Methods and systems for modulating energy usage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for managing utility consumption, particularly in domestic and commercial settings, are inefficient as they rely on manual adjustments and lack adaptive strategies to balance energy and water usage effectively.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that modulates energy consumption by alternating the temperature of heated water provided to water outlets, such as showers, between two set temperatures based on an energy consumption target, using a control module integrated with a heat pump and thermal energy storage system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If heat pump is used to transfer thermal energy for water heating, then energy efficiency is improved (coefficient of performance of 3 or 4), but the system requires more time to heat water to desired temperature compared to electrical resistance heaters
Solution Approach 1:
The heat pump is operated in advance during off-peak periods to pre-heat water and store thermal energy in the thermal storage tank. This preliminary action ensures that heated water is available when needed, eliminating the time delay issue while maintaining high energy efficiency through off-peak operation
2Loss of energy
If peak tariff is implemented to discourage unnecessary energy usage, then energy consumption during peak periods is reduced, but customers must be constantly aware of tariff changes and make conscious efforts to modify their energy consumption habits
Solution Approach 1:
The control module automatically monitors energy tariffs and manages heat pump operation without requiring customer intervention. It autonomously schedules heating during off-peak periods when tariffs are lower, allowing the system to serve itself and eliminating the need for customers to constantly monitor or manually adjust their energy consumption habits
3Use of energy by moving object
If thermal energy storage is used to store heated water for later use, then energy efficiency is improved by utilizing stored thermal energy, but the system cannot quickly provide water at desired temperature when demand arises
Solution Approach 1:
The control module dynamically adjusts the water temperature in the thermal storage tank based on real-time demand patterns and tariff conditions. It can quickly modulate the heat pump operation and mix stored thermal energy with incoming water to rapidly provide water at the desired temperature, combining the energy efficiency of storage with the speed of dynamic response
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 reduces energy consumption by optimizing water heating temperatures, extending the lifespan of stored thermal energy, and minimizing reliance on less efficient heating methods, thereby enhancing overall energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
a heat pump configured to transfer thermal energy from the surrounding to a thermal energy storage medium
Implementation Method 2
a thermal energy storage medium and a control module configured to control operation of the water provision system
Implementation Method 3
where this now hot refrigerant exchanges thermal energy via a heat exchanger to a heating water loop
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a computer-implemented method of modulating energy consumption by a water provision system, the water provision system comprising a heat pump configured to transfer thermal energy from the surrounding to a thermal energy storage medium and a control module configured to control operation of the water provision system, the water provision system being configured to provide water heated by the thermal energy storage medium to a water outlet, the method being performed by the control module and comprising: setting a first temperature for heated water being provided to the water outlet; setting a second temperature for heated water being provided to the water outlet, the second temperature being different from the first temperature; and upon determining that the water outlet is turned on, alternating a temperature of heated water provided to the water outlet between the first temperature and the second temperature.