Technical Summary
The IMBY system is the integration of our microturbine generator and heat pump. The microturbine and heat pump are connected together by our heat transfer system. The microturbine, heat pump and heat transfer system are integrated with, and buffered by, our heat storage system and an electric battery. Power electronics convert and manage the electricity. Control electronics coordinate and optimize all energy functions. These technologies are integrated into one intelligent, highly efficient, cost-effective system.
We are developing a 5-kWe closed-loop microturbine that is efficient, quiet, and provides a 20-year life with little maintenance. The microturbine is fuel flexible, meaning it can be powered by a range of fuels like natural gas, oil, and biofuels. Since it generates all of a building’s electricity, buildings can operate independently from the grid.
Our multi-stage vapor compression heat pump is optimized for a natural and environmentally friendly refrigerant, and will operate efficiently in cold-climates. It’s electrically driven, so it can be powered by our microturbine, a roof-top solar array, or electricity from the grid.
The heat transfer system is an IMBY innovation that moves heat energy to and from different subsystems and the building.
Power and control electronics coordinate all the separate subsystems. Finally, we will have an intelligent building energy appliance that will anticipate, rather than simply react to, energy needs. Internal and external data sources—like energy consumption patterns, real-time and forecasted weather data, and energy prices—will allow the IMBY system to meet the building’s electricity and comfort requirements while also meeting efficiency, cost, and other goals.
The inside unit is an IMBY innovation and eliminates the need for a traditional water heater. Using our advanced polymer heat exchangers and sensors, it will provide the building with hot water and be used for heat storage. It can be charged whenever advantageous and rapidly discharged for large demand surges like simultaneous showers.
