Fluid flow control system comprising exergy-based optimal output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow systems in solar energy-based combined power and heat systems face challenges in achieving constant optimization under changing conditions, leading to low aggregate exergy efficiency, parasitic power losses, and inefficiencies due to temperature sensitivity of photovoltaic panels, resulting in suboptimal power and heat generation.
Innovation Solution
A fluid-flow control system utilizing an exergy-based optimization algorithm to manage flow rates and temperature differentials, ensuring maximum exergy output by dynamically adjusting fluid flow based on real-time system data, including equipment performance, environmental conditions, and demand inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If cooling of the circulated coolant is allowed to obtain useful heat from the system, then heat recovery is improved, but power generation efficiency drops due to temperature sensitivity of photovoltaic panels
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the coolant flow rate through a variable speed pump controlled by an optimization algorithm that calculates the optimal flow rate in real-time based on current operating conditions, balancing heat recovery and power generation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The optimization algorithm changes the flow rate parameter dynamically to maximize total exergy output, adjusting the coolant flow rate according to real-time system state to resolve the trade-off between heat recovery and power generation
2Temperature
If the circulation pump operates continuously to maintain system flow, then heat transfer is improved, but parasitic power loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation pump operates at variable speed rather than continuously at fixed speed, with the optimization algorithm determining the optimal flow rate that maintains adequate heat transfer while minimizing parasitic power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The optimization algorithm automatically determines the optimal pump operating point by calculating the flow rate that maximizes total exergy output, eliminating the need for continuous high-speed operation and reducing parasitic losses
3Loss of energy
If photovoltaic panel temperature increases to allow higher heat recovery, then useful heat output is improved, but power generation efficiency decreases due to heat-susceptibility of panel materials
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the flow rate parameter to optimize the panel temperature, allowing the temperature to increase within optimal limits to maximize total exergy output while preventing excessive temperature rise that would harm power generation
Solution Approach 2:
The optimization algorithm uses real-time temperature and flow rate data to adjust the pump speed, creating a feedback loop that maintains panel temperature in the optimal range for maximizing combined power and heat output
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 optimal power and heat generation efficiency by maintaining exergy at maximum levels, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring the system remains efficient under varying conditions, avoiding negative efficiency domains.
Implementation Method 1
at least one flow control unit (2) to pump the fluid into the system
Implementation Method 2
optimizing the flow rate and the difference between the input and output temperatures of the fluid that circulates in between flow control unit and energy demand point
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention pertains to a fluid-flow control system (O) that renders an exergy-based optimal output based on the maximization of the total exergy at any given time via control, and suffices an innovative, exergy-based purpose function which instantly optimizes flow in/into any system (S) of power and/or heat generation, industrial or all kinds of manufacturing systems where liquid, gas, and/or one or more phases of fluid is/are involved. Systemic, environmental, technical factors such as equipment performance, losses, demand/supply inputs, temperature and pressure data are considered within the optimization system with the particular help of instrumentation and data control units, and flow control units such as the variable flow/displacement pumps.