Ice-Tank Refrigerant Cooling for Peak Load Shifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal energy storage systems for buildings lack efficiency and flexibility in shifting air conditioning loads from peak to off-peak periods and require high manufacturing costs, limiting their commercialization and effectiveness in multiple refrigeration applications.
Innovation Solution
A refrigerant-based thermal energy storage and cooling system with an ice-tank heat exchanger that operates in three modes: ice make, ice melt, and direct cooling, integrating with commercial HVAC components to reduce electricity demand during peak periods by using a refrigerant loop that circulates refrigerant through an ice tank to freeze and melt water, providing cooling through an evaporator coil.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If traditional thermal energy storage systems are used to shift air conditioning loads, then peak electricity demand is reduced, but manufacturing costs increase and system efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the thermal parameters of the storage medium by using phase change materials that transition between solid and liquid states at specific temperatures. This phase change mechanism allows the system to store and release thermal energy efficiently at controlled temperatures, reducing peak electricity demand without requiring expensive traditional ice storage infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transitions of the thermal energy storage medium between solid and liquid states to store and release cooling energy. During charging, the medium absorbs heat and melts; during discharging, it releases heat and freezes. This phase change mechanism provides efficient thermal energy storage at lower cost compared to traditional systems
2Use of energy by stationary object
If traditional thermal energy storage systems are used, then load shifting is achieved, but system flexibility under varying operating conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic control mechanisms that adjust the operation of heat exchangers, pumps, and thermal storage units based on real-time cooling demands and environmental conditions. This dynamic operation allows the system to maintain optimal performance across varying load conditions while continuing to provide effective load shifting capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal energy storage system is designed to perform multiple functions including cooling provision, heat recovery, and load shifting simultaneously. The system can operate in different modes (charging, discharging, standby) and adapt to various operating conditions, providing versatility while maintaining load shifting effectiveness
3Quantity of substance
If thermal energy storage capacity is increased to improve cooling provision, then system complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal energy storage system is divided into multiple modular units or zones, each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows the total storage capacity to be distributed across several smaller components, reducing the complexity of any single unit while maintaining the required overall storage capacity for effective cooling provision
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 system effectively reduces peak electricity demand by shifting energy loads, enhances air conditioning efficiency, and maintains flexibility across various operating conditions, achieving cost-effective thermal storage and cooling solutions for buildings.
Implementation Method 1
a refrigerant loop that circulates refrigerant through an ice tank to freeze and melt water
Implementation Method 2
a refrigerant loop that circulates refrigerant through an ice tank to freeze and melt water
Implementation Method 3
providing cooling through an evaporator coil
Implementation Method 4
a refrigerant loop that circulates refrigerant through an ice tank to freeze and melt water
Data Source
AI summary
The invention is a device as well as a system that stores and uses thermal energy in the form of ice to provide cooling to residences and other buildings. The device is a refrigerant-based thermal storage system with an ice-tank heat exchanger that cools a refrigerant that is then circulated to an air handler as part of an air conditioning system. The device integrates with commercial condenser devices.