Modular Boiler Unit With SOFC CHP for Independent Heat and Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing domestic boiler units lack efficiency in both space heating and hot water provision, and there is a need for a system that can generate both heat and power independently and with minimal disruption during upgrades or installations.
Innovation Solution
A modular boiler unit design that can accommodate a solid oxide fuel cell-based combined heat and power (CHP) device, allowing for separate installation and operation of the boiler unit and CHP device, with independent heat exchanger systems and control units to manage both devices, enabling efficient heat and power generation and easy upgrade paths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a traditional boiler unit is used for space heating and hot water provision, then the system is simple to install and operate, but the energy efficiency is low and no electricity is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a boiler unit with a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) based combined heat and power (CHP) device into a single integrated system. The SOFC generator uses natural gas to produce electricity through electrochemical conversion, while the boiler provides supplemental heating and hot water. This merging of functions allows the system to generate both electricity and heat from a single fuel source, dramatically improving energy efficiency by utilizing multiple energy outputs from one input source.
2Productivity
If a combined heat and power device is installed in the boiler unit, then heat and power generation efficiency is improved, but the installation and upgrade process becomes more complex and disruptive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the CHP system as modular, separable components: a standalone SOFC generator unit that can be installed independently from the existing boiler unit. The SOFC generator includes its own housing, fuel processing system, and heat exchangers, allowing it to be installed as a separate module rather than requiring complete system replacement. This segmentation enables phased installation and reduces disruption to the household.
Solution Approach 2:
The SOFC generator is designed as a universal unit that can provide multiple functions: electricity generation through fuel cell conversion, process heat for water heating, and thermal energy for space heating. The same core device performs all three functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate systems and reducing overall installation complexity despite the advanced technology involved.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a solid oxide fuel cell based CHP device is integrated into the boiler unit, then independent operation of boiler and CHP devices is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to be dynamic and adaptive, automatically adjusting the operation of the SOFC generator and boiler based on real-time demands for electricity, heat, and hot water. The system can operate in multiple modes: electricity generation mode, heat priority mode, hot water priority mode, or standalone boiler mode. This dynamic control allows independent operation of each device while maintaining system coordination, managing complexity through intelligent automation rather than fixed mechanical linkages.
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 enhances efficiency in space heating and hot water provision by allowing independent operation of the boiler and CHP devices, simplifies installation and maintenance, and provides a cost-effective and safe upgrade path with reduced labor and health risks.
Implementation Method 1
a solid state combined heat and power generating device in the form of a solid oxide fuel cell based device
Implementation Method 2
CHP heat exchanger arrangement
Implementation Method 3
a burner to burn a fuel supply, in this instance natural gas, to provide heat to a water supply
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
A boiler unit (100) housed in an enclosure, the boiler unit (100) configured to receive a solid state combined heat and power generating device (130). The boiler unit (100) comprises a heating device (110) to produce heat; and a control unit (120) to independently control each of the heating device (110) and the solid state combined heat and power generating device (130). The boiler unit (100) is operable without the solid state combined heat and power generating device (130) being present.