Multi-Plate Heat Exchanger for Thermal Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thermal energy storage systems suffer from short storage periods, low efficiency, low versatility, and difficulty of installation, which limits their effectiveness in managing peak demand hours and reducing energy costs.
Innovation Solution
A thermal energy storage system comprising a container, a heat exchanger with inlet and outlet pipes, and multiple plates in fluid communication, where a phase change material (PCM) is in thermal contact with the plates, allowing for versatile storage and release of thermal energy, and can be easily installed and maintained.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional thermal energy storage systems are used, then thermal energy can be stored for later use, but the storage period is short and efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds multiple heat exchanger plates within a single container filled with phase change material. The plates are nested inside the PCM container, creating a compact structure where the heat exchangers are surrounded by the storage medium, maximizing thermal contact and storage capacity within a confined space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional single-plate or tube heat exchangers to a multi-plate configuration arranged in a three-dimensional structure within the container. This dimensional arrangement increases the surface area for heat transfer and extends the thermal energy storage period by creating multiple heat exchange pathways through the PCM.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional thermal energy storage systems are used, then thermal energy storage is possible, but versatility is low and installation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the heat exchanger into multiple separate plates that can be independently manufactured and then assembled within the container. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing of individual components and simplifies installation, as the plates can be inserted and positioned within the PCM without requiring complex integrated structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-plate heat exchanger design serves multiple functions: it enables thermal energy storage, facilitates heat transfer between different fluids, and can be adapted to various applications including HVAC systems, industrial processes, and renewable energy integration. The modular plate structure allows the same basic design to be scaled and configured for different thermal loads and space requirements.
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 more efficient, versatile, and cost-effective thermal energy storage and release, reducing energy costs by shifting load demand and managing waste heat, with applications in HVAC systems, nuclear reactor cooling, and other thermal management scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a phase change material (PCM) disposed within the container
Implementation Method 2
thermal energy storage systems have been developed which permit the storage of thermal energy for later use
Implementation Method 3
a heat exchanger disposed within the container... the PCM disposed within the container is also in thermal contact with the plates of the heat exchanger
Implementation Method 4
the PCM disposed within the container is also in thermal contact with the plates of the heat exchanger
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal energy storage system includes a container, a heat exchanger disposed within the container, and a phase change material (PCM) disposed within the container. The heat exchanger includes an inlet pipe, an outlet pipe; and a plurality of plates in fluid communication with the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe. The inlet pipe, outlet pipe, and plates are arranged and connected such that a fluid flowing from the inlet pipe and to the outlet pipe flows through the plates in between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe. The PCM disposed within the container is also in thermal contact with the plates for heat exchange between the fluid and the PCM.