Modular Thermal Energy Storage with Dynamic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing modular thermal energy storage systems face inefficiencies in adapting to varying heat transfer fluid capacities and pressures, leading to suboptimal energy storage and delivery capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A modular thermal energy storage system with modules that can operate in two modes: thermal energy transmission and non-transmission, regulated by shutters and actuators, allowing flexible adaptation to fluid capacity and pressure, using phase change materials for efficient energy storage and release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If thermal energy storage systems use fixed configuration modules, then system structure is simple, but adaptability to varying heat transfer fluid capacities and pressures is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptability by enabling each thermal energy storage module to switch between two operational modes (thermal energy transmission mode and non-transmission mode) based on real-time heat transfer fluid capacity and pressure conditions. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to optimize performance under varying operating conditions without requiring a completely complex redesign of the modular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Each thermal energy storage module is designed with multi-functionality, capable of operating in either thermal energy transmission mode or non-transmission mode depending on system requirements. This universal design allows the same module structure to serve different functions based on operational needs, improving overall system adaptability without increasing structural complexity.
2Quantity of substance
If all modules operate in thermal energy transmission mode, then energy storage capacity is maximized, but pressure drop increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by allowing only a subset of thermal energy storage modules to operate in thermal energy transmission mode at any given time, while other modules operate in non-transmission mode. This selective operation maintains sufficient energy storage capacity while reducing the cumulative pressure drop that would occur if all modules simultaneously transmitted thermal energy.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal energy storage system is segmented into multiple independent modules, each capable of independent operational mode selection. This segmentation allows the system to distribute thermal energy transmission across different modules rather than requiring all modules to operate simultaneously, thereby reducing the overall pressure drop while maintaining energy storage capacity.
3Stress or pressure
If modules operate in non-transmission mode, then pressure drop is reduced, but energy storage efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by dynamically switching modules between thermal energy transmission mode and non-transmission mode based on varying operational requirements. This periodic switching allows the system to optimize between pressure drop reduction and energy storage efficiency at different time intervals, ensuring overall system productivity is maintained while managing pressure conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action by ensuring that while some modules operate in non-transmission mode to reduce pressure drop, other modules simultaneously operate in thermal energy transmission mode to maintain energy storage efficiency. This continuous operation across multiple modules ensures that the system as a whole maintains productive function without significant loss in energy storage capability.
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 system optimizes energy storage efficiency by dynamically adjusting module operation based on fluid capacity and pressure, reducing pressure drop and enhancing flexibility in thermal energy management.
Implementation Method 1
using phase change materials for efficient energy storage and release
Implementation Method 2
a transfer of thermal energy occurs between the heat transfer fluid and the module
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
Modular thermal energy storage system (1) comprising a plurality of thermal energy storage modules (10). The modules (10) are coupled to one another in series and configured for a heat transfer fluid to flow sequentially along said modules (10). Each module (10) has two operating modes, a first thermal energy transmission mode in which a transfer of thermal energy occurs between the heat transfer fluid and the module (10) when the heat transfer fluid flows along the module (10), and a second non-thermal energy transmission mode in which the transfer of thermal energy does not occur between the heat transfer fluid and the module (10) when the heat transfer fluid flows along said module (10).