WO2022074520A1

WO2022074520A1 - Heat exchange tank

Info

Publication number: WO2022074520A1
Application number: PCT/IB2021/059000
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michele DORIGO
Original assignee: Energy Plus Project Di Dorigo Michele
Priority date: 2020-10-06
Filing date: 2021-09-30
Publication date: 2022-04-14
Also published as: IT202000023503A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a heat exchange tank (100) for the storage and thermal conditioning of a first fluid by means of a second conditioning fluid. The heat exchange tank (100) comprises a first tank body (102) which defines a first internal cavity (102i) adapted to contain and transport one of the first fluid and the second fluid from a first inlet (104i) to a first outlet (104o) of the first tank body (102); inside the first cavity (102i) there being at least partially arranged a second conduit (106) adapted to contain and transport the other of the first fluid and the second fluid from a second inlet (106i) to a second outlet (106o) of the second conduit (106). Specifically, the first tank body (102) has a plate-like shape and it is provided with a first pair of opposite main walls (108, 110) having continuous surfaces and peripherally connected to each other by first edge walls (112).

Description

HEAT EXCHANGE TANK

DESCRIPTION

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001 ] The present invention relates to a heat exchange tank for the storage and thermal conditioning of a fluid, such as domestic water, preferably for the residential, commercial, industrial, sports, recreational building industries or the like.

STATE OF THE PRIOR ART

[0002] Heat exchange tanks, such as for example boilers, for the production of hot domestic water are known in the state of the art. Domestic water is water intended for preferably human consumption, such as water used for drinking, cooking, washing or bathing, and for other uses in the residential, commercial, industrial, sports, recreational building industries or the like. Domestic water is supplied by means of a water mains or storage systems of the known type.

[0003] Two systems for the production of hot domestic water are generally used: instantaneous systems and storage systems. Instantaneous systems are designed to meet hot water demand through direct, that is instantaneous, production of the amount of hot water to be used which needs to be instantaneously heated from 10°C to about 40°C. On the other hand, storage systems are designed to meet demand by means of a preheated water reservoir. Compared to the instantaneous system, the storage system allows to use less powerful heat generating units and provides for a more continuous and smooth operation of the system. This condition allows to ensure an improved thermal efficiency and the possibility to choose from among various types of heat generating units such as conventional boilers, units which use renewable energy sources, and the like.

[0004] Typically, a storage system requires a tank having a capacity suitable to store pre-heated domestic water. A tube, arranged for example by forming a spiral, in which technical water - that is a thermal conditioning or heat carrier fluid coming from the heat generation unit - circulates, is provided for in the tank. This allows to transfer thermal energy between the technical water and the domestic water, through the walls of said tube, thermally conditioning the domestic water, for example heating it. However, storage systems of the known type reveal some drawbacks.

[0005] As a matter fact, it is necessary to provide for a relatively large tank so as to provide an adequate containment capacity for the hot domestic water demand. Therefore, these tanks pose considerable limitations for installation at a wall or in a room, that is they are difficult to install.

[0006] In particular, the tank is generally cylindrical-shaped and the overall dimensions thereof limit the usable space in the room in which it is installed, furthermore, altering the appearance or function thereof. Therefore, typically, a specific room in which said tank is installed, or the presence thereof is tolerated at the expense of the usable space and/or the appearance and/or function of the room, is identified. It is clear that the possible reduction of the overall dimensions of the tank, in order to solve problems relating to positioning for example in a house, can cause an undesired decrease in the available amount of hot domestic water.

[0007] On the other hand, a large size of the tank is generally needed to obtain a large heat exchange surface between the domestic water and the technical water, ensuring a desired homogeneity of the temperature of the hot domestic water in the tank. However, the large dimensions of the tank can make the risk of formation of legionella therein more likely due to the possible presence of stagnant water areas, ideal for a proliferation of the legionella bacterium which typically occurs at about 40°C.

[0008] Furthermore, in the case of centralised tanks having very large dimensions - for example in a condominium - meeting the demand of a plurality of apartments will likely lead to high waste of energy. As a matter fact, in this case, the high amount of stored water must be maintained at a constant temperature regardless of the number of users and their habits. Besides this, the storage tank is almost always arranged in unheated technical rooms, resulting in high thermal losses and energy waste. Lastly, ensuring that the hot domestic water reaches every single tap, or user, within a reasonable time (as indicated in the UNI 9182 standard), requires using a recirculation system, with ensuing high energy losses and additional electric consumption.

[0009] Therefore, there is the need to find a solution which overcomes the drawbacks described above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] A task of the present invention is to provide a heat exchange tank for the storage and thermal conditioning of a first fluid by means of a second fluid, or possibly several fluids. Specifically, the heat exchange tank according to the present invention provides for a high capacity for containing fluids, while at the same time ensuring easy installation at a wall, at a false ceiling, or within a space, such as a room, without altering the appearance or function thereof. In this condition, the heat exchange tank is very versatile and the design of the spaces or rooms in which it is installed is facilitated.

[0011 ] In the context of the task outlined above, an object of the present invention relates to providing a heat exchange tank which provides for a structure that is stable, that can be easily installed, of the concealable or substantially invisible type, at a wall or within a space, such as a room, allowing multiple possible orientations, or positioning combinations.

[0012] A further object relates to providing a heat exchange tank having a structural stability suitable to maintain a stable conformation in the various possible installation orientations.

[0013] A further object relates to providing a heat exchange tank in which it is easy to adjust - at the design stage - the capacity for containing the fluids.

[0014] A further object relates to providing a heat exchange tank that is simple to construct and reliable to operate.

[0015] A further object relates to providing a heat exchange tank which provides for an efficient heat exchange between the fluids so as to reduce energy waste and, as a result, reduce the waste of amount of conditioning fluid.

[0016] The aforementioned task and objects, as well as others which will be more apparent from the following description, are achieved by means of a heat exchange tank as defined in the independent claim 1. Further preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0017] The further characteristics and advantages of the heat exchange tank according to the present invention will become more evident in the following description relating to preferred but non-limiting embodiments, with reference to the following figures wherein:

- Fig. 1 is a plan view of a heat exchange tank, according to a first preferred embodiment,

- Fig. 2 is a plan view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 1 , in which one of the main walls is removed,

- Fig. 3 is a first lateral view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 1 ,

- Fig. 4 is a second lateral view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 1 ,

- Fig. 5 is a sectional view taken along a line A-A in Fig. 2,

- Fig. 6 is a sectional view taken along a line B-B in Fig. 2,

- Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a heat exchange tank, according to a preferred embodiment, - Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 7, in which one of the edge walls is removed,

- Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the heat exchange tank sectioned along an inclined plane passing through the line C-C of Fig. 7,

- Fig. 10 is perspective view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 7, in which one of the main walls is removed,

- Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the heat exchange tank sectioned along a horizontal plane passing through the line D-D of Fig. 7,

- Fig. 12 is a transparent perspective view of a heat exchange tank, according to a third preferred embodiment,

- Fig. 13 is a plan view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 12 sectioned along a horizontal plane passing through the line E-E of Fig. 12,

- Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a heat exchange tank, according to a fourth preferred embodiment, in which one of the edge walls is removed,

- Fig. 15 is perspective view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 14, in which one of the main walls is removed,

- Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a heat exchange tank, according to a fifth preferred embodiment,

- Fig. 17 is a perspective view of the heat exchange tank of Fig. 16, in which one of the edge walls is removed,

- Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a heat exchange tank, according to a sixth preferred embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] In the description below, expressions such as “upper”, “lower”, “horizontal”, “vertical” and the like relate to a heat exchange tank, according to the present invention, as shown in the attached drawings.

[0019] The preferred embodiment described below relates to the application of the invention for the storage and production of hot domestic water by means of technical water in the residential, commercial, industrial, chemical, sports and recreational industries or the like. However, this embodiment shall not be considered as limiting the scope of the invention, and the latter can be applied in other industries besides the construction industry, for example in the transportation or process industries, by using fluids other than water, which are selected according to the application and the heat exchange tank. [0020] With reference to Figs. 1 to 6, shown is a heat exchange tank 100, according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention, for the storage and thermal conditioning of a first fluid, such as preferably domestic water, by means of a second conditioning fluid, such as preferably technical heating water.

[0021] The heat exchange tank 100 comprises a first tank body 102 which defines a first internal cavity 102i adapted to contain and transport the second conditioning fluid, such as preferably technical water, from a first inlet 104i to a first outlet 104o of said first tank body 102.

[0022] A second conduit 106 adapted to contain and transport the first fluid, preferably such as domestic water, from a second inlet 106i to a second outlet 106o of the second conduit 106 is at least partially arranged in the first cavity 102i.

[0023] In this preferred embodiment, the second conduit 106 consists of a tube bent several times forming a serpentine-like path extending over two levels or planes in the first cavity 102i (see in particular Figs. 5 and 6). However, this construction is not limiting and further embodiments in which the second conduit 106 at least partially forms further paths such as, for example, a meander path, spiral path and the like, or combinations thereof in which, optionally, the second conduit 106 extends on one or more levels, can be provided for. In particular, the arrangement and the number of levels of the second conduit 106 in the first cavity 102i is suitably selected so as to maximise, or adjust, the containment capacity of the first fluid in the heat exchange tank 100.

[0024] The second conduit 106 is configured so as to keep said first fluid and said second fluid separate from each other and to provide a heat exchange between them. Specifically, the second conduit 106 has walls made of thermally conductive material, for example a metal such as preferably stainless steel or copper, so as to allow heat exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid which flow, respectively, inside and outside the second conduit 106. However, this selection shall not be deemed limiting and the material that the second conduit 106 is made may be suitably selected so as to obtain an efficient heat exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid.

[0025] The second fluid is adapted to thermally condition the temperature of the first fluid by means of the heat exchange tank 100. In particular, the second conditioning fluid, such as technical water, acts as a thermal carrier adapted to heat the first fluid, such as domestic water, so as to produce hot domestic water. However, this embodiment shall not be deemed as limiting and the fluids may be the most suitable depending on the function of the heat exchange tank 100 (for example, the second fluid may be a gas) and, possibly, the thermal conditioning may provide for a cooling of the first fluid instead of heating it.

[0026] Typically, the second fluid (i. e. technical water) has a temperature ranging from about +40 to +80 °C and it is supplied to the heat exchange tank 100, through the first inlet 104i and the first outlet 104o of the first tank body 102, by means of a unit for generating heat through a respective circuit, according to configurations known in the state of the art (not shown in the figures). The heat generation unit may be selected from among various known types such as conventional boilers fuelled by gas or any other fuel, systems which use renewable energy sources, such as for example solar energy, heat pumps, apparatuses that extract energy from biomass, or the like.

[0027] On the other hand, domestic water is supplied to the heat exchange tank 100 and distributed to the appliances, through the second inlet 106i and the second outlet 106o of the second conduit 106, by means of a water mains or a storage system through a respective circuit, according to configurations known in the state of the art. (not shown in the figures).

[0028] According to the present invention, the first tank body 102 is plate-shaped, i.e. it has a plate-like shape, and it is provided with a first pair of main walls, such as a first upper main wall 108 and a first lower main wall 110, which are opposite and peripherally connected to each other by first edge walls 112. Both of the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, provide for larger extension surfaces which are continuous and which are, furthermore, larger than the larger extension surfaces of the first edge walls 112.

[0029] In this embodiment, the first plate-like tank body 102 has a substantially flatshaped paralleletubed in which the first upper main wall 108 and the first lower main wall 110 consist of rectangular-shaped planar sheets arranged parallel to each other. However, this embodiment shall not be deemed as limiting and the first tank body 102 may provide for any plate-like shape (for example with main walls shaped to form a square, trapezium or the like) which, possibly, may be at least partially arched.

[0030] In the present description, the expression “plate-like” is used to indicate a plateshaped element in which the smaller of the length and width dimensions defining the main surfaces, such as the first main walls 108 and 110 of the first tank body 102, is substantially at least three (preferably at least five) times greater than the distance separating the main walls; i.e. at least three (preferably at least five) times greater than the thickness of the plate.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the first tank body 102, preferably made of stainless steel, it has a fluid capacity in the cavity 102i thereof comprised between about 100 to 200 litres. In particular, the first main walls, 108 and 110, may have a length comprised between 100 and 200 cm, a width comprised between 30 and 300 cm, and they can be separated from each other by a distance comprised between 5 and 30 cm. However, this selection shall not be deemed as limiting and the capacity/dimensions of the first platelike tank body 102 may be selected depending on the application.

[0032] In this condition, the heat exchange tank 100 advantageously provides for a shape that allows multiple options of orientation for the installation thereof. In particular, given that the first tank body 102 is plate-like shaped, the heat exchange tank 100 can be easily installed, in a concealed or substantially non-exposed manner, at a wall, a false ceiling, or in a room without altering the appearance or function thereof.

[0033] For example, the heat exchange tank 100 may be simply installed above a false ceiling, or in an attic, by arranging the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, parallel to the ceiling of the room. In particular, the plate-like shape of the first tank body 102 allows to easily identify suitable spaces in a compartment above a false ceiling, or in an attic.

[0034] Alternatively, the heat exchange tank 100 can be installed in a simple manner at an interspace in a side wall of the room by arranging the first pair of main walls 108 and 110 parallel thereto. Possibly, the heat exchange tank 100 may be installed on a side wall of the room which is provided with a surface recess, being substantially built-in and/or itself forming a portion of the side wall of the room.

[0035] Alternatively, the heat exchange tank 100 may be installed in a simple manner beneath a raised floor by arranging the first pair of main walls 108 and 110 parallel to the latter.

[0036] Possibly, two or more heat exchange tanks 100 which are connected to each other in series or in a parallel fashion, may be installed in a side wall of the room and/or in a compartment above a false ceiling.

[0037] Therefore, it is clear that the plate-like shape of the first tank body 102 allows a plurality of arrangements of the heat exchange tank 100 at a wall or in a room without altering the appearance or function thereof. Furthermore, at the same time, the plate-like shape of the first tank body 102 allows a vast range of possibilities of selection of the capacity for containing the fluids in the first cavity 102i and the second conduit 106, without altering the structure of the room in which the heat exchange tank 100 is installed. [0038] Possibly, the dimensions of the heat exchange tank 100 can be adapted depending on the dimensions of the wall of the room at which it is installed. For example, the dimensions of the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110 can be matched with those of the ceiling or side wall of the room so as to provide a very high capacity for containing fluids.

[0039] Particularly with reference to Fig.2 and Figs. 5 and 6 showing cross-sectional views taken along the lines A-A and B-B in Fig. 2, in the first cavity 102i the first tank body 102 comprises a first plurality of partitioning walls 114 provided with respective first openings 116.

[0040] The first plurality of partitioning walls 114 and the respective openings 116 are arranged so as to at least partially define a first conduit 118 fluidly connecting the first inlet 104i and the first outlet 104o of the first tank body 102. Preferably, the first conduit 118 guides the fluid from the first inlet 104i to the first outlet 104o following a unique path substantially without bifurcations.

[0041] In this embodiment, the openings 116 are each defined by three through holes formed on the respective partitioning walls 114. However, the shape, size and number of the openings 116 may be the most suitable for the specific needs.

[0042] In this preferred embodiment, the first conduit 118 forms a serpentine-like path fluidly connecting the first inlet 104i and the first outlet 104o of the first tank body 102 (see in Fig. 2 the thick dotted arrows which partially indicate the direction of the fluid in the first conduit 118). However, this conformation shall not be deemed as limiting and there can be provided for further embodiments in which the first conduit 118 at least partially forms further paths such as for example, a meander path, spiral path and the like, or combinations thereof.

[0043] The first plurality of partitioning walls 114 is adapted to mutually internally connect the first upper main wall 108 and the first lower main wall 110. In this condition, the structural stability of the first plate-like tank body 102 and of the heat exchange tank 100 is advantageously increased.

[0044] In particular, the first plurality of partitioning walls 114 prevents the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, from being deformed due to the weight and/or pressure of the fluids contained in the first cavity 102i and the second conduit 106. This characteristic is particularly advantageous when the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, has a relatively large extension to contain large amounts of fluids.

[0045] Therefore, the first plurality of partitioning walls 114 ensures a structural stability of the heat exchange tank 100 which, as a result, maintains a stable conformation in the various possible installation orientations at a wall or in a room, as mentioned previously. [0046] Furthermore, the first plurality of partitioning walls 114 is configured so that the first conduit 118 preferably extends substantially along the entire internal surface of at least one main wall of said first pair of main walls, 108 and 110.

[0047] In this condition, the fluid capacity in the first cavity 102i of the first tank body 102 is advantageously increased given that the first conduit 118 extends substantially corresponding to at least one main wall of said first pair of main walls, 108 and 110. Therefore, the overall dimension of the first tank body 102 is exploited to the maximum, obtaining a high containment capacity of the heat exchange tank 100.

[0048] Specifically, in the present embodiment, the first conduit 118 preferably extends along substantially the entire internal surface of both main walls of said first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, of the first tank body 102.

[0049] Furthermore, it should be observed that, the construction of the first conduit 118 advantageously prevents the presence of stagnant fluid regions in the first cavity 102i, or it prevents the presence of fluid flow inhomogeneities in the latter. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for obtaining an efficient heat exchange between the fluids and preventing the formation of leg ionella, when the first conduit 118 contains domestic water instead of technical water, as explained hereinafter.

[0050] It is clear that further embodiments of the heat exchange tank 100 provided with respect to what has been described so far are possible, without departing from the claimed scope of protection.

[0051] Described hereinafter are further preferred embodiments of the present invention which provide for modifications relating to some elements of the heat exchange tank 100. Therefore, the elements that are substantially unchanged will not be described again specifically and the same reference numerals will be used.

[0052] With reference to Figs. 7 to 11 , a heat exchange tank 100 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0053] Like in the first embodiment, the heat exchange tank 100 comprises a first tank body 102 which defines a first internal cavity 102i adapted to contain and transport a second conditioning fluid, preferably such as technical water, from a first inlet 104i to a first outlet 104o of said first tank body 102.

[0054] The first tank body 102 is plate-shaped, that is it has a plate-like shape, and it is provided with a first pair of main walls, such as a first upper main wall 108 and a first lower main wall 110, which are opposite and peripherally connected to each other by first edge walls 112. Both of the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, provide for larger extension surfaces which are continuous and which are, furthermore, larger than the larger extension surfaces of the first edge walls 112. Like in the first embodiment, the heat exchange tank 100 as a result advantageously provides for a shape that allows multiple options of orientation for the installation thereof.

[0055] In this embodiment, a second tank body 120 which defines a second internal cavity 120i is provided for in the first cavity 102i of the first tank body 102.

[0056] The second tank body 120 is also plate-like shaped and it is provided with a second pair of main walls, such as a second upper main wall 122 and a second lower main wall 124, which are opposite and peripherally connected to each other by second edge walls 126. Both of the second pair of main walls, 122 and 124, provide for larger extension surfaces which are continuous and which are, furthermore, larger than the larger extension surfaces of the second edge walls 126.

[0057] The second tank body 120 is arranged in the second cavity 102i of the first tank body so that the second pair of main walls, 122 and 124, thereof is substantially parallel to the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, of the first tank body 102 and, preferably, separated by the latter.

[0058] Like in the first embodiment, in the first cavity 102i the first tank body 102 comprises a first plurality of partitioning walls 114 provided with respective first openings 116.

[0059] The first plurality of partitioning walls 114 and the respective openings 116 are arranged so as to at least partially define a first conduit 118 fluidly connecting the first inlet 104i and the first outlet 104o of the first tank body 102. Preferably, like in the first embodiment, the first conduit 118 guides the fluid from the first inlet 104i to the first outlet 104o following a unique path substantially without bifurcations.

[0060] In particular, the first plurality of partitioning walls 114 is adapted to mutually internally connect the first pair of main walls 108 and 110 of the first tank body 102 through the walls of the second tank body 120, such as the second pair of main walls 122 and 124, and possibly the second edge walls 126.

[0061] In this condition, like in the first embodiment, the structural stability of the heat exchange tank 100 and of the first plate-like tank body 102 is advantageously increased. [0062] In this embodiment, the first conduit 118 extends on two distinct planes (see in particular Figs. 8 and 9), which are mutually separated by the second tank body 120 and fluidly connected by a connection conduit 118c. The connection conduit 118c is preferably arranged outside the first tank body 102 (in Figs. 7, 9 and 10, the connection conduit 118c is schematically represented by a thick dashed arrow). However, an embodiment in which the connection conduit 118c is arranged in the first tank body 102 may be provide for.

[0063] Furthermore, the openings 116 are each defined by grids formed on the respective partitioning walls 114. However, the shape, size and number of the openings 116 may be the most suitable for the specific needs.

[0064] In this preferred embodiment, the first conduit 118 forms - at each plane - a serpentine-like path fluidly connecting the first inlet 104i and the first outlet 104o of the first tank body 102 (see in Fig. 10 the thick dotted arrows which partially indicate the direction of the fluid in the first conduit 118). However, this conformation shall not be deemed as limiting and there can be provided for further embodiments in which the first conduit 118 at least partially forms further paths such as for example, a meander path, spiral path and the like, or combinations thereof.

[0065] Furthermore, the first plurality of partitioning walls 114 is configured so that the first conduit 118 preferably extends substantially along the entire internal surface of at least one main wall of said first pair of main walls, 108 and 110 of the first tank body.

[0066] Like in the case of the first embodiment, in this condition, the fluid capacity in the first cavity 102i of the first tank body 102 is advantageously increased given that the first conduit 118 extends substantially corresponding to at least one main wall of said first pair of main walls, 108 and 110. Therefore, the overall dimension of the first tank body 102 is exploited to the maximum, obtaining a high containment capacity of the heat exchange tank 100.

[0067] Specifically, in the present embodiment, the first conduit 118 forms, on each of the two planes, a serpentine-like path and it preferably extends along substantially the entire internal surface of both main walls of said first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, of the first tank body 102.

[0068] In this embodiment, in the second cavity 120i the second tank body 120 comprises a second plurality of partitioning walls 128 provided with respective second openings 130.

[0069] The second plurality of partitioning walls 128 and the respective second openings 130 are arranged so as to at least partially define, in the second tank body 120, a second conduit 106 adapted to contain and transport the first fluid, preferably such as domestic water, from a second inlet 106i to a second outlet 106o. In other words, unlike the first embodiment, the second conduit 106 is not a tube arranged in a coiled fashion in the first cavity 102i, but is a conduit defined in the second tank body 120 by means of the second plurality of partitioning walls 128 and the respective second openings 130. In particular, the second conduit 106 guides the fluid from the first inlet 106i to the first outlet 106o following a unique path substantially without bifurcations.

[0070] In this preferred embodiment, the second conduit 106 forms a serpentine-like path fluidly connecting the second inlet 106i and the second outlet 106o (see in Fig. 11 the thick dotted arrows which partially indicate the direction of the fluid in the second conduit 106). However, this conformation shall not be deemed as limiting and there can be provided for further embodiments in which the second conduit 106 at least partially forms further paths such as for example, a meander path, spiral path and the like, or combinations thereof.

[0071] The second plurality of partitioning walls 128 is adapted to mutually internally connect the second upper main wall 122 and the second lower main wall 124. In this condition, the structural stability of the second plate-like tank body 120 and of the heat exchange tank 100 is advantageously increased.

[0072] In particular, the second plurality of partitioning walls 128 prevents the second pair of main walls, 122 and 124, from being deformed due to the weight and/or pressure of the fluids contained in the second cavity 120i and the first cavity 102i. This characteristic is particularly advantageous when the second pair of main walls, 122 and 124, has a relatively large extension to contain large amounts of fluid.

[0073] Therefore, the second plurality of partitioning walls 128 further ensures a structural stability of the heat exchange tank 100 which, as a result, maintains a stable conformation in the various possible installation orientations at a wall or in a room, as mentioned previously.

[0074] Furthermore, the second plurality of partitioning walls 128 is configured so that the second conduit 106 preferably extends substantially along the entire internal surface of both main walls of said second pair of main walls, 122 and 124 of the second tank body 120.

[0075] In this condition, the fluid capacity in the second cavity 120i of the second tank body 120 is advantageously increased given that the second conduit 106 extends substantially corresponding to the second pair of main walls, 122 and 124. Therefore, the overall dimension of the second tank body 120 is exploited to the maximum, obtaining a high containment capacity of the heat exchange tank 100. In particular, with respect to the first embodiment, the second conduit 106 in the second embodiment further guarantees a high containment capacity of the first fluid in the heat exchange tank 100. [0076] With reference to Figs. 12 to 13, a heat exchange tank 100 according to a third preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0077] The heat exchange tank 100 in this third embodiment is substantially identical to that of the first embodiment except for some characteristics relating to the first conduit 118.

[0078] In particular, in this third embodiment, the first conduit 118 comprises a first portion 118’ and a second portion 118” consecutive to each other and adapted to contain and transport the second fluid, such as preferably technical water, from the first inlet 104i to the first outlet 104o of the first tank body 102 (see in Fig. 13 the thick arrows which partially indicate the direction of the fluid in the first conduit 118).

[0079] The first plurality of partitioning walls 114 is adapted to define said first portion 118’ in the first cavity 102i. While, the second portion 118” comprises a tube arranged inside said first cavity 102i and at least partially intersecting the first portion 118’ of the first conduit 118.

[0080] In this condition, it is advantageously easy to select the relative positions of the first inlet 104i and of the first outlet 104o of the first tank body 102 so as to simplify the designing of the heat exchange tank 100 for the installation thereof on a pre-existing circuit for supplying the second fluid, such as preferably technical water.

[0081] In particular, this condition allows to make maximum use of the overall dimensions of the first tank body 102, obtaining a high capacity for containing the heat exchange tank 100 and, at the same time, to appropriately select the relative positions of the first inlet 104i and of the first outlet 104o.

[0082] With reference to Figs. 14 and 15, a heat exchange tank 100 according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0083] In this fourth embodiment, the heat exchange tank 100 is substantially identical to that of the second embodiment except for some characteristics relating to the second conduit 106.

[0084] In particular, in this fourth embodiment the second conduit 106 comprises a first portion 106’ and a second portion 106” consecutive to each other and adapted to contain and transport the first fluid, such as preferably domestic water, from a second inlet 106i to a second outlet 106o of the second conduit 106 (the second inlet 106i is not visible in the figures).

[0085] The second plurality of partitioning walls 128 is adapted to define, in the second cavity 120i, said first portion 106’ of the second conduit 106. While, the second portion 106” of the second conduit 106 comprises a tube arranged in the first cavity 102i of the first tank body 102 and outside the second tank body 120.

[0086] In this condition, it is advantageously increased the surface adapted to provide the heat exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid which flow, respectively, inside and outside the second conduit 106. In particular, the second portion 106” of the second conduit 106 adds surface for the heat exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid with respect to only the first portion 106’ defined in the second tank body 120.

[0087] In a more preferred embodiment, the second portion 106” of the second conduit 106 is at least partially contained in the first conduit 118 extending following the tortuosity of the latter.

[0088] In this condition, it is advantageously further increased the surface adapted to obtain the heat exchange between the first fluid and the second fluid, and the containment capacity of the fluid of the second conduit 106 is increased.

[0089] With reference to Figs. 16 and 17, a heat exchange tank 100 according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0090] In this fifth embodiment, the heat exchange tank 100 is substantially identical to that of the second embodiment except for the fact that a further tank body in turn containing the second tank body 120 is provided for in the first tank body 102.

[0091] In particular, in this fifth embodiment, the first tank body 102 comprises, in the first cavity 102i, at least one further tank body 132 which defines a respective further internal cavity 132i adapted to contain and transport a further fluid or material from a further inlet 134i to a further outlet 134o of said further tank body 132.

[0092] In this embodiment, the further fluid or material is supplied to the heat exchange tank 100, through the further inlet 134i and the further outlet 134o of the further tank body 132, by means of a heat generation unit or other supply system through a respective circuit, according to configurations known in the state of the art (not shown in the figures). The further fluid or material may be a further thermal conditioning fluid, such as technical water, or domestic water, or a phase-change material (PCM) which serves as a latent heat accumulator.

[0093] The further tank body 132 is plate-like shaped and it is provided with a further pair of main walls, such as a further upper main wall 136 and a further lower main wall 138, which are opposite and peripherally connected to each other by further edge walls 140. Both of the further pair of main walls, 136 and 138, provide for larger extension surfaces which are continuous and which are, furthermore, larger than the larger extension surfaces of the further edge walls 140.

[0094] Specifically, in the further cavity 132i of the further tank body 132 there is at least partially arranged the second conduit 106 which, in this embodiment, is preferably defined in the second tank body 120 and it substantially has the same characteristics described in the second embodiment.

[0095] The second conduit 106 and the further tank body 132 are configured so as to provide a heat exchange between the first fluid, which flows in the second conduit 106, and the second fluid, which flows in the first conduit 118, through said further fluid or material, which flows in the further tank body 132.

[0096] Advantageously, in this condition, the use of a further fluid or material allows to increase the heat exchange efficiency between the first fluid and the second fluid, when the further tank body 132 contains a material such as PCM, or it increases the versatility of the heat exchange tank 100. In the latter case, an embodiment in which the second conduit 106 may be provide for and the further tank body 132 are adapted to contain and transport respectively the first fluid and the further fluid, such as domestic water of two different appliances, while the first conduit 118 is adapted to contain and transport the second fluid, such as technical water, for conditioning the other two fluids.

[0097] In this embodiment, the further tank body 132 comprises, in the further cavity 132i, a further plurality of partitioning walls 142 provided with respective further openings 144.

[0098] The further plurality of partitioning walls 142 and the respective further openings 144 are arranged so as to at least partially define, in the further tank body 132, a further conduit 146 adapted to contain and transport the further fluid or material from the further inlet 134i to the further outlet 134o.

[0099] The further plurality of partitioning walls 142 is adapted to mutually internally connect the further upper main wall 136 and the further lower main wall 138 through the walls of the second tank body 120, such as the second pair of main walls, 122 and 124, and possibly the second edge walls 126. In this manner, as previously mentioned, the structural stability of the further plate-like tank body 132 and of the heat exchange tank 100 is increased.

[0100] The further conduit 146 substantially provides for the same characteristics as described in the second embodiment relatively to the first conduit 118 and the second conduit 106, such as the shape characteristics of the coiled path, meander path, spiral path and the like, or combinations thereof.

[0101] Furthermore, the first plurality of partitioning walls 142 is configured so that the further conduit 146 preferably extends substantially along the entire internal surface of at least one main wall of said further pair of main walls, 136 and 138.

[0102] With reference Fig. 18, a heat exchange tank 100 according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0103] In this sixth embodiment, the heat exchange tank 100 is substantially identical to any of the previous embodiments except for the fact that the first tank body 102 externally provides for a different structure (the figure does not show the second inlet 106i and the second outlet 106o of the second conduit 106).

[0104] In particular, in this sixth embodiment, the first tank body 102 comprises a plurality of rib walls 148 formed externally to the first upper main wall 108, to the first lower main wall 110 and, possibly, to the first edge walls 112.

[0105] In this condition, the structural stability of the first plate-like tank body 102 and of the second heat exchange tank 100 is advantageously further increased. Possibly, a phase-change material (PCM) which serves as a latent heat accumulator may be arranged outside the first tank body 102 between the rib walls 148. In this manner, the thermal capacity of the fluid contained in the tank is added to the thermal capacity given by the melting of the PCM (which is selected with a suitable melting point), thus allowing to have a greater accumulation without increasing the size. This will be particularly useful in the presence of significant drawing of water or in the presence of strategies for the exploitation of self-produced electricity (self-consumption). As a matter fact, in this last case replenishing may be carried out when there is overproduction of self-produced electricity (for example during the day, in the case of a photovoltaic system), then leaving the installations switched off when production ceases.

[0106] It is clear that with respect to what has been described so far, further embodiments of the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention are possible, without departing from the claimed scope of protection.

[0107] For example, considering all the embodiments described above, there may be provide for a heat exchange tank 100 which comprises a thermally insulating panel coupled to at least one main wall of said first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, and/or at least one of the edge walls 112 of the first tank body 102.

[0108] In this condition, the heat exchange tank 100 is advantageously thermally insulated with respect to the external and, therefore, thus allowing to prevent a dispersion of the heat from the fluid contained in the first cavity 102i of the first tank body 102. As a result, this allows to prevent heat dispersion, hence reducing the heat exchange efficiency between the technical water and the domestic water.

[0109] This characteristic is particularly advantageous in the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention given that the relatively large extension of the first pair of main walls, 108 and 110, would tend to facilitate heat dispersion. Furthermore, advantageously, the thermally insulating panel prevents undesired heat transmission from the heat exchange tank 100 toward the room in which it is installed.

[0110] In the most preferred embodiment, the thermally insulating panel is preferably a vacuum insulating panel (VIP). Vacuum insulating panels (VIPs) have high insulating characteristics obtained by removing air from the internal of the panels. Generally, vacuum insulating panels are panels based on one or more powdered minerals, such as for example microporous silicic acid, which is pressed and inserted into a casing, for example made of aluminium, kept under vacuum. In this manner, the panels are deprived of the air inside them until a very low pressure is obtained, thus reducing the mobility of the few air molecules contained in the pores to the minimum, hence inducing a high decrease in the transmission of energy by thermal conduction, irradiation and convection. Specifically, the insulating capacity of a vacuum insulating panel (VIP) is typically 10 times higher than that of other types of insulating materials and, therefore, it advantageously allows to use reduced thicknesses so as to substantially avoid increasing the overall dimensions of the heat exchange tank 100. It should be observed that the plate-like shape of the heat exchange tank 100, that is, the shape of the first pair of main walls 108 and 110, allows to use a vacuum insulating panel (VIP) avoiding a thermal bridge.

[0111] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the first tank body 102 contains and transports the second fluid, such as for example technical water, in the first cavity 102, while the second conduit 106 contains and transports the first fluid, such as domestic water. However, there may be provide for further embodiments in which the tank body 102 contains and transports the first fluid, such as for example domestic water, in the first cavity 102, while the second conduit 106 contains and transports the second fluid, such as technical water.

[0112] It should be observed that, the constructions of the first conduit 118 and of the second conduit 106 advantageously prevent the presence of stagnant fluid regions, or that there be inhomogeneities in the flow of the fluids. This characteristic is particularly advantageous for obtaining an efficient heat exchange between the fluids and for preventing the formation of legionella in the conduit which contains and transports domestic water.

[0113] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, in which it is provided for that at least one portion of the first conduit 118 or of the second conduit 106 consists of a tube, said tube portion may provide for any cross-sectional shape and, possibly, a corrugated surface to increase the heat exchange characteristics between the fluids.

[0114] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the first conduit 118 extends on two distinct planes (see in particular Figs. 8 and 9), which are mutually separated by the second tank body 120 and fluidly connected by a connection conduit 118c. However, there may be provide for an embodiment in which the first conduit 118 extends on a single plane and in which the first lower main wall 110 of the first tank body 102 further forms the second lower main wall 124 of the second tank body 120. Therefore, in this embodiment the heat exchange between the fluids would occur only through the second upper main wall 122 of the second tank body 120.

[0115] It is clear that, alternatively, there may be provide for embodiments in which the first conduit 118 and/or the second conduit 106 each extend on a plurality of planes. For example, there may be provided for an embodiment similar to the one described in the second embodiment in which the second conduit 106 extends on two planes in the second tank body 120.

[0116] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the first 116 and second 130 openings of the plurality of partitioning walls, first 114 and second 128, are holes or grids formed on the latter. However, there may be provided for embodiments in which said openings consist of interruptions of the respective partitioning walls.

[0117] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the first upper main wall 108 and the first lower main wall 110 consist of planar sheets. However, this embodiment shall not be deemed as limiting and the first upper main wall 108 and the first lower main wall 110 may consist of corrugated, knurled, undulated, zigzag sheets or the like, so as to further increase the structural stability of the first plate-like tank body 102 and of the heat exchange tank 100.

[0118] Lastly, there may be provided for further embodiments which mutually combine individual characteristics of the previously described embodiments, such as for example a combination of the characteristics of the first or fourth embodiment with those of the fifth embodiment.

[0119] In the light of the above, it is clear that significant results have been achieved, overcoming the drawbacks of the state of the art, allowing to provide a heat exchange tank 100 which provides for a high fluid containment capacity, while at the same time ensuring easy installation at a wall or within a space, such as a room, without altering the appearance or function thereof.

[0120] Furthermore, the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention provides for a stable structure which can be easily installed, in a concealed or substantially non-exposed manner, at a wall or within a space, such as a room, allowing multiple possible orientations.

[0121] Furthermore, the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention provides for a structural stability induced by the plurality of partitioning walls, first 114 and second 128, which, otherwise, would be jeopardised by the weight of the fluids contained therein or the pressure thereof. In particular, a fluid pressure is exerted, for example, by the heat generation unit and it can reach high values in tanks having a sealed circuit (sealed compartment tank).

[0122] Furthermore, the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention provides for a fluid, first and second, containment capacity which can be easily adjusted at the design stage.

[0123] Furthermore, the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention provides for an efficient heat exchange between the fluids so as to reduce energy waste. [0124] Furthermore, the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention can be installed in the same room of use in proximity of the appliance, advantageously avoiding a recirculation system and reducing heat dispersion due to long tubes for connection with the appliance, with ensuing energy saving.

[0125] Lastly, the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention provides for a simple construction and reliability of operation in the civil, industrial, chemical, transport industries or the like.

[0126] Obviously, the materials, forming techniques and equipment used to manufacture the heat exchange tank 100 according to the present invention, as well as the shapes and dimensions of the individual components, may be the most suitable depending on the specific needs.

Claims

CLAIMS Heat exchange tank (100) for storage and thermal conditioning of a first fluid by means of a second conditioning fluid, said heat exchange tank (100) comprising a first tank body (102) which defines a first internal cavity (102i) adapted to contain and transport one of said first fluid and said second fluid from a first inlet (104i) to a first outlet (104o) of said first tank body (102), inside said first cavity (102i) of said first tank body (102) being at least partially arranged a second conduit (106) adapted to contain and transport the other of said first fluid and said second fluid from a second inlet (106i) to a second outlet (106o) of said second conduit (106), said second conduit (106) being configured so as to keep said first fluid and said second fluid separate from each other and to provide a heat exchange between them, characterised in that said first tank body (102) has a plate-like shape and it is provided with a first pair of opposite main walls (108, 110) having continuous surfaces and peripherally connected to each other by first edge walls (1 12), said surfaces of said first pair of main walls (108, 1 10) being larger than the surfaces of said first edge walls (1 12). The heat exchange tank (100) according to claim 1 , wherein inside said first cavity (102i) said first tank body (102) comprises a first plurality of partitioning walls (1 14) provided with or forming respective first openings (1 16) so as to at least partially define a first conduit (1 18) fluidly connecting said first inlet (104i) and said first outlet (104o) of said first tank body (102), wherein said first plurality of partitioning walls (1 14) is adapted to internally connect said first pair of main walls (108, 1 10) to each other, and said first conduit (1 18) extending along the entire internal surface of at least one main wall (108, 1 10) of said first pair of main walls (108, 1 10). The heat exchange tank (100) according to claim 2, wherein said first conduit (1 18) extends along the entire internal surface of both main walls (108, 1 10) of said first pair of main walls (108, 1 10). The heat exchange tank (100) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein said first conduit (1 18) comprises a first portion (118’) and a second portion (1 18”) consecutive to each other, said first plurality of partitioning walls (1 14) being adapted to define inside said first cavity (102i) said first portion (1 18’) of said first conduit (118), and said second portion (118”) of said first conduit (1 18) comprising a tube arranged inside said first cavity (102i) of said first tank body (102) and at least partially intersecting said first portion (1 18’) of said first conduit (118). The heat exchange tank (100) according to any of claims 2 to 4, wherein inside said first cavity (102i) of said first tank body (102) there is provided for a second tank body (120) which defines a second internal cavity (120i), said second tank body (120) having a plate-like shape and being provided with a second pair of opposite main walls (122, 124) having continuous surfaces and peripherally connected to each other by second edge walls (126), said surfaces of said second pair of main walls (122, 124) being larger than the surfaces of said second edge walls (126), said first plurality of partitioning walls (114) of said first tank body (102) being adapted to internally connect said first pair of main walls (108, 110) to each other through the walls (122, 124, 126) of said second tank body (120), wherein inside said second cavity (120i) said second tank body (120) comprises a second plurality of partitioning walls (128) provided with or forming respective second openings (130) so as to at least partially define said second conduit (106), said second plurality of partitioning walls (128) being adapted to internally connect said second pair of main walls (122, 124) to each other, and said second conduit (106) extending along the entire internal surface of both main walls (122, 124) of said second pair of main walls (122, 124). The heat exchange tank (100) according to claim 5, wherein said second conduit (106) comprises a first portion (106’) and a second portion (106”) consecutive to each other, said second plurality of partitioning walls (128) being adapted to define inside said second cavity (120i) said first portion (106’) of said second conduit (106), and said second portion (106”) of said second conduit (106) comprising a tube arranged inside said first cavity (102i) of said first tank body (102) and outside said second tank body (120). The heat exchange tank (100) according to claim 6, wherein said second portion (106”) of said second conduit (106) is at least partially contained in said first conduit (118) so as to extend following the tortuosity of the latter. The heat exchange tank (100) according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein inside said first cavity (102i) said first tank body (102) comprises at least a further tank body (132) which defines a respective further internal cavity (132i) adapted to contain and transport a further fluid or material from a further inlet (134i) to a further outlet (134o) of said further tank body (132), said at least one further tank body (132) having a plate-like shape and being provided with a further pair of opposite main walls (136, 138) having continuous surfaces and peripherally connected to each other by further edge walls (140), said surfaces of said further pair of main walls (136, 138) being larger than the surfaces of said further edge walls (140), inside said further cavity (132i) of said further tank body (132) being at least partially arranged said second conduit (106), said second conduit (106) and said at least one further tank body (132) being configured so as to provide a heat exchange between said first fluid and said second fluid through said further fluid or material. The heat exchange tank (100) according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein a thermally insulating panel is coupled to at least one main wall (108, 110) of said first pair of main walls (108, 1 10) and/or to at least one of said first edge walls (1 12) of said first tank body (102). The heat exchange tank (100) according to any of claims 1 to 9, wherein said first fluid is domestic water and said second conditioning fluid is technical heating water, and said heat exchange tank (100) is a boiler for use in the building industry.