FR3117539A1 - AUTONOMOUS THERMAL POWER PLANT WITH ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION - Google Patents

Abstract

Thermal power plant system comprising a closed circuit, said closed circuit comprising a first reservoir (2) containing a fluid partly in liquid state (3) and partly in gaseous state (13), said first reservoir (2) being suitable for receiving thermal energy (1), means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy (4,5), a second reservoir (7) being intended to contain the fluid in the liquid state (3), an inlet duct for the fluid in the gaseous state (13) providing air communication between the first tank (2) and said means for converting thermal energy into electrical energy (4,5), a condensation duct, provided with a condenser (6), interposed between the means for converting thermal energy into electrical energy (4,5) and said second tank (7), and a return pipe providing communication between the second tank (7 ) and the first tank (2). Figure of the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

AUTONOMOUS THERMAL POWER PLANT WITH ELECTRICITY PRODUCTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an autonomous thermal power plant system with electricity production, in particular to domestic standards, for a domestic or industrial building.

PRIOR ART

When using the Electricité de France™ (EDF™) network, the consumer pays an energy supply subscription and is connected to the national network. A strong point of this use is that the electricity is available 24 hours a day and can supply all the installations and equipment of a house or a commercial or industrial building. However, a weak point is that the consumer has only a small margin of maneuver on his subscription in terms of power and schedules, and remains totally dependent on EDF price fluctuations, which are constantly rising. Indeed, an increase in the price of electricity of 5% per year, on average, is expected for the next 10 years.

The consumer can, alternatively, turn to self-consumption. According to EDF: “By self-consumption we mean the fact of consuming the energy that we have produced on site. The goal is to reduce their dependence on an electricity supplier and to produce enough to cover part of the energy needs necessary for the proper functioning of their home. »

The main self-consumption devices currently available are the photovoltaic device, the hydraulic device, the wind device and the biomass device.

The photovoltaic device

The consumer has a device such as solar panels installed on his roof or on the ground. Electrical energy is produced from solar radiation through photovoltaic solar panels or power plants.

For optimal production, the solar panels must be well oriented, ideally to the south, to make the most of solar radiation. Avoid places on which shadows will be cast (trees or neighboring buildings, etc.). And if possible, we adapt the inclination of the panels (between 30 and 40° approximately) in order to best capture the solar energy. If the slope or orientation of the roof is not optimal, it may be preferable to opt for a photovoltaic installation on the ground. The electricity produced by the solar panels is consumed by the house. If we produce more than we consume, the production is injected into the EDF network for free. Conversely, if we consume more than we produce, the EDF electricity network takes over.

Strong points :

- the sun is an inexhaustible source and it is a green energy;

- an installation has a lifespan of 20 to 30 years;

- performance is guaranteed for 25 years (EDF renewable energy – EDF ENR);

- rapid development of technology to increase the efficiency of solar panels and reduce their size;

- management monitoring of consumption by the user;

- if, a decade ago, there was a lot of talk about producing solar energy with the aim of reselling it, now it is self-consumption that interests individuals.

Weak points :

- photovoltaic production depends on sunshine. It is therefore very fluctuating due to three factors: day-night alternation, seasonality, cloudiness. As well as projected shadows (trees, neighboring buildings, etc.);

- all individual buildings do not offer the natural (or ideal) predispositions for a good performance of solar panels, which then offer little interest for the owner of the premises;

- the solar panels wear out and their productivity decreases over time;

- an installation is expensive (approximately 1,000 euros/m ² ) and is amortized over 9 to 20 years;

- an installation having to be placed on the roof, this can generate infiltration problems. At a minimum, this requires intervention on the existing built structure;

- a standard house offers on average 20 m² of roof surface to install a device (12 panels);

- the installation must be maintained and cleaned at least once a year;

- the energy produced can directly supply a maximum of 40% on average of the overall consumption of the house;

- the installation is subject to administrative formalities: planning permission (prior declaration of work at the town hall), request for connection to the public electricity distribution network from the Enedis manager, certificate of electrical conformity from the Consuel (National Committee for safety of electricity users).

The hydraulic device

Hydroelectricity refers to the energy provided by the movement of water in all its forms. These can be streams, waterfalls, sea currents, waves or tides. Mainly used on a large scale, hydropower represents the third source of electricity production in the world. Some countries like Norway or Iceland even get almost all their electricity from hydroelectric power stations.

In France, the production of electricity from renewable sources is largely dominated by hydraulics, since in 2016 it represented more than 70%.

Technically, hydroelectric power works on the same principle as wind power. The water takes a pipe, then its movement causes the rotation of a wheel or a turbine, which, combined with a generator, produces a direct current. An inverter then converts it into alternating current, which can be stored in batteries or returned to the grid. This mode of production is one of the most efficient. It is based on a powerful, virtually unlimited resource that does not need to be transformed: water passes through the plant and comes out intact.

Hydropower is not just the prerogative of large power plants. Indeed, we speak, at the level of individuals, of "pico power plants" for installations of less than 20 kW. Even if these remain uncommon because they are subject to multiple technical and administrative constraints, it is still possible to use hydroelectric energy at home. When the site allows it, a pico central can be enough to cover all the electricity needs of a home.

Strong points :

- inexhaustible resource and productive power.

Weak points :

- very few potential users, because a watercourse must be available in the field. This must have a flow rate strong enough to turn the turbine of the plant. And also benefit from a significant drop height, so as to be able to generate enough power;

- very high installation cost (2,000 euros to 10,000 euros/kW), installation not profitable at the domestic level.

The wind device

Wind energy consists of harnessing the kinetic energy of the wind. Wind turbines producing electricity can be installed on land or “offshore”.

The electrical or mechanical energy produced by a wind turbine depends on three parameters: the shape and length of the blades, the wind speed and the temperature which influences the density of the air.

A domestic wind turbine makes it possible to produce its own energy in an ecological way. Like the "big ones", it has a propeller supported by a nacelle equipped with a generator; the electricity is stored in the mast batteries. Its power varies from 100 W to 36 kW.

Like a photovoltaic installation, it can be connected to the EDF network for the resale of electricity, but it does not benefit from advantageous feed-in tariffs. This is why it is especially profitable with a view to self-consumption. Well established in Great Britain (15,500 units in 2009), small wind turbines have been progressing in France since 2010, where there were then 2,000.

Installation included, a domestic wind turbine can cost up to 40,000 euros before tax. The average price is 10,000 to 15,000 euros excluding tax.

It takes an average of 15 years to make a domestic wind turbine profitable.

The installation depends on the topography of the land, which must be spread out and exposed to sufficiently strong regular winds. Most wind turbines start with winds of 10 to 15 km/h. Regions such as Brittany or the Rhône Alpes region benefit as a whole from privileged exposure to the winds. In other regions, the North East of France for example, the opinion of a professional is essential.

Strong points :

- wind energy is a renewable energy that does not directly emit greenhouse gases during the operating phase;

- less common, the vertical wind turbine is a wheel rotating on its axis like a weather vane. Easily integrated into the frame, on a roof for example, and operating in low wind, it emits no noise.

Weak points :

- randomness, limited return;

- intrusion into natural landscapes often poorly accepted by local residents;

- high price ;

- common, the horizontal wind turbine is a propeller that turns against the wind. Its installation requires an open space. It can cause noise pollution due to the friction of the air on the blades.

The biomass device

This energy makes it possible to produce electricity thanks to the heat released by the combustion of plant or animal matter (wood, plants, agricultural waste, organic household waste) or biogas resulting from the fermentation of these materials, in biomass power plants. Domestic methanization is the possibility of recycling waste directly at home and producing energy with it.

A French inhabitant generates an average of 391 kg of waste per year. In the composition of the 391 kg of waste, there are 152 kg of organic matter (kitchen scraps, peelings, bread, etc.) and the rest of solid matter (plastic, scrap metal, etc.).

152 kg of organic matter give, once passed through the domestic biomass methanization unit, a potential of 700 m² of biogas or 200 m² of usable methane. 1 m² of methane can produce 6 kW of electrical energy, i.e. for one person 1,200 kW per year of electricity generated directly with this waste (Source: the French Environment and Energy Management Agency – ADEME) .

With a biogas plant it is possible to produce different forms of energy: electricity, heating of sanitary water, lighting or heating. When producing electricity with a biogas generator, the methane produced by the domestic methanisation unit is burned directly in a generator and therefore generates energy for the house, for the reduction of the electricity bill. electricity. For the production of domestic water heating, the methane produced by the unit is used directly in a boiler for heating the domestic water. Methane is also used for lighting thanks to Biogas bulbs. For heating, the methane is burned in a forced air heater.

Strong points :

- individual recycling of organic materials;

- direct and significant limitation of transport costs for waste collection (garbage collectors);

- limitation of methane released directly into our atmosphere;

- production of electrical energy, heat, lighting, cooking with the gas produced;

- the domestic methanation plant therefore becomes an individual source of energy and at the same time has a significant impact on the recycling of organic waste.

Weak points :

- it is very complicated to plan the production of a domestic methanization system. The factors of ambient heat, composition and quality of the waste used as well as the frequency of feeding the biogas unit influence the production of methane produced;

- it is essential to have at least 5 m² of garden in order to be able to install the domestic methanisation unit;

- the price of a biogas plant is completely random because there are many options (shelter or without shelter, heating or not of the tanks, choice of the use of methane gas in electricity, heating, lighting, etc.). An installation of a hybrid biogas/solar system with a domestic biogas system and a 3 kW solar system costs an average of 20,000 euros to 24,000 euros.

The present invention improves the situation in terms of electricity self-consumption devices. In particular, the present invention overcomes constraints related to the presence of water in self-consumption electricity devices.

In general, the invention proposes a thermal power station system which comprises a closed circuit, said closed circuit comprising a first reservoir and/or an evaporator containing a fluid partly in the liquid state and partly in the gaseous state, said first reservoir and/or said evaporator being capable of receiving thermal energy, means for converting thermal energy into electrical energy, a second reservoir being intended to contain the fluid in the liquid state, an inlet duct of the fluid in the gaseous state providing air communication between, on the one hand, the first tank and/or the evaporator and, on the other hand, said means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy, and a condensation, equipped with a condenser, interposed between the means for converting thermal energy into electrical energy and said second reservoir. In this thermal power plant system, the thermal energy ensures a change of state of the fluid from the liquid state to the gaseous state, the fluid in the gaseous state ensures the implementation of the energy transformation means heat into electrical energy, and said condenser ensures the condensation of the fluid from the gaseous state to the liquid state.

The thermal power plant system of the invention advantageously comprises any one of the following characteristics taken alone or in combination:

- thermal energy is provided by the sun, a gas burner, the combustion of waste such as green waste, geothermal energy, heat recovery on a conduit such as a chimney flue or a flue gas or a hot water vapor duct, or any other heat source,

- the means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy comprise means for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy and means for transforming said mechanical energy into electrical energy, the means for transforming thermal energy into energy mechanisms are advantageously a piston cylinder or an aeraulic turbine, and the means for transforming mechanical energy into electrical energy are advantageously an electric generator.

- the fluid is a hydrocarbon, a hydrofluorocarbon, CO ₂ , NH ₃ , N ₂ , O ₂ , a mixture of these, or any other fluid, or mixture of fluids, whose vaporization temperature is lower at 100°C, advantageously less than or equal to 80°C.

- the inlet duct comprises a bulb, a regulator and/or an opening valve, said opening valve being advantageously under mechanical or electrical pressure.

- the bulb comprises a temperature and/or pressure sensor.

- The first reservoir is placed in an advantageously glazed enclosure.

- the bulb is positioned in the enclosure, and in contact with the first tank or the evaporator, or in the first tank or in the evaporator, or outside the first tank or the evaporator.

- the first tank is a high pressure tank and the second tank is a low pressure tank.

- the piston cylinder comprises a first distribution rod, a piston provided with a connecting rod and a crankshaft, and a second distribution rod, said first distribution rod making it possible to actuate a first valve and said second distribution rod to actuate a second valve.

- the thermal power plant system further comprises a return duct providing communication between the second tank and the first tank, said return duct being provided with a non-return valve.

- the thermal power station system further comprises an input switch placed upstream of the second tank and an output switch placed downstream of the second tank, the second tank being divided into two independent tanks, said input switch ensuring the closing of the closed circuit between the condensation duct and one of the tanks when the output switch ensures the closing of the closed circuit between the other tank and the first tank or the evaporator.

- the first tank and the second tank are independent of each other; an intake switch is interposed between, on the one hand, the first tank and the second tank and, on the other hand, the intake circuit; and a return switch is interposed between, on the one hand, the condenser, and, on the other hand, the first tank and the second tank; said intake switch providing air communication between the first reservoir and the intake circuit, simultaneously obstructing communication between the second reservoir and the intake circuit, when the return switch provides communication between the condensation circuit and the second tank by simultaneously obstructing communication with the first tank, and vice versa.

The invention will be better understood on reading the non-limiting description which follows, written with regard to the appended drawings, in which:

- there is a schematic representation of a thermal power plant system according to the invention;

– Figures 2A, 2B and 2C are schematic representations of a piston cylinder as an example of a means of transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy according to the invention: the illustrates the entry of the fluid in gaseous state into the piston cylinder, the illustrates the compression of the fluid in the gaseous state and the illustrates the exit of the fluid in the gaseous state towards the condensation circuit;

- there is a schematic representation of the operation of a dispensing rod present in a piston cylinder according to the invention;

- there is a photograph of a prototype thermal power plant system according to the invention;

- there is a schematic representation of an alternative thermal power plant system according to the invention;

- there is a schematic representation of another variant of a thermal power station system according to the invention;

- there is a schematic representation of another variant of a thermal power station system according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to Figures 1 to 7, the thermal power plant system according to the invention comprises a closed circuit. This closed circuit, schematized for example on the , comprises an evaporator 15 containing a fluid partly in the liquid state 3 and partly in the gaseous state 13. This evaporator 15 is capable of receiving thermal energy 1. Advantageously, the thermal energy 1 is provided by the sun , a gas burner, the combustion of waste such as green waste, geothermal energy or heat recovery on a conduit such as a chimney flue or a burnt gas evacuation conduit or a water vapor conduit heat, or any other heat source that can be recovered by adapting the device to it. Preferably, the thermal energy 1 is solar energy.

In an alternative, the evaporator 15 is replaced by a first reservoir 2. According to one embodiment of this alternative, schematized for example on the , the first reservoir 2 is placed in an enclosure 11. Advantageously, this enclosure 11 is insulated and glazed and is preferably made of tempered glass, such as, for example, tempered glass of the Securit™ type marketed by the company Saint- Gobain™. Such a glazed enclosure makes it possible to contain the heat as well as possible. In other words, such a glazed enclosure is intended to conserve heat.

According to a particular embodiment of this alternative, the thermal energy 1 is solar energy. According to this embodiment, the first reservoir 2 is black in color in order to better capture solar heat. The first tank 2 is advantageously placed in an enclosure 11 as described above. Provision may also be made, around the first tank 2, for converging mirrors to maximize radiation and optimize heat production.

According to another alternative, the evaporator 15 is in communication with a first tank 2. The evaporator 15 is then interposed between the first tank 2 and an admission circuit ( vacuum below ).

In its generality, the evaporator 15, also called exchanger, ensures the heat exchange within the fluid, between the fluid in the liquid state 3 and the fluid in the gaseous state 13. It thus makes it possible to optimize the yield of the thermal power plant system by increasing the heat exchange surface.

The thermal energy 1 ensures a change of state of the fluid from the liquid state to the gaseous state. The fluid present in the thermal power station system of the invention is contained in the evaporator 15, and/or in the first tank 2, partly in the liquid state 3. This fluid has a difference in volume between its liquid form and its gaseous form. In the thermal power station system of the invention, the fluid in the liquid state 3 contained in the evaporator 15, and/or in the first reservoir 2, absorbs the thermal energy 1 and vaporizes. Thus, under the action of the thermal energy 1, the fluid in the liquid state 3 changes to the gaseous state 13. In other words, the fluid contained in the evaporator 15, and/or in the first reservoir 2, is entirely liquid before being subjected to thermal energy 1. The fluid only becomes gaseous under the effect of heat, by evaporating. According to one embodiment of the invention, the fluid is a hydrocarbon, a hydrofluorocarbon, CO ₂ , NH ₃ , N ₂ , O ₂ , a mixture of these, or any other fluid, or mixture of fluids, the vaporization temperature of which is less than 100°C, advantageously less than or equal to 80°C. In particular, the hydrocarbon is, for example, butane also called R600, propane, or acetylene. An example of a hydrofluorocarbon is 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane, also named R134a. According to a particular embodiment, the fluid is butane, propane, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane or NH ₃ . Preferably, the fluid is propane. It should be noted that the fluid used directly impacts the final price of the thermal power station system of the invention, the price differences between the fluids being significant. Under the effect of the heat, the fluid in the liquid state 3 heats up rapidly and evaporates, causing, for example, the pressure inside the first tank 2 to increase. The fluid of the invention having a temperature vaporization less than 100 ° C, the thermal energy 1 absorbed by the fluid to implement the device of the invention is less than the thermal energy 1 to be absorbed by water, for example. This reduction in the thermal energy 1 necessary for the operation of the installation represents an advantage in particular when the thermal power plant system of the invention uses the sun as thermal energy 1.

The closed circuit also comprises an inlet duct for the fluid in the gaseous state 13 providing airflow communication between, on the one hand, the evaporator 15, and/or the first tank 2, and, on the other hand, means of transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5. Of course, the transformed energy is the thermal energy received by the evaporator 15, and/or by the first reservoir 2, then communicated to the fluid for its vaporization with increase in volume in the evaporator 15, and/or in the first tank 2, and consequently an increase in pressure in the closed circuit. It is this increase in volume with increase in pressure which actuates the aforementioned energy transformation means with a view to producing electrical energy. Advantageously, the inlet duct comprises a bulb 10, an expansion valve 9 and an opening valve 8. The opening valve 8 can be mechanical pressure or electrical pressure. Preferably, the opening valve 8 is an electric pressure opening valve, also denoted below VOPE, as shown schematically in the . Alternatively, when the opening valve 8 is a mechanical pressure opening valve, the closed circuit further comprises a depressurization circuit 14, as shown schematically in the , which provides air communication between the intake circuit, upstream of the expansion valve 9, the opening valve 8 and the condensation circuit, and allows the operation of the opening valve 8 at mechanical pressure. Depending on the pressure difference in the circuit, the valve opens and closes mechanically, without an electrical source. The opening valve 8 controls the opening between, on the one hand, the evaporator 15 and/or the first tank 2 and, on the other hand, a second tank 7. The opening valve 8 opens when there is a sufficient pressure difference between the evaporator 15 and the second reservoir 7 or, alternatively, between the two reservoirs. For example, the opening valve 8 opens when the pressure difference between the two reservoirs is greater than 4 bars. According to this example, if the pressure between the two reservoirs is less than 4 bars, the opening valve 8 remains closed. Thus, the opening valve 8 can remain closed and only open when there is a need for electricity. For example, in the context of domestic use of the thermal power plant system of the invention, the opening valve 8 can open when the user puts a kitchen oven into operation. The regulator 9 makes it possible to control the flow rate of fluid in the gaseous state 13, to maintain a constant flow rate and a pressure difference within the closed circuit, in particular between the first tank 2 and the second tank 7. During operation of the central system of the invention, the opening valve 8 opens and evacuates the excess fluid in the gaseous state 13 injected into the circuit, passing through the regulator 9. Thus, the pressure drops and one obtains an acceleration of the fluid in the gaseous state 13 at the level of the discharge of the expander 9. The bulb 10 is advantageously positioned in the enclosure 11. It is placed in contact with the evaporator 15, or alternatively with the first tank 2, or in the evaporator 15, or alternatively in the first tank 2, or outside the evaporator 15, or alternatively the first tank 2 as shown in the . The bulb 10 includes a temperature and/or pressure sensor. The bulb 10 makes it possible to compensate for the opening of the orifice of the regulator 9 in order to always have the same operating regime, that is to say the same flow rate of fluid in the gaseous state 13. In other words, the bulb 10 actuates the regulator 9 to regulate the pressure.

The fluid in the gaseous state 13 ensures the implementation of the means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5. These means are more precisely means for transforming the thermal energy, accumulated in the form of pneumatic energy in the fluid in the gaseous state, into electrical energy. These means 4.5 are placed downstream of the intake circuit. The means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5 advantageously comprise means for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy 4 and means for transforming mechanical energy into electrical energy 5, the mechanical energy being contained in the form of pneumatic energy in the pressurized gas. The means for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy 4 are advantageously a piston cylinder or an aeraulic turbine. The invention is nevertheless not limited to these two examples of means for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy 4, and other means can be implemented.

According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the means 4 for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy are a piston cylinder, the operation of which is detailed in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 3. This piston cylinder comprises a first distribution rod 42a, a piston 41 fitted with a connecting rod 44 and a crankshaft 43, and a second distribution rod 42b. In this piston cylinder, the first distribution rod 42a makes it possible to actuate a first valve 421 while the second distribution rod 42b makes it possible to actuate a second valve 422. The piston 41 descends and rises under the effect of the inertia. The fluid in the gaseous state 13 is treated by the piston cylinder, the operation of which can be detailed in three main phases. During phase 1 illustrated on the , the valve 421 opens, letting in the fluid in the gaseous state 13 coming from the first reservoir 2. The valve 422 is then closed and the piston descends. In the second phase detailed on the , before the piston 41 reaches the end of its stroke, at the bottom, the valve 421 closes thanks to the distribution rod 42a on which the crankshaft 43 no longer exerts pressure. The fluid in the gaseous state 13 thus trapped in the cylinder chamber pushes the piston 41 downwards, which causes the rotation of the crankshaft 43. During the third phase, with the inertia of the crankshaft 43, the piston 41 continues its course, the crankshaft 43 then exerting pressure on the second distribution rod 42b. This then actuates the opening of the valve 422, allowing the fluid in the gaseous state 13 to continue its course towards the second tank 7. Thus, in this example of means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5 , the inlets and outlets of the fluid in the gaseous state 13 in the piston cylinder are managed by a system of distribution rods 42a, 42b. The diagram of the is an example of the operation of the dispensing rods 42a, 42b. On the position denoted 1, the valve 422 remains closed. On the position denoted 2, the valve 422 opens and lets the fluid in the gaseous state 13 pass. This movement is made possible by the rotation of the crankshaft 43 which compresses the distribution rod 42b. This compression of the dispensing rod 42b causes a movement of the associated valve 422. The presence of a piston cylinder as means for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy 4 allows lower energy consumption compared to an aeraulic turbine, for example.

The means for transforming mechanical energy into electrical energy 5 are advantageously an electric generator such as an alternator.

The electric generator is a system for obtaining electricity using another form of source energy. The electric generator used in the thermal power plant of the invention is a hydraulic or aeraulic, advantageously aeraulic, generator. According to the particular embodiment of the invention described above, the crankshaft 43 of the piston cylinder is coupled to an electric generator, so that the rotation of the crankshaft 43 powers the electric generator, thus enabling it to produce electricity. .

The fluid in the gaseous state 13, once out of the means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5, passes through a condensation conduit to be cooled. The condensation circuit is provided with a condenser 6, advantageously a horizontal condenser. This condensation duct is interposed between the means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5 and the second tank 7. The condenser 6 ensures the condensation of the fluid from the gaseous state 13 to the liquid state 3. The second reservoir 7 is intended to receive and contain the fluid in the liquid state 3. The condensation circuit thus allows the condensation of the fluid in the gaseous state 13 into fluid in the liquid state 3. The fluid in the liquid 3 is then stored in the second tank 7.

According to one embodiment, the power plant system of the invention can operate continuously, without having to interrupt the operation of the thermal power plant to pass the fluid in the liquid state 3 from the second tank 7 to the evaporator 15 and / or, alternatively, to the first tank 2. According to this embodiment, an example of which is shown schematically in Figures 6 and 7, the second tank 7 is divided into two independent tanks 7-1, 7-2. In other words, the tanks 7-1 and 7-2 do not communicate with each other. The closed circuit then further comprises an input switch 16 placed upstream of the second tank 7 and an output switch 17 placed downstream of the second tank 7. The input switch 16 provides selective communication from the condensation conduit to the either of the vats 7-1 or 7-2. Simultaneously, the output switch 17 provides selective communication from one or the other of the tanks 7-1 or 7-2, to the evaporator 15, and/or the first tank 2. Thus, according to the diagrammatic example on the , when the input switch 16 closes the closed circuit between the condensation conduit and the tank 7-2, then the output switch 17 closes the closed circuit between the tank 7-1 and the evaporator 15. According to this configuration, the closed circuit is supplied with fluid via the contents of the tank 7-2 while the tank 7-1 receives and stores the fluid in the liquid state 3, at the end of the cycle. When tank 7-2 is empty, input 16 and output 17 switches switch. The input switch 16 then ensures the closure of the closed circuit between the condensation conduit and the tank 7-1, while the output switch 17 ensures the closure of the closed circuit between the tank 7-2 and the evaporator 15. This configuration allows a supply of fluid to the closed circuit by the contents of the tank 7-1, while at the end of the cycle, the fluid in the liquid state 3 is stored in the tank 7-2.

Alternatively, the central system of the invention does not operate continuously. The closed circuit then further comprises a return conduit providing communication between the second reservoir 7 and the first reservoir 2, as shown diagrammatically, for example, in FIGS. 1 and 5. According to this embodiment of the invention, the return conduit is provided with a non-return valve 12 and ensures the transfer of the fluid in the liquid state 3 from the second reservoir 7 to the first reservoir 2. In order to transfer the fluid in the liquid state 3 from the second reservoir 7 to the first tank 2, it is then necessary to interrupt the operation of the thermal power station. An exemplary embodiment of a central system according to this embodiment of the invention is shown in the .

Alternatively again, the central system of the invention operates continuously and comprises a first tank 2, a second tank 7 and a system of switches. The first reservoir 2 is independent of the second reservoir 7, that is to say there is no communication between the two reservoirs. In other words, at the end of the cycle, the fluid in the liquid state 3 does not circulate from the second reservoir 7 to the first reservoir 2 in order to supply the closed circuit. The system of switches ensures, on the one hand, a selective opening of one of the tanks towards the intake duct, by obstructing the passage between the other tank and the intake duct and, on the other hand, a selective opening of the condensation duct towards the tank whose passage to the inlet duct is obstructed, while obstructing the communication of the condensation duct to the other tank. Thus, at the end of the cycle, the fluid in the liquid state 3 is received and stored by the reservoir which does not supply the closed circuit with fluid. Advantageously, the switch system comprises an intake switch interposed between, on the one hand, the reservoirs and, on the other hand, the intake circuit, and a return switch interposed between, on the one hand, the condenser 6 and, on the other hand, the two tanks. For example, the intake switch provides air communication between the first tank 2 and the intake circuit, simultaneously obstructing communication between the second tank 7 and the intake circuit. The return switch then provides communication between the condensation conduit and the second reservoir 7, while obstructing the passage between the condensation conduit and the first reservoir 2. When the first reservoir 2 no longer comprises fluid in the liquid state 3, the switch system switches. Thus, after switching, the second reservoir 7 supplies the closed circuit with fluid, while the first reservoir 2 receives the fluid in the liquid state and stores it, at the end of the cycle. Preferably, according to this embodiment, the second reservoir 7 is also able to receive the thermal energy 1, in order to be able to supply the closed circuit with fluid in the gaseous state 13, when the admission switch ensures the aeraulic communication between the second tank 7 and the intake circuit.

The thermal power plant system of the invention is autonomous.

The thermal power plant system of the invention works thanks to the evaporation of the fluid, caused by the heat.

The thermal power plant system of the invention operates on the principle of communicating vessels, in a closed circuit. Advantageously, when the thermal power plant system of the invention comprises two reservoirs, the first reservoir 2 is a high pressure reservoir and the second reservoir 7 is a low pressure reservoir.

The thermal power plant system of the invention uses the flows generated by the evaporation of the fluid contained in the first reservoir 2 to activate, for example, a piston connected to a generator, which converts the initial flow of fluid to the gaseous state. 13 in direct electricity.

The thermal power plant system of the invention as described above allows the production of electricity with a peak power of between 10 kW and 5000 kW, advantageously between 30 kW and 1000 kW, preferably between 50 kW and 100 kW. The peak power designates the maximum power that the device can deliver to the electrical network.

Ultimately, thanks to the thermal power plant system of the invention, anyone, individual or professional, in an urban, industrial or rural environment, can produce electricity in a completely autonomous manner at high current to supply energy to one or more electrical appliances. , a detached house, or even a professional or industrial building, freeing itself from many current constraints related to the supply of electrical energy (contractual or financial), whether conventional (EDF network) or alternative (photovoltaic, wind , hydroelectric, etc…), at attractive costs.

Moreover, the thermal power plant system of the invention is autonomous, produces no emissions of any kind and does not require any power supply other than thermal energy such as, for example, solar energy, a gas under the first tank, heat recovery on a flue or exhaust pipe for burnt gas or hot water vapour, or any other heat source that can be recovered by adapting the device thereto. The positive impact on the environment is therefore strong, the device being totally non-polluting.

The thermal power plant system of the invention is also devoid of complex or sufficiently sophisticated electronic parts to generate probable breakdowns, and thus require a sharp technical follow-up or a regular replacement of expensive master parts. This system is therefore simple in design and use, relying entirely on a purely mechanical and chemical sequence internally. It thus guarantees real durability.

EXAMPLES

Example 1

An example of a thermal power station system according to the invention is schematized on the . In this example, the heat energy is the sun. When stopped, the first tank 2 contains a fluid in the liquid state 3. The thermal power plant system starts operating when the sun heats the first tank 2. The heating of the first tank 2 causes the evaporation of the fluid and , thus, the gas 13 flows through the inlet duct. When the pressure is sufficient, the opening valve 8 with electric pressure opens. The fluid in the gaseous state 13 then circulates through the means of transformation of thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5. The means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5 comprise, on the one hand, means for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy 4 and, on the other hand, means for transforming energy mechanical into electrical energy 5. In this example, the means for transforming electrical energy into mechanical energy are a piston cylinder whose operation is detailed in FIGS. 2A, 2B and 2C. The valve 421 is open and allows the fluid in the gaseous state 13 to enter the piston cylinder 4. The valve 422 being closed, the arrival of the fluid in the gaseous state 13 in the cylinder causes the piston 41 to descend which actuates the rotation of the crankshaft 43, via the connecting rod 44. When the piston 41 reaches the end of its stroke, at the bottom, the valve 421 closes thanks to the distribution rod 42a on which the crankshaft 43 no longer exerts pressure. The fluid in the gaseous state 13 thus trapped in the cylinder chamber pushes the piston 41 downwards, which causes the rotation of the crankshaft 43. During the third phase, illustrated in the , with the inertia of the crankshaft 43, the piston 41 continues its stroke, the crankshaft 43 then exerting pressure on the second distribution rod 42b. This then actuates the opening of the valve 422, allowing the fluid in the gaseous state 13 to continue its course towards the conduit of condensation. In the condensation conduit, the fluid in the gaseous state 13 passes through an air condenser 6 which ensures the condensation of the fluid from the gaseous state 13 to the liquid state 3. The fluid in the liquid state 3 is then stored in the second tank 7. When the first tank 2 is empty, the thermal power plant is put out of service. The fluid in the liquid state 3 then passes through the return pipe provided with the non-return valve 12, to be transferred from the second tank 7 to the first tank 2. A new operating cycle of the thermal power plant can then begin.

In this system, it is the rotation of the crankshaft that powers the electric generator, making it possible to supply the electrical network to which the thermal power plant is connected, with electricity.

Example 2

A second example of construction and operation of the thermal power plant of the invention is schematized on the . This thermal power plant operates in a manner similar to that of Example 1, but continuously. In this example, the first tank 2 is replaced by an evaporator 15. The second tank 7 is divided into two independent tanks 7-1 and 7-2. The opening and closing of the closed circuit at the level of these two tanks is controlled by a system of switches. On the diagram of the , the outlet switch 17 closes the outlet of the tank 7-1, leaving the outlet of the tank 7-2 open. The fluid in the liquid state 3 contained in the tank 7-2 therefore circulates through the closed circuit, is heated by solar radiation at the level of the evaporator 15 and evaporates to form the fluid in the gaseous state 13 This fluid in the gaseous state 13 circulates through the admission circuit, the means for converting thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5 and condenses into fluid in the liquid state 3 in the condensation duct. Thus, after condensation, the fluid in the liquid state 3 is received and stored in the tank 7-1, the inlet switch 16 obstructing the inlet of the tank 7-2. When tank 7-2 no longer contains fluid, the position of switches 16 and 17 is reversed. It is then the tank 7-1 which supplies the closed circuit with fluid in the liquid state 3, and the tank 7-2 receives the fluid in the liquid state 3 at the end of the cycle.

In this example, the part of the circuit comprising the tanks 7-1 and 7-2, the output switch 17, and the evaporator 15, is insulated to contain the heat as much as possible and avoid any loss of energy.

As in example 1, it is the rotation of the crankshaft included in the means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy 4.5, which supplies the electric generator, making it possible to supply the electrical network to which the thermal power plant is connected , in electricity

Example 3

A third example of a thermal power station according to the invention is described below. This thermal power station operates in a manner similar to that of example 1, but continuously, thanks to a system of switches. In this example, there is no communication between the first tank 2 and the second tank 7. The system of switches comprises an admission switch interposed between, on the one hand, the tanks and, on the other hand, the intake circuit, and a return switch interposed between, on the one hand, the condenser 6 and, on the other hand, the two tanks. The intake switch closes off the closed circuit between the second tank 7 and the intake circuit, thus ensuring air communication between the first tank 2 and the intake circuit. The first reservoir 2 is heated, the fluid in the gaseous state 13 evaporates and creates an overpressure in the first reservoir 2. The fluid in the gaseous state 13 borrows the inlet duct, passes through the regulator 9, by the VOPE 8 (electric pressure opening valve) then by the piston cylinder 4, allowing the generator 5 to be triggered. The gaseous fluid 13 then enters the condenser 6 where it liquefies. The fluid in the liquid state 3 continues in the condensation conduit and passes through the open return switch to the second tank 7. When the second tank 7 is full, or respectively, when the first tank 2 is empty, the position of the inlet and return switches swaps. This permutation allows, on the one hand, the entry of the fluid in the liquid state 3 into the first tank 2 (which is then empty) and, on the other hand, the opening of the second tank 7 which can supply the circuit closed while the first tank 2 stores the fluid in liquid form 3.

Claims (11)

A thermal power plant system comprising a closed circuit, said closed circuit comprising:
a first reservoir (2) and/or an evaporator (15) containing a fluid partly in liquid state (3) and partly in gaseous state (13), said first reservoir (2) and/or evaporator ( 15) being able to receive thermal energy (1),
means for converting thermal energy into electrical energy (4.5),
a second tank (7) being intended to contain the fluid in the liquid state (3),
an inlet duct for the fluid in the gaseous state (13) providing air communication between, on the one hand, the first reservoir (2) and/or the evaporator (15) and, on the other hand, said means converting thermal energy into electrical energy (4.5), and
a condensation duct, provided with a condenser (6), interposed between the means for converting thermal energy into electrical energy (4,5) and said second tank (7),
in which the thermal energy (1) ensures a change of state of the fluid from the liquid state (3) to the gaseous state (13), the fluid in the gaseous state (13) ensures the implementation of the means for transforming thermal energy into electrical energy (4,5), and said condenser (6) ensures the condensation of the fluid from the gaseous state (13) to the liquid state (3). Thermal power plant system according to the preceding claim, in which the thermal energy (1) is provided by the sun, a gas burner, the combustion of waste such as green waste, geothermal energy, heat recovery on a pipe such a chimney flue or a burnt gas evacuation flue or a hot water vapor flue, or any other heat source. A thermal power plant system according to any preceding claim, wherein the thermal energy to electrical energy converting means (4,5) comprises thermal energy to mechanical energy converting means (4) and means for transforming said mechanical energy into electrical energy (5), the means for transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy (4) are advantageously a piston cylinder or an aeraulic turbine, and the means for transforming mechanical energy in electrical energy (5) are advantageously an electrical generator. A thermal power plant system according to any preceding claim, wherein the fluid is a hydrocarbon, hydrofluorocarbon, CO ₂ , NH ₃ , N ₂ , O ₂ , a mixture thereof, or any other fluid, or mixture of fluids, whose vaporization temperature is less than 100°C, advantageously less than or equal to 80°C. A thermal power station system according to any preceding claim, wherein the inlet duct comprises a bulb (10), an expansion valve (9) and/or an opening valve (8), said opening valve ( 8) advantageously being under mechanical or electrical pressure. A thermal power plant system according to claim 5, wherein the bulb (10) comprises a temperature and/or pressure sensor. A thermal power plant system according to any preceding claim, wherein the first tank (2) is a high pressure tank and the second tank (7) is a low pressure tank. Thermal power station system according to any one of claims 3 to 7, in which the piston cylinder comprises a first distributor rod (42a), a piston (41) provided with a connecting rod (44) and a crankshaft ( 43), and a second dispensing rod (42b), said first dispensing rod (42a) making it possible to actuate a first valve (421) and said second dispensing rod (42b) making it possible to actuate a second valve (422) . Power plant system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a return pipe providing communication between the second tank (7) and the first tank (2), said return pipe being provided with a non-return valve (12). A plant system according to any of claims 1 to 8, further comprising an input switch (16) placed upstream of the second tank (7) and an output switch (17) placed downstream of the second tank (7 ), the second tank (7) being divided into two independent tanks (7-1, 7-2), said input switch (16) ensuring the closure of the closed circuit between the condensation conduit and one of the tanks (7-1,7-2) when the output switch (17) closes the closed circuit between the other tank (7-1,7-2) and the first tank (2) or the evaporator ( 15). A plant system according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein
the first reservoir (2) and the second reservoir (7) are independent of each other;
an intake switch is interposed between, on the one hand, the first tank (2) and the second tank (7) and, on the other hand, the intake circuit; And
a return switch is interposed between, on the one hand, the condenser (6), and, on the other hand, the first tank (2) and the second tank (7);
said intake switch providing air communication between the first tank (2) and the intake circuit, while simultaneously obstructing communication between the second tank (7) and the intake circuit, when the return switch provides communication between the condensation circuit and the second tank (7) while simultaneously obstructing communication with the first tank (2), and vice versa.