U.S. patent application number 12/748615 was filed with the patent office on 2010-08-26 for systems, apparatuses and methods for processing the contents of tanks and containers, and methods for modifying the processing capabilities of tanks and containers.
Invention is credited to David D. Rule.
Application Number | 20100212860 12/748615 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38685454 |
Filed Date | 2010-08-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100212860 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rule; David D. |
August 26, 2010 |
Systems, Apparatuses and Methods for Processing the Contents of
Tanks and Containers, and Methods for Modifying the Processing
Capabilities of Tanks and Containers
Abstract
A method for modifying the processing capabilities of a
container. The method includes providing a container that defines a
cavity and comprises a wall. The wall defines at least a portion of
the cavity and has thermal energy transfer characteristics. At
least one of the thermal energy transfer characteristics comprises
a first value. Changing the first value of the one thermal energy
transfer characteristic to a second value for at least a first
portion of the wall, the second value being different from the
first value.
Inventors: |
Rule; David D.; (Weiser,
ID) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WELLS ST. JOHN P.S.
601 W. FIRST AVENUE, SUITE 1300
SPOKANE
WA
99201
US
|
Family ID: |
38685454 |
Appl. No.: |
12/748615 |
Filed: |
March 29, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11433323 |
May 11, 2006 |
7685715 |
|
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12748615 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
165/53 ; 165/136;
165/185; 165/96 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 29/49345 20150115;
Y10T 29/49352 20150115; Y10T 29/49387 20150115; B65D 90/028
20130101; C12G 1/0213 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
165/53 ; 165/136;
165/185; 165/96 |
International
Class: |
F24D 19/00 20060101
F24D019/00; F28F 13/00 20060101 F28F013/00; F28F 7/00 20060101
F28F007/00; F28F 25/12 20060101 F28F025/12 |
Claims
1-14. (canceled)
15. A container comprising: a wall comprising an outer surface
opposite an inner surface, the inner surface defining at least a
portion of a cavity, the wall having a first rate of thermal energy
transfer; and a fluid channel over at least a segment of the outer
surface of the wall, at least a portion of the segment having a
second rate of thermal energy transfer being different from the
first rate of thermal energy transfer.
16. The container of claim 15 wherein the first rate of thermal
energy transfer is defined by a first degree of opaqueness, and
wherein the second rate of thermal energy transfer is defined by a
second degree of opaqueness, the second degree being different
relative the first degree.
17. The container of claim 15 wherein the second rate of thermal
energy transfer is defined by material over the portion of the
segment of the outer surface of the wall, and wherein the first
rate of thermal energy transfer is defined by sections of the wall
being devoid of the material.
18. The container of claim 15 wherein the first rate of thermal
energy transfer is defined by a first degree of reflectivity, and
wherein the second rate of thermal energy transfer is defined by a
second degree of reflectivity, the second degree being different
relative the first degree.
19. The container of claim 15 wherein the second rate of thermal
energy transfer is defined by a porous layer over the portion of
the segment of the outer surface of the wall, and wherein the first
rate of thermal energy transfer is defined by sections of the wall
being devoid of the material.
20. The container of claim 15 wherein the first rate of thermal
energy transfer is defined by a first thickness of the wall, and
wherein the second rate of thermal energy transfer is defined by a
second thickness of the wall, the second thickness being different
relative the first thickness.
21. A system for processing contents within a container, the system
comprising: a container comprising an outer surface opposite an
inner surface, the inner surface defining at least a portion of a
cavity; a fluid channel over at least a segment of the outer
surface of the wall, a first portion of the segment having a first
thermal energy transfer characteristic and a second portion of the
segment having a second thermal energy transfer characteristic
different from the first thermal energy transfer characteristic;
and a source of a fluid medium in fluid communication with the
fluid channel.
22. The system of claim 21 further comprising a heat exchanger in
fluid communication with the fluid channel and capable of altering
a temperature of the source of the fluid medium.
23. The system of claim 21 wherein the source of the fluid medium
comprises ambient air.
24. The system of claim 21 wherein the first portion of the segment
of the outer surface of the wall comprises an insulative layer, and
wherein the second portion of the segment of the outer surface of
the wall is devoid of the insulative layer.
25. A container comprising: a sidewall comprising a lower terminus;
a bottom wall covering the lower terminus of the sidewall, the
sidewall and bottom wall establishing a cavity to receive material;
a fluid channel over a first and a second portion of the sidewall,
the first portion being different from the second portion; and an
insulative layer over the first portion of the sidewall and the
second portion being devoid of the insulative layer.
26. The container of claim 25 wherein the first portion comprises
an outer surface of the sidewall.
27. The container of claim 25 wherein the first portion comprises
an inner surface of the sidewall.
28. The container of claim 25 wherein the insulative layer
comprises at least one of the following: solid material layer, a
porous layer, a screen structure, a mesh structure, plastic
material, a scratcher pad material, blown insulative material, a
foam material, coatings of material, paint material, paint material
with particles provided therein and any various combination of the
materials and structures.
29. The container of claim 25 wherein the insulative layer
comprises at least one of the following: molded polymer composite,
fiberglass, metal, metal alloy, metal foil, rubber, low density
foam, high density foam, Styrofoam, high density Styrofoam, high
density polyethylene foam and any various combination of the
materials.
30. The container of claim 25 wherein the fluid channel comprises
fin structures.
31. The container of claim 25 wherein the fluid channel comprises
vane structures, the vane structures comprising openings.
32. The container of claim 25 wherein the fluid channel comprises
vane structures, the vane structures comprising slots.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The invention pertains to systems, apparatuses and methods
for processing the contents of containers and tanks; methods for
modifying the processing capabilities of tanks and containers; and
more particularly, to systems, apparatuses and methods for
regulating, adjusting and controlling the temperatures of the
contents within containers and tanks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Containers, vessels and tanks (collectively referred to as
"tanks") are used throughout numerous industries to hold contents
therein during the manufacturing, processing, storing and
transporting (collectively referred to as "process(ing)") of the
contents. To produce and maintain quality characteristics of the
contents provided in the tanks, and ideally enhance the quality
characteristics, temperature of the contents is an important
parameter that must be continually controlled by adjusting,
modifying and regulating.
[0003] An exemplary industry that uses tanks to process contents
provided therein is the wine industry. The wine industry uses tanks
to receive and process fruit juice, for example grape juice, into
wine. The temperature of the juice during processing is arguably
the most important parameter or factor that can be selected,
adjusted and modified to produce and maintain wine having the
highest character and quality. That is, the juice and wine must be
maintained within strict temperature ranges or tolerances to enable
the quality production of the wine. Moreover, different stages of
production may require different temperatures for the production of
quality wine and each temperature is preferably stabilized to be
within a couple of degrees of an ideal temperature to enhance and
maintain that character and quality of the product.
[0004] Fermentation is an exemplary processing step of wine
production wherein temperature is a very important factor to be
controlled for establishing and maintaining the quality of the
wine. In fact, fermentation is the heart of wine making wherein
juice is processed and converted into wine. Accordingly, this
process greatly influences the character and quality of the final
wine product. Fermentation is a heat source process which is to say
that thermal energy as heat is generated during the process.
However, the fermentation process only occurs or progresses while
the juice is in a specific temperature range. Consequently, the
generation of heat during the fermentation process must be
controlled and maintained (that is, the temperature of the juice
must be maintained within the specific temperature range) to
continue the fermenting process. Otherwise, if the temperature is
not controlled, the juice will reach temperatures outside the
specific temperature range causing the fermentation process to take
a different biological and/or chemical process which is not
conducive to producing quality wine. Therefore, the temperature of
the juice must be continually adjusted, controlled and regulated to
produce a quality wine. Furthermore, when the juice and/or wine
reaches an undesirable temperature during any stage of processing,
it is desirable to adjust the temperature to reach a favorable
temperature as quickly as possible. Adjusting temperatures as
quickly as possible will increase the potential for producing
and/or maintaining a quality wine.
[0005] The current systems for adjusting, regulating and
controlling the temperatures during wine production are deficient
and inadequate to consistently produce the highest quality wine.
FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional thermal regulating system 2 for
an exemplary tank 4 used in the wine industry. Tank 4 comprises a
wall structure forming an inner volume or interior volume (not
shown) defined by an inner peripheral surface or interior surface
(not shown) to receive and hold the volume of grape juice/wine
mass. Thermal regulating system 2 comprises a thermal jacket 3
provided over a outer circumferential portion of an outer surface
area of tank 4. For convenience, outer surface area of tank 4 will
be referred to as an outer peripheral surface 6 (and understood to
be opposite interior surface) of tank 4 with thermal jacket 3 over
or covering only a portion of the outer peripheral surface 6.
[0006] In operation, a thermal source such as glycol is provided
through thermal jacket 3 via an inlet 11 and an outlet 13. Before
being provided to thermal jacket 3, the glycol is selectively
heated or cooled relative the juice mass depending on the
processing stage and desired temperature range of the juice mass
during the processing stage. A thermodynamic relationship is
developed between the glycol and juice mass wherein thermal energy
is transferred through the wall structure between the glycol and
juice mass. The thermal energy transfer occurs substantially across
that portion of the wall structure at the outer periphery surface 6
covered by thermal jacket 3 and to the opposite portion of the
interior surface not shown.
[0007] The thermal jackets 3 of conventional thermal regulating
systems 2 are expensive to purchase, maintain and operate.
Consequently, only a portion of the outer peripheral surface 6 of
tank 4 is covered by thermal jacket 3. The conventional wisdom of
the wine industry is that this design of the thermal regulating
system 2 is adequate to control the temperature of the contents
within the tank 4 and produce quality wine. For example, the wine
industry generally assumes that this design of the thermal
regulating system 2 is capable of forming a uniform temperature
throughout the wine mass. However, the wine industry is
mistaken.
[0008] Conventional thermal jackets 3 cover only 25% to 50% of the
entire surface area of the wall structure of tank 4. With only a
percentage or portion of the wall structure being provided in
direct contact with thermal jacket 3, only a percentage of the
juice mass within tank 4 is directly influenced by thermal energy
transfer, for example, by thermal conduction, convection and
radiation. The balance of the juice mass within tank 4 that is not
located directly opposite and adjacent the thermal jacket can only
be affected by the thermal energy transfer via thermal convection
and convection currents which must move throughout an entirety of
the column of the juice mass. This situation results in the
development of different regions within the juice mass having
different temperatures which detrimentally influences the quality
of the wine (more thoroughly discussed subsequently). This
development of temperature strata regions is not known or
understood by the wine industry.
[0009] Consequently, there is a need to improve the design of
thermal regulating systems of tanks, vessels and/or containers to
facilitate the control, regulation and quick adjustment of
temperatures for the contents provided therein. This improvement to
thermal regulating systems will greatly enhance and optimize the
capability of producing a quality product within the tanks, vessels
and/or containers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] In one aspect, the invention encompasses a method for
modifying the processing capabilities of a container. The method
includes providing a container that defines a cavity and comprises
a wall. The wall defines at least a portion of the cavity and has
thermal energy transfer characteristics. At least one of the
thermal energy transfer characteristics comprises a first value.
Changing the first value of the one thermal energy transfer
characteristic to a second value for at least a first portion of
the wall, the second value being different from the first
value.
[0011] In another aspect, the invention encompasses a method for
processing contents within a container. The method includes
providing a container comprising a sidewall. The sidewall having
thermal energy transfer characteristics. At least one of the
thermal energy transfer characteristics comprises a first value.
The method includes providing contents in the container and
transferring thermal energy across at least a portion of the
sidewall to the contents. The method includes changing the first
value of the one thermal energy transfer characteristic to a second
value for at least a segment of the portion of the sidewall, the
second value being different relative the first value.
[0012] In still another aspect, the invention encompasses a
container that comprises a wall. The wall includes an outer surface
opposite an inner surface, the inner surface defining at least a
portion of a cavity. The wall has a first rate of thermal energy
transfer. The container includes a fluid channel over at least a
segment of the outer surface of the wall. At least a portion of the
segment having a second rate of thermal energy transfer being
different from the first rate of thermal energy transfer.
[0013] In yet another aspect, the invention encompasses a system
for processing contents within a container. The system comprises a
container having an outer surface opposite an inner surface, the
inner surface defines at least a portion of a cavity. A fluid
channel is over at least a segment of the outer surface of the
wall. A first portion of the segment has a first thermal energy
transfer characteristic and a second portion of the segment has a
second thermal energy transfer characteristic different from the
first thermal energy transfer characteristic. A source of a fluid
medium is in fluid communication with the fluid channel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below
with reference to the following accompanying drawings.
[0015] FIG. 1 is a vertical perspective view of a prior art system
for regulating a temperature of contents within a tank.
[0016] FIG. 2 is the system of FIG. 1 illustrating temperature,
strata regions and current flows of the contents within the
tank.
[0017] FIG. 3 is a vertical perspective view of a system designed
by the inventor of the present invention for regulating
temperatures of contents within a container or tank.
[0018] FIG. 3A is a partial sectional view of the system of FIG.
3.
[0019] FIG. 4 is a vertical perspective view of an exemplary tank
illustrated at one method step for modification and incorporation
into a system for regulating temperatures of contents within the
exemplary tank according to a first embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 4A is a partial sectional view of the exemplary tank of
FIG. 4.
[0021] FIG. 5 is the exemplary tank of FIG. 4 illustrated at a
method step of modification subsequent to the method step of FIG.
4.
[0022] FIG. 6 is the exemplary tank of FIG. 5 illustrated at a
method step of modification subsequent to the method step of FIG.
5.
[0023] FIG. 7 is the exemplary tank of FIG. 6 illustrated at a
method step of modification subsequent to the method step of FIG.
6.
[0024] FIG. 8 is the exemplary tank of FIG. 7 illustrated at a
method step of modification subsequent to the method step of FIG.
7.
[0025] FIG. 9 is the exemplary tank of FIG. 8 illustrated at a
method step of modification subsequent to the method step of FIG.
8, and represents the system for regulating temperatures of
contents within the exemplary tank according to the first
embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 10 is a vertical perspective view of a system for
regulating temperatures of contents within an exemplary tank
according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 11 is a partial side-sectional view of the system of
FIG. 10 taken along sectional lines 11-11 of FIG. 10.
[0028] FIG. 12 is a vertical perspective view of a system for
regulating temperatures of contents within an exemplary tank
according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 13 is a partial side-sectional view of the system of
FIG. 12 taken along sectional lines 13-13 of FIG. 12.
[0030] FIG. 13A is a fragmentary view of the FIG. 13 partial
side-sectional view.
[0031] FIG. 14 is a vertical perspective view of an exemplary tank
illustrated at one method step for modification and incorporation
into a system for regulating temperatures of contents within the
exemplary tank according to a fourth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0032] FIG. 15 is a vertical perspective view of an exemplary tank
illustrated at one method step for modification and incorporation
into a system for regulating temperatures of contents within the
exemplary tank according to a fifth embodiment of the present
invention.
[0033] FIG. 16 is a vertical perspective view of an exemplary tank
illustrated at one method step for modification and incorporation
into a system for regulating temperatures of contents within the
exemplary tank according to a six embodiment of the present
invention.
[0034] FIG. 17 is partial sectional view of an exemplary system for
regulating temperatures of contents within a tank, the tank being
illustrated with an exemplary baffle or vane structure for defining
exemplary fluid channels according to a first embodiment of the
present invention.
[0035] FIG. 18 is partial sectional view of an exemplary system for
regulating temperatures of contents within a tank, the tank being
illustrated with an exemplary baffle or vane structure for defining
exemplary fluid channels according to a second embodiment of the
present invention.
[0036] FIG. 19 is partial sectional view of an exemplary system for
regulating temperatures of contents within a tank, the tank being
illustrated with an exemplary baffle or vane structure for defining
exemplary fluid channels according to a third embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0037] This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance
of the constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent Laws "to promote
the progress of science and useful arts" (Article 1, Section
8).
[0038] The inventor of this application has performed numerous
experiments and studies of juice masses in tanks during processing
of same using the conventional designs of thermal regulating
systems 2 illustrated in FIG. 1. Contrary to the general
understanding of the wine industry, the inventor has determined
that conventional designs of thermal regulating systems 2 do not
create a uniform temperature distribution throughout an entirety of
the juice mass. To discuss and illustrate the temperature data
discovered by the inventor, a conventional thermal regulating
system 2 with the thermal jacket 3 of FIG. 1 is again illustrated
in FIG. 2, with the understanding that the temperature distribution
represented is not understood or conventionally known.
[0039] It should be understood that conventional thermal regulating
systems have a single temperature monitoring device 8 provided to
extend through the wall of tank 4, in a stationary configuration,
and into the juice mass to measure and provide temperature data of
the juice mass. The conventional location of the temperature
monitoring device 8 is positioned immediately below the thermal
jacket 3. Taking temperature data from a single location of the
contents within tank 4 prevents obtaining accurate and beneficial
temperature data of the contents within tank 4. Moreover, taking
temperature data from below the thermal jacket 3 where the thermal
jacket 3 has the greatest influence on the temperature of the
contents additionally prevents obtaining accurate and beneficial
temperature data along an entirety of the column of the contents
within tank 4.
[0040] For example, FIG. 2 illustrates general conditions that can
develop using the conventional thermal regulating system 2 wherein
three distinct temperature strata regions or zones are shown. The
different temperature strata regions develop along a vertical axis
of the column of the juice mass. The general consensus of the wine
industry is that the juice mass is processing at uniform
temperatures throughout the mass. Without a proper understanding or
knowledge of what is occurring in the juice mass during processing,
different regions or portions of the mass are processing at
different temperatures. For example, if during fermentation at
least one of the temperature strata regions is processing at an
unfavorable temperature, the fermentation process changes
drastically for the at least one temperature strata region. The
different fermentation process detrimentally changes the chemical
composition of the wine product for the at least one temperature
strata region which drastically influences the quality of the
entire final wine product.
[0041] To understand the development of these temperature strata
regions, consider the thermal jacket 3 that covers approximately a
third (1/3) of the surface area of the outer peripheral surface 6
of tank 4. As stated previously, with thermal jacket 3 covering
only a portion of tank 4, only a portion of the juice mass is
directly affected and influenced with the transfer of thermal
energy via thermal jacket 3. For further discussion, consider an
exemplary thermodynamic relationship wherein thermal energy as heat
is transferred from the juice to the glycol, that is, the glycol is
at a temperature below the temperature of the juice mass.
Accordingly, in this exemplary thermodynamic relationship, the
glycol is cooled before entering thermal jacket 3 with the goal of
cooling the juice mass. Because only a portion of the juice mass is
in the direct thermal energy transfer relationship with the glycol
(and thermal jacket 3), the temperature strata regions develop
within the juice mass. The temperature strata regions develop at
different elevational levels along the vertical axis of the column
of the juice mass. For example, an exemplary juice mass has an
uppermost surface 63. The respective temperature strata regions are
referenced as temperature stratum region 7 (starting elevationally
from bottom level of tank 4); temperature stratum region 9 and
temperature stratum region 53.
[0042] Furthermore, temperature strata boundaries develop between
the respective temperature strata regions which impede and/or
prevent movement of convection currents throughout an entirety of
the juice mass. This movement of convection currents is necessary
to develop a uniform temperature throughout an entirety of the
juice mass. For example, temperature stratum boundary 5 develops
between temperature strata regions 7 and 9 and temperature stratum
boundary 51 develops between temperature strata regions 9 and 53.
The temperature stratum region 9 is a cool juice mass that develops
laterally adjacent and below thermal jacket 3 because this is the
portion of the juice mass that is directly influenced by the
cooling effect of thermal jacket 3. Temperature strata regions 7
and 53 are warm juice masses. Accordingly, temperature stratum
region 9 of cool juice is between temperature strata regions 7 and
53 of warm juice. The development of these temperature strata
boundaries and regions clearly indicates a nonuniform temperature
exists throughout the juice mass.
[0043] Moreover, convection currents are not moving across the
temperature strata boundaries to produce a uniform temperature
throughout an entirety of the juice mass. To produce a uniform
temperature, a convention current needs to move a portion of the
warm juice from region 7 across boundary 5 into a portion of the
cool juice of region 9, and vice versa, to moderate the respective
temperatures of the respective regions 7 and 9. Similarly, a
convention current needs to move a portion of the warm juice from
region 53 across boundary 51 into a portion of the cool juice of
region 9, and vice versa, to moderate the respective temperatures
of respective regions 9 and 53. Without these convection currents
flowing across respective boundaries, a uniform temperature
throughout the juice mass can not develop.
[0044] Additionally, each temperature stratum region has its own
system of current flows that impede and prevent the development of
the these convection currents. For example, at least a pair of
current flows develop within each temperature stratum region
wherein the direction of the current flows complement each other to
strengthen the temperature strata boundaries. For example, current
flows 55 and 57 are formed in stratum region 7; current flows 59
and 61 are formed in stratum region 9; and current flows 65 and 67
are formed in stratum region 53. The direction of the pair of
current flows 55 and 57 within stratum region 7 complements the
direction of the pair of current flows 59 and 61 within stratum
region 9 to strengthen stratum boundary 5. Similarly, the direction
of the pair of current flows 65 and 67 within stratum region 53
complements the direction of the pair of current flows 59 and 61
within stratum region 9 to strengthen stratum boundary 51.
Accordingly, the strata boundaries are strengthen effectively
preventing the flow of convection currents across the boundaries to
respective regions of juice. As stated previously, without these
convection currents moving across the respective boundaries, a
uniform temperature throughout the juice mass can not develop.
[0045] Moreover, if additional temperature strata regions are
desired (more than three, or fewer than the illustrated three)
within the juice mass, the strengthened strata boundaries prevent
altering or modifying the temperature strata regions that routinely
develop in conventional thermal regulating systems 2. Accordingly,
conventional designs of thermal regulating systems 2 are inadequate
to form uniform temperatures throughout the juice mass.
Additionally, conventional designs of thermal regulating systems 2
are inadequate to selectively establish or form a plurality of
temperature strata regions at selective elevational levels
throughout the juice mass. Furthermore, with the strengthened
strata boundaries, conventional designs are ineffective at
modifying and adjusting the illustrated temperature strata
regions.
[0046] An improved temperature or thermal regulating system for
tanks has been developed by the named inventor of the present
application, the disclosure of which is provided in a
previously-filed patent application Ser. No. 10/857,530, filed on
May 29, 2004, entitled: "SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR
REGULATING TEMPERATURES OF TANKS, CONTAINERS AND CONTENTS THEREIN",
the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0047] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary improved thermal regulating
system 10 for regulating, adjusting and controlling the temperature
of the contents in a container, vessel or tank 12. Exemplary tanks
12 include other containers such as vats, barrels, kegs which can
be used, for example, in the food and beverage industries to store,
transport and/or process the contents therein. An exemplary tank 12
can be formed from any material such as thermally conductive
material, thermally insulative material, or any combination of
these materials. Such exemplary materials include polymers,
plastics, fiberglass, metals, stainless steel, polyethylene, and
any combination of these materials. Moreover, an exemplary tank 12
may include an exemplary number of layers of these various
materials to form various combinations of surface structures for
tank 12. Additionally, exemplary tanks 12 can have any exemplary
contents provided therein such as solids, fluids and gases, and
including juice and/or wine. Exemplary processing includes the wine
being cooled, heated and/or maintained at a specific temperature or
within a specific temperature range.
[0048] The exemplary tank 12 has a wall structure that forms a
cavity or interior volume having an interior periphery (not shown)
to receive contents therein. An outer circumferential portion or
outer peripheral surface 14 of the wall structure can include an
entirety of the surface area of the wall structure of tank 12 or
less than an entirety, for example, only the vertically extending
sidewalls as shown in this exemplary embodiment. Tank 12 includes a
bottom wall which is not shown but indicated generally by numeral
31 with the outer peripheral surface 14 extending upward from the
bottom wall 31. The outer peripheral surface 14 has an exemplary
cylindrical shape and continues to extend upward to terminate at a
top wall which is not shown but indicated generally by numeral 33.
A covered opening 16 in top wall 33 provides access to the cavity
or interior volume of tank 12 allowing handling of the contents
provided therein and allowing individuals to service and/or clean
the inside of tank 12. While the illustrated tank 12 has a
cylindrical shape with the circumference of outer peripheral
surface 14 forming a circular horizontal cross section, it should
be understood that tank 12 could have any shape configuration. For
example, tank 12 can have a horizontal cross section defining a
square, rectangular, hexagon or oval.
[0049] Tank 12 can located at a customer's place of business
wherein the existing tank 12 would be incorporated into system 10.
Alternatively, tank 12 can be purchased or provided for system 10
by a tank manufacturer or producer and then modified for
incorporation into system 10. Tank 12 can be formed with the cavity
having any dimension and/or size configuration for the inner
periphery or interior volume for receiving the contents therein.
For example, tank 12 can be capable of receiving and holding a
volume of wine ranging from about 1 gallon to about 200,000
gallons.
[0050] Still referring to FIG. 3, a first circumferential ring 19
is positioned and secured to tank 12 proximate bottom wall 31 and
encircles the outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12. A second
circumferential ring is positioned and secured to tank 12 proximate
top wall 33 and encircles the outer peripheral surface 14 of tank
12. Exemplary materials for rings 19 and 20 include thermally
insulative and/or thermally conductive materials such as metals,
metal alloys, foam, flexible foam, molded polymer composite, formed
metal, low density foam, high density foam, styrofoam, high density
styrofoam and high density polyethylene foam, and any combinations
of these materials.
[0051] Tank 12 further includes vanes or baffles which are
illustrated as a plurality of respective vanes or baffles 82, 84
and 86 secured to the outer peripheral surface 14. The exemplary
configuration of baffles 82, 84 and 86 are shown to extend in a
generally helical configuration on outer peripheral surface 14
surrounding tank 12. Even though referenced as a plurality of
baffles 82, 84 and 86, it is to be understood that baffles 82, 84
and 86 can represent a single and continuously extending structure
as generally shown here. Exemplary materials for baffles 82, 84 and
86 include thermally insulative and/or thermally conductive
material such as foam, flexible foam, molded polymer composite,
formed metal, metal alloys, low density foam, high density foam,
styrofoam, high density styrofoam and high density polyethylene
foam, green poly plank, foam rubber, rubber and any combinations of
these materials.
[0052] Individual 106 is shown positioning a sheet or layer of
flexible material 15 over tank 12. The exemplary layer or sheet of
flexible material 15 is provided over and in contact with
respective first and second circumferential rings 19 and 20. In
another embodiment, sheet 15 is additionally provided over and in
contact with baffles 82, 84 and 86 wherein the sheet 15 spaced over
at least a portion of the surface area of the outer peripheral
surface 14 of tank 12. The spacing between sheet 15, outer
peripheral surface 14 and respective baffles 82, 84 and 86 form a
cavity 60 (alternatively termed gap and void) with a portion of
cavity 60 more clearly shown in FIG. 3A. Sheet 15 is provided to
surround and enclose at least a circumferential portion of tank 12,
and therefore, is preferably a material that can be formed, molded
or curved to surround a structure.
[0053] An exemplary layer or sheet 15 includes thermally conductive
material and/or thermally insulative material such as styrofoam,
flexible foam, molded polymer composite, formed metal, plastics,
steel, metals, metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, rubber, composites
and wood, and any combinations of these materials. Sheet 15 in this
exemplary embodiment is a continuous sheet that surrounds or
encloses substantially an entirety of the surface area of outer
peripheral surface 14 wherein cavity 60 is substantially enclosed
from the environment. More thoroughly discussed below, cavity 60
will be divided to form a fluid conduit(s) or fluid channel(s) 60
(or fluid passageway(s)) over tank 12 configured to receive a fluid
medium or thermal regulating fluid. It should be understood that
sheet 15 can be constructed by a mold, or formed from a molded
material, for example, a malleable substance, and therefore,
preformed to be configured for positioning over tank 12.
[0054] Another exemplary embodiment of sheet 15 includes sheet 15
comprising a plurality of discrete sections configured to be
provided together to form a single continuous structure surrounding
tank 12. Moreover, it is understood that in one embodiment, sheet
15 does not substantially seal the cavity 60. That is, sheet 15
does not hermetically seal cavity 60 wherein cavity 60 is at least
slightly open to the ambient environment or ambient air, and
therefore, cavity 60 in one embodiment is under atmospheric
pressure. In another embodiment, sheet 15 will substantially seal
cavity 60 to be air tight, or hermetically sealed from ambient
conditions of the environment, or any degree of sealment between
completely open and hermetically sealed. Accordingly, cavity 60 can
be under a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure.
[0055] Still referring to FIGS. 3 and 3A, thermal regulating system
10 further includes a fluid tube or duct 24 extending between
respective portions of sheet 15. Tube 24 functions as a conduit for
movement of a fluid medium between respective openings 26 and 28
formed in sheet 15 and into cavity 60. Tube 24 includes a forced
fluid device 34 (represented as a block), for example a heat
exchanger 34, to force and direct the fluid medium, in one
embodiment, along fluid flow directions 96, 98, 100, and 102, and
more thoroughly discussed below. Other exemplary forced fluid
devices 34 include a blower, fan, chiller, heater, any
refrigeration system and an air conditioning unit. Exemplary fluid
mediums include liquids and/or gases, and any combination of the
two, wherein an exemplary liquid includes glycol and an exemplary
gas includes air. In one embodiment, an exemplary source of air is
ambient air. The fluid medium is selectively provided to be in a
cooled or heated state relative the temperature of the contents
within the tank 12.
[0056] The fluid medium will circulate through cavity or void 60
against outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12. Heat exchanger 34
is provided in fluid communication with cavity 60 via fluid tube 24
and provides the fluid medium in the selected cooled or warmed
(heated) state into cavity 60 against the outer peripheral surface
14 of tank 12. Accordingly, one of openings 26 and 28 functions as
an inlet while the other of openings 26 and 28 functions as an
outlet depending on which direction the fluid medium is being
driven through tube 24. One exemplary direction 62 is represented.
The fluid medium establishes the thermal or thermodynamic
relationship between the fluid medium and the contents within tank
12. That is, the thermodynamic relationship established between the
fluid medium and contents occurs wherein thermal energy is
transferred between the fluid medium and contents across the wall
structure of tank 12 and through outer peripheral surface 14 (and
the opposite interior surface not shown) of tank 12.
[0057] Referring again to sheet 15, such includes an inner surface
21 opposite an outer surface 22. The inner surface 21 faces outer
peripheral surface 14 after sheet 15 is positioned over tank 12.
The wrapping step of sheet 15 in direction 27 is only exemplary and
can be in the opposite direction. When wrapping step is finished,
edge 32 of sheet 15 is positioned adjacent edge 30 of sheet 15 to
enclose outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12 thereby forming
cavity 60. Cavity 60 is established between inner surface 21 of
sheet 15 and outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12. Cavity 60 is
further established between respective first and second
circumferential rings 19 and 20. The volume of cavity 60 between
respective rings 19 and 20 is further divided by baffles 82, 84 and
86. Exemplary spacing dimensions between inner surface 21 of sheet
15 and outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12 will range from about
0.001 inch to about 5 feet, with another exemplary range being from
about 1 inch to about 12 inches, with an exemplary spacing being
about 4 inches.
[0058] Sheet 15 may be secured over tank 12 by attaching sheet 15
at least to respective first and second circumferential rings 19
and 20. In another embodiment, sheet 15 is only (or additionally
with respect to rings) attached to any combination of uppermost
portions of baffles 82, 84 and 86. Accordingly, in exemplary
embodiments, at least portions of baffles 82, 84 and 86 extend to
contact outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12 and the inner
surface 21 of sheet 15. The attachment of sheet 15 can be
accomplished by glue, adhesive, weld studs, screws, or some other
form of fastener or bonding technique. The exemplary embodiment of
FIG. 3 has baffles 82, 84 and 86 extending as a single continuous
length of material circuitously around tank 12. Other possible
embodiments include having baffles formed or patterned in discrete
segments having any combination of different lengths. Moreover,
baffles 82, 84 and 86 could include numerous other patterns or
configurations other than the helical configuration shown.
[0059] In combination, respective baffles (82 84 86) and first and
second circumferential rings 19 and 20 divide cavity 60 into
respective fluid channels or fluid passageways 88, 90, 92 and 94.
Fluid channels 88, 90, 92 and 94 receive and direct the flow of the
fluid medium around tank 12. That is, after the fluid medium is
provided from the tube 24 via opening 26 (or 28) formed in sheet
15, fluid flow of fluid medium is directed in directions 96, 98,
100, and 102 over and against the outer peripheral surface 14 of
tank 12. It should be understood that the fluid medium may flow in
directions opposite to directions 96, 98, 100, and 102. An
exemplary fluid medium is warmed in order to heat the contents of
tank 12 wherein thermal energy as heat of the fluid medium is
transferred through the wall structure and outer peripheral surface
14 into the contents of tank 12. The contents of tank 12 which is
located substantially lateral adjacent the outer peripheral surface
14 will directly be affected by the thermal energy. If the fluid
medium is cooled in order to cool the contents of tank 12, then
thermal energy as heat of the fluid medium is transferred through
the wall structure and outer peripheral surface 14 from the
contents into the cooled fluid medium.
[0060] In the exemplary embodiment shown, fluid channels 88, 90, 92
and 94 extend around tank 12 forming a substantially continuous
path along substantially an entirety of a height along the vertical
axis of tank 12. Accordingly, the thermal or thermodynamic
relationship is established, and correspondingly the thermal energy
is transferred, through substantially an entirety of the surface
area of a sidewall of the wall structure of tank 12. Moreover,
substantially an entirety of a column of the contents along the
vertical axis within tank 12 is in a direct thermodynamic
relationship with the fluid medium. That is, thermal energy is
transferred directly between the entirety of the column of the
contents along the vertical axis and the fluid medium.
[0061] Still referring to FIG. 3, thermal regulating system 10 is
selectively operated to heat or cool tank 12 and the contents
therein. An exemplary tank 12 is cylindrical wherein the outer
peripheral surface 14 is a cylindrical sidewall of tank 12 which
defines substantially an entirety of the height along a vertical
axis of tank 12. In one exemplary embodiment, the heat exchanger 34
comprises an air conditioning unit, the contents comprises wine and
the fluid medium comprises air wherein the wine is to be cooled by
the air. Ambient air supplied to the air conditioning unit 34
wherein the air conditioning unit 34 dehumidifies the air. An
exemplary air conditioning unit is manufactured by Heat Controller,
Inc., with an exemplary brand being Comfort-Aire.RTM. having an
exemplary capacity of 10,000 Btu's. Dehumidified air is beneficial
for efficiency of operation of thermal regulating system 10, and
therefore, ambient air is provided at atmospheric pressure and
cooled with the moisture content of the air preferably being
removed. Accordingly, thermal regulating system 10 of this
invention operates under atmospheric pressure and conditions which
is economical and efficient compared with conventional thermal
regulating systems, particularly the conventional system that use
liquids such as glycol. Due to friction, glycol creates thermal
energy as heat during flow through tube or conduit structures, and
the heat is additional thermal energy that has to be moderated and
dealt with which effectively diminishes the efficiency of
conventional thermal regulating systems.
[0062] The air conditioning unit 34 forces or drives the cooled air
to begin an air flow through tube 24, through inlet 26 and into
cavity 60. In one embodiment, steering vanes (shown but not
referenced with a number) are provided across inlet 26 to direct
the cool, dehumidified air in a generally tangential relation
within cavity 60 over and along the outer peripheral surface 14 of
tank 12. The tangential flow of the air relative the outer
peripheral surface 14 facilitates continued air flow around tank 12
along directions 96, 98, 100 and 102 within fluid channels 88, 90,
92 and 94. The cooled air contacts a first portion of the outer
periphery surface 14 of tank 12 proximate inlet 26 to begin the
thermal energy transfer across the first portion of the outer
peripheral surface 14 between the cooled air and wine mass of tank
12. The wall structure, including outer peripheral surface 14, will
have thermal energy transfer characteristics depending at least the
following factors: composition, thickness, configuration and type
of materials used for the wall structure of tank 12. An exemplary
thermal energy transfer characteristic includes a rate of thermal
energy that can be transferred across a unit volume of the wall
structure (including outer peripheral surface 14) per unit
time.
[0063] As the cooled air continues traveling through fluid channels
88, 90, 92 and 94, the cooled air contacts additional different
portions of the outer peripheral surface 14. Each contact
establishes a thermal energy transfer across the outer peripheral
surface 14 of the wall structure, for example, a second portion
adjacent the first portion. Accordingly, the cooling of the wine
mass continues. The air reaches the end of its travel around tank
12 at the end of the path through fluid channels 88, 90, 92 and 94
proximate outlet 28. The air continues moving and enters outlet 28
of tube 24 for further processing that includes the air being
recycled through the air conditioning unit 34 to be re-cooled (or
heated if this alternative is selected) and to begin anew the
circulation of the re-cooled air through fluid channels 88, 90, 92
and 94. Accordingly, the thermodynamic relationship and the thermal
energy transfer across outer periphery surface 14 of tank 12 begins
anew.
[0064] As the cooled air continues through fluid channels 88, 90,
92 and 94 and continues contacting additional surface area of outer
peripheral surface 14, the cooled air is continually being warmed
and increasing in temperature. As the cooled air increases in
temperature, the temperature continues to approach the temperature
of the wine mass. That is, the temperature of the cooled air is
continually approaching an equilibrium state with the temperature
of the wine mass. As the cooled air approaches the equilibrium
state, the rate of thermal energy transfer across the wall
structure and outer peripheral surface 14 is continually
decreasing. That is, as the cooled air travels around tank 12, it
is continually receiving thermal energy from the wine mass and
continually being warmed. Since the cooled air is continually being
warmed, the rate of thermal energy transfer is continually
decreasing (and of course, the quantity of heat transfer is
continually decreasing since this parameter is included in a rate
equation) as the cooled air travels along the outer peripheral
surface 14. Once the equilibrium state is reached, thermal energy
transfer across the outer periphery surface 14 will substantially
cease.
[0065] In fact, the equilibrium state can be reached before the
cooled air completes one cycle or trip through fluid channels 88,
90, 92 and 94 around tank 12. Once thermal energy or heat transfer
ceases, the wine mass is no longer being cooled. Accordingly, in
this embodiment of the thermal regulating system 10 shown in FIGS.
3 and 3A, the temperature of the fluid medium can reach an
equilibrium state with the temperature of the contents of the tank
12 before the fluid medium finishes one complete circuit around
tank 12. In this situation, there is a lack of uniform heat
transfer across the outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12 during a
complete cycle or trip of the fluid medium. In this situation, the
effectiveness and efficiency of this thermal regulating system 10
is greatly diminished. Additionally, the lack of uniform heat
transfer across the outer peripheral surface 14 of tank 12 during a
complete cycle or trip of the fluid medium impedes and/or prevents
the development of effective convection currents needed to control,
adjust and modify temperatures of the contents within tank 12.
Consequently, the effectiveness and efficiency of this thermal
regulating system 10 needs to be improved.
[0066] Moreover, this embodiment of the thermal regulating system
10 has additional issues that need to be addressed. For example,
the greatest rate and quantity of thermal energy transfer occurs at
the beginning of the fluid flow at the above-described first
portion of the outer periphery surface 14 proximate inlet 26. The
cooled air has not been warmed (maybe negligibly in tube 24) and
has not increased in temperature at the beginning of fluid flow
through fluid channels 88, 90, 92 and 94. Consequently, once
thermal energy transfer begins, the greatest rate and quantity of
thermal energy transfer occurs at this first portion of the outer
periphery surface 14 proximate inlet 26. The rate and quantity of
heat transfer can be so intense at this first portion of the outer
periphery surface 14 that ice develops on the portion of the
interior surface (not shown) opposite the first portion of outer
peripheral surface 14. Ice is an insulator which means that thermal
energy is insulated from being transferred across this first
portion of outer peripheral surface 14. Heat transfer is impeded
and/or terminates at the first portion of outer peripheral surface
14.
[0067] Furthermore, once ice forms opposite the first portion of
outer peripheral surface 14 and heat transfer ceases, the cooled
air moving over the first portion of outer peripheral surface 14
receives no thermal energy. Accordingly, the cool air reaches and
contacts the second portion of the outer peripheral surface 14
adjacent the first portion still having its greatest cooling effect
or capacity. This level of cooling capacity originally resulted in
the ice being formed at the first portion, and therefore, ice
begins to form opposite the second portion of outer peripheral
surface 14. Consequently, ice can be formed on the interior surface
(not shown) of wall structure along opposite serially adjacent
portions of outer periphery surface 14. Since ice formation creates
an insulating layer opposite the entirety of outer periphery
surface 14 where thermal energy transfer needs to occur, the
cooling process of the wine mass terminates effectively negating
the purpose of the thermal regulating system 10. The effectiveness
and efficiency of this thermal regulating system 10 needs to be
improved.
[0068] A final issue with this thermal regulating system 10 which
concerns the development of the ice. When ice is produced, the ice
needs to be melted for the thermal regulating system 10 to begin
functioning efficiency. However, the forming of ice is a heat
source process wherein converting a fluid from the gas or liquid
state to a solid state releases thermal energy as heat. If the
desire is to cool the wine mass of tank 12, this heat energy is
additional thermal energy that has to be absorbed by the cooled air
produced by the thermal regulating system 10. Accordingly, the
cooled air is receiving thermal energy as heat during the melting
of the ice, but the cooled air is not cooling the wine mass. The
cooled air is losing its capacity to cool the wine, and therefore,
the thermal regulating system 10 becomes inefficient and
ineffective having to continually provide energy to melt the ice
instead of cooling the wine mass. Consequently, thermal regulating
system 10 needs to be improved to selectively distribute the
thermal energy transfer across different portions of the outer
periphery surface 14 of the wall structure. That is, the thermal
energy transfer characteristics of different portions of the wall
structure should be modified to at least: prevent the fluid medium
from reaching a temperature equilibrium state with the temperature
of the contents before finishing a complete cycle or fluid flow
trip through fluid channels 88, 90, 92 and 94 around tank 12; and
prevent the formation of ice on the interior surface of the wall
structure of tank 12.
[0069] FIGS. 4 and 4A illustrate an exemplary vessel, container or
tank 142 that will be modified for incorporation into a thermal
regulating system 140 according to one embodiment of the present
invention. This embodiment of thermal regulating system 140 and all
subsequently disclosed inventive embodiments solve the issues
discussed above. The inventive embodiment of thermal regulating
system 140 and all subsequently disclosed inventive embodiments may
include all the structural components, configurations, materials
and dimensions disclosed above with respect to thermal regulating
system 10. That is, all the discussions above with respect to tank
12 of FIG. 3 are applicable to subsequently described tanks for
subsequently disclosed thermal regulating systems.
[0070] Tank 142 comprises a wall structure 141 (FIG. 4A) having an
exterior surface or outer peripheral surface 144 opposite an inner
surface or interior surface 197. In one embodiment, outer
peripheral surface 144 forms at least a portion of an entirety of
the outer or exterior surface area of tank 142. In another
embodiment, outer peripheral surface 144 can include an entirety of
exterior surface area which would include top and bottom portion
not shown. In the shown embodiment, outer peripheral surface 144
forms substantially an entirety of a sidewall surface area of tank
142, and will be referred to as sidewall surface 144. All the
discussions above with respect to outer periphery surface 14 of
FIG. 3 are applicable to sidewall surface 144. Inner surface or
interior surface 197 forms or defines an inner or interior cavity
which has an inner or interior volume to receive contents provided
therein, for example, solid materials and/or fluids, such as juice
and/or wine.
[0071] Tank 142, including wall structure 141, is formed from any
exemplary material characterized as thermally insulative material
and/or thermally conductive material, and any material
characterized as between thermally conductive and thermally
insulative such as semiconductive material. Exemplary materials for
tank 142 include polymers, glass, crystal structures, ceramics,
plastics, fiberglass, metals, metal alloys, polyethylene, wood,
stainless steel and include any combination of the various
materials. An exemplary crystal structure includes quartz. An
exemplary stainless steel includes a thickness of 16 gauge and
having a composition of, for example, Type 304. Additionally,
exemplary tank 142 can be formed from any number of layers of the
various materials and having any thickness for the respective
layers. An exemplary thickness of the walls of tank 142 depends on
the selected material(s) and the size of the interior volume of
tank 142. As the interior volume of tank 142 increases (and
correspondingly an increase in the volume of contents that can be
held in the tank), the thickness of the wall configuration
routinely needs to be increased in order to hold the volume of
contents. What ever material(s), number of layers and thickness of
the layers used for tank 142, tank 142 will have respective values
for thermal energy transfer characteristics, for example,
respective values for rate and/or quantity of thermal energy that
will transfer (thermal energy transfer) across a unit volume of the
wall structure 141 for a given unit of time. Thermal energy
transfer occurs by any method known, for example, by thermal
conduction, thermal convection and thermal radiation or thermal
electromagnetic radiation.
[0072] In this exemplary tank 142, wall structure 141 includes
sidewall surface 144 which includes an entirety of a side surface
area of tank 142. Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment,
sidewall surface 144 excludes bottom and top walls or surfaces of
tank 142. An exemplary sidewall surface 144 is cylindrically shaped
with a circular horizontal cross section. Sidewall surface 144
includes seams 146 wherein sections of material are secured
together to form sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. In other
embodiments, seams would not exist if sidewall surface 144 is
formed as a single piece, for example, from materials such as
polymers and plastic. Moreover, other exemplary horizontal
cross-sectional shapes for sidewall surface 144 are possible, and
include rectangular, hexagonal, square and oval to name only a few
configurations. An exemplary height along a vertical axis for tank
142 is approximately twelve feet (shown relative individual 152)
and has an exemplary interior volume capacity of about 1,000 to
about 2,700 gallons. However, other exemplary sizes or capacities
for tank 142 can range from less than about one gallon to about
200,000 gallons with vertical heights ranging from less than about
one foot to about 50 feet. Still other capacities for tank 142 can
range below one gallon, for example, about 10 milliliters which is
a tank that can be used in forming and/or processing ruby crystal
growth. Exemplary tank 142 includes a first access opening or
manway 150 (or access hatch) for accessing the interior volume of
the cavity defined by interior surface 197 and is formed through an
uppermost surface or top wall (not shown) of tank 142. A second
access opening 116 is provided in a lower portion of sidewall
surface 144 and through wall structure 141 of tank 142 to further
facilitate accessing the interior volume of tank 142.
[0073] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary step of a method for
incorporating tank 142 into thermal regulating system 140 according
to one embodiment of the present invention. For illustration
purposes, it is assumed that individual 152 makes the modifications
to tank 142 discussed subsequently. First circumferential ring 112
is secured to, and to surround, an upper circumferential portion of
sidewall surface 144. First circumferential ring 112 extends
laterally outwardly from sidewall surface 144. A second
circumferential ring 157 is secured to, and to surround, a lower
circumferential portion of sidewall surface 144. Second
circumferential ring 157 extends laterally outwardly from sidewall
surface 144. Exemplary first and second circumferential rings 112
and 157 are formed from the same material, or different respective
materials. All the discussions above with respect to first and
second circumferential rings 19 and 20 of FIG. 3 are applicable to
first and second circumferential rings 112 and 157.
[0074] Exemplary materials for first and second circumferential
rings 112 and 157 comprise thermally insulative material and/or
thermally conductive material such as polymers, plastics,
fiberglass, metals, metal alloys, stainless steel, polyethylene,
wood, foam, flexible foam, molded polymer composite, formed metal,
low density foam, high density foam, styrofoam, high density
styrofoam and high density polyethylene foam and including any
combinations of these materials. First and second circumferential
rings 112 and 157 are secured to sidewall surface 144 of tank 142
by an adhesive, for example, hot melt glue. Alternatively, a
combination of hot melt glue is used with poly foam tape, for
example, a double stick foam tape manufactured by 3M.
[0075] Still referring to FIG. 5, a base portion 156 is provided
below second circumferential ring 157, and preferably below an
entirety of tank 142. Base portion 156 can be formed from all the
above stated exemplary materials for first and second
circumferential rings 112 and 157. Base portion 156 preferably
comprises insulative material configured to insulate tank 142 from
a supporting surface on which tank 142 rests. Alternatively, base
portion 156 can be the ground or floor of an enclosure such as a
warehouse. A vane or baffle structure 158 (can be referred to as
vanes, baffles, vane structure and/or baffle structure) is secured
over, and in this embodiment, directly onto sidewall surface 144 of
tank 142. All the discussions above with respect to baffles 82, 84
and 86 of FIG. 3 are applicable to vane structure 158. A layer or
coating of material 110 is secured over, and in this embodiment,
directly onto at least a portion of sidewall surface 144 between
portions of vane structure 158 (layer 110 more thoroughly discussed
subsequently). The vanes 158 can be provided before or after the
providing of layer or coating 110. Alternatively, the respective
structures (vanes 158 and layer 110) can be provided in staggered
steps, wherein a portion of vane 158 is provided and then a portion
of coating 110 is provided, or visa versa, and any combination of
the staggered steps is applicable.
[0076] Exemplary materials for vanes 158 can include thermally
conductive material and/or thermally insulative material such as
rubber, polymers, plastics, fiberglass, metals, stainless steel,
polyethylene, wood, foam, flexible foam, molded polymer composite,
formed metal, low density polyethylene foam, high density foam,
styrofoam, high density styrofoam and high density polyethylene
foam, metal alloys and including any combinations of these
materials. The illustrated vane structure 158 from this perspective
of tank 142 appear as discrete sections oriented in a parallel and
helical configuration around tank 142. However, it should be
understood that to form the helical design shown, there are
actually two continuous strips of material that surround tank 142.
In this illustrated example, one continuous strip of vane structure
158 is spaced from the other, and both strips extend generally
parallel relative to one another in the helical configuration.
[0077] However, numerous other exemplary designs for vane structure
158 are thoroughly described and discussed in the disclosure of the
previously-filed patent application Ser. No. 10/857,530, previously
stated to be incorporated herein by reference. For example, other
exemplary designs for vane structure 158 include patterns of
discrete and discontinuous lengths or stipes of material having the
same, or various different, length dimensions over sidewall surface
144. Additionally, each discontinuous and discrete portion or
strips of vane structure 158 can comprise the same material, or
different materials for respective different discrete portions.
Exemplary vane structure 158 extends laterally from sidewall
surface 144, generally perpendicularly from sidewall surface 144
with an outermost edge 159 spaced and generally parallel with
sidewall surface 144. However, vane structure 158 can extend at an
angle relative sidewall surface 144 with an exemplary range of
angles being between about 0 degrees to about 180 degrees (with the
understanding that 0 degrees and 180 degrees corresponds to
outermost edge 159 being generally perpendicular to sidewall
surface 144).
[0078] Vane structure 158 extends to surround at least a portion of
the circumference of tank 142 with an exemplary configuration
having a helical shape. Other configurations other than the helical
shape are possible, for example, vane 158 can extend generally
vertically along a vertical axis along the height direction of tank
142. Other configurations of vane 158 include vanes extending
generally horizontal, or at any angle relative a horizontal axis,
wherein opposite ends meet to form a circle around tank 142. From
this side view, the helical configuration of vane structure 158 has
various portions of vane 158 illustrated, with respective portions
of vane structure 158 spaced from another portion of vane structure
158. The spacing between respective portions of vane structure 158
form respective channel regions 165, 180, 182, 184 and 186. The
illustrated channel regions 165, 180, 182, 184 and 186 will be
covered to form a fluid channel or fluid passageway of thermal
regulating system 140 to be described subsequently. It should be
understood that the respective channel regions 165, 180, 182, 184
and 186 can extend to surround tank 142 without interruption along
an entirety of the vertical axis and along an entirety of sidewall
surface 144 (with the further understanding that from this
perspective, a fluid medium is alternatively moving down and up in
respective adjacent channel regions, see FIG. 7).
[0079] An illustrated flow of an exemplary fluid medium is shown in
FIG. 7, and it should be understood that the helical design of the
exemplary channel regions has the fluid medium flowing in an upward
fashion through channel region 180. Moreover, the fluid medium will
flow in a downward fashion through the channel regions located
elevationally below and above channel region 180. It should be
understood that portions of areas over tank 142 can have channel
regions that are blocked from the flow of the fluid medium by, for
example, vertically extending vanes or baffles such as vertical
baffles 188 and 118. Vertical baffle 118 isolates second access
opening 116 from channel regions 182 and 186. Vertical baffle 188
will be more thoroughly discussed subsequently. It should be
understood that various other configurations for vertical baffles
118 and 188 are possible, for example, additional vertical baffles
could be included at any location within the channel regions 165,
180, 182, 184 and 186 on sidewall surface 144. Furthermore, each
vertical baffle can have openings to extend through the structure
from one vertical side to the opposite vertical side (particularly
discussed with respect to FIGS. 17-19).
[0080] Again referring to FIG. 5, exemplary spacing dimensions
along the vertical axis between respective portions of vane
structure 158 that define respective channel regions 165, 180, 182,
184 and 186 will range from below about 1.0 inch to about 72.0
inches (6 feet). Another exemplary range for the spacing dimensions
includes from about 6.0 inches to about 100 inches. For example,
channel regions 165 and 180 measure about 40.0 inches. It should be
understood that as an exemplary fluid channel extends around tank
142 along sidewall surface 144, the spacing dimensions can vary and
are not necessarily uniform. For example, fluid channel 182 has one
illustrated spacing dimension and as the fluid channel extends
toward vertical baffle 118, the spacing dimension of fluid channel
182 increases in dimension. An exemplary vane structure 158 (with
the understanding that this exemplary helical design has two
separate and coordinated extensions of material surrounding tank
142 as discussed above) is secured directly to contact the sidewall
surface 144 of tank 142. Alternatively, vane structure 158 can be
positioned over and directly contact coating 110 without contacting
sidewall surface 144. In the latter configuration, vane structure
158 may be secured to inside portions (portions facing tank 142) of
coating 110, and/or of a housing 199 (discussed below), and/or of
an outer shell 173 (discussed below), or secured to any combination
of inside portions of sidewall surface 144, coating 110, housing
199 and/or outer shell 173.
[0081] Still referring to FIG. 5, an exemplary layer 110 can
comprise various layer structures, for example, a solid layer such
as a solid material layer, and alternatively, a porous layer such
as a screen and/or mesh structure layer and/or a plastic scratcher
pad material. Other exemplary layer structures for layer 110
comprise blown insulative material such as foam or plastic. Other
exemplary layer structures for layer 110 comprise coatings of
material such as paint and include paint with particles provided
therein. Moreover, layer 110 can comprise any combination of these
layer structures. Exemplary material compositions for layer 110
comprise: materials such as foam and all the variations thereof;
flexible foam; molded polymer composite; plastic and all the
variations thereof; fiberglass; metal and all the variations
thereof such as alloys; metal foil; rubber and all the variations
thereof; low density foam; high density foam; styrofoam; high
density styrofoam; high density polyethylene foam; coatings and all
the variations thereof; paint and all the variations thereof; and
any various combinations of the material compositions, including
any various combinations of the various layer structures discussed
previously.
[0082] An exemplary layer 110 is provided over sidewall surface 144
to modify tank 142, particularly to change thermal energy transfer
characteristics of wall structure 141. This exemplary layer 110
comprises a plurality of strips of material between respective
portions of vane structure 158 within channel regions 165, 180,
182, 184 and 186. Exemplary layer 110 surrounds at least a portion
of the circumference of tank 142 over at least a portion of
sidewall surface 144 of tank 142, and alternatively, can cover an
entirety of sidewall surface 144 of wall structure 141. That is,
portions of layer 110 can be provided within an entirety of channel
regions 165, 180, 182, 184 and 186, or only portions of respective
channel regions 165, 180, 182, 184 and 186, and any combination
thereof. Additionally, if exemplary channel regions do not cover an
entirety of the area of sidewall surface 144 of tank 142, then
layer 110 can be provided on portions of the area of sidewall
surface 144 of tank 142 outside channel regions 165, 180, 182, 184
and 186. It should be understood that layer 110 can extend as a
single continuous length of material, or be patterned in discrete,
discontinuous lengths of material. Exemplary discrete and
discontinuous length dimensions of layer 110 can have the same
length dimension relative one another, or various different length
dimensions. Exemplary layer 110 will have the same or various
different width dimensions and the same or various different
thickness dimensions.
[0083] Layer 110 can cover any portion of an exemplary fluid
channel. An exemplary layer 110 can cover any combination of the
infinite number of possible portions of exemplary fluid channels
with alternative portions of exemplary fluid channels not being
covered by layer 110. For example, if a first portion of an
exemplary fluid channel is defined as a portion most proximate an
inlet or intake from a heat exchanger, consider that first portion
as being covered with layer 110. However, other portions of an
exemplary fluid channel may or may not be covered. Other exemplary
portions of sidewall surface 144 being covered by layer 110 include
a center or middle portion adjacent the first portion.
Alternatively, if a last portion of an exemplary fluid channel is
defined as a portion most removed from the inlet or intake from the
heat exchanger, this final portion may or may not be covered by
layer 110. Alternatively, layer 110 can cover the first and last
portions of an exemplary fluid channel wherein the middle portion
of sidewall surface 144 is exposed within the exemplary fluid
channel. It should be understood that any portion of sidewall
surface 144 outside an exemplary fluid channel can be covered with
layer 110, or uncovered, in combination with any portion of the
exemplary fluid channel being covered, or uncovered, with layer
110.
[0084] In one exemplary embodiment, the exemplary layer 110 is
provided in a helical configuration generally in conformance with
the helical configuration of vane structure 158. It should be
understood that layer 110 can extend over sidewall surface 144 at
any angle relative vane structure 158, for example, along a
horizontal axis relative tank 142. Each exemplary layer 110 is
positioned adjacent another strip portion over sidewall surface
144. A plurality of strip portions of layer 110 are positioned
adjacent one another, and preferably the plurality of strip
portions of layer 110 are against one another to form seams 120
between respective edges of strip portions of layer 110. It should
be understood that any number of layers 110 can be provided over
sidewall surface 144 of wall structure 141. For example, a first
portion of an exemplary fluid channel can have about six layers
110, and a middle portion of the exemplary fluid channel can have
about four layers 110, and the last portion of the exemplary fluid
channel can have about two or less layers 110. It should be
understood that any one portion of exemplary fluid channel can have
any number of layers 110 or lack thereof, and that portions of
sidewall surface 144 outside exemplary fluid channels can have any
number of layers 110 or lack thereof. The exemplary layer 110 will
modify tank 142 to effectively change the respective values for the
thermal energy transfer characteristics discussed previously for
wall structure 141 and sidewall surface 144.
[0085] If an exemplary layer 110 comprises a plurality of layers,
layer 110 can comprise any order of the plurality of layers,
including air between any two of the layers. Additionally, an
exemplary one embodiment has layer 110 as a solid layer adjacent a
porous layer in any order and with any respective number of layers.
Another embodiment of layer 110 includes a combination of a porous
layer, a solid layer and a mesh structure in any order and with any
respective number of layers. In another embodiment, layer 110
includes a combination of a porous layer over a first portion of an
exemplary fluid channel, a solid layer over a second portion which
is different from the first portion of the exemplary fluid channel
and a mesh structure over a third portion which is different from
the first and second portions of the exemplary fluid channel.
Alternatively, each of the respective first, second and third
portions may have a plurality of layers with various layer
structures and various material compositions, and combinations of
the respective layer structures and material compositions.
[0086] Additionally, various thicknesses of the same material
compositions can be provided over different portions of an
exemplary fluid channel. Thickness of layer 110 will be understood
to be measured in a perpendicular direction relative the sidewall
surface 144. For example, layer 110 can comprise 1/4 inch
polyethylene foam, for example, manufactured as Dupont sill seal
and provided as a roll. The roll of layer 110 is provided generally
as continuous strips over sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. To
provide the different thickness, different portions of an exemplary
fluid channel can have a different number of layers of the 1/4 inch
polyethylene foam thereby providing different total thicknesses of
layer 110 for the different portions of an exemplary fluid channel.
Alternatively, one portion of an exemplary fluid channel can have a
single layer of 1/4 inch polyethylene foam and another portion of
the exemplary fluid channel can have a single layer of 3/4 inch
polyethylene foam, or any combination of different thicknesses for
each of a plurality of layer 110.
[0087] An exemplary thickness dimension of layer 110 ranges from
about 0.001 inch to about 12 inches. In fact, layer 110 could
completely fill a channel region, for example, by an exemplary
plastic scratcher pad material wherein the porous structure will
allow a fluid medium to pass. Another exemplary thickness dimension
of layer 110 ranges from about 2 inches to about 8 inches, with
another exemplary thickness dimension ranges from about 3 inches to
about 6 inches, and another exemplary thickness dimension ranges
from about 0.125 inches to about 0.5 inches. An exemplary thickness
dimension for layer 110 comprises about 0.25 inches. Another
exemplary thickness dimension for layer 110 comprises about 4
inches. Additionally, an exemplary width dimension of layer 110
measured between respective seams 120 can range from about 0.5 inch
to about 6 feet (72 inches), with another exemplary width dimension
ranging from about 2 inches to about 36 inches, and another
exemplary width dimension ranging from about 4 inches to about 24
inches. An exemplary width dimension for layer 110 comprises about
4 inches. Another exemplary width dimension for layer 110 comprises
about 8 inches.
[0088] Still referring to FIG. 5, this exemplary embodiment of
layer 110 is over an entirety of the area for channel regions 180,
182 and 184, and over only a portion of channel region 186.
Portions of sidewall surface 144 on one side (right side in this
view) of vertical baffle 188 represented as channel region 165 are
exposed wherein no layer 110 is provided. The opposite side (left
side in this view) of vertical baffle 188 has layer 110 over
sidewall surface 144. Further in this exemplary embodiment, layer
110 is provided directly against the sidewall surface 144 of tank
142. Alternatively, layer 110 can be spaced from sidewall surface
144 with a stationary fluid in between, for example, a gas such as
air. It should be understood that layer 110 can be provided over
interior surface 197 of tank 142 (see FIGS. 4A and 11), and over
any portion of interior surface 197, and in combination with layer
110 being provided over any portion of sidewall surface 144, or
over any portion of interior surface 197 alone.
[0089] Referring to FIG. 6, bonding strips 122, for example a tape
product, have an adhesive to allow strips 122 to be secured or
attached over seams 120 of layer 110. An exemplary bonding strip
122 is doubled sided foam tape. Strips 122 will facilitate
supporting layer 110 over sidewall surfaces 144 of tank 142.
Alternatively, adhesive such as hot melt glue is provided over
seams 120 separately and then strips 122 are provided over the
adhesive. The strips 122 can be provided in addition to an adhesive
(for example, double-sided foam tape) or glue already having been
provided beneath layer 110 between sidewall surface 144 and layer
110. Alternatively, strips 122 can be provided without any
additional adhesive between the sidewall surface 144 and layer 110
which leaves strips 122 to support layer 110 over the wall
structure 141. Having only strips 122 to support layer 110 will
facilitate subsequent removal of any one portion of layer 110 from
sidewall surface 144 if so desired. Removing portions of layer 110
from the portions of sidewall surface 144 will allow further
modification of tank 142 to provide the capability of further
changing the values of the thermal energy transfer characteristics
for the various portions of the sidewall surface 144. That is, tank
142 can be repeatedly modified to repeatedly change the value of
the thermal energy transfer characteristics for any one portion of
the sidewall surface 144 by adding, and alternatively removing,
layer 110 from the various one portions of sidewall surface
144.
[0090] Now referring to FIG. 7, an exemplary fluid flow of a fluid
medium or thermal regulating fluid is illustrated. The fluid flow
is possible when exemplary housing 199 (shown in FIGS. 8-9) is
provided over tank 142 as discussed subsequently. All the
discussions above with respect to sheet 15 of FIG. 3 are applicable
to housing 199. The following discussion with respect to fluid flow
is with the understanding that housing 199 of FIGS. 8-9 is in place
over tank 142 to form fluid passageways or fluid channels from
channel regions 165, 180, 182, 184 and 186. A rectangular opening
132 represented by dashed lines indicates an opening 132 of housing
199 to receive fluid flow from an exemplary heat exchanger (148
shown in FIG. 9) relative tank 142. Vertical baffle 188 divides
opening 132 into two spaced openings, an inlet 136 and an outlet
134. All the discussions above with respect to inlet 26 and outlet
28 of FIG. 3 are applicable to inlet 136 and outlet 134. Opening
132, inlet 136 and outlet 134 are in fluid communication with fluid
channels 165, 180, 182, 184 and 186. Moreover, opening 132, inlet
136 and outlet 134 are configured as rectangles, and in other
embodiments, can have other configurations such as circular
configurations. Furthermore, inlet 136 and outlet 134 can be
located at other positions relative tank 142 as long as fluid
communication with exemplary fluid channels is maintained.
[0091] Still referring to FIG. 7, the exemplary heat exchanger (148
of FIG. 9) provides an exemplary fluid medium, for example, air
through inlet 136. An exemplary heat exchanger 148 is a forced
fluid device that includes a blower, fan, chiller, heater, any
refrigeration system and an air conditioning unit. An exemplary air
conditioning unit is manufactured by Heat Controller, Inc., with an
exemplary brand being Comfort-Aire.RTM. having an exemplary
capacity of 10,000 Btu's. It should be understood that a source of
air is ambient air, and alternatively, any gas could be used.
Additionally, any liquid could be used as a fluid medium, such as
glycol and/or water. Fluid flow 138 represents an exemplary
beginning or first fluid flow of the fluid medium from inlet 136.
Fluid flow 138 travels over an exemplary first or beginning portion
of sidewall surface 144 which in this exemplary embodiment is
covered by layer 110. The fluid medium continues to flow around
tank 142, for example, fluid flow 193 travels through fluid channel
180 and fluid flow 196 travels through fluid channels 182, 184 and
186. Fluid flow 139 represents an exemplary last or final fluid
flow of the fluid medium through fluid channel 165 toward outlet
134. Fluid flow 139 travels over an exemplary last or final portion
of sidewall surface 144 which in this exemplary embodiment is not
covered by layer 110 until fluid flow 139 returns to heat exchanger
148 (FIG. 9) through outlet 134.
[0092] An exemplary pair of portions of vane structure 158 extend
to intersect or join each other to form fluid channel 184. The
exemplary pair of portions of vane structure 158 have exemplary
slots or grooves 130 to facilitate the flow of the fluid medium
between adjacent fluid channels. For example, the fluid medium
flows into fluid channel 184 from fluid channels 182 and 186.
Additionally, the dimension of vane structure 158 which extends
from the sidewall surface 144 gradually diminishes as the exemplary
pair of portions of vane structure 158 extend to meet at the
intersection. This construction also facilitates the flow of the
fluid medium between adjacent channel regions.
[0093] Consider an exemplary layer 110 that comprises insulative
material. Further consider the exemplary insulative layer 110
provided over the first portion, of sidewall surface 144 proximate
inlet 136. The exemplary insulative layer 110 will impede or
diminish the transfer of thermal energy across this first portion
of sidewall surface 144. That is, the values of the thermal energy
transfer characteristics of the first portion of sidewall surface
144 are changed or modified by the addition of the layer 110. This
provides the capability to selectively adjust and/or modify tank
142 to impede or diminish thermal energy transfer across the first
portion of the sidewall surface 144. This will effectively prevent
ice formation on interior surface 197 (FIG. 4A) opposite the first
portion of the sidewall surface 144 because the thermal energy
transfer power or effect of the fluid medium is diminished or
impeded.
[0094] Accordingly, thermal regulating system 140 will provide the
capability for selectively modifying and adjusting thermal energy
transfer characteristics of a portion of the wall structure 141
(FIG. 4A) of tank 142. Moreover, selectively adjusting and
modifying thermal energy transfer characteristics along variable
portions of an exemplary fluid channel fosters thermal energy
transfer along an entirety of the path through the fluid channel.
That is, the fluid medium is prevented from reaching a temperature
equilibrium with the contents within tank 142, and therefore, the
thermal energy transfer continues to occur between the contents and
the fluid medium through an entirety of the path of the fluid
channel. With thermal energy transfer occurring throughout an
entirety of the fluid channel, efficiency of thermal regulating
system 140 is greatly increased. Moreover, the period of time
needed to adjust and/or modify a temperature of a region of the
contents within a tank is greatly reduced. Accordingly, if the
temperature of a portion of the contents within a tank is not
within an acceptable temperature range, this exemplary embodiment
of the thermal regulating system 140 provides the capability of a
quick response time to bring the wayward temperature back within
the acceptable temperature range. Additionally, the capability of
being able to selectively adjust and modify thermal energy transfer
characteristics along variable portions of fluid channels enables
the selective creation or forming of different temperature strata
regions within the wine mass. This is beneficial if you need
different regions of the mass of contents within a tank to process
at different temperatures, for example, a wine mass during
fermentation.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 8-9, an exemplary housing 199 is provided
over tank 142 to effectively enclose substantially an entirety of
sidewall surface 144 and form an exemplary fluid channel between
respective portions of vane structure 158. Exemplary materials for
housing 199 comprise molded or malleable material which include
thermally insulative material and/or thermally conductive material,
for example, polymers, plastics, fiberglass, metals, stainless
steel, polyethylene, wood, foam, flexible foam, molded polymer
composite, formed metal, low density foam, high density foam,
styrofoam, high density styrofoam and high density polyethylene
foam, metal alloys, rubber, rubber foam, and including any
combinations of these materials. An exemplary thickness dimension
for housing 199 can range from about 0.1 inch to about 24 inches,
from about inch to about 12 inches, and from about 2 inches to
about 8 inches. An exemplary thickness dimension for housing 199 is
about 2 inches. In one embodiment, housing 199 is a rectangular
piece of material that has opposite side edges 163 and 164 which
extend between a top edge 185 and a bottom edge 187. Side edge 163
has an inwardly extending opening 167. Side edge 164 has an
inwardly extending opening 166. Opening 117 is provided in housing
199 to expose and allow manipulation of second access opening 116
through housing 199. A closure 194 is secured over opening 117 and
to housing 199. Exemplary material for housing 199 includes
styrofoam that can be purchased from Home Depot in large rolls
and/or sheets.
[0096] Still referring to FIGS. 8-9, housing 199 is wrapped around
tank 142 wherein side edges 163 and 164 meet to form a seam 195 and
housing 199 substantially encloses tank 142. Upon wrapping tank 142
with housing 199, inwardly extending openings 166 and 167 are
aligned and configured to form previously described opening 132,
including inlet 136 and outlet 134. Accordingly, inwardly extending
openings 166 and 167 form opening 132 to receive heat exchanger
148. Housing 199 has a pair of slits 168 extending downward from
respective inwardly extending openings 166 and 167. Each slit 168
terminates to form a hole 169. Slits 168 and holes 169 are
configured to allow housing 199 to be provided over heat exchanger
supports 154 (FIG. 9) during the positioning of housing 199 on
and/or off tank 142. However, this is assuming that heat exchanger
148 is secured to tank 142 before positioning of housing 199 on
and/or off tank 142. Alternatively, housing 199 is positioned
relative tank 142 before the heat exchanger 148 is secured to tank
142 wherein slits 168 may not be needed. Further, once housing 199
is provided over tank 142, top edge 185 of housing 199 is
positioned proximate first circumferential ring 112 and bottom edge
187 is positioned proximate second circumferential ring 157.
[0097] Referring to FIG. 9, removable straps 198 are provided over
housing 199 and closure 194 to secure housing 199 and closure 194
to tank 142. Exemplary straps 198 include 600 lb. polyester
strapping. It should be understood that removable straps 198 have
opposite ends with connectors (not shown) that can be repeatedly
connected and unconnected to selectively allow removal and
re-attachment of housing 199 relative to tank 142. An exemplary
housing 199 is supported against vane structure 158 without being
secured or fastened to vane structure 158 leaving only straps 198
to secure housing 199 over tank 142. In another embodiment, housing
199 is secured only to vane structure 158 wherein straps 198 are
not needed. An attachment means or method between housing 199 and
vane structure 158 include screws and/or an adhesive such as glue.
In still another embodiment, straps 198 are used in combination
with the attachment means to secure housing 199 to tank 142. If
only straps 198 are used, housing 199 can more easily and quickly
be removed from tank 142 to allow access to fluid channels and
layer 110 for additional modification of tank 142.
[0098] Referring to FIG. 10, another exemplary thermal regulating
system 240 is illustrated according to another embodiment of the
present invention. This embodiment has outer shell 173 provided
over housing 199 of previously-described thermal regulating system
140. Outer shell 173 will protect housing 199 and provide
additional protection to tank 142. An exemplary outer shell 173
comprises an insulative material and/or a conductive material. An
exemplary thickness dimension for an outer shell 173 of insulative
material will range from about 0.02 inches to about 12 inches. An
exemplary thickness dimension for an outer shell 173 of conductive
material will range from about 0.030 inches to about 1 inch. An
exemplary material for outer shell 173 includes stainless steel or
enameled steel.
[0099] Referring to FIG. 11, an exemplary sectional view of thermal
regulating system 240 is taken along sectional line 11-11 of FIG.
10. The exemplary vane structure 158 is secured to sidewall surface
144 of tank 142 by at least one adhesive. An exemplary method of
securing vane structure 158 to tank 142 is providing tape 175 on
sidewall surface 144 and an adhesive 171 between tape 175 and vane
structure 158, with adhesive being provided over at least one of
the tape 175 and vane structure 158. It should be understood that
the order of tape 175 and adhesive 171 can be reversed between vane
structure 158 and sidewall surface 144. It should be understood
that this exemplary method of securing vane structure 158 to tank
142 is applicable to all embodiments of thermal regulating systems
described within this document. An exemplary tape 175 includes poly
foam tape such as double stick foam tape manufactured by 3M. An
exemplary adhesive includes glue, such as hot melt glue.
[0100] Tank 142 is supported on a foundation 183 adjacent base
portion 156. An exemplary outer shell 173 is secured to second
circumferential ring 157 by screw 179. The space between housing
199 and layer 110 represents an exemplary fluid channel 191. While
straps 198 are not provided, in one exemplary embodiment of thermal
regulating system 240 can be provided over housing 199 under outer
shell 173. It should be understood that layer 110 can be provided
over any portion of interior surface 197 of wall structure 141
instead of being provided over sidewall surface 144 of tank 142.
Alternatively, layer 110 can be provided over any portion of
interior surface 197 of wall structure 141 in combination with
being provided over sidewall surface 144 of tank 142.
[0101] Referring to FIG. 12, another exemplary thermal regulating
system 300 is illustrated according to another embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, the outer shell 173 is
replaced by a plurality of sectional pieces 302 secured over
housing 199 and tank 142. The width of respective sectional pieces
302 measured along the vertical axis can have any dimension with
the understanding that the smaller the width, the more sectional
pieces 302 needed to cover tank 142. An exemplary width of
exemplary sectional pieces 302 is from about 6 inches to about 24
feet with an exemplary width being about 2 feet. One exemplary
sectional piece 302 is secured to an elevationally adjacent
sectional piece 302 by rivets 304 and/or screws.
[0102] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 13A, an exemplary sectional view
of thermal regulating system 300 is taken along sectional line
13-13 of FIG. 12. In this exemplary embodiment, an exemplary
housing 399 replaces housing 199 of the previously-described
thermal regulating system. Housing 399 comprises a plurality of
sections of material over tank 142. Each section of housing 399 is
spaced elevationally adjacent a next section of housing 399 leaving
a spacing 312 over exemplary vane structure 358 between respective
sections of housing 399. In this exemplary embodiment, vane
structure 358 replaces vane structure 158 of the
previously-described thermal regulating system with the substantial
difference being different dimensions. Vane structure 358 has an
exemplary width extending along the vertical axis comprising about
4 inches and has an exemplary thickness extending perpendicularly
from tank 142 comprising about 4 inches. Respective sections of
housing 399 can rest against vane structure 358 with or without an
adhesive. In this exemplary embodiment, sections of housing 399
have a space 320 relative respective sectional pieces 302, wherein
the spacing can be provided by straps 198. In another exemplary
embodiment, sections of housing 399 can be provided against housing
399.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 14, another exemplary thermal regulating
system 400 is illustrated according to another embodiment of the
present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mesh
or screen structure 450 replaces layer 110 of the
previously-described thermal regulating system. It should be
understood that mesh structure 450 can be provided in combination
with layer 110. An exemplary screen or mesh structure 450 can be
provided over any portion of the surface area of sidewall surface
144 of tank 142. An exemplary screen or mesh structure 450 can be
provided over any portion of the surface area of exemplary fluid
channels. Exemplary shapes of openings in exemplary mesh structures
450 can comprise diamonds, squares, circles, rectangles, hexagons,
etc. Exemplary combination configurations of screen or mesh
structures 450 can comprise a plurality of mesh structures, one
positioned over the other, and having the same or different shapes
of openings wherein the openings can be aligned or misaligned over
each other. Exemplary materials for mesh structures 450 include
fibers, metal alloys, plastics, polymers, textiles, fabrics, silk,
rubber, polymers, plastics, fiberglass, metals, stainless steel,
polyethylene, wood, foam, flexible foam, molded polymer composite,
formed metal, low density polyethylene foam, high density foam,
styrofoam, high density styrofoam and high density polyethylene
foam, metal alloys and including any combinations of these
materials.
[0104] At least one exemplary method is now explained how the
exemplary mesh structure 450 will change the value of at least one
thermal energy transfer characteristic of tank 142. As a volume of
an exemplary fluid medium such as air flows through an exemplary
fluid channel, a portion of the volume of air will flow over mesh
structure 450, another portion of the volume of air will exist in
the openings of mesh structure 450. The portion of air in the
openings will be relatively stationary relative to the portion of
air moving over the mesh structure 450. Accordingly, the relatively
stationary portion of air in the openings will act as an insulator
which impedes or diminishes thermal energy transfer between the
portion of air moving over the mesh structure 450 and the sidewall
surface 144 of tank 142. In this exemplary thermal regulating
system 400, the portions of sidewall surface 144 within the fluid
channel which are covered by mesh structure 450 will have a
different value for the at least one thermal energy transfer
characteristic of tank 142 relative the portions of the sidewall
surface 144 not covered by mesh structure 450.
[0105] Moreover, a section of mesh structure 450 can be stretched
or strained by tensioning to selectively change or modify the
influence the mesh structure 450 has on that portion of sidewall
surface 144 being covered by the section. That is, if the sidewall
surface 144 has a first value for the at least one thermal energy
transfer characteristic, then the portion of sidewall surface 144
which is covered by mesh structure 450 has a second value for the
at least one thermal energy transfer characteristic. Additionally,
by stretching the section of the mesh structure 450, that portion
of sidewall 144 covered by the stretched section of mesh structure
450 will have a second third value for the at least one thermal
energy transfer characteristic. The third value will be a different
from the first and second values for the at least one thermal
energy transfer characteristic. It should be understood that mesh
or screen structure 450 can be provided over any portion of
interior surface 197 (FIGS. 4A and 11) of wall structure 141
instead of being provided over sidewall surface 144 of tank 142.
Alternatively, mesh or screen structure 450 can be provided over
any portion of interior surface 197 of wall structure 141 in
combination with being provided over sidewall surface 144 of tank
142.
[0106] Another exemplary thermal regulating system according to
another embodiment of the present invention, not illustrated, is
now described. First consider that a fluid medium moving through a
channel region will flow substantially in a laminar configuration.
This laminar flow will have a first value for the at least one
thermal energy transfer characteristic. Altering the laminar will
produce another value for the at least one thermal energy transfer
characteristic. Accordingly, this exemplary embodiment includes a
method of placing obstructions on the sidewall surface 144 within
channel regions. The obstructions will interrupt the laminar flow
of the fluid medium to form turbulence within the fluid flow. The
turbulent flow of the fluid medium will establish a heat transfer
characteristic that produces a second value for the at least one
thermal energy transfer characteristic.
[0107] Exemplary obstructions include any piece of material secured
to sidewall surface 144, for example, by providing a rough coating
of granules secured in a resin. Another exemplary method of
providing obstructions includes blowing foam pieces on a wet resin
base wherein the resin base is provided or coated on selected
portions of the sidewall surface 144. The obstructions can be
placed randomly on sidewall surface 144, or in an orderly or
patterned fashion. The greater the volume or mass of each
obstruction corresponds to an increase in the turbulence created in
the fluid flow. It should be understood that only a few
obstructions are needed to create the turbulent flow, and as each
increases in size, mass and/or volume, the fewer number of
obstructions needed. Moreover, it should be understood that
turbulent fluid flow will generally increase thermal energy
transfer across the sidewall surface 144. Accordingly, generally,
the second value for the at least one thermal energy transfer
characteristic resulting from turbulent fluid flow will be greater
than the first value resulting from laminar fluid flow.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 15, another exemplary thermal regulating
system 500 is illustrated according to another embodiment of the
present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, an exemplary
coating or paint material 504 replaces mesh structure 450 of the
previously-described thermal regulating system. It should be
understood that coating 504 can be provided in combination with
layer 110 and/or in combination with mesh structure 450. An
exemplary coating 504 includes a resin and can be provided over any
portion of the surface area of sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. An
exemplary coating 504 comprises a degree of opaqueness, and
alternatively stated, a degree of translucency. An exemplary
coating 504 comprises a fluid having a material therein that
provides a degree of opaqueness or translucency to coating 504
wherein the degree of opaqueness or translucency can be selectively
altered by the removal or addition of the material to coating 504.
An exemplary material that is added to the coating 504 is graphite.
For example, by changing or modifying the amount of graphite
material within coating 504, the degree of opaqueness or
translucency of coating 504 will correspondingly change or be
modified. The exemplary coating 504 can be changed or modified to
have an infinite number of different degrees of opaqueness or
translucency.
[0109] In one exemplary embodiment, the amount of graphite within
coating 504 is increased creating a higher degree of opaqueness,
and stated alternatively, creating a lower degree of translucency.
It should be understood that as the degree of opaqueness increases
for coating 504, an increase in thermal energy is being absorbed by
coating 504, and therefore, a decrease in thermal energy is being
transferred across the sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. The
addition of graphite to the resin for coating 504 corresponds to
thermal energy being impeded or partially blocked from transferring
across the sidewall surface 144 of tank 142.
[0110] In an exemplary configuration of coating 504, a first
portion of sidewall surface 144 of tank 142 comprises coating 504
having a first degree of opaqueness or translucency, and a second
different portion of sidewall surface 144 of tank 142 comprises
coating 504 having a second different degree of opaqueness or
translucency. The first degree is greater than the second degree,
and alternatively, the first degree is less than the second degree.
In another embodiment, a third different portion of sidewall
surface 144 of tank 142 comprises coating 504 having a third
different degree of opaqueness or translucency. It should be
understood that any coating 504 can have its degree, of opaqueness
or translucency selectively altered or changed to a lesser degree
or a greater degree of opaqueness or translucency.
[0111] Still referring to FIG. 15, another exemplary coating 504 is
described. An exemplary coating 504 comprises a degree of
reflectivity. An exemplary coating 504 comprises a fluid having
silver and/or aluminum material therein, or any material that has a
reflectivity quality and provides a reflectivity quality to coating
504 when added to coating 504. For example, by changing or
modifying the amount of silver and/or aluminum material within
coating 504, the degree of reflectivity of coating 504 will
correspondingly change or be modified. The exemplary coating 504
can be changed or modified to have an infinite number of different
degrees of reflectivity. For example, as the amount of silver
and/or aluminum is increased within the resin of coating 504, the
degree of reflectivity is increased. As the degree of reflectivity
of coating 504 is increased, the more thermal energy that is
impeded or partially blocked from reaching the sidewall surface 144
and the contents within tank 142.
[0112] In an exemplary configuration of coating 504, a first
portion of sidewall surface 144 of tank 142 comprises coating 504
having a first degree of reflectivity. A second different portion
of sidewall surface 144 comprises coating 504 having a second
different degree of reflectivity. The first degree is greater than
the second degree, and alternatively, the first degree is less than
the second degree. In another embodiment, a third different portion
of sidewall surface 144 of tank 142 comprises coating 504 having a
third different degree of reflectivity. It should be understood
that any coating 504 can have its degree of reflectivity
selectively altered or changed to a lesser degree or a greater
degree of reflectivity. It should be understood that coating or
paint material 504 can be provided over any portion of interior
surface 197 (FIGS. 4A and 11) of wall structure 141 instead of
being provided over sidewall surface 144 of tank 142.
Alternatively, coating or paint material 504 can be provided over
any portion of interior surface 197 of wall structure 141 in
combination with being provided over sidewall surface 144 of tank
142.
[0113] Referring to FIG. 16, another exemplary thermal regulating
system 600 is illustrated according to another embodiment of the
present invention. In this exemplary embodiment, an exemplary
collection of fin structures 612 extend upwardly from portions of
sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. The exemplary fin structures 612
replace coating or paint material 504 of the previously-described
thermal regulating system. It should be understood that fin
structures 612 can be provided in combination with coating 504,
layer 110 and/or in combination with mesh structure 450. An
exemplary collection of fin structures 612 can be provided over any
portion of the surface area of sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. An
exemplary collection of fin structures 612 comprises intermittently
spaced fin structures 612 extending generally perpendicularly from
sidewall surface 144 having a spacing 618 between each respective
fin structure 612. Spacing 618 between respective fin structures
612 can be any dimension desired with an exemplary range for
spacing 618 being from about 0.1 inch to about 12 inches, with
another exemplary range for spacing 618 being from about 1 inch to
about 6 inches. An exemplary dimension for spacing 618 comprises 2
inches.
[0114] Still referring to FIG. 16, exemplary fin structures 612 can
extend from sidewall surface 144 at any angle desired and ranging
from about greater than 0 degrees to less than about 180 degrees.
Exemplary fin structures 612 can comprise any material discussed
previously with respect to material for vane structure 158.
Exemplary fin structures 612 can extend from sidewall surface 144
and terminate with an uppermost surface 616. The uppermost surface
616 can be spaced from the sidewall surface 144 at any distance
desired, and preferably, less than the same dimension for vane
structure 158. If the vane structure 158 extends at a first
dimension value from the sidewall surface 144, fins structures 612
can extend from sidewall surface 144 at any percentage of the first
dimension value. For example, an exemplary percentage range
includes fins structures 612 extending from sidewall surface 144 at
least greater than 0 percent to less than 100 percent of the first
dimension value, with another exemplary percentage range being from
about 0.5 percent to about 25 percent.
[0115] In this exemplary embodiment, exemplary fin structures 612
have opposite ends spaced from respective portions of vane
structure 158. It should be understood that the opposite ends can
be spaced at any distance from the respective portions of vane
structure 158, including being formed against the respective
portions of vane structure 158. It should be understood that while
the fin structures 612 extend substantially along or parallel to a
vertical axis, the fin structures 612 can extend substantially at
any angle desired relative the vertical axis. It should be
understood that any shape, size, placement and angle of respective
fin structures 612 can be adjusted, either individually or in
groups, to modify or alter the thermal energy transfer
characteristics of the sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. For
example, fin structures 612 can be formed to be capable of movement
relative sidewall surface 144 wherein the fin structures 612 can
rescind below the sidewall surface 144 into tank 142. In this
position, the fin structures 612 will not influence significantly
the thermal energy transfer characteristics of the sidewall surface
144 of tank 142. Moreover, the fin structures 612 can move to
position the uppermost surface 616 at selective elevational
distances from sidewall surface 144. By selectively adjusting the
distance of the uppermost surface 616 relative the sidewall surface
144, the thermal energy transfer characteristics of the sidewall
surface 144 is selectively adjusted. Exemplary systems which
provide the capability of moving fin structures 612 include
manually moving the fin structures 612, electro-mechanically moving
the fin structures 612, electrostatically moving the fin structures
612, and automatically moving the fin structures 612.
[0116] At least one exemplary method is now explained how the
exemplary fin structures 612 will change the value of at least one
thermal energy transfer characteristic of tank 142. As a volume of
an exemplary fluid medium such as air flows through an exemplary
fluid channel, a portion of the volume of air will flow over fin
structures 612, another portion of the volume of air will exist in
the spacings 618 between respective fin structures 612. The portion
of air in the spacings 618 will be relatively stationary relative
to the portion of air moving over the fin structures 612.
Accordingly, the relatively stationary portion of air in the
spacings 618 will act as an insulator which impedes or diminishes
thermal energy transfer between the portion of air moving over the
fin structures 612 and the sidewall surface 144 of tank 142. In
this exemplary thermal regulating system 600, the portions of
sidewall surface 144 within the fluid channel which are covered by
fin structures 612 will have a different value for the at least one
thermal energy transfer characteristic of tank 142 relative the
portions of the sidewall surface 144 not covered by fin structures
612.
[0117] Another exemplary thermal regulating system according to
another embodiment of the present invention, not illustrated, is
now described. A structure similar to a set of venetian blinds is
provided to encircle tank 142 and provided within the channel
regions. The venetian blind structure will have a plurality of thin
slats wherein the angle of the slats relative the sidewall surface
144 is controlled or adjusted by chords. The slats can extend at
any angle relative a horizontal axis, and one embodiment the slats
are configured similar to fin structures 612 of the previously
described exemplary thermal regulating system 600. As the angle of
the slats change relative the sidewall surface 144, the
corresponding values of the thermal energy transfer characteristics
will change, and the change will be selectable to the desire of the
operator.
[0118] Similarly, another exemplary embodiment of present invention
includes inflatable tubes provided in the channel regions. A second
fluid medium will be provided in the inflatable tubes that can be
the same, or different from, the fluid medium provided in the
channel regions. The volume of the second fluid medium is selected
to inflate the tubes to a selectable size of volume. As the size or
volume of the inflatable tubes is selectively adjusted to increase
or decrease, the corresponding values of the thermal energy
transfer characteristics will change, and the change will be
selectable to the desire of the operator. If the second fluid
medium is to be the same as the fluid medium provided in the
channel regions, then the inflatable tubes can be in fluid
communication with the channel regions, and alternatively, the
inflatable tubes are in fluid communication with the channel
regions.
[0119] All the above described exemplary inventive embodiments of
the thermal regulating systems (excluding the one described in
FIGS. 3 and 3A) will impede or diminish the transfer of thermal
energy across selected portions of sidewall surface 144 of tank
142, including the selected portions of sidewall surface 144 within
exemplary fluid channels. That is, the values of the thermal energy
transfer characteristics of the selected portions of sidewall
surface 144 are changed or modified by the exemplary inventive
embodiments of the thermal regulating systems This provides the
capability to selectively adjusting and/or modifying tank 142 to
impede or diminish thermal energy transfer across any selected
portion of the sidewall surface 144. This will beneficially
encourage convection currents within the contents of tank 142 by
encouraging an overall and uniform thermal energy transfer along an
entirety of the channel regions. This result will effectively
prevent ice formation on interior surface 197 (FIG. 4) opposite any
selected portion of the sidewall surface 144. Ice prevention is
prevented because the thermal energy transfer power or effect of
the fluid medium is diminished or impeded in selective areas to
evenly distribute thermal energy across an entirety of the channel
regions. That is, the temperature extremes of cooling or heating
are eliminated allowing control of the thermal energy transfer and
control of the temperature at the desired level of sidewall surface
144, and therefore, control of the temperature of the contents
within tank 142.
[0120] Moreover, selectively adjusting and modifying thermal energy
transfer characteristics along any selected portion of an exemplary
fluid channel fosters thermal energy transfer along an entirety of
the path through the fluid channel. That is, the fluid medium is
prevented from reaching a temperature equilibrium with the contents
within tank 142, and therefore, the thermal energy transfer
continues to occur between the contents and the fluid medium
through an entirety of the path of the fluid channel. With thermal
energy transfer occurring throughout an entirety of the fluid
channel, efficiency and control of the thermal energy transfer for
thermal regulating system 140 is greatly increased. Moreover, the
period of time needed to adjust and/or modify a temperature of a
region of the contents within a tank is greatly reduced.
Accordingly, if the temperature of a portion of the contents within
a tank at a particular level is not within an acceptable
temperature range, these exemplary embodiments of the thermal
regulating systems provide the capability of a quick response time
to bring the wayward temperature back within the acceptable
temperature range. Additionally, the capability of being able to
selectively adjust and modify thermal energy transfer
characteristics along variable selected portions of fluid channels
enables the selective creation or forming of different temperature
strata regions within the contents within tank 142. This is
beneficial if you need different regions of the mass of contents
within a tank to process at different temperatures, for example, a
wine mass during fermentation.
[0121] Referring to FIGS. 17-19, exemplary openings and/or slots
are shown in exemplary vane structure 158 to facilitate the flow of
an exemplary fluid medium through exemplary fluid channels between
respective portions of vane structure 158. Referring to FIG. 17,
exemplary openings 137 are illustrated to extend through an
entirety of vane 158 and have a circular cross section. An
exemplary range for diameters of openings 137 comprises from about
0.2 inch to about 36 inches. Other cross section configurations of
openings 137 are possible, for example, square, rectangular,
hexagonal, etc. Vane 158 has an outermost edge 151 connected to an
upper surface 153 and opposite lower surface not shown. An
exemplary upper surface 153 (and corresponding lower surface) are
generally perpendicular to sidewall surface 144 and an exemplary
outermost edge 151 is generally parallel to sidewall surface 144.
Furthermore, an exemplary range of lengths 133 for upper surface
153 (and similarly lower surface not shown) comprises from about
0.1 inch to about 40 inches measured from layer 110 to outermost
edge 151 (or measured from sidewall surface 144 if the vane 158 is
provided directly against sidewall surface 144). Another exemplary
range of lengths 133 for upper surface 153 comprises from about 2.0
inches to about 10 inches, for example, about 4.0 inches. An
exemplary range of thicknesses 135 for outermost edge 151 comprises
from about 0.03 inch to about 6 inches, for example, 2 inches. It
should be understood that any reference to layer 110 in this
document also includes mesh structure 450, coating 504 and fin
structures 612.
[0122] Referring to FIGS. 18-19, exemplary slots 130 formed in vane
158 are formed to extend from outermost edge 151 to a selected
distance inwardly at least partially into vane 158 toward tank 142.
In other embodiments, exemplary slots 130 extend from outermost
edge 151 entirely through vane 158 to sidewall surface 144 or layer
110 of tank 142. Exemplary distances for slots 130 measured from
outermost edge 151 toward tank 142 can all be the same distances,
or have various different distances 143, 145, 147 and 149. It
should be understood that all of the exemplary embodiments of
exemplary layers 110 described within this document can be provided
over any portion of the interior surface 197 of tank 142, with or
without the exemplary layer 110 being provided over sidewall
surface 144. It should be understood that all of the exemplary
embodiments of exemplary fluid channels described within this
document can be provided over any portion of the interior surface
197 of tank 142, with or without the exemplary fluid channels being
provided over sidewall surface 144.
[0123] It should be understood that the prior art tank of FIG. 1
can be incorporated into any one of the above discussed inventive
embodiments of thermal regulating systems, FIGS. 3-19, to resolve
the thermal energy transfer problems discussed relative the prior
art tank of FIG. 1. For example, sheet or layer of flexible
material 15 (FIG. 3) and/or housing 199 (FIG. 8) can be provided
over tank 4 (FIG. 1) to form an air jacket around tank 4 (FIG. 1),
with or without the fluid channels. A forced air device could be
used to circulate ambient air around tank 4 (FIG. 1) using the air,
and glycol moving through thermal jacket 3 (FIG. 1), as heat
exchanging sources. Additionally, the glycol can be circulated
through an exemplary heat exchanger such as the heat exchangers 34
(FIG. 3) and 148 (FIG. 9) which would be in fluid communication
with the air jacket around tank 4 (FIG. 1).
[0124] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been
described in language more or less specific as to structural and
methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the
invention is not limited to the specific features shown and
described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred
forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is,
therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the
proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted in
accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.
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