Compact energy cycle construction utilizing some combination of a scroll type expander, pump, and compressor for operating according to a rankine, an organic rankine, heat pump or combined organic rankine and heat pump cycle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy cycle constructions are large in size and costly, with independent components connected via piping, which complicates the system and reduces reliability.
Innovation Solution
Integration of rotating components, such as scroll type expanders, pumps, and compressors, within a compact cylindrical container housing, where the working fluid flows about a torus in the poloidal direction, sharing a common shaft to reduce size and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If independent components are connected via piping, then system functionality is achieved, but system size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, expansion device) into a single integrated scroll-type device with shared housing and common refrigerant pathways. This merging eliminates external piping connections and reduces the number of separate components, directly addressing the contradiction by simplifying system structure while maintaining all necessary refrigeration functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated scroll device performs multiple functions simultaneously: compression in one scroll, condensation in another scroll, evaporation in a third scroll, and expansion through the refrigerant flow path. This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace what traditionally required four separate components, reducing complexity while ensuring reliable operation of all refrigeration cycle stages.
2Volume of stationary object
If multiple separate components are used, then system functionality is achieved, but system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expansion device into a single integrated housing, dramatically reducing the overall system volume. The shared housing and internal refrigerant pathways eliminate the need for external piping and mounting space between separate components, directly addressing both system size and component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated design nests multiple functional scrolls within a common housing structure, with refrigerant flowing through nested pathways. The condenser and evaporator scrolls are positioned within the same housing as the compressor, creating a compact nested arrangement that minimizes external dimensions while maintaining all functional components.
3Volume of stationary object
If components are integrated within a common housing, then system compactness is achieved, but manufacturing complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single manufacturable housing unit with internal refrigerant pathways. While the design is complex, it represents a single integrated component that can be manufactured as one piece or pre-assembled unit, potentially simplifying supply chain and installation processes despite the manufacturing complexity of the integrated structure.
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 results in a more compact, cost-effective, and reliable energy cycle construction that enhances efficiency and simplifies the system by eliminating piping between components, while allowing for power generation and heat transfer processes.
Implementation Method 1
scroll type expander, pump, and compressor disposed therein to form an integrated system
Implementation Method 2
evaporation and condensing processes being affected while the fluid is in transit
Implementation Method 3
evaporation and condensing processes being affected while the fluid is in transit
Implementation Method 4
The working fluid of the system circulating about a torus in the poloidal direction
Data Source
AI summary
A compact energy cycle construction that operates as or in accordance with a Rankine, Organic Rankine, Heat Pump, or Combined Organic Rankine and Heat Pump Cycle, comprising a compact housing of a generally cylindrical form with some combination of a scroll type expander, pump, and compressor disposed therein to share a common shaft with a motor or generator and to form an integrated system, with the working fluid of the system circulating within the housing as a torus along the common shaft and toroidally within the housing as the system operates.