Electric jacket system and methods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extraction systems for solutes from botanical and animal-derived materials are inefficient and require complex thermal management using water jackets and resistive heaters, which are cumbersome and energy-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing electric thermal elements, including thermoelectric devices and electric jackets, for precise temperature control of extraction components, eliminating the need for water-based jackets and enabling efficient, electrically powered heating and cooling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If water jackets and resistive heaters are used for thermal management, then heating and cooling functions are achieved, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the water jacket system from the extraction apparatus, replacing it with direct electric heating elements and insulation layers. This extraction of the water jacket subsystem simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining temperature control functionality through alternative means (electric heaters and insulation).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical water circulation system with electrical heating elements. Instead of using pumps and water flow to transfer thermal energy, the system uses electric resistance heating elements that directly convert electrical energy to thermal energy, eliminating the need for water-based thermal management infrastructure.
2Temperature
If water jackets are used for cooling, then cooling function is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to fluid management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements passive cooling through insulation and natural heat dissipation mechanisms rather than active water circulation. The system uses insulative layers to maintain temperature differentials and allows natural convection and radiation to handle heat transfer, eliminating the need for operators to manage cooling fluid flow rates and temperatures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates hydraulic (water-based) cooling systems in favor of thermal management through insulation and electrical heating. By removing the water jacket system, the patent avoids all associated fluid management complexities including leaks, flow rate control, and temperature regulation of cooling water.
3Use of energy by moving object
If thermoelectric devices are used for heating and cooling, then energy efficiency improves, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the reversible nature of thermoelectric devices by changing the direction of current flow to switch between heating and cooling modes. This parameter change (current direction) allows a single device to perform both functions, improving energy efficiency compared to separate heating and cooling systems, while the modular design accommodates standard manufacturing tolerances.
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
Achieves efficient and energy-efficient extraction of solutes by maintaining optimal temperatures and pressures without water-based thermal management, allowing for high-purity extraction and simplified operation.
Implementation Method 1
Extraction system components may alternatively be heated with thermally coupled resistive heaters (i.e., Joule heating)
Implementation Method 2
WO2018215520 discloses arranging a thermoelectric device (e.g., a Peltier device) onto a single location of an extraction vessel
Data Source
AI summary
Electric jacket systems and methods for extraction are described. A system may be arranged or arrangeable for electrically controlling a temperature of one or more extraction system components. The system may include a first plurality of thermoelectric devices, the first plurality arranged or arrangeable for coupling with a first extraction system component at multiple locations along the first extraction system component. The system may further include a controller operably coupled to the first plurality of thermoelectric devices, with the controller configured or configurable to establish or maintain at least a first target temperature by selectively applying or causing the selective application of electrical power to the first plurality of thermoelectric devices.