Thermal Storage Unit With Density-Graded Insulation Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy storage systems are inefficient in storing and delivering thermal energy, particularly for high energy consumption industries and renewable energy sources like wind and solar, leading to wasted energy and instability in power demand management.
Innovation Solution
A thermal storage unit with a core containing a thermal storage medium and layers of varying density and refractory/insulating properties, utilizing a thermal transfer medium to efficiently store and release thermal energy, mimicking the Earth's thermal equilibrium system, with modular and solid-state design for high temperature energy storage and delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional energy storage systems are used, then energy can be stored, but thermal energy delivery efficiency is poor and energy losses are high
Solution Approach 1:
A thermal transfer medium (such as a gas or liquid) is introduced as an intermediary substance to carry thermal energy from the storage medium to the delivery system. This mediator enables efficient thermal energy transport while minimizing direct contact losses and improving overall delivery efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes phase changes (solid-liquid-gas transitions) of the thermal storage medium to store and release thermal energy. By changing the physical state of the material, the system achieves high-density energy storage and efficient retrieval, significantly reducing energy losses compared to conventional systems.
2Quantity of substance
If high temperature thermal energy is stored, then energy density increases, but system complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The thermal storage system is divided into discrete modular units or cells, each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows for scalable deployment, simplified manufacturing, and easier maintenance while maintaining high temperature storage capabilities through standardized modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs materials that undergo controlled phase changes at specific temperatures to store thermal energy. By utilizing well-defined phase transition parameters, the system achieves high energy density without requiring complex temperature control mechanisms, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Duration of action of moving object
If thermal energy is stored for long duration, then energy availability improves, but thermal losses to environment increase
Solution Approach 1:
A thermal transfer medium serves as an intermediary between the stored thermal energy and the external environment, enabling controlled energy delivery. This mediator system allows long-term storage by isolating the thermal energy from direct environmental exposure while providing on-demand delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes phase-changing materials that can maintain thermal energy in a stable state for extended periods. During storage, the material remains in a stable phase that minimizes thermal loss, and can rapidly transition to release energy when needed, achieving both long duration storage and low loss.
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 system effectively stores and delivers high-density thermal energy, achieving grid parity with fossil fuels, stabilizing energy demand, and providing long-term energy storage solutions with minimal losses, suitable for industrial and renewable energy applications.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal transfer medium that transports thermal energy to and from the core
Implementation Method 2
a thermal transfer medium that transports thermal energy to and from the core
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of layers surrounding the core. Each successive layer away from the core has less refractory and more insulating properties than the preceding layer
Data Source
AI summary
A thermal energy storage and delivery system is disclosed. A core includes a thermal storage medium and a thermal transfer medium transports thermal energy to and from the core. The core may be surrounded by multiple layers, where each layer is less dense the closer the layer is to the outside of the thermal storage and delivery system.