Thermal storage container, heat utilization system, and heat utilization method

Abstract

To provide a heat storage container, a heat utilization system, and a heat utilization method that are easy to handle, highly transportable, and allow for more efficient use of thermal energy. [Solution] A heat storage container (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a container (11) for containing grease and a grease stirring mechanism (12).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heat storage container, a heat utilization system, and a heat utilization method.

Background Art

[0002] As a method for utilizing low-temperature waste heat (200°C or lower) that is generated from heat sources such as factories including power generation plants and chemical plants, sewage sludge incineration plants, and waste incineration plants, and has been discarded without being used in the past, a known technology stores the low-temperature waste heat in a latent heat storage material, and transports the heat offline by vehicle to hospitals, offices, public facilities and the like that require heat for utilization.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology in which a latent heat storage material is contained in a transportable container, and a heat medium is circulated between a waste heat generation facility or a heat demand facility and the container.

[0004] Patent Document 2 discloses a latent heat storage device using a latent heat storage material, a heat medium oil having a lower specific gravity than the latent heat storage material, and a tank filled with the latent heat storage material and the heat medium oil.

[0005] Patent Document 3 discloses a mechanism including a tank in which a PCM (Phase Changing Material) and a heat transfer oil are present separately on top of the PCM.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 2

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] However, the conventional technologies described above use latent heat storage materials, which store latent heat through a complete phase change between solid and liquid. Therefore, latent heat storage materials have poor fluidity when they are in a complete solid state. Attempts have also been made to improve fluidity by encapsulating the latent heat storage material or by turning the latent heat storage material into a water slurry, but encapsulated latent heat storage materials have poor heat exchange efficiency, and water slurry containing latent heat storage materials is difficult to handle at temperatures above 100°C.

[0008] One aspect of this disclosure aims to provide a heat storage container, a heat utilization system, and a heat utilization method that are easy to handle, have excellent transportability, and can utilize thermal energy more efficiently. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The inventors of this invention, after diligently studying to solve the above problems, discovered for the first time that the above problems could be solved by using grease as a heat storage material enclosed in a heat storage container, and thus completed the present invention.

[0010] In other words, in order to solve the above problems, a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a container for containing grease and a mechanism for stirring the grease. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to one aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to provide a heat storage container, a heat utilization system, and a heat utilization method that are easy to handle, have excellent transportability, and can utilize thermal energy more efficiently. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the overall structure of the heat utilization system according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows the configuration of the heat storage container provided in the heat utilization system according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure. [Figure 3]This figure shows the configuration of a heat storage container according to Modification 1 of this disclosure. [Figure 4] This figure shows the configuration of a heat storage container according to Modification 2 of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This figure shows the configuration of a heat storage container according to Modification 3 of this disclosure. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows the processing flow of the heat utilization method implemented by the heat utilization system according to Embodiment 1 of this disclosure. [Figure 7] This diagram shows the overall structure of the heat utilization system according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] One aspect of this disclosure will be described in detail below. Unless otherwise specified in this specification, "A to B" representing a numerical range means "greater than or equal to A and less than or equal to B".

[0014] [1. Heat storage container] A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises a container for containing grease and a mechanism for stirring the grease. In this specification, the term "heat storage" means storing thermal energy. "Storing thermal energy" means accumulating thermal energy and retaining the accumulated thermal energy. In this specification, the former is also called "heat storage" and the latter is also called "heat retention".

[0015] A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure offers the advantages of being easy to handle, highly transportable, and capable of utilizing thermal energy more efficiently. These advantages are achieved by selecting grease as the heat storage material enclosed within the container of the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure. The reason for this is explained below.

[0016] First, the characteristics of grease will be described. Grease is in a gel state with extremely high viscosity when no constant shear stress is applied, such as when it is not being stirred. This gel state is a state that is just like a solid. Grease in the gel state has low thermal conductivity and hardly causes heat transfer by convection, so it is excellent in the performance of retaining thermal energy (heat retaining performance). That is, the grease in the gel state can maintain the state where thermal energy is stored.

[0017] On the other hand, grease can be brought into a sol state (liquid state) by applying a shear stress equal to or higher than a certain level through stirring or the like. By bringing the grease into the sol state, the thermal conductivity is increased, and heat transfer is caused by convection or the like, so that heat conduction can be facilitated. That is, the grease in the sol state is excellent in thermal conductivity.

[0018] In a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure, the above-described characteristics of the grease are actively utilized in each step of heat storage (the step of storing thermal energy, the step of retaining heat) and heat utilization as follows. (1) Thermal energy storage step: The grease is stirred to be brought into a sol state. Thereby, heat conduction is facilitated, and thermal energy can be efficiently stored in the grease. (2) Heat retaining step: The grease is brought into a gel state without being stirred. Thereby, the thermal energy stored in the grease can be retained. (3) Thermal energy extraction step: The grease is stirred to be brought into a sol state. Thereby, heat conduction is facilitated, and thermal energy can be efficiently extracted (heat release) from the grease.

[0019] As described above, since grease is excellent in the performance of retaining heat in the gel state, it can retain thermal energy until necessary (for example, even for a long time), and can transport the thermal energy to another place. In addition, when brought into the sol state, heat conduction is facilitated and the thermal energy can be utilized, so that the grease becomes a heat medium with higher energy efficiency as compared with a conventional simple liquid heat medium.

[0020] Furthermore, grease is a semi-solid substance, not a completely solid, and is thixotropic, meaning it is fluid. However, except for the fluid state (sol) under shear stress, its viscosity increases and it becomes gel-like. Therefore, it has a lower risk of leakage than liquids and is therefore easier to transport.

[0021] Furthermore, grease can be easily converted from a gel state to a sol state by stirring, and easily returned to a gel state by stopping stirring. In addition, grease has a wide usable temperature range, from low temperatures (e.g., -40°C) to over 200°C. For these reasons, grease offers excellent handling advantages.

[0022] Based on the above, by encapsulating grease as a heat storage material in the container of a heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to provide a heat storage container that is easy to handle, has excellent thermal energy retention capacity, is easy to transport, and can utilize thermal energy more efficiently. Such effects contribute, for example, to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, "Affordable and Clean Energy," advocated by the United Nations, and especially to the introduction of energy-saving technologies.

[0023] <Container> A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure includes a container for containing grease (referred to as the "grease-containing container"). The grease-containing container has a hollow structure and is capable of containing grease; however, its volume, shape, material, etc., are not particularly limited.

[0024] As mentioned above, grease has heat retention properties that allow it to retain stored thermal energy. However, from the viewpoint of further improving the heat retention of the grease container and reducing the loss of thermal energy stored in the grease, it is preferable that the grease container has an insulating structure.

[0025] The type of thermal insulation structure is not particularly limited, and a vacuum insulation structure can be cited as an example. For example, a container for containing grease can be made into a double-walled structure comprising a metal outer container and an inner container made of stainless steel or the like, with a vacuum insulation layer provided between the outer container and the inner container, thereby creating a container with a vacuum insulation structure. Alternatively, the container for containing grease may have a thermal insulation structure in which a conventionally known insulating material is laid between the outer container and the inner container instead of a vacuum insulation layer.

[0026] In a heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure, it is preferable that the grease-containing container is transportable. Hereinafter, "transportable" means that the installation position of the grease-containing container can be moved. The method of moving the grease-containing container is not particularly limited. For example, the grease-containing container may be lifted and moved from the installation surface (e.g., the ground, floor, etc.) by a transport mechanism such as a forklift, or it may be moved using means of transport such as casters provided on the bottom of the grease-containing container or by installing the container on a trailer.

[0027] In a heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure, it is sufficient that at least the grease-containing container is transportable, and the stirring mechanism may or may not be transported together with the grease-containing container. By configuring the stirring mechanism to be detachable from the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure, it is possible to transport only the grease-containing container.

[0028] Because the grease-containing container is transportable, heat can be utilized even when the location where thermal energy is generated and the location where thermal energy is utilized are far apart. Furthermore, because the grease-containing container is transportable, the length of the piping connecting the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure to the location where thermal energy is generated, and the length of the piping connecting the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure to the location where thermal energy is utilized, can be kept to the minimum necessary length, thereby reducing thermal energy loss in the piping section.

[0029] <Stirring mechanism> By stirring the grease with a stirring mechanism, the state of the grease in the grease-containing container can be changed from a gel state to a sol state. Conventional stirring devices can be used as the stirring mechanism, for example, a blade-type stirring device. Examples of blade-type stirring devices include propeller-type stirring devices, turbine-type stirring devices, and pitch-blade stirring devices.

[0030] Alternatively, the system may be configured to agitate the grease by suction and discharge using a pump or other pressure-feeding device. When the agitation mechanism uses a suction and discharge method, a blade-type agitator may be used in combination to supplement the agitation force.

[0031] The stirring mechanism preferably has a stirring force that can apply shear stress capable of changing the state of the grease from a gel state to a sol state. Since the magnitude of the shear stress required to change the grease from a gel state to a sol state varies depending on the type of grease, the stirring mechanism should be configured to have a stirring force that can apply the necessary shear stress according to the type of grease used.

[0032] The factors affecting the stirring force of a stirring mechanism vary depending on the stirring method employed by the mechanism; therefore, adjustments should be made according to the stirring method. For example, if the stirring mechanism is a blade-type stirring device, these factors include the shape of the blades, the angle of the blades, and the rotation speed of the blades. By appropriately adjusting these factors according to the type of grease, the required amount of shear stress can be applied to the grease through stirring.

[0033] <Other configurations> A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure may further include, in addition to the above-described configuration, a heat exchange section, a grease extraction section, a grease supply section, a forming device, and the like.

[0034] (Heat exchange part) A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure may include a heat exchange section for grease and a heat transfer medium. The heat exchange section is a part that exchanges heat between the heat transfer medium of a heat exchange device located outside the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure and the grease inside the heat storage container. For example, in one embodiment of the heat exchange section, a pipe for carrying the heat transfer medium of the heat exchange device is drawn into the container through two openings provided in the upper and lower walls or side walls of the grease-containing container, thereby providing the pipe inside the grease-containing container and making this the heat exchange section. This enables heat exchange between the heat transfer medium of the heat exchange device outside the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure and the grease. In the heat exchange section, the heat transfer medium circulates within the pipe and therefore comes into thermal contact with the grease inside the grease-containing container, but the heat transfer medium and the grease do not directly mix. The specific configuration of such a heat exchange section will be described later.

[0035] Another embodiment of the heat exchange unit is, for example, in which the heat transfer medium piping is wound around the outside of the grease-containing container, and the heat transfer medium piping and the outer surface of the grease-containing container are in thermal contact, thereby enabling heat exchange between the heat transfer medium piping and the outer surface of the grease-containing container. This makes it possible to perform heat exchange between the heat transfer medium of an external heat exchange device and the grease in the grease-containing container more easily. The specific configuration of such a heat exchange unit will be described later.

[0036] Because a heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure is equipped with a heat exchange section, the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure can be suitably used for supplying thermal energy to equipment that is already utilizing the thermal energy of a heat transfer medium.

[0037] (Grease extraction section and grease supply section) A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure may include a grease extraction unit for releasing the grease outside the grease-containing container and a grease supply unit for supplying the grease into the grease-containing container. This allows the grease inside the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure to be used as a heat transfer medium for equipment that utilizes thermal energy.

[0038] The grease extraction and grease supply sections can be realized by at least one opening provided in the upper or lower wall or side wall of the grease-containing container. The grease-containing container having at least one opening allows grease to be supplied into the container through this opening. Furthermore, the grease can be removed from the container through this opening.

[0039] Piping may be connected to the aforementioned opening. By connecting this piping to piping that carries a heat transfer medium for equipment utilizing thermal energy, the grease in the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure can be used as a heat transfer medium for the equipment. The specific configuration of the grease extraction unit and the grease supply unit will be described later.

[0040] There is no limit to the number of openings, and openings can be provided as needed. For example, a container for containing grease may have one opening that serves as both a grease supply and a grease outlet. However, by providing separate grease supply and grease outlets, the grease can be circulated between the equipment that utilizes thermal energy and the heat storage container. Therefore, it is preferable to have two or more openings in the container for containing grease.

[0041] (Forming device) A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure may further include a forming device for forming fine foam (air bubbles) in the grease within a grease-containing container to create a foamed state. The forming device can be any device capable of forming grease by mixing gas into the grease, and for example, a conventionally known forming device can be used.

[0042] Examples of gases supplied to the grease by the forming device include air and nitrogen, with air being a preferred choice.

[0043] <Grease> A heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure is capable of storing heat with grease introduced into a grease-containing container. In a heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure, the specific type of grease introduced into the grease-containing container of the heat storage container is not particularly limited. A grease composition containing a base oil and a thickener can be used as the grease for introduction into the grease-containing container of the heat storage container. In the following description, the "grease composition" may be simply referred to as "grease." Also, the "grease for introduction into the grease-containing container of the heat storage container" may be referred to as "grease for the heat storage container."

[0044] The type of base oil used in the grease for heat storage containers is not particularly limited, and any base oil commonly used in grease compositions is acceptable. The base oil may be, for example, mineral oil, synthetic oil, or a mixture of mineral oil and synthetic oil.

[0045] The type of thickener used in the grease for heat storage containers is not particularly limited, and any thickener commonly used in grease compositions may be used. Examples of such thickeners include soap-based thickeners and non-soap-based thickeners.

[0046] The soap-based thickener is not particularly limited, and examples include metal soaps such as lithium, calcium, and sodium, and metal complex soaps such as lithium, calcium, and aluminum.

[0047] Non-soap-based thickeners are not particularly limited and include, for example, urea-based thickeners such as aromatic diureas, aliphatic diureas, alicyclic diureas, triureas, and polyureas; organic thickeners such as sodium terephthalate and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE); and inorganic thickeners such as organic bentonite, graphite, and silica gel.

[0048] The thickener may be used alone or in combination of two or more. These thickeners can be synthesized by known methods.

[0049] For heat storage containers, it is preferable that the thickener is a phase-change material. Greases with a phase-change material as the thickener can store latent heat, thus improving the heat capacity compared to greases without a phase-change material as the thickener, and thus improving the amount of thermal energy that the grease can hold per unit mass.

[0050] Examples of thickeners that are phase change materials and can store latent heat include alkali metal salts of fatty acids such as lithium alkyl fatty acids and sodium alkyl fatty acids; and alkaline earth metal salts of fatty acids such as calcium alkyl fatty acids.

[0051] The lithium alkyl fatty acid is not particularly limited, and examples include lithium stearate, lithium palmitate, lithium myristate, lithium arachidinate, lithium behenate, lithium lignocerate (saturated alkyl fatty acid), lithium 12-hydroxystearate (substituted alkyl saturated fatty acid), etc.

[0052] The alkyl fatty acid sodium is not particularly limited, and examples include sodium stearate, sodium palmitate, sodium myristate, sodium arachidinate, sodium behenate, sodium lignocerate (saturated alkyl fatty acid), and sodium 12-hydroxystearate (substituted alkyl saturated fatty acid).

[0053] Alkyl fatty acid calcium is not particularly limited, and examples include calcium stearate, calcium palmitate, calcium myristate, calcium arachidinate, calcium behenate, calcium lignocerate (saturated alkyl fatty acid), and calcium 12-hydroxystearate (substituted alkyl saturated fatty acid).

[0054] The amount of thickener in the grease for heat storage containers is not particularly limited and can be the general amount found in ordinary grease. For example, the amount of thickener in the grease for heat storage containers is 3% to 50% by mass, preferably 5% to 40% by mass, when the total amount of the grease is 100% by mass.

[0055] (Second phase change materials, metals, and ceramics) The grease for the heat storage container preferably further comprises at least one of a second phase change material, a metal, and a ceramic. Here, the "second phase change material" means a phase change material that is not a thickener. The second phase change material can improve the latent heat that the second phase change material can store and thus the heat capacity of the grease, thereby further improving the amount of thermal energy that the grease can hold per unit mass. In addition, metals and ceramics can improve the heat capacity and heat transfer efficiency of the grease.

[0056] Examples of the second phase change material include the following organic phase change material (organic PCM) and inorganic phase change material (inorganic PCM). ·Organic PCM a) Paraffinic PCM (n-hydrocarbons) such as tetracosan; b) Fatty acids (such as stearic acid and palmitic acid, which are straight-chain saturated fatty acids) c) Fatty acid esters (long-chain fatty acid esters); d) Fatty acid amides (long-chain fatty acid amides); e) Alcohol-based PCMs (erythritol, mannitol, sugar alcohols); f) Organometallic salt PCM (sodium acetate trihydrate) ·Inorganic PCM a) Inorganic salt hydrates (ammonium nitrate decahydrate, magnesium sulfate heptahydrate).

[0057] The organic and inorganic PCMs mentioned above are merely examples of organic and inorganic PCMs that can be used as second phase change materials, and the organic and inorganic PCMs that can be used as second phase change materials are not limited to these.

[0058] As the second phase change material, the organic PCMs a) to e) exemplified above can be preferably used.

[0059] Preferably, the metal used has high thermal conductivity; examples include copper, aluminum, and silver.

[0060] The ceramic material is preferably one with high thermal conductivity, such as alumina, silicon nitride, boron nitride, or aluminum nitride.

[0061] From the viewpoint of suppressing wear of the grease-containing container by the metal and ceramics and the dispersibility of the metal and ceramics in the grease, it is preferable that the metal and ceramics be in powder or granular form.

[0062] The grease for the heat storage container may contain at least one of the second phase change material, metal, and ceramic, from the viewpoint of improving the heat capacity and heat transfer efficiency of the grease. It may also contain two of these in combination, or it may contain all three of the second phase change material, metal, and ceramic. When combining two from the group consisting of the second phase change material, metal, and ceramic, the combination is not particularly limited.

[0063] The total content of the second phase change material, metal, and ceramic in the heat storage container grease is not particularly limited and can be appropriately adjusted within a range that does not impair the effects of the present invention and provides the effects obtained by including them. For example, when the total amount of the grease is 100% by mass, the content may be 1% by mass or more, 5% by mass or more, or 10% by mass or more.

[0064] There are no particular restrictions on the melting temperature of the grease for heat storage containers. As long as the melting temperature of the grease is higher than the temperature required by the object to which the heat is ultimately applied, a heat storage container grease with an appropriate melting temperature should be selected according to the temperature required by the object to which the heat is ultimately applied.

[0065] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of improving the heat retention performance of the heat storage container grease, it is preferable that the heat storage container grease be in the form of foam. By foaming the grease to form a foam and interposing gas (e.g., air) within the grease, the thermal conductivity of the gel-like grease can be further reduced, thus providing superior heat retention performance for foamed grease. The method for preparing foamed grease is not particularly limited; for example, foamed grease can be obtained by vigorously stirring the grease or by blowing air into the grease. The heat storage container grease may be prepared in the form of foam before being introduced into the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure, or it may be foamed as needed after being introduced into the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure by a foaming device that the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure may optionally be provided with.

[0066] (Preferred example of grease for heat storage containers) The grease for the heat storage container is preferably one having at least one of the following configurations 1) to 4). 1) The thickener is a phase change material; 2) The melting temperature is higher than the temperature required by the object to which the heat is ultimately transferred; 3) Contains at least one of a second phase change material, a metal, and a ceramic; 4) It is in a foamy form.

[0067] While preferred examples of grease for heat storage containers have been given, the grease for heat storage containers should be appropriately selected according to the application of the heat storage container disclosed herein. The specific configuration of the heat storage container disclosed herein will be described later, but the heat storage container disclosed herein is designed so that the user can introduce the heat storage container grease into the heat storage container when using it, and after introduction, it is also possible to replace it with a different type of heat storage container grease as needed. In this way, the heat storage container disclosed herein allows for the selection and use of a heat storage container grease according to the application of the heat storage container disclosed herein from among the wide variety of greases mentioned above, thus providing a high degree of freedom in selecting the heat storage material and enabling it to meet the diverse requirements that arise in each situation in which the heat storage container disclosed herein is used.

[0068] <Uses of heat storage containers> There are no particular restrictions on the use of the heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure; for example, it can be used as a heat storage container for transport, for long-term heat retention, etc.

[0069] [2. Heat utilization systems] A heat utilization system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a heat storage unit for storing heat in the grease in the heat storage container, and a heat utilization unit for utilizing the thermal energy of the grease taken out from the heat storage container.

[0070] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a heat utilization system and a heat utilization method can be provided that include a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure, which is easy to handle, easy to transport, and allows for more efficient use of thermal energy.

[0071] The following describes the various components of the heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure. The heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure is as described above.

[0072] <Thermal storage unit> A heat storage unit is a unit that stores thermal energy in grease within a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure. The heat storage unit performs a heat storage process that stores thermal energy in grease within a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure. Herein, in this specification, "unit" means an assembly of multiple devices and parts configured to have a predetermined function as a single assembly. For example, "heat storage unit" means an assembly of multiple devices and parts configured to have the function of storing heat in grease within a heat storage container according to the present disclosure. Furthermore, a "heat utilization unit" described later means an assembly of multiple devices and parts configured to have the function of extracting thermal energy from grease within a heat storage container according to the present disclosure and utilizing the extracted thermal energy.

[0073] (heat source) In a heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure, the heat storage unit includes at least a heat source that generates heat. The type of heat source included in the heat storage unit is not particularly limited. Examples of heat sources include steam boilers, heating furnaces, distillation columns, chemical reactors, combustion furnaces, fermentation tanks, pyrolysis furnaces, and incinerators. According to the heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure, surplus thermal energy generated in the heat source can be stored and utilized efficiently.

[0074] Furthermore, the type of equipment, facility, or location where the heat storage unit is installed is not particularly limited. Any equipment, facility, or location having the heat supply source described above is included as an example, such as factories, sewage sludge incineration plants, and waste incineration plants. The type of factory is not particularly limited, and examples include power plants (e.g., thermal power plants, hydroelectric power plants, nuclear power plants, etc.) and chemical plants (e.g., oil refineries, petrochemical plants, biofuel manufacturing plants, etc.).

[0075] Furthermore, the type of heat transfer medium supplied from the heat source is not particularly limited. Examples of such heat transfer mediums include steam (water), oil, and air.

[0076] (Other configurations) In addition to the configuration described above, the heat storage unit may further include a heat exchanger. When the heat storage unit includes a heat exchanger, it is preferable that it includes at least piping for circulating a heat transfer medium between the heat supply source and the heat exchanger (first piping), and piping for circulating a heat transfer medium or grease between the heat exchanger and the heat storage container (second piping). Furthermore, a pressure feeder for circulating the heat transfer medium may be provided in these pipes as needed. This makes the heat storage container of this disclosure suitably usable for applications that receive and store heat from existing facilities equipped with a heat supply source and a heat exchanger.

[0077] Conventional heat exchange devices can be used as heat exchangers, including, for example, liquid-cooled heat exchangers, double-tube heat exchangers, shell-and-tube heat exchangers, and plate-type heat exchangers.

[0078] In a heat storage unit, the heat transfer medium circulating between the heat exchanger and the heat storage container can be the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger, and examples include heat transfer oil, grease, steam, water, and air.

[0079] A conventionally known pump can be used as the pumping device. The pump may be a manual pump or an electric pump. The pump can be appropriately selected to have suitable performance (e.g., discharge rate, head, etc.) depending on the scale of the heat storage unit.

[0080] The piping can be made of hollow tubes through which a heat transfer medium can flow. There are no particular restrictions on the material, diameter, or shape of the piping, and these can be selected as appropriate. The material of the piping can preferably be selected from, for example, steel, copper, aluminum, or stainless steel. The length of the piping can be selected appropriately according to the scale of the heat storage unit.

[0081] <Heat utilization unit> The heat utilization unit is a unit that utilizes the thermal energy of grease extracted from a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure. The heat utilization unit performs a step of extracting the thermal energy stored in the grease of a heat storage container according to one aspect of the present disclosure, and a heat utilization step of utilizing the extracted thermal energy.

[0082] (For use in heat utilization) In a heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure, the heat utilization unit includes at least a heat utilization target that utilizes thermal energy extracted from a heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure. The type of heat utilization target included in the heat utilization unit is not particularly limited. Examples of heat utilization targets include all devices that require heating, such as steam boilers, hot water generators, and heating devices.

[0083] Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the type of equipment, facility, or location where a heat utilization unit is installed. Examples of equipment, facilities, or locations where a heat utilization unit is installed include any equipment, facility, or location that has the aforementioned heat utilization targets, such as factories; and facilities that do not have heat sources (e.g., hospitals, offices, public facilities (e.g., schools)).

[0084] Furthermore, the type of heat transfer medium that provides heat to the heat source is not particularly limited. Examples of such heat transfer mediums include steam (water), oil, and air.

[0085] (Other configurations) In addition to the above-described configuration, the heat utilization unit may or may not include a heat exchanger. If the heat utilization unit includes a heat exchanger, it is preferable that it includes at least piping for circulating the heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger and the heat storage container (third piping), and piping for circulating the heat transfer medium between the heat utilization target and the heat exchanger (fourth piping). Furthermore, a pressurizing device for circulating the heat transfer medium may be provided in these pipes as needed. This makes the heat storage container of this disclosure suitably usable for supplying heat to equipment that is already utilizing the heat of a heat transfer medium.

[0086] In the heat utilization unit, the heat transfer medium circulating between the heat exchanger and the heat storage container of this disclosure can be the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger, and examples include heat transfer oil, grease, steam, water, air, etc.

[0087] On the other hand, a heat utilization unit does not necessarily have to include a heat exchanger. For example, this occurs when the heat utilization target directly utilizes the thermal energy stored in the grease, that is, when the heat utilization target directly utilizes the grease as a heat transfer medium. In this case, it is preferable to have at least piping (the fifth piping) for circulating the grease between the heat utilization target and the heat storage container. Furthermore, the fifth piping may be provided with a pressure feeding device for circulating the grease as needed. The heat exchanger, pressure feeding device, and piping are as described for the heat storage unit.

[0088] <Distance between the heat storage unit and the heat utilization unit> There are no particular restrictions on the distance between the location where the heat storage unit is installed and the location where the heat utilization unit is installed. The heat storage container according to one aspect of this disclosure has excellent heat retention performance in retaining the stored thermal energy, so even if the distance between these locations is large, the loss of thermal energy during the transportation of the heat storage container can be reduced, and thermal energy can be utilized efficiently. The transportation of the heat storage container between the heat storage unit and the heat utilization unit can be carried out by selecting the means of transport according to the distance between the two points, for example, by transporting mechanisms such as forklifts and belt conveyors; or by transport vehicles such as trucks and trailers.

[0089] [Embodiment 1] Below, a heat utilization system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the overall structure of the heat utilization system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the heat storage container 1 provided in the heat utilization system 100 according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure. In Figures 1 and 2, for the sake of explanation, the heat storage container 1 is shown in a cross-sectional view along the longitudinal direction of the horizontally elongated container 11 provided in the heat storage container 1. Furthermore, since the heat storage container 1 can store heat by introducing grease G1 into the container 11, Figures 1 and 2 show the state in which the grease G1 is contained within the container 11 of the heat storage container 1.

[0090] As shown in Figure 1, the heat utilization system 100 comprises a heat storage container 1, a heat storage unit 2, and a heat utilization unit 3.

[0091] The following describes each component of the heat utilization system 100. Since each component of the heat utilization system 100 is a component of each component of the heat utilization system described above in relation to one aspect of this disclosure, detailed explanations will follow the descriptions of those components, and the same explanations will not be repeated.

[0092] (Heat storage container 1) As shown in Figure 1, the heat storage container 1 includes a container 11 for containing grease G1 and a grease stirring mechanism 12.

[0093] As shown in Figure 2, the container 11 has a space inside for containing grease G1. A heat exchange section 13 is installed inside the container 11. The heat exchange section 13 is composed of piping through which the heat transfer medium of the heat exchange device 22 or 32 can pass. Each end of the piping of the heat exchange section 13 is connected to openings 14 and 15 provided in the upper and lower walls of the container 11, respectively. Each of the openings 14 and 15 has a lid (not shown), and when the heat storage container 1 is not connected to the heat storage unit 2 or the heat utilization unit 3, the openings 14 and 15 are closed by the lid. A known sealing member such as a packing may be provided at the part where the lid and the opening 14 or opening 15 are in contact to improve airtightness when the openings 14 and 15 are closed by the lid.

[0094] As shown in Figure 2, the stirring mechanism 12 is, for example, a propeller-type stirring device, and mainly consists of a stirring shaft 122 that extends vertically and serves as the axis of rotation for stirring, a stirring blade 123 installed inside the container 11 and attached to the lower end of the stirring shaft 122, and an external motor 121 installed outside the container 11 and connected to the upper end of the stirring shaft 122.

[0095] When using the stirring mechanism 12, the stirring shaft 122 rotates around its axis when the external motor 121 is driven, and the stirring blade 123 rotates inside the container 11 as a result of the rotation of the stirring shaft 122, thereby stirring the grease G1.

[0096] (Heat storage unit 2) As shown in Figure 1, the heat storage unit 2 includes a heat supply source 21 and a heat exchanger 22. The heat supply source 21 and the heat exchanger 22 are connected by a first pipe 23. The first pipe 23 is for circulating a heat transfer medium between the heat supply source 21 and the heat exchanger 22. In the heat utilization system 100, water is used as the heat transfer medium and is circulated between the heat supply source 21 and the heat exchanger 22.

[0097] The first piping 23 includes piping 231 and piping 232. Piping 231 is for sending waste steam (a heat transfer medium containing thermal energy) generated in the heat supply source 21 to the heat exchanger 22. Piping 232 is for returning the water that has been cooled by the removal of thermal energy in the heat exchanger 22 back to the heat supply source 21.

[0098] Furthermore, a second pipe 24 is connected to the heat exchanger 22. The second pipe 24 connects the heat exchanger 22 to the heat storage container 1 and circulates the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger 22 between the heat exchanger 22 and the heat storage container 1. The second pipe 24 includes pipe 241 and pipe 242. Pipe 241 is for sending the heat transfer medium (heat transfer medium possessing thermal energy) that has received thermal energy from waste steam through heat exchange to the heat exchange section 13 (Figure 2) of the heat storage container 1. Pipe 242 is for returning the heat transfer medium, which has been cooled by heat exchange with grease G1 in the heat exchange section 13 (Figure 2), back to the heat exchanger 22. A pump 25 is provided in the middle of pipe 242, allowing the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger 22 to circulate between the second pipe 24 and the heat exchange section 13 (Figure 2).

[0099] When connecting the heat storage container 1 to the heat storage unit 2, as shown in Figure 2, the end 2411 of the pipe 241 is connected to the opening 14 of the heat storage container 1, and the end 2421 of the pipe 242 is connected to the opening 15 of the heat storage container 1.

[0100] By connecting the heat exchange section 13 (Figure 2) of the heat storage container 1 to the second pipe 24, it becomes possible to supply thermal energy to the heat storage container 1 from existing equipment equipped with a heat supply source 21.

[0101] (Heat utilization unit 3) As shown in Figure 1, the heat utilization unit 3 includes a heat utilization target 31 and a heat exchanger 32. A third pipe 36 is connected to the heat exchanger 32. The third pipe 36 connects the heat storage container 1 to the heat storage container 1 and circulates the heat transfer medium of the heat exchanger 32 between the heat storage container 1 and the heat storage container 1.

[0102] The third piping 36 includes piping 361 and piping 262. Piping 361 is for returning the heat transfer medium (heat transfer medium possessing thermal energy), which has received thermal energy from the grease G1 through heat exchange with the heat exchange section 13 (Figure 2), to the heat exchange device 32. Piping 262 is for sending the heat transfer medium, which has been cooled by the removal of thermal energy in the heat exchange device 32, back to the heat exchange section 13 (Figure 2). A pump 37 is provided in the middle of piping 361, allowing the heat transfer medium of the heat exchange device 32 to circulate between the third piping 36 and the heat exchange section 13 (Figure 2).

[0103] When connecting the heat storage container 1 to the heat utilization unit 3, as shown in Figure 2, the end 3611 of the piping 361 is connected to the opening 14 of the heat storage container 1, and the end 3621 of the piping 362 is connected to the opening 15 of the heat storage container 1.

[0104] By connecting the heat exchange section 13 of the heat storage container 1 to the third pipe 36, it becomes possible to supply thermal energy from the heat storage container 1 to existing equipment equipped with a heat utilization target 31. For example, if the heat exchange device 32 is a steam boiler in existing equipment, it becomes possible to use the thermal energy stored in the heat storage container 1 to heat the water, which is the heat transfer medium of the steam boiler, and generate steam, instead of using the burner in the steam boiler. This not only makes effective use of the heat from waste steam, but also leads to a reduction in fossil fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions caused by the use of burners.

[0105] Furthermore, the heat exchanger 32 and the heat utilization target 31 are connected by a fourth pipe 33. The fourth pipe 33 is for circulating the heat transfer medium between the heat exchanger 32 and the heat utilization target 31. In the heat utilization system 100, water is used as the heat transfer medium and circulated between the heat utilization target 31 and the heat exchanger 32. The heat exchanger 32 uses the thermal energy received from the grease to heat the water and generate steam, which is then used in the heat utilization target 31.

[0106] The fourth piping 33 includes piping 331, piping 332, and piping 333. Piping 331 is for sending steam (a heat transfer medium containing thermal energy) generated by heating water in the heat exchanger 32 to the heat utilization target 31. Piping 332 is for returning the water (condensate) that has been cooled after the thermal energy has been removed (utilized) in the heat utilization target 31 to the feedwater tank 35. Piping 333 is for sending water from the feedwater tank 35 to the heat exchanger 32. A pump 34 is installed in the middle of piping 333, allowing the water, which is the heat transfer medium, to circulate between the heat utilization target 31 and the heat exchanger 32.

[0107] (Process flow of the heat utilization method implemented by the heat utilization system 100) Next, with reference to Figures 1 and 6, the processing flow of the heat utilization method implemented by the heat utilization system 100 will be explained. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the processing flow by the heat utilization system 100.

[0108] (Heat storage process) First, in the heat storage process S1, the heat storage container 1 is connected to the heat storage unit 2, and the circulation of the heat transfer medium between the heat storage container 1 and the heat storage unit 2 is started. Next, the grease in the container 11 of the heat storage container 1 is stirred by the stirring mechanism 12 to create a sol state, thereby transferring the thermal energy of the waste steam generated in the heat supply source 21 to the grease stored in the container 11. During the heat storage process S1, the stirring of the grease is continued to maintain the sol state. After the completion of the heat storage process S1, the connection between the heat storage container 1 and the heat storage unit 2 is disconnected, and the stirring of the grease by the stirring mechanism 12 is stopped, causing the grease to return to a gel state.

[0109] (Conveying process) Next, in the transport process S2, the heat storage container 1 after the heat storage process S1 is transported to the location where the heat utilization unit 3 is located.

[0110] (Heat removal process) Next, in the heat extraction process S3, the heat storage container 1 is connected to the heat utilization unit 3, and the circulation of the heat transfer medium between the heat storage container 1 and the heat utilization unit 3 is started. Then, the grease in the container 11 of the heat storage container 1 is stirred by the stirring mechanism 12 to create a sol state, thereby transferring the thermal energy stored in the grease in the heat storage container 1 to the heat transfer medium of the heat utilization target 31 (heat extraction). The extracted thermal energy is utilized by the heat utilization target 31. During the heat extraction process S3, the stirring of the grease is continued to maintain the sol state. After the completion of the heat extraction process S3, the connection between the heat storage container 1 and the heat utilization unit 3 is disconnected, and the stirring of the grease by the stirring mechanism 12 is stopped, causing the grease to return to a gel state.

[0111] In the heat utilization system 100, the heat storage process S1 and the heat extraction process S3 are repeated as needed. Between the heat storage process S1 and the transport process S2, or between the transport process S2 and the heat extraction process S3, a storage process may be performed in which the heat storage container 1 containing the stored thermal energy is stored for a predetermined period of time.

[0112] <Example 1> The above description uses an example of a configuration using ordinary, unformed grease, but this is not limited to this embodiment.

[0113] Figure 3 shows the configuration of the heat storage container 1a according to Modification 1. In Figure 3, the container 11 of the heat storage container 1a contains foamed grease G2. As shown in Figure 3, the heat storage container 1a may also be configured to include a forming device 16. This allows the grease to be formed into a foam.

[0114] By interposing a gas (e.g., air) in the grease, the thermal conductivity of the grease can be further reduced. Therefore, the timing for forming the grease in the container 11 by the forming device 16 is preferably when the grease is in a sol state during the heat storage process. Consequently, it is preferable to further form the grease during the heat storage process. This further enhances the heat retention performance of the grease.

[0115] <Modification 2> The above description uses an example of a configuration in which the heat storage container has a heat exchange section inside, but this is not limited to this embodiment.

[0116] Figure 4 shows the configuration of the heat storage container 1b according to the modified example 2. As shown in Figure 4, the heat storage container 1b may be equipped with a grease supply unit 17 and a grease extraction unit 18 instead of the heat exchange unit 13.

[0117] The grease supply section 17 and the grease outlet section 18 are configured as openings provided in the upper and lower walls of the container 11, respectively.

[0118] When connecting the heat storage container 1b to the heat storage unit 2, the opening (grease supply section) 17 is connected to the end 2411 of the piping 241, and the opening (grease outlet section) 18 is connected to the end 2421 of the piping 242. This allows the heat exchanger 22 to directly exchange heat between water and grease.

[0119] Furthermore, when connecting the heat storage container 1b to the heat utilization unit 3, the opening (grease outlet) 17 is connected to the end 3611 of the piping 361, and the opening (grease supply) 18 is connected to the end 3621 of the piping 362. This allows the heat exchanger 32 to directly exchange heat between water and grease.

[0120] <Variation 3> Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the configuration of the heat storage container 1c according to Modification 3. As shown in Figure 5, the piping of the heat exchange section 13a may be wound around the outside of the container 11a of the heat storage container 1c.

[0121] When connecting the heat storage container 1c to the heat storage unit 2, the end 2411 of pipe 241 is connected to the end 14a of the piping of the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c, and the end 2421 of pipe 242 is connected to the end 15a of the piping of the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c. By connecting the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c to the second pipe 24, the heat transfer medium (heat transfer medium possessing thermal energy) that has received thermal energy from waste steam through heat exchange can be sent to the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c. The piping of the heat exchange section 13a is in thermal contact with the outer surface of the container 11a. This allows the thermal energy of the heat transfer medium to be transferred to the grease inside the container 11a through heat exchange.

[0122] Furthermore, when connecting the heat storage container 1c to the heat utilization unit 3, the end 3611 of pipe 361 is connected to the end 14a of the piping of the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c, and the end 3621 of pipe 362 is connected to the end 15a of the piping of the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c. By connecting the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c to the third pipe 36, the heat transfer medium of the heat exchange device 32 (Figure 1) can be sent to the heat exchange section 13a of the heat storage container 1c, making it possible to supply thermal energy from the heat storage container 1c to existing equipment equipped with a heat utilization target 31 (Figure 1).

[0123] Furthermore, the heat storage container 1c is equipped with an insulating structure 19 that covers the outermost part of the container 11a. For the sake of clarity, the insulating structure 19 is shown in cross-sectional view. As mentioned above, since grease has heat retention properties that allow it to retain stored thermal energy, the heat storage container 1c may or may not be equipped with an insulating structure 19. However, from the viewpoint of further improving the heat retention of the container 11a (grease-containing container) and further reducing the loss of thermal energy stored in the grease, it is preferable that the heat storage container 1c is equipped with an insulating structure 19 that covers the outermost part of the container 11a.

[0124] The type of thermal insulation structure 19 is not particularly limited, and for example, a vacuum thermal insulation structure can be mentioned. For example, the container 11a and the heat exchange section 13a can be further covered with a container having a vacuum thermal insulation structure. The thermal insulation structure 19 may also be a thermal insulation structure in which a conventionally known thermal insulation material is laid instead of a vacuum thermal insulation layer.

[0125] <Modification 4> In the above description, an example was given of a configuration in which the heat exchange section 13 has a U-shaped external appearance, but this is not limited to this embodiment.

[0126] There are no restrictions on the shape of the heat exchange section 13. For example, the piping of the heat exchange section 13 may be bent in a meandering shape, or it may be wound in a spiral shape. By making the piping of the heat exchange section 13 meandering, wound, etc., the heat transfer area of ​​the heat exchange section 13 can be increased, and the heat exchange efficiency of the heat exchange section 13 can be improved.

[0127] [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to Figures 4 and 7. For the sake of clarity, components having the same function as those described in Embodiment 1 will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0128] Figure 7 is a diagram showing the overall structure of the heat utilization system 200 according to Embodiment 2 of this disclosure. When describing the heat utilization system 200 with reference to Figure 4, the reference numerals 241, 2411, 242, and 2421 in Figure 4 shall be read as 421, 4211, 422, and 4221, respectively, and the reference numerals 361, 3611, 362, and 3621 shall be read as 521, 5211, 522, and 5221, respectively.

[0129] Of the various components of the heat utilization system 200, the components other than the heat storage unit 4 and the heat utilization unit 5 are the same as those of the heat utilization system 100 according to Embodiment 1, so their explanation is omitted here.

[0130] As shown in Figure 7, the heat storage unit 4 includes a heat supply source 41, and the heat supply source 41 is provided with a fifth pipe 42 connected to the heat storage container 1b (Figure 4) for circulating grease between the heat storage container 1b and the heat supply source 41. As shown in Figure 4, the fifth pipe 42 includes pipe 421 and pipe 422. Pipe 422 is for sending the grease G1 from the heat storage container 1b to the heat supply source 41. Pipe 421 is for sending the grease G1, which has been heated by the heat energy supplied by the heat supply source 41, to the heat storage container 1b (Figure 4). A pump 43 is provided in the middle of pipe 422, enabling the grease G1 from the heat storage container 1b to circulate between the heat storage container 1b and the heat supply source 41.

[0131] When connecting the heat storage container 1b to the heat storage unit 4, the opening (grease supply section) 17 should be connected to the end 4211 of the pipe 421, and the opening (grease outlet section) 18 should be connected to the end 4221 of the pipe 422.

[0132] Furthermore, the heat utilization unit 5 includes a heat utilization target 51, and the heat utilization target 51 is provided with a sixth pipe 52 connected to the heat storage container 1b (Figure 4) for circulating grease between the heat utilization unit 5 and the heat storage container 1b. As shown in Figure 4, the sixth pipe 52 includes pipe 521 and pipe 522. Pipe 521 is for sending the grease G1 from the heat storage container 1b to the heat utilization target 51. Pipe 522 is for sending the grease G1, which has been cooled by the removal of thermal energy in the heat utilization target 51, back to the heat storage container 1b (Figure 4). A pump 53 is provided in the middle of pipe 521, enabling the grease G1 from the heat storage container 1b to circulate between the heat storage container 1b and the heat utilization target 51.

[0133] When connecting the heat storage container 1b to the heat utilization unit 5, the opening (grease outlet) 17 should be connected to the end 5211 of the piping 521, and the opening (grease supply) 18 should be connected to the end 5221 of the piping 522.

[0134] According to the heat utilization system 200, the thermal energy stored in the grease G1 of the heat storage container 1b can be directly utilized by the heat utilization target 51, enabling even more efficient heat utilization.

[0135] In addition, in the heat utilization system 200, it is possible to use the heat storage container 1 of Embodiment 1, the heat storage container 1a of Modification 1, or the heat storage container 1c of Modification 3, in addition to the heat storage container 1b of Modification 2 of Embodiment 1. In this case, the heat transfer medium of the heat supply source 41 or the heat utilization target 51 should be circulated between the heat storage unit 4 or the heat utilization unit 5 and the heat storage container 1b. The effects of using each heat storage container are as described in Embodiment 1.

[0136] Furthermore, in a heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure, the combination of the heat storage unit and the heat utilization unit is not limited to the combinations exemplified in Figures 1 and 7. For example, as another embodiment of the heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure, the heat storage unit 2 shown in Figure 1 may be combined with the heat utilization unit 5 shown in Figure 7, or the heat storage unit 4 shown in Figure 7 may be combined with the heat utilization unit 3 shown in Figure 1.

[0137] [3. Heat utilization method] A heat utilization method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a heat storage step of accumulating heat in grease stored in a container, and a heat extraction step of extracting the heat stored in the grease by stirring the grease into a sol, and the heat storage step and the heat extraction step are repeated. According to a heat utilization method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a heat utilization method that is easy to handle, has excellent transportability, and can utilize thermal energy more efficiently.

[0138] A heat utilization method according to one aspect of this disclosure may be implemented by a heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure as described above. The implementation of this method by a heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure is as described above.

[0139] A heat utilization method according to one aspect of this disclosure can also be implemented without a heat utilization system according to one aspect of this disclosure. In this case, the method may be implemented using the heat storage container of this disclosure, or without using the heat storage container of this disclosure. Examples of implementing the method without using the heat storage container of this disclosure include storing grease in a simple container and attaching an external stirring means, etc., or circulating it externally with a pump.

[0140] In a heat utilization method according to one aspect of this disclosure, there is no particular limit on the number of times the heat storage process and the heat extraction process are repeated; the number of repetitions can be selected as needed. In a heat utilization method according to one aspect of this disclosure, the heat storage process and the heat extraction process can be repeated as long as the grease does not deteriorate.

[0141] Furthermore, a heat utilization method according to one aspect of the present disclosure may include a transport step between the heat storage step and the heat extraction step, in which the container is transported from the location where the heat storage step is performed to the location where the heat extraction step is performed.

[0142] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure.

[0143] 〔summary〕 A heat storage container according to Embodiment 1 of the present disclosure comprises a container for containing grease and a mechanism for stirring the grease.

[0144] This makes it possible to provide a heat storage container that is easy to handle, highly transportable, and allows for more efficient utilization of thermal energy.

[0145] The heat storage container according to aspect 2 of the present invention may be configured to include a heat exchange section between the grease and the heat transfer medium in the above-described aspect 1.

[0146] This makes it possible to suitably use the heat storage container according to embodiment 2 of the present invention for supplying heat to equipment that is already utilizing the heat of a heat transfer medium.

[0147] The heat storage container according to embodiment 3 of the present invention may be configured to include, in embodiment 1 above, a grease removal unit for removing the grease from the container and a grease supply unit for supplying the grease into the container.

[0148] This allows the grease stored in the heat storage container to be used as a heat transfer medium in equipment that utilizes heat.

[0149] In the heat storage container according to aspect 4 of the present invention, the grease may be in a foamy form in any of the above aspects 1 to 3.

[0150] Foam-type grease offers superior heat retention due to its lower thermal conductivity.

[0151] In the heat storage container according to aspect 5 of the present invention, the container for containing the grease may be configured to be transportable, as described in any one of aspects 1 to 4 above.

[0152] This allows heat to be utilized even when there is a large distance between the source of thermal energy and the location where it is used.

[0153] In the heat storage container according to embodiment 6 of the present invention, in any of embodiments 1 to 5 described above, the grease may be configured such that the thickener is a phase change material.

[0154] This allows for an even greater increase in the thermal energy that can be retained by the grease.

[0155] In any of the above embodiments 1 to 6, the heat storage container according to embodiment 7 of the present invention may further include at least one of the second phase change material, metal, and ceramic in the grease.

[0156] This allows for an even greater increase in the thermal energy that can be retained by the grease.

[0157] A heat utilization system according to aspect 8 of the present invention may include the heat storage container described in any one of aspects 1 to 7 above, a heat storage unit for storing thermal energy in the grease in the heat storage container, and a heat utilization unit for utilizing the thermal energy of the grease taken out from the heat storage container.

[0158] This makes it possible to provide a heat utilization system that is easy to handle, highly portable, and can utilize thermal energy more efficiently.

[0159] A heat utilization method according to aspect 9 of the present invention includes a heat storage step of accumulating thermal energy in grease stored in a container, and a heat extraction step of extracting the thermal energy stored in the grease by stirring the grease into a sol, wherein the heat storage step and the heat extraction step are repeated.

[0160] This makes it possible to provide a heat utilization method that is easy to handle, highly transportable, and allows for more efficient use of thermal energy.

[0161] A heat utilization method according to embodiment 10 of the present invention may also include, in embodiment 9 above, a transport step between the heat storage step and the heat extraction step, in which the container is transported from the place where the heat storage step is performed to the place where the heat extraction step is performed.

[0162] As a result, the heat storage container of this disclosure has excellent heat retention capabilities, allowing it to retain thermal energy until needed (for example, for a long period of time), transport the thermal energy to another location, and extract the thermal energy when needed. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0163] 1, 1a, 1b, 1c heat storage container 2, 4 Heat storage units 3.5 Heat utilization unit 11, 11a container 12 Stirring mechanism 13, 13a Heat exchange section 16. Forming device 17. Opening (grease supply section) 18. Opening (grease outlet) 21, 41 Heat source 31, 51 Heat utilization targets 23 First piping 24 Second piping 33. Fourth pipe 36 Third pipe 42. Fifth pipe 52. The sixth pipe 100, 200 Heat utilization systems S1 Heat storage process S2 Transport process S3 Heat extraction process

Claims

1. A heat storage container comprising a container for containing grease and a mechanism for stirring the grease.

2. The heat storage container according to claim 1, further comprising a heat exchange section for the grease and the heat transfer medium.

3. A grease removal section for removing the grease from the container, The heat storage container according to claim 1, further comprising a grease supply unit for supplying the grease into the container.

4. The heat storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the grease is in the form of a foam.

5. A heat storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a container for containing the grease is transportable.

6. The heat storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the grease is a phase change material as a thickener.

7. The heat storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the grease further comprises at least one of a second phase change material, a metal, and a ceramic.

8. A heat storage container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, A heat storage unit that stores thermal energy in the grease within the heat storage container, A heat utilization unit that utilizes the thermal energy of grease extracted from the heat storage container, A heat utilization system, including a thermal energy utilization system.

9. A heat storage process in which thermal energy is stored in the grease contained in the container, The process includes a heat extraction step in which the grease is stirred to form a sol, thereby extracting the thermal energy stored in the grease. A method for utilizing heat, comprising repeating the heat storage step and the heat extraction step.

10. The heat utilization method according to claim 9, further comprising a transport step between the heat storage step and the heat extraction step, in which the container is transported from the location where the heat storage step is performed to the location where the heat extraction step is performed.

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