U.S. patent application number 15/923259 was filed with the patent office on 2018-09-20 for solar heating for refrigeration and fluid heating devices.
The applicant listed for this patent is John Abraham, Andrew Gikling, Richard Pakonen, Brian Plourde, Douglas Plourde. Invention is credited to John Abraham, Andrew Gikling, Richard Pakonen, Brian Plourde, Douglas Plourde.
Application Number | 20180266712 15/923259 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61911686 |
Filed Date | 2018-09-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180266712 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Plourde; Brian ; et
al. |
September 20, 2018 |
SOLAR HEATING FOR REFRIGERATION AND FLUID HEATING DEVICES
Abstract
A fluid-based system for use in heating and/or cooling. In
particular, the system may have a fluid heating device, which may
be a solar fluid heating device, configured to heat a fluid. Heat
from the heated fluid may be transferred to one or more cooling
subsystems or heating subsystems. A cooling subsystem may be an
absorption cooling subsystem, for example, wherein heat may cause
phase change of a refrigerant. A heating subsystem may include a
storage tank through which heated fluid may be circulated to heat
the storage tank. A system of the present disclosure may include
multiple cooling and/or heating subsystems for cooling and or
heating a variety of different environments, objects, or
materials.
Inventors: |
Plourde; Brian; (St. Paul,
MN) ; Gikling; Andrew; (St. Paul, MN) ;
Abraham; John; (Minneapolis, MN) ; Pakonen;
Richard; (Birchwood, MN) ; Plourde; Douglas;
(Somerset, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Plourde; Brian
Gikling; Andrew
Abraham; John
Pakonen; Richard
Plourde; Douglas |
St. Paul
St. Paul
Minneapolis
Birchwood
Somerset |
MN
MN
MN
MN
WI |
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
61911686 |
Appl. No.: |
15/923259 |
Filed: |
March 16, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62472030 |
Mar 16, 2017 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24D 19/1051 20130101;
F24S 30/452 20180501; F24S 20/40 20180501; F28D 20/0034 20130101;
Y02E 70/30 20130101; F24D 17/0063 20130101; F24D 2200/126 20130101;
F24S 90/00 20180501; F24S 23/74 20180501; Y02E 60/14 20130101; F24F
2005/0067 20130101; Y02E 10/40 20130101; Y02A 30/27 20180101; Y02A
30/272 20180101; Y02B 10/20 20130101; Y02B 10/70 20130101; F24D
17/0021 20130101; F24F 5/0046 20130101; F24D 11/003 20130101; F25B
27/002 20130101; F24D 2200/14 20130101; Y02E 10/47 20130101; F24S
23/70 20180501; F24F 2005/0064 20130101; F24D 3/005 20130101; Y02B
30/62 20130101; F25B 27/007 20130101; F24D 2200/02 20130101; F28D
2020/0078 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F24F 5/00 20060101
F24F005/00; F25B 27/00 20060101 F25B027/00; F24D 3/00 20060101
F24D003/00 |
Claims
1. A thermal fluid system comprising: a fluid heating device
configured to heat a fluid circulated therethrough; and at least
one of: a heating subsystem configured to heat an enclosure or
material by circulation of heated fluid from the fluid heating
device through the heating subsystem; and a cooling subsystem
configured to provide refrigeration, wherein at least a portion of
the cooling subsystem is powered by heated fluid from the fluid
heating device;
2. The thermal fluid system of claim 1, wherein the fluid heating
device is a solar fluid heating device comprising: a solar
collection system comprising: a reflective surface configured to
focus sunlight on a focal axis; and a fluid heating tube arranged
along the focal axis; a fluid control system comprising one or more
valves for directing fluid through the solar collection system; a
support structure arranged and configured to support the solar
collection system and at least a portion of the fluid control
system; and a tracking system configured for manipulating the
support structure.
3. The thermal fluid system of claim 1, further comprising a
control valve for directing heated fluid to the at least one of a
heating subsystem and a cooling subsystem.
4. The thermal fluid system of claim 1, wherein the cooling
subsystem comprises an absorption cooling system.
5. The thermal fluid system of claim 4, wherein the cooling
subsystem comprises a refrigerant-absorbent fluid mixture, and a
generator configured for separating the refrigerant from the
absorbent.
6. The thermal fluid system of claim 5, wherein the generator
comprises the fluid heating device, and wherein fluid circulated
through the fluid heating device comprises the
refrigerant-absorbent fluid mixture.
7. The thermal fluid system of claim 1, wherein the heating
subsystem comprises a storage tank.
8. The thermal fluid system of claim 7, wherein the heating
subsystem comprises a pipe configured to carry heated fluid from
the fluid heating device through the storage tank to heat the
interior of the storage tank.
9. The thermal fluid system of claim 1, further comprising a solar
electric device configured to collect and store solar energy.
10. The thermal fluid system of claim 9, further comprising an
electric heating device operable by stored solar energy.
11. A control system for a thermal fluid heating system, the
control system comprising: a controller configured to direct flow
of a heated fluid from a fluid heating device to at least one
thermal subsystem, the at least one thermal subsystem comprising at
least one of: a heating subsystem configured to heat an enclosure
or material by circulation of the heated fluid from the fluid
heating device through the heating subsystem; and a cooling
subsystem configured to provide refrigeration, wherein at least a
portion of the cooling subsystem is powered by the heated fluid
from the fluid heating device; a temperature sensor communicably
coupled to the controller over a network and arranged in one of the
heating subsystem and the cooling subsystem; and a control valve
communicably coupled to the controller over a network, the control
valve operable by the controller and configured to control the flow
of fluid to one of the heating subsystem and the cooling
subsystem.
12. The control system of claim 12, wherein the controller is
further configured to: receive a user input regarding a desired
temperature for at least one of the heating subsystem and the
cooling subsystem; and based on the user input and a temperature
sensed by the temperature sensor, operate the control valve.
13. The control system of claim 12, wherein the controller is
configured to direct flow the heated fluid from the fluid heating
device to at least two thermal subsystems, and wherein upon an
interruption of power to the fluid heating device, the controller
is further configured to prioritize a first thermal subsystem.
14. The control system of claim 11, further comprising a database
storing sensed temperature data and user inputs.
15. The control system of claim 11, further comprising a user
device communicably coupled to the controller over a network, the
user device configured to transmit user inputs to the
controller.
16. The control system of claim 11, further comprising at least one
additional sensor selected from the group consisting of: a
temperature sensor, a flow sensor, and a pressure sensor.
17. The control system of claim 16, wherein the controller is
further configured to operate the control valve based upon at least
one of sensed temperature data, flow data, and pressure data.
18. A method of heating and cooling, the method comprising:
directing fluid through a fluid heating device to heat the fluid;
and operating a control valve to direct the heated fluid to at
least one of: a heating subsystem configured to heat an enclosure
or material by circulation of the heated fluid from the fluid
heating device through the heating subsystem; and a cooling
subsystem configured to provide refrigeration, wherein at least a
portion of the cooling subsystem is powered by the heated fluid
from the fluid heating device;
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising receiving a user
input regarding a desired temperature for the at least one of a
heating subsystem and a cooling subsystem.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the fluid heating device is a
solar fluid heating device comprising: a solar collection system
comprising: a reflective surface configured to focus sunlight on a
focal axis; and a fluid heating tube arranged along the focal axis;
a fluid control system comprising one or more valves for directing
fluid through the solar collection system; a support structure
arranged and configured to support the solar collection system and
at least a portion of the fluid control system; and a tracking
system configured for manipulating the support structure.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present disclosure claims priority to Provisional
Application No. 62/472,030, entitled Solar Heating for
Refrigeration and Fluid heating devices, and filed Mar. 16, 2017,
the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in
its entirety.
[0002] In addition, the present application is related to U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/085,699 filed on Dec. 1, 2014,
entitled Mathematical Model for the Inactivation of Biological
Contaminants using Solar Heating; U.S. Provisional Application No.
62/259,748, filed on Nov. 25, 2015, entitled Fluid Heating System;
U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 14/954,091, filed Nov.
30, 2015, entitled Dual Axis Tracking Device; U.S. Non-Provisional
application Ser. No. 14/954,292, filed Nov. 30, 2015, entitled
Fluid Heating System; U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No.
14/954,318, filed Nov. 30, 2015, entitled Control Valve Assembly
for Fluid Heating System; U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No.
14/954,383, filed Nov. 30, 2015, entitled Method of Calculating
Pathogen Inactivation for a Fluid Heating System; and U.S.
Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 15/818,052, filed Nov. 20,
2017, entitled Digital Fluid Heating System, the contents of each
of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present disclosure relates to thermal heating and
cooling systems and methods and associated mechanisms and devices.
Particularly, the present application relates to fluid-based
thermal heating and cooling systems and methods for providing heat
and/or cooling. More particularly, the present application relates
to thermal heating and cooling systems and methods operated by
selected circulation of a heated fluid.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The background description provided herein is for the
purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work
of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in
this background section, as well as aspects of the description that
may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are
neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the
present disclosure.
[0005] In general, an energy source is needed to produce heat or
refrigeration. Electrical energy sources may be relatively
expensive and/or inaccessible in rural or remote areas. Other
energy sources such as coal, wood, natural gas, propane, and other
fuels may also be relatively costly to implement and/or may produce
undesirable or hazardous emissions. Some energy sources may
additionally be relatively inefficient and/or may produce
relatively inconsistent heating or cooling.
[0006] Additionally, there are many situations where heating of
fluids (liquids or gases) is beneficial. Heating liquid water can
be used for pasteurization, cooking, creating steam for power
generation, heating, manufacturing, providing indoor comfort, or
other applications.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic
understanding of such embodiments. This summary is not an extensive
overview of all contemplated embodiments, and is intended to
neither identify key or critical elements of all embodiments, nor
delineate the scope of any or all embodiments.
[0008] The present disclosure, in one or more embodiments, relates
to a thermal fluid system having a fluid heating device configured
to heat a fluid circulating therethrough. The thermal fluid system
may additionally have a heating subsystem configured to provide
heat by circulation of heated fluid from the fluid heating device
therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, the thermal fluid
system may have a cooling subsystem configured to provide
refrigeration, wherein at least a portion of the cooling subsystem
is powered by heated fluid from the fluid heating device. In some
embodiments, the fluid heating device may be a solar fluid heating
device. The system may additionally have a control valve for
directing heated fluid to the heating subsystem and/or cooling
subsystem. The cooling subsystem may include an absorption system.
Moreover, the cooling subsystem may have a refrigerant-absorbent
fluid mixture, and a generator configured for separating the
refrigerant from the absorbent. The generator may include the fluid
heating device in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the fluid
heated by the fluid heating device may include one or more oils,
one or more brine mixtures (such as a salt water mixture), glycol,
liquid ammonia, and/or other thermal fluids. In some embodiments, a
thermal fluid may be a relatively environmentally safe or
environmentally conscious fluid. The heating subsystem may include
a storage tank, and a pipe configured to carry heated fluid from
the fluid heating device through the storage tank to heat the
interior of the storage tank. In some embodiments, the thermal
fluid system may have a solar electric device for collecting and/or
storing solar energy. For example, solar energy may be collected
and stored in one or more batteries. Stored solar electric energy
may be used to power an additional heating device, such as a
resistance heater, and/or other electrical components of the
system.
[0009] The present disclosure, in one or more embodiments,
additionally relates to a control system for a thermal fluid
heating system. The control system may have a controller configured
to direct flow of a heated fluid from a fluid heating device to one
or more thermal subsystems, which may include one or more heating
subsystems and/or one or more cooling subsystem. The heating
subsystem may be configured to provide heat by circulation of the
heated fluid from the fluid heating device through the heating
subsystem. The cooling subsystem may be configured to provide
refrigeration, wherein at least a portion of the cooling subsystem
is powered by the heated fluid from the fluid heating device. The
control system may additionally have a temperature sensor
communicably coupled to the controller over a network and arranged
in the heating subsystem or the cooling subsystem. The control
system may additionally have a control valve communicably coupled
to the controller over a network, the control valve operable by the
controller and configured to control the flow of fluid to the
heating subsystem or the cooling subsystem. In some embodiments,
the controller may additionally be configured to receive a user
input regarding a desired temperature for the heating subsystem
and/or cooling subsystem. The controller may be configured to
operate the control valve based on the user input and a temperature
sensed by the temperature sensor. The control system may have a
database storing sensed temperature data and user inputs in some
embodiments. The control system may include a user device
communicably coupled to the controller over a network and
configured to transmit user inputs to the controller. The control
system may include at least one additional sensor, which may be a
temperature sensor, flow sensor, or a pressure sensor. Moreover,
the controller may be configured to operate the control valve based
on sensed temperature data, flow data, and/or pressure data. In
some embodiments, the controller may be configured to direct flow
of a heated fluid to two or more thermal subsystems. Moreover, upon
an interruption of power to the fluid heating device, the
controller may be configured to prioritize a first thermal
subsystem.
[0010] The present disclosure, in one or more embodiments,
additionally relates to a method of heating and cooling. The method
may include directing fluid through a fluid heating device to heat
the fluid, and operating a control valve to direct the heated fluid
to a heating subsystem and/or a cooling subsystem. The heating
subsystem may provide heat by circulation of the heated fluid from
the heating device through the heating subsystem. The cooling
subsystem may be configured to provide refrigeration, wherein at
least a portion of the cooling subsystem is powered by the heated
fluid from the fluid heating device. In some embodiments, the
method may include receiving a user input regarding a desired
temperature for the heating subsystem and/or cooling subsystem. In
some embodiments, the fluid heating device may be a solar fluid
heating device.
[0011] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other
embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which
shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. As
will be realized, the various embodiments of the present disclosure
are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are
to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter that is
regarded as forming the various embodiments of the present
disclosure, it is believed that the invention will be better
understood from the following description taken in conjunction with
the accompanying Figures, in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of a thermal system of the
present disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a fluid heating device of
the present disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0015] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram of a compression cooling
subsystem of the present disclosure, according to one or more
embodiments.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram of a thermal system having a
fluid heating device and cooling subsystem of the present
disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram of another thermal system
having a fluid heating device and cooling subsystem of the present
disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram of a thermal system having a
fluid heating device and a heating subsystem of the present
disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0019] FIG. 7 is a side view of a heated fluid tank of the present
disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0020] FIG. 8 is an internal side view of a heated fluid tank of
the present disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0021] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram of a thermal system having a
fluid heating device, heating subsystem, and cooling subsystem of
the present disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0022] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram of another thermal system
having a fluid heating device, heating subsystem, and cooling
subsystem of the present disclosure, according to one or more
embodiments.
[0023] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram of a cooling subsystem of
the present disclosure, according to one or more embodiments.
[0024] FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of a thermal control system
of the present disclosure, according to one or more
embodiments.
[0025] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram of a thermal system of the
present disclosure, having a fluid heating device and a solar
electric device, according to one or more embodiments.
[0026] FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of another thermal system of
the present disclosure, having a fluid heating device and a solar
electric device, according to one or more embodiments.
[0027] FIG. 15 is a conceptual diagram of a thermal system of the
present disclosure, having a fluid heating device and three solar
electric devices, according to one or more embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] The present disclosure, in some embodiments, relates to a
fluid-based system for use in heating and/or cooling. In
particular, the system may have a fluid heating device, which may
be a solar fluid heating device, such as a solar collector
configured to heat a fluid. Heat from the heated fluid may be
transferred to one or more cooling subsystems or heating
subsystems. A cooling subsystem may be an absorbent refrigeration
subsystem, for example, wherein heat may cause phase change of a
refrigerant. A heating subsystem may include a storage tank through
which heated fluid may be circulated to heat the storage tank. Some
examples of cooling subsystems include, but are not limited to, an
air conditioning system for a dwelling, or a food storage
refrigerator or freezer. Some examples of a heating subsystem may
include, but are not limited to, a heating system for a dwelling, a
hot water tank for use in a dwelling, or a radiant floor heating
system. A system of the present disclosure may include multiple
cooling and/or heating subsystems for cooling and or heating a
variety of different environments, objects, or materials.
[0029] The systems, device, and mechanisms described herein may
allow for thermal heating and/or refrigeration in remote areas of
the world or in conditions of power loss, catastrophic event, war,
or other situations where other energy sources may be relatively
unavailable or inaccessible. Systems of the present disclosure may
provide such heating and/or refrigeration automatically, with
little to no human interaction and little to no reliance on public
utilities, networks, or other utility, electrical, information, or
other infrastructure. However, in some embodiments, systems may be
equipped with an onboard computer allowing for user communication
and interaction on an as-needed and/or as-desired basis. For
example, a system may be configured for wireless or wired
connection to a user's smartphone or computer using wireless
connections and allowing for user interaction with the system. The
wireless connection may enable access, monitoring, calibration of
control algorithms, and/or management of the system remotely.
Consequently, the operation and management of a system of the
present disclosure may have reduced costs compared to other systems
requiring regular on site interaction with users.
[0030] Turning now to FIG. 1, a heating and cooling system 100 of
the present disclosure is shown, according to one or more
embodiments. As shown, the system 100 may generally have a fluid
heating device 102 configured for heating one or more fluids. The
system 100 may additionally have a refrigeration or cooling
subsystem 104 configured for cooling an environment, object, or
material. The system 100 may additionally have a heating subsystem
106, which may be configured for heating an environment, object, or
material. A fluid may enter the fluid heating device 102 for
heating. After being heated by the fluid heating device 102, the
heated fluid may be directed to the cooling subsystem 104 for
generating a cooling or refrigeration process, such as an
absorption cooling or compression cooling process. Additionally or
alternatively, heated fluid from the fluid heating device 102 may
be directed to the heating subsystem 106 for transferring heat to
an area, object, or material. For example, the heating subsystem
106 may include a fluid storage tank, such as a hot water tank,
which may be heated by circulation of the heated fluid around,
beneath, or through the storage tank. In other embodiments, the
heated fluid may be stored in the tank for later or ongoing use. In
some embodiments, heated fluid directed to the cooling 104 and/or
heating 106 subsystems may be recirculated back to the fluid
heating device 102 to be reheated.
[0031] In some embodiments, the fluid heating device 102 may be a
solar-based fluid heating device, configured to direct solar energy
to increase the temperature of a fluid. FIG. 2 shows one embodiment
of a solar-based fluid heating device 200. The fluid heating device
200 may generally have a solar collection system 202 with an
elongate parabolic mirror 203 or other reflective element
configured to focus sunlight on a focal axis. A fluid heating tube
205 may be arranged along the mirror 203 and along the focal axis.
Using a fluid control system 204, water or another fluid may be
controllably passed through the heating tube 205 at a calibrated
rate, dependent upon time and temperature, to heat the fluid. Fluid
flow may be controlled by one or more valves, which may be
thermally or digitally actuated valves in some embodiments. A
support structure 206 may support the solar collection system 202
and/or portions of the fluid control system 204. The fluid heating
device 200 may additionally have a solar tracking system 208
configured for manipulating the support structure 206, or portions
thereof, thereby adjusting the position and orientation of the
solar collection system 202 and one or more portions of the fluid
control system 204 in a manner that allows for efficient collection
of solar energy and efficient heating of fluid. In some
embodiments, the tracking system 208 may be a dual-axis tracking
system. In some embodiments, the fluid heating device 200 may be
similar to that described in U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser.
No. 15/818,052, entitled Digital Fluid Heating System, previously
incorporated by reference herein, or may include components
described in, or similar to components described in, that
application.
[0032] The fluid heating device 200 may have one or more
controllers, processors, or other computer components controlling
fluid treating operations and solar tracking operations. The one or
more controllers or other computer components may be configured to
track movement of the sun or other object across the sky, and use
one or more motors and/or actuators to direct the solar collection
system 202 toward the position of the sun in order to collect and
direct solar energy toward the fluid heating tube 205.
Additionally, the one or more controllers or other computer
components may be configured to direct flow of the fluid through
the fluid heating tube 205 as needed to heat the fluid to a desired
or suitable temperature. As described in U.S. Non-Provisional
application Ser. No. 15/818,052, previously incorporated by
reference herein, the fluid heating device may operate relatively
autonomously in some embodiments, using solar energy to heat fluid,
and storing heated fluid, as needed. In some embodiments, the fluid
heating device may operate based upon user input.
[0033] The fluid heating device 200 may operate to heat any
suitable fluid. For example, where the fluid may ultimately be used
for drinking, cooking, or personal use, the fluid heating device
may operate to heat water. In other embodiments, a fluid may be
selected based upon a variety of properties, such as boiling
temperature, viscosity, and ability to retain or transfer heat. In
some embodiments, a fluid with a relatively high boiling
temperature may be heated using the fluid heating device, so as to
avoid undesired vaporization of the fluid. In some embodiments, the
fluid may be or include one or more oils, one or more brine
mixtures (such as a salt water mixture), glycol, liquid ammonia,
and/or other thermal fluids. In some embodiments, a thermal fluid
may be a relatively environmentally safe or environmentally
conscious fluid. The fluid heating device 200 may have a storage
container for storing the fluid when not actively being heated or
circulated for use.
[0034] While a solar-based fluid heating device is shown and
described, in other embodiments, other fluid heating devices using
other energy sources may be used. For example, other fluid heating
devices may use electric power, propane, wood, wind, geothermal, or
other energy sources.
[0035] Referring back to FIG. 1, the cooling subsystem 104 may be,
for example, an absorption refrigeration system or other
fluid-based refrigeration system. However, additionally or
alternatively, other cooling or refrigeration systems may be used.
In general, the cooling subsystem 104, or a portion thereof, may be
operable using a heat source, such as using heated fluid circulated
to the cooling subsystem from the fluid heating device 102. In some
embodiments, the cooling subsystem 104 may be or include a
compression cooling system, where for example, an energy source is
available to power a compressor. One example of a compression
cooling system 300 is shown in FIG. 3. The system 300 may include a
compressor 302, condenser 304, expansion valve 306, and evaporator
308. A refrigerant fluid may be circulated through the system
through different phase states to cause a cooling effect. The
refrigerant fluid may be or include ammonia, sulfur dioxide,
propane, one or more fluorocarbons or chlorofluorocarbons, and/or
other refrigerant fluids. The refrigerant fluid may enter the
compressor 302 as a relatively low-pressure vapor. The compressor
302 may compress the fluid to a relatively high-pressure vapor. The
fluid may then pass through the condenser 304, where it may change
phase to a liquid while maintaining a relatively high pressure. The
fluid may then pass through the expansion valve 306, where it may
experience a reduction in pressure. The reduction in pressure may
cause a flash evaporation of all or part of the refrigerant, which
may lower the temperature of the fluid. The fluid may then pass
into the evaporator 308, where it may absorb and remove heat from
the surrounding air. The refrigerant may transform into vapor in
the evaporator 308, before it is routed back through the compressor
302.
[0036] Alternatively, in some embodiments, an absorption cooling
system may be used. In this way, two or more fluids having
different boiling temperatures may be used in combination, and may
be separated by applying heat. FIG. 4 shows one embodiment of
another cooling subsystem 404 of the present disclosure, which may
be used in conjunction with a fluid heating device 402 of the
present disclosure. As shown, the fluid heating device 402 may be a
solar-based device using solar energy 406 to heat a circulated
fluid, as described above. The fluid heating device 402 may be a
closed-loop system. Fluid from the fluid heating device 402 may be
routed through, or through a portion of, the cooling subsystem 404
to provide heat to a refrigerant fluid within the cooling
subsystem. For example, heated fluid from the fluid heating device
402 may be circulated through a generator 408 of the cooling
subsystem 404, as will be described in more detail below.
[0037] The cooling subsystem 404 may be or include an absorption
cooling system, wherein one or more, or two or more, fluids are
circulated through a plurality of components. The cooling subsystem
may generally have a generator 408, a condenser 412, a throttling
valve 414, an evaporator 416, an absorber 418, and a heat exchanger
420. The cooling subsystem 404 may be configured to provide cooling
or refrigeration for an environment, object, or material. For
example, the cooling subsystem 404 may be used to cool a room or
dwelling, food storage enclosure, or other storage enclosure. In
some embodiments, the cooling subsystem 404 may be used to cool a
material, such as water stored in a water tank.
[0038] The cooling subsystem 404 may be a closed-loop system
wherein one or more fluids are circulated through the various
components. In at least one embodiment, a mixture of two fluids, a
refrigerant and an absorbent, may be circulated through the cooling
subsystem 404. The refrigerant may have a lower boiling temperature
than the absorbent. The refrigerant may be or include ammonia,
sulfur dioxide, propane, or another refrigerant. The absorbent may
be or include a salt solution or other suitable absorbent. The
cooling subsystem 404 may be configured to heat the circulated
fluid(s) to cause vaporization of the refrigerant. For example,
where the fluid includes a refrigerant-absorbent mixture, the
cooling subsystem 404 may be configured to heat the mixture to
separate the two fluids by causing the refrigerant to vaporize.
[0039] In the cooling subsystem 404, the refrigerant-absorbent
mixture may be routed, as a liquid, through the generator 408,
where it may be heated. The generator 408 may be configured to
separate the refrigerant from the absorbent. For example, the
generator 408 may be a fluid-to-fluid heat exchanger, wherein
heated fluid from the fluid heating device 402 may pass through the
generator to heat the liquid refrigerant-absorbent mixture. The
generator 408 may heat the refrigerant-absorbent mixture until it
reaches or exceeds the boiling temperature of the refrigerant,
causing the refrigerant or a portion thereof to vaporize out of the
mixture. After separation from the refrigerant at the generator
408, the liquid absorbent may be routed to the absorber 418. The
vaporized refrigerant may be routed to the condenser 412, where it
may lose heat to the environment and reconvert to a liquid. The
liquid refrigerant may be passed through the throttling valve 414,
which may cause a drop in pressure. The reduction in pressure may
cause a flash evaporation of all or part of the refrigerant, which
may lower the temperature of the fluid. With a relatively low
pressure, the cooled liquid refrigerant may enter the evaporator
416, where it may absorb and remove heat from the surrounding air.
The refrigerant may transform into a vapor in the evaporator 416.
In some embodiments, the evaporator 416 itself may be or include
the region to be cooled by the cooling subsystem 404. For example,
the evaporator 416 may be or include a food storage or other
storage container or area. In other embodiments, the evaporator 416
may be configured to route the vaporized refrigerant, via one or
more coils for example, through, around, or proximate to a space or
object to be cooled, such as a dwelling space or other environment
or object. Upon leaving the evaporator 416, the vaporized
refrigerant may be routed to the absorber 418, where it may be
reabsorbed as a liquid by the absorbent. The recombined liquid
refrigerant-absorbent mixture may be directed back to the generator
408 to repeat the separation and cooling processes. In some
embodiments, a heat exchanger 420 may be flowably arranged between
the generator 408 and absorber 418. After separation from
refrigerant, absorbent (which may still be heated from the
generator 408) may be directed from the generator, through the heat
exchanger 420 before it reaches the absorber 418. Moreover, the
refrigerant-absorbent mixture may be routed from the absorber 418,
through the heat exchanger, before it reaches the generator 408. In
this way, the refrigerant-absorbent mixture may be preheated by the
heated absorbent before it reaches the generator 408.
[0040] In some embodiments, a fluid heating device of the present
disclosure may be more integrally incorporated into a cooling
subsystem, such that the fluid (or mixture) passing through the
cooling system may itself be heated via the fluid heating device.
As shown for example in FIG. 5, a fluid heating device 502 may be
integrated with a cooling subsystem 504 of the present disclosure.
The fluid heating device 502 may be a solar-based system as
generally described above. The cooling subsystem 504 may have a
condenser 512, throttling valve 514, evaporator 516, absorber 518,
and heat exchanger 520, which may operate similarly to those
discussed above with respect to FIG. 4. However, it is to be
appreciated that in the embodiment of FIG. 5, the fluid heating
device 502 may be used in place of, or used as, a generator to heat
and thus separate a refrigerant-absorbent mixture. In this way, the
liquid refrigerant-absorbent mixture may be passed through the
fluid heating device 502 for heating. The mixture may be heated
until it reaches or exceeds the boiling temperature of the
refrigerant. In some embodiments, the mixture may be cycled through
the fluid heating device 502 multiple times until it reaches or
exceeds the desired temperature or temperature range. Upon reaching
or exceeding the boiling temperature of the refrigerant, the
refrigerant may vaporize, and be passed through the condenser 512,
throttling valve 514, evaporator 516, and absorber 618, as
described with respect to FIG. 4. The liquid absorbent may be
passed to the absorber 518, optionally through a heat exchanger
520. In the absorber 518, the refrigerant may be absorbed as a
liquid by the absorbent, and the mixture may be directed back to
the fluid heating device 502, optionally through the heat exchanger
520, to repeat the separation and cooling processes. In this way,
the fluid heating device 502 and cooling subsystem 504 may together
form a single closed-loop system.
[0041] While particular cooling systems have been shown and
described, other cooling systems may be used in other
embodiments.
[0042] As indicated above, in some embodiments, a system of the
present disclosure may provide a heating subsystem in addition to,
or alternative to, a cooling subsystem. For example, FIG. 6 shows
one embodiment of a fluid heating device 602 in combination with a
heating subsystem 604. The fluid heating device 602 may be a
solar-based fluid heating device, as generally described above. The
heating subsystem 604 may generally be configured to route a heated
liquid through, around, or proximate to an area or object to be
heated. For example, in some embodiments, the heating subsystem 604
may include a hot water tank 606 storing water (or another liquid)
therein. Tubing or piping may be coiled through or around the hot
water tank 606, such that heated fluid from the fluid heating
device 602 may be routed through or around the water tank. Heat
from the heated fluid may be transferred to water stored in the hot
water tank 606, so as to increase its temperature. In some
embodiments, heated fluid from the fluid heating device 602 may be
cycled through the hot water tank 606 until water stored therein
reaches a desired temperature or temperature range.
[0043] FIGS. 7 and 8 show a storage tank 700, which may be a hot
water tank, according to one or more embodiments. The storage tank
700 may have any suitable size and shape configured for storing a
desired quantity of water or another fluid or material. The storage
tank 700 may be constructed of any suitable materials, and in some
embodiments, may be insulated to contain a heated fluid, for
example. The storage tank 700 may have an inlet port 702 and outlet
port 704 for the water or other fluid or material stored therein.
The tank 700 may additionally have an inlet 706 and outlet 708 port
through which heated fluid from a fluid heating device may be
directed. As shown in FIG. 8, tubing or piping 710, which may be
arranged in one or more coiled configurations, may be arranged
within the storage tank 700. The piping 710 may be flowably
arranged between the inlet 706 and the outlet 708, and may be
configured to carry heated fluid from the fluid heating device
through the storage tank 700. The piping 710 may generally be
arranged so as to distribute heat from the heated fluid throughout
the storage tank. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, the piping 710
may be arranged in a coil shape extending between a first and
second end of the storage tank 700, and having relatively uniform
spacing between loops or rings of the coil. In other embodiments,
the piping 710 may be arranged with a different configuration. In
still other embodiments, the piping 710 may be arranged around an
outer wall of the storage tank, or between inner and outer walls.
In other embodiments, the piping 710 may be arranged above or
beneath the storage tank, or generally at or near a first end of
the storage tank, for example. Still other piping configurations
may be employed.
[0044] In some embodiments, one or more temperature sensors may be
configured to detect a temperature related to the heating
subsystem. For example, a temperature sensor 712 may be arranged on
or in the storage tank 700. The temperature sensor 712 may be
configured to detect a temperature of the water or other material
within the storage tank 700. In this way, the temperature sensor
712 may help to determine when the water or other material stored
within the storage tank 700 has reached a desired temperature or
temperature range. In some embodiments, more than one temperature
sensor may be arranged within or near the storage tank 700, such
that temperature within the tank may be determined at multiple
locations. In still other embodiments, other or additional
temperature sensors may be arranged with different configurations.
The temperature sensor 712 may be wired or wireless. In some
embodiments, a transmitter 714 may be configured to send sensed
temperature data to a controller.
[0045] With reference back to the system 600 of FIG. 6, in some
embodiments, a control valve 608 may be used to operably direct
heated fluid from the fluid heating device 602 to the hot water
tank 606 as desired or needed. For example, the control valve 608
may have a first position, which may close off or limit flow to the
heating subsystem 604. With the valve 608 in the first position,
heated fluid of the fluid heating device 602 may be recirculated
back through the fluid heating device for continued heating or
reheating. Additionally, the control valve 608 may have a second
position, which may open flow to the heating subsystem 604. With
the valve 608 in the open position, all or a portion of heated
fluid from the fluid heating device 602 may be directed to the
heating subsystem 604 to heat a storage tank or other enclosure,
space, or object.
[0046] In some embodiments, a system of the present disclosure may
have one or more cooling subsystems and/or one or more heating
subsystems. Turning for example to FIG. 9, a system 900 having a
fluid heating device 902, cooling subsystem 904, and heating
subsystem 906 is shown. Each of the subsystems 902, 904, 906 may be
similar to those discussed above. In some embodiments, a control
valve 908 may be configured to direct heated fluid from the fluid
heating device 902 to each of the cooling subsystem 904 and the
heating subsystem 906. For example, the control valve 908 may have
a first position, which may direct heated fluid from the fluid
heating device 902 to the cooling subsystem 904, and a second
position which may direct heated fluid from the fluid heating
device to the heating subsystem 906. In some embodiments, the
control valve 908 may operably direct heated fluid from the fluid
heating device 902 to each of the cooling subsystem 904 and heating
subsystem 906 simultaneously. As the heated fluid leaves each of
the cooling subsystem 904 and heating subsystem 906, it may be
circulated back to the fluid heating device 902 for reheating.
[0047] Additionally, as described above with respect to FIG. 5, in
some embodiments, a fluid heating device may operate as, or in
place of, a generator for a cooling subsystem. In this regard, FIG.
10 shows system 1000 having a fluid heating device 1002, cooling
subsystem 1004, and heating subsystem 1006, wherein the fluid
heating device is integrally incorporated as a generator of the
cooling subsystem. In this way, a refrigerant fluid in combination
with an absorber fluid may be heated by cycling through the heated
fluid subsystem 1002. A control valve 1008 may operably direct
heated fluid to the cooling subsystem 1004 and/or to the heating
subsystem 1006. In some embodiments, heated fluid directed to the
heating subsystem 1006 may include the absorber, or may include the
absorber-refrigerant mixture.
[0048] As described above, one or more temperature sensors may be
configured to sense a temperature related to the heating subsystem.
Additionally, one or more temperature sensors may be configured to
sense a temperature related to the cooling subsystem. For example,
as shown in FIG. 11, a temperature sensor 1102 may be arranged
within a region or enclosure 1104 cooled by vaporizing refrigerant
in the evaporator 1106 of a cooling subsystem 1108. The temperature
sensor 1102 may be a wired or wireless sensor. In some embodiments,
a transmitter, as described with respect to FIG. 6, may be
configured to send sensed temperature data to a controller.
Additionally, temperature sensors may be arranged at other
locations throughout the heating and/or cooling subsystems. For
example, a temperature sensor may configured to sense heated fluid
temperature as it exits the fluid heating device, before or after
entering a thermal subsystem. Other sensors may be configured to
sense the temperature of a refrigerant fluid and/or absorbent fluid
within a cooling subsystem. For example, a temperature sensor may
be configured to determine refrigerant fluid temperature as the
refrigerant enters an absorber. Another temperature sensor may be
configured to measure refrigerant-absorber temperature as the
mixture leaves the absorber. Other temperature sensors may be
arranged at suitable locations throughout a cooling and/or heating
subsystem. Additionally, other sensors, such as flow sensors or
pressure sensors may be arranged at suitable locations throughout a
system of the present disclosures. Flow and/or pressure sensors
arranged at any of the above-described locations or other locations
throughout the system may provide for additional monitoring and
control of the system.
[0049] Systems of the present disclosure may generally be
configured to operate heating and/or cooling operations as needed
or desired. Control of such heating and cooling operations may be
based upon sensed conditions, predetermined settings, and/or user
inputs. In some embodiments, a controller, processor, or other
computing device may be configured for monitoring and/or
controlling heating and cooling system operations. Turning now to
FIG. 12, a heating and cooling control system 1200 of the present
disclosure is shown, according to one or more embodiments. The
system 1200 may generally include a controller 1202, a cooling
subsystem temperature sensor 1204, a heating subsystem temperature
sensor 1206, a control valve 1208, a database 1210, and a user
device 1212. The various devices of the system 1200 may communicate
over a wired or wireless network 1214.
[0050] The valve 1208 may be a valve similar to those discussed
above with respect to FIGS. 9 and 10. The valve 1208 may configured
to direct heated fluid from a fluid heating device to a cooling
subsystem and/or a heating subsystem. The valve 1208 may be an
electromechanical valve in some embodiments. In some embodiments,
the system 1200 may have more than one valve 1208. For example, a
first valve may control flow to a cooling subsystem and a second
valve may control flow to a heating subsystem. In still other
embodiments, multiple valves may be arranged at different points
throughout the fluid heating device, cooling subsystem, and heating
subsystem. In addition or alternative to the valve 1208, in some
embodiments, the system 1200 may have one or more pumps, such as
for directing heated fluid from the fluid heating device to the
cooling and/or heating subsystems. Pumps may be used to direct the
fluid to or through a desired path of circulation. The pump(s) may
be used in combination with the one or more valves in some
embodiments. In other embodiments, the pump(s) may be used without
the need for a valve, such that flow may be directed by selectively
operating the pump(s).
[0051] The temperature sensors 1204, 1206 may be configured to
sense temperature conditions and transmit sensed temperature
conditions to the controller 1202. For example, the cooling
subsystem temperature sensor 1204 may be arranged within or
proximate to a cooling subsystem, such as within or on an
enclosure, region, or object cooled by refrigerant fluid of the
cooling subsystem. In some embodiments, the system 1200 may have
more than one cooling temperature sensor 1204 arranged within or on
an area or object cooled by the subsystem. Similarly, the heating
subsystem temperatures sensor 1206 may be arranged within or
proximate to a heating subsystem, such as within or on an
enclosure, region, or object heated by heated fluid passing through
the heating subsystem. In some embodiments, the system 1200 may
have more than one heating temperature sensor 1206 arranged within
or on an area or object heated by the subsystem. In some
embodiments, the system 1200 may have other sensors as well, such
as flow sensors and pressure sensors for monitoring and/or
controlling flow of the heated fluid and/or other fluids in the
system. Temperature, flow, pressure, and/or other sensors may
operate to sense and/or transmit sensed conditions continuously,
intermittently, at intervals, or on demand.
[0052] The controller 1202 may include hardware and/or software for
controlling the valve 1208 (and/or one or more fluid pumps) based
upon sensed temperature conditions, predetermined settings, and/or
user input. For example, the controller 1202 may be programmed or
otherwise configured such that when a temperature sensor 1204, 1206
indicates that a temperature is outside of a desired or
predetermined range, the controller may operate the valve 1208 to
direct or redirect heated fluid from a fluid heating device. As a
more particular example, it may be predetermined that an enclosure
should be cooled, via the cooling subsystem, to a temperature of 60
degrees F. If the cooling subsystem temperature sensor 1204
indicates that a temperature within the enclosure rises above 60
degrees F., the controller 1202 may operate the valve 1208 to send
heated fluid to the cooling subsystem so as to operate the cooling
subsystem to lower the temperature of the enclosure. Once the
temperature of the enclosure reaches or drops below the desired 60
degrees F., the controller 1202 may operate the valve 1208 to stop
directing heated fluid to the cooling subsystem, or to redirect the
heated fluid elsewhere, such as to another subsystem. As another
particular example, it may be predetermined that an enclosure
should be heated, via the heating subsystem, to a temperature of 90
degrees F. If the heating subsystem temperature sensor 1206
indicates that a temperature within the enclosure drops below 90
degrees F., the controller 1202 may operate the valve 1208 to send
heated fluid to the heating subsystem so as to raise the
temperature of the enclosure. Once the temperature of the enclosure
reaches or exceeds the desired 90 degrees F., the controller 1202
may operate the valve 1208 to stop directed heated fluid to the
heating subsystem, or to redirect the heated fluid elsewhere. The
controller 1202 may be arranged onboard the fluid heating device in
some embodiments. In other embodiments, the controller 1202 may be
arranged remotely.
[0053] In some embodiments, the controller 1202 may be the same
controller(s) that operates the fluid heating device. That is, as
described above with respect to FIG. 2, one or more controllers may
operate the fluid heating device by tracking and directing the
solar collection system toward the sun, and controlling flow of
fluid through the device to heat the fluid as needed.
[0054] In some embodiments, the controller 1202 may be operated by,
or at least in part by, user input. For example, a user may set
desired temperatures or temperature ranges for the heating and/or
cooling subsystems. In some embodiments, a user may set or change a
desired temperature or range on demand to operate the valve 1208 in
substantially real time or near real time.
[0055] The user device 1212 may provide a user interface through
which a user may interact with the system 1200. For example, the
user device 1212 may be configured to receive user inputs for
controlling the valve 1208. Additionally, the user device 1212 may
allow a user to access current or historical sensed data, current
or historical valve operations or positions, and/or current or
historical temperature settings or other user inputs. The user
device 1212 may be or include a desktop, notebook, or tablet
computer in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the user device
1212 may be or include a smartphone or other digital device. The
user device 1212 may provide a user interface, which may include
one or more software programs or applications stored on the user
device. Alternatively, a user interface may be provided through one
or more websites accessible over a network, such as an Internet
network. In some embodiments, multiple user devices 1212 may be
used to operate or access the system 1200.
[0056] The database 1210 may include one or more local or remote
data storage devices. The database 1210 may be configured to store
historical sensed data. Additionally, the database 1210 may be
configured to store instructions for controlling the valve 1208,
such as user inputs of temperatures or temperature ranges for each
subsystem. The database 1210 may additionally store data related to
historical valve operations.
[0057] In use, systems and devices of the present disclosure may
operate to provide self-contained heating and/or cooling
operations. As described above, heated fluid from a fluid heating
device may be directed to a heating subsystem, where the heated
fluid may be directed through piping for heating an enclosure,
environment, or object. Additionally or alternatively, heated fluid
from a fluid heating device may be directed to a cooling subsystem,
where heat from the heated fluid may be used to operate or initiate
the cooling process. For example, heat from the heated fluid may be
used to separate a refrigerant from an absorber by bringing the
refrigerant to its boiling temperature. The cooling subsystem may
operate to cool an enclosure, environment, or object. In some
embodiments, a fluid heating device of the present disclosure may
operate multiple heating subsystems and/or multiple cooling
subsystems, such as for heating and/or cooling different
enclosures. Once a user selects or sets a desired temperature or
temperature range for each subsystem, the system may operate
autonomously to direct heated fluid as needed to maintain the
desired temperatures or ranges for each subsystem. In some
embodiments, subsystems may be operated simultaneously, while in
other embodiments, subsystems may be operated alternatively.
[0058] In some embodiments, a system of the present disclosure may
prioritize some subsystems over other subsystems. For example, if a
temperature within two subsystems falls outside of a desired
temperature or range for each subsystem, the controller for the
system may prioritize operation of one of the two subsystems over
the other. Similarly, if there is not enough heated fluid to
fulfill the needs of one or more subsystems, the controller may
prioritize various operations. In some embodiments, prioritization
of subsystems may be determined based on the amount of time and/or
energy needed to maintain or reach a desired temperature or range
for each subsystem. In some embodiments, a user may select or
determine which subsystems are to be prioritized over others. As a
particular example, where medicinal products are stored in a
refrigerated enclosure, a user may specify that cooling operations
for that refrigerated enclosure should be prioritized over other
subsystem operations. In other embodiments, the system may
determine, or a user may select, a portion of heated fluid that
should be directed to operation of each subsystem. For example, a
user may select that at least 50% of heated fluid should be
directed to a particular subsystem, and remaining heated fluid
should be divided between other subsystems. Flow, pressure, and
temperature sensors may help to determine whether prioritization is
needed at a particular time. In this way, user may designate a
variety of rules for controlling the system. For example, where a
particular temperature, pressure, and/or flow is measured, a user
may designate that particular prioritization procedures are to be
followed. Prioritization procedures or designations may be
particularly beneficial where solar energy directed by a fluid
heating device is interrupted. For example, at night or during
periods of overcast or low-light conditions, there may be
insufficient solar energy to meet the demands of the various
thermal subsystems. Prioritization procedures may be used to help
direct heated fluid where it is most needed or where it may be most
beneficial.
[0059] It is to be appreciated that a system of the present
disclosure may allow for temperature control of the heated fluid
used to operate the various thermal subsystems. In some
embodiments, some thermal subsystems may require, or benefit from,
fluid that is heated to a particular temperature or range, while
other subsystems may require or benefit from fluid that is heated
to a different temperature or range. Thus, the fluid heating device
may be operated to control the temperature of heated fluid directed
to each thermal subsystem. This control may be performed through
the use of one or more valves, such as temperature controlled or
digitally controlled valves, arranged along the flow path of the
fluid heating device. Such temperature controlled valving is
additionally described in U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No.
14/954,318, entitled Control Valve Assembly for a Fluid Heating
System, and previously incorporated herein by reference.
Additionally the controller may be configured to direct the solar
heating device away from the sun once a particular temperature is
reached or neared. Through the use of temperature controlled or
digitally controlled valves, and the ability to redirect the fluid
heating device as needed, the temperature of fluid exiting the
fluid heating device may be optimized for different thermal
subsystems.
[0060] In some embodiments, one or more subsystems may have a
threshold temperature, below which heated fluid provided by the
fluid heating device may be ineffective. For example, for a cooling
subsystem, the threshold temperature may be a boiling temperature
of a refrigerant circulating through the cooling subsystem. In
order to vaporize the refrigerant, heated fluid provided to power
the cooling subsystem may need reach at least that threshold
temperature. Thus, if it is determined that heated fluid exiting
the fluid heating device is below this threshold temperature, the
fluid may be directed away from the cooling subsystem, and
redirected where it may be used more efficiently or effectively. In
this way, the threshold temperature of a cooling subsystem may be
determined based on the particular refrigerant(s) or other fluids
circulated within the cooling subsystem.
[0061] Similarly, for a heating subsystem, such as a storage tank
described above with respect to FIGS. 7 and 8, the threshold
temperature may be determined based upon a current temperature
within the storage tank. For example, if a current temperature
within the storage tank is below a temperature of heated fluid
exiting the fluid heating device, the fluid exiting the fluid
heating device may be suitable for heating material in the storage
tank. That is, at any given time, a threshold temperature for the
heating subsystem may be a temperature above the current
temperature of the heating subsystem. If it is determined that
heated fluid exiting the fluid heating device is at or below a
current temperature of the heating subsystem, the fluid may be
directed away from the heating subsystem, and redirected where it
may be used more efficiently or effectively.
[0062] A system of the present disclosure may operate automatically
to monitor threshold temperatures and fluid heating device
temperatures to determine where to efficiently or effectively
direct heated fluid. This may be particularly beneficial where
fluid heating is interrupted or limited (i.e., by periods of low or
no sunlight).
[0063] In some embodiments, a system of the present disclosure may
incorporate one or more heating sources in addition to, or
alternative to, a fluid heating device. For example, an electric
heating device may allow the system to operate at night, during a
cloudy day, or when the fluid heating device described above is
otherwise unable to collect sufficient solar energy to meet the
needs of the system. In some embodiments, a solar electric device
may be used to collect solar energy, which may be stored as
electric energy to power a heater and/or other components of the
system. Such additional heating sources may be particularly
beneficial to continue powering a system of the present disclosure
when there is insufficient sunlight present to meet fluid heating
demands of the system, such as at night, on overcast days, or
during times of peak demand.
[0064] Turning for example to FIG. 13, a solar electric device 1302
is shown in combination with a fluid heating device 1304 for
providing heat to power one or more thermal subsystems 1306. The
solar electric device 1304 may collect solar energy through one or
more solar panels. The collected solar energy may be stored, such
as in one or more batteries. When needed, the stored battery power
may then be used to power a heater, such as a resistance heater, to
heat, or assist in heating, system fluid. As a particular example,
the solar electric device 1302 may collect and store solar energy
during the daytime, while the fluid heating device 1304 operates to
provide a heated fluid to the one or more thermal subsystems 1306.
At night, or when there otherwise is insufficient sunlight to heat
the circulated fluid to one or more threshold temperatures, stored
energy collected by the solar electric device 1302 may be used to
provide heated fluid to the one or more thermal subsystems 1306 via
an electric heater. As another example, collected and/or stored
energy from the solar electric device 1302 may be used to
supplement heating during time of peak demand. Additionally, in
some embodiments, energy collected and/or stored by the solar
electric device 1302 may be used to power other components of the
system. For example, stored battery power may be used to power
other electrical and electromechanical components of the system,
such as a controller, digital valves, pumps, and/or other
components discussed above with respect to FIG. 12.
[0065] It is to be appreciated that a system of the present
disclosure may be capable of, and/or particularly configured for,
off-grid or micro-grid use. In this way, the systems described
herein may be self-sustaining without the need for an electric
power grid or other outside energy source. For example, and as
described above, heated fluid circulated to cooling and/or heating
subsystems may be heated through solar energy directed by a solar
heating device. Additionally, a solar electric device may be used
to power an electric heater for supplemental or alternative heat as
needed. A solar electric device may additionally be used to power
other system components and controls. This off-grid or micro-grid
operation may be particularly beneficial in remote areas of the
world or in conditions of power loss, catastrophic event, war, or
other situations where other energy sources may be relatively
unavailable or inaccessible.
[0066] For example, FIG. 14 shows one embodiment of a system 1400
wherein a fluid heating device 1402 and a solar electric device
1404 are used in combination to power one or more thermal
subsystems, such as a cooling subsystem 1406 and a heating
subsystem 1408. The fluid heating device 1402 may use solar thermal
heat to heat a fluid 1405, as described above. Using one or more
pumps 1410 and one or more valves 1412, the fluid heating device
1402 may circulate the fluid 1405 to operably power each of the
thermal subsystems 1406, 1408. Additionally, the solar electric
device 1404 may collect and store solar power in a battery bank
1414. When needed, the energy stored in the battery bank 1414 may
be used to add additional heat to the circulating fluid 1405 via
one or more heaters 1416. As described above, energy collected by
the solar electric device 1404 may additionally or alternatively be
used to power other electrical components of the system, including
a controller, valves, pumps, and/or other components. Moreover,
where the cooling subsystem 1406 comprises a compression-based
cooling system, energy collected by the solar electric device 1404
and/or stored in the battery bank 1414 may be used to power a
compressor.
[0067] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a system 1500 wherein a
fluid heating device 1502 and three solar electric devices 1504a,
1504b, 1504c are used in combination to power one or more thermal
subsystems 1506. It is to be appreciated that more or fewer fluid
heating devices 1502, solar electric devices 1504, and/or other
heating devices or energy devices may be added.
[0068] For purposes of this disclosure, any system described herein
may include any instrumentality or aggregate of instrumentalities
operable to compute, calculate, determine, classify, process,
transmit, receive, retrieve, originate, switch, store, display,
communicate, manifest, detect, record, reproduce, handle, or
utilize any form of information, intelligence, or data for
business, scientific, control, or other purposes. For example, a
system or any portion thereof may be a minicomputer, mainframe
computer, personal computer (e.g., desktop or laptop), tablet
computer, embedded computer, mobile device (e.g., personal digital
assistant (PDA) or smart phone) or other hand-held computing
device, server (e.g., blade server or rack server), a network
storage device, or any other suitable device or combination of
devices and may vary in size, shape, performance, functionality,
and price. A system may include volatile memory (e.g., random
access memory (RAM)), one or more processing resources such as a
central processing unit (CPU) or hardware or software control
logic, ROM, and/or other types of nonvolatile memory (e.g., EPROM,
EEPROM, etc.). A basic input/output system (BIOS) can be stored in
the non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM), and may include basic routines
facilitating communication of data and signals between components
within the system. The volatile memory may additionally include a
high-speed RAM, such as static RAM for caching data.
[0069] Additional components of a system may include one or more
disk drives or one or more mass storage devices, one or more
network ports for communicating with external devices as well as
various input and output (I/O) devices, such as digital and analog
general purpose I/O, a keyboard, a mouse, touchscreen and/or a
video display. Mass storage devices may include, but are not
limited to, a hard disk drive, floppy disk drive, CD-ROM drive,
smart drive, flash drive, or other types of non-volatile data
storage, a plurality of storage devices, a storage subsystem, or
any combination of storage devices. A storage interface may be
provided for interfacing with mass storage devices, for example, a
storage subsystem. The storage interface may include any suitable
interface technology, such as EIDE, ATA, SATA, and IEEE 1394. A
system may include what is referred to as a user interface for
interacting with the system, which may generally include a display,
mouse or other cursor control device, keyboard, button, touchpad,
touch screen, stylus, remote control (such as an infrared remote
control), microphone, camera, video recorder, gesture systems
(e.g., eye movement, head movement, etc.), speaker, LED, light,
joystick, game pad, switch, buzzer, bell, and/or other user
input/output device for communicating with one or more users or for
entering information into the system. These and other devices for
interacting with the system may be connected to the system through
I/O device interface(s) via a system bus, but can be connected by
other interfaces such as a parallel port, IEEE 1394 serial port, a
game port, a USB port, an IR interface, etc. Output devices may
include any type of device for presenting information to a user,
including but not limited to, a computer monitor, flat-screen
display, or other visual display, a printer, and/or speakers or any
other device for providing information in audio form, such as a
telephone, a plurality of output devices, or any combination of
output devices.
[0070] A system may also include one or more buses operable to
transmit communications between the various hardware components. A
system bus may be any of several types of bus structure that can
further interconnect, for example, to a memory bus (with or without
a memory controller) and/or a peripheral bus (e.g., PCI, PCIe, AGP,
LPC, I2C, SPI, USB, etc.) using any of a variety of commercially
available bus architectures.
[0071] One or more programs or applications, such as a web browser
and/or other executable applications, may be stored in one or more
of the system data storage devices. Generally, programs may include
routines, methods, data structures, other software components,
etc., that perform particular tasks or implement particular
abstract data types. Programs or applications may be loaded in part
or in whole into a main memory or processor during execution by the
processor. One or more processors may execute applications or
programs to run systems or methods of the present disclosure, or
portions thereof, stored as executable programs or program code in
the memory, or received from the Internet or other network. Any
commercial or freeware web browser or other application capable of
retrieving content from a network and displaying pages or screens
may be used. In some embodiments, a customized application may be
used to access, display, and update information. A user may
interact with the system, programs, and data stored thereon or
accessible thereto using any one or more of the input and output
devices described above.
[0072] A system of the present disclosure can operate in a
networked environment using logical connections via a wired and/or
wireless communications subsystem to one or more networks and/or
other computers. Other computers can include, but are not limited
to, workstations, servers, routers, personal computers,
microprocessor-based entertainment appliances, peer devices, or
other common network nodes, and may generally include many or all
of the elements described above. Logical connections may include
wired and/or wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN), a
wide area network (WAN), hotspot, a global communications network,
such as the Internet, and so on. The system may be operable to
communicate with wired and/or wireless devices or other processing
entities using, for example, radio technologies, such as the IEEE
802.xx family of standards, and includes at least Wi-Fi (wireless
fidelity), WiMax, and Bluetooth wireless technologies.
Communications can be made via a predefined structure as with a
conventional network or via an ad hoc communication between at
least two devices.
[0073] Hardware and software components of the present disclosure,
as discussed herein, may be integral portions of a single computer,
server, controller, or message sign, or may be connected parts of a
computer network. The hardware and software components may be
located within a single location or, in other embodiments, portions
of the hardware and software components may be divided among a
plurality of locations and connected directly or through a global
computer information network, such as the Internet. Accordingly,
aspects of the various embodiments of the present disclosure can be
practiced in distributed computing environments where certain tasks
are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through
a communications network. In such a distributed computing
environment, program modules may be located in local and/or remote
storage and/or memory systems.
[0074] As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the
various embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied as a
method (including, for example, a computer-implemented process, a
business process, and/or any other process), apparatus (including,
for example, a system, machine, device, computer program product,
and/or the like), or a combination of the foregoing. Accordingly,
embodiments of the present disclosure may take the form of an
entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment
(including firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description
languages, etc.), or an embodiment combining software and hardware
aspects. Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure may
take the form of a computer program product on a computer-readable
medium or computer-readable storage medium, having
computer-executable program code embodied in the medium, that
define processes or methods described herein. A processor or
processors may perform the necessary tasks defined by the
computer-executable program code. Computer-executable program code
for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present
disclosure may be written in an object oriented, scripted or
unscripted programming language such as Java, Perl, PHP, Visual
Basic, Smalltalk, C++, or the like. However, the computer program
code for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present
disclosure may also be written in conventional procedural
programming languages, such as the C programming language or
similar programming languages. A code segment may represent a
procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a
subroutine, a module, an object, a software package, a class, or
any combination of instructions, data structures, or program
statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment
or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information,
data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information,
arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or
transmitted via any suitable means including memory sharing,
message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.
[0075] In the context of this document, a computer readable medium
may be any medium that can contain, store, communicate, or
transport the program for use by or in connection with the systems
disclosed herein. The computer-executable program code may be
transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited
to the Internet, optical fiber cable, radio frequency (RF) signals
or other wireless signals, or other mediums. The computer readable
medium may be, for example but is not limited to, an electronic,
magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor
system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples of suitable
computer readable medium include, but are not limited to, an
electrical connection having one or more wires or a tangible
storage medium such as a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a
random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable
programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a compact
disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or other optical or magnetic
storage device. Computer-readable media includes, but is not to be
confused with, computer-readable storage medium, which is intended
to cover all physical, non-transitory, or similar embodiments of
computer-readable media.
[0076] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be
described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or
block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer
program products. It is understood that each block of the flowchart
illustrations and/or block diagrams, and/or combinations of blocks
in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be
implemented by computer-executable program code portions. These
computer-executable program code portions may be provided to a
processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer,
or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a
particular machine, such that the code portions, which execute via
the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing
apparatus, create mechanisms for implementing the functions/acts
specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.
Alternatively, computer program implemented steps or acts may be
combined with operator or human implemented steps or acts in order
to carry out an embodiment of the invention.
[0077] Additionally, although a flowchart or block diagram may
illustrate a method as comprising sequential steps or a process as
having a particular order of operations, many of the steps or
operations in the flowchart(s) or block diagram(s) illustrated
herein can be performed in parallel or concurrently, and the
flowchart(s) or block diagram(s) should be read in the context of
the various embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, the
order of the method steps or process operations illustrated in a
flowchart or block diagram may be rearranged for some embodiments.
Similarly, a method or process illustrated in a flow chart or block
diagram could have additional steps or operations not included
therein or fewer steps or operations than those shown. Moreover, a
method step may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a
subroutine, a subprogram, etc.
[0078] As used herein, the terms "substantially" or "generally"
refer to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an
action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or
result. For example, an object that is "substantially" or
"generally" enclosed would mean that the object is either
completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The exact
allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in
some cases depend on the specific context. However, generally
speaking, the nearness of completion will be so as to have
generally the same overall result as if absolute and total
completion were obtained. The use of "substantially" or "generally"
is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer
to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic,
property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, an
element, combination, embodiment, or composition that is
"substantially free of" or "generally free of" an element may still
actually contain such element as long as there is generally no
significant effect thereof.
[0079] In the foregoing description various embodiments of the
present disclosure have been presented for the purpose of
illustration and description. They are not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed.
Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the
above teachings. The various embodiments were chosen and described
to provide the best illustration of the principals of the
disclosure and their practical application, and to enable one of
ordinary skill in the art to utilize the various embodiments with
various modifications as are suited to the particular use
contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the
scope of the present disclosure as determined by the appended
claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth they are
fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.
* * * * *