Stadium ambient temperature control system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing temperature control systems for large exterior spaces, such as stadiums, are inefficient and costly, particularly when traditional air conditioning methods fail to effectively cool or heat these areas, and there is a need for an economical solution to manage temperature fluctuations.
Innovation Solution
The use of phase change materials integrated into stadium seating structures and tempered liquids pumped through mounting rails and seats to regulate ambient temperature, with phase change materials absorbing and releasing heat as needed, and the implementation of a monitoring system to prevent condensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If traditional air conditioning systems are used to cool large exterior spaces like stadiums, then cooling capacity is provided, but energy consumption increases and effectiveness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary cooling action during nighttime hours when temperatures are lower and energy demand is reduced. Chilled water is circulated through the seating structures to pre-cool the phase change materials, which then passively maintain cooler temperatures during daytime events without requiring additional energy input.
Solution Approach 2:
Phase change materials are integrated into the seating structures to utilize phase transition (freezing/thawing) for thermal energy storage and release. The materials absorb excess heat during the day as they melt and release stored cold during nighttime as they freeze, providing passive temperature regulation without continuous energy consumption.
2Temperature
If traditional air conditioning systems are deployed in large structures, then cooling is provided, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The phase change materials in the seating structures serve themselves by automatically absorbing and releasing thermal energy based on temperature conditions. The system requires minimal active control or monitoring, as the phase change process inherently regulates temperature without complex control systems or continuous energy input.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the cooling function from traditional centralized air conditioning systems and distributes it into individual seating units. Each seat or section becomes an independent thermal regulation unit, eliminating the need for extensive ductwork, large compressors, and complex distribution networks required by conventional systems.
3Stability of the object's composition
If phase change materials are used in exterior stadium locations, then temperature stabilization is achieved, but application feasibility was previously unexplored
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies phase change materials specifically to seating structures where patrons directly experience temperature effects. This localized application targets the most critical areas for thermal comfort while avoiding the need to condition entire stadium spaces, making the technology feasible for exterior locations with varying environmental conditions.
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 effectively stabilizes temperatures within stadiums, reducing the need for extensive cooling or heating, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency by utilizing phase change materials and tempered liquids to manage temperature fluctuations.
Implementation Method 1
Phase change materials have been used for various applications, from food storage to crop protection to interior building materials. As the heat load rises above this desired temperature, the heat is absorbed into the phase change material until that material has completely transitioned through its phase change
Implementation Method 2
As the heat load rises above this desired temperature, the heat is absorbed into the phase change material until that material has completely transitioned through its phase change
Implementation Method 3
tempered liquids, such as tempered water, could be pumped through the mounting rails and/or the stadium seats to provide cooling
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling ambient temperatures of exposed structures using phase change materials and/or tempered liquid delivery systems. Phase change materials may be fabricated to hold the surrounding temperature at a desired temperature, such as 70 degrees Fahrenheit/21 degrees Celsius. As the heat load rises above this desired temperature, the heat is absorbed into the phase change material until that material has completely transitioned through its phase change, after which it will no longer absorb heat load. As the temperature then cools off at night, the heat is released from the phase change material, and the material changes back into its original phase. Phase change material may be placed within or on the exterior of stadium chairs. A liquid piping system may also be used to provide ambient heat control, including liquid piping for piping temperature-controlled liquid throughout the stadium while preventing condensation.