Geothermal source power generation plant with computing facility and method
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data centers face challenges with high electricity demand, environmental impact, and economic viability due to reliance on conventional power grids and inefficient geothermal power plants, especially those using low-temperature geothermal resources.
Innovation Solution
An on-site power generation system utilizing low-temperature geothermal resources to generate electricity for electronic signals processing facilities, using a hydraulic heat engine driven by geothermal water to power a generator, combined with immersion cooling technology to reduce energy consumption and environmental footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional geothermal power plants use very hot water and steam from deep wells, then electricity generation is viable, but the operating cost is high and the location is remote from power grid connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the geothermal resource from very hot water (requiring deep wells) to lower temperature water (140°F to 210°F), enabling the use of shallow wells and allowing facility placement near power grid connections while still achieving viable electricity generation through the hydraulic heat engine system
2Adaptability or versatility
If low temperature geothermal resources are used for space heating and domestic water heating, then the resources are utilized, but the economic value is low and the utility is very limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the application parameter from low-value thermal uses (space heating, water heating) to high-value electricity generation by introducing a hydraulic heat engine that can efficiently convert low-temperature geothermal energy into electrical power, thereby dramatically increasing the economic value and versatility of the resource
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct thermal utilization (heating applications) with a mechanical energy conversion system (hydraulic heat engine), enabling the geothermal resource to perform multiple functions including electricity generation, cooling, and heating, thus expanding adaptability and economic value
3Use of energy by moving object
If data centers are located in areas with lower cost electricity, then operating cost is reduced, but the need for adequate power supply infrastructure remains a constraint
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the data center to generate its own electricity on-site using the hydraulic heat engine system powered by local low-temperature geothermal resources, eliminating dependence on external power grids and infrastructure while achieving low operating costs
4Object-affected harmful factors
If renewable energy power plants are purchased and power is sold into local grid to offset carbon footprint, then environmental impact is reduced, but the infrastructure cost and grid dependency remain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the facility to produce its own renewable electricity on-site using geothermal resources, eliminating the need to purchase power from external renewable energy plants or sell power to the grid, thereby reducing both carbon footprint and infrastructure complexity simultaneously
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
This approach provides cost-effective, renewable electricity for on-site use, reducing grid dependency, space requirements, and environmental impact, while achieving high efficiency and scalability.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic heat engine which converts thermal energy from the geothermal water into mechanical energy
Implementation Method 2
The hydraulic heat engine drives a hydraulic motor which turns a generator which generates electricity
Implementation Method 3
The hydraulic heat engine utilizes heat exchangers to transfer thermal energy from the geothermal resource to the heat engine working fluid
Implementation Method 4
The working fluid undergoes thermal expansion (without phase change from liquid to gas) which drives a piston of the hydraulic heat engine
Data Source
AI summary
A method of processing electrical data and signals which comprises locating a site with a geothermal hot water resource which feeds hot water to an on-site heat engine that drives an on-site electricity generator which provides electrical power to an array of microprocessors, located in an enclosure structure, that processes data transmitted from a remote location at high speeds. The processed data is transmitted back to the remote locations at high speeds.