Latent Heat Storage Tank Control for Flexible Heat Supply
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current heat storage systems for applications like providing hot water in buildings lack flexibility and efficiency, as they often operate in a fixed mode and do not effectively utilize both sensible and latent heat storage capacities, leading to suboptimal heat distribution and potential energy losses.
Innovation Solution
A heat storage system comprising multiple storage tanks with a latent heat storage medium, such as salt hydrate, and a conduit system with valves and a control unit that allows for selective operation in both sensible and latent heat modes, enabling flexible heat supply and demand management based on requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-mode heat storage system is used, then the system structure is simple, but the flexibility and efficiency of heat distribution is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The heat storage system is divided into multiple independent storage tanks, each capable of individual control via valves. This segmentation allows selective operation of different tanks based on heat demand, enabling flexible switching between sensible and latent heat modes without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates controllable valves on supply and discharge conduits that can dynamically adjust flow rates and shut off conduits. This dynamic control capability allows the system to adapt its operation mode (sensible or latent heat) based on real-time heat demand and available heat storage, transforming a static system into a flexible, responsive system.
2Loss of energy
If both sensible and latent heat storage capacities are utilized, then the energy efficiency is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives information about heat demand and available heat storage, then automatically actuates valves to select appropriate storage tanks and operate modes. This feedback mechanism enables the system to optimize energy utilization by choosing between sensible and latent heat discharge based on current conditions, minimizing energy losses without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit automatically manages the complex task of coordinating multiple valves and selecting operating modes based on heat demand and storage availability. This self-service capability allows the system to efficiently utilize both sensible and latent heat capacities without proportionally increasing operational complexity for the user.
3Ease of operation
If multiple storage tanks with individual valve control are used, then the heat distribution flexibility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each storage tank is equipped with its own supply and discharge conduits with controllable valves, creating independently controllable units. This segmentation allows the system to activate only the necessary number of tanks based on heat demand, providing operational flexibility while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit system with controllable valves serves multiple functions: it can supply heat to different tanks, remove heat from different tanks, and control flow rates to optimize heat transfer. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated conduits for each operation mode, managing complexity while maintaining flexibility.
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 solution allows for efficient short-term and long-term heat provision, preventing energy losses and contamination risks, while enabling intelligent heat distribution and storage, ensuring reliable heating services.
Implementation Method 1
a latent heat storage medium is disposed, such as salt hydrate
Implementation Method 2
another medium crystallizing upon removal of heat
Implementation Method 3
Via the supply conduits, heat can be supplied to the latent heat reservoirs, and via the discharge conduits heat can be removed from the same
Implementation Method 4
a conduit system with supply conduits for supplying heat into the storage tanks and with discharge conduits for removing heat from the storage tanks
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a heat storage system with a plurality of storage tanks, in which a latent heat storage medium is disposed, and with a conduit system with supply conduits for supplying heat into the storage tanks and with discharge conduits for removing heat from the storage tanks, wherein the conduit system includes one or more valves by means of which at least one supply conduit to at least one of the storage tanks and/or at least one discharge conduit from at least one of the storage tanks can be shut off or be varied in its flow rate, and with a control unit which is connected with the one or more valves and is configured such that it actuates the same.