Systems, devices and methods for gas distribution in a sorber
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sorption refrigeration systems face challenges with fragile ceramic distributors and clogging issues in cloth distributors, leading to reduced performance due to increased pressure drops and decreased reaction rates, which affect the energy delivery and efficiency of the system.
Innovation Solution
The use of rigid gas distribution tubes with porous sidewalls, formed from composite materials like epoxy and fiberglass, allows for efficient gas distribution to sorbents, enhancing durability and preventing clogging, thereby optimizing reaction rates and energy delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If porous ceramics are used as gas distributors, then gas distribution efficiency is improved, but mechanical strength and durability deteriorate due to fragility and susceptibility to fracture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure consisting of a porous ceramic core surrounded by a metallic mesh cage. The ceramic core maintains high gas distribution efficiency through its porous structure, while the metallic cage provides mechanical strength and fracture resistance. This composite approach allows the system to simultaneously achieve the gas distribution performance of ceramics and the durability of metals.
2Ease of operation
If cloth distributors are used, then flexibility and ease of installation are improved, but reliability deteriorates due to clogging after multiple cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes porous ceramic materials with controlled pore sizes and distributions to create gas distribution tubes that resist clogging. The porous structure allows gas permeation while the rigid ceramic framework prevents the material from collapsing or accumulating contaminants that would block flow. This maintains reliable operation over multiple cycles while still providing flexible installation options.
3Productivity
If ceramic distributors are used, then gas distribution performance is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to withstand vibrations in rough terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The composite design combines porous ceramic gas distribution tubes with an external metallic protective cage. The ceramic interior maintains optimal gas distribution performance, while the metallic exterior provides vibration resistance and mechanical protection, enabling the system to adapt to harsh environments including rough terrain and mobile applications.
4Ease of manufacture
If traditional distributors are used, then initial manufacturing cost may be reduced, but productivity deteriorates due to increased pressure drops and decreased reaction rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs porous ceramic materials with optimized pore structures that facilitate efficient gas distribution and minimize pressure drops. The controlled porosity allows gas to permeate through the distribution tubes with minimal resistance, maintaining high reaction rates between the gas and complex compound while enabling cost-effective manufacturing through established ceramic fabrication processes.
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 solution provides a durable and efficient gas distribution system that maintains high reaction rates, achieving maximum power density and improved system performance by reducing mass diffusion path lengths and ensuring reliable operation in varying environments.
Implementation Method 1
a rigid gas distribution tube coupled with the first sorber and comprising a porous sidewall defining a channel therein. The tube is configured to allow passage of the gas from an interior of the channel through the porous sidewall and to the sorbent outside the channel.
Implementation Method 2
a first sorber comprising a sorbent configured to adsorb a gas thereon
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
Features for distributing a sorber gas in cooling, heating or refrigeration systems with sorbers are disclosed. The sorbers may adsorb gas onto a sorbent material and desorb gas therefrom. Distribution of the gas to and from the sorber may be done with porous, rigid tubes. The tubes may be formed of composite material having pores. The pores may be implemented by flowing fluids through the composite material while the material cures. The sorbers may be reinforced with rods to provide greater strength and stability in load-inducing environments. The tubes may extend through the sorbent and thereby provide a channel for the gas to flow to and from the sorbent and the rest of the cooling, heating or refrigeration system.