Supersonic Shock Wave Compressor for Stationary Power Cycles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stationary applications of supersonic shock wave compression for carbon capture and storage require significant auxiliary power due to the use of rotating impellers, and existing methods are not economically viable for achieving the necessary compression ratios without consuming excessive energy.
Innovation Solution
Adaptation of Ramgen aircraft supersonic shock wave compression technology for stationary use, employing a velocity choking device and divergent duct to transition subsonic air to supersonic velocity, enabling compression without a rotating impeller, and allowing additional compression apparatus to be installed in series for increased efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If rotating impellers are used for compression in stationary carbon capture applications, then compression function is achieved, but auxiliary power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional rotating impeller mechanical compression system with a supersonic shock wave compression system. The shock wave compressor uses oblique shock waves generated by a wedge-shaped obstacle in a supersonic flow to compress the gas, eliminating the need for rotating mechanical components and significantly reducing auxiliary power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters by transitioning from subsonic flow with mechanical compression to supersonic flow with shock wave compression. The gas is accelerated to supersonic velocities (Mach > 1) through a nozzle, and compression is achieved through the formation of oblique shock waves, fundamentally changing the compression mechanism and energy requirements.
2Stress or pressure
If supersonic shock wave compression is implemented without velocity choking device, then compression ratio increases, but device complexity increases due to multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components. The velocity choking device is integrated with the shock wave compressor, and the diffuser is designed to work in conjunction with the shock wave generation section. This merging of functions achieves the desired compression ratio while managing device complexity through coordinated design rather than separate independent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The shock wave compressor is divided into distinct functional sections: the velocity choking device section, the shock wave generation section with wedge-shaped obstacle, and the diffuser section. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve the overall compression objective.
3Productivity
If additional compression apparatus are installed in series, then compression efficiency increases, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a compact, integrated design where the velocity choking device, shock wave generation section, and diffuser are nested within a single compression apparatus housing. This nesting approach allows multiple functional elements to occupy overlapping or adjacent spaces efficiently, reducing the overall footprint when multiple apparatus are installed in series.
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 reduces energy consumption and enhances the economic viability of carbon capture and storage by achieving high compression ratios efficiently, while also providing a renewable energy source for electricity and mechanical work production.
Implementation Method 1
a velocity choking device...to transition the gas flowing at subsonic velocity to supersonic velocity entering the SSWC
Implementation Method 2
when the supersonic velocity air flow impinges on the air inlet cowl and angled surface of the obstruction device, shock waves are created that instantaneously and non-isentropically compress the air passing through them
Implementation Method 3
oblique shock waves, along with axially adjustable cones or wedge angles to optimize production of oblique sonic waves and compression
Implementation Method 4
a divergent duct to provide supersonic velocity air to the SSWC
Data Source
AI summary
A new power plant cycle facilitated by an innovative vapor compression apparatus to repressurize the air vapor and generate renewable energy for heat input to the cycle. The new cycle can be used in place of the conventional low efficiency Rankine cycle or other cycles to provide economical production of electricity without air pollution. The new cycle can also be used on-board land-based vehicles, aircraft, and watercraft to power them electrically or mechanically, or be used in a package unit for supplying electricity and controlling temperatures of indoor homes, business, and other structures. The new cycle can be used in Ramjet aircraft applications.