Steam Pipe Clamp Thermoelectric Power for Remote Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
In remote locations, such as oil fields, it is impractical to supply power to sensors and wireless transmitters due to the lack of infrastructure and the dependency of alternate energy sources on variable weather conditions, and traditional power sources require periodic maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A mobile clamp with thermoelectric devices is attached to steam pipes to convert thermal energy into electric energy, using thermally conductive blocks and a heat sink to enhance energy harvesting, and a clamping mechanism to securely attach to the pipes, providing a reliable power source for sensors and transmitters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If batteries are used to supply power to sensors and wireless transmitters in remote locations, then power can be provided to these devices, but periodic replacement and maintenance are required
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric generator automatically converts thermal energy from the steam pipe into electrical energy to power the sensors and transmitters. The system is self-sustaining as long as thermal energy is available, eliminating the need for periodic battery replacement and maintenance while ensuring continuous power supply in remote locations
2Use of energy by moving object
If alternate energy sources such as wind turbines or solar power are used in remote locations, then energy generation is achieved, but the energy production depends on variable weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the waste thermal energy from the steam pipe, which would otherwise be lost to the environment, into useful electrical energy. This provides a reliable and stable energy source that is not dependent on variable weather conditions, transforming a discarded resource into a dependable power supply for remote devices
3Use of energy by moving object
If stand-alone generators are used to provide power in remote locations, then sufficient energy can be supplied, but periodic delivery of fuel supply is required
Solution Approach 1:
The thermoelectric generator system is self-sufficient, drawing energy directly from the thermal gradient of the steam pipe. It requires no external fuel delivery or human intervention for operation, eliminating the logistical burden of periodic fuel supply while maintaining continuous energy production for remote devices
4Measurement precision
If sensors and wireless transmitters are distributed throughout the oil field, then pressure and flow rate information can be obtained, but it is impractical to connect a central power source to each sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The power generation function is segmented and distributed to individual locations along the steam pipe. Each sensor assembly includes its own thermoelectric generator that converts local thermal energy into electrical power, eliminating the need for a centralized power distribution network and simplifying the overall system architecture while enabling widespread data collection
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
The mobile clamp system provides a sustainable and maintenance-free power source for remote electronic devices by efficiently converting thermal energy from steam into electricity, enabling continuous operation of sensors and transmitters without the need for periodic battery replacement.
Implementation Method 1
the mobile clamp includes thermoelectric devices to convert thermal energy in the steam to electric energy
Implementation Method 2
a heat sink may be mounted to the opposite side of the thermoelectric device to assist in heat dissipation from the side of the device positioned away from the steam pipe
Implementation Method 3
a thermal interface material may be provided between the block and the thermoelectric device to improve heat transfer between the two devices
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile clamp attaches to a steam pipe and converts thermal energy to electric energy. One side of the clamp is generally open to allow for insertion of the steam pipe. During insertion, opposing blocks on either side of the clamp are deflected apart. Each block includes a curved channel extending along the length of the block to receive the steam pipe. Fitting the steam pipe within the channel aligns the clamp on the steam pipe. A biasing force applied to the blocks to return each block to an initial position provides a clamping force on the steam pipe to positively retain the clamp on the pipe. Thermoelectric devices are mounted on the blocks to convert the thermal energy into electrical energy. Thermal energy is transmitted from the steam, through the steam pipe, through the block pressed against the steam pipe, and to the thermoelectric device.