Cogeneration systems and methods for generating heating and electricity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centralized power stations have inefficiencies in generating and distributing electricity, leading to thermal energy losses and fluctuations in electricity supply, which can result in power blackouts and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A cogeneration system that combines a heat engine and a heat pump to provide heating, cooling, and electricity to an enclosure, using heat transfer fluids to efficiently transfer thermal energy and operate independently or simultaneously, allowing for off-grid operation and energy storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If centralized power stations generate and distribute electricity, then electricity supply is provided to consumers, but thermal energy losses occur and reliability decreases due to fluctuations and power blackouts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized power generation system into distributed micro-grids that operate independently or in coordination. Each micro-grid segment can function autonomously, eliminating the single point of failure problem and reducing transmission losses by generating power locally near consumption points.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables communities to generate their own electricity through local prime movers and generators, reducing dependence on centralized power stations. This self-service approach allows local energy production that eliminates thermal energy losses during long-distance transmission and provides reliable power during grid failures.
2Power
If heat engines are used to generate electricity, then electrical energy is produced, but thermal energy is lost without useful application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines heat engine-based electricity generation with thermal energy utilization systems, creating a cogeneration system that simultaneously produces both electrical and thermal energy. This merging of functions ensures that thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted is captured and used for heating or cooling applications, significantly improving overall energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system design allows the heat engine to serve multiple functions: generating electricity through the generator while simultaneously providing thermal energy for heating or cooling through heat exchangers. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate systems and maximizes the useful output from the fuel input.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enhances energy efficiency, reduces reliance on centralized power, and provides reliable heating, cooling, and electricity, while minimizing energy losses and costs by locally generating thermal and electrical energy.
Implementation Method 1
the first conduit may be constructed and arranged to transfer the first heat transfer fluid from the heat engine to the enclosure such that thermal energy is transferred from the first heat transfer fluid to the enclosure to provide heating to the enclosure
Implementation Method 2
the first conduit may be constructed and arranged to transfer the first heat transfer fluid from the heat engine to the enclosure such that thermal energy is transferred from the first heat transfer fluid to the enclosure
Implementation Method 3
the third conduit may be constructed and arranged to transfer the second heat transfer fluid from the heat pump to the enclosure such that thermal energy is absorbed by the second heat transfer fluid from the enclosure to provide cooling to the enclosure
Implementation Method 4
Centralized power stations typically process fuel (e.g., coal, natural gas, nuclear, oil,) to generate thermal energy which drives a heat engine to produce mechanical work
Implementation Method 5
These power stations may include a prime mover, such as a steam or gas turbine, to accomplish work
Implementation Method 6
The prime mover is commonly coupled to a generator to convert mechanical work into electricity. The generator may produce electricity in response to movement of the prime mover
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods utilize a cogeneration system for providing heating, cooling, and/or electricity to an enclosure. The system includes a heat engine for heating and supplying electricity to the enclosure. Coupled to the heat engine is a first conduit configured to transfer fluid from the heat engine to the enclosure to transfer thermal energy from the fluid to the enclosure. The system further includes a heat pump configured to supply at least heating and cooling to the enclosure. Coupled to the heat pump is at least a second conduit. The second conduit is configured to move fluid from the heat pump to the enclosure to transfer thermal energy from the fluid to the enclosure.