Nested Boundary-Layer Turbomachine for Multiphase Energy Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing turbomachines face inefficiencies, high manufacturing and maintenance costs, and structural issues due to multiphase flows, with heat loss and parasitic loading reducing overall energy efficiency, particularly in low-grade heat applications.
Innovation Solution
The use of boundary-layer turbomachines that exploit the boundary-layer effect to drive concentrically nested rotors, utilizing fluid jets and blades to extract energy efficiently, reducing the number of moving parts and incorporating fluid bearings for high rotational speeds and thermal stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional turbomachines are used for power generation, then structural strength can be maintained, but efficiency is reduced due to parasitic loading and heat loss
Solution Approach 1:
The turbomachine is divided into multiple independent rotors (first rotor, second rotor, third rotor) that can rotate at different speeds and handle different phases of the working fluid. This segmentation allows each rotor to be optimized for specific functions, reducing overall energy losses while distributing structural requirements across multiple components rather than requiring one complex monolithic structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where rotors are arranged concentrically with inner rotors positioned within outer rotors. The first rotor is nested within the second rotor, which is nested within the third rotor. This nesting reduces the overall device footprint and simplifies the external structure while maintaining multiple rotating components for improved energy extraction efficiency
2Loss of energy
If multiphase flow is used in turbomachines, then energy extraction can be improved, but structural loads increase causing potential failure
Solution Approach 1:
The working fluid processing is segmented across multiple rotors, with each rotor handling specific phases or stages of the fluid. The first rotor handles initial high-energy extraction, the second rotor processes intermediate phases, and the third rotor handles final extraction. This segmentation distributes the structural loads that would otherwise concentrate on a single component subjected to all multiphase conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate structures including a common shaft connecting all rotors, bearing assemblies, and sealing mechanisms that act as mediators between the multiphase fluid environment and the structural support system. These intermediaries protect the main structural components from direct exposure to the most severe multiphase conditions while still enabling energy extraction
3Loss of energy
If precision manufacturing is applied to turbomachines, then efficiency can be improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The turbomachine is manufactured as separate modular rotor components that can be produced using standard manufacturing processes and then assembled together. Each rotor can be manufactured independently with appropriate tolerances, avoiding the need for extremely precise manufacturing of a single complex integrated component. This modular segmentation reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the efficiency benefits of the multi-rotor design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes in the design of rotor blades and flow passages to optimize performance within achievable manufacturing tolerances. By carefully selecting geometric parameters such as blade angles, curvature radii, and passage cross-sections, the design achieves high efficiency without requiring ultra-precise manufacturing, thereby reducing costs
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
Achieves higher efficiencies, lower costs, and reduced energy consumption by extracting more energy from working fluids while maintaining durability and stability, suitable for Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) systems and low-grade heat sources.
Implementation Method 1
boundary-layer turbomachines that exploit the boundary-layer effect to drive concentrically nested rotors
Implementation Method 2
utilizing fluid jets and blades to extract energy efficiently
Implementation Method 3
incorporating fluid bearings for high rotational speeds and thermal stability
Data Source
AI summary
A boundary-layer turbomachine coupled to a shaft for transmitting power, comprising a plurality of ducts, and a plurality of blades and/or one or more protrusions. The plurality of ducts are defined by duct walls configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis and are concentrically arranged thereabout to convey fluid between inlet and outlet ends. Flow inlets draw the fluid into the plurality of ducts at least partially azimuthally around the longitudinal axis towards the outlet end. The plurality of blades and/or one or more protrusions extend radially in the duct between opposing duct walls. The one or more protrusions may spirally extend at least partially along and around the longitudinal axis to induct fluid into the duct. Slots may be provided in duct walls for centrifugal separation of liquid phase. Systems and methods of generating power using a plurality of boundary-layer turbines, including without condensers, pumps, and/or compressors.