Heat exchanger for a ventilation system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shell and tube type air-to-air heat exchangers for forced ventilation systems have a fixed extent of heat exchange, which is not adjustable and does not accommodate varying seasonal heat exchange needs.
Innovation Solution
The heat exchanger features an adjustable bypass tube with positionable and sizeable flow-through openings that allow for selective overlap between air flows, enabling adjustable heat exchange by controlling the bypass of the outgoing flow, and includes a valve system for precise control of heat exchange, along with a press-fit tube mounting system for airtight coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If heat exchange extent is fixed in shell and tube type heat exchangers, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying seasonal heat exchange needs deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass tube is made adjustable along the longitudinal axis, allowing the system to dynamically change its configuration based on seasonal requirements. This enables the heat exchanger to adapt between maximum heat exchange mode (bypass tube retracted) and reduced heat exchange mode (bypass tube extended), resolving the contradiction between fixed structure and variable performance needs
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchanger is divided into functional segments: the main heat exchange section with tubes and the bypass section. By segmenting the flow path, the system can selectively control whether air passes through the heat exchange tubes or bypasses them, providing adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the entire structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If bypass tube with adjustable flow-through openings is added, then heat exchange adjustability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass tube serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural support element, a flow control mechanism, and an adjustable baffle. By making the bypass tube multi-functional, the patent adds heat exchange adjustability without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the same component performs multiple roles
3Productivity
If outgoing flow is sucked through interspace, then heat distribution is improved, but flow restriction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The suction effect is applied locally at specific positions within the interspace rather than uniformly throughout. By creating localized suction zones, the system achieves improved heat distribution through enhanced flow circulation while minimizing overall flow restriction, as only specific regions experience increased resistance
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 design allows for customizable heat exchange between fresh and outgoing air flows, improving heat distribution and reducing flow restriction, thereby enhancing the efficiency and adaptability of the heat exchanger for different ventilation requirements.
Implementation Method 1
heat exchanger for exchanging heat between the fresh air flow and the outgoing flow
Implementation Method 2
two airflows running in counter flow... One airflow flows inside the straws, where the other flow will flow around the straws
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a heat exchanger for a forced ventilation system for introducing fresh air from outside into an interior, the heat exchanger being a shell and tube type heat exchanger for exchanging heat between a first air flow and a second air flow, wherein the heat exchanger comprises; - a number of tubes for channelling the first air flow, - an outer shell configured to channel the second air flow, the outer shell enclosing the number of tubes and defining an interspace within said outer shell and outside of the number of tubes, - an interspace flow-through opening for the second air flow such that the interspace carries the second air flow along the number of tubes such that heat is exchanged between the first flow through the number of tubes and the second air in the interspace, and a bypass tube having at least one bypass flow-through opening in fluid connection with the interspace, the bypass tube being adjustable to position selectively allow flow through the at least one bypass flow-through opening.