Rotary Adsorption Heat Pump for Valve-Free Operation Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adsorption heat pump systems require complex opening and closing operations of multiple valves to switch between adsorption and desorption operations, leading to inefficiencies in heat utilization.
Innovation Solution
A rotary adsorption device with partitioning portions that rotate to alternate between evaporator and condenser sides, using a simple rotation mechanism to switch between adsorption and desorption, enhancing heat utilization efficiency by leveraging latent heat for efficient heat transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are used to switch between adsorption and desorption operations, then the adsorption heat pump can perform both operations, but the system complexity increases and heat utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static valve-based switching with a dynamic rotary adsorption device. The rotary device continuously rotates to bring different adsorption chambers into position with the heat source and heat sink, enabling automatic operation switching without complex valve systems. The rotation mechanism dynamically assigns chambers to adsorption or desorption modes based on their position in the cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the adsorption device into multiple independent chambers that can operate simultaneously in different modes. Each chamber functions as an independent unit that can be individually positioned for adsorption or desorption, allowing parallel operation and eliminating the need for sequential valve switching between single chambers.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple valves are used for operation switching, then both adsorption and desorption can be performed, but heat utilization efficiency is reduced due to complex operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies continuity of useful action by implementing continuous rotation of the adsorption device, ensuring that adsorption and desorption processes occur simultaneously and continuously in different chambers. This eliminates idle periods and valve operation interruptions, maintaining continuous heat transfer and maximizing heat utilization efficiency throughout the operation cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning chambers in optimal orientations before heat transfer begins. Each chamber is rotated into the correct position relative to the heat source and heat sink before adsorption or desorption commences, ensuring immediate and efficient heat utilization without delay from valve operations or repositioning during the heat transfer process.
3Productivity
If continuous operation is achieved through rotation, then productivity increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by utilizing the cyclic rotation of the adsorption device to periodically bring chambers into adsorption and desorption positions. This periodic motion enables continuous operation as chambers cycle through different functional stages, achieving high productivity through rhythmic, repeating patterns rather than continuous variable adjustment mechanisms.
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 configuration allows for continuous operation with improved heat utilization efficiency, reducing sensible heat loss and the amount of fluid required for adsorption and desorption, while maintaining high heat transfer efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of the partitioning portions include at least one first partitioning portion positioned at the first evaporator side and at least one second partitioning portion positioned at the condenser side, the first fluid supplied from the first evaporator is retained on an outer surface of the first partitioning portion
Implementation Method 2
a first evaporator that evaporates a first fluid
Implementation Method 3
a condenser that condenses the first fluid
Implementation Method 4
the heater heats the second fluid, and supplies the heated second fluid to the flow path of the second partitioning portion
Data Source
AI summary
An adsorption heat pump includes: a first evaporator that evaporates a first fluid; a condenser that condenses the first fluid; a heater; and a rotary adsorption device. The rotary adsorption device includes: partitioning portions that radially partition a space encircling the rotation axis into plural regions, that each include a flow path for internally retaining and discharging a second fluid, and that each include an adsorbent on an outer surface thereof or on a wall surface of the flow path; and a pair of closure portions that close off both ends, in the direction of the rotation axis, of the plural regions. Each of the partitioning portions is moved alternately between the first evaporator side and the condenser side by rotation around the rotation axis. In the partitioning portions, retention and discharge of the first fluid, and discharge and retention of the second fluid, are repeated.