Solar air system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar air collector systems suffer from low thermal efficiency and are heavily dependent on ambient conditions, leading to increased heat loss and limited ability to maintain comfortable temperatures in enclosed spaces without relying on fossil fuels.
Innovation Solution
A vortex generator is integrated into the air ducts of solar collectors to create turbulent airflow, enhancing heat transfer efficiency by ensuring direct contact between air particles and the absorber surface, and a control system is implemented to manage airflow based on solar radiation intensity and ambient conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If air flow rate through the collector is increased, then heating efficiency is improved, but heat loss through the glass increases due to higher heat transfer coefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The air flow path is divided into multiple channels using longitudinal and crosswise crossbars, creating a segmented flow pattern that increases residence time while controlling heat loss through distributed heat exchange zones
Solution Approach 2:
The air flow is redirected from simple linear movement to a three-dimensional path through the collector chambers, forcing air to travel along extended routes that maximize heat absorption while managing thermal losses through strategic flow routing
2Use of energy by moving object
If direct conversion of solar radiation into thermal energy is maximized, then energy efficiency is improved, but cost of producing green energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses natural solar radiation and passive heat transfer mechanisms to heat air directly, requiring minimal external energy input or complex mechanical components, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining high energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes fluid (air) dynamics and natural convection currents to transfer thermal energy efficiently through the collector, leveraging pneumatic principles to achieve effective heat transfer without expensive mechanical pumps or complex control systems
3Volume of moving object
If solar technology is made compact in size, then space utilization is improved, but heating capacity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The air ducts are positioned in close proximity to the absorber surface, with the flow channels nested within the collector structure itself, maximizing heat transfer area within a compact footprint while maintaining adequate heating capacity through optimized flow paths
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 approach significantly increases thermal transfer efficiency, allowing for effective and controlled heating of both residential and commercial spaces to comfortable temperatures, regardless of solar radiation intensity or ambient conditions, while reducing energy costs and environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
at least one resonator installed in the air duct to change the air flow from laminar to turbulent
Implementation Method 2
direct conversion of solar radiation energy into thermal energy contained in the air
Implementation Method 3
maximum conversion of solar radiation energy into utility heat
Implementation Method 4
fan system in fluid connection with the inlet duct to supply air to it for heat transfer purposes
Data Source
Figure 1a
Figure 1b
Figure 2~3
AI summary
The present invention relates to a solar air system comprising : at least one air duct (A, B, C) for heat transfer, having a cross-sectional area of the air duct, wherein the air duct has a fixed cross-section along its entire length, air inlet duct in fluid connection with air duct to supply air to it for heat transfer purposes, having a cross-section of the inlet duct, and fan system in fluid connection with the inlet duct to supply air to it for heat transfer purposes, wherein the fan system is configured to supply an air stream having a static pressure higher than the static pressure of the axial fan, and the system additionally comprises at least one resonator installed in the air duct to change the air flow from laminar to turbulent, and the inlet duct is configured to supply an air stream to the resonator at an angle to the resonator surface, wherein the cross-section of the inlet duct is less than the cross-section of the air duct of the air system. Present invention provides also a method of heat transfer in the system, where the solar air system according to the invention is used.