Flexible Microstructure Flow Conditioner for Low-Pressure-Drop Heat Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Latent Heat Based Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) systems face issues with non-uniform charging rates and increased pressure drops due to fluid flow irregularities in the upstream section of the system, leading to heat transfer inefficiencies and reduced energy storage capacity.
Innovation Solution
A fluid flow conditioning apparatus with adjustable tabular members made of elastomeric material that deform in response to fluid flow characteristics, generating vortices and reducing drag coefficients, and an insertion plate-type flow conditioner with microstructures that alter flow characteristics by flexing and creating eddies, thereby improving heat transfer efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional flow-conditioning devices are used, then flow profile is conditioned, but pressure drop increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the flow conditioner elements (thin plate configuration, specific spacing, angular orientation) to achieve flow conditioning with minimal pressure drop. The elements are designed with specific dimensions and arrangements that optimize flow straightening while minimizing resistance to flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow conditioner is segmented into multiple thin plate elements arranged in series, each contributing to progressive flow straightening. This segmentation allows the flow profile to be conditioned gradually through multiple stages rather than a single abrupt element, reducing overall pressure loss.
2Device complexity
If flow irregularities are present in upstream section, then system complexity is reduced, but heat transfer efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow conditioner elements are positioned upstream of the heat exchanger to pre-condition the flow before it enters the heat transfer section. This preliminary action of straightening and stabilizing the flow profile ensures optimal heat transfer conditions are established before the fluid reaches the heat exchanger, maximizing thermal efficiency.
3Stability of the object's composition
If straight-run piping is used to avoid space constraints, then flow profile is stable, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The compact flow conditioner acts as an intermediary device that mediates between the constrained piping layout and the heat exchanger. It introduces flow straightening functionality in a compact space, allowing the system to achieve stable flow profiles without requiring long straight-run piping sections, thus saving valuable installation space.
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 solution enhances heat transfer characteristics and reduces pressure drops, leading to more uniform energy storage and extended system life by stabilizing fluid flow profiles and minimizing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
generating vortices and reducing drag coefficients
Implementation Method 2
adjustable tabular members made of elastomeric material that deform in response to fluid flow characteristics
Implementation Method 3
microstructures that alter flow characteristics by flexing and creating eddies
Implementation Method 4
heat transfer from the heated airflow to the energy storage material within a tank
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid flow conditioning apparatus having a plurality of flexible microstructures that reduce flow losses within a conduit. The plurality of microstructures is affixed to an insertion plate-type flow conditioner. One or more ends of the microstructures are secured to internal walls of the flow conditioner. The microstructures are configured to move and flex in response to static and dynamic pressure exerted onto the microstructures by the fluid flow. The microstructures may be made of a hyperelastic material configured to undergo an elastic deformation due to the dynamic pressure of the fluid flow.