Solar turbine hybrid heat pump energy system
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure US2026013958_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
Atty. Docket No. 0765-012SOLAR TURBINE HYBRID HEAT PUMP ENERGY SYSTEMFIELD
[0001] The present disclosure is directed a hybrid air conditioning / heating / energy system.BACKGROUND
[0002] As concerns grow about warming of the planet which, to some extent, is caused by consumption of energy derived from greenhouse gases and fossil fuels, numerous efforts are underway to develop alternate systems to reduce reliance on such consumption. This air conditioing / heating system also reduces the impact of warming the planet by utilizing extremely low Global Warming Potential (GWP) fluids <10 compare to today's R410A @ GWP of 2200.
[0003] As temperatures become extreme, the need and demand for air conditioning / heating has increased even in parts of the world where such need did not exist traditionally. Increased use of such high GWP fluid systems is adding further to greenhouse emissions.
[0004] Example embodiments of the present disclosure provides an efficient, effective and a reliable method for air conditioning / heating while reducing reliance on energy derived from fossil fuels.SUMMARY
[0005] According to an example embodiment, an air conditioning / heating / enegy system is disclosed. The air conditioning / heating / energy system comprises: a plurality of subsystems wherein a first one of the plurality of subsystems comprises a single or dual condenser, a single or dual low global warming potential (GWP of <10) liquid refrigerant, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector and an expander. The liquid pump receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser and pumps the liquid refrigerant to the recuperator, the recuperator heats the liquid refrigerant a first time that flows to the collector, the collector heats the liquid refrigerant a second time resulting in change of state of the liquid refrigerant to a vapor that flows to theAtty. Docket No. 0765-012expander, the expander releases energy from the vapor and the vapor flows to the recuperator where heat from the vapor is transferred and the vapor flows to the condenser and the condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid.
[0006] A second one of the subsystems comprises the same condenser described above, an air handler and a compressor with an electric motor / generator (backup energy source) and clutch system. The air handler receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser and throttles the fluid to change the state of the refrigerant to a vapor. The vapor absorbs heat from the area exposed to the vapor creating a cooler area and flows the heated vapor to the compressor, the compressor sets the fluid flow rate and raises the pressure and temperature and outputs the vapor to the condenser and the condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid. Energy released from the expander is utilized to spin a shaft connected to the compressor with the backup electric motor / generator is not engaged.
[0007] According to an example embodiment, an air conditioning / heating / energy system is disclosed. The air conditioning / heating / energy system comprises: a plurality of subsystems wherein a first one of the plurality of subsystems comprises a single or dual condenser, a single or dual low global warming potential (GWP of <10) liquid refrigerant, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector and an expander. The liquid pump receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser and pumps the liquid refrigerant to the recuperator, the recuperator heats the liquid refrigerant a first time that flows to the collector, the collector heats the liquid refrigerant a second time resulting in change of state of the liquid refrigerant to a vapor that flows to the expander, the expander releases energy from the vapor and the vapor flows to the recuperator where heat from the vapor is transferred and the vapor flows to the condenser and the condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid.
[0008] A second one of the subsystems comprises the same condenser described above, an air handler and a compressor with an electric motor / generator and clutch system. Energy released from the expander is utilized to spin a shaft, a clutch system is used to disengage the compressor and engage the electric motor / generator. The generator can be used to make energy in the form of electricity if cooling or heating is not required and solar thermal energy is available.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0009] According to another example embodiment, a solar thermal powered heating system is disclosed. The system comprises: a single or dual condenser. The systems comprises a condenser, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector and an expander, a compressor and airhandler. The liquid pump receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser and pumps the liquid refrigerant to the recuperator, the liquid refrigerant flows to a collector, the collector heats the liquid refrigerant a resulting in change of state of the liquid refrigerant to a vapor that bypasses the expander / compressor / condenser and flows directly to the airhandler. The airhandler transfers heat to the exposed area and returns to the condenser to start the cycle over.
[0010] According to another example embodiment, a heat pump system is disclosed. The systems comprises a condenser, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector and an expander, a compressor with electric motor / generator, valve system and airhandler. The liquid pump, recupertor, collector are bypassed and the compressor discharge flows as a heat pump using a valve system to the airhandler. The airhander transfer heat to the exposed area and flows to the condenser then to the compressor. The compressor is powered by an electric motor / generator.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The several features, objects, and advantages of example embodiments will be understood by reading this description in conjunction with the drawings. The same reference numbers in different drawings identify the same or similar elements. In the drawings:FIG.l - FIG. 8 Solar Air conditioning / Heating - No Heat Pump
[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0013] FIG. 2 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) with a collector with thermal storage in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) with a collector with 2EA recuperators in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a combination of FIG.2 and FIG.3 solar air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) with a collector with thermal storage and 2EA recuperators in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates the flow of an air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) without solar powered assist;
[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates the flow of an air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) defined in FIG.3 without solar powered assist;
[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates the flow of an solar heating system (no heat pump) defined in embodiment 9;
[0019] FIG. 8 illustrates the flow of an solar heating system (no heat pump) defined in FIG.7 with thermal storage and 2EA recuperators;FIG.9 - FIG. 19 Solar Air conditioning / Heating - Heat Pump
[0020] FIG. 9 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment including heat pump flow selector valve;Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0021] FIG. 10 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector with thermal storage in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 11 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector with 2EA recuperators in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 12 illustrates a combination of FIG.10 and FIG.ll solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector with thermal storage and 2EA recuperators in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0024] FIG. 13 illustrates the flow of an air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) without solar powered assist;
[0025] FIG. 14 illustrates the flow of a heat pump system (heat pump) without solar powered assist;
[0026] FIG. 15 illustrates the flow of a solar heating system (heat pump) with solar powered assist;
[0027] FIG. 16 illustrates the flow of a solar heating system (heat pump) same as FIG.15 with thermal storage;
[0028] FIG. 17 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a collector with 2EA recuperators with thermal storage in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 18 illustrates the flow of an air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with hot water heat exchanger;
[0030] FIG. 19 illustrates the flow of an air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with hot water heat exchanger and thermal storage;FIG.20 - FIG.25 Solar Air conditioning / Heating - Heat Pump with 2EA Expanders
[0031] FIG. 20 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA expanders according to an example embodiment including heat pump and flow valve;Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0032] FIG. 21 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA expanders with thermal storage according to an example embodiment including heat pump and flow valve;
[0033] FIG. 22 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA expanders and 2EA recuperators according to an example embodiment including heat pump and flow valve;
[0034] FIG. 23 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA expanders and 2EA recuperators and thermal storage according to an example embodiment including heat pump and flow selector valve;
[0035] FIG. 24 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA expanders and 2EA recuperators according to example embodiment;
[0036] FIG. 25 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA expanders and 2EA recuperators with thermal storage according to example embodiment;FIG.26 - FIG.30 Heat Pump - Collector heats Expander & Compressor
[0037] FIG. 26 illustrates a solar cooling system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA recuperators, collector heats both compressor discharge and expander inflow;
[0038] FIG. 27 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA recuperators, collector heats both compressor discharge and expander inflow;
[0039] FIG. 28 illustrates a solar cooling system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA recuperators, collector heats both compressor discharge and expander inflow and thermal storage and heat exchanger (HX);
[0040] FIG. 29 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a collector in conjunction with 2EA recuperators, collector heats both compressor discharge and expander inflow and thermal storage and heat exchanger (HX);Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0041] FIG. 30 illustrates a heat mode system (heat pump) without solar assist a collector in conjunction with 2EA recuperators, collector heats both compressor discharge and expander inflow and thermal storage and heat exchanger (HX);FIG.31 - FIG.35 Hybrid PV Collector
[0042] FIG. 31 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA recuperators in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0043] FIG. 32 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA recuperators in conjunction with thermal storage;
[0044] FIG. 33 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA recuperators in conjunction;
[0045] FIG. 34 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA recuperators in conjunction with thermal storage;
[0046] FIG. 35 illustrates a solar energy system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA recuperators in conjunction;FIG.36 - FIG.41 Hybrid PV Collector with Dual expanders
[0047] FIG. 36 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA expanders;
[0048] FIG. 37 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA expanders and generator;
[0049] FIG. 38 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with thermal storage;
[0050] FIG. 39 illustrates a solar cooling system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA expanders q 2EA ecuperators;Atty. Docket No. 0765-012FIG. 40 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with 2EA recuperators and 2EA expanders;
[0051] FIG. 41 illustrates a solar heating system (heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with thermal storage and 2EA recuperators and 2EA expanders;FIG.42 - FIG.46 Hybrid PV Collector with no heat pump
[0052] FIG. 42 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage in conjunction with an expander according to an example embodiment;
[0053] FIG. 43 illustrates a solar air conditioning cooling system (no heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with battery storage with thermal storage;
[0054] FIG. 44 illustrates a solar heating system (no heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with 2EA recuperators with thermal storage;
[0055] FIG. 45 illustrates a solar heating system (no heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with thermal storage;
[0056] FIG. 46 illustrates a solar energy system (no heat pump) with a hybrid PVT (Photovoltaic & Thermal) collector with thermal storage;DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0057] In the following description, numerous specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments. The embodiments can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the example embodiments.
[0058] Reference throughout this specification to an “example embodiment" or “example embodiments” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic as described is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearances of these terms and similar phrases in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. The headings provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.
[0059] A system in accordance with an example embodiment is described with reference to FIG. 1. Subsystem 100 includes a condenser 105 connected to receiver 115, liquid pump 130, recuperator 140, collector 150 and expander 160. Subsystem 101 can include, but is not limited to, air handler 170 and compressor 180 and electric motor / genertor 175 and clutches 185 & 186. The sub systems may be "connected" by shaft 190.
[0060] Sub-system 100 can provide energy to supplement or replace the energy needed to operate Sub-system 101 via shaft 190 as described below.
[0061] Sub-systems 100 and 101 are illustrated as being non-overlapping with a common shaft 190. In some embodiments, as illustrated and described further below, some components (additional to the shaft) may be common to, or utilized by, both sub-systems. The division of the system into multiple (i.e. two) sub-systems is provided to illustrate the flow from condenser along two separate paths.
[0062] Liquid refrigerant from condenser 105 can flow via a receiver 115 to a liquid pump 130. Receiver 115 may function as a reservoir or an accumulator that can remove any air pockets or bubbles in the refrigerant for example.
[0063] The liquid can be "pumped" to a recuperator 140. Heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant in recuperator 140 (dashed line between B and C) which then flows to collector 150. Collector 150 can be a solar thermal collector for example. The source of the heat added in the recuperator is described below. Collector 150 heats the liquid further and changes state to vapor. The vapor can then flow to expander 160. Expander 160 can be a high temperature (HT) expander for example. Energy released from expansion of the vapor within expander 160 can spin shaft 190.
[0064] The vapor output from the expander 160 may then flow thru recuperator 140 (dashed line between E and F) in which heat from the vapor may be transferred. The transferred heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant as it passes thru the recuperator 140 (dashed line between B and C). The vapor output from the recuperator may then flow back to condenser 105.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012The vapor changes state to liquid in the condenser due to heat transfer (hot condenser vapor heat to outside air). The process may then be repeated.
[0065] In sub- system 101, liquid refrigerant from condenser 105 may flow to air handler 170. The refrigerant may change state to vapor. The vapor then flows to compressor 180. The vapor exits the compressor 180 at a higher temperature and pressure. The compressed vapor may then flow back to condenser 105. As heat is transferred / removed in / by condenser 105. the temperature of the vapor decreases and the vapor changes state to liquid. The process may then be repeated.
[0066] The spinning of the shaft 190 from energy released from expander 160 can be used to operate the compressor 180 instead of the backup electrical motor / generator 175 (i.e. supplement other sources of energy for the compressor such as electricity for example).Expander 160 can be a single or a multi-stage expander. The compressor 180 can include a backup electrical motor / generator and clutch system.
[0067] Each of systems in corresponding FIGs. 2 to 8 illustrate variations of the system 100 of FIG. 1. For each of these systems, these variations are described without repeating the description of common features highlighted above with reference to system 100 of FIG. 1.
[0068] In sub-system 100 of FIG.2, the vapor output from the collector 150 flows into thermal storage 142 before entering expander 160.
[0069] In sub-system 100 of FIG.3. the vapor output from the recuperator 140 flows into the second recuperator 145 that includes heat transfer from discharge of compressor 180 (dashed line between J and K) before entering collector 150.
[0070] In sub-system 100 of FIG.4, is identical with FIG.3 with the addition of thermal storage 142.
[0071] In sub-system 100 of FIG. 5, is identical with FIG.l illustrating the flow without solar assit.
[0072] In sub-system 100 of FIG.6, is identical with FIG.3 illustrating the flow without solar assit.
[0073] In sub-system 100 of FIG.7, is illustrating the solar heat system with discharge of collector 150 into two way valve 195 directly to airhandler 170 flowing into condenser 105.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0074] In sub-system 100 of FIG.8, is illustrating the solar heat system of FIG.7 with two recuperators 140 flowing into recuperator 145 into collector 150 discharge of collector 150 flows into two way valve 195 directly to airhandler 170 flowing into condenser 105.
[0075] A system in accordance with an example embodiment is described with reference to FIG. 9. Subsystem 200 includes a condenser 205 connected to receiver 215, liquid pump 230, recuperator 240, collector 250 and expander 260. Subsystem 201 can include, but is not limited to, air handler 270 and Heat Pump flow valve 265 and compressor 280 and electric motor / genertor 275 and clutches 285 & 286. The sub systems may be "connected" by shaft 290.
[0076] In sub-system 201 of FIG.9 liquid refrigerant from condenser 205 may flow to air handler 270. The refrigerant may change state to vapor. The vapor then flows based the position of Heat Pump (HP) flow valve 265 to compressor 280. The vapor exits the compressor 280 at a higher temperature and pressure. The compressed vapor may then flow back through HP flow valve 265 to condenser 205. As heat is transferred / removed in / by condenser 205, the temperature of the vapor decreases and the vapor changes state to liquid. The process may then be repeated.
[0077] The spinning of the shaft 290 from energy released from expander 260 can be used to operate the compressor 280 instead of the backup electrical motor / generator 275 (i.e. supplement other sources of energy for the compressor such as electricity for example).Expander 260 can be a single or a multi-stage expander. The compressor 280 can include a backup electrical motor / generator 275 and clutch system 285 & 286.
[0078] Sub-system 200 can provide energy to supplement or replace the energy needed to operate Sub-system 201 via shaft 290 as described below.
[0079] Sub-systems 200 and 201 are illustrated as being non-overlapping with a common shaft 290. In some embodiments, as illustrated and described further below, some components (additional to the shaft) may be common to. or utilized by. both sub-systems. The division of the system into multiple (i.e. two) sub-systems is provided to illustrate the flow from condenser along two separate paths.
[0080] Liquid refrigerant from condenser 205 can flow via a receiver 215 to a liquid pump 230. Receiver 215 may function as a reservoir or an accumulator that can remove any air pockets or bubbles in the refrigerant for example.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0081] The liquid can be "pumped" to a recuperator 240. Heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant in recuperator 240 (dashed line between B and C) which then flows to collector 250. Collector 250 can be a solar thermal collector for example. The source of the heat added in the recuperator is described below. Collector 250 heats the liquid further and changes state to vapor. The vapor can then flow to expander 260. Expander 260 can be a high temperature (HT) expander for example. Energy released from expansion of the vapor within expander 260 can spin shaft 290.
[0082] The vapor output from the expander 260 may then flow thru recuperator 240 (dashed line between F and G) in which heat from the vapor may be transferred. The transferred heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant as it passes thru the recuperator 240 (dashed line between B and C). The vapor output from the recuperator may then flow back to condenser 205. The vapor changes state to liquid in the condenser due to heat transfer (hot condenser vapor heat to outside air). The process may then be repeated.
[0083] Each of systems in corresponding FIGs. 10 to 19 illustrate variations of the system 200 of FIG. 9. For each of these systems, these variations are described without repeating the description of common features highlighted above with reference to subsystems 200 and 201 of FIG. 9.
[0084] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 10, the vapor output from the collector 250 flows into thermal storage 242 before entering expander 260.
[0085] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 11, the vapor output from the recuperator 245 flows into the second recuperator 240 that includes heat transfer from discharge of compressor 280 (dashed line between J and K) before entering collector 250.
[0086] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 12, is identical with FIG.l 1 with the addition of thermal storage 242.
[0087] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 13, is identical with FIG.9 illustrating cooling flow without solar as sit.
[0088] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 14, is identical with FIG.12 illustrating heating Heat pump mode without solar assit and HP flow valve in heat mode position.
[0089] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 15, is identical with FIG.14 illustrating solar heating mode.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0090] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 16, is identical with FIG.15 illustrating solar heating mode with thermal storage.
[0091] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 17, is identical with FIG.12 illustrating solar heating mode with thermal storage.
[0092] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 18, is identical with FIG.1 illustrating additiona heat exchanger HX 262 connected to HP flow valve 265 and condenser 205
[0093] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 17, is identical with FIG.12 with the addition of thermal storage 242
[0094] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 18, is identical to FIG.9 with an added water heat exchanger (HX) 262.
[0095] In sub-system 200 of FIG. 19, is identical to FIG.18 with an added thermal storage 242.
[0096] A system in accordance with an example embodiment is described with reference to FIG.20. Subsystem 300 includes a condenser 305 connected to receiver 315, liquid pump 330, recuperator 340 and recuperator 341, collector 350 and expander 360 and expander 363. Subsystem 301 can include, but is not limited to, air handler 370 and Heat Pump flow valve 365 and compressor 380 and electric motor / genertor 375 and clutches 385 & 386 and valve 387, valve 388, valve 389. The sub systems may be "connected" by shaft 390.
[0097] In sub-system 301 of FIG.20 liquid refrigerant from condenser 305 may flow to air handler 370. The refrigerant may change state to vapor. The vapor then flows based the position of Heat Pump (HP) flow valve 365 and valve 387 and valve 388 to compressor 380. The vapor exits the compressor 380 at a higher temperature and pressure. The compressed vapor may then flow back through HP flow valve 365 and valve 389 to condenser 305. As heat is transferred / removed in / by condenser 305, the temperature of the vapor decreases and the vapor changes state to liquid. The process may then be repeated.
[0098] The spinning of the shaft 390 from energy released from expander 360 can be used to operate the compressor 380 instead of the backup electrical motor / generator 375 (i.e.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012supplement other sources of energy for the compressor such as electricity for example).Expander 360 and expander 363 can be a single or a multi-stage expander. The compressor 380 can include a backup electrical motor / generator 375 and clutch system 385 & 386.
[0099] Sub-system 300 can provide energy to supplement or replace the energy needed to operate Sub-system 301 via shaft 390 as described below.
[0100] Sub-systems 300 and 301 are illustrated as being non-overlapping with a common shaft 390. In some embodiments, as illustrated and described further below, some components (additional to the shaft) may be common to, or utilized by, both sub-systems. The division of the system into multiple (i.e. two) sub-systems is provided to illustrate the flow from condenser along two separate paths that combine at the condenser 305.
[0101] Liquid refrigerant from condenser 305 can flow via a receiver 315 to a liquid pump 330. Receiver 315 may function as a reservoir or an accumulator that can remove any air pockets or bubbles in the refrigerant for example.
[0102] The liquid can be ''pumped1' to a recuperator 340. Heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant in recuperator 340 (dashed line between B and C) which then flows to collector 350. Collector 350 can be a solar thermal collector for example. The source of the heat added in the recuperator is described below. Collector 350 heats the liquid further and changes state to vapor. The vapor can then flow to expander 360. Expander 360 can be a high temperature (HT) expander for example. Energy released from expansion of the vapor within expander 360 can spin shaft 390.
[0103] The vapor output from the expander 360 may then flow thru recuperator 340 (dashed line between F and G) in which heat from the vapor may be transferred. The transferred heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant as it passes thru the recuperator 340 (dashed line between B and C). The vapor output from the recuperator may enter expander(2) 363 then flow back to condenser 305. The vapor changes state to liquid in the condenser due to heat transfer (hot condenser vapor heat to outside air). The process may then be repeated.
[0104] Each of systems in corresponding FIGs. 21 to 25 illustrate variations of the system 300 of FIG. 20. For each of these systems, these variations are described without repeating the description of common features highlighted above with reference to subsystems 300 and 301 of FIG. 20.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0105] In sub-system 300 of FIG.21, the illustration is identical to FIG. 20 with the addition of thermal storage.
[0106] In sub-system 300 of FIG.22, the vapor output from the recuperator 341 flows into the second recuperator 340 that includes heat transfer from discharge of expander 363 (dashed line between I and J) before entering collector 350.
[0107] In sub-system 300 of FIG.23, is identical with FIG.22 with the addition of thermal storage 342.
[0108] In sub-system 300 of FIG.24, is identical with FIG.22 illustrating heating flow without solar as sit.
[0109] In sub-system 300 of FIG.25, is identical with FIG.24 illustrating heating Heat pump mode with the addition of thermal storage.
[0110] A system in accordance with an example embodiment is described with reference to FIG.26. Subsystem 400 includes a condenser 405 connected to receiver 415. liquid pump 430, recuperator 440 and recuperator 441, collector 450 and expander 460 and expander 463. Subsystem 401 can include, but is not limited to, air handler 470 and Heat Pump flow valve 465 and compressor 480 and electric motor / genertor 475 and clutches 485 & 486 and valve 487, valve 488, valve 489. The sub systems may be "connected" by shaft 490.
[0111] In sub-system 401 of FIG.26 liquid refrigerant from condenser 405 may flow to air handler 470. The refrigerant may change state to vapor. The vapor then flows based the position of Heat Pump (HP) flow valve 465 and valve 487 and valve 488 to compressor 480 and water heat exchanger (HX) 462.The vapor exits the compressor 480 at a higher temperature and pressure. The compressed vapor may then flow back through HP flow valve 465 and valve 489 to the water HX 462 before entering the condenser 405. As heat is transferred / removed in / by condenser 405, the temperature of the vapor decreases and the vapor changes state to liquid. The process may then be repeated.
[0112] The spinning of the shaft 490 from energy released from expander 460 can be used to operate the compressor 480 instead of the backup electrical motor / generator 475 (i.e. supplement other sources of energy for the compressor such as electricity for example).Atty. Docket No. 0765-012Expander 460 can be a single or a multi-stage expander. The compressor 480 can include a backup electrical motor / generator 475 and clutch system 485 & 486.
[0113] Sub-system 400 can provide energy to supplement or replace the energy needed to operate Sub-system 401 via shaft 490 as described below.
[0114] Sub-systems 400 and 401 are illustrated as being non-overlapping with a common shaft 490. In some embodiments, as illustrated and described further below, some components (additional to the shaft) may be common to, or utilized by, both sub-systems. The division of the system into multiple (i.e. two) sub-systems is provided to illustrate the flow from condenser along two separate paths that combine at the condenser 405.
[0115] Liquid refrigerant from condenser 405 can flow via a receiver 415 to a liquid pump 430. Receiver 415 may function as a reservoir or an accumulator that can remove any air pockets or bubbles in the refrigerant for example.
[0116] The liquid can be "pumped" to a recuperator 440. Heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant in recuperator 440 (dashed line between B and C) which then flows to collector 450. Collector 450 can be a solar thermal collector for example. The source of the heat added in the recuperator is described below. Collector 450 heats the liquid further and changes state to vapor. The vapor can then flow to expander 460. Expander 460 can be a high temperature (HT) expander for example. Energy released from expansion of the vapor within expander 460 can spin shaft 490.
[0117] The vapor output from the expander 460 may then flow thru recuperator 440 (dashed line between F and G) in which heat from the vapor may be transferred. The transferred heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant as it passes thru the recuperator 440 (dashed line between B and C). The vapor output from the recuperator 440 then flow back to condenser 405. The vapor changes state to liquid in the condenser due to heat transfer (hot condenser vapor heat to outside air). The process may then be repeated.
[0118] Each of systems in corresponding FIGs. 27 to 30 illustrate variations of the system 400 of FIG. 26. For each of these systems, these variations are described without repeating the description of common features highlighted above with reference to subsystems 400 and 401 of FIG. 26.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0119] In sub-system 400 of FIG.27, the illustration represents the heat mode and is identical to FIG. 26 with the exception of the HP flow valve is in the solar heat mode position.
[0120] In sub-system 400 of FIG.28, the illustration is identical to FIG. 26 with the addition of the thermal storage.
[0121] In sub-system 400 of FIG.29, the illustration represents the heat mode and is identical to FIG. 28 with the exception of the HP flow valve is in the solar heat mode position.
[0122] In sub-system 400 of FIG.30, the illustration represents the heat mode and is identical to FIG. 28 without solar assist running as a heat ump.
[0123] A system in accordance with an example embodiment is described with reference to FIG.31. Subsystem 500 includes a condenser 505 connected to receiver 515. liquid pump 530, recuperator 540 and recuperator 541, hybrid collector 550, battery 598 and expander 560 and expander 563. Subsystem 501 can include, but is not limited to, air handler 570 and Heat Pump flow valve 565 and compressor 580 and electric motor / genertor 575 and clutches 585 & 586 and valve 587, valve 588, valve 589. The sub systems may be "connected" by shaft 590.
[0124] In sub-system 501 of FIG.31 liquid refrigerant from condenser 505 may flow to air handler 570. The refrigerant may change state to vapor. The vapor then flows based the position of Heat Pump (HP) flow valve 565 and valve 587 and valve 588 to compressor 580 and water heat exchanger (HX) 562.The vapor exits the compressor 580 at a higher temperature and pressure. The compressed vapor may then flow back through HP flow valve 565 and valve 589 to the water HX 562 before entering the condenser 505. As heat is transferred / removed in / by condenser 505, the temperature of the vapor decreases and the vapor changes state to liquid. The process may then be repeated.
[0125] The spinning of the shaft 590 from energy released from expander 560 can be used to operate the compressor 580 instead of the backup electrical motor / generator 575 (i.e. supplement other sources of energy for the compressor such as electricity for example).Expander 560 can be a single or a multi-stage expander. The compressor 580 can include a backup electrical motor / generator 575 and clutch system 585 & 586.
[0126] Sub-system 500 can provide energy to a battery 598 to supplement or replace the energy needed to operate Sub-system 501 via shaft 590 as described below.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0127] Sub-systems 500 and 501 are illustrated as being non-overlapping with a common shaft 590. In some embodiments, as illustrated and described further below, some components (additional to the shaft) may be common to, or utilized by, both sub-systems. The division of the system into multiple (i.e. two) sub-systems is provided to illustrate the flow from condenser along two separate paths that combine at the condenser 505.
[0128] Liquid refrigerant from condenser 505 can flow via a receiver 515 to a liquid pump 530. Receiver 515 may function as a reservoir or an accumulator that can remove any air pockets or bubbles in the refrigerant for example.
[0129] The liquid can be "pumped" to a recuperator 540. Heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant in recuperator 545 (dashed line between B and C) which then flows to recuperator 540 then flows to collector 550. Collector 550 can be a solar thermal collector for example. The source of the heat added in the recuperator is described below. Collector 550 heats the liquid further and changes state to vapor. The vapor can then flow to expander 560. Expander 560 can be a high temperature (HT) expander for example. Energy released from expansion of the vapor within expander 560 can spin shaft 590.
[0130] The vapor output from the expander 560 may then flow thru recuperator 540 (dashed line between F and G) in which heat from the vapor may be transferred. The transferred heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant as it passes thru the recuperator 540 (dashed line between C and D). The vapor output from the recuperator 540 then flow back to condenser 505. The vapor changes state to liquid in the condenser due to heat transfer (hot condenser vapor heat to outside air). The process may then be repeated.
[0131] Each of systems in corresponding FIGs. 32 to 35 illustrate variations of the system 500 of FIG. 31. For each of these systems, these variations are described without repeating the description of common features highlighted above with reference to subsystems 500 and 501 of FIG. 31.
[0132] In sub-system 500 of FIG.32, the vapor output from the collector 550 flows into thermal storage 542 before entering expander 560.
[0133] In sub-system 500 of FIG.33, the illustration represents the heat mode and is identical to FIG. 31 with the exception of the HP flow valve is in the solar heat mode position.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0134] In sub-system 500 of FIG.34, the illustration represents the heat mode and is identical to FIG. 33 with the addition of thermal storage.
[0135] In sub-system 500 of FIG.35, the illustration represents the energy mode where the expander 560 is powering generator 575 by using clutched 585 and 586 to disengage compressor 580 and engage generator 586 spinning shaft 590.
[0136] A system in accordance with an example embodiment is described with reference to FIG.36. Subsystem 600 includes a condenser 605 connected to receiver 615, liquid pump 630, recuperator 640, hybrid collector 650, battery 698 and expander 660 and expander 663. Subsystem 601 can include, but is not limited to, air handler 670 and Heat Pump flow valve 665 and compressor 680 and electric motor / genertor 675 and clutches 685 & 686 and valve 687, valve 688, valve 689. The sub systems may be "connected" by shaft 690.
[0137] In sub-system 601 of FIG.36 liquid refrigerant from condenser 605 may flow to air handler 670. The refrigerant may change state to vapor. The vapor then flows based the position of Heat Pump (HP) flow valve 665 and valve 687 and valve 688 to compressor 680 and water heat exchanger (HX) 662.The vapor exits the compressor 680 at a higher temperature and pressure. The compressed vapor may then flow back through HP flow valve 665 and valve 689 to the water HX 662 before entering the condenser 605. As heat is transferred / removed in / by condenser 605, the temperature of the vapor decreases and the vapor changes state to liquid. The process may then be repeated.
[0138] The spinning of the shaft 690 from energy released from expander 660 can be used to operate the compressor 680 instead of the backup electrical motor / generator 675 (i.e. supplement other sources of energy for the compressor such as electricity for example).Expander 660 can be a single or a multi-stage expander. The compressor 680 can include a backup electrical motor / generator 675 and clutch system 685 & 686.
[0139] Sub-system 600 can provide energy to a battery 698 to supplement or replace the energy needed to operate Sub-system 601 via shaft 690 as described below.
[0140] Sub-systems 600 and 601 are illustrated as being non-overlapping with a common shaft 690. In some embodiments, as illustrated and described further below, some components (additional to the shaft) may be common to, or utilized by, both sub-systems. The division of theAtty. Docket No. 0765-012system into multiple (i.e. two) sub-systems is provided to illustrate the flow from condenser along two separate paths that combine at the condenser 605.
[0141] Liquid refrigerant from condenser 605 can flow via a receiver 615 to a liquid pump 630. Receiver 615 may function as a reservoir or an accumulator that can remove any air pockets or bubbles in the refrigerant for example.
[0142] The liquid can be ''pumped1' to a recuperator6540. Heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant in recuperator 640 (dashed line between B and C) which then flows to collector 650. Collector 650 can be a solar thermal collector for example. The source of the heat added in the recuperator is described below. Collector 650 heats the liquid further and changes state to vapor. The vapor can then flow to expander 660. Expander 660 can be a high temperature (HT) expander for example. Energy released from expansion of the vapor within expander 660 can spin shaft 690.
[0143] The vapor output from the expander 660 may then flow thru recuperator 640 (dashed line between F and G) in which heat from the vapor may be transferred. The transferred heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant as it passes thru the recuperator 640 (dashed line between B and C). The vapor output from the recuperator 640 then flow back to condenser 605. The vapor changes state to liquid in the condenser due to heat transfer (hot condenser vapor heat to outside air). The process may then be repeated.
[0144] Each of systems in corresponding FIGs. 37 to 41 illustrate variations of the system 600 of FIG. 36. For each of these systems, these variations are described without repeating the description of common features highlighted above with reference to subsystems 600 and 601 of FIG. 36.
[0145] In sub-system 600 of FIG.37, The expander 663 is not mounted on shaft 690 and is attached to generator 676.
[0146] In sub-system 600 of FIG.38, hybrid collector 650 flows into thermal storage 642.
[0147] In sub-system 600 of FIG.39, the illustration represents the heat mode and is identical to FIG. 33 with the addition of thermal storage.
[0148] In sub-system 600 of FIG.40, the illustration represents the heat mode and is identical to FIG. 39 with the HP flow valve 665 in the opposite position.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0149] In sub-system 600 of FIG.41, this illustration is idetical to FIG. 40 with the addition of thermal storge 642.
[0150] A system in accordance with an example embodiment is described with reference to FIG.42. Subsystem 700 includes a condenser 705 connected to receiver 715, liquid pump 730, recuperator 740, hybrid collector 750, battery 798 and expander 760. Subsystem 701 can include, but is not limited to, air handler 770 and compressor 780 and electric motor / genertor 775 and clutches 785 & 786 and valve 787, valve 788, valve 789. The sub systems may be "connected" by shaft 790.
[0151] In sub-system 701 of FIG.42 liquid refrigerant from condenser 705 may flow to air handler 770. The refrigerant will change state to vapor. The vapor then flows based the and valve 796 to compressor 780 and.The vapor exits the compressor 780 at a higher temperature and pressure. The compressed vapor may then flow to condenser 705. As heat is transferred / removed in / by condenser 705, the temperature of the vapor decreases and the vapor changes state to liquid. The process may then be repeated.
[0152] The spinning of the shaft 790 from energy released from expander 760 can be used to operate the compressor 780 instead of the backup electrical motor / generator 775 (i.e. supplement other sources of energy for the compressor such as electricity for example).Expander 760 can be a single or a multi-stage expander. The compressor 780 can include a backup electrical motor / generator 775 and clutch system 785 & 786.
[0153] Sub-system 700 can provide energy to a battery 798 to supplement or replace the energy needed to operate Sub-system 701 via shaft 790 as described below.
[0154] Sub-systems 700 and 701 are illustrated as being non-overlapping with a common shaft 790. In some embodiments, as illustrated and described further below, some components (additional to the shaft) may be common to, or utilized by, both sub-systems. The division of the system into multiple (i.e. two) sub-systems is provided to illustrate the flow from condenser along two separate paths that combine at the condenser 705.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0155] Liquid refrigerant from condenser 705 can flow via a receiver 715 to a liquid pump 730. Receiver 715 may function as a reservoir or an accumulator that can remove any air pockets or bubbles in the refrigerant for example.
[0156] The liquid can be "pumped" to a recuperator 740. Heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant in recuperator 740 (dashed line between B and C) which then flows to collector 750. Collector 750 can be a solar thermal collector for example. The source of the heat added in the recuperator is described below. Collector 750 heats the liquid further and changes state to vapor. The vapor can then flow to expander 760. Expander 760 can be a high temperature (HT) expander for example. Energy released from expansion of the vapor within expander 660 can spin shaft 790.
[0157] The vapor output from the expander 760 may then flow thru recuperator 740 (dashed line between E and F) in which heat from the vapor may be transferred. The transferred heat may be added to the liquid refrigerant as it passes thru the recuperator 740 (dashed line between B and C). The vapor output from the recuperator 740 then flow back to condenser 705. The vapor changes state to liquid in the condenser due to heat transfer (hot condenser vapor heat to outside air). The process may then be repeated.
[0158] Each of systems in corresponding FIGs. 42 to 46 illustrate variations of the system 700 of FIG. 42. For each of these systems, these variations are described without repeating the description of common features highlighted above with reference to subsystems 700 and 701 of FIG. 42.
[0159] In sub-system 700 of FIG.43, this illustration is idetical to FIG.42 with the addition of thermal storage 742.
[0160] In sub-system 700 of FIG.44, this illustration is identical to FIG.42 with the addition of two way valve 795. This is a heat solution that bypasses both the expander and the compressor and flows into the air handler.
[0161] In sub-system 700 of FIG.44, this illustration is identical to FIG.42 with the addition of two way valve 795. This is a heat solution that bypasses both the expander and the compressor and flows into the air handler.
[0162] In sub-system 700 of FIG.45, this illustration is identical to FIG.44 with the addition of thermal storage 742.Atty. Docket No. 0765-012
[0163] In sub-system 700 of FIG.46, this illustration is identical to FIG.45, This is the energy mode where the clutches 785 and 786 are engaged bypassing the compressor 780 and engaging the generator 775
[0164] In each of FIGs. 1 to 11, the letters within ovals (such as A, B, . . . , M for example) are included to indicate a point between various elements. The state of the refrigerant, temperature and pressure can be measured at each of these points for example. An example of pressure and temperature values for system 100 of FIG. 1 are listed in Table 1 below.Table 1
[0165] Systems as illustrated and described above can generate electricity in addition to providing the electrical energy for operating the air conditioner associated with the HVAC circuit. Electricity can also be generated without having an associated air conditioner. Heat generated in the ORC circuit can be used directly to provide heating.
[0166] Further, in the description and the appended claims the meaning of "comprising" is not to be understood as excluding other elements or steps. Further, "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality, and a single unit may fulfill the functions of several means recited in the claims.
[0167] The above description of illustrated embodiments and what is described in theAtty. Docket No. 0765-012Abstract below, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. Although specific embodiments of and examples are described herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as will be recognized by those skilled in relevant art. Such modifications are intended to be covered by the appended claims.
[0168] The various embodiments described above can be combined to provide further embodiments. Aspects of the embodiments can be modified, if necessary, to employ concepts of the various patents, applications and publications to provide yet further embodiments. These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of the above-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should be construed to include all possible embodiments along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, the claims are not limited by the disclosure.
Claims
Atty. Docket No. 0765-012What is claimed is:
1. A hybrid air conditioning energy system comprising:a plurality of subsystems wherein a first one of the plurality of subsystems comprises:a low global Warming Potential refrigerant (GWP <10). a condenser, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector and an expander whereinthe liquid pump receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser and pumps the liquid refrigerant to the recuperator,the recuperator heats the liquid refrigerant a first time that flows to the collector,the collector heats the liquid refrigerant a second time resulting in change of state of the liquid refrigerant to a vapor that flows to the expander, the expander releases energy from the vapor and the vapor flows to the recuperator where heat from the vapor is transferred and the vapor flows to the condenser, andthe condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid; anda second one of the plurality of subsystems comprises:the condenser, an air handler and a compressor and an electric motor / generator whereinthe air handler receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser and changes state of the refrigerant to a vapor and the vapor flows to the compressor, the compressor outputs the vapor to the condenser, andthe condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid; whereinenergy released from the expander is utilized to spin a shaft connected to the compressor.Atty. Docket No. 0765-0122. A hybrid heat pump and energy system including cooling and heating and energy comprising:a plurality of subsystems each associated with a respective condenser wherein a first one of the plurality of subsystems comprises:a condenser, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector and an expander wherein the liquid pump receives liquid refrigerant from the first condenser and pumps the liquid refrigerant to the recuperator,the recuperator heats the liquid refrigerant a first time and the liquid refrigerant flows to a collector,the collector heats the liquid refrigerant a second time resulting in change of state of the liquid refrigerant to a vapor and the vapor flows to the expander,the expander releases energy from the vapor and the vapor flows to the recuperator where heat from the vapor is transferred and the vapor is returned to the first condenser, andthe condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid; anda second one of the plurality of cooling subsystems comprises:the condenser, an air handler a Heat Pump flow valve a compressor with an electrical motor / generator and clutch system whereinthe air handler receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser via the Heat Pump flow valve and changes state of the refrigerant to a vapor and the vapor flows to the compressor, the compressor returns the vapor through the Heat Pump flow valve to the condenser, andthe condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid; whereinenergy released from the expander is utilized to spin a shaft connected to the compressor,a second one of the plurality of heating subsystems comprises:Atty. Docket No. 0765-012the condenser, an air handler a Heat Pump flow valve a compressor with an electrical motor / generator and clutch system whereinthe air handler receives vapor refrigerant from the compressor via the Heat Pump flow valve providing heat to the air handler the refrigerant returns to the condenser and flows through the Heat Pump flow valve before returning to the compresor inlet; whereinenergy released from the expander is utilized to spin a shaft connected to the compressor.
3. A solar heating system comprising:a plurality of subsystems wherein a first one of the plurality of subsystems comprises:a low global Warming Potential refrigerant (GWP <10), a condenser, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector a two way valve and an expander wherein the liquid pump receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser and pumps the liquid refrigerant to the recuperator,the recuperator flows to the collector,the collector heats the liquid refrigerant a resulting in change of state of the liquid refrigerant to a vapor that bypasses the expander through the two way valve to flow directly to the second subsystema second one of the plurality of subsystems comprises:the condenser, an air handler and a compressor with an electric motor / generator a and clutch and valve system whereinrefrigerant from the two way valve flows directly to the air handler used to transfer heat to the exposed area. The refrigerant is in vapor form and flows to condenser to change to a liquid refrigerant and restart the cycle, wherein the expander and compressor are both bypassed and the shaft does not rotate and energy released from the collector is utilized to transfer heat from the refrigerant directly to the air handler.Atty. Docket No. 0765-0124. A hybrid heat pump and energy system including cooling and heating and energy comprising:a plurality of subsystems each associated with a respective condenser wherein a first one of the plurality of subsystems comprises:a condenser, a liquid pump, a recuperator, a collector and an expander wherein the liquid pump receives liquid refrigerant from the first condenser and pumps the liquid refrigerant to the recuperator,the recuperator heats the liquid refrigerant a first time and the liquid refrigerant flows to a collector,the collector heats the liquid refrigerant a second time resulting in change of state of the liquid refrigerant to a vapor and the vapor flows based on the Heat Pump flow valve position to the expander, the expander releases energy from the vapor and the vapor flows to the recuperator where heat from the vapor is transferred and the vapor is returned to the first condenser, andthe condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid; anda second one of the plurality of cooling subsystems comprises:the condenser, the collector, the recuperator, an air handler a Heat Pump flow valve a compressor with an electrical motor / generator and clutch system wherein the air handler receives liquid refrigerant from the condenser via the Heat Pump flow valve and changes state of the refrigerant to a vapor and the vapor flows through the Heat Pump flow valve to the compressor inlet, the compressor discharge exits into the Heat Pump flow valve and enters the collector the vapor is superheated further and flows into the recuperator to transfer additional heat to the fluid entering the expander wherein the vapor flows to the condenser, and the condenser transfers heat from the vapor and changes state of the vapor to liquid; wherein energy released from the expander is utilized to spin a shaft connected to the compressor;Atty. Docket No. 0765-012a second one of the plurality of heating subsystems comprises:the condenser, an air handler a Heat Pump flow valve a compressor with an electrical motor / generator and clutch system whereinthe air handler receives vapor refrigerant from the compressor via the Heat Pump flow valve providing heat to the air handler the refrigerant returns to the condenser and flows through the Heat Pump flow valve before returning to the compresor inlet; whereinenergy released from the expander is utilized to spin a shaft connected to thecompressor.