Solar Heat Collector Frame Segmentation to Reduce Current Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
In solar heat collecting devices, the routing of cables through frames with ferromagnetic materials can lead to induction field generation, causing current loss when electricity is used to heat the heat transfer fluid flow path.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a non-magnetic material, such as stainless steel, in the middle of closed loops within the ferromagnetic frame structure to prevent induction fields and reduce current loss, while maintaining a cost-effective use of ferromagnetic materials for the frame's main components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a cable is routed to penetrate a closed loop made of ferromagnetic columnar members in the frame, then the frame structure is simple and cost-effective, but an induction field is generated causing current loss
Solution Approach 1:
The closed loop made of ferromagnetic material is segmented by inserting a non-magnetic material section, dividing it into multiple magnetic circuits. This segmentation prevents the formation of a complete induction field while maintaining structural simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the ferromagnetic frame.
Solution Approach 2:
A non-magnetic material is introduced as an intermediary element within the closed loop of ferromagnetic material. This intermediary blocks the magnetic flux continuity, preventing induction field generation from affecting the cable, while allowing the ferromagnetic structure to remain for structural support.
2Strength
If ferromagnetic material is used for the entire frame, then structural strength is maximized, but induction fields are generated when cables penetrate closed loops
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure transitions from uniform ferromagnetic material to a composite structure where non-magnetic material is locally inserted at specific positions within the closed loop. This local quality change eliminates induction field generation at the cable penetration point while maintaining ferromagnetic material for overall structural strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame becomes a composite structure combining ferromagnetic material for structural strength and non-magnetic material for electromagnetic isolation. This composite approach simultaneously achieves mechanical strength requirements and eliminates harmful induction fields.
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
This configuration effectively minimizes current loss by eliminating induction fields within the cable routing, allowing for efficient heating of the heat transfer fluid flow path while optimizing space usage and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a reflecting mirror and the heat transfer fluid flow path are rotatably supported by a frame
Implementation Method 2
The heat transfer fluid flow path can be warmed by Joule heat at that time when the current flows
Implementation Method 3
When a current flows in the cable penetrating the closed loop of the frame, an induction field is generated in the closed loop by the current
Data Source
AI summary
A solar heat collecting device includes a heat transfer fluid flow path in which a heat transfer fluid that receives solar heat flows, a first frame (30) that supports the heat transfer fluid flow path, and a first cable (34) that causes a current to flow in the heat transfer fluid flow path. The first frame (30) has a closed loop (42) including a first member (40) made of a ferromagnetic material. The first cable (34) is routed to penetrate the closed loop (42). A second member (44) made of a non-magnetic material is provided in the middle of the closed loop (42).