Abstract: The present invention features geothermal systems that use of a well field open loop scheme by interconnecting the well field through a system of mains and controlled branches, the latter composed of multiple (2-5) wells. The proposed design lends itself to the use of modular well field kits that minimize installation cost, insures equal return water distribution to the active wells, creates standardization and insures best practices. The benefits of individual branch control include the ability to serve the building load in staged delivery, thereby minimizing well field parasitic load, and maximizing the time available for well field thermal relaxation and availability.

Abstract: The present invention features ground water heat transfer systems utilizing polypipes. A typical system of the invention comprises (1) a water pump which is suspended or affixed in a deep well and connected to at least one inlet polypipe, where the inlet polypipe(s) is extended to the bottom of the well and comprises a bottom portion including one or more openings; (2) a heat exchange system connected to the water pump; and (3) a return pipe connected to the heat transfer system and having an outlet extending below the water level in the well. The opening(s) at or near the bottom of the inlet polypipe(s) allow water to enter the polypipe(s) and be pumped to the heat exchange system. After heat exchange, the water can be returned to the same well or different well(s) through the return pipe(s). In many cases, the systems of the invention are open-loop systems.

Abstract: The present invention features geothermal systems with improved control strategies for efficient operation of multiple geothermal wells. In many embodiments, each well in a geothermal system of the present invention is operated in cycles. Each cycle includes a heat exchange phase followed by a thermal recovery phase. During a heat exchange phase, the well is engaged in exchanging heat with a heat pump. During a thermal recovery phase, the well is kept inactive for establishing thermal equilibrium with the earth. On many occasions, the geothermal system simultaneously operates a group of wells in a heat exchange phase to serve the building HVAC load, while maintaining other wells inactive for thermal recovery. The switching between different operational stages is regulated for each well to improve the overall performance of the system while satisfying the building demand.

Abstract: The present invention features geothermal systems with improved control strategies for efficient operation of multiple geothermal wells. In many embodiments, each well in a geothermal system of the present invention is operated in cycles. Each cycle includes a heat exchange phase followed by a thermal recovery phase. During a heat exchange phase, the well is engaged in exchanging heat with a heat pump. During a thermal recovery phase, the well is kept inactive for establishing thermal equilibrium with the earth. On many occasions, the geothermal system simultaneously operates a group of wells in a heat exchange phase to serve the building HVAC load, while maintaining other wells inactive for thermal recovery. The switching between different operational stages is regulated for each well to improve the overall performance of the system while satisfying the building demand.

Abstract: A separator for use in an advanced rechargeable electrochemical battery cell includes a thin plate of beta" alumina affixed to a molded monolithic frame shaped similar to a window frame. The strength and support provided by the frame permits use of extremely thin beta" alumina plates. When used in a sodium sulfur or sodium metal chloride battery cell, the separator permits maximum cell power without a decrease in cell energy capacity. A battery prepared by stacking a plurality of such cells is light and compact, yet has sufficient power and capacity for use in an electric vehicle.

Abstract: A tubular assembly for transferring fluids in relative isolation from the ambient environment is disclosed. The assembly includes at least two similar conduit sections. Each conduit section has contoured ends which may be frusto-conical in shape. Means for joining the two conduit sections end-to-end are provided which position conforming contoured ends in mutually confronting, spaced relationship. In one embodiment, the assembly and the interspace formed by the space, conforming surfaces are oriented such that the condensate of the fluid flowing through the assembly is trapped in the interspace thereby forming a thermal barrier between the fluid flowing through the assembly and the ambient environment.