US20090223648A1 - Heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties - Google Patents
Heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties Download PDFInfo
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- US20090223648A1 US20090223648A1 US12/043,997 US4399708A US2009223648A1 US 20090223648 A1 US20090223648 A1 US 20090223648A1 US 4399708 A US4399708 A US 4399708A US 2009223648 A1 US2009223648 A1 US 2009223648A1
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- Prior art keywords
- movable member
- conduit
- heat exchange
- heat exchanger
- fluid
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F13/00—Arrangements for modifying heat-transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing
- F28F13/06—Arrangements for modifying heat-transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing by affecting the pattern of flow of the heat-exchange media
- F28F13/08—Arrangements for modifying heat-transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing by affecting the pattern of flow of the heat-exchange media by varying the cross-section of the flow channels
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F1/00—Tubular elements; Assemblies of tubular elements
- F28F1/10—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses
- F28F1/40—Tubular elements and assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with projections, with recesses the means being only inside the tubular element
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F13/00—Arrangements for modifying heat-transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing
- F28F13/06—Arrangements for modifying heat-transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing by affecting the pattern of flow of the heat-exchange media
- F28F13/12—Arrangements for modifying heat-transfer, e.g. increasing, decreasing by affecting the pattern of flow of the heat-exchange media by creating turbulence, e.g. by stirring, by increasing the force of circulation
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F27/00—Control arrangements or safety devices specially adapted for heat-exchange or heat-transfer apparatus
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
- F28F2275/00—Fastening; Joining
- F28F2275/22—Fastening; Joining by using magnetic effect
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to a heat exchanger, and more specifically to a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties.
- Some heat exchangers include features that assist in the heat transfer process.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,467 to Zelesky et al. that teaches a cooled stator vane in a gas turbine engine. The vane is cooled by flowing cooling air through a passage inside the vane. Part of the passage is provided with stationary chevron shaped trip strips that angle in the direction of flow. The trip strips are used to increase convective heat transfer by creating vortices in the flow.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,930,405 to Welsh teaches stationary fin members that extend longitudinally within a heat exchanger tube. The fin members improve heat transfer by increasing the surface area for heat transfer within the tube.
- a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties is disclosed.
- the apparatus may include provisions for altering or varying the heat exchange characteristics of a heat exchanger by using one or more movable members that are connected to the inner surface of a heat exchange conduit.
- the apparatus may include one or more stationary members to impede flow within the heat exchange conduit.
- the stationary member free ends may be positioned downstream of the stationary member secured ends.
- the movable members may be positioned in a number of desired positions depending on the heat transfer rate needed.
- the desired position may include an extended position where the movable members may protrude into the flow path and impede flow inside the heat exchange conduit.
- the desired position may be a distal position defined as the maximum extended position.
- the desired position may include a retracted position, where the movable members minimally impede flow and are proximal to the portion of the heat exchange conduit inner surface that may be associated with the movable members.
- the apparatus may include provisions for attaching and adjusting the movable members.
- the apparatus may include provisions for impeding the range of motion of the movable members.
- the apparatus may include a heat exchange system that includes a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use.
- the apparatus may include provisions for altering or varying the heat exchange characteristics of a heat exchanger at different sections of a heat exchange conduit.
- the heat exchanger may include a casing conduit for directing the flow of a second fluid.
- the heat exchanger may include a retracted movable member that resides within a recess in a heat exchanger conduit.
- the heat exchanger may include movable members that translate or extend when moving from a retracted position to an extended position.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger
- FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with movable members in a retracted position
- FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with movable members in an extended position
- FIG. 4 is a preferred embodiment as shown in FIG. 2 including a diagram of a possible flow field
- FIG. 5 is a preferred embodiment as shown in FIG. 3 including a diagram of a possible flow field
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a movable member
- FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use;
- FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit;
- FIG. 9 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit.
- FIG. 10 is a schematic end view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit.
- FIG. 11 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including a retracted movable member within a recess or protrusion of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 12 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including an extended movable member and a protrusion on a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including retracted movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 14 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including extended movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 15 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including retracted movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 16 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including extended movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit
- Embodiments of the present invention include a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties.
- heat transfer properties may be varied by altering the flow of a first fluid through the heat exchanger.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger 101 .
- a heat exchanger 101 may include inlet conduit 106 that carries a first fluid 105 to heat exchange conduit 104 through heat exchange conduit inlet 108 .
- first fluid 105 flows through heat exchange conduit interior 111 .
- Heat exchange conduit interior 111 may be defined or bounded by heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 .
- first fluid 105 may leave heat exchange conduit 104 and enter outlet conduit 112 through heat exchange conduit outlet 110 .
- Heat exchange conduit 104 may facilitate heat transfer between first fluid 105 and a second fluid 107 .
- second fluid 107 may flow past one or more exterior surfaces of heat exchanger 101 .
- First fluid 105 may contact heat exchange conduit inner surface 109
- second fluid 107 may contact one more exterior surfaces of heat exchanger 101 , including heat exchange conduit exterior surface 113 . This arrangement helps to transfer heat between first fluid 105 and second fluid 107 .
- first fluid 105 may be higher than the temperature of second fluid 107 .
- first fluid 105 may heat the heat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 to heat exchange conduit exterior surface 113 .
- Second fluid 107 may cool heat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduit exterior surface 113 to heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 . In this manner, heat may be transferred from first fluid 105 to second fluid 107 .
- the temperature of second fluid 107 may be higher than the temperature of first fluid 105 .
- second fluid 107 may heat the heat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduit exterior surface 113 to heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 .
- First fluid 105 may cool heat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 to heat exchange conduit exterior surface 113 . In this manner, heat may be transferred from second fluid 107 to first fluid 105 .
- Some embodiments may include provisions for increasing or decreasing the rate of heat transfer of heat exchanger 101 .
- the heat transfer rate may be controlled by controlling the fluid flow characteristics of one or more of the working fluids associated with heat exchanger 101 .
- Some embodiments may include provisions for altering or controlling the fluid flow properties within heat exchange conduit 104 .
- these provisions include one or more mechanisms disposed within heat exchange conduit 104 .
- heat exchanger 101 may be utilized as a different kind of device.
- the apparatus may be used as a device to control fluid flow characteristics within a system.
- heat exchanger 101 may be used as a throttling device to control flow exiting heat exchange conduit 104 .
- heat exchange conduit 104 may encase stationary member 124 .
- stationary member 124 By using stationary member 124 to impede flow through heat exchange conduit 104 , the flow rate of first fluid 105 may be controlled.
- Stationary member secured end 127 may be connected to heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 .
- Stationary member free end 125 may protrude into the flow path of heat exchange conduit 104 .
- stationary member 124 may vary.
- the shape of stationary member 124 may be any shape that impedes flow.
- stationary member 124 is a rectangular flat plate.
- stationary member 124 may be another shape.
- stationary member 124 may protrude any distance into heat exchange conduit 104 .
- stationary member free end 125 may protrude no more than half the height of heat exchange conduit 104 .
- stationary member 124 may be designed so that stationary member free end 125 can range from any position upstream of stationary member secured end 127 to any position downstream of stationary member secured end 127 .
- stationary member 124 may be angled in an upstream direction, in a vertical position, or angled in a downstream direction.
- stationary member free end 125 may be positioned downstream of stationary member secured end 127 or rather, angled in a downstream direction.
- the spacing of stationary member 124 from heat exchange conduit inlet 108 may vary.
- Stationary member 124 may be positioned within heat exchange conduit 104 any distance from heat exchange conduit inlet 108 .
- the distance between stationary member 124 and heat exchange conduit inlet 108 may be no more than one-half the length of heat exchange conduit 104 .
- heat exchange conduit 104 may include a group of stationary members 131 . Similar to stationary member 124 , the group of stationary members 131 may be connected to and protrude into heat exchange conduit 104 . Also similar to stationary member 124 , the shape, size, orientation, and spacing of the group of stationary members 131 may vary. In addition, the spacing between individual members of the group of stationary members 131 may vary from one embodiment to another. Preferably, the distance between the individual members within a group of stationary members 131 may be approximately equal to the length of an individual stationary member within the group of stationary members 131 .
- first fluid 105 and second fluid 107 may be increased.
- heat transfer between first fluid 105 and second fluid 107 may increase further as the impedance on first fluid 105 increases.
- the greater the number of stationary members 131 and the greater the extension of stationary members 131 into heat exchange conduit 104 the greater the possibility of increasing heat transfer.
- the flow field within a heat exchange conduit varies based on a number of factors including the size and position of heat exchange conduit inlet 108 , fluid speed, path obstructions, and smoothness of heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 .
- the flow field is generally laminar.
- first fluid 105 may impinge on stationary member 124 typically creating one or more eddies behind stationary member 124 . The faster the speed of the fluid the more likely one or more eddies will also be created in front of stationary member 124 .
- the further away portions of first fluid 105 are from stationary member 124 the less turbulent and more laminar the flow field becomes.
- the flow field may look similar to the flow field where there may be only one stationary member 124 .
- Stationary members 124 , 129 will typically cause eddies to form between stationary members 124 , 129 and behind second stationary member 129 .
- the flow field may look similar to the previously mentioned examples.
- the group of stationary members 131 will typically cause eddies to form between individual members of the group of stationary members 131 and behind the most downstream member of the group of stationary members 131 .
- a movable member 122 may be used to impede flow through heat exchange conduit 104 , and thereby alter the flow characteristics and heat exchange characteristics of heat exchanger 101 .
- movable member 122 may be adjusted during the operation of heat exchanger 101 to increase or decrease the flow rate and heat transfer rate.
- Movable member 122 may be positioned in a number of desired positions depending on the heat transfer rate needed. Desired positions may include retracted positions or extended positions.
- FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment in a retracted position.
- FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment in an extended position.
- heat exchange conduit 104 may encase movable member 122 .
- Movable member secured end 123 may be connected to heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 .
- Movable member free end 121 may protrude into the flow path of heat exchange conduit 104 .
- movable member 122 may be positioned in a retracted position. In a retracted position, the entire body of movable member 122 may be positioned close to the portion of heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 associated with movable member 122 . Therefore, when movable member 122 may be in a retracted position, it may minimally interfere with or impede the flow of first fluid 105 . For example, in some cases, a portion of movable member 122 may touch the portion of heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 associated with movable member 122 . In another example, movable member 122 may be parallel to the portion of heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 associated with movable member 122 . In yet another example, a portion of each movable member 122 may minimally interfere with the flow of first fluid 105 by a depth less than five percent of the length of movable member 122 .
- movable member 122 may be positioned in an extended position.
- the extended position may be a position different than the retracted position.
- Moving member 122 may assume a number of different extended positions.
- the distal position may be defined as the maximum extended position or the extended position that may be the maximum distance from the retracted position.
- the spacing of movable member 122 from heat exchange conduit inlet 108 may vary.
- Movable member 122 may be positioned within heat exchange conduit 104 any distance from heat exchange conduit inlet 108 .
- the distance between movable member 122 and heat exchange conduit inlet 108 may be no more than one-half the length of heat exchange conduit 104 .
- this distance may vary.
- a stationary member 124 and a movable member 122 may be encased in heat exchange conduit 104 , it may also be preferable to size and space movable member 122 so that it does not contact stationary member 124 .
- the size and spacing of the group of movable members 137 does not necessarily need to correspond with the size and spacing of the group of stationary members 131 .
- an individual movable member may be larger or smaller than an individual stationary member, and the spacing between individual movable members may be larger or smaller than the spacing between individual stationary members.
- the flow field within heat exchange conduit 104 may vary. Additionally, the flow field may vary based on the orientation or position of movable member 122 and other movable members.
- the flow field may resemble the flow fields that include stationary members 124 , 129 , and 131 .
- less laminar flow may exist as movable member 122 moves from a retracted position to an extended position.
- first fluid 105 may impinge on movable member 122 typically creating one or more eddies within the flow field behind movable member 122 .
- the flow field may change.
- Movable members 122 , 133 will typically cause eddies to form between movable members 122 , 133 and behind second movable member 133 .
- the flow field may look similar to the previously mentioned examples.
- a group of movable members 137 will typically cause eddies to form between individual movable members within a group of movable members 137 and behind the most downstream movable member within a group of movable members 137 .
- FIG. 4 shows the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2 including a diagram of a possible flow field.
- FIG. 5 shows the preferred embodiment of FIG. 3 including a diagram of a possible flow field.
- the majority of the reference numerals were removed from FIGS. 4 and 5 so that the flow fields could be more clearly seen, but the same reference numerals used in FIGS. 2 and 3 are utilized in FIGS. 4 and 5 .
- the flow field near the retracted movable members 137 is generally laminar and turbulence increases near the stationary members 131 . Eddies can be seen before and after each stationary member.
- the movable members 137 and the stationary members 131 extend into the flow field and create turbulence throughout the conduit. Eddies can be seen before and after each movable and stationary member.
- heat exchanger 101 includes provisions for moving and controlling movable member 122 , and thereby, adjusting the flow field. Controlling the position of the movable member 122 allows a user to change the fluid flow conditions and heat transfer rate of heat exchanger 101 on demand.
- control system used to control the motion of movable member 122 operates in a manner as to avoid or eliminate the intrusion of additional parts or components that protrude into heat exchange conduit 104 .
- some embodiments may include non-invasive control systems.
- heat exchanger 101 may include an electronic control system that can control the position of movable member 122 .
- the control system includes a control unit able to remotely control the position of movable member 122 while heat exchanger 101 operates.
- the control system may use either a direct communications link or a wireless communications link to communicate with movable member 122 . In some embodiments, both direct and wireless communications methods may be used.
- ECU 132 may include a number of ports that facilitate the input and output of information and power.
- the term “port” means any interface or shared boundary between two conductors. In some cases, ports may facilitate the insertion and removal of conductors. Examples of these types of ports include mechanical connectors. In other cases, ports are interfaces that generally do not provide easy insertion or removal. Examples of these types of ports include soldering or electron traces on circuit boards. Some embodiments may include a given port or provision, while others may exclude it.
- the control system may comprise an electronic control unit (ECU) 132 , an ECU line 130 , electromagnet 128 , and movable member magnet 126 .
- ECU 132 , ECU line 130 , and electromagnet 128 wirelessly communicate with movable member 122 and movable member magnet 126 .
- ECU line 130 provides a direct communications link between ECU 132 and electromagnet 128 .
- ECU 132 first determines the degree of cooling or heating needed for first fluid 105 . ECU 132 may make this determination based on any desired parameter, including the heat exchange needs of other systems. Second, the heat exchange needs may be processed, and a desired position for movable member 122 maybe determined. Third, the position information may be transmitted to electromagnet 128 through ECU line 130 . ECU line 130 may provide the position information in the form of an electronic signal that may energize electromagnet 128 . Fourth, the energized electromagnet 128 generally creates a magnetic field. Electromagnet 128 may be attached to heat exchange conduit exterior surface 113 in the vicinity of movable member 122 . Finally, movable member magnet 126 may move or be repelled away from electromagnet 128 in response to the generated magnetic field. The characteristics of the magnetic field are typically dependant on the electronic signal transmitted through ECU line 130 .
- movable member magnet 126 may be a permanent magnet. In other embodiments, movable member 122 , instead of including movable member magnet 126 , may be magnetized.
- ECU 132 may determine the heat exchange needs of first fluid 105 . For example, ECU 132 may determine that an increase in the heat transfer rate is needed.
- the ECU may process the heat transfer information and may determine and transmit position information electronically to electromagnet 128 using ECU line 130 .
- the initial position of one or more movable members 122 , 137 may be a retracted position or an extended position.
- the electronic signal causes an increase in the repulsion between electromagnet 128 and movable member magnet 126 resulting in an increase in the extension of one or more movable members 122 , 137 .
- ECU 132 may send position information electronically to electromagnet 128 using ECU line 130 .
- the altered electronic signal causes a decrease in the repulsion between electromagnet 128 and movable member magnet 126 resulting in a decrease in the extension of one or more movable members 122 , 137 .
- ECU 132 may transmit position information electronically with a reversed polarity to electromagnet 128 using ECU line 130 .
- Electromagnet 128 creates a magnetic field that attracts movable member 122 , 137 and causes movable members 122 , 137 to move from an initial position to a retracted position.
- Some embodiments may include additional provisions to restrict the movement or range of motion of movable member 122 . These provisions assist in controlling the orientation of movable member 122 so that the flow rate and heat transfer rate can be more precisely controlled.
- some embodiments may include provisions for attaching and adjusting movable member 122 with respect to heat exchange conduit 104 .
- An embodiment may include a pivoting mechanism that allows movable member 122 to rotate into and out of the flow field within heat exchange conduit 104 .
- FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic view of a preferred embodiment of movable member 122 and a mechanism that may enable movable member 122 to pivot within heat exchange conduit 104 .
- a portion of heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 may include points of attachment for movable member 122 .
- the points of attachment may include first hinge element 134 and second hinge element 135 .
- First and second hinge elements 134 , 135 may be configured as protrusions that extend from heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 towards the center of heat exchange conduit 104 .
- First and second hinge element secured ends 139 , 143 may be connected to heat exchange conduit inner surface 109 .
- First and second hinge element free ends 141 , 145 may be designed to extend a minimal amount into heat exchange conduit 104 .
- the lengths of first and second hinge elements 134 , 135 may be at least the thickness of movable member 122 and provide enough clearance to move movable member 122 from a retracted position to the distal position.
- First and second hinge element free ends 141 , 145 may include a hole.
- Movable member secured end 123 may also include a hole that extends through the width of movable member 122 .
- Shaft 136 may be inserted through all three holes to allow movable member 122 to move and align with respect to a generated magnetic field. Shaft 136 may also include a mechanism to maintain the shaft within all three holes.
- first and second hinge elements 134 , 135 and shaft 136 allow movable member free end 123 to move to a retracted position, a distal position, or any extended position between the retracted and distal positions.
- movable member 122 represented with solid lines may be a retracted position
- movable member 122 represented with broken lines may be an extended position.
- Some embodiments may also include provisions for restricting the range of motion of movable member 122 .
- a stop 138 positioned behind movable member 122 , may be used to prevent movable member 122 from moving beyond the distal position.
- Stop 138 may be a protrusion attached to and extending into heat exchange conduit 104 in a similar manner as first and second hinge elements 134 , 135 .
- stop 138 may be the same length as first and second hinge elements 134 , 135 .
- the spacing and orientation of stop 138 may vary based on the distal position of movable member 122 .
- stop 138 may be spaced a distance from movable member 122 so that stop 138 does not contact movable member 122 unless movable member 122 shifts to a distal position.
- stop 138 may be designed so that stop free end 149 can range from any position upstream of stop secured end 147 to any position downstream of stop secured end 147 .
- stop 138 may be angled in an upstream direction, in a vertical position, or angled in a downstream direction. Therefore, the orientation of stop 138 may coincide with the orientation of the distal position.
- FIGS. 7-10 show alternative embodiments of the heat exchanger. These alternative embodiments include the installation of heat exchanger 101 within a heat exchange system, control of heat exchange at multiple sections of heat exchange conduit 104 , and a heat exchanger including a casing conduit.
- Some embodiments may involve the installation of heat exchanger 101 within a heat exchange system.
- the heat exchange system includes components that allow first fluid 105 to be heated and cooled.
- FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use.
- first fluid 105 may be heated by device 140 .
- First fluid 105 may then flow through device outlet 146 and into inlet conduit 106 .
- First fluid 105 then flows through heat exchange conduit inlet 108 and into heat exchange conduit 104 .
- Outlet conduit 112 returns first fluid 105 to device 140 through device inlet 148 .
- the heat exchange rate of heat exchanger 101 may be dependant on one or more properties related to device 140 .
- sensor 142 may sense a thermodynamic property of first fluid 105 or device 140 .
- Sensor 142 may then transmit the sensed thermodynamic property to ECU 132 through sensor line 144 .
- Sensor line 144 may provide the sensed thermodynamic property in the form of an electronic signal.
- ECU 132 may have a table that includes the value of a thermodynamic property and the corresponding position information to be transmitted to electromagnet 128 .
- ECU 132 may then transmit the corresponding position information to electromagnet 128 through ECU line 130 .
- Heat exchanger 101 of FIG. 7 may then function similarly to the previously described embodiments.
- Device 140 may be any device that mainly functions to heat a fluid as a byproduct of use.
- device 140 may be a transmission
- first fluid 105 may be transmission fluid.
- Sensor 142 may be capable of sensing one or more thermodynamic properties and may be positioned in various locations within the heat exchange system. Preferably, sensor 142 may sense temperature. In some embodiments, sensor 142 may be located within or on an exterior surface of device 140 . Sensor 142 may be positioned to sense the interior temperature of device 140 or the temperature of first fluid 105 inside device 140 . Preferably and as shown in FIG. 7 , sensor 142 may be positioned on an exterior surface of device 140 .
- the communications link between sensor 142 and ECU 132 may be sensor line 144 , a direct communications link.
- the communications link between sensor 142 and ECU 132 may be a direct communications link or a wireless communications link.
- Some embodiments may include provisions for altering or varying the heat exchange characteristics of a heat exchanger at different sections of the heat exchange conduit 104 . These provisions allow for discrete control of the flow rate and the heat transfer rate throughout heat exchange conduit 104 .
- FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit.
- the embodiment of FIG. 8 may function similarly to previously mentioned embodiments.
- first fluid 205 may flow through conduit 204 .
- Flow in conduit 204 may be impeded by one or more stationary members 224 , 254 .
- Flow may also be impeded by one or more movable members.
- the position of two or more movable members may be individually controlled by ECU 250 .
- movable members 238 , 240 , and 242 may be individually controlled by ECU 250 .
- ECU 250 determines the heat exchange needs of first fluid 205
- ECU 250 may determine that different heat transfer rates within heat exchange conduit 204 are needed. ECU 250 may make this determination based on any desired parameter, including the heat exchange needs of other systems.
- the heat exchange needs are processed, and desired positions for movable members 238 , 240 , and 242 may be determined.
- the position information may be transmitted to electromagnets 244 , 246 , and 248 through ECU lines 232 , 234 , and 236 respectively.
- ECU lines 232 , 234 , and 236 may provide the position information in the form of an electronic signal to energize electromagnets 244 , 246 , and 248 .
- Each electromagnet 244 , 246 , and 248 may be attached to heat exchange conduit exterior surface 252 in the vicinity of movable members 238 , 240 , and 242 respectively.
- the energized electromagnets 244 , 246 , and 248 create their own magnetic fields, and each movable member 238 , 240 , and 242 may move or be repelled away from a respective electromagnet in response to an associated magnetic field. Therefore, the position of each movable member 238 , 240 , and 242 may differ within heat exchange conduit 104 .
- movable member 238 may be in an extended position
- movable member 240 may be in a different extended position
- movable member 242 may be in a retracted position.
- two or more groups of movable members 226 , 228 , and 230 may be individually controlled by ECU 250 .
- FIG. 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of how ECU 250 may control the position of each movable member group 226 , 228 , and 230 based on the position information transmitted through ECU lines 232 , 234 , and 236 .
- each group of movable members may be moved to a specific position. As shown in FIG. 8 , the group of movable members 226 may be in an extended position, while the group of movable members 228 may be in a different extended position and the group of movable members 230 may be in a retracted position.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a portion of heat exchange conduit 204 and three groups of movable members 226 , 228 , and 230 .
- FIG. 8 shows three movable members within each group of movable members 226 , 228 , and 230 .
- Heat exchange conduit 204 may extend in either direction to accommodate any desired number of groups of movable members and any desired number of movable members within each group of movable members.
- the flow field for an embodiment that includes three groups of movable members 226 , 228 , and 230 and a group of stationary members 254 may look similar to the flow fields described and diagrammed for FIGS. 2-5 .
- the flow field will vary based on the position or orientation of each member or group of members. Referring to FIG. 8 , a group of stationary members 254 typically cause eddies to form before and after individual stationary members within the group of stationary members 254 .
- a group of extended movable members 226 and 228 typically cause eddies to form before and after each individual movable member.
- the flow field between movable members 228 and stationary members 254 may be less turbulent than the flow field between movable members 226 and stationary members 254 because movable members 226 may be extended further into the flow field.
- a group of retracted movable members 230 may allow a generally laminar flow field to form near movable members 230 , and turbulence typically increases near stationary members 254 .
- the flow field may become less turbulent as the fluid flows from left to right through heat exchange conduit 204 .
- second fluid 107 may flow freely past one or more exterior surfaces of heat exchanger 101 .
- other embodiments may include provisions for channeling second fluid 107 directly to and around heat exchange conduit 104 .
- the provisions may provide for more continuous and consistent heat transfer.
- FIG. 9 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit.
- FIG. 10 is a schematic end view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit.
- an encased heat exchanger 100 may include casing inlet conduit 114 that carries second fluid 107 to casing conduit 102 through casing conduit inlet 116 .
- second fluid 107 flows through casing conduit interior 103 .
- Casing conduit interior 103 may be defined or bounded by casing conduit inner surface 115 .
- second fluid 107 may leave casing conduit 102 and enter casing outlet conduit 120 through casing conduit outlet 118 .
- the flow path of first fluid 105 may be similar to the previously mentioned embodiments.
- heat exchange conduit 104 resides within casing conduit interior 103 .
- Conduits 102 and 104 may be sealed so that first fluid 105 does not leak into casing conduit interior 103 and second fluid 107 does not leak into heat exchange conduit interior 111 .
- encased heat exchanger 100 may include provisions for altering the flow rate of second fluid 107 , and therefore, increasing or decreasing the heat transfer rate of encased heat exchanger 100 .
- These provisions may include a mechanism, such as a pump, for controlling the flow rate of second fluid 107 .
- the provisions may also include stationary members and movable members located on heat exchange conduit exterior surface 113 , casing conduit inner surface 115 , and casing conduit exterior surface 117 .
- Some embodiments may include provisions for recessing a movable member within a heat exchange conduit when the movable member may be in the retracted position. These provisions may allow for minimal interference of the movable member with the flow of fluid when the movable member is in the retracted position.
- FIG. 11 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including a retracted movable member within a recess or protrusion of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 12 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including an extended movable member and a protrusion on a heat exchange conduit.
- heat exchange conduit 304 may include a heat exchange conduit protrusion 356 that bounds heat exchange conduit recess 357 .
- Movable member 322 may reside entirely or partially within heat exchange conduit recess 357 .
- Movable member secured end 323 may be connected to heat exchange conduit protrusion inner surface 359 .
- movable member 322 When movable member 322 is in a retracted position, movable member 322 may reside entirely in heat exchange conduit recess 357 . In a preferred embodiment, movable member side 361 lies flush with heat exchange conduit inner surface 309 when movable member 322 is in the retracted position. When movable member 322 is in an extended position, movable member 322 may protrude into the flow path of heat exchange conduit 304 .
- movable member 322 may vary in different embodiments.
- a notable difference between movable member 122 and movable member 322 may be the preferred shape.
- movable member 322 may be wedge-shaped.
- movable member 322 may be of any shape including a rectangular flat plate.
- heat exchange conduit recess 357 may vary in different embodiments.
- the shape and size of heat exchange conduit recess 357 may be any shape and size that allows at least a portion of movable member 322 to lie within heat exchange conduit recess 357 .
- heat exchange conduit recess 357 may be larger than and shaped similarly to movable member 322 and have only enough clearance to allow movable member 322 to move from a retracted position to an extended position.
- the spacing of heat exchange conduit recess 357 from other portions of heat exchange conduit 304 may be such that heat exchange conduit recess 357 aligns with the location and orientation of movable member 322 .
- heat exchange conduit protrusion 356 may vary in different embodiments.
- Heat exchange conduit protrusion interior surface 359 bounds heat exchange conduit recess 357 . Therefore, heat exchange conduit protrusion interior surface 359 has the shape and size of heat exchange conduit recess 357 .
- the shape of heat exchange conduit protrusion exterior surface 363 may be any shape. Preferably, the shape may be similar to the shape of heat exchange conduit protrusion interior surface 359 and provide sufficient surface area for the heat exchange conduit's control system to communicate with movable member magnet 326 . However, the shape of heat exchange conduit protrusion exterior surface 363 need not be shaped similarly to heat exchange conduit protrusion interior surface 359 .
- the size of heat exchange conduit protrusion exterior surface 363 may be any size that may be larger than the size of heat exchange conduit recess 357 .
- the spacing of heat exchange conduit protrusion 356 from other portions of heat exchange conduit 304 may be such that heat exchange conduit protrusion 356 aligns with the location of movable member 322 .
- some embodiments may include more than one movable member.
- each movable member preferably has its own heat exchange conduit protrusion and heat exchange conduit recess.
- one or more movable members may reside in one heat exchange conduit protrusion and an associated heat exchange conduit recess.
- the shape, size, orientation, and spacing of the group of movable members may vary.
- the spacing between individual members of a group of movable members may vary from one embodiment to another.
- the distance between the individual members within a group of movable members may be approximately equal to the length of an individual movable member within the group of movable members.
- heat exchange conduit 304 may include first fluid 305 flowing through the heat exchange conduit interior 311 .
- the flow field within heat exchange conduit 304 may vary. Additionally, the flow field may vary based on the orientation or position of movable member 322 and other movable members. The flow field may resemble those previously described for movable members 122 , 133 , and 137 .
- movable members 322 , 333 , and 337 may be recessed when in a retracted position, the flow may be more laminar than in previous embodiments where the movable members may not be recessed.
- Embodiments including movable member 322 may also include a control system comprising an electromagnet and other electrical components as described in previous embodiments.
- the electromagnet may be activated to attract or repel a movable member magnet depending on the heat transfer needed.
- Electromagnet 328 may be located near the heat exchange conduit protrusion exterior surface 363 and preferably in the vicinity of movable member 322 and movable member magnet 326 .
- heat exchange conduit recess 357 may include a pivoting mechanism that allows movable member 322 to move from a retracted position, within heat exchange conduit recess 357 , to an extended position, where movable member free end 321 moves to into heat exchange conduit 304 to impede flow.
- the pivoting mechanism may be attached to movable member 322 near movable member secured end 323 and to heat exchange conduit protrusion interior surface 359 .
- the pivoting mechanism may be similar to that discussed in previous embodiments and illustrated in FIG. 6 .
- This mechanism may include protrusions that extend toward movable member 322 from heat exchange conduit protrusion interior surface 359 and attach to movable member 322 via shaft 336 .
- Some embodiments may also include provisions for restricting the range of motion of movable member 322 .
- a stop 338 may be used to prevent movable member 322 from moving beyond the distal position. Stop 338 may be an extension of heat exchange conduit 304 , and it may extend into heat exchange conduit recess 357 . To contact stop 338 and prevent movable member 322 from moving beyond a distal position, movable member 322 may include movable member extension 358 . When movable member 322 moves from a retracted position to the distal position, movable member extension side 360 contacts stop side 362 and prevents movable member 322 from moving beyond the distal position.
- stop 338 and movable member extension 358 may vary based on the distal position of movable member 322 .
- Stop 338 and movable member extension 358 may be of any shape, length, or orientation.
- stop 338 may protrude at an angle into heat exchange conduit recess 357 , at an angle into heat exchange conduit interior 311 , or at no angle and lie parallel to heat exchange conduit 304 .
- stop 338 and movable member extension 358 do not contact each other unless movable member 322 shifts to a distal position.
- Embodiments of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use may incorporate one or more movable members that may be recessed within a heat exchange conduit protrusion.
- Heat exchanger 101 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments.
- Embodiments of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit may incorporate one or more movable members that may be recessed within heat exchange conduit protrusion.
- the heat exchanger of FIG. 8 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments.
- Embodiments of a heat exchanger with a casing conduit may incorporate one or more movable members that may be recessed within a heat exchange conduit protrusion. Heat exchanger 100 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments.
- Some embodiments may include provisions for translating or extending a movable member from a retracted position to an extended position. These provisions impede flow within a heat exchange conduit without the use of a pivoting mechanism.
- FIG. 13 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including retracted movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 14 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including extended movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.
- heat exchange conduit 404 may include a heat exchange conduit recess 457 .
- Movable member 422 may reside entirely or partially within heat exchange conduit recess 357 .
- Movable member secured end 423 may be connected to movable body 464 at movable body side 465 .
- Movable member free end 421 may have an extreme end that defines a tip surface. In a preferred embodiment, the tip surface may lie flush with or in the same plane as heat exchange conduit inner surface 409 .
- movable member 422 and movable body 464 When movable member 422 and movable body 464 are in an extended position, movable member 422 may protrude into the flow path of heat exchange conduit 404 .
- FIG. 15 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including retracted movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIG. 16 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including extended movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.
- FIGS. 15 and 16 show a movable member 422 that has a rectangular flat plate shape.
- heat exchange conduit recess 457 may vary in different embodiments.
- the shape and size of heat exchange conduit recess 457 may be any shape and size that allows at least a portion of movable member 322 and movable body 464 to lie within heat exchange conduit recess 457 .
- heat exchange conduit recess 457 may be larger than movable member 422 and movable body 464 and shaped similarly to movable body 464 .
- heat exchange conduit recess 457 may also have only enough clearance to allow movable member 422 and movable body 464 to move from a retracted position to an extended position.
- the spacing of heat exchange conduit recess 457 from other portions of heat exchange conduit 404 should be such that heat exchange conduit recess 457 aligns with the location and orientation of movable member 422 and movable body 464 .
- heat exchange conduit 404 may include a group of movable members 437 .
- each movable member may be connected to one movable body and reside in one heat exchange conduit recess.
- a group of movable members 437 may be connected to a single movable body 464 and reside in one heat exchange conduit recess 457 .
- the free ends of a group of movable members 437 may have extreme ends that defining a tip surface. In a preferred embodiment, the tip surfaces may lie flush with or in the same plane as heat exchange conduit inner surface 409 .
- the shape, size, orientation and spacing of the group movable members 437 may also vary.
- the spacing between individual members of the group of movable members 437 may vary from one embodiment to another.
- the distance between the individual movable members within a group of movable members 437 may be approximately half the length of an individual movable member within the group of movable members 437 .
- heat exchange conduit 404 may include first fluid 405 flowing through heat exchange conduit interior 411 .
- the flow field within heat exchange conduit 404 may vary. Additionally, the flow field may vary based on the orientation or position of movable member 422 and other movable members. The flow field may resemble those previously described for movable members 122 , 133 , and 137 .
- the movable members 422 , 433 , and 437 may be recessed when in a retracted position, the flow may be more laminar than in previous embodiments where the movable members may not be recessed.
- Embodiments may also include a control system comprising an electromagnet and other electrical components as described in previous embodiments.
- the electromagnet may be activated to attract or repel a movable member magnet depending on the heat transfer needed.
- Electromagnet 428 may be located near heat exchange conduit exterior surface 413 and preferably in the vicinity of movable member 422 and movable member magnet 426 .
- heat exchange conduit recess 457 may include a sliding mechanism that allows movable member 422 and movable body 464 to move from a retracted position, within heat exchange conduit recess 457 , to an extended position, where movable member free end 421 moves into heat exchange conduit 404 to impede flow.
- the sliding mechanism may be attached to movable body 464 .
- Sliding element 466 may be configured in one or more pieces that extend wholly or partially through movable body 464 .
- Sliding element 466 may also be slidably connected to heat exchange conduit recess surface 459 . However, sliding element 466 may not continuously contact heat exchange conduit recess surface 459 .
- Sliding element 466 may be designed to extend towards heat exchange conduit recess surface 459 so that movable member 422 and movable body 464 have little clearance to move laterally.
- Heat exchange conduit recess 457 may also be designed so that the portions that receive sliding element 466 may be slots.
- Some embodiments may also include provisions for restricting the range of motion of movable member 422 .
- Stops 468 and 470 may be used to prevent movable member 422 from moving beyond the distal position. Stops 468 and 470 may be extensions of heat exchange conduit 404 that extend into heat exchange conduit recess 457 .
- sliding element 466 may be utilized to contact stops 468 and 470 and prevent movable member 422 from moving beyond the distal position.
- the ends of sliding element 466 may contact sides 472 and 474 of stops 468 and 470 and prevent movable member 422 from moving beyond the distal position.
- stops 468 and 470 and sliding element 466 may vary based on the distal position of movable member 422 .
- Stops 468 and 470 and sliding element 466 may be of any shape, length, or orientation.
- stops 468 and 470 may protrude at an angle into heat exchange conduit recess 457 , at an angle into heat exchange conduit interior 411 , or at no angle and lie parallel to heat exchange conduit 404 .
- stops 468 and 470 and sliding element 466 do not contact each other unless movable member 422 shifts to a distal position.
- Embodiments of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use may incorporate one or more movable members 422 , 437 that move from a retracted position to an extended position.
- Heat exchanger 101 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments.
- Embodiments of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit may incorporate one or more movable members 422 , 437 that move from a retracted position to an extended position.
- the heat exchanger of FIG. 8 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments.
- Embodiments of a heat exchanger with a casing conduit may incorporate one or move movable members 422 , 437 that move from a retracted position to an extended position.
- Heat exchanger 100 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments.
Abstract
A heat exchanger is designed with variable heat transfer properties. The apparatus may include provisions for altering or varying the heat exchange characteristics of a heat exchanger by using one or more movable members that are connected to the inner surface of a heat exchange conduit to impede flow. The movable members may be positioned in a number of desired positions depending on the heat transfer rate needed.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to a heat exchanger, and more specifically to a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties.
- 2. Description of Related Art
- Various kinds of heat exchangers have been proposed. One example is U.S. patent publication 20070039721 to Murray. The Murray patent describes a heat exchanger that electromagnetically actuates and controls heat transfer by using electromagnets. One of the heat exchange fluids is a slurry consisting of tiny, highly conductive particles made of metal or metal oxides. When a signal is transmitted to an electromagnet by an amplifier, a magnetic field is created near the conduit wall. The particles in the fluid are attracted to the conduit wall resulting in increased heat transfer from the conduit wall to the particles and ultimately to the fluid.
- Some heat exchangers include features that assist in the heat transfer process. One example is U.S. Pat. No. 6,241,467 to Zelesky et al. that teaches a cooled stator vane in a gas turbine engine. The vane is cooled by flowing cooling air through a passage inside the vane. Part of the passage is provided with stationary chevron shaped trip strips that angle in the direction of flow. The trip strips are used to increase convective heat transfer by creating vortices in the flow. In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 2,930,405 to Welsh teaches stationary fin members that extend longitudinally within a heat exchanger tube. The fin members improve heat transfer by increasing the surface area for heat transfer within the tube.
- Therefore, there exists a need in the art for a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties that can be varied on demand, is easily controlled, and can reduce the number of components intruding into the fluid stream.
- A heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties is disclosed.
- In one aspect, the apparatus may include provisions for altering or varying the heat exchange characteristics of a heat exchanger by using one or more movable members that are connected to the inner surface of a heat exchange conduit.
- In another aspect, the apparatus may include one or more stationary members to impede flow within the heat exchange conduit.
- In another aspect, the stationary member free ends may be positioned downstream of the stationary member secured ends.
- In another aspect, the movable members may be positioned in a number of desired positions depending on the heat transfer rate needed.
- In another aspect, the desired position may include an extended position where the movable members may protrude into the flow path and impede flow inside the heat exchange conduit.
- In another aspect, the desired position may be a distal position defined as the maximum extended position.
- In another aspect, the desired position may include a retracted position, where the movable members minimally impede flow and are proximal to the portion of the heat exchange conduit inner surface that may be associated with the movable members.
- In another aspect, the apparatus may include provisions for attaching and adjusting the movable members.
- In another aspect, the apparatus may include provisions for impeding the range of motion of the movable members.
- In another aspect, the apparatus may include a heat exchange system that includes a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use.
- In another aspect, the apparatus may include provisions for altering or varying the heat exchange characteristics of a heat exchanger at different sections of a heat exchange conduit.
- In another aspect, the heat exchanger may include a casing conduit for directing the flow of a second fluid.
- In another aspect, the heat exchanger may include a retracted movable member that resides within a recess in a heat exchanger conduit.
- In another aspect, the heat exchanger may include movable members that translate or extend when moving from a retracted position to an extended position.
- Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the following claims.
- The invention can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger; -
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with movable members in a retracted position; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with movable members in an extended position; -
FIG. 4 is a preferred embodiment as shown inFIG. 2 including a diagram of a possible flow field; -
FIG. 5 is a preferred embodiment as shown inFIG. 3 including a diagram of a possible flow field; -
FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a movable member; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit; -
FIG. 9 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit; and -
FIG. 10 is a schematic end view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit. -
FIG. 11 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including a retracted movable member within a recess or protrusion of a heat exchange conduit. -
FIG. 12 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including an extended movable member and a protrusion on a heat exchange conduit. -
FIG. 13 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including retracted movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit. -
FIG. 14 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including extended movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit. -
FIG. 15 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including retracted movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit. -
FIG. 16 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including extended movable members slidably received within a recess of a heat exchange conduit - Embodiments of the present invention include a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties. In some embodiments, heat transfer properties may be varied by altering the flow of a first fluid through the heat exchanger.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of aheat exchanger 101. Referring toFIG. 1 , aheat exchanger 101 may includeinlet conduit 106 that carries afirst fluid 105 toheat exchange conduit 104 through heatexchange conduit inlet 108. Generally,first fluid 105 flows through heat exchange conduit interior 111. Heat exchange conduit interior 111 may be defined or bounded by heat exchange conduitinner surface 109. After passing throughheat exchange conduit 104,first fluid 105 may leaveheat exchange conduit 104 and enteroutlet conduit 112 through heatexchange conduit outlet 110. -
Heat exchange conduit 104 may facilitate heat transfer betweenfirst fluid 105 and asecond fluid 107. As depicted inFIG. 1 ,second fluid 107 may flow past one or more exterior surfaces ofheat exchanger 101.First fluid 105 may contact heat exchange conduitinner surface 109, andsecond fluid 107 may contact one more exterior surfaces ofheat exchanger 101, including heat exchange conduitexterior surface 113. This arrangement helps to transfer heat betweenfirst fluid 105 andsecond fluid 107. - In some embodiments, the temperature of
first fluid 105 may be higher than the temperature ofsecond fluid 107. In these cases,first fluid 105 may heat theheat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduitinner surface 109 to heat exchange conduitexterior surface 113.Second fluid 107 may coolheat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduitexterior surface 113 to heat exchange conduitinner surface 109. In this manner, heat may be transferred fromfirst fluid 105 tosecond fluid 107. In other embodiments, the temperature ofsecond fluid 107 may be higher than the temperature offirst fluid 105. In these cases,second fluid 107 may heat theheat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduitexterior surface 113 to heat exchange conduitinner surface 109.First fluid 105 may coolheat exchange conduit 104 from heat exchange conduitinner surface 109 to heat exchange conduitexterior surface 113. In this manner, heat may be transferred fromsecond fluid 107 tofirst fluid 105. - Some embodiments may include provisions for increasing or decreasing the rate of heat transfer of
heat exchanger 101. In some cases, the heat transfer rate may be controlled by controlling the fluid flow characteristics of one or more of the working fluids associated withheat exchanger 101. Some embodiments may include provisions for altering or controlling the fluid flow properties withinheat exchange conduit 104. Preferably, these provisions include one or more mechanisms disposed withinheat exchange conduit 104. - In some
embodiments heat exchanger 101 may be utilized as a different kind of device. For example, the apparatus may be used as a device to control fluid flow characteristics within a system. In other words,heat exchanger 101 may be used as a throttling device to control flow exitingheat exchange conduit 104. - Referring to
FIG. 2 ,heat exchange conduit 104 may encasestationary member 124. By usingstationary member 124 to impede flow throughheat exchange conduit 104, the flow rate offirst fluid 105 may be controlled. Stationary member securedend 127 may be connected to heat exchange conduitinner surface 109. Stationary memberfree end 125 may protrude into the flow path ofheat exchange conduit 104. - In different embodiments, the shape, size, orientation, and spacing of a
stationary member 124 may vary. The shape ofstationary member 124 may be any shape that impedes flow. Preferably,stationary member 124 is a rectangular flat plate. However, in other embodiments,stationary member 124 may be another shape. In one embodiment,stationary member 124 may protrude any distance intoheat exchange conduit 104. Preferably, stationary memberfree end 125 may protrude no more than half the height ofheat exchange conduit 104. In one embodiment,stationary member 124 may be designed so that stationary memberfree end 125 can range from any position upstream of stationary membersecured end 127 to any position downstream of stationary membersecured end 127. In other words,stationary member 124 may be angled in an upstream direction, in a vertical position, or angled in a downstream direction. In an exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 2 , stationary memberfree end 125 may be positioned downstream of stationary membersecured end 127 or rather, angled in a downstream direction. In other embodiments, the spacing ofstationary member 124 from heatexchange conduit inlet 108 may vary.Stationary member 124 may be positioned withinheat exchange conduit 104 any distance from heatexchange conduit inlet 108. Preferably, the distance betweenstationary member 124 and heatexchange conduit inlet 108 may be no more than one-half the length ofheat exchange conduit 104. - Some embodiments may include more than one stationary member. In an exemplary embodiment shown in the figures,
heat exchange conduit 104 may include a group ofstationary members 131. Similar tostationary member 124, the group ofstationary members 131 may be connected to and protrude intoheat exchange conduit 104. Also similar tostationary member 124, the shape, size, orientation, and spacing of the group ofstationary members 131 may vary. In addition, the spacing between individual members of the group ofstationary members 131 may vary from one embodiment to another. Preferably, the distance between the individual members within a group ofstationary members 131 may be approximately equal to the length of an individual stationary member within the group ofstationary members 131. - Typically, impeding flow in a conduit causes turbulence within the conduit and increased mixing. Increased mixing typically increases heat transfer. Therefore, the heat transfer rate between
first fluid 105 andsecond fluid 107 may be increased. In addition, heat transfer betweenfirst fluid 105 andsecond fluid 107 may increase further as the impedance onfirst fluid 105 increases. Generally, the greater the number ofstationary members 131 and the greater the extension ofstationary members 131 intoheat exchange conduit 104, the greater the possibility of increasing heat transfer. - Generally, the flow field within a heat exchange conduit varies based on a number of factors including the size and position of heat
exchange conduit inlet 108, fluid speed, path obstructions, and smoothness of heat exchange conduitinner surface 109. In a heat exchange conduit where the flow of a fluid is unobstructed and the walls are relatively smooth, the flow field is generally laminar. In an embodiment where there may be onestationary member 124 positioned within aheat exchange conduit 104,first fluid 105 may impinge onstationary member 124 typically creating one or more eddies behindstationary member 124. The faster the speed of the fluid the more likely one or more eddies will also be created in front ofstationary member 124. Generally, the further away portions offirst fluid 105 are fromstationary member 124 the less turbulent and more laminar the flow field becomes. - In an embodiment where there maybe two
stationary members stationary member 124.Stationary members stationary members stationary member 129. - In another embodiment including a group of
stationary members 131, the flow field may look similar to the previously mentioned examples. However, the group ofstationary members 131 will typically cause eddies to form between individual members of the group ofstationary members 131 and behind the most downstream member of the group ofstationary members 131. - In addition to or instead of one or more stationary members, a
movable member 122 may be used to impede flow throughheat exchange conduit 104, and thereby alter the flow characteristics and heat exchange characteristics ofheat exchanger 101. However, unlike the stationary members,movable member 122 may be adjusted during the operation ofheat exchanger 101 to increase or decrease the flow rate and heat transfer rate.Movable member 122 may be positioned in a number of desired positions depending on the heat transfer rate needed. Desired positions may include retracted positions or extended positions. -
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment in a retracted position.FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the preferred embodiment in an extended position. Referring toFIGS. 2 and 3 ,heat exchange conduit 104 may encasemovable member 122. By usingmovable member 122 to impede flow throughheat exchange conduit 104, the flow rate offirst fluid 105 may be controlled. Movable member securedend 123 may be connected to heat exchange conduitinner surface 109. Movable memberfree end 121 may protrude into the flow path ofheat exchange conduit 104. - As illustrated in
FIG. 2 ,movable member 122 may be positioned in a retracted position. In a retracted position, the entire body ofmovable member 122 may be positioned close to the portion of heat exchange conduitinner surface 109 associated withmovable member 122. Therefore, whenmovable member 122 may be in a retracted position, it may minimally interfere with or impede the flow offirst fluid 105. For example, in some cases, a portion ofmovable member 122 may touch the portion of heat exchange conduitinner surface 109 associated withmovable member 122. In another example,movable member 122 may be parallel to the portion of heat exchange conduitinner surface 109 associated withmovable member 122. In yet another example, a portion of eachmovable member 122 may minimally interfere with the flow offirst fluid 105 by a depth less than five percent of the length ofmovable member 122. - As illustrated in
FIG. 3 ,movable member 122 may be positioned in an extended position. Preferably, the extended position may be a position different than the retracted position. Movingmember 122 may assume a number of different extended positions. The distal position may be defined as the maximum extended position or the extended position that may be the maximum distance from the retracted position. - In the same manner as
stationary member 124, the shape, size, and spacing ofmovable member 122 may vary in different embodiments. The shape ofmovable member 122 may be any shape that impedes flow. Preferably,movable member 122 is a rectangular flat plate. However, in other embodiments,movable member 122 may be another shape. In some embodiments,movable member 122 may protrude any distance intoheat exchange conduit 104. Preferably, movable memberfree end 121 may protrude no more than half the height ofheat exchange conduit 104. However, in some embodiments, movable memberfree end 121 may protrude beyond half the height ofheat exchange conduit 104. In other embodiments, the spacing ofmovable member 122 from heatexchange conduit inlet 108 may vary.Movable member 122 may be positioned withinheat exchange conduit 104 any distance from heatexchange conduit inlet 108. Preferably, the distance betweenmovable member 122 and heatexchange conduit inlet 108 may be no more than one-half the length ofheat exchange conduit 104. However, in other embodiments, this distance may vary. In embodiments where astationary member 124 and amovable member 122 may be encased inheat exchange conduit 104, it may also be preferable to size and spacemovable member 122 so that it does not contactstationary member 124. - Some embodiments may include more than one movable member. In an exemplary embodiment shown in the figures,
heat exchange conduit 104 may include a group ofmovable members 137. Similar tomovable member 122, the group ofmovable members 137 may be connected to and protrude intoheat exchange conduit 104. Also similar tomovable member 122, the size and spacing of the group ofmovable members 137 may vary. In addition, the spacing between individual members of the group ofmovable members 137 may vary from one embodiment to another. In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the individual members within a group ofmovable members 137 may be approximately equal to the length of an individual movable member within the group ofmovable members 137. - However, the size and spacing of the group of
movable members 137 does not necessarily need to correspond with the size and spacing of the group ofstationary members 131. In other words, an individual movable member may be larger or smaller than an individual stationary member, and the spacing between individual movable members may be larger or smaller than the spacing between individual stationary members. - In other embodiments that may use a
movable member 122 or more than one movable member, the flow field withinheat exchange conduit 104 may vary. Additionally, the flow field may vary based on the orientation or position ofmovable member 122 and other movable members. - In some cases, the flow field may resemble the flow fields that include
stationary members movable member 122 opposite to the location of astationary member 124, less laminar flow may exist asmovable member 122 moves from a retracted position to an extended position. In an extended position,first fluid 105 may impinge onmovable member 122 typically creating one or more eddies within the flow field behindmovable member 122. - In an embodiment where there may be two extended
movable members Movable members movable members movable member 133. - In another embodiment shown in
FIG. 3 including a group ofmovable members 137, the flow field may look similar to the previously mentioned examples. However, a group ofmovable members 137 will typically cause eddies to form between individual movable members within a group ofmovable members 137 and behind the most downstream movable member within a group ofmovable members 137. -
FIG. 4 shows the preferred embodiment ofFIG. 2 including a diagram of a possible flow field.FIG. 5 shows the preferred embodiment ofFIG. 3 including a diagram of a possible flow field. The majority of the reference numerals were removed fromFIGS. 4 and 5 so that the flow fields could be more clearly seen, but the same reference numerals used inFIGS. 2 and 3 are utilized inFIGS. 4 and 5 . InFIG. 4 , the flow field near the retractedmovable members 137 is generally laminar and turbulence increases near thestationary members 131. Eddies can be seen before and after each stationary member. InFIG. 5 , themovable members 137 and thestationary members 131 extend into the flow field and create turbulence throughout the conduit. Eddies can be seen before and after each movable and stationary member. - Preferably,
heat exchanger 101 includes provisions for moving and controllingmovable member 122, and thereby, adjusting the flow field. Controlling the position of themovable member 122 allows a user to change the fluid flow conditions and heat transfer rate ofheat exchanger 101 on demand. - In some embodiments, the control system used to control the motion of
movable member 122 operates in a manner as to avoid or eliminate the intrusion of additional parts or components that protrude intoheat exchange conduit 104. In other words, some embodiments may include non-invasive control systems. - Some embodiments of
heat exchanger 101 may include an electronic control system that can control the position ofmovable member 122. Preferably, the control system includes a control unit able to remotely control the position ofmovable member 122 whileheat exchanger 101 operates. The control system may use either a direct communications link or a wireless communications link to communicate withmovable member 122. In some embodiments, both direct and wireless communications methods may be used. - In different embodiments,
ECU 132 may include a number of ports that facilitate the input and output of information and power. The term “port” means any interface or shared boundary between two conductors. In some cases, ports may facilitate the insertion and removal of conductors. Examples of these types of ports include mechanical connectors. In other cases, ports are interfaces that generally do not provide easy insertion or removal. Examples of these types of ports include soldering or electron traces on circuit boards. Some embodiments may include a given port or provision, while others may exclude it. - In a preferred embodiment as illustrated in
FIGS. 2 and 3 , the control system may comprise an electronic control unit (ECU) 132, anECU line 130,electromagnet 128, andmovable member magnet 126. In this embodiment,ECU 132,ECU line 130, andelectromagnet 128 wirelessly communicate withmovable member 122 andmovable member magnet 126. However,ECU line 130 provides a direct communications link betweenECU 132 andelectromagnet 128. - In operation,
ECU 132 first determines the degree of cooling or heating needed forfirst fluid 105.ECU 132 may make this determination based on any desired parameter, including the heat exchange needs of other systems. Second, the heat exchange needs may be processed, and a desired position formovable member 122 maybe determined. Third, the position information may be transmitted toelectromagnet 128 throughECU line 130.ECU line 130 may provide the position information in the form of an electronic signal that may energizeelectromagnet 128. Fourth, the energizedelectromagnet 128 generally creates a magnetic field.Electromagnet 128 may be attached to heat exchange conduitexterior surface 113 in the vicinity ofmovable member 122. Finally,movable member magnet 126 may move or be repelled away fromelectromagnet 128 in response to the generated magnetic field. The characteristics of the magnetic field are typically dependant on the electronic signal transmitted throughECU line 130. - In a preferred embodiment,
movable member magnet 126 may be a permanent magnet. In other embodiments,movable member 122, instead of includingmovable member magnet 126, may be magnetized. - As previously indicated,
ECU 132 may determine the heat exchange needs offirst fluid 105. For example,ECU 132 may determine that an increase in the heat transfer rate is needed. The ECU may process the heat transfer information and may determine and transmit position information electronically toelectromagnet 128 usingECU line 130. The initial position of one or moremovable members electromagnet 128 andmovable member magnet 126 resulting in an increase in the extension of one or moremovable members - If
ECU 132 determines that less heat transfer is needed, the ECU may send position information electronically toelectromagnet 128 usingECU line 130. The altered electronic signal causes a decrease in the repulsion betweenelectromagnet 128 andmovable member magnet 126 resulting in a decrease in the extension of one or moremovable members - If
ECU 132 determines that a minimum amount of heat transfer is needed, the ECU may transmit position information electronically with a reversed polarity toelectromagnet 128 usingECU line 130.Electromagnet 128 creates a magnetic field that attractsmovable member movable members - In an alternative embodiment, if the ECU determines that a minimum amount of heat transfer is needed, the ECU may cease to transmit position information electronically. Instead, the force of
first fluid 105 may pushmovable members movable member magnet 126 nears the metal core ofelectromagnet 128, the natural attraction between the two allowsmovable members - Some embodiments may include additional provisions to restrict the movement or range of motion of
movable member 122. These provisions assist in controlling the orientation ofmovable member 122 so that the flow rate and heat transfer rate can be more precisely controlled. - In order to restrict the movement of
movable member 122, some embodiments may include provisions for attaching and adjustingmovable member 122 with respect to heatexchange conduit 104. An embodiment may include a pivoting mechanism that allowsmovable member 122 to rotate into and out of the flow field withinheat exchange conduit 104. -
FIG. 6 is an enlarged schematic view of a preferred embodiment ofmovable member 122 and a mechanism that may enablemovable member 122 to pivot withinheat exchange conduit 104. Referring toFIG. 6 , a portion of heat exchange conduitinner surface 109 may include points of attachment formovable member 122. The points of attachment may includefirst hinge element 134 andsecond hinge element 135. - First and
second hinge elements inner surface 109 towards the center ofheat exchange conduit 104. First and second hinge element secured ends 139, 143 may be connected to heat exchange conduitinner surface 109. First and second hinge element free ends 141, 145 may be designed to extend a minimal amount intoheat exchange conduit 104. The lengths of first andsecond hinge elements movable member 122 and provide enough clearance to movemovable member 122 from a retracted position to the distal position. - First and second hinge element free ends 141, 145 may include a hole. Movable member secured
end 123 may also include a hole that extends through the width ofmovable member 122.Shaft 136 may be inserted through all three holes to allowmovable member 122 to move and align with respect to a generated magnetic field.Shaft 136 may also include a mechanism to maintain the shaft within all three holes. - If
ECU 132 determines an increase, decrease, or minimal heat transfer rate is needed, first andsecond hinge elements shaft 136 allow movable memberfree end 123 to move to a retracted position, a distal position, or any extended position between the retracted and distal positions. As depicted inFIG. 6 ,movable member 122 represented with solid lines, may be a retracted position, andmovable member 122 represented with broken lines, may be an extended position. - Some embodiments may also include provisions for restricting the range of motion of
movable member 122. Referring toFIG. 6 , astop 138, positioned behindmovable member 122, may be used to preventmovable member 122 from moving beyond the distal position. Stop 138 may be a protrusion attached to and extending intoheat exchange conduit 104 in a similar manner as first andsecond hinge elements second hinge elements - In different embodiments, the spacing and orientation of
stop 138 may vary based on the distal position ofmovable member 122. For example, stop 138 may be spaced a distance frommovable member 122 so thatstop 138 does not contactmovable member 122 unlessmovable member 122 shifts to a distal position. In addition, stop 138 may be designed so that stopfree end 149 can range from any position upstream of stopsecured end 147 to any position downstream of stopsecured end 147. In other words, stop 138 may be angled in an upstream direction, in a vertical position, or angled in a downstream direction. Therefore, the orientation ofstop 138 may coincide with the orientation of the distal position. -
FIGS. 7-10 show alternative embodiments of the heat exchanger. These alternative embodiments include the installation ofheat exchanger 101 within a heat exchange system, control of heat exchange at multiple sections ofheat exchange conduit 104, and a heat exchanger including a casing conduit. - Some embodiments may involve the installation of
heat exchanger 101 within a heat exchange system. The heat exchange system includes components that allowfirst fluid 105 to be heated and cooled. -
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use. Referring toFIG. 7 ,first fluid 105 may be heated bydevice 140.First fluid 105 may then flow throughdevice outlet 146 and intoinlet conduit 106.First fluid 105 then flows through heatexchange conduit inlet 108 and intoheat exchange conduit 104. After exitingheat exchange conduit 104 through heatexchange conduit outlet 110,first fluid 105 flows intooutlet conduit 112.Outlet conduit 112 returnsfirst fluid 105 todevice 140 throughdevice inlet 148. - The heat exchange rate of
heat exchanger 101 may be dependant on one or more properties related todevice 140. For example,sensor 142 may sense a thermodynamic property offirst fluid 105 ordevice 140.Sensor 142 may then transmit the sensed thermodynamic property toECU 132 throughsensor line 144.Sensor line 144 may provide the sensed thermodynamic property in the form of an electronic signal.ECU 132 may have a table that includes the value of a thermodynamic property and the corresponding position information to be transmitted toelectromagnet 128.ECU 132 may then transmit the corresponding position information toelectromagnet 128 throughECU line 130.Heat exchanger 101 ofFIG. 7 may then function similarly to the previously described embodiments. -
Device 140 may be any device that mainly functions to heat a fluid as a byproduct of use. For example, in some embodiments,device 140 may be a transmission, andfirst fluid 105 may be transmission fluid. -
Sensor 142 may be capable of sensing one or more thermodynamic properties and may be positioned in various locations within the heat exchange system. Preferably,sensor 142 may sense temperature. In some embodiments,sensor 142 may be located within or on an exterior surface ofdevice 140.Sensor 142 may be positioned to sense the interior temperature ofdevice 140 or the temperature offirst fluid 105inside device 140. Preferably and as shown inFIG. 7 ,sensor 142 may be positioned on an exterior surface ofdevice 140. - In the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 7 , the communications link betweensensor 142 andECU 132 may besensor line 144, a direct communications link. However, like the communications link betweenECU 132 andelectromagnet 128, the communications link betweensensor 142 andECU 132 may be a direct communications link or a wireless communications link. - Some embodiments may include provisions for altering or varying the heat exchange characteristics of a heat exchanger at different sections of the
heat exchange conduit 104. These provisions allow for discrete control of the flow rate and the heat transfer rate throughoutheat exchange conduit 104. -
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit. The embodiment ofFIG. 8 may function similarly to previously mentioned embodiments. Referring toFIG. 8 ,first fluid 205 may flow throughconduit 204. Flow inconduit 204 may be impeded by one or morestationary members - The position of two or more movable members may be individually controlled by
ECU 250. For example,movable members ECU 250. WhenECU 250 determines the heat exchange needs offirst fluid 205,ECU 250 may determine that different heat transfer rates withinheat exchange conduit 204 are needed.ECU 250 may make this determination based on any desired parameter, including the heat exchange needs of other systems. The heat exchange needs are processed, and desired positions formovable members electromagnets ECU lines ECU lines electromagnets electromagnet exterior surface 252 in the vicinity ofmovable members electromagnets movable member movable member heat exchange conduit 104. As illustrated inFIG. 8 ,movable member 238 may be in an extended position, whilemovable member 240 may be in a different extended position andmovable member 242 may be in a retracted position. - In some embodiments, two or more groups of
movable members ECU 250.FIG. 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of howECU 250 may control the position of eachmovable member group ECU lines FIG. 8 , the group ofmovable members 226 may be in an extended position, while the group ofmovable members 228 may be in a different extended position and the group ofmovable members 230 may be in a retracted position. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a portion ofheat exchange conduit 204 and three groups ofmovable members FIG. 8 shows three movable members within each group ofmovable members Heat exchange conduit 204 may extend in either direction to accommodate any desired number of groups of movable members and any desired number of movable members within each group of movable members. - The flow field for an embodiment that includes three groups of
movable members stationary members 254 may look similar to the flow fields described and diagrammed forFIGS. 2-5 . The flow field will vary based on the position or orientation of each member or group of members. Referring toFIG. 8 , a group ofstationary members 254 typically cause eddies to form before and after individual stationary members within the group ofstationary members 254. A group of extendedmovable members movable members 228 andstationary members 254 may be less turbulent than the flow field betweenmovable members 226 andstationary members 254 becausemovable members 226 may be extended further into the flow field. A group of retractedmovable members 230 may allow a generally laminar flow field to form nearmovable members 230, and turbulence typically increases nearstationary members 254. In other words, the flow field may become less turbulent as the fluid flows from left to right throughheat exchange conduit 204. - In the embodiments of
FIGS. 1-8 ,second fluid 107 may flow freely past one or more exterior surfaces ofheat exchanger 101. However, other embodiments may include provisions for channelingsecond fluid 107 directly to and aroundheat exchange conduit 104. The provisions may provide for more continuous and consistent heat transfer. -
FIG. 9 is a schematic cut away diagram of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit.FIG. 10 is a schematic end view of a preferred embodiment of a heat exchanger including a casing conduit. Referring toFIGS. 9 and 10 , an encasedheat exchanger 100 may include casinginlet conduit 114 that carriessecond fluid 107 tocasing conduit 102 throughcasing conduit inlet 116. Generally,second fluid 107 flows throughcasing conduit interior 103. Casing conduit interior 103 may be defined or bounded by casing conduitinner surface 115. After passing throughcasing conduit 102,second fluid 107 may leavecasing conduit 102 and entercasing outlet conduit 120 throughcasing conduit outlet 118. The flow path offirst fluid 105 may be similar to the previously mentioned embodiments. - Generally,
heat exchange conduit 104 resides withincasing conduit interior 103.Conduits first fluid 105 does not leak into casing conduit interior 103 andsecond fluid 107 does not leak into heat exchange conduit interior 111. - Other embodiments of encased
heat exchanger 100 may include provisions for altering the flow rate ofsecond fluid 107, and therefore, increasing or decreasing the heat transfer rate of encasedheat exchanger 100. These provisions may include a mechanism, such as a pump, for controlling the flow rate ofsecond fluid 107. The provisions may also include stationary members and movable members located on heat exchange conduitexterior surface 113, casing conduitinner surface 115, and casing conduitexterior surface 117. - Some embodiments may include provisions for recessing a movable member within a heat exchange conduit when the movable member may be in the retracted position. These provisions may allow for minimal interference of the movable member with the flow of fluid when the movable member is in the retracted position.
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FIG. 11 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including a retracted movable member within a recess or protrusion of a heat exchange conduit.FIG. 12 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including an extended movable member and a protrusion on a heat exchange conduit. Referring toFIGS. 11 and 12 ,heat exchange conduit 304 may include a heatexchange conduit protrusion 356 that bounds heatexchange conduit recess 357.Movable member 322 may reside entirely or partially within heatexchange conduit recess 357. Movable member securedend 323 may be connected to heat exchange conduit protrusioninner surface 359. - When
movable member 322 is in a retracted position,movable member 322 may reside entirely in heatexchange conduit recess 357. In a preferred embodiment,movable member side 361 lies flush with heat exchange conduitinner surface 309 whenmovable member 322 is in the retracted position. Whenmovable member 322 is in an extended position,movable member 322 may protrude into the flow path ofheat exchange conduit 304. - In the same manner as
movable member 122, the shape, size, and spacing ofmovable member 322 may vary in different embodiments. A notable difference betweenmovable member 122 andmovable member 322 may be the preferred shape. Preferably,movable member 322 may be wedge-shaped. However, in other embodiments,movable member 322 may be of any shape including a rectangular flat plate. - The shape, size, and spacing of heat
exchange conduit recess 357 may vary in different embodiments. The shape and size of heatexchange conduit recess 357 may be any shape and size that allows at least a portion ofmovable member 322 to lie within heatexchange conduit recess 357. Preferably, heatexchange conduit recess 357 may be larger than and shaped similarly tomovable member 322 and have only enough clearance to allowmovable member 322 to move from a retracted position to an extended position. The spacing of heatexchange conduit recess 357 from other portions ofheat exchange conduit 304 may be such that heatexchange conduit recess 357 aligns with the location and orientation ofmovable member 322. - The shape, size, and spacing of heat
exchange conduit protrusion 356 may vary in different embodiments. Heat exchange conduit protrusioninterior surface 359 bounds heatexchange conduit recess 357. Therefore, heat exchange conduit protrusioninterior surface 359 has the shape and size of heatexchange conduit recess 357. The shape of heat exchange conduit protrusionexterior surface 363 may be any shape. Preferably, the shape may be similar to the shape of heat exchange conduit protrusioninterior surface 359 and provide sufficient surface area for the heat exchange conduit's control system to communicate withmovable member magnet 326. However, the shape of heat exchange conduit protrusionexterior surface 363 need not be shaped similarly to heat exchange conduit protrusioninterior surface 359. Preferably, the size of heat exchange conduit protrusionexterior surface 363 may be any size that may be larger than the size of heatexchange conduit recess 357. The spacing of heatexchange conduit protrusion 356 from other portions ofheat exchange conduit 304 may be such that heatexchange conduit protrusion 356 aligns with the location ofmovable member 322. - In the same manner as previous embodiments, some embodiments may include more than one movable member. In these embodiments, each movable member preferably has its own heat exchange conduit protrusion and heat exchange conduit recess. However, in other embodiments, one or more movable members may reside in one heat exchange conduit protrusion and an associated heat exchange conduit recess. Similar to
movable members 137, the shape, size, orientation, and spacing of the group of movable members may vary. In addition, the spacing between individual members of a group of movable members may vary from one embodiment to another. Preferably, the distance between the individual members within a group of movable members may be approximately equal to the length of an individual movable member within the group of movable members. - Similar to previous embodiments,
heat exchange conduit 304 may includefirst fluid 305 flowing through the heat exchange conduit interior 311. In embodiments that may use amovable member 322 or more than one movable member, the flow field withinheat exchange conduit 304 may vary. Additionally, the flow field may vary based on the orientation or position ofmovable member 322 and other movable members. The flow field may resemble those previously described formovable members movable members 322, 333, and 337 may be recessed when in a retracted position, the flow may be more laminar than in previous embodiments where the movable members may not be recessed. - Embodiments including
movable member 322 may also include a control system comprising an electromagnet and other electrical components as described in previous embodiments. The electromagnet may be activated to attract or repel a movable member magnet depending on the heat transfer needed.Electromagnet 328 may be located near the heat exchange conduit protrusionexterior surface 363 and preferably in the vicinity ofmovable member 322 andmovable member magnet 326. - Some embodiments may include additional provisions to restrict the movement or range of motion of
movable member 322. These provisions assist in controlling the orientation ofmovable member 322 so that the flow rate and heat transfer rate can be more precisely controlled. For example, heatexchange conduit recess 357 may include a pivoting mechanism that allowsmovable member 322 to move from a retracted position, within heatexchange conduit recess 357, to an extended position, where movable memberfree end 321 moves to intoheat exchange conduit 304 to impede flow. The pivoting mechanism may be attached tomovable member 322 near movable member securedend 323 and to heat exchange conduit protrusioninterior surface 359. The pivoting mechanism may be similar to that discussed in previous embodiments and illustrated inFIG. 6 . This mechanism may include protrusions that extend towardmovable member 322 from heat exchange conduit protrusioninterior surface 359 and attach tomovable member 322 viashaft 336. - Some embodiments may also include provisions for restricting the range of motion of
movable member 322. Astop 338 may be used to preventmovable member 322 from moving beyond the distal position. Stop 338 may be an extension ofheat exchange conduit 304, and it may extend into heatexchange conduit recess 357. To contact stop 338 and preventmovable member 322 from moving beyond a distal position,movable member 322 may includemovable member extension 358. Whenmovable member 322 moves from a retracted position to the distal position, movablemember extension side 360 contacts stopside 362 and preventsmovable member 322 from moving beyond the distal position. - In different embodiments, the shape, length, and orientation of
stop 338 andmovable member extension 358 may vary based on the distal position ofmovable member 322. Stop 338 andmovable member extension 358 may be of any shape, length, or orientation. For example, stop 338 may protrude at an angle into heatexchange conduit recess 357, at an angle into heat exchange conduit interior 311, or at no angle and lie parallel to heatexchange conduit 304. Preferably, stop 338 andmovable member extension 358 do not contact each other unlessmovable member 322 shifts to a distal position. - Embodiments of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use, as illustrated in
FIG. 7 , may incorporate one or more movable members that may be recessed within a heat exchange conduit protrusion.Heat exchanger 101 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments. - Embodiments of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit, as illustrated in FIG. 8, may incorporate one or more movable members that may be recessed within heat exchange conduit protrusion. The heat exchanger of
FIG. 8 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments. - Embodiments of a heat exchanger with a casing conduit, as illustrated in
FIGS. 9-10 , may incorporate one or more movable members that may be recessed within a heat exchange conduit protrusion.Heat exchanger 100 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments. - Some embodiments may include provisions for translating or extending a movable member from a retracted position to an extended position. These provisions impede flow within a heat exchange conduit without the use of a pivoting mechanism.
-
FIG. 13 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including retracted movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.FIG. 14 is a schematic cross sectional view of a preferred embodiment including extended movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit. Referring toFIGS. 13 and 14 ,heat exchange conduit 404 may include a heatexchange conduit recess 457.Movable member 422 may reside entirely or partially within heatexchange conduit recess 357. Movable member securedend 423 may be connected tomovable body 464 atmovable body side 465. - When
movable member 422 andmovable body 464 may be in a retracted position,movable member 422 andmovable body 464 may reside entirely within heatexchange conduit recess 457. Movable memberfree end 421 may have an extreme end that defines a tip surface. In a preferred embodiment, the tip surface may lie flush with or in the same plane as heat exchange conduitinner surface 409. Whenmovable member 422 andmovable body 464 are in an extended position,movable member 422 may protrude into the flow path ofheat exchange conduit 404. - In the same manner as
movable member movable member 422 may vary in different embodiments. Similar tomovable member 322,movable member 422 may be of varying shapes. Preferably,movable member 422 may be wedge-shaped. However, in other embodiments,movable member 422 may be of any shape including a rectangular flat plate.FIG. 15 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including retracted movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.FIG. 16 is a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment including extended movable members within a recess of a heat exchange conduit.FIGS. 15 and 16 show amovable member 422 that has a rectangular flat plate shape. - In the same manner as heat
exchange conduit recess 357, the shape, size, and spacing of heatexchange conduit recess 457 may vary in different embodiments. The shape and size of heatexchange conduit recess 457 may be any shape and size that allows at least a portion ofmovable member 322 andmovable body 464 to lie within heatexchange conduit recess 457. Preferably, heatexchange conduit recess 457 may be larger thanmovable member 422 andmovable body 464 and shaped similarly tomovable body 464. Preferably, heatexchange conduit recess 457 may also have only enough clearance to allowmovable member 422 andmovable body 464 to move from a retracted position to an extended position. The spacing of heatexchange conduit recess 457 from other portions ofheat exchange conduit 404 should be such that heatexchange conduit recess 457 aligns with the location and orientation ofmovable member 422 andmovable body 464. - Some embodiments may include more than one movable member. In an exemplary embodiment shown in
FIGS. 13-16 ,heat exchange conduit 404 may include a group ofmovable members 437. In an embodiment, each movable member may be connected to one movable body and reside in one heat exchange conduit recess. Preferably, a group ofmovable members 437 may be connected to a singlemovable body 464 and reside in one heatexchange conduit recess 457. Similar tomovable member 422, the free ends of a group ofmovable members 437 may have extreme ends that defining a tip surface. In a preferred embodiment, the tip surfaces may lie flush with or in the same plane as heat exchange conduitinner surface 409. Similar tomovable members 137, the shape, size, orientation and spacing of the groupmovable members 437 may also vary. In addition, the spacing between individual members of the group ofmovable members 437 may vary from one embodiment to another. Preferably, the distance between the individual movable members within a group ofmovable members 437 may be approximately half the length of an individual movable member within the group ofmovable members 437. - Similar to previous embodiments,
heat exchange conduit 404 may includefirst fluid 405 flowing through heat exchange conduit interior 411. In embodiments that may use amovable member 422 or more than one movable member, the flow field withinheat exchange conduit 404 may vary. Additionally, the flow field may vary based on the orientation or position ofmovable member 422 and other movable members. The flow field may resemble those previously described formovable members movable members - Embodiments may also include a control system comprising an electromagnet and other electrical components as described in previous embodiments. The electromagnet may be activated to attract or repel a movable member magnet depending on the heat transfer needed.
Electromagnet 428 may be located near heat exchange conduitexterior surface 413 and preferably in the vicinity ofmovable member 422 andmovable member magnet 426. - Some embodiments may include additional provisions to restrict the movement or range of motion of
movable member 422. These provisions assist in controlling the position ofmovable member 422 so that the flow rate and heat transfer rate can be more precisely controlled. For example, heatexchange conduit recess 457 may include a sliding mechanism that allowsmovable member 422 andmovable body 464 to move from a retracted position, within heatexchange conduit recess 457, to an extended position, where movable memberfree end 421 moves intoheat exchange conduit 404 to impede flow. - The sliding mechanism may be attached to
movable body 464. Slidingelement 466 may be configured in one or more pieces that extend wholly or partially throughmovable body 464. Slidingelement 466 may also be slidably connected to heat exchangeconduit recess surface 459. However, slidingelement 466 may not continuously contact heat exchangeconduit recess surface 459. Slidingelement 466 may be designed to extend towards heat exchangeconduit recess surface 459 so thatmovable member 422 andmovable body 464 have little clearance to move laterally. Heatexchange conduit recess 457 may also be designed so that the portions that receive slidingelement 466 may be slots. - Some embodiments may also include provisions for restricting the range of motion of
movable member 422.Stops movable member 422 from moving beyond the distal position.Stops heat exchange conduit 404 that extend into heatexchange conduit recess 457. To contact stops 468 and 470 and preventmovable member 422 from moving beyond the distal position, slidingelement 466 may be utilized. Whenmovable member 422 moves from a retracted position to the distal position, the ends of slidingelement 466 may contactsides stops movable member 422 from moving beyond the distal position. - In different embodiments, the shape, length, and orientation of
stops element 466 may vary based on the distal position ofmovable member 422.Stops element 466 may be of any shape, length, or orientation. For example, stops 468 and 470 may protrude at an angle into heatexchange conduit recess 457, at an angle into heat exchange conduit interior 411, or at no angle and lie parallel to heatexchange conduit 404. Preferably, stops 468 and 470 and slidingelement 466 do not contact each other unlessmovable member 422 shifts to a distal position. - Embodiments of a heat exchange system including a heat exchanger and a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use, as illustrated in
FIG. 7 , may incorporate one or moremovable members Heat exchanger 101 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments. - Embodiments of a heat exchanger with variable heat transfer capabilities at different sections of the heat exchange conduit, as illustrated in
FIG. 8 , may incorporate one or moremovable members FIG. 8 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments. - Embodiments of a heat exchanger with a casing conduit, as illustrated in
FIGS. 9-10 , may incorporate one or movemovable members Heat exchanger 100 may otherwise function similarly to previously described embodiments. - While various embodiments of the invention have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.
Claims (22)
1. A heat exchanger comprising:
a conduit defining an interior surface and an exterior surface;
said interior surface configured to contain a first fluid;
said exterior surface adapted to be in contact with a second fluid;
a movable member attached to said interior surface of said conduit for acting on the first fluid; and
a control system operably coupled to said movable member and altering a heat transfer characteristic of said heat exchanger by moving said movable member.
2. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 , wherein said control system comprises:
an electronic control unit exterior to said conduit to determine a desired heat transfer rate and to move said movable member.
3. The heat exchanger according to claim 2 , wherein said control system further comprises:
an electromagnet exterior to said conduit and adjacent to said movable member;
said electronic control unit operably connected to said electromagnet; and
said electromagnet responding to the desired heat transfer rate and in magnetic communication with said movable member through said conduit to move said movable member.
4. The heat exchanger according to claim 3 , wherein said movable member comprises:
a permanent magnet moving in response to a magnetic field created by said electromagnet.
5. A heat exchanger comprising:
a conduit defining an interior surface and an exterior surface;
said interior surface configured to contain a first fluid;
said exterior surface adapted to be in contact with a second fluid;
multiple movable members attached to said interior surface of said conduit for acting on the first fluid; and
an electromagnetic control system operably coupled to said movable members and altering a desired heat transfer rate between said interior surface of said conduit and said exterior surface of said conduit by moving said multiple movable members.
6. The heat exchanger of claim 5 , comprising:
said multiple movable members organized into multiple units;
each of said multiple units comprised of at least one movable member.
7. The heat exchanger of claim 6 , wherein said electromagnetic control unit independently moves said each of said multiple units to achieve the desired heat transfer rate between said interior of said conduit and said exterior of said conduit.
8. A heat exchanger comprising:
a conduit defining an interior surface and an exterior surface;
said interior surface configured to contain a first fluid;
said exterior surface adapted to be in contact with a second fluid;
a stationary member connected to said interior surface of said conduit and angled in a downstream direction to impede flow of the first fluid through said conduit.
a movable member attached to said interior surface of said conduit for acting on the first fluid; and
an electromagnetic control system operably coupled to said movable member and controlling a flow characteristic of the first fluid.
9. The heat exchanger according to claim 8 , wherein said movable member is movable from a retracted position, in which said movable member is proximal to said interior surface of said conduit, to a distal position, in which a portion of said movable member is distal from said interior surface of said conduit.
10. The heat exchanger according to claim 9 , wherein said movable member is movable to a desired position between the retracted position and the distal position.
11. A heat exchange system comprising:
a heat exchanger;
a device that heats fluid as a byproduct of use;
a first conduit fluidly connecting an outlet of said device to an inlet of said heat exchanger;
a second conduit fluidly connecting an outlet of said heat exchanger to an inlet of said device; and
wherein said heat exchanger comprises:
a third conduit defining an interior surface and an exterior surface;
said interior surface configured to contain a first fluid;
said exterior surface adapted to be in contact with a second fluid;
a movable member attached to said interior surface of said third conduit for acting on the first fluid; and
a control system operably coupled to said movable member and altering a heat transfer characteristic of said heat exchanger by moving said movable member.
12. The heat exchange system according to claim 11 , wherein said control system comprises:
a sensor in communication with said device to detect a thermodynamic property of one of said first fluid or said device.
13. The heat exchange system according to claim 12 , wherein said control system further comprises:
an electronic control unit exterior to said conduit; and
said electronic control unit in communication with said sensor and responding to said thermodynamic property by determining a desired heat transfer rate.
14. The heat exchange system according to claim 13 , wherein said control system further comprises:
an electromagnet exterior to said conduit and adjacent to said movable member;
said electronic control unit operably connected to said electromagnet to move said movable member; and
said electromagnet responding to the desired heat transfer rate and in magnetic communication with said movable member through said conduit to move said movable member.
15. The heat exchange system according to claim 14 , wherein said movable member comprises:
a permanent magnet moving in response to a magnetic field created by said electromagnet.
16. The heat exchange system according to claim 15 , wherein said thermodynamic property is temperature.
17. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 , further comprising at least one stationary member connected to said interior surface of said conduit.
18. The heat exchanger according to claim 17 , wherein said at least one stationary member is angled in a downstream direction to impede flow of the first fluid through said conduit.
19. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 , wherein said movable member is attached to said interior surface of said conduit through a hinge.
20. The heat exchanger according to claim 1 , further comprising a stop to limit movement of said movable member.
21. The heat exchanger according to claim 9 , wherein said movable member is located within a recess within said conduit when said movable member is in the retracted position.
22. The heat exchanger according to claim 10 , wherein said movable member is connected to an interior surface of said recess and moves from the retracted position to a desired position.
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US12/043,997 US20090223648A1 (en) | 2008-03-07 | 2008-03-07 | Heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties |
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US12/043,997 US20090223648A1 (en) | 2008-03-07 | 2008-03-07 | Heat exchanger with variable heat transfer properties |
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US20170321972A1 (en) * | 2014-10-30 | 2017-11-09 | Snecma | Heat exchanger and turbine engine comprising such an exchanger |
US10183269B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2019-01-22 | Corning Incorporated | Continuous flow reactor with tunable heat transfer capability |
US10253785B2 (en) * | 2016-08-31 | 2019-04-09 | Unison Industries, Llc | Engine heat exchanger and method of forming |
US11248526B2 (en) * | 2016-09-08 | 2022-02-15 | Unison Industries, Llc | Fan casing assembly and method |
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US20130011244A1 (en) * | 2010-07-29 | 2013-01-10 | General Electric Company | Reconfigurable heat transfer system for gas turbine inlet |
US20130014514A1 (en) * | 2011-07-14 | 2013-01-17 | Bryan Wesley Romig | Systems and methods for bulk temperature variation reduction of a gas turbine through can-to-can fuel temperature modulation |
US20150027662A1 (en) * | 2011-08-16 | 2015-01-29 | Antonius Henricus Hubertus Schmitz | Climate system |
US10739086B2 (en) * | 2014-10-30 | 2020-08-11 | Safran Aircraft Engines | Heat exchanger and turbine engine comprising such an exchanger |
US20170321972A1 (en) * | 2014-10-30 | 2017-11-09 | Snecma | Heat exchanger and turbine engine comprising such an exchanger |
US20160131035A1 (en) * | 2014-11-07 | 2016-05-12 | General Electric Company | Variable geometry heat exchanger apparatus |
US9903274B2 (en) * | 2014-11-07 | 2018-02-27 | General Electric Company | Variable geometry heat exchanger apparatus |
US10183269B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2019-01-22 | Corning Incorporated | Continuous flow reactor with tunable heat transfer capability |
US9644907B1 (en) * | 2015-11-10 | 2017-05-09 | International Business Machines Corporation | Structurally dynamic heat sink |
US9625220B1 (en) * | 2015-11-10 | 2017-04-18 | International Business Machines Corporation | Structurally dynamic heat sink |
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US11009296B2 (en) | 2016-04-12 | 2021-05-18 | 6353908 Canada Inc. | Heat exchange conduit and heat exchanger |
US20190203734A1 (en) * | 2016-08-31 | 2019-07-04 | Unison Industries, Llc | Engine heat exchanger and method of forming |
US10253785B2 (en) * | 2016-08-31 | 2019-04-09 | Unison Industries, Llc | Engine heat exchanger and method of forming |
US10823201B2 (en) * | 2016-08-31 | 2020-11-03 | Unison Industries, Llc | Engine heat exchanger and method of forming |
US11248526B2 (en) * | 2016-09-08 | 2022-02-15 | Unison Industries, Llc | Fan casing assembly and method |
US11566855B2 (en) * | 2019-08-09 | 2023-01-31 | Mikutay Corporation | Tube and chamber heat exchange apparatus having a medium directing assembly with enhanced medium directing panels |
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Owner name: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD., JAPAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:MARTIN, JAMES SCOTT;REEL/FRAME:020671/0485 Effective date: 20080305 |
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