Granular Heat Exchanger Duct Layout for Efficient Thermal Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for heat exchange between granular materials and fluids are inefficient for energy storage and transfer, requiring complex constructions and high maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with optimized heat exchange paths for continuous air passage, featuring high thermal conductivity and mechanically optimized fluid dynamic paths, allowing for efficient energy storage and transfer between granular materials and fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional heat exchange apparatus is used for granular material preheating, then basic heat transfer function is achieved, but operational efficiency is low and maintenance requirements are high
Solution Approach 1:
The heat exchange apparatus is divided into multiple ducts (first ducts and second ducts) that are distributed throughout the granular material. Each duct acts as an independent heat exchange channel, allowing parallel heat transfer operations that increase overall productivity while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The ducts are positioned within the granular material in a nested arrangement where multiple ducts are embedded in the material volume. This nesting approach allows efficient heat exchange paths without requiring complex external structural arrangements, improving operational efficiency while keeping the apparatus structure relatively simple
2Loss of energy
If conventional heat exchange paths are used, then basic energy transfer is achieved, but thermal conductivity is insufficient and energy loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
Different ducts are positioned at different locations within the granular material to create localized heat exchange zones. The first ducts and second ducts are arranged to address specific thermal needs in different regions, improving overall thermal conductivity and reducing energy loss by ensuring efficient heat transfer throughout the entire material volume
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchange system transitions from surface-level or single-path heat transfer to a three-dimensional network of ducts distributed throughout the granular material volume. This dimensional expansion creates multiple heat exchange pathways that reduce thermal resistance and minimize energy loss without requiring overly complex surface arrangements
3Reliability
If simplified apparatus structure is used, then ease of transport and installation is improved, but reliability and operational stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is segmented into multiple independent ducts that can be manufactured and installed separately. This segmentation allows each duct to be reliably constructed using standard manufacturing processes, ensuring long-term reliability while maintaining simplicity for transport and installation as individual components rather than a complex integrated structure
Solution Approach 2:
The ducts are designed with universal characteristics that allow them to serve multiple functions: heat exchange, structural support within the material, and ease of installation. This multi-functionality approach ensures reliable operation without requiring additional complex components, maintaining ease of manufacture and installation while achieving long-term reliability
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 apparatus achieves high operational efficiencies, long-term reliability, ease of use and maintenance, and economically advantageous investments, with exceptionally high energy efficiency and balanced economic outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
apparatus for the heat exchange between a granular material and a fluid
Implementation Method 2
The Applicant has become aware of the need to develop apparatus for the heat exchange that allows both energy storage in an optimized and simplified manner and effective transfer of thermal energy from a granular material to a fluid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus for the heat exchange between a granular material and a fluid, comprising a container (2) having a sidewall (3) extending between a lower branch chamber (10) and an upper branch chamber (11) and containing a predetermined quantity of granular material intended to be heated to high or very high temperatures, a main duct (6) extended axially and substantially centrally within the container (2) between the chambers (10, 11) for the circulation of fluid from the upper branch chamber (11) to the lower branch chamber (10) and peripheral ducts (7) positioned around the main duct (6) communicating with the main duct (6) through the chambers (10, 11) for the circulation of fluid from the lower branch chamber (10) to the upper branch chamber (11). The apparatus also has valve means (12) configured to move between a closed position, where circulation between the upper branch chamber (11) and the main duct (6) is interrupted, to an open position, where circulation from the upper branch chamber (11) to the main duct (6) is permitted, resistance means (14) configured to heat the fluid, and ventilation means (13) configured to control the direction of fluid circulation.