Domestic Energy System with Thermal Equalizer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current domestic energy systems face challenges in efficiently accumulating both electrical and thermal energy, particularly in tropical regions where solar technologies are impacted by high temperatures and solar radiation, and there is a need for more efficient water utilization.
Innovation Solution
A domestic energy system incorporating a solar unit with photovoltaic and thermal solar apparatuses, a thermal equalizer, and a water apparatus that uses a carrier fluid to exchange heat and produce purified water, while controlling air flow to maintain optimal temperatures and reduce bacterial count, allowing for efficient energy accumulation and water purification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If photovoltaic panels are used to generate electricity in tropical regions, then electrical energy can be produced, but the efficiency is reduced due to high ambient temperatures and solar radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful excess heat and solar radiation that reduce photovoltaic efficiency into a beneficial resource by using thermal solar apparatus to capture this same solar energy for thermal water production. The system simultaneously generates electricity from photovoltaic panels while using thermal collectors to convert the same solar input into hot water, transforming the harmful thermal load into a useful product.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dual-function solar energy system where the same solar exposure serves two purposes: photovoltaic panels generate electricity while thermal solar apparatus generates hot water. This multi-functional approach allows the building to simultaneously address both electrical and thermal energy needs using the same solar resource, improving overall energy efficiency in tropical climates.
2Duration of action of moving object
If thermal energy accumulation technologies are implemented, then thermal energy can be stored for later use, but economically sustainable solutions do not currently exist
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs passive thermal accumulation through the building's existing thermal mass (walls, floors, and water storage tanks) rather than requiring active, expensive thermal energy storage systems. The thermal energy from solar heating is naturally stored in these structures during the day and released during cooler periods, providing economically sustainable thermal energy accumulation without complex technology.
3Quantity of substance
If distribution networks are used for water supply, then drinking water can be delivered to buildings, but high investment costs and energy consumption for transport are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the water production function from the centralized distribution network by implementing on-site water generation through atmospheric water generators and condensation systems. This allows buildings to produce their own drinking water from ambient air moisture, eliminating dependence on energy-intensive water transport networks while maintaining adequate drinking water supply.
4Temperature
If air conditioning is used during hot periods, then thermal comfort can be maintained inside buildings, but significant energy requirements are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses passive cooling strategies that act in advance of peak heating demands, including thermal mass that absorbs heat during the day and releases it at night, vegetation for evaporative cooling, and natural ventilation designs. These preliminary cooling actions reduce the need for active air conditioning during hot periods, maintaining thermal comfort with minimal energy consumption.
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 achieves efficient daily accumulation of electrical energy and thermal energy, producing sufficient purified and hot water for domestic use, with improved energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption, while also addressing the limitations of existing solar technologies and water management.
Implementation Method 1
a photovoltaic solar apparatus (102) and a thermal solar apparatus (104)
Implementation Method 2
a photovoltaic solar apparatus (102) and a thermal solar apparatus (104)
Implementation Method 3
a thermal equalizer (200) which is designed to contain a predetermined quantity of said carrier fluid and is designed to equalize the temperature of said carrier fluid
Implementation Method 4
the water apparatus (400) which is designed to produce purified and/or drinking water, on account of the heat exchanged with said carrier fluid
Implementation Method 5
technologies which are designed for daily accumulation for nighttime use
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A domestic energy system (12) comprises a solar unit (100) provided with a photovoltaic solar apparatus (102) and a thermal solar apparatus (104). The domestic energy system (12) also comprises: a conditioning unit (300); and a water apparatus (400) which is designed to produce purified and/or drinking water and is designed to be fed by a collection well (402) for surface groundwater and/or sea water and/or domestic clear water and/or rainwater. The conditioning unit (300) and the water apparatus (400) are connected by means of a network of ducts (600) to a thermal equalizer (200) which is designed to equalize the temperature of a carrier fluid supplying the conditioning unit (300) and the water apparatus (400), through the network of ducts (600). The water apparatus (400) is fed, by means of the equalizer, by the thermal energy produced by the solar unit (100).