Thermal and power module for a logistics building

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing energy storage and distribution systems, such as those described in CN214841747U and WO2020225905A1, are not suitable for quick deployment and require significant adaptations, making them unsuitable for logistics facilities where space is limited and efficient deployment is crucial.

Innovation Solution

A modular thermo-electrical module comprising an electrical sub-module and a thermal sub-module, both designed to be transported and deployed within shipping containers, allowing for fast setup and operation independently of the power grid, with the electrical sub-module connected to renewable energy sources and the thermal sub-module providing cooling and hot water, enabling semi-independence from the power grid.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional energy storage and distribution systems are installed, then energy storage and distribution capabilities are achieved, but deployment time is extended and space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeployment speedVSAvoidsetup time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into modular units that can be independently deployed and configured. Each module contains integrated electrical and thermal components, allowing for rapid deployment without requiring extensive site adaptations. The modular design enables the system to be transported and installed in standardized shipping containers, significantly reducing deployment time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional energy systems are installed, then energy storage and distribution are achieved, but adaptation requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of deploymentVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The modular units are designed with universal interfaces and standardized connection points that can be deployed in various locations without requiring facility-specific adaptations. The system can be installed in shipping containers, existing buildings, or new constructions, providing versatility while maintaining simple, repeatable installation procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If conventional thermal and power systems are used, then thermal regulation and power supply are provided, but space utilization is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespace efficiencyVSAvoidspace requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system combines electrical power generation, energy storage, and thermal regulation functions into integrated modular units. By merging these previously separate systems into single compact modules, the patent achieves high space efficiency while providing comprehensive energy and thermal management capabilities within minimal footprint.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 modular design allows for efficient and rapid deployment of energy storage and distribution capabilities, minimizing space usage and enabling logistics facilities to operate independently of the power grid, with flexible energy sources and efficient thermal management.

Implementation Method 1

a heat pump having a cold side input and output in fluid connection with the load side of a first heat exchanger, the hot side of a second heat exchanger

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat pump: Heat Exchanger

Implementation Method 2

the hot side of a second heat exchanger and an outdoor cooler disposed above the heat pump and/or on top of the electrical sub-module

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat pump: Heat Exchanger

Implementation Method 3

a first heat exchanger, the hot side of a second heat exchanger

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat exchanger: Heat Exchanger

Data Source

PatentEP4333237A1Thermal and power module for a logistics building
Publication Date: 2024.03.06 KOUTERMOLEN NV
  • EP4333237A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4333237A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4333237A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The current invention relates to a movable shipping container-enclosed thermal and power module for a logistic building comprising a power section and a thermal section, said power section being configured to connect to renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, which energy is stored in at least one battery within the power section, which battery them makes said stored energy available to be used by a building and by a the thermal section of the module, the thermal section comprising a heat pump system for providing cooling and heating to a buffer water tank and a building.