Subsurface tank
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current subsurface thermal energy storage tanks are large, heavy, and expensive to install, making them costly and inefficient for small-scale renewable energy applications, with high investment costs and long return on investment due to complex construction and transportation challenges.
Innovation Solution
A subsurface tank constructed using a lightweight rigid modular space frame framework wrapped with elastomeric foil, allowing for easy assembly, compact transportation, and installation, with a heat exchanger option to minimize contamination and corrosion risks, and the ability to use phase change materials for enhanced efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional heavy and large subsurface tanks are used for thermal energy storage, then structural integrity and storage capacity are ensured, but installation costs and transportation complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The tank is divided into a modular framework structure made of lightweight rigid components that can be assembled on-site. This segmentation allows the tank to be manufactured and transported in smaller, more manageable sections, reducing transportation costs and installation complexity while maintaining the overall structural integrity through the modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible foil lining within the framework to contain the thermal energy storage medium. This thin film approach replaces the need for heavy solid walls, significantly reducing the tank's weight and material costs while still providing the necessary containment and structural functionality.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional subsurface tanks are used, then thermal energy storage capacity is achieved, but investment costs and return on investment period increase
Solution Approach 1:
The modular framework allows the tank to be scaled to the required storage capacity by simply adding or removing modules, rather than constructing a single large complex structure. This reduces overall device complexity and investment costs while achieving the necessary thermal energy storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses cost-effective materials such as lightweight rigid framework components and flexible foils that can be easily replaced or modified. This approach reduces initial investment costs and allows for flexible adaptation to different storage capacity requirements, improving return on investment.
3Ease of operation
If lightweight framework is used instead of heavy tank structure, then installation and transportation are simplified, but structural integrity and containment capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible foil lining is specifically designed to provide the necessary containment capability for the thermal energy storage medium. While the framework is lightweight for easy installation, the foil ensures proper containment, thus maintaining structural integrity without compromising containment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The combination of lightweight rigid framework material and flexible foil lining creates a composite structure that leverages the advantages of both materials. The framework provides the necessary mechanical strength and shape, while the foil provides containment and flexibility, together achieving both ease of installation and structural integrity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates in general to a subsurface tank, a method of installing such a tank and the use of such a tank, the tank being arranged for holding a liquid. The present invention relates more in particular to a subsurface storage tank for storing thermal seasonal energy. In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of installing a subsurface tank, comprising the steps of building a framework having dimensions corresponding to a required volume of the tank, providing a foil having dimensions sufficient to cover the framework, wrapping the cover around the framework, placing the framework in a hole sufficient for the framework to be contained below ground surface. The method is characterized in that the step of building the framework comprises building the framework from a lightweight rigid structure modular space frame.