Composite storage tank module and arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage tanks for heating systems in buildings leak heat, occupy significant space, and are difficult to install, service, and replace, with outdoor placement increasing heat loss and external influences.
Innovation Solution
A composite storage tank module made from self-supporting materials with equal coefficients of elasticity, such as polymers and organic fibers, designed to be embedded in building structures like double flooring or walls, allowing for modular, space-efficient installation and easy maintenance, with the ability to support weight and act as part of the building structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the storage tank is placed indoors within the building structure, then the space occupation inside the building increases, but the heat loss into the ambient environment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank is merged with the building structure itself, integrating the tank walls with the building's load-bearing or non-load-bearing elements. This combination allows the tank to occupy space that would otherwise be structural or void space, thereby reducing both heat loss to ambient and the effective space occupation within the building.
Solution Approach 2:
The building structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support and simultaneously acts as the storage tank containment. The walls or structural elements of the building double as the tank walls, eliminating the need for separate dedicated tank space and reducing heat transfer to ambient environment.
2Area of stationary object
If the storage tank is placed outdoors outside the building structure, then the space occupation inside the building decreases, but the heat loss into the ambient environment increases and external influences reduce life expectancy
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank is merged with the building structure, positioned within or integrated into walls, floors, or roof elements. This integration keeps the tank protected from external environmental influences while minimizing the occupation of usable building space, as the tank utilizes structural or void spaces rather than dedicated interior volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The building structure itself provides protective cushioning for the storage tank against external environmental factors such as temperature extremes, UV radiation, and physical damage. The structural elements act as a protective barrier before external influences can directly affect the tank, thereby extending its service life.
3Ease of manufacture
If the storage tank is made from metal or plastic materials, then the manufacturing and installation are straightforward, but the heat leakage into the ambient environment occurs and significant space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank utilizes composite construction where the containment structure is integrated with building materials such as concrete, masonry, or insulated wall systems. These composite structures provide inherent thermal insulation properties while maintaining structural integrity, thereby reducing heat leakage without complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage tank employs thin-walled composite construction where the containment shell is formed by the building structure itself (e.g., concrete walls, insulated panels). This thin-film approach minimizes material usage and space occupation while the insulating properties of the building materials reduce heat transfer to the ambient environment.
4Ease of operation
If the storage tank is placed inside the building structure before completion, then the installation is easier, but the tank becomes difficult to service, maintain, and replace later
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tank is divided into modular segments or compartments that can be independently accessed, maintained, or replaced. The tank is integrated with the building structure in a way that allows for section-by-section access through floor openings, wall penetrations, or removable panels, enabling maintenance without demolishing the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Access channels, inspection ports, or removable structural elements are provided as intermediaries between the interior tank space and the exterior environment. These intermediaries allow maintenance personnel to access the tank for servicing, inspection, or replacement without requiring complete demolition of the building structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A composite storage tank module, tank, and arrangement wherein a composite storage tank module comprises at least one hollow section adapted to house a medium. The storage tank module is an elongated self-supporting structure produced from a composite material constituted of at least a first and second material. The composite storage tank module and arrangement are adapted to be embedded in a building structure, preferably a double flooring or a wall.