system, such as a system that uses compression when there is an energy surplus and expansion when there is an energy deficit.

[0104] Figure 14 shows a liquefaction system 1 for separating a fluid obtained under high pressure in its components. The system can be used, for example, in energy reserve systems. In the system, several HBVI systems are configured in a cascade, and at each stage, the thermodynamic conditions are chosen to allow the separation of one or more components of the fluid. The latter system thus makes it possible to separate the fluid in its components.

[0105] Figure 15 shows an evaporation system 1 by combining different functions of the subsystems with HBVI units. The example evaporation system uses a system based on four HBVI units to bring a fluid at high temperature into the evaporation system. The liquid is heated in the evaporation system by contacting the liquid with the heat of the fluid at high temperature, causing the liquid to evaporate. The vapor can then be expanded in an expander.

[0106] Further by way of example, Figure 16 illustrates a system 1 for energy processing that combines the functions of a compressor and provides a source of high pressure fluid, a liquefaction system making it possible to separate the high pressure fluid in its components, a vaporizer for vaporizing at least one of these components, and an expander for expanding the vaporized component. By combining the different functions that can be obtained in a system with an HBVI unit, an efficient energy processing can be obtained. This system can also typically be used for energy storage.

[0107] Although some applications have been exemplified above, it will be apparent that these are only a few applications and other applications for energy processing can also be envisaged.

[0108] In one aspect, the present invention also relates to a method of processing energy, comprising inducing an energy exchange process using an energy processing system as described in the first aspect. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the energy exchange process may be performed in a substantially isothermal process, a substantially isentropic process, a substantially isobaric process, a polytropic process, or a combination thereof. The process may advantageously be performed in such a manner that the heat exchange surface between a first substance and a second substance in contact with said substances remains substantially equal during substantially the entire energy exchange process.

[0109] Although preferred embodiments, specific structures and configurations, and materials have been discussed herein for devices in accordance with the present invention, it should be understood that various changes or modifications in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of the invention, and steps may be added or deleted to methods described within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An energy processing system (1) for converting, storing or transmitting energy, said energy processing system (1) comprising: a heat exchange unit (100, 610, 710a, 1210a, 1310a) for exchanging heat between a first substance (110) and a second substance (120), said heat exchange unit (100) comprising a first inner compartment (130) and a second outer compartment (140), said first inner compartment (130) and said second outer compartment (140) being disposed adjacent to each other and separated by a heat exchange surface (150); a balloon (160) attached to the first inner compartment (130) to form an enclosed volume (170) within the first inner compartment (130) between an outer surface of the balloon (160) and the heat exchange surface (150), the enclosed volume (170) being filled with the first substance (110), and the balloon (160) being configured to be filled with a balloon fluid (180); the second outer compartment (140) is filled with the second substance (120); 1. An energy processing system (1), characterized in that the area of ​​the heat exchange surface (150) in contact with the first material (110) and the second material (120) remains substantially the same during the heat exchange process.

2. 2. The energy processing system (1) of claim 1, further comprising a controller (2, 640, 740) for controlling one of the volume of the balloon fluid (180) in the balloon (160) or the volume of the second substance (120) in the second outer compartment (140) to induce heat exchange at the heat exchange surface (150).

3. 3. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 2, wherein the controller is programmed to control the heat exchange process to occur under substantially isentropic, isobaric, isothermal and / or polytropic conditions during at least 50% of the heat exchange process, advantageously at least 60% of the heat exchange process, or at least 75% of the heat exchange process, or at least 90% of the heat exchange process.

4. 3. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is programmed to control the heat exchange processes to occur at substantially the same temperature.

5. 3. The energy processing system (1) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the balloon (160) is fixed at two positions within the first inner compartment (130) so as to form the enclosed volume (170) but not to further contact the wall of the first inner compartment (130) during the heat exchange process.

6. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the balloon (160) is fixed in a pre-tensioned state.

7. Energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat exchange process is controlled to take place at a pressure in the range of 200 to 700 bar, for example in the range of 200 to 400 bar.

8. 3. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat exchange process is controlled so that the maximum volume exchange of the balloon (160) is in the range of 1.5 to 2.5 times, for example in the range of 1.75 to 2.25 times.

9. 3. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second outer compartment (140) is isolated from the outside world by an isolation tube (190).

10. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the heat exchange surface (150) is made of a pressure-resistant material.

11. 3. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the balloon fluid (180) is oil and the first substance (110) is a liquid, for example water.

12. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first substance (110) is a supercritical gas.

13. the heat exchange unit is a first heat exchange unit (710a, 1210a, 1310a), the balloon (160) is a first balloon, and the balloon fluid (180) is a first balloon fluid; The energy processing system (1) at least a first secondary balloon fluid reservoir (630, 730, 732); at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit (620, 720a, 1220a, 1320) for selectively controlling the flow of the first balloon fluid to and / or from the first balloon and to and / or from the first secondary balloon fluid reservoir (630, 730a); 3. The energy processing system (1) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller (2, 640, 740) is configured to control a thermodynamic process in at least a first HBVI (100, 610, 710a, 1210a, 1310a) by controlling at least the first hydraulic pump / motor unit (620, 720a, 1220a, 1320) to induce different expansion and / or compression cycles in at least the first heat exchange unit (100, 610, 710a, 1210a, 1310a), thus providing subsequent expansion and / or compression cycles so that the system (1) controls energy processing, such as energy conversion, storage, or transmission.

14. The energy processing system (1) at least a second thermal exchange unit (710b, 1210b, 1310b) comprising a second container in which a second balloon is suspended, said second balloon defining a first sub-volume therein and a compartment within said second container outside said second balloon; a second secondary balloon fluid reservoir (730b); a second hydraulic pump / motor unit (720b, 1220b, 1320b) for selectively controlling the flow of said second secondary balloon fluid to and from said second secondary balloon fluid reservoir (730b); 14. The energy processing system (1) of claim 13, wherein the first heat exchange unit (710a, 1210a, 1310a) and the at least second heat exchange unit (710b, 1210b, 1310b) are configured such that the first heat exchange unit (710a, 1210a, 1310a) is fluidly connected to the second heat exchange unit (710b, 1210b, 1310b) to enable fluid flow therebetween under control of the first hydraulic pump / motor unit (720a, 1220a, 1320a) and the second hydraulic pump / motor unit (720b, 1220b, 1320b).

15. 15. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 14, wherein the system is configured to induce different thermodynamic conditions, called Kilianinic conditions, in the first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit simultaneously for the fluid providing the fluid connection.

16. 3. The energy processing system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the energy processing system (1) comprises a further number of heat exchange units selectively coupled to each other, configured and controlled to induce continuous operation of the energy processing system (1).

17. The energy processing system (1) - compressor or - an expander or a domestic heat pump, wherein said controller (2, 640, 740) is configured to operate in a temperature range between 0°C and 85°C, or an industrial heat pump, wherein said controller (2, 640, 740) is configured to operate in a temperature range between 40°C and 200°C, or - Heat engine or - a system for separating fluid components from a fluid, - a liquefaction system, or - an energy storage system.

18. 17. A method of generating mechanical energy, said method comprising controlling at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit to operate a system according to any one of claims 1 to 16 as a heat engine.

19. 3. A method of generating heat, the method comprising controlling at least a first hydraulic pump / motor unit (720a, 1220a, 1320a) to operate the system of claim 1 or 2 as a heat pump.

20. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the method includes distributing the generated heat to a plurality of different homes.

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