Dual Heat Source Closed-Loop Thermal Cycle for Marine Vessels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Closed-loop thermal cycles in marine vessels face inefficiencies as existing systems rely on a single heat source, which may not operate effectively across varying engine loads, leading to reduced performance and increased payback time.
Innovation Solution
A dual heat source system that selectively directs exhaust heat from an engine or turbocharger to a closed-loop thermal cycle, allowing the system to operate continuously regardless of engine load, using a three-way valve controlled by a controller to switch between exhaust and turbocharger heat sources based on engine capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single heat source is used in the closed-loop thermal cycle, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot operate effectively across varying engine loads
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs two heat sources (exhaust heat exchanger and turbocharger heat exchanger) that can serve different functions depending on engine operating conditions. The exhaust heat exchanger handles low-load operations, while the turbocharger heat exchanger handles high-load operations, making the thermal cycle system universally adaptable across the entire engine load range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different heat sources based on engine load conditions. The controller monitors engine load and actuates the three-way valve to select the appropriate heat source, enabling the system to adapt its configuration in real-time to varying operational requirements.
2Loss of time
If a single heat source is used, then the device complexity is low, but the payback time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dual heat source system ensures continuous useful action by eliminating gaps in heat availability. The exhaust heat exchanger provides heat during low-load operations when exhaust temperature is sufficient, while the turbocharger heat exchanger takes over during high-load operations, ensuring the closed-loop thermal cycle operates continuously without interruption, thereby reducing payback time.
3Productivity
If exhaust heat is used at all engine loads, then the system is simple to operate, but performance decreases at high engine loads
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by matching specific heat sources to specific operating conditions. The exhaust heat exchanger is optimized for low-load conditions where exhaust temperature is moderate, while the turbocharger heat exchanger is optimized for high-load conditions where high temperatures are available. Each heat source is strategically positioned and selected to maximize performance in its optimal operating range.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the system switches between heat sources, then adaptability to varying loads improves, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system employs feedback by continuously monitoring engine load conditions and using this information to determine the appropriate heat source selection. The controller receives input signals regarding engine operating conditions and automatically actuates the three-way valve to select the optimal heat source, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to varying loads.
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
Enables continuous operation of the closed-loop thermal cycle by utilizing dual heat sources, reducing payback time and adapting to different heat types, ensuring efficient energy conversion across varying engine loads.
Implementation Method 1
an evaporator configured to receive a heated thermal fluid and heat a working fluid
Implementation Method 2
The heat from the heat source can heat a working fluid of the closed-loop thermal cycle upstream of a generator apparatus
Implementation Method 3
A first heat exchanger may reside along the bypass duct and may be configured to receive heat from exhaust in the bypass duct
Implementation Method 4
heating a heat exchange fluid with the exhaust at a heat exchanger residing in-line with a bypass duct
Implementation Method 5
A second heat exchanger may be configured to receive heat from an output of the turbocharger
Implementation Method 6
heating a heat exchange fluid with the heated air at a heat exchanger residing downstream of the turbocharger
Implementation Method 7
an electric machine configured to receive the heated working fluid and generate electrical power by rotation of a rotor in a stator
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses are directed to monitoring a capacity at which an engine is operating, the engine comprising a turbocharger. It can be determined whether the engine is operating above a threshold capacity. If the engine is operating above a threshold capacity, a closed-loop thermal cycle working fluid can be heated with heated air from the turbocharger. If the engine is operating at or below a threshold capacity, the working fluid can be heated with exhaust from the engine. The heated working fluid can be directed to a turbine generator, which can generate electrical power.