Steam Generation Apparatus Using Calcium Oxide Hydration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current energy generation methods, particularly those focused on steam production, often rely on environmentally harmful combustion sources, necessitating the development of cleaner alternatives for sustainable energy generation.

Innovation Solution

A steam generation apparatus comprising two mechanically engaged compartments: a chemical reaction compartment for reactive materials and a biasing compartment with memory metal, facilitating fluid communication and thermal energy conversion using calcium oxide and hydroxide hydration/dehydration cycles to produce steam efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If combustion sources are used for steam production, then energy generation is achieved, but environmental pollution increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy generationVSAvoidenvironmental pollution
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of energy source from chemical combustion to chemical hydration reactions. Calcium oxide undergoes hydration to form calcium hydroxide, releasing thermal energy that generates steam without combustion, thereby eliminating harmful emissions while maintaining energy generation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes phase transitions in two ways: first, the hydration reaction of calcium oxide transforms from solid to aqueous phase while releasing heat; second, the generated steam undergoes phase transition from liquid water to vapor, enabling turbine-driven electricity generation without environmental pollution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #36Phase transitions

2Volume of moving object

If a compact steam generation system is designed, then space efficiency improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem compactnessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated system: the chemical reaction chamber performs both the hydration reaction and steam generation; the same chamber serves as the heat source for the turbine; and the system combines chemical energy storage with mechanical energy generation, thereby achieving compactness while managing complexity through functional integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The calcium oxide-based system provides multi-functionality: it serves as an energy storage medium, a heat generation source, and a steam production mechanism. This universal approach allows a single compact system to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate devices, reducing overall system volume

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 enables the production of clean energy by generating steam through a chemical reaction, which can be used to drive turbines for electricity generation, offering a compact and environmentally friendly solution for energy needs in various settings.

Implementation Method 1

The apparatus includes a chemical reaction compartment configured to house reactive material and receive liquid water... generating steam through a chemical reaction

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydration reaction: Chemical Bonding

Implementation Method 2

calcium oxide and hydroxide hydration/dehydration cycles to produce steam efficiently

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectExothermic reaction: Exothermic Reaction

Implementation Method 3

providing liquid water to a reactive material within a first compartment to generate steam within the first compartment

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEvaporation: Evaporation

Implementation Method 4

generating steam through a chemical reaction, which can be used to drive turbines for electricity generation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal energy conversion: Heat Engine

Data Source

PatentUS11815262B2Steam generation apparatuses, processes, and methods
Publication Date: 2023.11.14 LEVINE ALFRED B
  • US11815262B2 patent drawing
  • US11815262B2 patent drawing
  • US11815262B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Steam production apparatuses are provided. The apparatuses can include at least two compartments that are mechanically engaged. Processes for the production of steam are also provided. The processes can include providing liquid water to a reactive material within a first compartment to generate steam within the first compartment; transferring at least some of the steam to a second compartment that is mechanically engaged with the first compartment; and exposing the steam from the first compartment to material within the second compartment that extends when exposed to the steam, the extending of the material reducing the volume of the first compartment.