Grid independent heating system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fossil fuel-driven heating systems, such as water heaters, rely on external electricity for operation and are unable to function during power outages or in areas without grid access due to inefficient thermal-to-electric conversion, leading to high capital costs and operational limitations.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a thermal-to-electric generator (TEG) module proximate to the burner in a fuel-fired heating system, with a hot side facing the flame and a cold side cooled by flowing water, creating a temperature gradient to generate electricity, allowing the system to operate independently of the grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a thermal-to-electric generator (TEG) is integrated with the burner to enable grid-independent operation, then the system can operate during power outages and in off-grid locations, but the TEG conversion efficiency is poor leading to high capital costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the thermal parameters by positioning the TEG to receive direct radiant heat from the flame and using preheated combustion air to increase the temperature differential across the TEG. This increases the electrical output to meet the 40-60 watt requirement while reducing the size and cost of the TEG module needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The TEG module serves multiple functions: generating electricity for grid-independent operation, utilizing waste heat from combustion, and integrating with the existing burner system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and lowers overall system cost.
2Loss of energy
If sophisticated controls are used to optimize appliance operation and extract maximum efficiency, then energy efficiency is improved, but power demand increases requiring grid connection
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the waste heat from combustion to preheat the combustion air and generate electricity through the TEG. This self-service approach uses the existing thermal energy to meet the electrical power demand of the control system, eliminating the need for external grid power while maintaining high energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the waste heat that would otherwise be lost up the flue into useful electrical energy through the TEG. This transforms a harmful energy loss into a beneficial power source that enables sophisticated controls without grid connection.
3Power
If the TEG module is positioned to maximize heat transfer from the flame, then electrical output is increased, but the system complexity and integration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The TEG module is merged with the burner assembly, combining the heat generation and electricity generation functions into a single integrated unit. This reduces the number of separate components and simplifies installation while maximizing heat transfer from the flame to the TEG.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the combustion air stream as an intermediary to transfer heat from the flame to the TEG module. The preheated combustion air passes over the TEG, providing a controlled heat transfer path that increases electrical output while simplifying the physical integration compared to direct flame contact.
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 the heating system to produce both heat and electricity without external power, maintaining functionality during power outages and in off-grid locations, with increased efficiency and reduced capital costs through enhanced TEG output.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal-to-electric generator (TEG) module proximate to the burner in a fuel-fired heating system, with a hot side facing the flame and a cold side cooled by flowing water, creating a temperature gradient to generate electricity
Implementation Method 2
a cold side cooled by flowing water, creating a temperature gradient to generate electricity
Implementation Method 3
a burner adapted to produce at least one of radiant heat, flame, and hot combustion gases
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for producing heat and electricity independent of an electrical grid. The apparatus includes a burner adapted to produce at least one of radiant heat, flame and hot combustion gases. A thermal-to-electric conversion device is integrated with the burner and proximate to the burner, for producing electricity. The conversion device has a first side disposed toward the at least one of radiant heat, flame and hot combustion gases and a second side disposed toward and in heat transfer contact with a liquid supply line. The apparatus is useful in water heaters. The liquid supply line provides both water to be heated and a cooling medium for the thermal-to-electric conversion device.