Flexible heat storage tank

Abstract

The invention relates to a flexible heat storage tank (100) intended to be fluidically connected to a heating circuit of a building having a secondary water outlet and a secondary water inlet, the flexible heat storage tank (100) comprising: - a flexible membrane (110) that defines boundaries of a heat storage space; - a primary water inlet (120) arranged on the flexible membrane (110) and intended to be connected to the secondary water outlet so as to allow an inlet primary water volume to be carried from the secondary water outlet to the primary water inlet (120); - a primary water outlet (130) arranged on the flexible membrane (110) and fluidically connected to the primary water inlet (120), and intended to be connected to the secondary water inlet, so as to allow an outlet primary water volume to be carried from the primary water outlet (130) to the secondary water inlet.

Description

[0001] FLEXIBLE THERMAL STORAGE TANK

[0002] Scope of the invention

[0003] The invention relates to the field of thermal energy storage systems.

[0004] In particular, the invention relates to the field of thermal energy storage systems intended to be fluidically connected to a building's heating circuit.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Various heating solutions for buildings, particularly multi-family residential buildings and those in the tertiary sector, are known in the state of the art.

[0007] These solutions generally require the installation, inside or in the immediate vicinity of the building, of large-capacity water tanks sized to meet the heating and domestic hot water needs of the occupants. The storage capacities of these tanks vary depending on the type of building and the requirements, but can generally reach several cubic meters of water.

[0008] State-of-the-art storage tanks have several drawbacks. These tanks are generally made of heavy materials, such as steel. Consequently, due to the large volumes of water they must be able to store, they can weigh up to several hundred kilograms when empty. As a result, their transport, handling, and installation are complex and require specific and costly civil engineering, particularly for reinforcing the foundations. Therefore, they are often integrated into the building's construction or incorporated into the design of independent boiler rooms.Furthermore, their lifespan can be affected by many parameters, such as the quality of the water they contain, the materials used to manufacture them, the treatments and paints applied to them, their frequency of use and maintenance, as well as the environment in which they are installed, all of which are factors that can contribute to accelerating their deterioration.

[0009] Thus, the cost, shape, dimensions, and weight of state-of-the-art storage tanks make their integration into existing buildings, particularly residential buildings, difficult. Specifically, their installation requires extensive engineering studies and renovation work, sometimes even demolition and reconstruction, to fit them into existing technical spaces, when this is possible or economically viable. Flexible storage solutions exist to hold large volumes of water at atmospheric pressure or to provide the material with hydrostatic resistance.

[0010] Some materials can withstand high temperatures, but rarely over long periods of storage.

[0011] There is no flexible storage solution combining large volume, operating pressure of a domestic hydraulic network (between 1.5 bars and 4 bars) and heating or domestic hot water production temperature (from 30°C to 70°C).

[0012] One objective of the present invention is to limit the aforementioned disadvantages of steel-based storage solutions, but also to remove the technical barriers allowing the use of flexible storage of a large volume heated and under pressure.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane is designed to maintain an internal pressure exerted by the liquid on the membrane of between 1.5 bars and 4 bars.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane is designed to maintain an internal pressure exerted by the liquid on the membrane greater than 2 bars.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank comprises a hydraulic interface forming a flange, said flange comprising a circumferential groove for receiving a portion of the tank wall, said groove being delimited by:

[0016] ■ a circumferential internal overflow extending a few centimeters radially into the interior of the tank and extending a few centimeters or tens of centimeters along the inner wall of the tank,

[0017] ■ and a circumferential external overflow extending radially a few centimeters outwards from the tank and extending a few centimeters or tens of centimeters along the outer wall of the tank. In one embodiment, the flexible membrane forms a wall comprising at least two layers, the first layer comprising an elastomer or polymer type material and the second layer forming a material made of woven strands or threads.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the first layer is a material comprising a proportion of ethylene-propylene-diene monomer, known as EPDM, and the second layer comprises a set of woven polyester yarns.

[0019] Summary of the invention

[0020] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a flexible thermal storage tank intended to be fluidly connected to a building heating circuit comprising a secondary water outlet and a secondary water inlet, said flexible thermal storage tank comprising:

[0021] • a flexible membrane delimiting the boundaries of a thermal storage space;

[0022] • a primary water inlet arranged on the flexible membrane, and intended to be fluidly connected to said secondary water outlet so as to allow, in an installed configuration of the flexible thermal storage tank, a conveyance of a volume of primary water from the inlet of said secondary water outlet to said primary water inlet;

[0023] • a primary water outlet arranged on the flexible membrane and fluidically connected to the primary water inlet, and intended to be fluidly connected to said secondary water inlet, so as to allow, in the installed configuration of the flexible thermal storage tank, the conveyance of a volume of primary water from said primary water outlet to said secondary water inlet; wherein:

[0024] • The flexible membrane is capable of containing, within the thermal storage space, a thermal storage volume of at least one cubic meter at a thermal storage temperature of at least sixty degrees Celsius. In one embodiment, the membrane is configured to maintain a pressure of at least 1.5 bar relative to the external environment.

[0025] According to one design, the flexible membrane or the combination of the flexible membrane with other materials is made so as to withstand a pressure of at least 3 bars relative to the external environment.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank is intended to be fluidly connected to a heating circuit supplying a plurality of respective heating circuits of a plurality of independent living spaces in a collective residential building, said flexible tank being intended to be arranged in a space isolated from said plurality of independent living spaces.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the diameter of the flexible membrane is limited to 2 meters to limit deformation under pressure.

[0028] In one embodiment, several storage units are assembled in series to increase the available storage volume. In this case, hydraulic interfaces are connected to each other to assemble the storage units.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the hydraulic connections between the storage tanks are sized to limit pressure losses between each tank and therefore within the entire storage system.

[0030] A stock or reservoir refers to one or more balloons, and conversely, a balloon or a set of balloons can be considered a stock in the remainder of this description. A reservoir can be considered a balloon in this description.

[0031] In one embodiment, the hydraulic interfaces are designed to allow the hydraulic connections between two or more tanks to be positioned. The hydraulic connection interfaces of a tank can be positioned laterally to the tank or on its upper or lower end.

[0032] According to one embodiment, straps between several balloons allow the balloons to be held in position and ensure the sealing between the hydraulic interfaces of each balloon two by two.

[0033] In one embodiment, the dimensions, the assembly of the storage tanks, and the positioning of the hydraulic interfaces allow for the stratification of the water storage in a sensible form. In another embodiment, the flexible membrane is capable of containing, within the thermal storage space, a thermal storage volume of at least two cubic meters.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space, a thermal storage volume of at least three cubic meters.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space, a thermal storage volume of at least four cubic meters.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space, a thermal storage volume at a thermal storage temperature of at least sixty-five degrees Celsius.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space, a thermal storage volume at a thermal storage temperature of at least seventy degrees Celsius.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank further comprises an auxiliary inlet and an auxiliary outlet arranged on the flexible membrane and fluidly connected to each other, and intended to be fluidly connected to an auxiliary heat source via an auxiliary thermodynamic circuit in which a heat transfer fluid circulates, so as to allow heat exchange between said heat transfer fluid and the thermal storage volume.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane comprises at least one elastomer.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane comprises an ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane comprises a weave of polyester yarns.

[0042] In one embodiment, the flexible membrane combines ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) rubber and a polyester yarn weave to ensure waterproofing and resistance to temperature and operating pressure. In another embodiment, a flexible elastomeric or polymeric material is combined with a woven material to achieve the desired effects. These two materials can be combined by layering or by integrating the woven material as a reinforcement within a matrix defined by the elastomeric or polymeric material, or a combination thereof. The woven material may comprise strands of varying lengths, depending on the required strength.

[0043] An example of a polymer is PVC and an example of an elastomer is EPDM.

[0044] Finally, the straps reinforce the mechanical stability of a stockpile and the connections between stockpiles. Furthermore, they hold the stockpiles in position and maintain the required tension at the hydraulic interfaces.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank further comprises a thermal insulation sheath arranged around the flexible membrane.

[0046] In one embodiment, the assembly of several flexible tanks comprises a set of modular thermally insulated panels arranged around all the storage tanks. The dimensions of the panels are preferably chosen to correspond to the dimensions of the tanks. One advantage is obtaining a thermally insulated overall storage tank with homogeneous dimensions.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank further comprises at least one phase-change material arranged in the thermal storage space.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the phase change material comprises a mixture of salts and water in crystalline form.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank includes an emergency fire escape, and in which the phase change material includes a material having extinguishing properties.

[0050] In one embodiment, the phase-change material comprises sodium sulfate decahydrate. In another embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank further comprises a secondary tank arranged within the thermal storage space, and comprising a plurality of containers of said phase-change material arranged within said secondary tank.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank further comprises a heat exchanger comprising at least one composite material, said phase change material being arranged in the heat exchanger, said phase change material comprising a hydrated salt.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the composite material of the heat exchanger comprises carbon fibers.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the flexible thermal storage tank comprises a toroidal shape.

[0054] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a thermal storage device comprising a plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks of the invention, and further comprises a formwork element comprising a plurality of compartments for containing said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks.

[0055] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a building comprising a flexible thermal storage tank of the invention.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the building is a collective residential building comprising a plurality of independent living spaces, said building comprising at least one heating circuit for said plurality of independent living spaces, said building further comprising a room isolated from said plurality of independent living spaces, the flexible thermal storage tank being arranged in said room.

[0057] According to a fourth aspect, the invention relates to a room isolated from a living space in a collective residential building, comprising at least one flexible thermal storage tank.

[0058] According to a fifth aspect, the invention relates to a method for installing a thermal storage device of the invention in a building, the installation method comprising:

[0059] • first installation of a formwork comprising a plurality of housings in a room of the building; • second installation of a plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks in said plurality of housings of said formwork;

[0060] • filling said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks with the thermal storage volume;

[0061] • initial establishment of a first fluidic connection between the tanks of said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks,

[0062] • second installation of a second fluid connection between said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks and the building's heating circuit.

[0063] According to a sixth aspect, the invention relates to a method for installing a thermal storage device of the invention comprising a plurality of flexible storage units in parallel within a building, the installation method comprising:

[0064] • Setting up a fluidic connection between said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks in the empty state, in the deflated state, and the building's heating circuit and therefore the pressurized water network.

[0065] • Connection and positioning of hydraulic interfaces limiting pressure losses between empty and unpressurized stockpiles in the deflated state;

[0066] • Filling of stocks up to a hydrostatic state allowing the entire storage area to be positioned.

[0067] • Pressurizing the entire storage solution.

[0068] • Maintaining the storage assembly in position.

[0069] In one embodiment, a step is performed to insert PCM nodules into the various thermal tanks from the top. This step is carried out when the tank is at hydrostatic pressure. The tank is, for example, filled with a liquid such as water. This pressure is the pressure exerted by the water on the tank wall. The tank is filled to a specific percentage to accommodate the volume of the PCMs. An advantage of this process lies in the sealing between the different components, which must be maintained throughout the installation and the lifespan of the pressurized storage tank, taking into account changes in the position of the various interfaces and the shape of the different components.

[0070] Brief description of the figures

[0071] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the detailed description that follows, with reference to the attached figures which illustrate:

[0072] [Fig.1]: a schematic representation of a flexible reservoir according to the invention.

[0073] [Fig.2]: a cross-sectional view of a flexible reservoir according to the invention, in an embodiment in which it comprises a plurality of containers encapsulating a phase-change material.

[0074] [Fig.3]: a schematic representation of a thermal storage device according to one aspect of the invention, in an embodiment in which it comprises two flexible tanks fluidly connected by a hydraulic link.

[0075] [Fig. 4]: A schematic representation of the thermal storage device, in an embodiment in which it includes a formwork element. [Fig. 5]: A schematic view of the interior of a building, including a room in which the thermal storage device is installed.

[0076] [Fig.6]: Steps of a method for installing the thermal storage device according to one aspect of the invention;

[0077] [Fig.7]: a first example of a flexible thermal storage tank having a toroidal shape in cross-section;

[0078] [Fig. 8]: a top view of the first example in Figure 7,

[0079] [Fig.9]: an example of a movable flange strainer used in the flexible tank example in Figure 7;

[0080] [Fig.10]: a second example of flexible thermal storage tanks stacked within a support structure and each having a toroidal shape in cross-section.

[0081] [Fig.11]: an example of sizing a tank that can accommodate an EPDM and flexible polyester assembly at 1.5 bars and 70°C.

[0082] [Fig. 12]: An example of a tank dimensioning can accommodate an EPDM and flexible polyester assembly at 3 bar and 70°C. [Fig. 13]: A third example of a vertical flexible thermal storage tank including hydraulic interfaces and strap passages to maintain the position and ensure the static stability of the assembly.

[0083] [Fig.14]: assembly of vertical stocks four vertical stocks to ensure the balance of the assembly and details of the solution for holding in position via removable straps.

[0084] [Fig.15]: detail, cross-sectional view of the hydraulic interface between two flexible vertical tanks with details of the optimization of pressure losses between two tanks, the solution for positioning the hydraulic interfaces, and maintaining the position of the hydraulic interfaces once the tanks are under pressure and the straps exert a compressive force on the interface.

[0085] [Fig.16]: Thermal insulation of the tanks by means of insulating panels of a size adapted to the tanks and modularly assembled.

[0086] [Fig.17]: two side and top views of a panel from figure 16.

[0087] Detailed description of the invention

[0088] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a flexible thermal storage tank 100 intended to be fluidly connected to a heating circuit Cthi of a building 300 comprising a secondary water outlet 301 and a secondary water inlet 302, said flexible thermal storage tank 100 comprising:

[0089] • a flexible membrane 110 delimiting the boundaries of a thermal storage space Zi;

[0090] • a primary water inlet 120 arranged on the flexible membrane 110, and intended to be fluidly connected to said secondary water outlet 301 so as to allow, in an installed configuration of the flexible thermal storage tank 100, a conveyance of a volume of primary water inlet VAIM from said secondary water outlet 301 to said primary water inlet 120;

[0091] • a primary water outlet 130 arranged on the flexible membrane 110 and fluidly connected to the primary water inlet 120, and intended to be fluidly connected to said secondary water inlet 302, so as to allow, in the installed configuration of the flexible thermal storage tank 100, the conveyance of a volume of primary water outlet Vsthi from said primary water outlet 130 to said secondary water inlet 302; wherein:

[0092] • The flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in its thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of at least one cubic meter at a thermal storage temperature Tzi of at least sixty degrees Celsius.

[0093] One advantage of the invention is that it allows for simplified installation, within a building, of a large-capacity tank intended to supply a heating circuit. Indeed, a challenge for installers of such tanks is access to a room in the building designated for such an installation. In a real-world on-site installation, the flexibility of the tank 100 according to the invention makes it possible to fold it, and thus reduce its dimensions, thereby facilitating its integration into the building without requiring modifications to the building's openings, as would be the case, for an equivalent storage volume, when integrating a rigid tank such as those known in the prior art.

[0094] Another advantage of the invention is to simplify the transport of the tank 100. Indeed, the flexibility of the tank 100 according to the invention makes it possible to reduce its weight and dimensions compared with a rigid tank of the prior art of equivalent storage capacity.

[0095] Another advantage of the invention is that it simplifies the maintenance and replacement of the tank 100. Indeed, the flexibility of the tank 100 of the invention gives it improved lightness and maneuverability, at equivalent volume, compared to large capacity tanks of the prior art, which represents a considerable advantage for installers, as well as for operators responsible for the maintenance of the building's heating system.

[0096] Another advantage of the invention is that it allows for improved energy efficiency of a building's heating system.

[0097] Another advantage of the invention is that it increases the lifespan of the tank compared to prior art tanks. Indeed, prior art tanks are generally made of metals, which can be susceptible to rust, and their lifespan can therefore be affected by factors such as the quality of the water they contain, the quality of the material treatments, and the environment in which they are installed.

[0098] Another advantage of the invention is to reduce manufacturing, installation and maintenance costs compared to large capacity tanks of the prior art.

[0099] In summary, the flexible thermal storage tank 100 according to the invention has the following main, non-exclusive advantages over prior art thermal storage tanks intended for supplying building heating circuits:

[0100] - simplified on-site integration resulting from the mechanical properties of the tank giving it its flexibility;

[0101] - an improvement in energy efficiency resulting from the possibility of installing tanks containing larger volumes of thermal storage, capable of withstanding high temperatures, and capable of being coupled to ancillary systems, such as, but not limited to, a boiler, a heat pump, a solar thermal installation, a geothermal source;

[0102] - resistance to the temperature and pressure of use of the heating or domestic hot water circuit;

[0103] - an overall reduction in costs, whether during manufacturing, transport or installation, or during maintenance which is simplified and less frequently required;

[0104] - A limitation of pressure losses in the assembly of several stocks in series;

[0105] - an increased lifespan.

[0106] In this description, "Cthi heating circuit" means a fluidic circuit used for heating or cooling applications in a building 300.

[0107] Figure 1 illustrates a flexible thermal storage tank 100 according to a first aspect of the invention.

[0108] In this description, for the sake of brevity, the "flexible thermal storage tank 100" may also be referred to as "tank 100" or "flexible tank 100". The flexible tank 100 comprises a flexible membrane 110. The term "flexible membrane" means that the membrane 110 has mechanical properties such that it is capable of elastic deformation when subjected to mechanical stresses. The term "elastic deformation" means that the membrane 110 is capable of reversible deformation, such that it is capable of returning to its original shape when it is no longer subjected to one or more stresses that caused its initial deformation.

[0109] Examples of mechanical stresses that may apply to the flexible membrane 110 include, but are not limited to, pressure exerted on the membrane 110, for example, pressure exerted by the thermal storage volume Vzi present in the tank 100 when the latter is in an installed configuration, or one or more successive foldings of the tank 100, for example, carried out for the purpose of transporting, installing or maintaining the tank 100 in a building 300. It may also be a stress resulting from filling the tank 100 with the thermal storage volume Vzi, which includes, for example, a volume of water, a volume of a phase change material, or any other volume suitable for a thermal storage function for a building heating application.

[0110] In one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 comprises at least one polymer material. For example, the flexible membrane 110 comprises at least one elastomeric material. This could be, for instance, a synthetic rubber. Examples include, but are not limited to, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), polyurethane, silicone, polybutadiene, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The invention is not limited to the aforementioned examples and covers any other material, material category, or combination of materials whose mechanical properties allow reversible deformation of the membrane 110, for example, during membrane folding operations or when filling the membrane 110 with a thermal storage volume VZA.A combination of materials will make it possible to control the mechanical stresses exerted on the flexible membrane during its deformation. One advantage is to allow the 110 tank to deform and return to its original dimensions without damage.

[0111] According to a preferred embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 comprises an ethylene-propylene-diene monomer.

[0112] One advantage is the ability to easily create complex shapes in space, such as, for example, a self-supporting torus-shaped tank under pressure.

[0113] One advantage is that it allows the membrane to withstand high temperatures, such as temperatures above 150°C. Thus, in the context of the invention, a membrane comprising such a material presents a particular advantage, both because of its elastic properties, but also because of its thermal resistance properties, allowing it to withstand temperatures higher than the usual temperatures of fluids used for building heating applications, which are for example between 40°C and 80°C.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 comprises a combination of at least one polymer material and at least one reinforcing material. This is, for example, a combination of an elastomeric material, such as rethylene-propylene-diene monomer, and a polyester, for example in the form of woven polyester yarns.

[0115] One advantage is to improve the resistance of the membrane 110 to stresses imposed by large volumes of thermal storage, for example volumes of several cubic meters, for example a volume of five cubic meters of water.

[0116] Another advantage is to improve the resistance of the 110 membrane to high temperatures, for example temperatures above 70°C.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the membrane 110 comprises at least one layer produced by means of a vulcanization process.

[0118] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for being in an "installed configuration" in which it is fluidly connected to the Cthi heating circuit of building 300.

[0119] In one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for installation in which it includes the thermal storage volume Vzi. In another embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for installation in which it is fluidly connected to at least one other tank 100. This could be, for example, an adjacent tank located in the same room as the tank 100. The tank 100 is, for example, suitable for fluidly connected to one or more tanks by means of a hydraulic connection. An example of such a configuration is illustrated in Figure 3.

[0120] According to one embodiment, the 100 tank is suitable for being in an installed configuration in which its length is between 100 centimeters and 600 centimeters.

[0121] According to one embodiment, the 100 tank is suitable for being in an installed configuration in which its width is between 50 centimeters and 100 centimeters.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the 100 tank is suitable for being in an installed configuration in which its width is between 100 centimeters and 200 centimeters.

[0123] One advantage of such dimensions is to allow a "flat" installation of one or more 100 tanks in a room of a 300 building.

[0124] Another advantage of such dimensions is to allow the "upright" installation of one or more 100 tanks in a room of a 300 building.

[0125] The tank 100 of the invention is also capable of having larger or smaller dimensions in its installed configuration, provided that these dimensions are adapted to contain a thermal storage volume intended to supply a Cthi heating circuit of a building 300.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is capable of being in an "empty configuration" in which it is not installed in the building 300. This is, for example, a configuration in which the tank 100 is not fluidly connected to the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300. In another example, it is a configuration in which the tank 100 is not fluidly connected to another tank 100 via a hydraulic link. Such a configuration of the tank 100 of the invention corresponds, for example, to its configuration upstream of the installation, for example, at the time of its transport to the site upstream of its installation, or following the replacement of said tank 100 after a maintenance operation.

[0127] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is capable of being in a "folded" configuration. For example, the tank 100 is capable of being in a folded configuration in which it has undergone one or more successive folds. This is, for example, a particular configuration of the empty configuration of the tank 100, resulting, for example, from an action by an operator.

[0128] One advantage is to temporarily and reversibly reduce the dimensions of the 100 tank, for example for the purpose of transporting said 100 tank to an installation site.

[0129] According to one embodiment, the 100 tank is able to be in a folded configuration in which its length is between 50 centimeters and 100 centimeters.

[0130] One advantage is to simplify the transport and handling of the thermal storage tank 100. Such a configuration allows, for example, advantageous insertion of the tank 100 inside a vehicle, for example for transport to an installation site.

[0131] Advantageously, the mass of the flexible tank 100, in its empty configuration, is between 10 kilograms and 50 kilograms, for example, 30 kilograms. The mass of the tank 100 depends in particular on the composition of the flexible membrane. For example, the use of ethyl propylene diene monomer in the composition of the flexible membrane 110 contributes advantageously, in addition to its elastic and thermal properties, to the lightness of the tank 100. Such a material has, in particular, a surface mass of 1150 g / m² plus or minus 5%, according to the NF EN 1849-2 standard dated July 2019, which aims to characterize sealing sheets, in particular elastomers.

[0132] The flexible membrane 110 defines the boundaries of a thermal storage space Zi. The flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, within the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi.

[0133] The term "thermal storage volume Vzi" means any material, any combination of materials, any mixture or any other element or combination of elements occupying a given volume of the thermal storage space Zi inside the flexible tank 100, and being capable of storing thermal energy.

[0134] According to one embodiment, the reservoir 100 is capable of containing at least a portion of the thermal storage volume Vzi in the form of a sensible heat storage volume. A "sensible heat storage volume" is defined as a volume capable of storing and releasing thermal energy without undergoing a phase change. In this case, the thermal storage volume Vzi comprises, for example, a volume of water or an organic oil.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the reservoir 100 is capable of containing at least a portion of the thermal storage volume Vzi in the form of a latent heat storage volume. A "latent heat storage volume" is defined as a volume capable of storing and releasing thermal energy during phase changes within that volume. In this case, the thermal storage volume Vzi comprises, for example, a phase-change material, such as paraffin, a fatty acid, or a hydrated salt, for example, sodium sulfate decahydrate.

[0136] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for an installed configuration in which it includes a thermal storage volume Vzi comprising a volume of water. This is, for example, a volume of water intended to circulate directly in the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300. This is, for example, a volume of water having a temperature between 60°C and 80°C, for example 70°C.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for being in an installed configuration in which it includes a thermal storage volume Vzi comprising at least one phase change material 140. Examples of phase change materials that may make up the thermal storage volume Vzi include, but are not limited to, organic materials such as paraffins or fatty acids, inorganic materials such as salts or salt hydrates, or a eutectic mixture.

[0138] According to one embodiment, the reservoir 100 comprises at least one compartment arranged within the thermal storage space Zi. This is, for example, a compartment intended to contain at least a portion of the thermal storage volume Vzi. It is, for example, a compartment intended to contain a material capable of exchanging heat with at least a portion of the thermal storage volume Vzi, for example, a phase-change material 140 capable of storing and releasing energy in the form of latent heat.

[0139] One advantage is to increase the thermal storage capacity in the 100 tank.

[0140] Another advantage is regulating temperature fluctuations in tank 100.

[0141] Another advantage is improving the energy efficiency of the heating system.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the reservoir 100 includes at least one opening arranged on the membrane 110 and leading to the thermal storage space Zi.

[0143] One advantage is to allow the filling or emptying of the 100 tank with the thermal storage volume Vzi.

[0144] In one embodiment, the reservoir 100 comprises at least one opening 142 leading to at least one compartment arranged within the thermal storage space Zi. This compartment may be, for example, capable of containing a portion of the thermal storage volume Vzi and isolated from at least one other portion of the thermal storage volume Vzi. For example, this compartment may be an opening leading to a compartment intended to contain a phase-change material 140, for example encapsulated, and isolated from a volume of water contained and / or circulating within said thermal storage space V. zi , as illustrated in figure 2.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for the installed configuration in which it includes the thermal storage volume Vzi. The thermal storage volume Vzi is, for example, introduced into the tank 100 during its installation in the building 300.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for being in the installed configuration in which it is connected to the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300, and in which it includes the thermal storage volume VZA.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is capable of being in an installed configuration in which the dimensions of the membrane 110 are greater than the dimensions of the membrane 110 when the tank 100 is in its empty configuration. In this case, the tank 100 has, for example, a greater length, width, or height compared to its empty configuration. Such a dimensional variation results, for example, from the introduction of the storage volume VzA into the tank 100.

[0148] According to one embodiment, the thermal storage volume Vzi comprises a plurality of containers encapsulating at least one phase change material 140. The phase change material 140 is, for example, encapsulated in a plurality of nodules, as illustrated in Figure 2.

[0149] One advantage of using a plurality of phase change material containers 140 in combination with a flexible tank is to increase the thermal storage volume as well as the exchange surface area.

[0150] The flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of at least one cubic meter.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of at least two cubic meters.

[0152] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of at least three cubic meters.

[0153] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of at least four cubic meters.

[0154] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of at least five cubic meters.

[0155] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of between one cubic meter and five cubic meters.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, within the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi of between one cubic meter and ten cubic meters. The flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, within the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi at a temperature of at least sixty degrees Celsius.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi at a temperature of at least sixty-five degrees Celsius.

[0158] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi at a temperature of at least seventy degrees Celsius.

[0159] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi at a temperature of at least seventy-five degrees Celsius.

[0160] According to one embodiment, the flexible membrane 110 is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space Zi, a thermal storage volume Vzi at a temperature of at least eighty degrees Celsius.

[0161] Tank 100 is intended to be fluidically connected to a Cthi heating circuit of a building 300. A "Cthi heating circuit" is understood to be a fluidic circuit used for heating or cooling applications of a building 300.

[0162] For this purpose, the 100-liter tank includes:

[0163] • a primary water inlet 120 through which, in the installed configuration of the tank 100, a volume of water from the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300 is conveyed to the tank 100, and includes;

[0164] • a primary water outlet 130 through which, in the installed configuration of the tank 100, a volume of heated water from the tank 100 is conveyed to the heating circuit of the Cthi building.

[0165] The primary water inlet 120 of the tank 100 is intended to be fluidly connected to a water inlet of the heating circuit of the building 300, called secondary water outlet 301. The primary water outlet 130 of the tank 100 is intended to be fluidly connected to an inlet of the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300, called secondary water inlet 302, so as to supply the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300, for example with hot water to meet requirements, such as heating and domestic hot water requirements. The primary water inlet 120 is fluidly connected to the primary water outlet 130. Thus, in the so-called "installed" configuration of the tank 100, this advantageously allows a volume of water from the heating circuit of the building Cthi to enter the tank 100 via the primary water inlet 120, and circulate in said tank 100 to the primary water outlet 130 to return to the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300.

[0166] Advantageously, in the installed configuration, the volume of water circulating in the tank 100 from the primary water inlet 120 to the primary water outlet 130 captures calories by thermal transfer in the thermal storage space Zi, such that the temperature of the volume of water at the outlet of the tank 100 is greater than the temperature of the volume of water at the inlet of the tank 100.

[0167] The primary water inlet volume VAIN is the volume of water from the heating circuit Cthi of building 300 which, in the installed configuration, enters the tank 100 through the primary water inlet 120.

[0168] The primary outlet water volume Vsthi is the volume of water which, in the installed configuration, leaves the tank 100 to return to the heating circuit Cthi of the building 300.

[0169] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for being in an installed configuration in which the primary water outlet volume Vsthi results from a heat exchange between the primary water inlet volume VAIM and the thermal storage volume Vzi in the thermal storage space Zi.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for being in an installed configuration in which the thermal storage volume Vzi includes the primary inlet water volume VAIM.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for being in an installed configuration in which the thermal storage volume Vzi includes the primary outlet water volume Vsthi.

[0172] In one embodiment, the tank 100 is suitable for fluid connection with at least one auxiliary heat source 600. This could be, for example, but not limited to, a boiler, a heat pump, a solar thermal system, or a hybrid heat source. For this purpose, the tank 100 includes, for example, at least one auxiliary inlet and at least one auxiliary outlet. The auxiliary inlet and outlet are, for example, arranged on the flexible membrane 110.

[0173] In one embodiment, the tank 100 includes an emergency vent. This is, for example, a vent whose activation allows all or part of the storage volume Vzi of the tank 100 to be evacuated.

[0174] In one embodiment, the tank 100 includes at least one heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is, for example, arranged in the thermal storage space 100.

[0175] According to one embodiment, the tank 100 includes at least one heat exchanger made of composite material.

[0176] One advantage is to reduce corrosion phenomena caused by the use of certain categories of materials, such as phase change materials in the form of hydrated salts.

[0177] Another advantage is the optimization of heat exchange.

[0178] Another advantage is reducing the mass of the system.

[0179] According to one embodiment, the reservoir 100 includes a heat exchanger made of composite material through which a hydrated salt, also called "Glauber's salt" in the literature, circulates. This is, for example, sodium sulfate decahydrate.

[0180] As an illustrative example, the hydrated salt circulating in the heat exchanger comprises a combination of salts and water in crystalline form in the solid state. For example, it could be a mixture of sodium sulfate and water, or a mixture of 44% sodium sulfate and 56% water.

[0181] In another example, the hydrated salt circulating in the exchanger comprises a combination of sodium carbonate and water.

[0182] One advantage of such a mixture is that it allows for the storage of a greater amount of calorie due to a significant latent heat of phase change.

[0183] Another advantage is reducing the expansion phenomenon associated with the liquid-solid phase transition compared to using an organic phase-change material.

[0184] Another advantage is improved thermal conductivity. Another advantage is the use of a compound found in fire-fighting foam concentrates.

[0185] Thus, the use of such materials in a thermal storage tank within a building offers the advantage of storing a large quantity of heat for heating applications, while also providing an effective fire suppression reserve in case of emergency. This effect is particularly advantageous compared to the use of certain organic phase-change materials such as paraffins, which would, on the contrary, promote the spread of fire in the event of an emergency evacuation of the tank's contents.

[0186] According to another aspect illustrated in figures 3 and 4, the invention relates to a thermal storage device 200 comprising a plurality of flexible tanks 100.

[0187] One advantage of such a thermal storage device 200 is to improve the energy performance of the building's heating system by increasing storage capacity when the device 200 is in an installed configuration.

[0188] According to one embodiment, in an installed configuration of the thermal storage device 200, at least one tank 100 is fluidly connected to at least one other tank 100 of said device 200 via a hydraulic link. An example of a thermal storage device comprising two tanks connected to each other via a hydraulic link is illustrated in Figure 3.

[0189] According to one embodiment, in an installed configuration of the thermal storage device 200, each tank 100 is fluidly connected with at least one other tank 100 via a hydraulic link.

[0190] According to an embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the thermal storage device 200 comprises a formwork element. The formwork element is intended to contain a plurality of tanks 100. The formwork element comprises, for example, a metal structure.

[0191] According to one embodiment, the formwork element comprises a plurality of compartments, each capable of containing a flexible tank 100. According to one embodiment, the formwork element comprises a plurality of compartments arranged at different heights from the ground along the same vertical axis.

[0192] One advantage of such a configuration is that it allows for the installation of multiple tanks stacked one on top of the other, thus optimizing the system's footprint by reducing the floor space required. Therefore, with this configuration, storage volume can be effectively maximized in a confined space.

[0193] According to another embodiment (not shown), the formwork element comprises a plurality of adjacent compartments arranged at the same height relative to the ground.

[0194] According to one embodiment, the formwork element comprises a plurality of adjacent compartments arranged at the same height relative to the ground along the same horizontal axis and a plurality of superimposed compartments arranged at different heights relative to the ground along the same vertical axis.

[0195] One advantage is that it allows for an increase in the thermal storage volume of the system.

[0196] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a room comprising at least one flexible tank 100. The term "room" means any space allowing the installation of a flexible tank 100. This includes, for example, any space having an access allowing a fluid connection of the tank 100 to the heating circuit of the building 300.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the room is isolated from a living space in building 300.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the premises are located outside building 300.

[0199] According to one embodiment, the room is arranged on the roof of building 300.

[0200] According to one embodiment, the room is arranged at an altitude lower than ground level.

[0201] In another aspect, the invention relates to a building 300 comprising at least one flexible tank 100. In one embodiment, the building 300 is a building. For example, it is a multi-unit residential building comprising multiple dwelling units.

[0202] According to one embodiment, building 300 is a tertiary building.

[0203] According to another aspect, with reference to Figure 6, the invention relates to a method for installing 400 a thermal storage device 200 in a building 300 comprising:

[0204] • first installation I NSi of a formwork 201 comprising a plurality of dwellings in a room of building 300;

[0205] • second installation INS2 of a plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks 100 in said plurality of dwellings of said formwork 201;

[0206] • filling REP1 of said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks 100 with the thermal storage volume VZ1;

[0207] • first MEP1 implementation of a first fluidic connection between the 100 tanks of said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks 100,

[0208] • second MEP2 installation of a second fluidic connection between said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks 100 and the Cthi heating circuit of building 300.

[0209] Figure 7 shows an example of a flexible thermal storage tank 100 in the shape of a torus. The tank 100 comprises a set of phase-change material containers 140. In this example, the toroidal tank 100 has outlets for connecting hydraulic fittings. In one example, these connections are made using a movable flanged strainer 300.

[0210] According to one example, the flexible tank, once installed and filled, is self-supporting.

[0211] Figure 8 represents a top view of such a 100 tank having acquired its toroidal shape.

[0212] Figure 9 shows an example of a movable flanged strainer 300, which has a portion with openings for fluid passage and a portion for attaching the connector, featuring circumferential openings for the passage of screws, for example. Figure 10 shows an example of stacking flexible thermal storage tanks 100 in a torus shape within a support that allows the different tanks to be stacked.

[0213] In one exemplary embodiment, each tiered flexible tank 100 includes at least one connection 350 to another adjacent tank located on the tier below or above. Thus, each flexible tank 100 communicates fluidly with another flexible tank 100 in order to increase storage capacity.

[0214] The 380 support can include compartments to isolate each level. The 380 support can also include a main mast to maintain the stability of the stack.

[0215] At least two 100 tanks include 300 outlets for connecting hydraulic fittings. In one example, these connections are operated by means of a 300 movable flanged strainer.

[0216] In the example in Figure 10, each tank contains a set of phase change material containers 140. Each flexible tank 100 located on a given floor may include different sets of phase change material containers 140 or identical containers.

[0217] According to an example shown in Figure 11, the tank 100 has a flexible wall 110. In this example, the operating pressure is 1.5 bar and the operating temperature is 65°C. In this example, the height 171 of the tank is 2200 mm with the end caps and 1800 mm without them, and the diameter 170 is 1000 mm. With this configuration, the usable internal volume, not including the volume of the end caps, is 1.4 m³.

[0218] As shown in Figure 12, tank 100 has a flexible wall 110. In this example, the operating pressure is 2 bar and the operating temperature is 65°C. According to this example, the height 171 of the tank is 2200 mm with the end caps and 1800 mm without them, and the diameter 170 is 900 mm. With this configuration, the usable internal volume, not including the volume of the end caps, is 1.15 m³. Thus, depending on the material configuration and pressure requirements, it is possible to select a tank volume suitable for the application.

[0219] As shown in Figure 13, the tank 100 has a flexible wall 110. This example illustrates hydraulic interfaces 130 for connecting tanks together. Various arrangements allow the hydraulic interfaces to be positioned on the tank's side wall or on the extremities, defining caps. In one embodiment, each tank comprises multiple interfaces 130, enabling a wide variety of possible tank configurations to form a storage area of ​​a given volume. One advantage is the ability to accommodate different installation configurations, which may depend on the installation location, the available volume, and constraints of the room housing the tanks.

[0220] Thus, in the example of Figure 13, on the uppermost part defining a first dome, the reservoir 100 includes a first distal hydraulic interface. Similarly, and optionally, on the lowermost part defining a second dome, the reservoir 100 includes a second distal hydraulic interface. This interface is labeled 162 in Figure 13. This interface can also define a sight glass and / or a drain valve.

[0221] In the example of Figure 13, on the lateral part defining the surface of the cylinder, the tank 100 includes four hydraulic interfaces distributed at angles separating them from the axis of the tank.

[0222] In one example, a first arrangement of four hydraulic interfaces is located on one end of the tank's lateral surface near a first dome, and a second arrangement of four hydraulic interfaces is located on the other end of the tank's lateral surface near a second dome. In this specific case, the tank has 8 hydraulic interfaces on its circumferential lateral surface.

[0223] Various configuration variations are possible within the invention, particularly regarding the distribution of hydraulic interfaces, their arrangement, their configuration, and their architecture. One such architecture is defined in Figure 15. It can form a flange incorporating means for attaching them to another flange to secure them together.

[0224] As illustrated in Figure 13, a laterally arranged flange can be 4 inches in diameter for hydraulically connecting tanks. Similarly, a flange arranged at the distal end of a tank cap can be 6 inches in diameter for hydraulically connecting tanks.

[0225] In the example in Figure 13, a smaller opening 161, for example one inch, can be arranged to carry out drainage.

[0226] In the example shown in Figure 13, a purge valve, specifically for air, can be installed, for example, on one of the caps. Advantageously, this could be the upper cap to ensure proper drainage without having to handle the reservoir.

[0227] Figure 13 also shows retaining elements 151 for the passage of straps 150. These can be distributed circumferentially on the lateral surface of the tank and at different heights of the tank so as to allow different points of attachment of tanks to each other.

[0228] Figure 14 shows an example of a tank of the type shown in Figure 13, to which a set of straps 150 has been mounted circumferentially. These straps 150 are held in place by the strap retainers. In the case of Figure 13, two arrangements of retainers 151 have been mounted on the surface of the tank to allow strapping in two circles around the tank 100.

[0229] Figure 14 shows four tanks 100 joined together by means of removable additional straps 152. These straps are made compatible with the strap retaining element. This strap retaining element 151 can be, for example, a quick-release fastening system. The length of the additional straps 152 can be determined to ensure the pressurization of the hydraulic interfaces.

[0230] The additional straps 152 thus serve as elements for securing the tanks together and as load-bearing elements to ensure the connection of the hydraulic interfaces between two tanks. Figure 15 shows an example of a hydraulic interface used to secure two tanks together.

[0231] In this example, the hydraulic interface is provided by a flange forming an opening. The opening can be circular or any other shape depending on the chosen geometry of the flange.

[0232] In the example in Figure 15, the flange defines an opening in a storage tank forming a hydraulic interface, and has an annular configuration suitable for the leak-proof assembly of a multilayer tank wall.

[0233] In this embodiment, flange 160 includes a circumferential groove intended to receive a portion of the tank wall, said groove being delimited by:

[0234] ■ a circumferential internal overflow extending a few centimeters radially into the interior of the tank and extending a few centimeters or tens of centimeters along the inner wall of the tank,

[0235] ■ and a circumferential external overflow extending radially a few centimeters radially outwards from the tank and extending a few centimeters or tens of centimeters along the outer wall of the tank.

[0236] These two overflows together define a throat-shaped cavity into which the wall of the reservoir is inserted.

[0237] According to this example, flange 160 helps to hold the wall of the tank which forms at least two layers, arranged against each other, which are sandwiched between the two aforementioned overflows.

[0238] This configuration allows for mechanical and / or watertight retention of the wall in the flange, ensuring a robust and durable interface between the tank structure and the associated hydraulic system.

[0239] When the flanges 160 are assembled, they can be held together in pairs by means of an adhesive wall 112. Other fixing elements such as hinges can be used.

[0240] An opening is formed with a distance denoted 172, allowing the exchange of liquid, or more generally fluid, between the two connected tanks. In one embodiment, a sealing O-ring 113 is mounted in contact with two flanges of two respective tanks to ensure a leak-proof seal between the tanks.

[0241] In this example, the tank wall is made of an EPDM-type material and a woven polyester lining. This two-layer assembly allows the tanks to withstand pressures between 1.5 and 4 bars and to be connected to a pressurized network.

[0242] The internal pressure forces 173 within each tank (represented by 4 arrows in the diagram) ensure good contact between the flanges of two joined tanks. The arrows 173, showing the direction of pressure application in each tank, are illustrated in Figure 15.

[0243] Figure 16 illustrates tanks held together by straps 150 and secured with a thermal insulation solution 115, 116. In this example, the thermal insulation solution consists of a set of panels 116, 115 connected by a fastening means, for example, a micro-loop adhesive 114. Such a fastening system allows for a reversible connection, comprising a first band with flexible hooks and a second complementary band with loops that can cooperate with said hooks by mutual engagement, thus allowing temporary or removable assembly by simple pressure and disassembly by pulling.

[0244] The panels are preferably chosen according to dimensions specific to the tanks. The panels can form a geometry that is adapted to the storage capacity of all the tanks.

[0245] Figure 17 illustrates a side view of an insulation panel, showing the side insulation panel 115 and the edge 114 forming an adhesive surface for connecting panels together. Figure 17 further illustrates a top surface defining an upper or lower insulation wall 116.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) intended to be fluidly connected to a building heating circuit (Cthi) comprising a secondary water outlet (301) and a secondary water inlet (302), said flexible thermal storage tank (100) comprising: • a flexible membrane (110) delimiting the boundaries of a thermal storage space (Zi); • a primary water inlet (120) arranged on the flexible membrane (110), and intended to be fluidly connected to said secondary water outlet (301) so as to allow, in an installed configuration of the flexible thermal storage tank (100), a conveyance of a volume of primary water inlet (VAIM) from said secondary water outlet (301) to said primary water inlet (120); • a primary water outlet (130) arranged on the flexible membrane (110) and fluidly connected to the primary water inlet (120), and intended to be fluidly connected to said secondary water inlet (302), so as to allow, in the installed configuration of the flexible thermal storage tank (100), the conveyance of a volume of primary water outlet (Vsthi) from said primary water outlet (130) to said secondary water inlet (302); wherein: • the flexible membrane (110) is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space (Zi), a thermal storage volume (Vzi) of at least one cubic meter at a thermal storage temperature (Tzi) of at least sixty degrees Celsius.

2. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 1 characterized in that the flexible membrane is designed to maintain an internal pressure exerted by the liquid on the membrane of between 1.5 bars and 4 bars.

3. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 1 characterized in that the flexible membrane is designed to maintain an internal pressure exerted by the liquid on the membrane greater than 2 bars.

4. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 1 characterized in that it comprises a hydraulic interface forming a flange, said flange comprising a circumferential groove for receiving a portion of the tank wall, said groove being delimited by: ■ a circumferential internal overflow extending a few centimeters radially into the interior of the tank and extending a few centimeters or tens of centimeters along the inner wall of the tank, ■ and a circumferential external overflow extending radially a few centimeters radially outwards from the tank and extending a few centimeters or tens of centimeters along the outer wall of the tank.

5. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 1 characterized in that the flexible membrane forms a wall comprising at least two layers of which a first layer comprises an elastomer or polymer type material and a second layer forms a material made of woven strands or threads.

6. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 5 characterized in that the first layer is a material comprising a proportion of ethylene-propylene-diene monomer, said EPDM, and the second layer comprises a set of woven polyester yarns.

7. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 1, intended to be fluidly connected to a heating circuit supplying a plurality of respective heating circuits of a plurality of independent living spaces of a collective residential building, said flexible tank (100) being intended to be arranged in a space isolated from said plurality of independent living spaces.

8. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the flexible membrane (110) is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space (Zi), a thermal storage volume (Vzi) of at least two cubic meters.

9. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the flexible membrane (110) is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space (Zi), a thermal storage volume (Vzi) of at least three cubic meters.

10. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the flexible membrane (110) is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space (Zi), a thermal storage volume (Vzi) of at least four cubic meters.

11. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the flexible membrane (110) is capable of containing, in the thermal storage space (Zi), a thermal storage volume (Vzi) at a thermal storage temperature of at least sixty-five degrees Celsius.

12. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible membrane (110) is capable of containing, within the thermal storage space (Zi), a thermal storage volume (Vzi) at a thermal storage temperature of at least seventy degrees Celsius 13. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an auxiliary inlet and an auxiliary outlet arranged on the flexible membrane (110) and fluidly connected to each other, and intended to be fluidly connected to an auxiliary heat source via an auxiliary thermodynamic circuit in which a heat transfer fluid circulates, so as to allow heat exchange between said heat transfer fluid and the thermal storage volume (Vzi).

14. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible membrane (110) comprises at least one elastomer.

15. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 9, in which the flexible membrane (110) comprises an ethylene-propylene-diene monomer rubber.

16. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of claims 14 to 15, wherein the flexible membrane (110) comprises a weave of polyester yarns.

17. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a thermal insulation sheath arranged around the flexible membrane (110).

18. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one phase change material (140) arranged in the thermal storage space (Zi).

19. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 18, in which the phase change material (140) comprises a mixture of salts and water in crystalline form.

20. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of claims 18 to 19, comprising an emergency fire escape, and in which the phase change material (140) comprises a material having extinguishing properties.

21. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 20, in which the phase change material (140) comprises a sodium sulfate decahydrate.

22. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of claims 18 to 21, further comprising a secondary tank arranged in the thermal storage space (Zi), and comprising a plurality of containers of said phase-change material (140) arranged in said secondary tank.

23. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of claims 18 to 22, further comprising a heat exchanger comprising at least one composite material, said phase change material (140) being arranged in the heat exchanger, said phase change material (140) comprising a hydrated salt.

24. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to claim 23, in which the composite material of the heat exchanger comprises carbon fibers.

25. Flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that it comprises a toroidal shape.

26. Thermal storage device (200) comprising a plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 25, and further comprising a formwork element (201) comprising a plurality of compartments for containing said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks (100).

27. Building (300) comprising a flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

28. Building (300) according to claim 27, wherein the building (300) is a multi-unit residential building comprising a plurality of independent living spaces, said building (300) comprising at least one heating circuit (Cthi) of said plurality of independent living spaces, said building (300) further comprising a room (301) isolated from said plurality of independent living spaces, the flexible thermal storage tank (100) being arranged in said room (301).

29. Local (300) isolated from a dwelling place in a collective residential building, comprising at least one flexible thermal storage tank (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

30. Method of installing (400) a thermal storage device (200) according to claim 26 in a building (300) according to any one of claims 27 to 28, the installation method (400) comprising: • first installation (INSi) of a formwork (201) comprising a plurality of housing units in a room of the building (300); • second installation (INS2) of a plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks (100) in said plurality of housings of said formwork (201); • filling (REP1) of said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks (100) with the thermal storage volume (Vzi); • first installation (MEP1) of a first fluidic connection between the tanks of said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks (100), • second installation (MEP2) of a second fluidic connection between said plurality of flexible thermal storage tanks (100) and the heating circuit (Cthi) of the building (300).

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