Modular Thermal Storage with Conductive Manifold
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal energy storage systems face challenges such as short storage periods, low capacity, low efficiency, low versatility, and difficulty in installation, which hinder their effectiveness in managing peak demand hours and reducing energy costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular, portable, and stackable thermal energy storage system that uses a self-contained container with a heat exchange apparatus featuring a thermally conductive manifold and phase change material (PCM), allowing for variable flow rates and integration with existing HVAC systems without the need for additional components, and incorporates thermally insulating materials for efficient energy transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If thermal energy storage systems are designed with high storage capacity, then energy storage duration is improved, but system size and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal energy storage system is divided into multiple modular units, each containing a tank with PCM and heat exchange apparatus. These modular units can be independently manufactured, transported, and installed, then combined to achieve the desired total storage capacity. This segmentation allows high storage capacity to be achieved without proportionally increasing installation complexity, as standardized modules simplify the installation process regardless of system size.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat exchange apparatus is nested within the tank containing phase change material. The manifold and heat exchange surfaces are positioned inside the PCM-filled tank, creating a compact integrated structure. This nesting arrangement maximizes thermal energy storage density within each module, allowing extended storage duration without proportionally increasing the external dimensions and installation footprint of the system.
2Ease of operation
If thermal energy storage systems use standardized modular containers, then ease of installation and portability is improved, but customization flexibility for different applications decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The modular thermal energy storage units are designed with universal interfaces and standardized dimensions that allow them to be integrated into various HVAC system configurations. The same basic module can serve different applications (cooling, heating, peak shaving) by adjusting operational parameters and interconnecting multiple modules in different arrangements. This universality provides ease of installation through standardization while maintaining adaptability to different customer needs through flexible system configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic configuration where modular units can be added, removed, or reconfigured based on changing thermal load requirements. The manifold system provides variable flow paths that can be adjusted to optimize performance for different applications. This dynamic adaptability enables standardized modules to be customized for specific applications without requiring non-standardized components, maintaining ease of installation while providing versatility.
3Quantity of substance
If phase change material is used to increase thermal energy storage capacity, then energy density is improved, but heat transfer efficiency may decrease due to lower thermal conductivity
Solution Approach 1:
A thermally conductive manifold system serves as an intermediary between the heat source/sink and the phase change material. The manifold, made of high thermal conductivity material, distributes thermal energy efficiently throughout the PCM volume. This intermediary structure overcomes the naturally low thermal conductivity of PCM by providing dedicated high-conductivity pathways, thereby maintaining high heat transfer efficiency while preserving the high energy storage capacity benefits of phase change material.
Solution Approach 2:
The thermal energy storage system employs a composite structure combining phase change material with thermally conductive additives or embedded conductive elements within the PCM matrix. This composite approach enhances the effective thermal conductivity of the PCM while maintaining its phase change properties and high latent heat capacity. The result is improved heat transfer efficiency without sacrificing the high energy storage density that makes PCM attractive.
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 provides improved thermal energy storage capacity, efficiency, and versatility, enabling cost-effective retrofitting of HVAC systems and reducing energy consumption during peak hours by storing energy generated during off-peak periods for later use.
Implementation Method 1
a phase change material (PCM) disposed within the tank and in thermal contact with the manifold
Implementation Method 2
The manifold is at least partially formed from a thermally conductive material
Implementation Method 3
a thermally insulating material disposed within the container and surrounding the exterior of the tank
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, thermal energy storage systems are described herein. In some embodiments, a thermal energy storage system comprises a thermal energy storage system comprising a container and a heat exchange apparatus disposed within the container. The heat exchange apparatus comprises a tank, a manifold at least partially disposed within the tank, and a phase change material disposed within the tank and in thermal contact with the manifold.