JP2014510251A - Structural elements, related structures, and methods for temporarily storing and deferring use of thermal energy - Google Patents

Abstract

  Structural elements (3; 13) for civil engineering structures that are configured to temporarily store thermal energy and use them in a deferred form. This structural element transfers thermal energy from the hot or cold source (S) to the structural element, where it extends between the hot or cold source and the structural element so that the thermal energy is temporarily stored. Between the first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of at least one heat exchanger, the structural element and at least one entity (5; 15; 17) outside the structural element A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b) consisting of at least one heat exchanger that, when activated, transfers at least part of the thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element to the entity ; 12a; 12b).

Description

  The present invention relates to thermal energy management for civil engineering structures.

  Conventionally, thermal energy is supplied to the civil engineering structure by specific means, and such specific means is added to the structure strictly in accordance with the purpose. These means include a heater when the internal temperature of the structure has to be increased and / or a cooling device when the internal temperature of the structure has to be reduced.

  In recent years, it has been proposed to use thermal energy available to elements outside the structure and to transfer such thermal energy to the interior of the structure. As an example, geothermal technology captures the amount of heat that is naturally stored at shallow depths of the soil through the absorption of solar energy, or the amount of heat that is naturally stored at deeper depths of the soil through earth's geothermal activity, and this heat is pumped out. For example, it converts into a continuous and instantaneous heating solution inside the house.

  However, such techniques may not be suitable if the structure to be heated or cooled is not a residence but a much larger civil structure such as a stadium, building, or others. In particular, such structures need not continue to be warmed or cooled, but need only be warmed or cooled at certain occasions (eg, games or shows). The reason why such technology is not suitable is that the debit flow of heat taken from the soil can be insufficient for the amount of temperature that should be regulated in a short period of time in the case of large civil engineering buildings. It is.

  Furthermore, to obtain thermal energy using elements external to the structure, a complex, large, and costly geothermal probe network may be constructed, possibly over a long distance from the structure itself. Can be. The removal of such a probe net is also a complicated operation.

  Accordingly, there is a need to improve heating or cooling of structures by at least partially mitigating some or all of the above disadvantages.

Accordingly, the present invention proposes a structural element for civil engineering structures that is configured to temporarily store thermal energy and use it in a deferred form. This structural element is
-At least one heat extending between the hot or cold source and the structural element so as to transfer the thermal energy from the hot or cold source to the structural element where the thermal energy is temporarily stored A first heat exchanger set consisting of exchangers;
-Extending between the structural element and at least one entity external to the structural element and, when activated, at least part of the thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element And a second heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger configured to transmit to the second heat exchanger.

  Such a structural element is a part of (or a part of) a civil engineering structure, and is an element that temporarily stores heat energy. Therefore, the present invention uses this structure itself to generate heat or cold. Therefore, it is possible to avoid building a long and complicated geothermal probe network outside the structure. This also helps if the structure needs to be dismantled, since only a limited portion of the heat exchanger can remain in place after the structural elements are removed.

  Furthermore, by using two different heat exchanger sets in cooperation with the structural element, the structural element is brought to a predetermined temperature in a process that can be continuous in time, and then only when necessary within the structural element. It is possible to increase or decrease the temperature inside the structure using the thermal energy temporarily stored in step (b). This structural element is therefore used as a temporary hot or cold buffer due to its thermal inertia.

According to optional features that can be combined in any practicable form,
-A first heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger is adapted to send heat transfer fluid into the structural element and at least one tube configured to send heat transfer fluid into the hot or cold source A second heat exchanger set comprising at least one tube configured and comprising at least one heat exchanger comprises at least one tube configured to route heat transfer fluid into the structural element;
-A first heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger are configured to send a heat transfer fluid into the structural element Share at least a portion of the at least one tube;
The hot or cold source (S), the structural element (3, 13), and the at least one entity (5, 15, 17) are separate elements;
-This structural element
The structural element comprises a heat storage,
A first heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer thermal energy from a hot or cold source to a heat storage in the structural element;
A second heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer thermal energy between the heat storage and the at least one entity;
-The heat reservoir is at least partially filled with a material capable of storing or releasing thermal energy;
-The heat reservoir comprises a porous material configured to at least partially absorb the lateral and vertical pressure applied by the structure;
-This structural element
A first heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger comprises at least one tube configured to send a heat transfer fluid from a hot or cold source to a heat reservoir;
A second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger is configured with at least one tube configured to send heat transfer fluid from the heat reservoir to the structural element;
-A first heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger, and a heat storage, configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid in the heat storage;
-A second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger, and the heat storage, configured to circulate a heat transfer fluid in the heat storage;
-This structural element
A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of at least one heat exchanger is configured to deliver a first heat transfer fluid;
A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) consisting of at least one heat exchanger is configured to deliver a second heat transfer fluid;
The heat storage section comprises a third heat transfer fluid;
A first heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger, and a heat storage unit for transferring heat between the first heat transfer fluid and the third heat transfer fluid and the heat storage unit; A second heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat between the third heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid;
The storage space is at least partially filled with a particulate material allowing a free flow of heat transfer fluid;
-Hot or cold sources include subsoil and / or aqueous media such as sea water,
-A hot or cold source is a hot source and includes a set of at least one solar probe;
-Said at least one entity comprises another structural element for a civil engineering structure and / or air adjacent to the structural element;
-A second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger is configured to send air at least partially across the structural elements;
-The first and / or second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger utilizes at least one (simple) pump;
-The first and / or second heat exchanger set of at least one heat exchanger utilizes at least one heat pump;
-This structural element is made at least partly with a backfill fixed with at least one reinforcing member within the structural element;
The at least one reinforcing member is connected to an exterior that defines the boundary of the structural element, which is optionally separated from the backfill by an insulating material, such as expanded polystyrene or mineral fibers, at least in one location;
-At least one heat exchanger of the first and / or second heat exchanger set of at least one heat exchanger is connected to the sheath,
-This structural element is configured to form part of one of the stadium structure and the civil engineering structure of the greenhouse and / or
The structural element is configured to support a bench and possibly a playing field, wherein the at least one entity includes a bench and / or air adjacent to the bench.

  The present invention also proposes a civil engineering structure, such as a stadium structure, comprising at least one structural element for temporary storage of heat energy and use in a deferred form as described above.

The present invention also proposes a method for temporarily storing thermal energy in a structural element as described above for use in a deferred form. This method
-A first heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger extending between a hot or cold source and a structural element, transferring thermal energy from the hot or cold source to the structural element, where Maintaining it activated so that thermal energy is temporarily stored; and
-Activating a second heat exchanger set of at least one heat exchanger extending between the structural element and at least one entity external to the structural element when the predetermined criteria are met A second heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer at least a portion of the thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element to the entity. Yes.

The present invention also proposes a method of building a structural element as described above for temporarily storing thermal energy and using it in a deferred form. This method
Providing a first heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger, the first end extending from a hot or cold source;
-Building the structural element as a continuous lift so as to cover the second end of each heat exchanger of the first heat exchanger set;
-Alternating with the step of building the structural element as a continuous lift, a second heat exchanger set of at least one heat exchanger is connected to the first of each heat exchanger of the second heat exchanger set; The end of each of the second heat exchanger sets so as to extend to at least one entity external to the structural element. Includes the step of arranging.

  It will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that the preferred features of the above-described aspects recited in the dependent claims can be combined as appropriate and combined with any of the above-described aspects of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary structural element for a civil engineering structure comprising an exemplary first heat exchanger set. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional top view of a heat exchanger used in the exemplary structural element along II-II in FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary structural element for a civil engineering structure comprising an exemplary second heat exchanger set. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary structural element for a civil engineering structure comprising another exemplary second heat exchanger set. FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary structural element with additional elements. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary structural element that forms part of a stadium. FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary structural element for a civil engineering structure comprising an exemplary heat exchanger set and a heat storage, according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an exemplary structural element for a civil engineering structure comprising an exemplary heat exchanger set and a heat reservoir, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

  One aspect of the present invention relates to a structural element for a civil engineering structure. Any structural element for any kind of civil engineering structure can be envisaged. In the following, the elements for the stadium structure will be discussed in particular, but the general scope of the invention is not limited in any way. Other examples of structures to which the present invention can be applied include, for example, greenhouses, buildings, and / or others.

  Accordingly, FIG. 1 shows a structural element 3 for a stadium in the form of a backfill that will support the bench and possibly be adjacent to the competition field.

  Such a structural element 3 can be made of any kind of natural and / or artificial material. As an example, the structural element 3 can include soil or soil, and in some cases the soil or soil is immobilized. Alternatively or additionally, the structural element 3 can comprise concrete, possibly recycled concrete, steel, and / or others.

  The structural element 3 is configured to temporarily store heat energy, that is, heat or cold, and use it in a deferred form.

  To do this, the structural element 3 is provided with two different heat exchanger sets, each consisting of at least one heat exchanger.

  FIG. 1 shows a first heat exchanger set 1. These heat exchangers extend between the hot or cold source S and the structural element 3.

  In the illustrated example, the hot or cold source S includes subsoil, on which the structural element 3 is located. Alternatively or additionally, the hot or cold source S can include other subsoils, for example subsoils located away from and / or not under the structural element 3. Alternatively or additionally, the hot or cold source S can include an aqueous medium such as seawater, groundwater, and / or the like, in which the heat exchangers of the first heat exchanger set 1 Immerse one end.

  Alternatively, or in addition, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other variations of the hot or cold source S can be envisaged. In one advantageous example, S may be a thermal source and includes a set of at least one solar probe to utilize heat generated from the sun.

  Note that different heat sources can be used depending on whether hot or cold is sought. Alternatively, a single heat source can be used as a hot or cold source, for example depending on the external temperature. For example, the subsoil S under the structural element 3 can be used as a heat source during the winter when the temperature is low, and as a cold source during the summer when the temperature is high.

  In the example of FIG. 1, the first heat exchanger set consists of tubes containing any kind of heat transfer fluid, such as water and / or others, and these tubes are divided into two main parts . The lower part of the heat exchanger comprises a vertical pipe part, while the upper part of the heat exchanger comprises a horizontal pipe part.

  At the bottom, the tube can be closed so that the heat exchanger acts as a closed loop. Such a closed loop is adapted, for example, when the hot or cold source S is composed of subsoil. Alternatively, the tube can be opened so that the heat exchanger acts as an open loop. Such an open loop is adapted, for example, when the hot or cold source S contains an aquatic medium. At the bottom, as shown in FIG. 1, these tubes may be substantially parallel and / or the same length.

  At the top, the heat exchangers of the first heat exchanger set 1 can be closed. These heat exchangers can be arranged as overlapping layers as shown in FIG. Each of these heat exchangers can be included in a substantially horizontal plane. Alternatively, or in addition, each layer of the heat exchanger can include several branches, as shown in the top view of FIG.

  It should be noted that the geometry of the first heat exchanger set 1 can take a variety of forms, and the above examples should not be construed as limiting in any way. For example, the heat exchanger may not have a vertical and / or parallel bottom. The heat exchanger may not be horizontal and / or parallel at the top. The heat exchanger may not have two different parts. As another non-limiting example, the first heat exchanger set 1 can consist only of a series of vertical tubes extending from the subsoil S to the structural element 3. At least some of the heat exchangers in the first heat exchanger set 1 may not have a straight path.

  At least some of the first heat exchanger set 1 can be at least partly arranged and cooperated with a civil engineering structure, for example a stadium foundation.

  In any case, the thermal energy is transferred by the first heat exchanger set 1 from the hot or cold source S to the structural element 3 where it is temporarily stored.

  Such a transfer can result from the natural circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the heat exchangers of the first heat exchanger set 1.

  Advantageously, in the first heat exchanger set 1, as shown in FIG. 1, an additional device 4 can be used to facilitate the transfer of thermal energy. This device 4 can comprise at least one simple pump that promotes the circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the heat exchanger, thereby increasing the heat exchange between the hot or cold source S and the structural element 3 Those skilled in the art will readily understand that this is possible.

  Alternatively or additionally, the device 4 can comprise at least one heat pump. Such a heat pump can be provided with at least a condenser, an expansion valve, an evaporator, and a compressor as usual, and the effect of offsetting the temperature of the first heat exchanger set 1 and the temperature of the hot or cold source S It will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that Compared with the simple pump, it is possible to increase the heat exchange between the hot or cold heat source S and the structural element 3 by using the heat pump. Therefore, the structural element 3 can be cooled or heated according to the required result.

  Note that the location and number of simple pumps and / or heat pumps may vary and may differ from the examples shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 for illustrative purposes.

  In the accompanying drawings, the high temperature portion and the low temperature portion of the heat exchanger are schematically indicated by thick lines and thin lines, respectively. However, it should be understood that this representation is merely illustrative of the direction of heat energy transfer and should not be interpreted as a strict boundary.

  The example shown in FIG. 1 corresponds more specifically to the cooling process of the structural element 3 and the heating of the cold heat source S that occurs at the same time, and using the first heat exchanger set 1, the structural element from the cold heat source S is used. It can be seen that cold heat is sent to 3 and at the same time, warm heat is sent from the structural element 3 to the cold heat source S. If the transfer of thermal energy is in the opposite direction, the structural element 3 will be heated by the heat source S via the first heat exchanger set 1.

  The first heat exchanger set 1 can be kept activated for a predetermined period of time, which may be long, such as several days, weeks, or months. The first heat exchanger set 1 can be kept activated continuously or semi-continuously. By doing so, the structural element 3 reaches a predetermined temperature, and a predetermined amount of heat energy can be reliably stored.

  Thereafter, the thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element 3 as described above, and thus in the civil engineering structure of which the structural element 3 is a part, is at least partly at least external to the structural element 3 It will be transmitted to one entity.

  The entity may include another structural element for a civil engineering structure of which the structural element 3 is a part. For example, with respect to a stadium structure, the entity may include a bench. Alternatively or additionally, the entity may include air adjacent to the structural element 3. For example, with respect to a stadium structure, the entity may include air adjacent to a bench supported by structural element 3, or more generally located at or near the center of the stadium. Air may be included. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other types of entities can be envisioned depending on the application.

  At least one heat exchanger extending between the structural element 3 and the entity for transferring at least part of the thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element 3 to the at least one entity Start a second heat exchanger set consisting of

  Activation of the second heat exchanger set of at least one heat exchanger can be performed as a result of fulfilling predetermined criteria. In this respect, any possible criteria are envisaged. As an example, this criterion can be related to the use of civil engineering structures of which the structural element 3 is a part. With respect to the stadium, such criteria may include at the beginning of a match or before (eg, several hours before) a match. Other opportunities such as shows, regular events, and / or others can also be the basis on which predetermined criteria are met. Dynamic parameters such as temperature, for example, air temperature, structural element 3 temperature, entity temperature, and / or other element temperature can be taken into account when considering the criteria.

  Detection of whether predetermined criteria are met and / or the activation of a second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger as a result is fully automatic, fully manual or automatic operation And manual operation can be combined.

  Since the thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element 3 is transferred at least in part to the entity only when the second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger is activated, That is, in some cases, thermal energy may be transmitted long after it begins to be stored in the structural element 3, which can be regarded as a deferred use of such thermal energy. Such deferred use differs from the prior art, i.e. only one heat exchanger set is required and / or the heat energy obtained by this heat exchanger set is used directly and without delay. It is.

  FIGS. 3 and 4 show two examples of a second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger, each of which is at least one of the heat energy temporarily stored in the structural element 3 Some can be used to communicate to the respective entity. These two examples can be performed alone or in combination. In these examples, as a result of the above-described action by the first heat exchanger set 1 consisting of at least one heat exchanger, cold is temporarily stored in the structural element 3, at least part of the cold is It is assumed that the heat is transmitted through a second heat exchanger set including the at least one heat exchanger. However, it should be understood that the same type of configuration can be used to utilize the heat temporarily stored in the structural element 3.

  In the example of FIG. 3, the second heat exchanger set 2a is configured to flow air over the structural element 3 at least in part. For this purpose, the second heat exchanger set 2a has at least one inlet for hot ambient air (at the left end of the structural element 3 in FIG. 3) and for refreshed air. And at least one outlet (several outlets at the right end of the structural element 3 of FIG. 3).

  In this case, the incoming air flows into the heat exchanger of the second heat exchanger set 2a from the outside of the structural element 3 and spreads throughout the structural element 3. The incoming air is thus refreshed by the heat exchanger being in contact with the structural element 3 that stores the cold. The refreshed air exits the heat exchanger in the second heat exchanger set 2a and mixes with the hot ambient air adjacent to the structural element 3.

  The air can be pulsed using conventional pulse means, such as a fan, so that the air flows through the heat exchangers of the second heat exchanger set 2a and throughout the structural element 3. Alternatively or additionally, the air can simply be aspirated by natural convection air flow organized within the civil engineering structure. In the case of a stadium, air can actually flow from the outside to the inside of the stadium, for example by flowing out of a hole in the stadium roof.

  With such a configuration, a spectator sitting on a bench and / or an athlete standing on the playing field of the stadium can be refreshed by receiving refreshed air.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the device 9 may be placed at the outlet of some or all of the heat exchangers of the second heat exchanger set 2a so as to regulate the ventilation flow to the desired intensity. it can. Using these devices 9, the second heat exchanger set 2a can be started or stopped.

  In the example of FIG. 4, the second heat exchanger set 2 b extends between the structural element 3 and the bench supported by the structural element 3. Alternatively or additionally, the second heat exchanger set 2b can also extend between the structural element 3 and the adjacent playing field.

  The second heat exchanger set 2b can include tubes filled with a heat transfer fluid, for example in a closed loop.

  Similar to the first heat exchanger set 1 described above, using one or several simple pumps or heat pumps 10 between the structural element 3 and the bench (or any other suitable entity) Heat exchange can be promoted. Using these pumps 10, the second heat exchanger set 2b can be started or stopped.

  With this configuration, a spectator sitting on a bench supported by structural element 3 and / or an athlete standing on a competition field adjacent to structural element 3 can be considered to have a refreshed bench and / or competition field. You can refresh by touching or in the vicinity.

  In FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the second heat exchanger set is displayed as overlapping substantially parallel layers. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other suitable geometries can be applied to the second heat exchanger set as described above for the first heat exchanger set 1. As an example, at least some of the heat exchangers of the second heat exchanger set may be independent. As another example, for at least some of the heat exchangers of the second heat exchanger set, a non-linear path, for example a wavy path, can also be envisaged.

  FIG. 5 shows an exemplary configuration of the structural element 3 that can be provided with first and second heat exchanger sets comprising at least one heat exchanger as described above.

  This structural element 3 of FIG. 5 is at least partly made of backfill, which is advantageously fixed in the structural element 3 with at least one reinforcing member (not shown). Yes. The structural element 3 is constituted, for example, by fixing the soil or the soil and possibly compacting it as usual. In this regard, the Reinforced Earth company® prior art or similar technology can be used.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the boundary of the backfill can be defined by the exterior 6. In addition, one or several reinforcing members extending into the backfill can be connected to the sheath. Alternatively or additionally, one or several reinforcing members can be separated from the sheath. Reinforcing members can take a variety of forms, and can use a variety of materials such as metals (e.g., galvanized steel), chemical compounds (e.g., based on polyester fibers), and combinations thereof. it can. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these reinforcing members can be placed in the backfill at a density that depends on the stress that is to be applied to the structure.

  The sheath 6 can be made by placing ready-made concrete elements, for example in the form of slabs or blocks, in close proximity to cover the front of the structure. The sheath 6 can also be constructed by pouring concrete or special cement in situ.

  Advantageously, the sheath 6 can be separated from the backfill by a heat insulating material 7, such as expanded polystyrene, mineral fibers, and / or others, at at least one location (possibly the entire inner surface of the sheath 6). . By doing so, it is avoided that a large amount of the thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element 3 flows out of the exterior 6. If the heat exchanger has to be removed from the structural element, the corresponding holes can be limitedly arranged in the sheath 6 and the heat insulating material 7 for this purpose.

  In one advantageous configuration, at least part of the first and / or second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger can simultaneously serve as a reinforcing member for fixing the structural element 3. it can. In this case, at least one heat exchanger of the first and / or second heat exchanger set including at least one heat exchanger can be connected to the exterior 6. In particular, the horizontal portion of the heat exchanger of the first heat exchanger set 1 and / or the second heat exchanger sets 2a to 2b described above is further used as a reinforcing member for fixing the structural element 3. can do. Thus, independent provision of the heat exchanger and the reinforcing member is avoided, thereby reducing both the time required to build the structure and its cost.

  As assumed above, if the structural element 3 is part of a stadium, the bench 5 can define the other boundary of the structural element 3 on the opposite side of the exterior 6. Such a bench 5 can have the same composition as the structural element 3, for example immobilized soil or soil. Alternatively or additionally, different materials can be used for the bench 5, such as wood, cement, concrete, and / or others.

  Various elements can be arranged on or in at least a part of the structural element 3. For example, doorways, stair seats, and / or handrails can be placed in the backfill. Cubicles, technical premise, doorway tunnels, and / or shops can be located inside the backfill. These elements can be cooled or heated as required by the first and / or second heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger as described above.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the cover 8 can be laid or laid over the backfill. This cover can serve as a roofing material that prevents rainwater from entering, or can be airtight.

  It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other configurations for the structural elements can be envisioned within the framework of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows a portion of a stadium structure that includes an exemplary structural element 13, which may be the same as or similar to the structural element 3 described above. This structural element 13 includes
A heat exchanger set 11 (herein this may be the same as or similar to the first heat exchanger set 1 consisting of at least one heat exchanger as described above, optionally connected to a simple pump or heat pump 14. Is shown as a vertical, separate heat exchanger)
A heat exchanger set 12a, which may be the same as or similar to the second heat exchanger set 2a comprising at least one heat exchanger as described above (here a separate undulating heat exchanger extending over the entire structural element 3 Displayed)
A heat exchanger set 12b, which may be the same as or similar to the second heat exchanger set 2b consisting of at least one heat exchanger as described above, optionally connected to a simple pump or heat pump 20,
-An exterior 16 is provided which may be the same as or similar to the aforementioned exterior 6.

  Other elements can be connected to the structural element 13. For example, the bench 15 is supported by the structural element 13. A playing field 17 is arranged adjacent to the structural element 13. For example, a reinforcing material can be disposed inside the structural element 13.

  According to one embodiment, the first heat exchanger set 11 corresponds to that previously described, and in particular the first heat exchanger set is configured to send a heat transfer fluid into a hot or cold source. And a tube configured to send a heat transfer fluid into the structural element 13.

  The second heat exchanger set can also comprise a tube configured to route heat transfer fluid into the structural element 13.

  According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the first heat exchanger set and the second heat exchanger set share a portion of the tube configured to deliver heat transfer fluid into the structural element. To do.

  7 and 8 show a portion of a structural element 13 according to an embodiment of the present invention. According to these embodiments, the structural element 13 comprises a heat reservoir 30, a first heat exchanger set comprising a tube 31 configured to deliver a first heat transfer fluid, and a second heat transfer. And a second heat exchanger set comprising a tube 32 configured to deliver fluid.

  In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the first and second heat exchanger sets comprise tubes configured to circulate through the heat storage unit 30.

  According to such embodiments of the present invention, these heat exchangers can be arranged in layers, for example included in a substantially horizontal plane or a vertical plane, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, each heat exchanger can include several branches.

  The geometry of these heat exchangers can take a variety of forms, and the above examples should not be construed as limiting in any way. For example, the heat exchanger may not be vertical and / or parallel. The heat exchanger may not be horizontal and / or parallel. The heat exchanger may not have two different parts. At least some of the heat exchangers of the first and second heat exchanger sets may not have a straight path.

  The heat storage unit 30 is configured to absorb lateral and vertical pressure applied by the structure and to store and release thermal energy. For example, the heat storage unit 30 can be separated by a liner filled with soil, soil, earth or sand, or rock.

  The tubes of the first and second heat exchanger sets are closed so that the heat exchanger acts as a closed loop.

  For example, the first heat exchanger set can circulate a hot fluid through the tubes in the heat storage section of the first heat exchanger set so as to heat the material provided in the heat storage section. According to this embodiment, the heat transfer fluid remains in the tube and does not come into contact with the material provided in the heat reservoir.

  If desired, the second heat transfer fluid can be circulated through a tube in the heat storage section of the second heat exchanger set. The second heat transfer fluid is heated by the porous material through the tube.

  According to such an embodiment, no fluid exchange occurs between the first and second heat exchanger sets and the heat storage unit. Such heat transfer can also be applied to cold sources.

  Advantageously, the structural element 13 according to the embodiment of FIG. 7 exhibits a high thermal inertia and thus it is possible to slowly release the thermal energy stored in the heat storage.

  According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the heat storage unit 30 is filled with a porous material configured to be able to absorb lateral and vertical pressure applied by the structure. For example, the heat storage 30 can be filled with soil or soil or pebbles or gravel or rock.

  A good porous material must be sturdy, hard to wear, strong, well drained, difficult to deform, readily available and reasonably cheap to purchase.

  For example, the porous material is made of natural crushed stone with a particle size between 28 mm and 50 mm. If the ratio of finer particles is higher than that, the drainage property is reduced, and if the ratio of larger-diameter particles is higher than this, the dispersion of the load becomes inappropriate. Squared stones are preferred over naturally rounded stones, because the squared stones lock together.

  In this regard, granite is one of the best materials. It is also possible to use slag produced by a blast furnace. In general, the materials used for orbital ballast are suitable as porous materials.

  The tubes of the first and second heat exchanger sets are open so that the heat transfer fluid is circulated through the porous material of the heat reservoir.

  For example, the first heat exchanger set can circulate a hot fluid in the heat storage so as to heat the porous material provided in the heat storage.

  If necessary, a second heat exchanger set can be used to circulate the second heat transfer fluid in the heat store. The second heat transfer fluid is heated by the porous material.

  Such heat transfer can also be applied to cold sources.

  Advantageously, the structural element 13 according to the embodiment of FIG. 8 exhibits a high heat exchange rate between the porous material and the heat exchange fluid circulating in the porous material provided in the reservoir.

  One skilled in the art will appreciate that other configurations can be envisioned. Their configuration can be adapted depending on the nature and usage of the civil engineering structure being considered.

The construction of the structural element 3 or 13 described above can be carried out by the following steps.
Providing a first heat exchanger set 1 or 11 consisting of at least one heat exchanger, the first end of which extends from a hot or cold source S; With respect to the above example, this stage involves placing the lower part of the heat exchanger in subsoil or an aqueous medium while keeping the upper part of the heat exchanger of the first heat exchanger set 1 or 11 upward. Can be equivalent to
Building the structural element 3 or 13 as a continuous lift so as to cover the second end of each heat exchanger of the first heat exchanger set 1 or 11; When this operation is completed, the first heat exchanger set 1 or 11 is completely covered by the structural element 3 or 13.
-A second heat exchanger set 2a, 2b, 12a and / or 12b consisting of at least one heat exchanger, alternating with the step of building the structural element 3 or 13 as a continuous lift (or layer), A first end of each heat exchanger of the second heat exchanger set is surrounded by a structural element 3 or 13, and a second end of each heat exchanger of the second heat exchange set. Placing the end so that it extends to at least one entity outside the structural element. For example, a first lift of the structural element can be placed on the ground, and then at least one first heat exchanger of the second heat exchanger set can be installed on this first lift. This step can be repeated until all of the heat exchangers in the second heat exchanger set are in place. Finally, the top of the second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger is covered by the last lift of the structural element. Similarly to the first heat exchanger set, the second heat exchanger set is finally completely surrounded by the structural elements.

  Alternatively, or in addition, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other construction methods can be implemented.

  Note that the removal or removal of such structural elements 3 or 13 is not a very complex task. For example, when the structural element is mainly made of soil, the soil can be removed little by little. The second heat exchanger set exposed by this operation can then be removed, and possibly the heat exchanger (and / or other elements) of the first heat exchanger set. Most or all of these elements can be reused later when building new structures at the same location or elsewhere.

1, 11 First heat exchanger set comprising at least one heat exchanger
2a, 2b, 12a, 12b Second heat exchanger set consisting of at least one heat exchanger
3, 13 Structural elements
4, 10, 14, 20 At least one pump (simple or heat pump)
5, 15 At least one entity (bench)
17 At least one entity (competition field)
6, 16 Exterior
7 Insulation material
8 Cover
9 Equipment
30 heat storage
31, 32 tubes
S Hot or cold source

Claims (26)

A structural element (3; 13) for civil engineering structures, configured to temporarily store thermal energy and use it in a deferred form,
-Extending between the hot or cold source and the structural element so as to transfer thermal energy from the hot or cold source (S) to the structural element where the thermal energy is temporarily stored; A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of at least one heat exchanger,
-Extending between the structural element and at least one entity (5; 15; 17) external to the structural element, and when activated, of thermal energy temporarily stored in the structural element A structural element (3; 13) comprising a second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) comprising at least one heat exchanger configured to transmit at least a portion to the entity. ).   A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of the at least one heat exchanger, at least one tube configured to send a heat transfer fluid into the hot or cold source (S); and A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; comprising at least one tube configured to send a heat transfer fluid into the structural element (3; 13) and comprising the at least one heat exchanger The structural element (3; 13) of claim 1, wherein 12b) comprises at least one tube configured to deliver a heat transfer fluid into the structural element.   A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) comprising the at least one heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) comprising the at least one heat exchanger. The structural element (3; 13) of claim 2, sharing at least a portion of the at least one tube configured to deliver a heat transfer fluid into the structural element.   The hot or cold source (S), the structural element (3; 13), and the at least one entity (5; 15; 17) are separate elements. Structural elements as described in (3; 13). -The structural element comprises a heat storage;
-A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of the at least one heat exchanger from the hot or cold source (S) to the heat storage in the structural element (3; 13). Configured to transfer thermal energy,
-A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) comprising the at least one heat exchanger is located between the heat storage and the at least one entity (5; 15; 17) The structural element (3; 13) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the structural element (3; 13) is configured to transfer thermal energy at   The structural element (3; 13) according to claim 5, wherein the heat storage part is at least partially filled with a material capable of storing or releasing thermal energy.   The structural element (3; 13) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the heat reservoir comprises a porous material configured to at least partially absorb lateral and vertical pressure exerted by the structure. ). -A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of the at least one heat exchanger is configured to send a heat transfer fluid from the hot or cold source (S) to the heat reservoir With at least one tube,
-A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) comprising the at least one heat exchanger is configured to deliver heat transfer fluid from the heat reservoir to the structural element The structural element (3; 13) according to any of claims 5 to 7, comprising one tube.   The first heat exchanger set (1; 11) comprising the at least one heat exchanger, and the heat storage unit, configured to circulate the heat transfer fluid in the heat storage unit. Structural element according to 8, (3; 13).   A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) comprising the at least one heat exchanger, and the heat storage unit configured to circulate the heat transfer fluid in the heat storage unit. The structural element (3; 13) according to claim 8 or 9. -A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of said at least one heat exchanger is configured to deliver a first heat transfer fluid;
-A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) consisting of at least one heat exchanger is configured to deliver a second heat transfer fluid;
-The heat store comprises a third heat transfer fluid;
The first heat exchanger set (1; 11) composed of the at least one heat exchanger, and the heat storage unit include the first heat transfer fluid and the third heat transfer fluid, and the heat storage unit. A second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) composed of the at least one heat exchanger is configured to transfer heat to and from the third heat transfer fluid, 9. The structural element (3; 13) according to claim 8, configured to transfer heat to and from a second heat transfer fluid.   12. The structural element (3; 13) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the hot or cold source (S) comprises a subsoil and / or an aqueous medium such as sea water.   13. The structural element (3; 13) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the hot or cold source (S) is a hot source and comprises a set of at least one solar probe.   The at least one entity (5; 15; 17) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising another structural element for the civil engineering structure and / or air adjacent to the structural element. The described structural element (3; 13).   15.A second heat exchanger set (2a; 12a) consisting of the at least one heat exchanger is configured to send air at least partially across the structural element. Structural element according to paragraph (3; 13).   16.A first and / or second heat exchanger set consisting of the at least one heat exchanger utilizes at least one pump (4; 10; 14; 20). Structural elements as described in (3; 13).   The first and / or second heat exchanger set consisting of the at least one heat exchanger utilizes at least one heat pump (4; 10; 14; 20). Structural element according to paragraph (3; 13).   18. The structural element (3; 13) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the structural element is made at least partly with backfill.   19. The structural element (3; 13) according to claim 18, wherein the backfill is fixed with at least one reinforcing member within the structural element.   At least one reinforcing member is connected to a sheath (6; 16) that delimits the structural elements, and the sheath is possibly at least at one location by a heat insulating material (7) such as expanded polystyrene or mineral fiber. 20. Structural element (3; 13) according to claim 18 or 19, which is separated from the backfill.   20.The heat exchanger according to claim 19, wherein at least one heat exchanger of the first and / or second heat exchanger set consisting of the at least one heat exchanger is connected to the sheath (6; 16). Structural element (3; 13).   The structural element (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structural element is configured to form part of one of a stadium structure or a civil engineering structure of a building such as a greenhouse. 13).   23. Structural element (3; 13) according to claim 22, wherein said structural element is configured to support a bench (5; 15) and possibly a playing field (17).   A stadium structure or the like comprising at least one structural element (3; 13) for temporarily storing thermal energy and using it in a deferred form according to any one of claims 1 to 23. Civil engineering structures. A method of temporarily storing thermal energy in a structural element (3; 13) according to any one of claims 1 to 23 and using it in a deferred form,
A first heat exchanger set (1; 11) consisting of at least one heat exchanger extending between a hot or cold source (S) and the structural element from the hot or cold source, the Transferring thermal energy to the structural element, where the thermal energy is temporarily stored so that it is activated and maintained;
A first heat exchanger comprising at least one heat exchanger extending between the structural element and at least one entity (5; 15; 17) external to the structural element if a predetermined criterion is met Activating two heat exchanger sets (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b), wherein a second heat exchanger set consisting of said at least one heat exchanger is temporarily stored in said structural element A method configured to transfer at least a portion of the thermal energy that is generated to the entity. A method for temporarily storing thermal energy and constructing a structural element (3; 13) for use in a deferred form according to any one of claims 1 to 23,
-Providing a first heat exchanger set (1; 11) comprising at least one heat exchanger, the first end extending from a hot or cold source (S);
-Building the structural element as a continuous lift so as to cover the second end of each heat exchanger of the first heat exchanger set;
-Alternating with the step of building the structural element as a continuous lift, a second heat exchanger set (2a; 2b; 12a; 12b) comprising at least one heat exchanger; The first end of each heat exchanger of the set is surrounded by the structural element, and the second end of each heat exchanger of the second heat exchanger set is the structural element. Arranging to extend to at least one external entity (5; 15; 17).

Images