Device for safely carrying out a left-turning thermodynamic rankine cycle and its safe emptying and filling by means of an inflammable working fluid and a method for safely emptying an inflammable working fluid
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermodynamic Clausius-Rankine cycle systems using flammable working fluids face safety challenges due to leaks, toxicity, and the risk of explosions, with current safety measures being complex, costly, and inefficient, particularly in residential and commercial applications where easy installation, maintenance, and emergency response are critical.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for safely managing a left-handed thermodynamic Clausius-Rankine cycle using a safety container with a compressor, expansion device, heat exchangers, and inert gas handling to evacuate and reintroduce the working fluid, ensuring containment and minimizing risks through a pressure-inert gas separation system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If flammable working fluids are used in thermodynamic cycles, then system efficiency and environmental compatibility are improved, but safety risks and explosion hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary inert gas (such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide) that acts as a mediator between the flammable working fluid and the surrounding atmosphere. This inert gas creates a protective atmosphere that prevents the working fluid from reaching explosive concentrations, thereby eliminating the explosion hazard while allowing the flammable fluid to continue functioning as the thermodynamic working medium
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an inert atmosphere by introducing non-flammable gases into the system enclosure or surrounding the working fluid containment. This inert environment suppresses combustion and explosion risks by displacing oxygen and preventing the formation of flammable mixtures, allowing safe operation with flammable working fluids
2Reliability
If safety refrigerants (fluorinated hydrocarbons) are used, then toxicity and flammability are reduced, but ozone layer damage and global warming increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the traditionally harmful property of flammability into a benefit by selecting flammable working fluids that have superior environmental credentials (zero ozone depletion potential and low global warming potential). By combining these environmentally benign fluids with inert gas protection, the system transforms what was once considered a safety disadvantage into an environmental advantage
3Reliability
If complex safety systems are implemented, then reliability and leak prevention are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service safety approach where the inert gas automatically maintains a protective atmosphere throughout the system operation. The system self-regulates by continuously ensuring that the working fluid remains diluted or surrounded by inert gas, eliminating the need for complex active monitoring and intervention systems while maintaining high safety standards
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 solution provides a safer, more efficient, and cost-effective means to manage flammable working fluids by ensuring complete evacuation and reintroduction, reducing the risk of leaks and explosions, and enabling easy maintenance and emergency operation.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pressure boosting device at the outlet of the safety vessel
Implementation Method 2
a downstream gas-liquid separator
Implementation Method 3
a connecting line from the liquid outlet of the gas-liquid separator to a pressure reducing and shut-off device
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
Device and method for the safe execution of a left-hand thermodynamic Clausius-Rankine cycle (1) and its safe emptying and filling by means of a flammable working fluid which, in the gaseous state under atmospheric conditions, is heavier than air and is circulated in a closed, hermetically sealed working fluid circuit, comprising at least one compressor (2) for working fluid, at least one expansion device (4) for working fluid, at least two heat exchangers (3, 5) for working fluid each with at least two connections (7, 8, 9, 10) for heat transfer fluids, a closed housing (6) which includes all devices connected to the closed working fluid circuit, and may include further devices, and at least one safety container (13) for receiving working fluid which is connected to the working fluid circuit, at least one shut-off device within the working fluid circuit (1),at least one pressure vessel for the delivery and receipt of inert gas, a shut-off valve and a branch from the working fluid circulation to the safety vessel, a lockable supply line from the pressure vessel to the safety vessel, a discharge line from the safety vessel with a downstream gas-liquid separator, a connecting line from the liquid discharge of the gas-liquid separator to a pressure reducing and shut-off device that is connected to the working fluid circulation of the cycle.