U.S. patent application number 13/027244 was filed with the patent office on 2011-08-25 for thermal transfer device and associated systems and methods.
This patent application is currently assigned to McAlister Technologies, LLC. Invention is credited to Roy Edward McAlister.
Application Number | 20110203776 13/027244 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44475509 |
Filed Date | 2011-08-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110203776 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McAlister; Roy Edward |
August 25, 2011 |
THERMAL TRANSFER DEVICE AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS
Abstract
Embodiments of thermal transfer devices and associated systems
and methods are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a thermal
transfer system can include a conduit that has an input portion, an
output portion, and a sidewall between the input and output
portions. Heat can enter the conduit at the input portion and exit
the conduit at the output portion. The thermal transfer system can
further include an end cap proximate to a terminus of the conduit.
A working fluid can circulate through the conduit utilizing a
vaporization-condensation cycle. The thermal transfer device can
also include an architectural construct having a plurality of
parallel layers of a synthetic matrix characterization of a
crystal.
Inventors: |
McAlister; Roy Edward;
(Phoenix, AZ) |
Assignee: |
McAlister Technologies, LLC
Phoenix
AZ
|
Family ID: |
44475509 |
Appl. No.: |
13/027244 |
Filed: |
February 14, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12857546 |
Aug 16, 2010 |
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13027244 |
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12707651 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12857546 |
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PCT/US10/24497 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12857546 |
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12707653 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12857546 |
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12707656 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12857546 |
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PCT/US10/24499 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12857546 |
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PCT/US10/24498 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12857546 |
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12857228 |
Aug 16, 2010 |
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PCT/US10/24498 |
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12707651 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12857228 |
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PCT/US10/24497 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12707651 |
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12707653 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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PCT/US10/24497 |
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12707656 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12707653 |
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PCT/US10/24499 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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12707656 |
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PCT/US10/24498 |
Feb 17, 2010 |
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PCT/US10/24499 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61153253 |
Feb 17, 2009 |
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61237476 |
Aug 27, 2009 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61153253 |
Feb 17, 2009 |
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61237476 |
Aug 27, 2009 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61153253 |
Feb 17, 2009 |
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61237476 |
Aug 27, 2009 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61153253 |
Feb 17, 2009 |
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61237476 |
Aug 27, 2009 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61153253 |
Feb 17, 2009 |
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61237476 |
Aug 27, 2009 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61153253 |
Feb 17, 2009 |
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61237476 |
Aug 27, 2009 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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61304403 |
Feb 13, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
165/104.26 ;
165/104.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F28D 15/046 20130101;
Y02E 10/10 20130101; F24T 10/30 20180501; Y02E 10/44 20130101; F28D
15/0208 20130101; F03G 7/05 20130101; F24S 10/95 20180501; Y02E
10/30 20130101; Y02E 10/40 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
165/104.26 ;
165/104.21 |
International
Class: |
F28D 15/04 20060101
F28D015/04; F28D 15/02 20060101 F28D015/02 |
Claims
1. A thermal transfer system, comprising: a conduit having an input
portion, an output portion opposite the input portion, and a
sidewall between the input and output portions, wherein heat enters
the conduit at the input portion and heat exits the conduit at the
output portion, and wherein a working fluid enclosed in the conduit
changes from a liquid phase to a vapor phase proximate to the input
portion and from the vapor phase to the liquid phase proximate to
the output portion; an end cap proximate to a terminus of the
conduit; and an architectural construct including a plurality of
layers oriented generally parallel to one another, wherein
individual layers comprise a synthetic matrix characterization of a
crystal.
2. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the architectural
construct comprises at least one of graphene, graphite, and boron
nitride.
3. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein: the sidewall
comprises the architectural construct, the layers being
substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the conduit, and
the architectural construct being configured to drive the liquid
phase from the output portion to the input portion by capillary
action; and the layers are angled toward the conduit proximate to
the input and output portions.
4. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the sidewall
comprises the architectural construct, the layers being
approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the
conduit.
5. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the end cap
comprises the architectural construct, and wherein the layers are
approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the
conduit.
6. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the end cap
comprises the architectural construct, and wherein the layers are
substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the conduit.
7. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein: the end cap is
proximate to the output portion, the end cap comprising the
architectural construct having layers substantially parallel to a
longitudinal axis of the conduit; and the architectural construct
is configured to separate at least one predetermined constituent
from the working fluid.
8. The thermal transfer system of claim 7 wherein a solution enters
the conduit at the input portion and the predetermined constituent
includes a portion of the solution.
9. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein: the end cap is
proximate to the input portion, the end cap comprising the
architectural construct having layers substantially parallel to a
longitudinal axis of the conduit; and the architectural construct
is configured to prevent at least one predetermined material from
entering the conduit via the end cap.
10. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the end cap is
proximate to the input portion, and wherein the end cap comprises
the architectural construct having layers substantially parallel to
a longitudinal axis of the conduit such that the end cap receives
radiant heat having a first wavelength between the layers and the
architectural construct re-radiates at least a portion of the
radiant heat at a second wavelength different from the first
wavelength.
11. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the end cap is
at the input portion and includes the architectural construct, and
wherein the system further comprises; a liquid reservoir proximate
in fluid communication with the input portion of the conduit; a
controller operably coupled to the liquid reservoir, wherein the
controller regulates flow of the working fluid between the liquid
reservoir and the conduit; and wherein the thermal transfer system
includes a first condition and a second condition, the end cap
absorbing heat and the liquid accumulator storing the working fluid
in the first condition, the liquid reservoir directing the working
fluid into the conduit and the working fluid absorbing heat from
the end cap in the second condition.
13. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein: the
architectural construct includes a first architectural construct
and a second architectural construct; the sidewall includes the
first architectural construct and the second architectural
construct inward of the first architectural construct; the layers
of the first architectural construct are substantially parallel to
a longitudinal axis of the conduit; the layers of the second
architectural construct are substantially perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis; and the layers of the first architectural
construct drive a fluid toward the input portion, the fluid being
at least one of the working fluid and an external fluid outside the
conduit.
14. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the liquid phase
returns to the input region by at least one of gravity, capillary
action, and centrifugal force.
15. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the input
portion is installed proximate to at least one of a solar
collector, a geothermal formation, and permafrost.
16. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the output
portion is installed proximate to at least one of an aquifer, a gas
hydrate deposit, and a geological surface.
17. The thermal transfer system of claim 1 wherein the input
portion is a first input portion and the system further comprises a
second input portion opposite the first input portion, the output
portion being between the first and second input portions.
18. A thermal transfer device, comprising: a conduit having a
vaporization region, a condensation region opposite the
vaporization region, and a sidewall wall extending between the
vaporization region and the condensation region; an architectural
construct comprising multiple layers of a synthetic matrix
characterization of a crystal, individual layers being oriented
substantially parallel to one another; and a working fluid within
the conduit, wherein the working fluid includes a liquid phase at
the condensation region and a vapor phase at the vaporization
region.
19-39. (canceled)
40. A thermal transfer system, comprising: a conduit having an
input portion, an output portion opposite the input portion, and a
sidewall between the input and output portions, wherein heat enters
the conduit at the input portion and heat exits the conduit at the
output portion; a thermal accumulator at the input portion; a
reservoir in fluid communication with the input portion; and a
working fluid in the conduit, wherein the working fluid changes
from a liquid to a vapor proximate to the input portion and from
the vapor to the liquid proximate to the output portion.
41. The thermal transfer system of claim 40 wherein the thermal
accumulator comprises an architectural construct having a plurality
of layers substantially parallel to one another and substantially
aligned with a heat source, wherein individual parallel layers
comprise a synthetic matrix characterization of a crystal.
42-53. (canceled)
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit
of U.S. Patent Application No. 61/304,403, filed on Feb. 13, 2010
and titled FULL SPECTRUM ENERGY AND RESOURCE INDEPENDENCE. The
present application is a continuation in part of: U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/857,546, filed on Aug. 16, 2010 and titled
INCREASING THE EFFICIENCY OF SUPPLEMENTED OCEAN THERMAL ENERGY
CONVERSION (SOTEC) SYSTEMS, and U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/857,228, filed on Aug. 16, 2010 and titled GAS HYDRATE
CONVERSION SYSTEM FOR HARVESTING HYDROCARBON HYDRATE DEPOSITS, each
of which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 61/304,403, filed Feb. 13, 2010 and titled FULL
SPECTRUM ENERGY AND RESOURCE INDEPENDENCE. U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/857,546 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/857,228
are also each a continuation-in-part of each of the following
applications: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/707,651, filed
Feb. 17, 2010 and titled ELECTROLYTIC CELL AND METHOD OF USE
THEREOF; PCT Application No. PCT/US10/24497, filed Feb. 17, 2010
and titled ELECTROLYTIC CELL AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF; U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/707,653, filed Feb. 17, 2010 and titled
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING NUCLEATION DURING
ELECTROLYSIS; PCT Application No. PCT/US10/24498, filed Feb. 17,
2010 and titled APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING NUCLEATION
DURING ELECTROLYSIS; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/707,656,
filed Feb. 17, 2010 and titled APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR GAS CAPTURE
DURING ELECTROLYSIS; and PCT Application No. PCT/US10/24499, filed
Feb. 17, 2010 and titled APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING
NUCLEATION DURING ELECTROLYSIS; each of which claims priority to
and the benefit of the following applications: U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/153,253, filed Feb. 17, 2009 and titled
FULL SPECTRUM ENERGY; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
61/237,476, filed Aug. 27, 2009 and titled ELECTROLYZER AND ENERGY
INDEPENDENCE TECHNOLOGIES; U.S. Provisional Application No.
61/304,403, filed Feb. 13, 2010 and titled FULL SPECTRUM ENERGY AND
RESOURCE INDEPENDENCE. Each of these applications is incorporated
herein by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present technology relates generally to thermal transfer
devices and associated systems and methods.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Heat pipes transfer heat between a heat source and a heat
sink utilizing a liquid-vapor phase change of a working fluid. For
example, a working fluid enclosed in a conventional heat pipe
contacts and absorbs heat from a hot interface such that it changes
to a vapor phase. The vapor pressure drives the vapor phase working
fluid through a conduit to a cold interface where the working fluid
condenses to a liquid phase. The cold interface absorbs the latent
heat from the phase change and removes it from the system. The
liquid phase working fluid then returns to the hot interface using
capillary action or gravity to continue the
vaporization-condensation cycle.
[0004] Heat pipes can generally transport large amounts of heat
with relatively small temperature gradients and without mechanical
moving parts. Thus, heat pipes can provide efficient heat transfer
means. However, non-condensing gases can diffuse through the heat
pipe's wall and thereby cause impurities in the working fluid that
diminish the heat pipe's efficiency. Additionally, extreme
temperatures can cease the vaporization-condensation cycle. For
example, extreme heat can prevent the working fluid from
condensing, whereas extreme cold can prevent the working fluid from
vaporizing. Accordingly, there is a need to improve the efficiency
and adaptability of heat pipes and to harness the resultant thermal
energy.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a thermal
transfer device configured in accordance with an embodiment of the
present technology.
[0006] FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic cross-sectional views of
thermal transfer devices configured in accordance with other
embodiments of the present technology.
[0007] FIG. 3A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a thermal
transfer device operating in a first direction in accordance with a
further embodiment of the present technology, and FIG. 3B is a
schematic cross-sectional view of the thermal transfer device of
FIG. 3A operating in a second direction opposite the first
direction.
[0008] FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic plan views of thermal transfer
devices configured in accordance with embodiments of the present
technology.
[0009] FIG. 4C is a schematic cross-sectional view of a thermal
transfer device configured in accordance with an additional
embodiment of the present technology.
[0010] FIG. 5A is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system in
a representative environment in accordance with an embodiment of
the present technology, and FIG. 5B is an enlarged operational view
of a portion of the thermal transfer system of FIG. 5A.
[0011] FIG. 6A is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system in
a representative environment in accordance with another embodiment
of the present technology, and FIG. 6B is an enlarged operational
view of a portion of the thermal transfer system of FIG. 6A.
[0012] FIG. 7A is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system in
a representative environment in accordance with yet another
embodiment of the present technology, and FIGS. 7B and 7C are
enlarged operational views of portions of the thermal transfer
system of FIG. 7A.
[0013] FIG. 7D is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system in
a representative environment in accordance with still another
embodiment of the present technology.
[0014] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system in a
representative environment in accordance with a further embodiment
of the present technology.
[0015] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of a thermal transfer
system in a representative environment in accordance with an
additional embodiment of the present technology, and FIG. 9B is an
enlarged view of detail 9B of FIG. 9A.
[0016] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a thermal
transfer device configured in accordance with a further embodiment
of the present technology.
[0017] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system
1100 shown in a representative environment in accordance with yet
another embodiment of the present technology.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] The present disclosure describes thermal transfer devices,
as well as associated systems, assemblies, components, and methods
regarding the same. For example, several of the embodiments
described below are directed generally to thermal transfer devices
that include a working fluid or combination of working fluids that
transfer heat utilizing a vaporization-condensation cycle. As used
herein, the term working fluid can include any fluid that actuates
the thermal transfer device. In one embodiment, for example, the
working fluid is water. In other embodiments, the working fluid can
include ammonia, methanol, and/or other suitable working fluids
selected based on available fluids and desired outputs of the
thermal transfer device. Additionally, several embodiments
described below refer to a vaporization-condensation cycle that
changes the working fluid between a vapor phase and a liquid phase.
As used herein, the term vaporization-condensation cycle is
construed broadly to refer to any phase change of the working fluid
resulting in a transfer of heat.
[0019] Certain details are set forth in the following description
and in FIGS. 1-11 to provide a thorough understanding of various
embodiments of the disclosure. However, other details describing
well-known structures and systems often associated with thermal
transfer devices and/or other aspects of heating and cooling
systems are not set forth below to avoid unnecessarily obscuring
the description of various embodiments of the disclosure. Thus, it
will be appreciated that several of the details set forth below are
provided to describe the following embodiments in a manner
sufficient to enable a person skilled in the relevant art to make
and use the disclosed embodiments. Several of the details and
advantages described below, however, may not be necessary to
practice certain embodiments of the disclosure. Many of the
details, dimensions, angles, shapes, and other features shown in
the Figures are merely illustrative of particular embodiments of
the disclosure. Accordingly, other embodiments can have other
details, dimensions, angles, and features without departing from
the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. In addition, those
of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that further
embodiments of the disclosure can be practiced without several of
the details described below.
[0020] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment"
or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or
characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is
included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.
Thus, the occurrences of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an
embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not
necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the
particular features, structures, or characteristics described with
reference to a particular embodiment may be combined in any
suitable manner in one or more other embodiments. Moreover, the
headings provided herein are for convenience only and do not
interpret the scope or meaning of the claimed disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a thermal
transfer device 100 ("device 100") configured in accordance with an
embodiment of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 1, the
device 100 can include a conduit 102 that has an input portion 104,
an output portion 106 opposite the input portion 104, and a
sidewall 120 between the input and output portions 104 and 106. The
device 100 can further include a first end cap 108 at the input
portion 104 and a second end cap 110 at the output portion 106. The
device 100 can enclose a working fluid 122 (illustrated by arrows)
that changes between a vapor phase 122a and a liquid phase 122b
during a vaporization-condensation cycle.
[0022] In selected embodiments, the device 100 can also include one
or more architectural constructs 112. Architectural constructs 112
are synthetic matrix characterizations of crystals that are
primarily comprised of graphene, graphite, boron nitride, and/or
another suitable crystal. The configuration and the treatment of
these crystals heavily influence the properties that the
architectural construct 112 will exhibit when it experiences
certain conditions. For example, as explained in further detail
below, the device 100 can utilize architectural constructs 112 for
their thermal properties, capillary properties, sorbtive
properties, catalytic properties, and electromagnetic, optical, and
acoustic properties. As shown in FIG. 1, the architectural
construct 112 can be arranged as a plurality of substantially
parallel layers 114 spaced apart from one another by a gap 116. In
various embodiments, the layers 114 can be as thin as one atom. In
other embodiments, the thickness of the individual layers 114 can
be greater and/or less than one atom and the width of the gaps 116
between the layers 114 can vary. Methods of fabricating and
configuring architectural constructs, such as the architectural
constructs 112 shown in FIG. 1, are described in U.S. patent
application entitled "ARCHITECTURAL CONSTRUCT HAVING FOR EXAMPLE A
PLURALITY OF ARCHITECTURAL CRYSTALS" (Attorney Docket No.
69545-8701US), filed concurrently herewith and incorporated by
reference in its entirety.
[0023] As shown in FIG. 1, the first end cap 108 can be installed
proximate to a heat source (not shown) such that the first end cap
108 serves as a hot interface that vaporizes the working fluid 122.
Accordingly, the first end cap 108 can include a material with a
high thermal conductivity and/or transmissivity to absorb or
deliver heat from the heat source. In the embodiment illustrated in
FIG. 1, for example, the first end cap 108 includes the
architectural construct 112 made from a thermally conductive
crystal (e.g., graphene). The architectural construct 112 can be
arranged to increase its thermal conductively by configuring the
layers 114 to have a high concentration of thermally conductive
pathways (e.g., formed by the layers 114) substantially parallel to
the influx of heat. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the
layers 114 generally align with the incoming heat flow such that
heat enters the architectural construct 112 between the layers 114.
This configuration exposes the greatest surface area of the layers
114 to the heat and thereby increases the heat absorbed by the
architectural construct 112. Advantageously, despite having a much
lower density than metal, the architectural construct 112 can
conductively and/or radiatively transfer a greater amount of heat
per unit area than solid silver, raw graphite, copper, or
aluminum.
[0024] As further shown in FIG. 1, the second end cap 110 can expel
heat from the device 100 to a heat sink (not shown) such that the
second end cap 110 serves as a cold interface that condenses the
working fluid 122. The second end cap 110, like the first end cap
108, can include a material with a high thermal conductivity (e.g.,
copper, aluminum) and/or transmissivity to absorb and/or transmit
latent heat from the working fluid 122. Accordingly, like the first
end cap 108, the second end cap 110 can include the architectural
construct 112. However, rather than bringing heat into the device
100 like the first end cap 108, the second end cap 110 can convey
latent heat out of the device 100. In various embodiments, the
architectural constructs 112 of the first and second end caps 108
and 110 can be made from the similar materials and/or arranged to
have substantially similar thermal conductivities. In other
embodiments, the architectural constructs 112 can include different
materials, can be arranged in differing directions, and/or
otherwise configured to provide differing thermal conveyance
capabilities including desired conductivities and transmissivities.
In further embodiments, neither the first end cap 108 nor the
second end cap 110 includes the architectural construct 112.
[0025] In selected embodiments, the first end cap 108 and/or the
second end cap 110 can include portions with varying thermal
conductivities. For example, a portion of the first end cap 108
proximate to the conduit 102 can include a highly thermally
conductive material (e.g., the architectural construct 112
configured to promote thermal conductivity, copper, etc.) such that
it absorbs heat from the heat source and vaporizes the working
fluid 122. Another portion of the first end cap 108 spaced apart
from the conduit 102 can include a less thermally conductive
material to insulate the high conductivity portion. In certain
embodiments, for example, the insulative portion can include
ceramic fibers, sealed dead air space, and/or other materials or
structures with high radiant absorptivities and/or low thermal
conductivities. In other embodiments, the insulative portion of the
first end cap 108 can include the architectural construct 112
arranged to include a low concentration of thermally conductive
pathways (e.g., the layers 114 are spaced apart by large gaps 116)
such that it has a low availability for conductively transferring
heat.
[0026] In other embodiments, the configurations of the
architectural constructs 112 may vary from those shown in FIG. 1
based on the dimensions of the device 100, the temperature
differential between the heat source and the heat sink, the desired
heat transfer, the working fluid 122, and/or other suitable thermal
transfer characteristics. For example, architectural constructs 112
having smaller surface areas may be suited for microscopic
applications of the device 100 and/or high temperature
differentials, whereas architectural constructs 112 having higher
surface areas may be better suited for macroscopic applications of
the device 100 and/or higher rates of heat transfer. The thermal
conductivities of the architectural constructs 112 can also be
altered by coating the layers 114 with dark colored coatings to
increase heat absorption and with light colored coatings to reflect
heat away and thereby decrease heat absorption.
[0027] Referring still to FIG. 1, the device 100 can return the
liquid phase 122b of the working fluid 122 to the input portion 104
by capillary action. The sidewall 120 of the conduit 102 can thus
include a wick structure that exerts a capillary pressure on the
liquid phase 122b to drive it toward a desired location (e.g., the
input portion 104). For example, the sidewall 120 can include
cellulose, ceramic wicking materials, sintered or glued metal
powder, nanofibers, and/or other suitable wick structures or
materials that provide capillary action.
[0028] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the architectural
construct 112 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 118 of the
conduit 102 and configured to exert the necessary capillary
pressure to direct the liquid phase 122b of the working fluid 122
to the input portion 104. The composition, dopants, spacing, and/or
thicknesses of the layers 114 can be selected based on the surface
tension required to provide capillary action for the working fluid
122. Advantageously, the architectural construct 112 can apply
sufficient capillary pressure on the liquid phase 122b to drive the
working fluid 122 short and long distances (e.g., millimeters to
kilometers). Additionally, in selected embodiments, the surface
tension of the layers 114 can be manipulated such that the
architectural construct 112 rejects a preselected fluid. For
example, the architectural construct 112 can be configured to have
a surface tension that rejects any liquid other than the liquid
phase 122b of the working fluid 122. In such an embodiment, the
architectural construct 112 can function as a filter that prevents
any fluid other than the working fluid 122 (e.g., fluids tainted by
impurities that diffused into the conduit 102) from interfering
with the vaporization-condensation cycle.
[0029] In other embodiments, the selective capillary action of the
architectural construct 112 separates substances at far lower
temperatures than conventional distillation technologies. The
faster separation of substances by the architectural construct 112
can reduce or eliminates substance degradation caused if the
substance reaches higher temperatures within the device 100. For
example, a potentially harmful substance can be removed from the
working fluid 122 by the selective capillary action of the
architectural construct 112 before the working fluid 122 reaches
the higher temperatures proximate to the input portion 104.
[0030] The conduit 102 and the first and second end caps 108 and
110 can be sealed together using suitable fasteners able to
withstand the temperature differentials of the device 100. In other
embodiments, the device 100 is formed integrally. For example, the
device 100 can be molded using one or more materials. A vacuum can
be used to remove any air within the conduit 102, and then the
conduit 102 can be filled with a small volume of the working fluid
122 chosen to match the operating temperatures.
[0031] In operation, the device 100 utilizes a
vaporization-condensation cycle of the working fluid 122 to
transfer heat. More specifically, the first end cap 108 can absorb
heat from the heat source, and the working fluid 122 can in turn
absorb the heat from the first end cap 108 to produce the vapor
phase 122a. The pressure differential caused by the phase change of
the working fluid 122 can drive the vapor phase 122a of the working
fluid 122 to fill the space available and thus deliver the working
fluid 122 through the conduit 102 to the output portion 104. At the
output portion 104, the second end cap 110 can absorb heat from the
working fluid 122 to change the working fluid 122 to the liquid
phase 122b. The latent heat from the condensation of the working
fluid 122 can be transferred out of the device 100 via the second
end cap 110. In general, the heat influx to the first end cap 108
substantially equals the heat removed by the second end cap 110. As
further shown in FIG. 1, capillary action provided by the
architectural construct 112 or other wick structure can return the
liquid phase 122b of the working fluid 122 to the input portion
104. In selected embodiments, the termini of the layers 114 can be
staggered or angled toward the conduit 102 to facilitate entry of
the liquid phase 122b between the layers 114 and/or to facilitate
conversion of the liquid phase 122b to the vapor phase 122b at the
input portion 104. At the input portion 104, the working fluid 122
can again vaporize and continue to circulate through the conduit
102 by means of the vaporization-condensation cycle.
[0032] The device 100 can also operate the
vaporization-condensation cycle described above in the reverse
direction. For example, when the heat source and heat sink are
reversed, the first end cap 108 can serve as the cold interface and
the second end cap 110 can serve as the hot interface. Accordingly,
the input and output portions 104 and 106 are inverted such that
the working fluid 122 vaporizes proximate to the second end cap
110, condenses proximate to the first end cap 108, and returns to
the second end cap 110 using the capillary action provided by the
sidewall 120. The reversibility of the device 100 allows the device
100 to be installed irrespective of the positions of the heat
source and heat sink. Additionally, the device 100 can accommodate
environments in which the locations of the heat source and the heat
sink may reverse. For example, as described further below, the
device 100 can operate in one direction during the summer to
utilize solar energy and the device 100 can reverse direction
during the winter to utilize heat stored during the previous
summer.
[0033] Embodiments of the device 100 including the architectural
construct 112 at the first end cap 108 and/or second end cap 110
have higher thermal conductivity per unit area than conventional
conductors. This increased thermal conductivity can increase
process rate and the temperature differential between the first and
second end caps 108 and 110 to produce greater and more efficient
heat transfer. Additionally, embodiments including the
architectural construct 112 at the first and/or second end caps 108
and 110 require less surface area to absorb the heat necessary to
effectuate the vaporization-condensation cycle. Thus, the device
100 can be more compact than a conventional heat pipe that
transfers an equivalent amount of heat and provide considerable
cost reduction.
[0034] Referring still to FIG. 1, in various embodiments, the
device 100 can further include a liquid reservoir 124 in fluid
communication with the conduit 102 such that the liquid reservoir
124 can collect and store at least a portion of the working fluid
122. As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid reservoir 124 can be coupled to
the input portion 104 of the conduit 102 via a pipe or other
suitable tubular shaped structure. The liquid phase 122b can thus
flow from the sidewall 102 (e.g., the architectural construct 112,
wick structure, etc.) into the liquid reservoir 124. In other
embodiments, the liquid reservoir 124 is in fluid communication
with another portion of the conduit 102 (e.g., the output portion
106) such that the liquid reservoir 124 collects the working fluid
122 in the vapor phase 122a or in mixed phases.
[0035] The liquid reservoir 124 allows the device 100 to operate in
at least two modes: a heat accumulation mode and a heat transfer
mode. During the heat accumulation mode, the
vaporization-condensation cycle of the working fluid 122 can be
slowed or halted by funneling the working fluid 122 from the
conduit 102 to the liquid reservoir 124. The first end cap 108 can
then function as a thermal accumulator that absorbs heat without
the vaporization-condensation cycle dissipating the accumulated
heat. After the first end cap 108 accumulates a desired amount of
heat and/or the heat source (e.g., the sun) no longer supplies
heat, the device 100 can change to the heat transfer mode by
funneling the working fluid 122 into the conduit 102. The heat
stored in first end cap 108 can vaporize the incoming working fluid
122 and the pressure differential can drive the vapor phase 122a
toward the output portion 106 of the conduit 102 to restart the
vaporization-condensation cycle described above. In certain
embodiments, the restart of the vaporization-condensation cycle can
be monitored to analyze characteristics (e.g., composition, vapor
pressure, latent heat, efficiency) of the working fluid 122.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 1, a controller 126 can be operably coupled
to the liquid reservoir 124 to modulate the rate at which the
working fluid 122 enters the conduit 102 and/or adjust the volume
of the working fluid 122 flowing into or out of the conduit 102.
The controller 126 can thereby change the pressure within the
conduit 102 such that the device 100 can operate at varying
temperature differentials between the heat source and sink. Thus,
the device 100 can provide a constant heat flux despite a degrading
heat source (e.g., first end cap 108) or intermittent
vaporization-condensation cycles.
[0037] FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic cross-sectional views of
thermal transfer devices 200 ("devices 200") in accordance with
other embodiments of the present technology. Several features of
the devices 200 are generally similar to the features of the device
100 shown in FIG. 1. For example, each device 200 can include the
conduit 102, the sidewall 120, and the first and second end caps
108 and 110. The device 200 also transfers heat from a heat source
to a heat sink utilizing a vaporization-condensation cycle of the
working fluid 122 generally similar to that described with
reference to FIG. 1. Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the
device 200 can further include the liquid reservoir 124 and the
controller 126 such that the device 200 can operate in the heat
accumulation mode and the heat transfer mode.
[0038] The devices 200 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B can utilize
gravity, rather than the capillary action described in FIG. 1, to
return the liquid phase 122b of the working fluid 122 to the input
portion 104. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the heat inflow is
below the heat output such that gravity can drive the liquid phase
122b down the sidewall 120 to the input portion 104. Thus, as shown
in FIG. 2A, the sidewall 120 need only include an impermeable
membrane 228, rather than a wick structure necessary for capillary
action, to seal the working fluid 122 within the conduit 102. The
impermeable membrane 228 can be made from a polymer such as
polyethylene, a metal or metal alloy such as copper and stainless
steel, and/or other suitable impermeable materials. In other
embodiments, the devices 200 can utilize other sources of
acceleration (e.g., centrifugal force, capillary action) to return
the liquid phase 122b to the input portion 104 such that the
positions of the input and output portions 104 and 106 are not
gravitationally dependent.
[0039] As shown in FIG. 2B, in other embodiments, the sidewall 120
can further include the architectural construct 112. For example,
the architectural construct 112 can be arranged such that the
layers 114 are oriented orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 118 of
the conduit 102 to form thermally conductive passageways that
transfer heat away from the conduit 102. Thus, as the liquid phase
122b flows along the sidewall 120, the architectural construct 112
can draw heat from the liquid phase 122b, along the layers 114, and
away from the sidewall 120 of the device 200. This can increase the
temperature differential between the input and output portions 104
and 106 to increase the rate of heat transfer and/or facilitate the
vaporization-condensation cycle when the temperature gradient would
otherwise be insufficient. In other embodiments, the layers 114 can
be oriented at a different angle with respect to the longitudinal
axis 118 to transfer heat in a different direction. In certain
embodiments, the architectural construct 112 can be positioned
radially outward of the impermeable membrane 228. In other
embodiments, the impermeable membrane 228 can be radially outward
of architectural construct 112 or the architectural construct 112
itself can provide a sufficiently impervious wall to seal the
working fluid 122 within the conduit 102.
[0040] The first and second end caps 108 and 110 shown in FIGS. 2A
and 2B can also include the architectural construct 112. As shown
in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the layers 114 of the architectural constructs
112 are generally aligned with the direction heat input and heat
output to provide thermally conductive passageways that efficiently
transfer heat. Additionally, the architectural constructs 112 of
the first and/or second end caps 108 and 110 can be configured to
apply a capillary pressure for a particular substance entering or
exiting the conduit. For example, the composition, spacing,
dopants, and/or thicknesses of the layers 114 of the architectural
constructs 112 can be modulated to selectively draw a particular
substance between the layers 114. In selected embodiments, the
architectural construct 112 can include a first zone of layers 114
that are configured for a first substance and a second zone of
layers 114 that are configured for a second substance to
selectively remove and/or add two or more desired substances from
the conduit 102.
[0041] In further embodiments, the second end cap 110 can utilize
the sorbtive properties of the architectural constructs 112 to
selectively load a desired constituent of the working fluid 122
between the layers 114. The construction of the architectural
construct 112 can be manipulated to obtain the requisite surface
tension to load almost any element or soluble. For example, the
layers 114 can be preloaded with predetermined dopants or materials
to adjust the surface tension of adsorption along these surfaces.
In certain embodiments, the layers 114 can be preloaded with
CO.sub.2 such that the architectural construct 112 can selectively
mine CO.sub.2 from the working fluid 122 as heat releases through
the second end cap 110. In other embodiments, the layers 114 can be
spaced apart from one another by a predetermined distance, include
a certain coating, and/or otherwise be arranged to selectively load
the desired constituent. In some embodiments, the desired
constituent adsorbs onto the surfaces of individual layers 114,
while in other embodiments the desired constituent absorbs into
zones between the layers 114. In further embodiments, substances
can be purposefully fed into the conduit 102 from the input portion
104 (e.g., through the first end cap 108) such that the added
substance can combine or react with the working fluid 122 to
produce the desired constituent. Thus, the architectural construct
112 at the second end cap 110 can facilitate selective mining of
constituents. Additionally, the architectural construct 112 can
remove impurities and/or other undesirable solubles that may have
entered the conduit 102 and potentially interfere with the
efficiency of the device 200.
[0042] Similarly, in selected embodiments, the architectural
construct 112 at the first end cap 110 can also selectively load
desired compounds and/or elements to prevent them from ever
entering the conduit 102. For example, the architectural construct
112 can filter out paraffins that can impede or otherwise interfere
with the heat transfer of the device 200. In other embodiments, the
devices 200 can include other filters that may be used to prevent
certain materials from entering the conduit 102.
[0043] Moreover, similar to selective loading of compounds and
elements, the architectural construct 112 at the first and second
end caps 108 and 110 may also be configured to absorb radiant
energy of a desired wavelength. For example, the layers 114 can
have a certain thickness, composition, spacing to absorb a
particular wavelength of radiant energy. In selected embodiments,
the architectural construct 112 absorbs radiant energy of a first
wavelength and converts it into radiant energy of a second
wavelength, retransmitting at least some of the absorbed energy.
For example, the layers 114 may be configured to absorb ultraviolet
radiation and convert the ultraviolet radiation into infrared
radiation.
[0044] Additionally, the layers 114 can also catalyze a reaction by
transferring heat to a zone where the reaction is to occur. In
other implementations, the layers 114 catalyze a reaction by
transferring heat away from a zone where a reaction is to occur.
For example, heat may be conductively transferred into the layers
114 (e.g., as discussed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/857,515, filed Aug. 16, 2010, entitled "APPARATUSES AND METHODS
FOR STORING AND/OR FILTERING A SUBSTANCE" which is incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety) to supply heat to an endothermic
reaction within a support tube of the layers 114. In some
implementations, the layers 114 catalyze a reaction by removing a
product of the reaction from the zone where the reaction is to
occur. For example, the layers 114 may absorb alcohol from a
biochemical reaction within a central support tube in which alcohol
is a byproduct, thereby expelling the alcohol on outer edges of the
layers 114, and prolonging the life of a microbe involved in the
biochemical reaction.
[0045] FIG. 3A is schematic cross-sectional view of a thermal
transfer device 300 ("device 300") operating in a first direction
in accordance with a further embodiment of the present technology,
and FIG. 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the device 300
of FIG. 3A operating in a second direction opposite the first
direction. Several features of the device 300 are generally similar
to the features of the devices 100 and 200 shown in FIGS. 1-2B. For
example, the device 300 can include the conduit 102, the first and
second end caps 108 and 110, and the architectural construct 112.
As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the sidewall 120 of the device 300 can
include two architectural constructs 112: a first architectural
construct 112a having layers 114 oriented parallel to the
longitudinal axis 118 of the conduit 102 and a second architectural
construct 112b radially inward from the first architectural
construct 112a and having layers 114 oriented perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis 118. The layers 114 of the first architectural
construct 112a can perform a capillary action, and the layers 114
of the second architectural construct 112b can form thermally
conductive passageways that transfer heat away from the side of the
conduit 102 and thereby increase the temperature differential
between the input and output portions 104 and 106.
[0046] Similar to the device 100 shown in FIG. 1, the device 300
can also operate when the direction of heat flow changes and the
input and output portions 104 and 106 are inverted. As shown in
FIG. 3A, for example, the device 300 can absorb heat at the first
end cap 108 to vaporize the working fluid 122 at the input portion
104, transfer the heat via the vapor phase 122a of the working
fluid 122 through the conduit 102, and expel heat from the second
end cap 110 to condense the working fluid 122 at the output portion
106. As further shown in FIG. 3A, the liquid phase 122b of the
working fluid 122 can move between the layers 114 of the first
architectural construct 112b by capillary action as described above
with reference to FIG. 1. In other embodiments, the sidewall 120
can include a different capillary structure (e.g., cellulose) that
can drive the liquid phase 122b from the output portion 106 to the
input portion 104. As shown in FIG. 3B, the conditions can be
reversed such that heat enters the device 300 proximate to the
second end cap 110 and exits the device 300 proximate to the first
end cap 108. Advantageously, as discussed above, the dual-direction
vapor-condensation cycle of the working fluid 122 accommodates
environments in which the locations of the heat source and the heat
sink reverse.
[0047] FIGS. 4A-4C are schematic views of thermal transfer devices
400A-C, respectively, configured in accordance with embodiments of
the present technology. Referring to FIGS. 4A-C together, several
features of the devices 400A-C are generally similar to the
features of the devices 100, 200, and 300 shown in FIGS. 1-3B. For
example, the devices 400A-C can include the conduit 102, the first
and second end caps 108 and 110, the architectural constructs 112,
and the liquid reservoir 124 (reference numbers not shown in FIGS.
4A and 4B for clarity). The devices 400A-C shown in FIGS. 4A-C
rotate at an angular velocity w, and thus undergo a centrifugal
force. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the devices
400A-B can be spaced apart from an axis of rotation 430. Referring
to FIG. 4A, for example, when the heat influx is radially outward
from the heat output (i.e., the input portion is radially outward
from the output portion), the device 400A can utilize centrifugal
force to return the liquid phase 122b of the working fluid 122
radially outward to the input portion 104. When the heat output is
radially outward from the heat input, such as the embodiment shown
in FIG. 4B, the device 400B must utilize a capillary action or
another force to overcome the centripetal force and drive the
liquid phase 122b radially inward to the input portion.
[0048] As the shown in FIG. 4C, in other embodiments, the axis of
rotation 430 can be spaced along the length of the device 400C. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 4C, heat enters the device 400C at
both the first and second end caps 108 and 110, and heat exits the
device 400C at the axis of rotation 430. As shown in FIG. 4A, this
configuration creates a double vaporization-condensation cycle of
the working fluid 122. For example, the working fluid 122 moves
through the conduit 102 until it reaches the axis of rotation 430.
From there, the device 400C expels from the output portion 106 such
that the working fluid 122 condenses and returns to the input
portion 104 via the centripetal force. In other embodiments, the
input portion 104 and the output portion 106 are inverted such that
the double vaporization-condensation cycle operates in reverse of
that shown in FIG. 4C.
[0049] In operation, the devices 400A-C shown in FIGS. 4A-4C can
effectuate heat transfer in rotating environments, such as
windmills, wheels, and/or other rotating devices. In certain
embodiments, the device 400A-C can be installed in a centrifuge.
The working fluid 122 can be plasma, blood, and/or other bodily
fluids, and the architectural construct 112 can be included at the
second end cap 110 to selectively mine the constituents of bodily
fluid to measure the levels of the constituent and/or aid in
diagnosis. In other embodiments, the devices 400A-C can utilize
other characteristics of the architectural constructs 112 in
conjunction with the rotating environment.
[0050] FIG. 5A is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system 500
("system 500") shown in a representative environment in accordance
with an embodiment of the present technology, and FIG. 5B is an
enlarged operational view of a portion of the system 500 of FIG.
5A. The system 500 can include a solar collector 552 proximate to
the surface of a body of water, such as the ocean, a movable pickup
bell 554 proximate to a gas hydrate deposit 553, and an appendage
556 connecting the solar collector 552 and the bell 554. The
appendage 556 can include a thermal transfer device 550 ("device
550") that has generally similar features as the device 100
described above with reference to FIG. 1. For example, as shown in
FIG. 5B, the device 550 can move the vapor phase 122a of the
working fluid 122 down the conduit 102 and return the liquid phase
122b via capillary action. In other embodiments, the liquid phase
can be returned to the input portion 104 using another suitable
method.
[0051] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, the device 550 can be
utilized to transfer heat from the solar collector 552 to the bell
554 to heat the gas hydrate deposit 553. The heated gas hydrate
deposit 553 can release the gas hydrate (e.g., methane hydrate) up
a conduit 558 to a methane recovery director 560. Accordingly, the
system 500 can harness solar energy, transfer it via the device 550
to the methane hydrate deposit 553, and initiate the release of the
methane hydrate. Further operation of such a methane hydrate
collection system is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/857,228, entitled GAS HYDRATE CONVERSION SYSTEM FOR HARVESTING
HYDROCARBON HYDRATE DEPOSITS, filed Aug. 16, 2010, which is herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
[0052] It is also contemplated that the heating of water that is a
product of the decomposition of gas hydrates may be accomplished
using a system such as that which is disclosed in U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/857,546, filed on Aug. 16, 2010, and
entitled INCREASING THE EFFICIENCY OF SUPPLEMENTED OCEAN THERMAL
ENERGY CONVERSION (SOTEC) SYSTEMS, which is incorporated by
reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein. In this
instance it is optionally intended to evaporate such collected
water for further energy conversion and purification of water
inventories first collected in conjunction with decomposition of
gas hydrates.
[0053] FIG. 6A is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system 600
("system 600") shown in another representative environment in
accordance with an embodiment of the present technology, and FIG.
6B is an enlarged operational view of a portion of the system 600
of FIG. 6A. The system 600 can include a thermal transfer device
650 ("device 650") that absorbs heat from a geothermal formation
660 and expels heat to a factory, building, or other structure 662.
The device 650 can be generally similar to the devices 200
described with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B. For example, as shown
in FIG. 6B, the device 650 can drive the vapor phase 122a of the
working fluid 122 up the conduit 102 and return the liquid phase
122b to a hot interface (e.g., the first end cap 108, not shown)
via a gravitational force. In operation, the device 650 can capture
the thermal energy supplied by the geothermal formation 660 and
transfer it to the structure 662 where it can be used to provide
heat, electricity, and/or otherwise utilize the thermal energy
transferred to the structure 662. In other embodiments, the system
600 can be used to transfer heat away from the structure 662 and/or
other formation. For example, the system 600 can be installed such
that the structure 662 transmits heat to the device 650 and
transfers it to another structure, engine, and/or other location
spaced apart from the structure 662. As another example, the system
600 can be installed such that the device 650 transfers heat away
from permafrost and into a heat sink not negatively affected by
additional heat (e.g., outer space).
[0054] FIG. 7A is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system 700
("system 700") shown in yet another representative environment in
accordance with an embodiment of the present technology, and FIGS.
7B and 7C are enlarged operational views of portions of the system
700 of FIG. 7A. The system 700 can include a thermal transfer
device 750 ("device 750") that includes features generally similar
as the devices 100 and 300 described above with reference to FIGS.
1, 3A, and 3B such that the device 750 can operate the
vaporization-condensation cycle in both directions. For example, as
shown in FIG. 7B, under a first condition, the device 750 can drive
the vapor phase 122a of the working fluid 122 down the conduit 102
and return the liquid phase 122b to the hot interface by capillary
action. As shown in FIG. 7C, under the second condition the device
750 can drive the vapor phase 122a of the working fluid 122 in the
reverse direction, up the conduit 102 and return the liquid phase
122b to the hot interface using capillary action and/or
gravitational force.
[0055] This dual-direction system 700 can be used in environments
with reversing or otherwise changing temperature differentials. As
shown in FIG. 7A, for example, the system 700 can operate under the
first condition during warmer seasons to absorb solar energy via a
solar collector 766. An aquifer 768 positioned at the output
portion 106 of the conduit 102 can function as a natural thermal
accumulator that can store the heat transferred to it from the
system 700. As seasons change, the system 700 can reverse
directions and operate under the second condition to transfer the
heat of the aquifer 768 to transfer the stored heat to a factory
767 and/or other structure or device that can utilize the thermal
energy. Thus, the dual-directional system 700 provides an efficient
way to capture solar energy and store it for a later use (e.g.,
electricity during the winter). Additionally, in certain
embodiments, the portion of the device 750 at the aquifer 768
(e.g., the first or second end caps described above) can include an
architectural construct (e.g., the architectural constructs 112
described above) that can use its capillary and/or sorbtive
properties to selectively filter toxins from aquifer and thereby
rehabilitate a previously hazardous aquifer.
[0056] FIG. 7D is a schematic view of the system 700 shown in FIGS.
7A-7C in another representative environment in accordance with an
embodiment of the present technology. As shown in FIG. 7D, the
device 750 can be installed between a dwelling 780 and an insulated
structure 782 in the surface of the ground. The insulated structure
782 can be filled with sand, gravel, rocks, water, and/or other
suitable materials that can absorb and store heat. In operation,
the system 700 can absorb heat with a solar collector 784, transfer
heat to the insulated structure 782 via the device 750, and
accumulate the heat in the insulated structure 782. The heat stored
in the insulated structure 782 can later be used to provide heat or
other forms of energy to the dwelling 780. Accordingly, as
discussed above, the dual-direction system 700 provides an
efficient way to accumulate heat for later use.
[0057] FIG. 8A is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a
thermal transfer system 800a ("system 800a") in a representative
environment in accordance with a further embodiment of the present
technology. The system 800a can include a thermal transfer device
850 ("device 850") that has features generally similar to the
devices described above. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the
device 850 can include the architectural construct 112 with layers
114 arranged orthogonally to the sidewall 120 to transfer heat away
from the conduit 102. As shown in FIG. 8A, the system 800a can also
include one or more external conduits 890 positioned along at least
a portion of the device 850. The external conduits 890 can include
openings 891 in fluid communication with the environment outside of
the device 850. In some embodiments, the conduits 890 can be made
from the architectural construct 112 and configured to selectively
draw in desired substances from outside the conduit 102. For
example, the architectural construct 112 can use capillary action
to drive a preselected liquid through the external conduits 890
and/or use sorbtive properties to adsorb a preselected constituent
from the liquid. The preselected liquids and/or constituents can be
collected in a harvest located along any portion of the external
conduits 890 (e.g., proximate to either of the end caps). In other
embodiments, the external conduits 890 can be made from other
materials (e.g., plastic tubing, wick structures, etc.) to draw in
chemicals, minerals, and/or other substances from outside the
device 850.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 8A, the system 800a can absorb heat from at
least two heat sources spaced apart from one another and expels
heat toward a single heat sink to generate two
vaporization-condensation cycles within the device 850. In the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8A, for example, the device 850 is
installed between a solar collector 882 and a submarine geothermal
formation 884 and releases heat at a submarine heat sink (e.g.,
proximate to an ocean floor 886). The system 800a thus includes one
vaporization-condensation cycle spaced above the ocean floor 886
and one spaced below the ocean floor 886. Advantageously, the heat
outputs from the two vaporization-condensation cycles can combine
to generate a greater heat output from the system 800a than either
cycle could individually. In selected embodiments, the system 800a
can harvest thermal energy released from the device 850 to power
turbines, another engine, and/or other suitable devices above or
below the water.
[0059] The system 800a can also utilize the increased heat output
of the dual vaporization-condensation cycles to release gas
hydrates (e.g., methane hydrates) from their present state (i.e.,
ice crystals) such as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/857,228, entitled GAS HYDRATE CONVERSION SYSTEM FOR HARVESTING
HYDROCARBON HYDRATE DEPOSITS, filed Aug. 16, 2010. As shown in FIG.
8A, for example, the system 800a can be positioned proximate to a
deposit 888 of gas hydrates at the ocean floor 886 such that the
heat output of the system 800a can increase the local temperature
of the deposit 888, melt the gas hydrate ice crystals, and release
the gas hydrates. The gas hydrates can be drawn through the
external conduits 890 to a harvest where they can be used for fuel,
manufacturing materials, and/or other suitable applications. In
some embodiments, carbon dioxide can drive the released gas hydrate
through the external conduits 890. In other embodiments, the
architectural construct 112 can be configured to selectively draw
up the gas hydrate using capillary action. In other embodiments,
the gas hydrates can be drawn through the external conduits 890 by
a pump and/or other suitable liquid driving device.
[0060] Advantageously, the increased heat output of the system 800a
can increase the local temperature of the deposit 888 faster and
higher than a single vaporization-condensation cycle system to more
efficiently harvest the gas hydrates. Additionally, as shown in
FIG. 8A, the heat transferred outward from the architectural
construct 112 positioned at the sidewall 120 of the conduit 102 can
transfer additional heat to the deposit 888 to further speed the
release of the gas hydrates. The increased heat output of the
system 800a can also increase the local temperature of a greater
area of the deposit 888. For example, in some embodiments, the
system 800a warms several square miles of the deposit 888 at one
time. Therefore, the dual vaporization-condensation cycle increases
the zone of influence that the system 800a can have over the
deposit 888.
[0061] FIG. 8B is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system
800b ("system 800b") in a representative environment in accordance
with an embodiment of the disclosure. The system 800b can include
generally similar features as the system 800a discussed above. For
example, the system 800b can include the device 850 and the
external conduit 890 configured to draw in desired fluids from the
external environment. Additionally, the system 800b can be
installed between two heat sources (e.g., the solar collector 882
and the geothermal formation 884) spaced apart from one another and
a heat sink (e.g., proximate to the ocean floor 886) therebetween
to effectuate two vaporization-condensation cycles that have a
combined heat output. Similar to the system 800a described above,
the system 800b shown in FIG. 8B can transfer heat from the device
850 to a methane hydrate deposit 894. As discussed above, the dual
vaporization-condensation cycle device 850b has a broad zone of
influence over the methane deposit 894 such that the system 800b
can efficiently harvest methane above and/or below the surface of
the water.
[0062] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8B, the system 800b
further includes a barrier film 896a over the zone of influence of
the system 800b and a methane conduit 898 configured to receive
methane from beneath the barrier film 896a. The barrier film 896a
can be made of a non-pervious film, such as polyethylene, that
prevents methane from escaping from the system 800b and releasing
dangerous greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. In selected
embodiments, the barrier film 896 can be configured to distribute
heat released from the device 850 to further increase the zone of
influence of the system 800b. As further shown in FIG. 8B, the
system 800b can also include second barrier film 896b at the
surface of the water to further ensure methane does not escape the
system 800b. As further shown in FIG. 8B, the system 800b can
include an optional permeable film 897 that can permit methane to
pass through it and block carbon dioxide and water such that only
methane flows between the barrier film 896a and the methane
permeable film 897 to the methane conduit 898. Accordingly, the
methane can flow through the methane conduit 898 where the methane
can be harvested for fuel, carbon materials, and/or other suitable
purposes. The water and carbon dioxide blocked by the methane
permeable layer 897 can flow up the external conduit 890 using lift
from the carbon dioxide and/or capillary action. In selected
embodiments, the external conduit 890 can be made from an
architectural construct loaded with carbon dioxide such that the
architectural construct 112 adsorbs carbon dioxide as it travels
through the external conduit 890 and only the water is delivered
from the external conduit 890. In other embodiments, the system
800b can be installed such that the external conduit 890, rather
than the methane conduit 898, draws up the methane hydrate. In
other embodiments, the system 800b can be used to harvest another
gas hydrate and/or other substance released by heating the ocean
floor 886 and/or other geothermal formation.
[0063] In selected embodiments, the system 800b can include an
underwater methane harvest that can be used to drive a turbine 895
used to accelerate the flow of the working fluid 122 through the
device 850. In other embodiments, the methane can be used to drive
other underwater systems. In further embodiments, the system 800
can include a thermal deposit at the heat output of the system 800b
to store heat for subsequent methane hydrate collection and/or
drive systems above and/or below the surface of the water. For
example, the thermal harvest can collect heat released from the
system 800b and transport it via conduits to portions of the
methane deposit 894 spaced beyond the zone of influence of the
system 800b and/or other methane deposits.
[0064] As further shown in FIG. 8B, the system 800b can further
include an oxygen conduit 899 and an engine 801. The oxygen conduit
899 can drive oxygen from above the water or another oxygen source
and deliver it to the engine 801 installed below the barrier layer
896a. The engine 803 can burn the oxygen delivered by the oxygen
conduit 899 and the hydrogen produced as the system 800b (i.e.,
CH.sub.4+HEAT.fwdarw.C+2H.sub.2) to provide hot steam to the
methane deposit 894. The additional heat from the engine 803 can
liberate additional methane. The engine 801 can be any suitable
engine that delivers hot steam, such as a turbine.
[0065] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of a thermal transfer
system 900 ("system 900") in an additional representative
environment in accordance with an embodiment of the present
technology, and. FIG. 9B is an enlarged view of detail 9B of FIG.
9A. The system 900 can include a thermal transfer device 950
("device 950") that includes features generally similar to the
devices described above. The system 900 shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B is
installed in a microscopic environment, rather than the macroscopic
systems shown in FIGS. 5A-8B, for use as a sensor or other type of
monitor as described in U.S. patent application entitled METHODS,
DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS FOR DETECTING PROPERTIES OF TARGET SAMPLES
(Attorney Docket No. 69545-8801US1), filed Feb. 14, 2011,
concurrently herewith and incorporated by reference in its
entirety. In other embodiments, the system 900 can be used for
other microscopic applications that benefit from heat transfer.
[0066] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B together, a
tube 903 and a fitting 905 are sealed together. For example, the
tube 903 and the fitting 905 are sealed together by tightening a
nut 907. One or more devices 950 can be positioned between a tube
903 and the fitting 907 to test for incipient leaks of a fluid 909
running through the tube 903. For example, the devices 950 can
sense the presence of the fluid 909 and/or the composition of the
fluid 909. In selected embodiments, the device 950 can include a
sensor positioned within an architectural construct (e.g., the
architectural construct 112 described above). The architectural
construct can be configured to selectively adsorb a predetermined
constituent of the fluid 909 such that the sensor can determine the
presence and/or trend in the presence of the predetermined
constituent. In other embodiments, the architectural construct can
be configured to selectively transfer a target sample of the fluid
909 or a constituent thereof to a reservoir (e.g., the liquid
reservoir 124 described above) that includes a sensor to monitor or
otherwise test the sample. In further embodiments, the devices 950
can be otherwise positioned to monitor other aspects of the system
900.
[0067] FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a thermal transfer device
1000 configured in accordance with a further embodiment of the
present technology. The device 1000 can include features and
functions generally similar to the devices described above.
However, the device 1000 shown in FIG. 10 has a different aspect
ratio than the devices shown above. More specifically, the first
and second end caps 108 and 110 and the sidewall 120 are closer in
length such that the device 1000 forms a wide conduit 102. Such an
aspect ratio is well suited for transferring heat through a room.
For example, the device 1000 can be used for dry cleaning. Garments
can be positioned within the conduit 102, and the vapor phase 122a
of the working fluid 122 (e.g., CO.sub.2) can capture dirt, oils,
and other filth from the garments as it moves through the conduit
102. The filth can be filtered from the device 1000 at the second
end cap 110 with the architectural construct 112 and/or another
suitable filter. Thus, rather than conventional dry cleaning
methods that use toxic chemicals to clean clothes, the heat
transfer provided by the device can be utilized to clean clothes.
In other embodiments, the device 1000 can be used for other
suitable heat transfer methods and/or the aspect ratio of the
device 1000 can have other suitable variations.
[0068] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a thermal transfer system
1100 ("system 1100") shown in a representative environment in
accordance with yet another embodiment of the present technology.
The system 1100 shown in FIG. 11 can include a thermal transfer
device 1150 ("device 1150") that has features generally similar to
the thermal transfer devices described above. For example, the
device 1150 can transfer heat utilizing a vaporization-condensation
cycle of the working fluid 122 within the conduit 102. As shown in
FIG. 11, the system 1100 can further include a solar collector 1121
configured to concentrate heat and deliver it to a first pipe 1123.
A pump 1125 can be operably coupled to the first pipe 1123 to drive
a fluid (e.g., the working fluid 122) within the first pipe 1123 to
a first heat exchanger 1127 proximate to the input portion 104 of
the device 1150. The first heat exchanger 127 can heat and vaporize
the fluid within the first pipe 1123 and thereby deliver heat to
the input portion 104 of the device 1150. As shown in FIG. 11, the
working fluid 122 can vaporize at the input portion 104 and
circulate through the device 1150 to release heat at the output
portion 106. The device 1150 can utilize the released heat for
domestic water heating, crop drying, and other suitable
applications.
[0069] In selected embodiments, the working fluid 122 flows through
the first pipe 1121 such that the device 1150 can apply capillary
pressure to the working fluid 122 using the architectural construct
112 such that the working fluid 122 is drawn into the conduit 102.
In other embodiments, the vaporized fluid emitted by the heat
exchanger 1127 can be filtered by the architectural construct 112
to selectively admit one or more desired substances (e.g.,
chemicals that catalyze with the working fluid 122) into the
conduit 102.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 11, the system 1100 can further include a
second heat source 1129 (i.e., separate from the solar collector
1121) that can be used in conjunction with the solar collector 1121
to increase the heat influx to the device 1150 and/or to replace
the solar collector 1121 when solar heating is unavailable or not
desired. The second heat source 1129 can be a wind generator as
shown in FIG. 11, resistive or inductive heating by grid power,
and/or other suitable heat transmitting devices. In the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 11, the second heat source 1129 is coupled to a
second pipe 1133 and a second heat exchanger 1131 that transfer
heat to the input portion 104 of the device 1150. In other
embodiments, the second heat source 1129 is connected to the first
pipe 1121 and the first heat exchanger 1123.
[0071] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 11, the system 1100 can
further include a supplementary processing portion 1135 positioned
proximate to the input portion 104 such that heat is transmitted
from the first and/or second heat exchangers 1127 and 1131 to the
supplementary processing portion 1135. The supplementary processing
portion 1135 can be used to provide additional manufacturing and/or
services to the system 1100. For example, the supplementary
processing portion 1135 can be used for drying fruit, dehydrating
maple syrup to provide surplus water, and/or removing preselected
substances such as flavinoids by the architectural construct
112.
[0072] The present application incorporates by reference in its
entirety the subject matter of the following applications: U.S.
patent application, entitled METHODS AND APPARATUSES FOR DETECTION
OF PROPERTIES OF FLUID CONVEYANCE SYSTEMS (Attorney Docket No.
69545-8801US1); U.S. patent application, entitled ARCHITECTURAL
CONSTRUCT HAVING FOR EXAMPLE A PLURALITY OF ARCHITECTURAL CRYSTALS
(Attorney Docket No. 69545-8701US); U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 12/857,546, filed on Aug. 16, 2010, and entitled INCREASING THE
EFFICIENCY OF SUPPLEMENTED OCEAN THERMAL ENERGY CONVERSION (SOTEC)
SYSTEMS; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/857,228, entitled GAS
HYDRATE CONVERSION SYSTEM FOR HARVESTING HYDROCARBON HYDRATE
DEPOSITS, filed Aug. 16, 2010, all of which are herein incorporated
by reference in their entirety.
[0073] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific
embodiments of the disclosure have been described herein for
purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be
made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the invention.
For example, any of the thermal transfer devices discussed above
can have a different aspect ratio (e.g., between the sidewall 120
and the first and second end caps 108 and 110) than those shown in
FIGS. 1-11 to accommodate differing applications. Certain aspects
of the new technology described in the context of particular
embodiments may be combined or eliminated in other embodiments. For
example, the thermal transfer devices shown in FIGS. 3A-4C and
6A-10 can include the liquid reservoir and/or controller described
with reference to FIG. 1. Additionally, while advantages associated
with certain embodiments of the new technology have been described
in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments may also
exhibit such advantages, but not all of the embodiments within the
scope of the technology necessarily exhibit such advantages.
Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompass
other embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.
Moreover, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout
the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising,"
and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed
to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in a sense of
"including, but not limited to." Words using the singular or plural
number also include the plural or singular number, respectively.
When the claims use the word "or" in reference to a list of two or
more items, that word covers all of the following interpretations
of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the
list, and any combination of the items in the list.
[0074] Features of the various embodiments described above can be
combined to provide further embodiments. All of the U.S. patents,
U.S. patent application publications, U.S. patent applications,
foreign patents, foreign patent applications and non-patent
publications referred to in this specification and/or listed in the
Application Data Sheet are incorporated herein by reference, in
their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, if
necessary, to employ fuel injectors and ignition devices with
various configurations, and concepts of the various patents,
applications, and publications to provide yet further embodiments
of the disclosure.
[0075] These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in
light of the above-detailed description. In general, in the
following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit
the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed in the
specification and the claims, but should be construed to include
all systems and methods that operate in accordance with the claims.
Accordingly, the invention is not limited by the disclosure, but
instead its scope is to be determined broadly by the following
claims.
[0076] To the extent not previously incorporated herein by
reference, the present application incorporates by reference in
their entirety the subject matter of each of the following
materials: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/857,553, filed on
Aug. 16, 2010 and titled SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH
INTEGRATED PRODUCTION OF RENEWABLE ENERGY, MATERIALS RESOURCES, AND
NUTRIENT REGIMES; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/857,553,
filed on Aug. 16, 2010 and titled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR
SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH INTEGRATED FULL SPECTRUM
PRODUCTION OF RENEWABLE ENERGY; U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/857,554, filed on Aug. 16, 2010 and titled SYSTEMS AND METHODS
FOR SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH INTEGRATED FULL
SPECTRUM PRODUCTION OF RENEWABLE MATERIAL RESOURCES USING SOLAR
THERMAL; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/857,502, filed on Aug.
16, 2010 and titled ENERGY SYSTEM FOR DWELLING SUPPORT; Attorney
Docket No. 69545-8505.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled
DELIVERY SYSTEMS WITH IN-LINE SELECTIVE EXTRACTION DEVICES AND
ASSOCIATED METHODS OF OPERATION; U.S. Patent Application No.
61/401,699, filed on Aug. 16, 2010 and titled COMPREHENSIVE COST
MODELING OF AUTOGENOUS SYSTEMS AND PROCESSES FOR THE PRODUCTION OF
ENERGY, MATERIAL RESOURCES AND NUTRIENT REGIMES; Attorney Docket
No. 69545-8601.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled CHEMICAL
PROCESSES AND REACTORS FOR EFFICIENTLY PRODUCING HYDROGEN FUELS AND
STRUCTURAL MATERIALS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS; Attorney
Docket No. 69545-8602.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled
REACTOR VESSELS WITH TRANSMISSIVE SURFACES FOR PRODUCING
HYDROGEN-BASED FUELS AND STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS, AND ASSOCIATED
SYSTEMS AND METHODS; Attorney Docket No. 69545-8603.US00, filed on
Feb. 14, 2011 and titled CHEMICAL REACTORS WITH RE-RADIATING
SURFACES AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS; Attorney Docket No.
69545-8605.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled CHEMICAL
REACTORS WITH ANNULARLY POSITIONED DELIVERY AND REMOVAL DEVICES,
AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS; Attorney Docket No.
69545-8606.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled REACTORS FOR
CONDUCTING THERMOCHEMICAL PROCESSES WITH SOLAR HEAT INPUT, AND
ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS; Attorney Docket No.
69545-8608.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled INDUCTION FOR
THERMOCHEMICAL PROCESS, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS;
Attorney Docket No. 69545-8611.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and
titled COUPLED THERMOCHEMICAL REACTORS AND ENGINES, AND ASSOCIATED
SYSTEMS AND METHODS; U.S. Patent Application No. 61/385,508, filed
on Sep. 22, 2010 and titled REDUCING AND HARVESTING DRAG ENERGY ON
MOBILE ENGINES USING THERMAL CHEMICAL REGENERATION; Attorney Docket
No. 69545-8616.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled REACTOR
VESSELS WITH PRESSURE AND HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES FOR PRODUCING
HYDROGEN-BASED FUELS AND STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS, AND ASSOCIATED
SYSTEMS AND METHODS; Attorney Docket No. 69545-8701.US00, filed on
Feb. 14, 2011 and titled ARCHITECTURAL CONSTRUCT HAVING FOR EXAMPLE
A PLURALITY OF ARCHITECTURAL CRYSTALS; U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 12/806,634, filed on Aug. 16, 2010 and titled METHODS AND
APPARATUSES FOR DETECTION OF PROPERTIES OF FLUID CONVEYANCE
SYSTEMS; Attorney Docket No. 69545-8801.US01, filed on Feb. 14,
2011 and titled METHODS, DEVICES, AND SYSTEMS FOR DETECTING
PROPERTIES OF TARGET SAMPLES; Attorney Docket No. 69545-9002.US00,
filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING BIOMASS
INTO HYDROCARBONS, ALCOHOL VAPORS, HYDROGEN, CARBON, ETC.; Attorney
Docket No. 69545-9004.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled
CARBON RECYCLING AND REINVESTMENT USING THERMOCHEMICAL
REGENERATION; Attorney Docket No. 69545-9006.US00, filed on Feb.
14, 2011 and titled OXYGENATED FUEL; U.S. Patent Application No.
61/237,419, filed on Aug. 27, 2009 and titled CARBON SEQUESTRATION;
U.S. Patent Application No. 61/237,425, filed on Aug. 27, 2009 and
titled OXYGENATED FUEL PRODUCTION; Attorney Docket No.
69545-9102.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled MULTI-PURPOSE
RENEWABLE FUEL FOR ISOLATING CONTAMINANTS AND STORING ENERGY; U.S.
Patent Application No. 61/421,189, filed on Dec. 8, 2010 and titled
LIQUID FUELS FROM HYDROGEN, OXIDES OF CARBON, AND/OR NITROGEN; AND
PRODUCTION OF CARBON FOR MANUFACTURING DURABLE GOODS; and Attorney
Docket No. 69545-9105.US00, filed on Feb. 14, 2011 and titled
ENGINEERED FUEL STORAGE, RESPECIATION AND TRANSPORT.
* * * * *