Modular Thermal Energy Storage With Separable Heat Converter Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy systems are not adaptable or require significant effort to adjust to varying storage and transfer capacities based on building type and location, making it difficult to meet local energy needs efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising an above-ground energy converter module, such as an air heat exchanger, and an underground energy storage module, like a latent heat storage module, allowing for flexible arrangement and scaling to meet specific energy demands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If energy converter and energy storage device are designed as a single integrated unit, then the structure is compact and simple, but the system is not adaptable to varying storage and transfer capacities based on building type and location
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate energy converter modules and energy storage modules that can be independently sized and configured. Each module can be selected and arranged based on specific building requirements, location constraints, and energy needs, allowing the system to adapt to varying storage and transfer capacities without requiring a complete redesign of an integrated unit.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system is designed as separate modular units, then adaptability to local conditions is improved, but the device complexity and installation effort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy converter modules and energy storage modules are designed with standardized interfaces and configurations that can serve multiple building types and locations. The modular design allows the same basic module types to be universally applied across different applications, reducing the complexity of designing custom solutions for each location while maintaining adaptability through flexible arrangement and scaling.
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 maximizes space utilization, adapts to changing needs, and enhances energy efficiency by leveraging natural temperature fluctuations, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness through modular design and integration of various energy sources.
Implementation Method 1
The energy converter module is preferably configured as a heat converter module, in particular an air heat exchanger module
Implementation Method 2
The energy storage module is preferably located at least partially underground... The energy storage module can be used to store thermal energy and/or cooling energy
Implementation Method 3
The energy storage module is preferably configured as a latent heat storage module
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system (1) comprising at least one energy converter module (2) for absorbing energy from the environment and/or releasing energy to the environment, and at least one energy storage module (3) by means of which the energy from the environment can be stored as thermal energy. The at least one energy storage module (3) and the at least one energy converter module (2) are configured to be arranged together as a combined unit (4) and/or to be operated independently as a single unit (5). Furthermore, the present invention relates to an energy storage module (3).