Combined thermal energy storage and heat exchanger unit
US11499785B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 15, 2019 |
| Grant date | Nov 15, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 31, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E70/30
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention provides a method for storing heat and continuously generating electricity, the method comprising a phase change material; first fluid conduit in thermal communication with the phase change material wherein the first conduit is adapted to receive a first fluid; a second fluid conduit in thermal communication with the phase change material, wherein the second conduit is adapted to receive a second fluid; and a turbine in thermal communication with the second fluid. Also provided is a method for continuously charging the energy power block portion of a combined thermal energy storage and heat exchanger unit with heated fluid generated by concentrated solar power, the method comprising intermittently storing heat in a phase change material; and continually directing the heat from the phase change material to a turbine such that the phase change material buffers the turbine against inconsistent solar heat inputs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.