Printed Concrete Heating With PCM and Feedback Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current building heating systems integrated into concrete structures face inefficiencies due to higher energy consumption, operational failures, and increased integration costs, with limited control over temperature and humidity, and inadequate thermal insulation, which affect energy efficiency and user comfort.
Innovation Solution
The integration of adjustable heating systems with phase-change materials, reflective materials, and advanced monitoring and control systems directly printed on concrete surfaces, utilizing specific surface roughness and porosity ranges to ensure optimal functionality, allowing for intelligent temperature regulation and energy management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional heating systems are integrated into concrete structures, then heating function is provided, but energy consumption increases and integration costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The heating system integrates multiple previously separate components (heating elements, control systems, sensors, and concrete structure) into a unified system where control electronics and heating circuits are embedded directly within the concrete matrix, enabling coordinated operation and reduced energy losses
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor temperature and humidity conditions, feeding this data back to the control electronics which automatically adjust heating output to maintain optimal conditions, thereby reducing unnecessary energy consumption and improving operational reliability
2Temperature
If heating systems are integrated into concrete, then thermal comfort is improved, but control over temperature and humidity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static heating control to dynamic control where electronics embedded in the concrete continuously adjust heating output based on real-time sensor feedback, enabling precise and flexible control over temperature and humidity conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The control system enables adjustment of multiple operational parameters including heating power levels, temperature setpoints, and humidity control thresholds, allowing optimization of thermal comfort conditions according to varying user requirements
3Loss of energy
If conventional heating systems are used, then heating function is provided, but thermal insulation is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs composite construction combining concrete with integrated heating elements and control components, creating a multifunctional material structure that provides both structural support and thermal management with improved insulation efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges heating functionality, control electronics, and insulation properties into a single integrated concrete system, eliminating the need for separate insulation layers and reducing overall system complexity while improving thermal efficiency
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
This solution reduces energy consumption by 5-10%, enhances thermal comfort, and extends the temperature range within comfort zones, while providing a customized, aesthetically pleasing solution for building heating and insulation.
Implementation Method 1
Currently there are various electrical heating systems in the market (based on Joule effect) for integration into construction/finishing structures and materials
Implementation Method 2
Materials for maximizing performance and energy efficiency: phase-change materials (PCMs)
Implementation Method 3
reflective materials
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for active management of energy in concrete walls and/or floors, which essentially comprises: printed heating systems which are integrated in concrete parts during the concrete casting process; heating systems which are printed on the surface of concrete parts or cementitious coatings; an electronic system for monitoring and control the environment and the heating circuits, which is integrated in the concrete in order to maintain the comfort temperature; high reflective and phase-change materials to maximize the functionality of the heating systems; concrete wall structure to maximize the utilization of the heat generated by the integrated heating system.