Liquid Power Generation System Preventing Fluid Flashing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing differential pressure power generation systems suffer from low efficiency due to energy loss caused by the fluid flashing to vapor and subsequent state changes, which require additional energy for re-condensation.
Innovation Solution
A power generation system that utilizes a thermally expandable liquid working fluid in a closed loop with a pressure regulation mechanism, specifically a choke valve, to maintain the fluid in a liquid state by controlling the pressure difference at the power transfer system, preventing flashing to vapor and minimizing energy loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the fluid is allowed to flash to vapor in the power transfer system, then the power generation can proceed, but energy is lost due to the state change requiring additional energy for re-condensation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameter of the working fluid by maintaining it in liquid form throughout the power transfer system. This is achieved by controlling the pressure and temperature parameters to prevent vaporization, thereby eliminating the energy loss associated with phase change and re-condensation while still enabling power generation through the kinetic energy of the liquid fluid.
2Loss of energy
If pressure regulation means is added to prevent flashing, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces pressure regulation means as an intermediary component in the fluid circulation path. This mediator device controls the pressure of the working fluid to prevent vaporization without requiring fundamental changes to the overall system architecture, thus achieving energy efficiency improvement with minimal increase in system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure regulation means actively manages the pressure parameter of the working fluid to maintain it within a range that prevents flashing. By dynamically adjusting pressure, the system prevents energy loss from phase change while using a relatively simple control mechanism rather than a complex system overhaul.
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 increases the overall efficiency of the power generation system by maintaining the fluid in a single state, reducing energy consumption, and allowing for the recycling of the thermally expandable fluid, thereby enhancing the system's operational efficiency and reducing environmental losses.
Implementation Method 1
heated and expanded by said heat source
Implementation Method 2
cooled and contracted by said heat sink
Implementation Method 3
regulate a pressure difference experienced by the liquid working fluid at said power transfer system to prevent said fluid from flashing to a vapour
Implementation Method 4
the circulation of said the liquid working fluid operable to drive said power transfer system to generate power
Data Source
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AI summary
A power generation system is described, wherein a thermally expandable fluid, e.g. R134a, CO2, is circulated in a loop between a first location and a second location, the second location being at a higher elevation than the first location. The fluid is heated at the first location to expand it, so that it rises to the second location where it is cooled and contracted. The cooled fluid, being denser, then falls back to the first location under hydrostatic pressure, causing a circular fluid flow. This flow is used to generate power in a power transfer system. The system is regulated so that the fluid does not flash to a vapour, i.e. the fluid does not change state, which improves the efficiency of the system. The system is suitable for use in any situation where a height difference exists, and is particularly suited for geothermal heating sources.