CA2643888A1 - Solar powered heat storage device - Google Patents
Solar powered heat storage device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2643888A1 CA2643888A1 CA 2643888 CA2643888A CA2643888A1 CA 2643888 A1 CA2643888 A1 CA 2643888A1 CA 2643888 CA2643888 CA 2643888 CA 2643888 A CA2643888 A CA 2643888A CA 2643888 A1 CA2643888 A1 CA 2643888A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- heating
- phase change
- heat storage
- conduit
- heating fluid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000005338 heat storage Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 66
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 168
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 55
- 239000012782 phase change material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 47
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 41
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 23
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 8
- 239000012071 phase Substances 0.000 claims description 41
- 239000007791 liquid phase Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000007790 solid phase Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000001939 inductive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000004927 fusion Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 5
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 5
- LYCAIKOWRPUZTN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethylene glycol Chemical compound OCCO LYCAIKOWRPUZTN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 4
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 3
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000005611 electricity Effects 0.000 description 2
- -1 for example Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007792 gaseous phase Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920001903 high density polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000004700 high-density polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- WGCNASOHLSPBMP-UHFFFAOYSA-N hydroxyacetaldehyde Natural products OCC=O WGCNASOHLSPBMP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000001131 transforming effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 2
- RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N Copper Chemical compound [Cu] RYGMFSIKBFXOCR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 241000283986 Lepus Species 0.000 description 1
- HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Zinc Chemical compound [Zn] HCHKCACWOHOZIP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- KQNKJJBFUFKYFX-UHFFFAOYSA-N acetic acid;trihydrate Chemical compound O.O.O.CC(O)=O KQNKJJBFUFKYFX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 150000001408 amides Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229940068911 chloride hexahydrate Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003925 fat Substances 0.000 description 1
- VOAPTKOANCCNFV-UHFFFAOYSA-N hexahydrate;hydrochloride Chemical compound O.O.O.O.O.O.Cl VOAPTKOANCCNFV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000011344 liquid material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011343 solid material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- JTERPZLSUHFRRP-UHFFFAOYSA-N sulfuric acid;decahydrate Chemical compound O.O.O.O.O.O.O.O.O.O.OS(O)(=O)=O JTERPZLSUHFRRP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009466 transformation Effects 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000011701 zinc Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052725 zinc Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D20/00—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00
- F28D20/02—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00 using latent heat
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D19/00—Details
- F24D19/10—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
- F24D19/1006—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems
- F24D19/1009—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for central heating
- F24D19/1042—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for central heating the system uses solar energy
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H1/00—Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters
- F24H1/06—Portable or mobile, e.g. collapsible
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H1/00—Water heaters, e.g. boilers, continuous-flow heaters or water-storage heaters
- F24H1/08—Packaged or self-contained boilers, i.e. water heaters with control devices and pump in a single unit
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H7/00—Storage heaters, i.e. heaters in which the energy is stored as heat in masses for subsequent release
- F24H7/02—Storage heaters, i.e. heaters in which the energy is stored as heat in masses for subsequent release the released heat being conveyed to a transfer fluid
- F24H7/04—Storage heaters, i.e. heaters in which the energy is stored as heat in masses for subsequent release the released heat being conveyed to a transfer fluid with forced circulation of the transfer fluid
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
- H02S40/30—Electrical components
- H02S40/38—Energy storage means, e.g. batteries, structurally associated with PV modules
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S40/00—Components or accessories in combination with PV modules, not provided for in groups H02S10/00 - H02S30/00
- H02S40/40—Thermal components
- H02S40/44—Means to utilise heat energy, e.g. hybrid systems producing warm water and electricity at the same time
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D2200/00—Heat sources or energy sources
- F24D2200/02—Photovoltaic energy
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D2200/00—Heat sources or energy sources
- F24D2200/14—Solar energy
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D2220/00—Components of central heating installations excluding heat sources
- F24D2220/08—Storage tanks
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D2220/00—Components of central heating installations excluding heat sources
- F24D2220/10—Heat storage materials, e.g. phase change materials or static water enclosed in a space
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D2240/00—Characterizing positions, e.g. of sensors, inlets, outlets
- F24D2240/10—Placed within or inside of
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D20/00—Heat storage plants or apparatus in general; Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups F28D17/00 or F28D19/00
- F28D2020/0004—Particular heat storage apparatus
- F28D2020/0013—Particular heat storage apparatus the heat storage material being enclosed in elements attached to or integral with heat exchange conduits
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
- Y02B10/20—Solar thermal
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/60—Thermal-PV hybrids
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/14—Thermal energy storage
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E70/00—Other energy conversion or management systems reducing GHG emissions
- Y02E70/30—Systems combining energy storage with energy generation of non-fossil origin
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Sustainable Development (AREA)
- Sustainable Energy (AREA)
- Central Heating Systems (AREA)
- Heat-Pump Type And Storage Water Heaters (AREA)
- Photovoltaic Devices (AREA)
Abstract
A solar powered heating system comprises a heat storage container made of a heat conductive material having a phase change material disposed therein. A heating mechanism heats the phase change material to induce a phase change of the same. A solar panel is connected to the heating mechanism for capturing solar energy and providing the same to the heating mechanism. The heating system further comprises a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change material and the heating fluid is enabled. The heating conduit is connected to an enclosure for providing heating thereto. A
heating fluid actuator induces flow of the heating fluid and a heating fluid flow control mechanism controls the flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
heating fluid actuator induces flow of the heating fluid and a heating fluid flow control mechanism controls the flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
Description
SOLAR POWERED HEAT STORAGE DEVICE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to heat storage devices, and more particularly to a solar powered heat storage device using phase change materials.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Use of solar energy for providing electricity in remote regions, for example, for outdoor lighting, lighting of traffic signs, emergency lighting or other electric powered equipment is often limited because of performance degradation of the batteries used for storing electric energy produced by photovoltaic solar panels during daytime and for providing the same during absence of sufficient sunlight. This is particularly a problem in cold regions where energy output from a battery is significantly decreased due to exposure of the battery to low temperatures.
Present systems store solar energy by heating a liquid or solid material for heat storage.
Unfortunately, these systems are of substantial size and weight for storing a sufficient amount of heat and are, therefore, impractical for many applications such as, for example, mobile tower lights.
Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are substances with high heat of fusion, i.e.
when melting and solidifying at a phase change temperature PCMs are capable of storing and releasing large amounts of heat, respectively. Heat is absorbed when the PCM changes from solid to liquid and released when the PCM changes from liquid to solid. When heated in the solid phase the temperature of the PCM rises initially as heat is absorbed until the phase change temperature is reached. The PCM then absorbs large amounts of heat at a substantially constant temperature until all the material is transformed into the liquid phase. During cooling this process is reversed, i.e. large amounts of heat are released until all the PCM is solidified.
However, employment of PCMs for heat storage is impeded due to poor thermal conductivity of the PCMs in the solid phase, i.e. during cooling the PCMs solidify starting at container walls and Page 1 of 14 preventing effective heat transfer with increasing thickness.
It is desirable to provide a simple and effective heat storage device using PCMs.
It is also desirable to provide a solar powered system that is capable of storing solar energy for heating batteries by employing a heat storage device using PCMs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a simple and effective heat storage device using PCMs.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a solar powered system that is capable of storing solar energy for heating batteries by employing a heat storage device using PCMs.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solar powered heating system. The heating system comprises a heat storage container made of a heat conductive material having a phase change material disposed therein. A heating mechanism heats the phase change material to induce a phase change of the same. A solar panel is connected to the heating mechanism for capturing solar energy and providing the same to the heating mechanism. The heating system further comprises a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change material and the heating fluid is enabled. The heating conduit is connected to an enclosure for providing heating thereto. A
heating fluid actuator induces flow of the heating fluid and a heating fluid flow control mechanism controls the flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is further provided a phase change heater. The phase change heater comprises at least two heat storage containers made of a heat conductive material. Each heat storage container has a phase change material disposed therein, wherein at least two phase change materials have a different phase change temperature. A
heating mechanism heats the phase change material to induce a phase change of the same. The heating system further comprises a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change materials and the heating fluid is Page 2 of 14 enabled. The heating conduit is connected to an enclosure for providing heating thereto. A
heating fluid actuator induces flow of the heating fluid and a heating fluid flow control mechanism controls the flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides a simple and effective heat storage device using PCMs.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a solar powered system that is capable of storing solar energy for heating batteries by employing a heat storage device using PCMs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 A is a simplified block diagram of a heating system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 1B is a cross-sectional view along a longitudinal axis of a heat storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 1 C is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the heat storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 113;
Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view along a longitudinal axis of a heat storage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the heat storage device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 2A;
Page 3 of 14 Figure 2C is a perspective view of the heat storage device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B;
Figure 3A is a simplified block diagram illustrating a tower light according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, Figure 3B is a perspective view of the tower light according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 3A.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.
Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
Referring to Figures 1 A to 1 C, a solar powered heating system 100 according to an embodiment of the invention is provided. The solar powered heating system 100 stores solar energy captured using solar panel 102 in heat storage device 106 using PCMs. The heat storage device 106 comprises heat storage containers 120A and 120B having a PCM disposed therein.
The heat storage containers 120A and 120B are made of a heat conductive material such as, for example, plastic or metal tubing which is sealable capped on each end for containing the PCM such as, for example, wax, in a solid or liquid phase therein. The heat storage containers are disposed outside and/or inside a heating conduit 122 made of, for example, plastic or metal tubing. The cross-sectional shape of the heating conduit is not limited to a circular cross-section, as illustrated in Figure 1 C, but other shapes such as, for example, oval or rectangular shapes are also applicable.
The heat storage containers 120A and 120B are disposed such that substantially efficient heat transfer between the PCM and a heating fluid - for example, air; water; or glycol - disposed in the heating conduit 122 and flowing there through is enabled. As illustrated in Figures 1B and 1 C, the heat storage container 120A is disposed inside the heating conduit 122, while the heat storage container 120B is disposed on the outside wall of the heating conduit 122 forming, for example, a helical coil surrounding the heating conduit 122 and being in thermal contact Page 4 of 14 therewith.
Heating fluid actuator 104 - for example, an electrically operated fan or pump - is connected to the photovoltaic solar panel 102 (and/or a battery source) for receiving electrical energy there from and inducing a flow of the heating fluid. Using heating mechanism 105 -for example, an electrical heating element connected to the photovoltaic solar panel 102 - the heating fluid is heated. Flow of the heating fluid is controlled using a heating fluid flow control mechanism 108A and 108B such as, for example, damper valves placed, for example, as illustrated in Figure 1 A or at an input side and an output side of the heating storage device 106.
In operation solar energy captured by the photovoltaic solar panel 102 is transformed into electrical energy and provided to the heating fluid actuator 104 and the heating mechanism 105 for inducing a flow of the heating fluid and for heating the same. When passing through the heating conduit 122, heat energy is transferred from the heating fluid via the heat storage containers 120A and 120B to the PCM. The temperature of the PCM increases until the phase change temperature is reached at which a substantially large amount of heat energy is absorbed until substantially all the PCM is transformed into the liquid phase. During the reverse process -for example, for heating an enclosure connected to the solar powered heating system 100 in absence of solar energy - the heating mechanism 105 is shut off and the heating fluid actuator 104 is, for example, battery operated. Heat energy is then transferred from the PCM to the heating fluid until substantially all of the PCM is transformed into the solid phase. It is noted that further heat energy is stored/released before and after the phase transition of the PCM, but the amount of heat energy is relatively small compared to the heat of fusion stored/released during the phase transition.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the process of storing/releasing heat energy is controlled using controller 112 which is, for example, connected to the heating fluid actuator 104, the heating mechanism 105, the heating fluid flow control mechanism 108A
and 108B, and one or more temperature sensors. The controller 112 controls the heating fluid flow in dependence upon, for example, the temperature sensor data, data indicative of electrical energy provided from the solar panel, and stored threshold data - for example, desired temperature range of the enclosure - using, for example, a processor.
Page 5 of 14 The heat storage containers 120A and 120B are designed such that a sufficient amount of PCM
is contained therein for storing a predetermined amount of heat energy.
Furthermore, the heat storage containers 120A and 120B are designed such that an efficient heat transfer between the heating fluid and the PCM as well as within the heat storage containers 120A
and 120B is achieved, for example, by providing a sufficiently large surface area of the heat storage container walls in the form of, for example, a long tubing having a relatively small diameter. Optionally, heat transfer within the PCM - when in the solid state - is facilitated by disposing a heat conductive material such as, for example, a copper wire mesh in contact with the heat container walls therein. As is evident, size, shape and number of the heat storage containers as well as the heating conduit is variable and determined in dependence upon application requirements. For example, the heating conduit 122 has a cross-sectional shape other than circular such as oval or rectangular.
Alternatively, the PCM is heated using heating elements that are disposed within the heat storage containers or on the outside surface of the heat storage containers and in thermal contact therewith.
Further alternatively, the heating element 105 comprises a conduit having contained therein a heating fluid such as, for example, glycol, which is circulated to and from a solar panel for directly transforming solar energy into heat energy of the heating fluid.
Preferably, but not limited thereto, PCMs having a phase change between a solid phase and a liquid phase are employed. Use of PCMs having a phase change between a liquid phase and a gaseous phase is limited due to substantial expansion of the PCM when transformed from the liquid phase to the gaseous phase.
There are numerous PCMs available having different phase change temperatures or ranges of phase change temperatures, some exemplary PCMs are listed in Table I herein below, but the invention is not limited thereto.
CM hase Change Temperature C
strowax 27 7 strowax 32 1332 strowax 54 1554 Page 6 of 14 eeswax 52-64 anolin 38-44 anocerin 11-51 hellac 14-82 )zokerite 52 arnauba 3 andellila 58-74 o'oba ontan 4-94 araffin 50-57 croc stalline 50-80 i h density ol eth lene 126 ow density ol eth lene 110 ol etrafluoroeth lene 330 0l amide 12-255 alcium chloride hexahydrate 9 odium sulphate decahydrate 32 ;odium acetate trihydrate 58 eresine 54-71 s arto wax 13 ;oy wax 19-82 ork fats (lard) 0-48 Table 1 Using PCMs, heat energy produced by the heating element 105 is only stored in a sufficient amount when the phase change temperature of the PCM has been reached. For example, using Astrowax 54 - having a phase change temperature of 54 C - in the heating system 100, only one third of the heat generated by the heating element 105 is stored.
Combining use of Astrowax 54 in a first heat storage container with, for example, Astrowax 32 - having a phase change temperature of 32 C - in the heating system 100, substantially increases the portion of the heat energy that is stored in an efficient manner. Furthermore, use of two or more PCMs having different phase change temperatures substantially increases the flexibility of the heating system 100. For example, it enables design of a system for simultaneously storing heat energy and heating an enclosure connected thereto within a predetermined temperature range. Furthermore, it enables, for example, the design of a system that is capable of providing some limited heating at a lower temperature when the heat storage for providing heating at a higher temperature is exhausted and is capable of heat storage for providing limited heating at a lower temperature when the solar energy is insufficient for heat storage for providing heating at a higher temperature. Preferably, the heat storage container comprising the PCM having the lowest phase Page 7 of 14 change temperature is placed inside the heating conduit 122.
Referring to Figures 2A to 2C, a preferred embodiment of a phase change heater 200 according to the invention is shown. The phase change heater 200 comprises heat storage containers 220A
to 220E having different PCMs disposed therein. Preferably, the heat storage containers 220A
and 220B contain Astrowax 27 - having a phase change temperature of 27 C and a heat of fusion of 200 kJ/kG, while one or two of the heat storage containers 220C to 220E contain Astrowax 32 - having a phase change temperature of 32 C and a heat of fusion of 200 kJ/kG, and the remaining one or two of the heat storage containers 220C to 220E
contain Astrowax 42 -having a phase change temperature of 42 C and a heat of fusion of 200 kJ/kG.
The heat storage containers 220A to 220E are made of a heat conductive material such as, for example, plastic (preferably high density polyethylene) or metal tubing which is sealable capped on each end for containing the PCMs in a solid or liquid phase therein.
The heat storage containers 220C to 220E are disposed outside heating conduit 222 forming three helical coils surrounding the heating conduit 222 and being in thermal contact therewith.
The heating conduit 222 is made of, for example, plastic (preferably high density polyethylene) or metal tubing and has an oval shaped cross-section. The heat storage containers 220A and 220B are disposed inside the heating conduit 222 oriented substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the heating conduit 222. The heat storage containers 220A to 220E are disposed such that substantially efficient heat transfer between the different PCMs and a heating fluid - air -disposed in the heating conduit 222 and flowing there through is enabled.
Plastic mesh 228 is preferably disposed surrounding the heat storage containers 220C to 220E
for holding the heat storage containers 220C to 220E in contact with the heating conduit 222.
The heating conduit 222 and the heat storage containers 220A to 220E are placed in a housing 226, preferably, a zinc galvanized tubular member having a rectangular cross-section with insulating materia1224 disposed there between.
Referring to Figures 3A and 3B, a preferred embodiment of a solar powered mobile tower light 300 according to the invention is shown. The tower light 300 comprises a photovoltaic solar pane1302 for capturing solar energy and transforming it into electric energy.
The tower light 300 further comprises: batteries 310 for storing electric energy provided by the solar pane1302 and Page 8 of 14 for providing the same to light 311 during absence of solar energy; solar powered heating system 100 for receiving electric energy from the solar pane1302 and for storing the electric energy in the form of heat energy and for providing the stored heat energy during absence of solar energy;
ducts 308 for circulating a heating fluid to and from the heating system 100 and for providing the heat to the batteries 310; and control circuitry 312 connected to the solar panel, the heating system 100, the batteries, and the light 311. Preferably, the batteries 310, the heating system 100, the ducts 308, and the control circuitry 312 are disposed in an insulated 306 housing 304.
Preferably, the heating system 100 is designed as described above with respect to Figures 2A to 2C. In operation, solar energy is captured during daytime and provided as electric energy for storage in the batteries 310. After the batteries are charged the surplus electric energy provided by the solar panel 302 is provided to the heating system 100 for transformation into heat energy which is then stored in the PCM(s) thereof. During absence of solar energy the electricity stored in the batteries 310 is provided to the light 311, preferably a LED light for maximum efficiency, and the heat energy stored in the heating system 100 is used for heating a heating fluid, preferably air, which is circulated in the ducts 308 for heating the batteries. Heating of the batteries 310 increases their capacity at low ambient temperatures - in particular, when used in cold climate regions - i.e. more electric energy is available for enabling longer lighting periods.
Furthermore, disposing electronic circuits such as the control circuitry 312 within the insulated 306 housing 304 facilitates design of the electric circuitry with respect to complexity and robustness.
Optionally, electric energy is provided to the heating system 100 during charging of the batteries 310 for heating the heating fluid - for example, to a temperature below the phase change temperature of the PCM - and subsequently heating the batteries to increase their capacity for storing electric energy when exposed to low temperatures during daytime.
The operation of the heating system 100 is controlled using control circuitry 312 and is, preferably, automated. For example, the control circuitry 312 comprises a temperature sensor disposed in the insulated housing 304 for regulating the temperature therein within a predetermined temperature range. Furthermore, the control circuitry 312 senses when the batteries are charged and then provides the electric energy to the heating system 100. Optionally, the control circuitry 312 provides some electric energy to the heating system 100 when the temperature in the insulated housing is below a predetermined temperature for efficiently Page 9 of 14 charging the batteries.
Optionally, the heating system 100 and the batteries 310 are placed within the insulated housing such that a circulation of the heating fluid within the insulated housing is enabled in absence of the ducts 308.
Provision of the heating system 100 for heating the batteries enables provision of a solar powered tower light 300 as a mobile unit using, for example, trailer 316 having disposed thereupon the housing 304, the solar panel 302 and the light 311 mounted, for example, to a telescopic mast 314.
As is evident, the heating system 100 is employable in a similar fashion in numerous applications other than the tower light 300 such as, for example, traffic signs, traffic lights, communication equipment, and provision of a heated enclosure, to name a few.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments.
However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Page 10 of 14
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to heat storage devices, and more particularly to a solar powered heat storage device using phase change materials.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Use of solar energy for providing electricity in remote regions, for example, for outdoor lighting, lighting of traffic signs, emergency lighting or other electric powered equipment is often limited because of performance degradation of the batteries used for storing electric energy produced by photovoltaic solar panels during daytime and for providing the same during absence of sufficient sunlight. This is particularly a problem in cold regions where energy output from a battery is significantly decreased due to exposure of the battery to low temperatures.
Present systems store solar energy by heating a liquid or solid material for heat storage.
Unfortunately, these systems are of substantial size and weight for storing a sufficient amount of heat and are, therefore, impractical for many applications such as, for example, mobile tower lights.
Phase Change Materials (PCMs) are substances with high heat of fusion, i.e.
when melting and solidifying at a phase change temperature PCMs are capable of storing and releasing large amounts of heat, respectively. Heat is absorbed when the PCM changes from solid to liquid and released when the PCM changes from liquid to solid. When heated in the solid phase the temperature of the PCM rises initially as heat is absorbed until the phase change temperature is reached. The PCM then absorbs large amounts of heat at a substantially constant temperature until all the material is transformed into the liquid phase. During cooling this process is reversed, i.e. large amounts of heat are released until all the PCM is solidified.
However, employment of PCMs for heat storage is impeded due to poor thermal conductivity of the PCMs in the solid phase, i.e. during cooling the PCMs solidify starting at container walls and Page 1 of 14 preventing effective heat transfer with increasing thickness.
It is desirable to provide a simple and effective heat storage device using PCMs.
It is also desirable to provide a solar powered system that is capable of storing solar energy for heating batteries by employing a heat storage device using PCMs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a simple and effective heat storage device using PCMs.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a solar powered system that is capable of storing solar energy for heating batteries by employing a heat storage device using PCMs.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a solar powered heating system. The heating system comprises a heat storage container made of a heat conductive material having a phase change material disposed therein. A heating mechanism heats the phase change material to induce a phase change of the same. A solar panel is connected to the heating mechanism for capturing solar energy and providing the same to the heating mechanism. The heating system further comprises a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change material and the heating fluid is enabled. The heating conduit is connected to an enclosure for providing heating thereto. A
heating fluid actuator induces flow of the heating fluid and a heating fluid flow control mechanism controls the flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is further provided a phase change heater. The phase change heater comprises at least two heat storage containers made of a heat conductive material. Each heat storage container has a phase change material disposed therein, wherein at least two phase change materials have a different phase change temperature. A
heating mechanism heats the phase change material to induce a phase change of the same. The heating system further comprises a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change materials and the heating fluid is Page 2 of 14 enabled. The heating conduit is connected to an enclosure for providing heating thereto. A
heating fluid actuator induces flow of the heating fluid and a heating fluid flow control mechanism controls the flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides a simple and effective heat storage device using PCMs.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a solar powered system that is capable of storing solar energy for heating batteries by employing a heat storage device using PCMs.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 A is a simplified block diagram of a heating system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 1B is a cross-sectional view along a longitudinal axis of a heat storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 1 C is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the heat storage device according to an embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 113;
Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view along a longitudinal axis of a heat storage device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2B is a cross-sectional view perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the heat storage device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 2A;
Page 3 of 14 Figure 2C is a perspective view of the heat storage device according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B;
Figure 3A is a simplified block diagram illustrating a tower light according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and, Figure 3B is a perspective view of the tower light according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figure 3A.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.
Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
Referring to Figures 1 A to 1 C, a solar powered heating system 100 according to an embodiment of the invention is provided. The solar powered heating system 100 stores solar energy captured using solar panel 102 in heat storage device 106 using PCMs. The heat storage device 106 comprises heat storage containers 120A and 120B having a PCM disposed therein.
The heat storage containers 120A and 120B are made of a heat conductive material such as, for example, plastic or metal tubing which is sealable capped on each end for containing the PCM such as, for example, wax, in a solid or liquid phase therein. The heat storage containers are disposed outside and/or inside a heating conduit 122 made of, for example, plastic or metal tubing. The cross-sectional shape of the heating conduit is not limited to a circular cross-section, as illustrated in Figure 1 C, but other shapes such as, for example, oval or rectangular shapes are also applicable.
The heat storage containers 120A and 120B are disposed such that substantially efficient heat transfer between the PCM and a heating fluid - for example, air; water; or glycol - disposed in the heating conduit 122 and flowing there through is enabled. As illustrated in Figures 1B and 1 C, the heat storage container 120A is disposed inside the heating conduit 122, while the heat storage container 120B is disposed on the outside wall of the heating conduit 122 forming, for example, a helical coil surrounding the heating conduit 122 and being in thermal contact Page 4 of 14 therewith.
Heating fluid actuator 104 - for example, an electrically operated fan or pump - is connected to the photovoltaic solar panel 102 (and/or a battery source) for receiving electrical energy there from and inducing a flow of the heating fluid. Using heating mechanism 105 -for example, an electrical heating element connected to the photovoltaic solar panel 102 - the heating fluid is heated. Flow of the heating fluid is controlled using a heating fluid flow control mechanism 108A and 108B such as, for example, damper valves placed, for example, as illustrated in Figure 1 A or at an input side and an output side of the heating storage device 106.
In operation solar energy captured by the photovoltaic solar panel 102 is transformed into electrical energy and provided to the heating fluid actuator 104 and the heating mechanism 105 for inducing a flow of the heating fluid and for heating the same. When passing through the heating conduit 122, heat energy is transferred from the heating fluid via the heat storage containers 120A and 120B to the PCM. The temperature of the PCM increases until the phase change temperature is reached at which a substantially large amount of heat energy is absorbed until substantially all the PCM is transformed into the liquid phase. During the reverse process -for example, for heating an enclosure connected to the solar powered heating system 100 in absence of solar energy - the heating mechanism 105 is shut off and the heating fluid actuator 104 is, for example, battery operated. Heat energy is then transferred from the PCM to the heating fluid until substantially all of the PCM is transformed into the solid phase. It is noted that further heat energy is stored/released before and after the phase transition of the PCM, but the amount of heat energy is relatively small compared to the heat of fusion stored/released during the phase transition.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the process of storing/releasing heat energy is controlled using controller 112 which is, for example, connected to the heating fluid actuator 104, the heating mechanism 105, the heating fluid flow control mechanism 108A
and 108B, and one or more temperature sensors. The controller 112 controls the heating fluid flow in dependence upon, for example, the temperature sensor data, data indicative of electrical energy provided from the solar panel, and stored threshold data - for example, desired temperature range of the enclosure - using, for example, a processor.
Page 5 of 14 The heat storage containers 120A and 120B are designed such that a sufficient amount of PCM
is contained therein for storing a predetermined amount of heat energy.
Furthermore, the heat storage containers 120A and 120B are designed such that an efficient heat transfer between the heating fluid and the PCM as well as within the heat storage containers 120A
and 120B is achieved, for example, by providing a sufficiently large surface area of the heat storage container walls in the form of, for example, a long tubing having a relatively small diameter. Optionally, heat transfer within the PCM - when in the solid state - is facilitated by disposing a heat conductive material such as, for example, a copper wire mesh in contact with the heat container walls therein. As is evident, size, shape and number of the heat storage containers as well as the heating conduit is variable and determined in dependence upon application requirements. For example, the heating conduit 122 has a cross-sectional shape other than circular such as oval or rectangular.
Alternatively, the PCM is heated using heating elements that are disposed within the heat storage containers or on the outside surface of the heat storage containers and in thermal contact therewith.
Further alternatively, the heating element 105 comprises a conduit having contained therein a heating fluid such as, for example, glycol, which is circulated to and from a solar panel for directly transforming solar energy into heat energy of the heating fluid.
Preferably, but not limited thereto, PCMs having a phase change between a solid phase and a liquid phase are employed. Use of PCMs having a phase change between a liquid phase and a gaseous phase is limited due to substantial expansion of the PCM when transformed from the liquid phase to the gaseous phase.
There are numerous PCMs available having different phase change temperatures or ranges of phase change temperatures, some exemplary PCMs are listed in Table I herein below, but the invention is not limited thereto.
CM hase Change Temperature C
strowax 27 7 strowax 32 1332 strowax 54 1554 Page 6 of 14 eeswax 52-64 anolin 38-44 anocerin 11-51 hellac 14-82 )zokerite 52 arnauba 3 andellila 58-74 o'oba ontan 4-94 araffin 50-57 croc stalline 50-80 i h density ol eth lene 126 ow density ol eth lene 110 ol etrafluoroeth lene 330 0l amide 12-255 alcium chloride hexahydrate 9 odium sulphate decahydrate 32 ;odium acetate trihydrate 58 eresine 54-71 s arto wax 13 ;oy wax 19-82 ork fats (lard) 0-48 Table 1 Using PCMs, heat energy produced by the heating element 105 is only stored in a sufficient amount when the phase change temperature of the PCM has been reached. For example, using Astrowax 54 - having a phase change temperature of 54 C - in the heating system 100, only one third of the heat generated by the heating element 105 is stored.
Combining use of Astrowax 54 in a first heat storage container with, for example, Astrowax 32 - having a phase change temperature of 32 C - in the heating system 100, substantially increases the portion of the heat energy that is stored in an efficient manner. Furthermore, use of two or more PCMs having different phase change temperatures substantially increases the flexibility of the heating system 100. For example, it enables design of a system for simultaneously storing heat energy and heating an enclosure connected thereto within a predetermined temperature range. Furthermore, it enables, for example, the design of a system that is capable of providing some limited heating at a lower temperature when the heat storage for providing heating at a higher temperature is exhausted and is capable of heat storage for providing limited heating at a lower temperature when the solar energy is insufficient for heat storage for providing heating at a higher temperature. Preferably, the heat storage container comprising the PCM having the lowest phase Page 7 of 14 change temperature is placed inside the heating conduit 122.
Referring to Figures 2A to 2C, a preferred embodiment of a phase change heater 200 according to the invention is shown. The phase change heater 200 comprises heat storage containers 220A
to 220E having different PCMs disposed therein. Preferably, the heat storage containers 220A
and 220B contain Astrowax 27 - having a phase change temperature of 27 C and a heat of fusion of 200 kJ/kG, while one or two of the heat storage containers 220C to 220E contain Astrowax 32 - having a phase change temperature of 32 C and a heat of fusion of 200 kJ/kG, and the remaining one or two of the heat storage containers 220C to 220E
contain Astrowax 42 -having a phase change temperature of 42 C and a heat of fusion of 200 kJ/kG.
The heat storage containers 220A to 220E are made of a heat conductive material such as, for example, plastic (preferably high density polyethylene) or metal tubing which is sealable capped on each end for containing the PCMs in a solid or liquid phase therein.
The heat storage containers 220C to 220E are disposed outside heating conduit 222 forming three helical coils surrounding the heating conduit 222 and being in thermal contact therewith.
The heating conduit 222 is made of, for example, plastic (preferably high density polyethylene) or metal tubing and has an oval shaped cross-section. The heat storage containers 220A and 220B are disposed inside the heating conduit 222 oriented substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the heating conduit 222. The heat storage containers 220A to 220E are disposed such that substantially efficient heat transfer between the different PCMs and a heating fluid - air -disposed in the heating conduit 222 and flowing there through is enabled.
Plastic mesh 228 is preferably disposed surrounding the heat storage containers 220C to 220E
for holding the heat storage containers 220C to 220E in contact with the heating conduit 222.
The heating conduit 222 and the heat storage containers 220A to 220E are placed in a housing 226, preferably, a zinc galvanized tubular member having a rectangular cross-section with insulating materia1224 disposed there between.
Referring to Figures 3A and 3B, a preferred embodiment of a solar powered mobile tower light 300 according to the invention is shown. The tower light 300 comprises a photovoltaic solar pane1302 for capturing solar energy and transforming it into electric energy.
The tower light 300 further comprises: batteries 310 for storing electric energy provided by the solar pane1302 and Page 8 of 14 for providing the same to light 311 during absence of solar energy; solar powered heating system 100 for receiving electric energy from the solar pane1302 and for storing the electric energy in the form of heat energy and for providing the stored heat energy during absence of solar energy;
ducts 308 for circulating a heating fluid to and from the heating system 100 and for providing the heat to the batteries 310; and control circuitry 312 connected to the solar panel, the heating system 100, the batteries, and the light 311. Preferably, the batteries 310, the heating system 100, the ducts 308, and the control circuitry 312 are disposed in an insulated 306 housing 304.
Preferably, the heating system 100 is designed as described above with respect to Figures 2A to 2C. In operation, solar energy is captured during daytime and provided as electric energy for storage in the batteries 310. After the batteries are charged the surplus electric energy provided by the solar panel 302 is provided to the heating system 100 for transformation into heat energy which is then stored in the PCM(s) thereof. During absence of solar energy the electricity stored in the batteries 310 is provided to the light 311, preferably a LED light for maximum efficiency, and the heat energy stored in the heating system 100 is used for heating a heating fluid, preferably air, which is circulated in the ducts 308 for heating the batteries. Heating of the batteries 310 increases their capacity at low ambient temperatures - in particular, when used in cold climate regions - i.e. more electric energy is available for enabling longer lighting periods.
Furthermore, disposing electronic circuits such as the control circuitry 312 within the insulated 306 housing 304 facilitates design of the electric circuitry with respect to complexity and robustness.
Optionally, electric energy is provided to the heating system 100 during charging of the batteries 310 for heating the heating fluid - for example, to a temperature below the phase change temperature of the PCM - and subsequently heating the batteries to increase their capacity for storing electric energy when exposed to low temperatures during daytime.
The operation of the heating system 100 is controlled using control circuitry 312 and is, preferably, automated. For example, the control circuitry 312 comprises a temperature sensor disposed in the insulated housing 304 for regulating the temperature therein within a predetermined temperature range. Furthermore, the control circuitry 312 senses when the batteries are charged and then provides the electric energy to the heating system 100. Optionally, the control circuitry 312 provides some electric energy to the heating system 100 when the temperature in the insulated housing is below a predetermined temperature for efficiently Page 9 of 14 charging the batteries.
Optionally, the heating system 100 and the batteries 310 are placed within the insulated housing such that a circulation of the heating fluid within the insulated housing is enabled in absence of the ducts 308.
Provision of the heating system 100 for heating the batteries enables provision of a solar powered tower light 300 as a mobile unit using, for example, trailer 316 having disposed thereupon the housing 304, the solar panel 302 and the light 311 mounted, for example, to a telescopic mast 314.
As is evident, the heating system 100 is employable in a similar fashion in numerous applications other than the tower light 300 such as, for example, traffic signs, traffic lights, communication equipment, and provision of a heated enclosure, to name a few.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments.
However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Page 10 of 14
Claims (15)
1. A solar powered heating system comprising:
a heat storage container made of a heat conductive material having a phase change material disposed therein;
a heating mechanism for heating the phase change material to induce a phase change of the same;
a solar panel connected to the heating mechanism for capturing solar energy and providing the same to the heating mechanism;
a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change material and the heating fluid is enabled, the heating conduit for being connected to an enclosure for providing heating thereto;
a heating fluid actuator for inducing flow of the heating fluid; and, a heating fluid flow control mechanism for controlling flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
a heat storage container made of a heat conductive material having a phase change material disposed therein;
a heating mechanism for heating the phase change material to induce a phase change of the same;
a solar panel connected to the heating mechanism for capturing solar energy and providing the same to the heating mechanism;
a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change material and the heating fluid is enabled, the heating conduit for being connected to an enclosure for providing heating thereto;
a heating fluid actuator for inducing flow of the heating fluid; and, a heating fluid flow control mechanism for controlling flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
2. A solar powered system as defined in claim 1 wherein the solar panel is a photovoltaic solar panel connected to the heating mechanism and the heating fluid actuator for providing electric energy thereto.
3. A solar powered system as defined in claim 2 wherein the heating fluid is air and wherein the heating fluid actuator comprises a fan.
4. A solar powered system as defined in claim 3 wherein the heat storage container comprises at least two heat storage containers, each heat storage container having a phase change material disposed therein, wherein at least two phase change materials have a different phase change temperature.
5. A solar powered system as defined in claim 2 comprising the enclosure connected to the heating conduit, the enclosure having disposed therein a battery connected to the photovoltaic solar panel for receiving electric energy there from.
6. A solar powered system as defined in claim 5 comprising a tower light connected to the battery.
7. A phase change heater comprising:
at least two heat storage containers made of a heat conductive material, each heat storage container having a phase change material disposed therein, wherein at least two phase change materials have a different phase change temperature;
a heating mechanism for heating the phase change materials to induce a phase change of the same;
a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change materials and the heating fluid is enabled;
a heating fluid actuator for inducing flow of the heating fluid; and, a heating fluid flow control mechanism for controlling flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
at least two heat storage containers made of a heat conductive material, each heat storage container having a phase change material disposed therein, wherein at least two phase change materials have a different phase change temperature;
a heating mechanism for heating the phase change materials to induce a phase change of the same;
a heating conduit for enabling flow of a heating fluid there through such that a heat transfer between the phase change materials and the heating fluid is enabled;
a heating fluid actuator for inducing flow of the heating fluid; and, a heating fluid flow control mechanism for controlling flow of the heating fluid through the heating conduit.
8. A phase change heater as defined in claim 7 wherein each of the heat storage containers comprises tubing, the tubing being sealed at both ends for containing the phase change material therein.
9. A phase change heater as defined in claim 8 wherein the heating conduit comprises tubing.
10. A phase change heater as defined in claim 9 wherein at least one of the heat storage containers is disposed around an outside surface of the heating conduit in a helical fashion.
11. A phase change heater as defined in claim 10 wherein at least one of the heat storage containers is disposed inside the heating conduit.
12. A phase change heater as defined in claim 7 wherein the phase change materials change phase between a solid phase and a liquid phase within an operating temperature range of the phase change heater.
13. A phase change heater as defined in claim 12 wherein the phase change materials comprise a wax.
14. A phase change heater as defined in claim 7 wherein at least one of the heat storage containers is disposed outside the heating conduit in thermal contact therewith and at least one of the heat storage containers is disposed inside the heating conduit.
15. A phase change heater as defined in claim 14 wherein the phase change material of the at least one of the heat storage containers disposed inside the heating conduit has a lower phase change temperature than the phase change material of the at least one of the heat storage containers disposed outside the heating conduit.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2643888 CA2643888A1 (en) | 2008-11-17 | 2008-11-17 | Solar powered heat storage device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2643888 CA2643888A1 (en) | 2008-11-17 | 2008-11-17 | Solar powered heat storage device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2643888A1 true CA2643888A1 (en) | 2010-05-17 |
Family
ID=42212053
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2643888 Abandoned CA2643888A1 (en) | 2008-11-17 | 2008-11-17 | Solar powered heat storage device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2643888A1 (en) |
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2018098600A1 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-07 | Scheller Luzius | Flexible, thermally-insulated hybrid collectors |
| CN111793559A (en) * | 2020-07-22 | 2020-10-20 | 吉林建筑大学 | Electric heating phase-change heat storage biogas device |
| US11245142B2 (en) * | 2018-10-25 | 2022-02-08 | Sunlight Aerospace Inc. | Methods and apparatus for thermal energy management in electric vehicles |
| CN117109186A (en) * | 2023-08-25 | 2023-11-24 | 德州科辉太阳能有限公司 | Solar heat collecting tube heat increasing and storing device |
-
2008
- 2008-11-17 CA CA 2643888 patent/CA2643888A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2018098600A1 (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-07 | Scheller Luzius | Flexible, thermally-insulated hybrid collectors |
| US11245142B2 (en) * | 2018-10-25 | 2022-02-08 | Sunlight Aerospace Inc. | Methods and apparatus for thermal energy management in electric vehicles |
| CN111793559A (en) * | 2020-07-22 | 2020-10-20 | 吉林建筑大学 | Electric heating phase-change heat storage biogas device |
| CN117109186A (en) * | 2023-08-25 | 2023-11-24 | 德州科辉太阳能有限公司 | Solar heat collecting tube heat increasing and storing device |
| CN117109186B (en) * | 2023-08-25 | 2024-06-07 | 德州科辉太阳能有限公司 | Solar heat collecting tube heat increasing and storing device |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| JP5436727B2 (en) | Thermoelectric generator | |
| Douvi et al. | Phase change materials in solar domestic hot water systems: A review | |
| CN105202959B (en) | Energy storage system | |
| US7505269B1 (en) | Thermal energy storage transfer system | |
| Qi et al. | A portable solar-powered air-cooling system based on phase-change materials for a vehicle cabin | |
| CN203512059U (en) | High-efficiency spacecraft thermal management system | |
| WO2010140993A1 (en) | Flow solar collector | |
| JP2005241148A (en) | Heat pump system utilizing solar light and its operation controlling method | |
| CN104833253A (en) | Single-tank heat storage device with phase change heat storage function and use method thereof | |
| CA2643888A1 (en) | Solar powered heat storage device | |
| GB2493092A (en) | Electricity generation apparatus having a thermal store and thermoelectric heat exchanger | |
| CN201401863Y (en) | Photoelectric energy-storage super-conduction solar energy radiating rib | |
| CN104247144A (en) | Lithium battery electric core module and design method of battery package cooling system | |
| WO2013182916A1 (en) | Solar collector | |
| RU166483U1 (en) | THERMOELECTRIC GENERATOR | |
| CN110081374A (en) | A kind of LED light group with photovoltaic lithium electricity storage | |
| CN210680321U (en) | Portable phase-change heat storage and supply device | |
| CN102003828A (en) | Radiation refrigeration method and device | |
| JP6820032B2 (en) | Heat generator and its applications | |
| CN203744575U (en) | Single-cavity heat accumulating type system for heating, heat transferring and heat accumulating of concentrated solar thermal through fluids | |
| RU2626242C1 (en) | Method of work of thermoelectric generator | |
| JP7003080B2 (en) | Solar water heater and solar heat utilization system | |
| CN104631903B (en) | A kind of both cooling and heating solar camping tent | |
| US20180231332A1 (en) | Renewable energy heater | |
| CN205048621U (en) | Cold and hot fan of electron environmental protection |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20131119 |