Multi-Layer Wall Thermal Separation for Waste Energy Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermal separation devices for conditioned environments are inefficient in maintaining temperature differences between indoor and outdoor environments, particularly in using waste energy sources and are structurally complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
A thermal separation device comprising a wall with two active layers, two insulating layers, and channels for heat transfer fluids with different temperatures, allowing for effective heat exchange and energy accumulation using waste energy sources, and featuring a modifiable absorbent screen for enhanced energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a single-layer wall structure with heat transfer fluid channels is used, then the device can exchange heat with the environment, but it cannot effectively maintain temperature differences or utilize waste energy sources efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The wall is divided into multiple functional layers: active layers for heat exchange, insulating layers for thermal isolation, and selective permeable layers. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function optimally, maintaining temperature differences while using manageable structural elements rather than a monolithic complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested multi-layer wall structure where active layers with heat transfer channels are positioned between insulating layers, which are themselves between protective outer layers. This nested arrangement allows heat exchange functions to be embedded within the wall system without compromising the overall structural integrity or requiring excessive complexity
2Use of energy by moving object
If conventional wall structures with heat transfer pipes are used, then heat exchange is possible, but the structural complexity and production costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the thermal parameters of the wall by introducing multiple layers with different thermal conductivities and thicknesses. The insulating layers have low thermal conductivity while active layers have high thermal conductivity, creating a parameter gradient that enables efficient waste heat utilization without requiring complex manufacturing processes for each layer
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-layer wall structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: heat exchange, thermal insulation, and waste energy utilization. The same structural system handles both temperature maintenance and waste heat recovery, eliminating the need for separate systems and reducing overall production costs
3Use of energy by stationary object
If thermal equilibrium is allowed between conditioned environment and outside, then energy consumption decreases, but the conditioned environment cannot maintain selected temperature values
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces thermal mass layers and phase change materials as intermediaries between the conditioned environment and the external environment. These intermediaries store and release thermal energy, maintaining temperature values reliably while reducing the energy consumption required for active heating or cooling by utilizing stored thermal energy
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 device effectively maintains temperature differences by creating a thermal gradient across the wall, utilizing waste energy sources for efficient thermal stratification and energy accumulation, outperforming existing solutions in energy management and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
channels for the outflow of heat transfer fluids, which have, during the operation of said thermal separation device, temperatures that on average are different through the thickness of said wall
Implementation Method 2
a first active layer-like region toward said conditioned environment, a second active layer-like region toward said external environment
Implementation Method 3
a first insulating layer-like region, which is interposed between said active layer-like regions, a second insulating layer-like region, which is interposed between said second active layer-like region and said external environment
Data Source
AI summary
A device for thermal separation between a conditioned environment and at least one external environment, which comprises a wall that has at least a first active layer-like region toward the conditioned environment, a second active layer-like region toward the external environment with respect to the first active layer-like region, a first insulating layer-like region, which is interposed between the active layer-like regions, a second insulating layer-like region, which is interposed between the second active layer-like region and the external environment. The active layer-like regions accommodate channels for the outflow of heat transfer fluids, which have, during the operation of the thermal separation device, temperatures that on average are different through the thickness of the wall.