HEATING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USING THE LATTER

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention concerns a low-emission heating apparatus that uses the well-known process of pyrolysis, also called cracking, or gasification, of a biomass, for example pellets or other materials derived from wood, to produce heat. The heating apparatus can be applied in the field of heating spaces, for example domestic or industrial, of public premises, or ones open to the public, but also in the field of boilers to produce domestic water and/or to be used in heating systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Heating apparatuses are known, commonly called stoves, which use biomass in an inconsistent form for fuel, for example formed by chips, pellets or suchlike, in which combustion occurs thanks to the presence of a comburent, usually consisting of the oxygen contained in the ambient air, which is supplied as primary and secondary air. The primary air is made to enter a brazier to fuel the combustion of the biomass after the latter has first been ignited.

[0003] When operating normally, pyrolysis occurs during combustion, that is, the physical and chemical decomposition process of the combustible biomass, caused by it being heated to temperatures between about 300°C and about 600°C.

[0004] As is known, pyrolysis decomposes biomass into two parts: one gaseous and one solid. The gaseous part consists of a flammable mixture of gases, such as mainly carbon monoxide, hydrogen and methane, and a condensable compound, known to persons of skill in the art by the acronym TAR, while the solid part substantially consists of coal, known also by the term CHAR.

[0005] The mixture of gases derived from pyrolysis, which in this field is called "syngas", is ignited by ignition, and with the introduction of secondary air completes the combustion of the biomass, generating heat and a flame.

[0006] Known stoves, which are based on the pyrolysis process, have a brazier in which the biomass can be loaded, which can then be ignited. Primary air can be introduced into the brazier to create a so-called "flame cap" above the biomass.

[0007] When the stove is working, the heat of the combustion descends into the brazier in proximity to the still non-combusted biomass and causes the pyrolysis thereof. Then, to complete the combustion, secondary air is introduced into the brazier which ignites the combustible gases resulting from pyrolysis.

[0008] However, these known stoves have a series of disadvantages such as, for example, poor performance, poor versatility of use, difficult management of the power and speed of production of the combustible gases and discontinuous operation.

[0009] In fact, the combustion process occurs until the loaded biomass is completely consumed by the pyrolysis process. When this process ends, because the biomass is finished, it is necessary to reload more biomass into the brazier and then restart the process by means of a new ignition. It is therefore quite clear that these operations require the intervention of an operator.

[0010] In addition, the introduction into the brazier of ambient air, having an oxygen component of approximately 23.3% by weight, contributes to a high production of polluting gases. In fact, biomass also includes nitrogen, generally bound with the carbon and hydrogen atoms present in it, and which, as is known, binds with the oxygen of the ambient air introduced into the brazier, producing nitrogen oxides which are very polluting.

[0011] Document DE 3718022 C1 is also known, which describes a biomass-fueled boiler, which comprises a brazier to contain the biomass, having a plurality of lateral entry apertures through which a mixture of air and fumes enters to trigger the pyrolysis of the biomass. Moreover, the brazier also comprises an exit aperture from which the combustible gases produced by the pyrolysis of the biomass exit. In correspondence with the exit aperture there are also air injection apertures to trigger the combustion of the combustible gases in a combustion chamber disposed directly downstream of the exit aperture of the brazier. The boiler also comprises a conduit that connects the combustion chamber disposed directly downstream of the exit aperture of the brazier to a post-combustion chamber comprising another air injection aperture to trigger the post-combustion of the fumes deriving from the first combustion, which took place in the combustion chamber disposed directly downstream of the exit aperture of the brazier.

[0012] Furthermore, in the boiler described in document DE 3718022 C1, the pyrolysis of the biomass is triggered by a mixture of air and fumes the oxygen content of which also induces the production of nitrogen oxides, which are very polluting. In fact, for this reason, the fumes from the combustion of the combustible gases produced by the pyrolysis of the biomass are conveyed to the post-combustion chamber to trigger a second combustion with the purpose of reducing the nitrogen oxides.

[0013] Lastly, the boiler described in document DE 3718022 C1 is fed in batches, that is, before inserting a new biomass into the brazier it is necessary to terminate the decomposition of the biomass already present inside and then to empty it, so it is particularly difficult to control and regulate the combustion.

[0014] The documents US 4 438 756 A and WO 2014/064300 A1 show other related heating apparatuses.

[0015] There is therefore a need to provide a new and original heating apparatus that can overcome at least one, better all, the disadvantages of the state of the art.

[0016] One purpose of the present invention is to provide a heating apparatus that produces reduced pollutant emissions into the environment.

[0017] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a heating apparatus that allows to regulate both the production speed of the combustible gases and also the calorific power generated.

[0018] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a heating apparatus which also allows to obtain a continuous operation, that is, without interruptions and which, moreover, can be easily automated at least to allow automatic start up and switch off.

[0019] The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims.

[0021] The dependent claims describe other characteristics of the present invention.

[0022] In accordance with the above purposes, a heating apparatus which overcomes the limits of the state of the art and eliminates the defects present therein, comprises: thermochemical decomposition means configured to receive a biomass which functions as fuel and a first comburent and suitable to thermochemically decompose the biomass and produce at least one combustible gas, and a combustion chamber configured to receive both a second comburent and also the at least one combustible gas and suitable to develop heat by means of a flame, fed by the at least one combustible gas and which produces fumes.

[0023] According to the present invention, the heating apparatus also comprises both conveyor means interposed between the thermochemical decomposition means and the combustion chamber to convey the combustible gas to the combustion chamber, and also recirculation means to convey at least a first part of the fumes from the combustion chamber to the thermochemical decomposition means.

[0024] The first part of the fumes constitutes the first comburent.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heating apparatus also comprises heat exchange means associated with the recirculation means and configured to heat the second comburent using the heat contained in the first comburent before the second comburent reaches the combustion chamber.

[0026] According to the present invention, the thermochemical decomposition means comprise a brazier substantially closed with respect to the external environment and comprising a first entry aperture for the biomass to enter, a second entry aperture for the first comburent to enter and an exit aperture for the combustible gas to exit.

[0027] The combustion chamber also comprises an entry aperture to receive the second comburent from the external environment and the combustible gas and, according to the present invention, the conveyor means comprise at least one conveyor compartment interposed between the exit aperture of the brazier and the entry aperture of the combustion chamber.

[0028] According to another aspect of the present invention, the recirculation means comprise at least one recirculation aperture made on the combustion chamber and at least one recirculation conduit communicating with the recirculation aperture and also with the second entry aperture of the brazier.

[0029] According to another aspect of the present invention, the combustion chamber also comprises at least one evacuation aperture communicating with a respective evacuation pipe, to evacuate a second part of the fumes into the external environment.

[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, the heating apparatus also comprises a first fan disposed downstream of the at least one recirculation aperture and upstream of the second aperture of the brazier and configured to draw the first comburent from the combustion chamber and introduce it into the brazier. The heating apparatus also comprises a second fan disposed downstream of the evacuation aperture and configured to draw the second part of the fumes from the combustion chamber.

[0031] According to another aspect of the present invention, a heating method using the heating apparatus according to the invention comprises the following steps:

• providing the brazier and introducing the biomass into the brazier;
• providing the combustion chamber and drawing the first comburent from the combustion chamber;
• introducing the first comburent into the brazier in order to thermochemically decompose the biomass and produce the combustible gas;
• conveying the combustible gas into the combustion chamber.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method also provides to draw the second comburent from the external environment and convey the latter into the combustion chamber in order to ignite the combustible gases, developing heat and fumes, and to draw at least a second part of the fumes from the combustion chamber and evacuate the second part of the fumes into the external environment.

[0033] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method also provides to heat the second comburent by means of an exchange of heat between the latter and the first comburent before the second comburent enters the combustion chamber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments, given as a non-restrictive example with reference to the attached drawings wherein:

• fig. 1 is a schematic block representation of a heating apparatus according to the present invention in accordance with a first embodiment;
• fig. 2 is a schematic block representation of a heating apparatus according to the present invention in accordance with a second embodiment;
• fig. 3 is a schematic block representation of a heating apparatus according to the present invention in accordance with a third embodiment;
• fig. 4 is a schematic block representation of a heating apparatus according to the present invention in accordance with a fourth embodiment;
• fig. 5 is a schematic block representation of a heating apparatus according to the present invention in accordance with a variant of the third embodiment;
• fig. 6 is a schematic block representation of a heating apparatus according to the present invention in accordance with a variant of the fourth embodiment;
• fig. 7 is a section lateral view of the heating apparatus of fig. 1;
• fig. 8 is a section along the line VIII-VIII of fig. 7;
• fig. 9 is a three-dimensional view of the heating apparatus of fig. 1, taken from the rear;
• fig. 10 is a three-dimensional view similar to that of fig. 9, but partly exploded;
• fig. 11 is a block electrical diagram of a control circuit of the heating apparatus of fig. 1.

[0035] We must clarify that in the present description and in the claims the term vertical, with its declinations, has the sole function of better illustrating the present invention with reference to the drawings and must not be in any way used to limit the scope of the present invention itself, or the field of protection defined by the attached claims. For example, by the term vertical we mean an axis or a plane that can be either perpendicular to the line of the horizon, or inclined, even by several degrees, for example up to 20°, with respect to the latter.

[0036] Furthermore, the people of skill in the art will recognize that certain sizes or characteristics in the drawings may have been enlarged, deformed, or shown in an unconventional or non-proportional way in order to provide a version of the present invention that is easier to understand. When sizes and/or values are specified in the following description, the sizes and/or values are provided for illustrative purposes only and must not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention, unless such sizes and/or values are present in the attached claims.

[0037] To facilitate comprehension, the same reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the drawings. It is understood that elements and characteristics of one embodiment can be conveniently combined or incorporated into other embodiments without further clarifications.

DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0038] With reference to fig. 1, a heating apparatus 10 according to the present invention is of the pyrolysis type and, in accordance with a first embodiment, comprises thermochemical decomposition means M1 configured to receive a biomass C which functions as fuel and a first comburent F1, as will be explained below.

[0039] The thermochemical decomposition means M1 are suitable to thermally decompose the biomass C and produce, by means of pyrolysis, combustible gases S, for example consisting mainly of methane, hydrogen, carbon monoxide.

[0040] The heating apparatus 10 also comprises a combustion chamber 20 configured to receive both a second comburent A, different from the first comburent F1, and also the combustible gases S. The combustion chamber 20 is suitable to develop heat by means of a flame, fed by the combustible gases S and which produces fumes F, as will be explained below.

[0041] Furthermore, the heating apparatus 10, in accordance with the present invention, comprises both conveyor means M2 interposed between the thermochemical decomposition means M1 and the combustion chamber 20 to convey the combustible gases S toward the latter, and also recirculation means M3 to convey at least a first part F1 of the fumes F, which constitutes the first comburent, from the combustion chamber 20 to the thermochemical decomposition means M1.

[0042] Furthermore, the heating apparatus 10 comprises heat exchange means M4, associated with the recirculation means M3 and configured to heat the second comburent A, using the heat contained in the first comburent F1 before the second comburent A reaches the combustion chamber.

[0043] Hereafter, with reference to figs. 1 and from 7 to 11, the first embodiment of the heating apparatus 10 is described in more detail.

[0044] The thermochemical decomposition means M1 comprise a brazier 11 substantially closed with respect to the external environment and delimited by four lateral walls 12 and one upper wall 13. Furthermore, the brazier 11 is delimited at the bottom by a metal plate 14 provided with at least one exit aperture 15.

[0045] The exit aperture 15 of the brazier 11 is also configured to allow the combustible gases S to exit and the burnt and/or thermochemically decomposed biomass C to be discharged from the brazier 11.

[0046] The metal plate 14 can be selectively removable or openable, in any known way, to allow access to the brazier 11 from below, for example to carry out maintenance or cleaning thereof.

[0047] Furthermore, the brazier 11 has an entry aperture 16 for the biomass C to be introduced, comprising, for example, inconsistent wooden material such as chips, pellets or suchlike, and an entry aperture 18 from which the first comburent F1, which is of the aeriform type, can enter.

[0048] It should also be noted that according to the invention the brazier 11 does not have any apertures that allow the comburent air to enter directly from the external environment.

[0049] The entry apertures 16 and 18 of the brazier 11 are preferably disposed in the upper part of the latter, that is, at a higher level than the one at which the exit aperture 15 is located. This configuration allows to introduce the biomass C and the first comburent F1 from the top downward.

[0050] It should be noted that the reciprocal position of the first aperture 16 and of the second aperture 18 may vary compared to that shown in the drawings, so that, for example, one or both can be disposed laterally, or one at a different level from the other.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, not shown in the drawings, the first aperture 16 of the brazier 11 can be disposed substantially level with the lower part thereof. In this configuration, the biomass C can be introduced into the brazier 11 from the bottom upward, or, alternatively, laterally, that is, in a substantially horizontal way. For example, the first aperture 16 can be disposed substantially level with the metal plate 14, in order to introduce the biomass C directly above the latter.

[0052] Furthermore, inside the brazier 11 there is an ignition device 19, configured to selectively trigger the combustion of the biomass C, for example when the heating apparatus 10 is switched on.

[0053] In the embodiment shown here, the ignition device 19 comprises an electrical resistance disposed in a lower zone of a lateral wall 12, that is, close to the metal plate 14, for example in the same lateral wall 12 in which the first entry aperture 16 is made.

[0054] The ignition device 19 can be sized so as to come into contact, during use, with the biomass C present in the brazier 11. Alternatively, the ignition device 19 can be configured to ignite the biomass C indirectly, that is, by heating the air in contact with the latter.

[0055] The combustion chamber 20 is substantially closed and is in fluidic communication with the brazier 11 by means of a conveyor compartment 21, which is preferably hermetically sealed. The conveyor compartment 21 is interposed between the lower part of the brazier 11 and the lower part of the combustion chamber 20.

[0056] We must clarify that, according to the invention, the combustible gas S exiting the exit aperture 15 of the brazier 11 flows directly into the conveyor means M2. The combustible gas S exiting the exit aperture 15 of the brazier 11 flows directly into the conveyor compartment 21, which defines the conveyor means M2.

[0057] We must also clarify that, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the brazier 11 and the combustion chamber 20 are autonomous, separated from each other and connected in a fluidic way by means of the conveyor compartment 21.

[0058] According to the invention, the combustion chamber 20 is fluidically connected with the comburent entry aperture 18 of the brazier 11.

[0059] In particular, in the embodiment described here, the combustion chamber 20 is delimited by two lateral walls 22, by one upper wall 23, by one front wall 24, for example able to be opened, which functions as closing door, by one rear wall 25 and by one lower wall 26.

[0060] One or more recirculation apertures 27 are made on an upper part of the rear wall 25, each communicating with an upper end of a respective recirculation conduit 28, which is outside the combustion chamber 20 and has a lower end which, by means of a manifold 43, is connected to the intake of a first fan 29, the delivery of which is fluidically connected to the second entry aperture 18 of the brazier 11.

[0061] In addition or alternatively, the recirculation apertures 27 can be made in other walls of the combustion chamber 20.

[0062] Preferably, the recirculation conduits 28 are substantially parallel to each other and to the rear wall 25, and also detached from each other and from the rear wall 25, for example by between 1 and 3 cm.

[0063] The heating apparatus 10 also comprises a containing body 32, substantially box-shaped, on which two feed apertures 31 are made, which are in communication with the outside and through which the second comburent A can enter.

[0064] The containing body 32 is attached on the external surface of the rear wall 25 of the combustion chamber 20 creating, in cooperation with the latter, a containing compartment V in which the recirculation conduits 28 are disposed.

[0065] An entry aperture 33 is made in the lower wall 26 of the combustion chamber 20, substantially in a central zone thereof, in said entry aperture 33 there being positioned a nozzle 30 having, in the example given here, a central conduit 34 disposed along a longitudinal axis X, substantially vertical, and a series of lateral through holes 35, which substantially lie on a substantially horizontal plane P disposed below the lower wall 26. The lateral holes 35 are in communication with the central conduit 34.

[0066] We must clarify that the conformation and disposition of the central conduit 34 and of the lateral holes 35 may differ, even considerably, compared to what is described here and represented in the attached drawings. For example, instead of the lateral holes 35, an aperture or a slot (not shown) of any suitable shape and size can be made.

[0067] The central conduit 34 is in communication with the conveyor compartment 21 and has the function of injecting the combustible gases S into the combustion chamber 20, while the lateral holes 35 have the function of conveying the second comburent A, coming from the containing compartment V. In particular, the second part V2 of the containing compartment V surrounds the portion of the nozzle 30 on which the lateral holes 35 are made, which are configured to receive the second comburent A coming from the second part V2 of the containing compartment V and to promote the mixing of the second comburent A with the combustible gases S in order to promote the combustion of the latter.

[0068] The feed apertures 31 are disposed below the lower ends of the recirculation conduits 28, that is, substantially level with the lower part of the combustion chamber 20.

[0069] Furthermore, a dividing wall, or partition, 37 is disposed inside the containing body 32, substantially dividing the containing compartment V into two parts, that is, into a first part V1, in which the recirculation conduits 28 are disposed, and into a second part V2, which laps both the rear wall 25 and also the lower wall 26 of the combustion chamber 20.

[0070] The first part V1 and the second part V2 of the containing compartment V are in communication with each other in correspondence with the upper part of the partition 37 which, preferably, is disposed in correspondence with the upper ends of the recirculation conduits 28, that is, where the latter are connected to the respective recirculation apertures 27.

[0071] Therefore, during use, the second comburent A enters from the feed apertures 31, passes through the first part V1 of the containing compartment V and heats up in contact with the recirculation conduits 28, until it reaches the top of the dividing wall, or partition, 37. Then, the second comburent A enters the second part V2 of the containing compartment V from above and passes through it all, until it reaches the lateral holes 35 of the nozzle 30, lapping the rear wall 25 of the combustion chamber 20, heating up further.

[0072] It should be noted that, thanks to this conformation, the containing body 32, in cooperation with the recirculation conduits 28 and the walls 25 and 27 of the combustion chamber 20, constitutes a counter-current heat exchanger, which corresponds to the heat exchange means M4 as above.

[0073] Furthermore, on each of the lateral walls 22 (fig. 8) of the combustion chamber 20 there are evacuation apertures 36, to each of which a respective evacuation pipe 38 is connected, outside the combustion chamber 20 and substantially vertical.

[0074] Each evacuation pipe 38 is fluidically connected to an evacuation chamber 40, in turn connected to the intake of a second fan 39 (fig. 7), the delivery of which communicates with the outside of the apparatus 10.

[0075] The heating apparatus 10 can optionally also comprise an external containing structure 41, substantially in the shape of a parallelepiped and comprising a second compartment 42, inside of which there are disposed, with ample clearance, both the evacuation pipes 38 and also at least a part of the combustion chamber 20, of the conveyor compartment 21 and of the evacuation chamber 40.

[0076] The external structure 41 has, in its lower part, an entry aperture 47, to which a third fan 45 is connected in order to selectively introduce ambient air R into the second compartment 42, and in its upper part an exit aperture 44 from which the same air R can exit in contact with the evacuation pipes 38.

[0077] The heating apparatus 10 also comprises an injection device 46, of any type known per se, to introduce the biomass C into the brazier 11 in a controlled way, whether intermittently or continuously.

[0078] In the example provided here, the injection device 46 comprises a container 48, substantially in the shape of a hopper, containing a biomass C load and an associated metering device 49, of a type known per se, having an exit connected to the entry aperture 16 of the brazier 11 and configured to meter the quantity of biomass C introduced into the brazier 11 in a way that is selective and proportional to certain electrical signals, under the control of a control unit 50 (fig. 11), as will be described in detail below.

[0079] Therefore, the biomass C lies in an autonomous and separate environment with respect to the brazier 11, and it is introduced therein in a selective, automatic and substantially continuous way by the injection device 49.

[0080] The metering device 49 (fig. 7) is of the type which comprises a rotating element 51 provided with radial blades 52 and connected to an electric motor 53 (fig. 11) controlled by the control unit 50. With each rotation, even partial, of the rotating element 51, a certain quantity of biomass C is introduced into the brazier 11, by means of an introduction conduit 54.

[0081] It is therefore clear that the quantity of biomass C introduced into the brazier 11, in a given unit of time, is a function of the rotation speed of the rotating element 51 (fig. 7).

[0082] In other embodiments, not shown in the drawings, the metering device 49 can comprise an auger.

[0083] The injection device 46 allows to introduce the biomass C into the brazier 11 in an automatic, controlled and continuous way, so as to allow to adjust the flow rate of biomass C introduced into the brazier 11.

[0084] The heating apparatus 10 also comprises a sensor 58 (figs. 7 and 11), also of a type known per se and for example consisting of a lambda probe, which is suitable to detect the quantity of oxygen present in the environment which surrounds it. In the example provided here, the sensor 58 is positioned downstream of the combustion chamber 20 and in particular inside the evacuation chamber 40.

[0085] In other embodiments, the sensor 58 can be disposed inside the evacuation pipes 38 and/or inside the recirculation conduits 28 in order to detect the quantity of oxygen in the fumes F.

[0086] The sensor 58 is connected to the control unit 50 and it is configured to transmit to the latter an electrical signal SP proportional to the quantity of oxygen detected by it.

[0087] The control unit 50 is configured to also control the first fan 29 and the second fan 39, and possibly also the third fan 45.

[0088] In addition, the control unit 50 is configured to command the operation of the recirculation means M2 in order to adjust the flow rate of the first comburent F1, and to command the operation of the injection device 46 in order to control the flow rate of the biomass C introduced into the brazier 11.

[0089] In particular, the control unit 50 can control the rotation speed of the first fan 29 and consequently the flow rate of the first comburent F1, the rotation speed of the second fan 39 and consequently the flow rate of the second comburent A, and the rotation speed of the rotating element 51 of the metering device 49 and consequently the flow rate of biomass C into the brazier 11.

[0090] In other embodiments, not shown in the drawings, an element made of thermoconductive material, for example ceramic, can be attached at least to the lateral walls 22 of the combustion chamber 20, in order to increase the thermal inertia.

[0091] In other embodiments, not shown in the drawings, one or more pipes for circulating water can be associated with at least the lateral walls 22 of the combustion chamber 20.

[0092] With reference to fig. 2, in a second embodiment, a heating apparatus 100 according to the present invention can comprise all the components of the heating apparatus 10 described above, except the heat exchange means M4. In this embodiment, the heating apparatus 100 can also comprise a second ignition device, not shown in the drawings, disposed substantially in proximity to the nozzle 30 and configured to trigger the combustion of the combustible gases S.

[0093] With reference to fig. 3, in a third embodiment, a heating apparatus 200 can comprise all the components of the heating apparatus 10 described above, except the heat exchange means M4 and the first fan 29.

[0094] Also in this embodiment, the heating apparatus 200 can also comprise a second ignition device, not shown in the drawings, disposed substantially in proximity to the nozzle 30 and configured to trigger the combustion of the combustible gases S.

[0095] With reference to fig. 4, in a fourth embodiment, a heating apparatus 300 can comprise all the components of the heating apparatus 10 described above, except the first fan 29.

[0096] It should be noted that, in the third and fourth embodiments, the heating apparatus 200, 300 only comprises the second fan 39, connected to the combustion chamber 20 in order to draw the fumes F generated inside the latter.

[0097] Furthermore, in the third and fourth embodiments, a conduit connected downstream of the second fan 39 can be connected to the brazier 11 in order to function as a recirculation mean M3 to convey a first part F1 of the fumes F, which functions as a first comburent.

[0098] In other possible variants of the third and fourth embodiments, the conduit described above, which functions as a recirculation mean M3, can be disposed upstream of the second fan 39 and downstream of the combustion chamber 20 (figs. 5 and 6).

[0099] The operation of the heating apparatus 10 described heretofore, which corresponds to the method according to the present invention, comprises the following steps.

[0100] When the heating apparatus 10 is started, the control unit 50 drives the injection device 46 to introduce a certain quantity of biomass C into the brazier 11 and the ignition device 19 to ignite the biomass C in the brazier 11.

[0101] Furthermore, the control unit 50 drives the first fan 29 which takes a first comburent F1 from the combustion chamber 20 and introduces it into the brazier 11. We wish to clarify that, at start-up, substantially ambient air is present inside the combustion chamber 20.

[0102] The control unit 50 also drives the second fan 39 which draws the second comburent A from the external environment, through the feed apertures 31, and introduces the latter into the combustion chamber 20 through its entry aperture 33.

[0103] In this start-up step, the combustion between the biomass C inside the brazier 11 and the first comburent F1, which hereafter will be referred to as start-up combustion, is substantially of the reverse flame type, also called downdraft by the people of skill in the art, that is, by introducing the first comburent F1 into the brazier 11 from the top downward, in such a way that it passes, in this direction, through the biomass C disposed, during use, in the brazier 11 and consequently generating a flame which is also directed from the top downward, and fumes.

[0104] The fumes produced by the start-up combustion are conveyed into the combustion chamber 20 by means of the conveyor compartment 21, thanks to the draw provided by the first fan 29 which, subsequently, re-introduces them into the brazier 11. Therefore, in this step, the first comburent F1 consists of a first part of the start-up combustion fumes.

[0105] In particular, a first part F1 of the start-up combustion fumes is drawn by the first fan 29 by means of the first recirculation apertures 27 and is re-introduced into the brazier 11 from its second aperture 18, functioning as first comburent F1, and a second part F2 of the start-up combustion fumes is drawn in by the second fan 39 by means of the evacuation apertures 36 and is expelled from the heating apparatus 10.

[0106] After a certain period of time, a steady state operating condition is reached, in which the first comburent F1 has a temperature and quantity of oxygen suitable to trigger the process of pyrolysis of the biomass C present in the brazier 11.

[0107] At this point, the first comburent F1 introduced into the brazier 11 is suitable to thermochemically decompose the biomass C inside the brazier 11 and produce combustible gases S.

[0108] It should be noted that the thermochemical decomposition of the biomass C also substantially occurs in downdraft, that is, by introducing the first comburent F1 into the brazier 11 from the top downward, in such a way that it passes, in this direction, through the biomass C which is disposed, during use, in the brazier 11. In this way, the combustible gases S produced by the thermochemical decomposition of the biomass C escape from the lower portion of the brazier 11.

[0109] This configuration is advantageous in that it forces the combustible gases S to pass through the biomass C contained in the brazier 11 and this allows to separate their volatile components, producing combustible gases S with a reduced quantity of TAR.

[0110] Therefore, during steady state operation, it is no longer the fumes generated by the start-up combustion that exit from the exit aperture 15 of the brazier 11, but the combustible gases S generated by the thermochemical decomposition of the biomass C.

[0111] The method then provides to introduce the combustible gases S into the combustion chamber 20 by means of the conveyor compartment 21, thanks to the draw of the first fan 29. In fact, we wish to clarify that, when operating at steady state, only the combustible gases S pass through the conveyor means M2. In particular, in the example given here, when operating at steady state, only the combustible gases S that are introduced into the combustion chamber 20 pass through the conveyor compartment 21

[0112] The method then provides to oxidize, or ignite, the combustible gases S by means of the second comburent A introduced into the combustion chamber 20, producing a flame, fumes F and developing heat.

[0113] Optionally, the method can provide to heat the second comburent A, using the heat contained in the first comburent F1 before the second comburent A reaches the combustion chamber 20. This heat exchange is preferably carried out in countercurrent.

[0114] It should be noted that, in this case, the ignition of the oxidation, or combustion, or fire, of the combustible gases S in the combustion chamber 20 occurs only by means of the "meeting" between the latter and the second heated comburent A. This is very advantageous, since it does not require the presence and use of additional ignition devices.

[0115] As before, a first part F1 of the fumes F generated, this time, by the combustion of the combustible gases S is drawn by the first fan 29 by means of the recirculation apertures 27 and is reintroduced into the brazier 11 from its comburent entry aperture 18, functioning as a first comburent F1, and a second part F2 of the fumes F is drawn by the second fan 39 by means of the evacuation apertures 36 and is expelled from the heating apparatus 10.

[0116] At this point, the first part F1 of the fumes F, re-introduced into the brazier 11, and which in fact functions as first comburent F1, has an oxygen component advantageously comprised between about 7% and about 12% by volume, which is smaller than that present in the ambient air. This is particularly advantageous since, by doing so, an anoxic environment is created in the brazier 11, that is, lacking in oxygen, which is present in a quantity sufficient to react mainly with the carbon present in the biomass C and generate the combustible gases.

[0117] Therefore, the production of polluting emissions such as, for example, nitrogen oxides, is significantly decreased since there is not a sufficient quantity of oxygen in the brazier 11 to bind with the nitrogen comprised in the biomass C.

[0118] Furthermore, when operating at steady state, the first part F1 of the fumes F, the moment it enters the brazier 11, has a temperature comprised between about 240°C and about 320°C, this is advantageous since at least part of the CO₂ present therein is re-converted into CO, that is, carbon monoxide, which is combustible. Another advantage is that the water present in gaseous phase in the first part F1 of the fumes F in the brazier 11 is converted into hydrogen, increasing the calorific value of the combustible gas S.

[0119] The control unit 50 can also control the injection device 46, the first fan 29 and the second fan 39 on the basis of the electrical signal received from the sensor 58. For example, the control unit 50 can modify the flow rate of the first comburent F1, of the second comburent A and/or of the biomass C in feedback, until the value detected by the sensor 58 reaches a predetermined target value. Optionally, the control unit 50 also drives the third fan 45 to generate a flow of ambient air R which passes into the second compartment 42 in order to exchange heat with the evacuation pipes 38, heating up. The heated ambient air R is then conveyed once again toward the external environment.

[0120] In fact, it should be noted that the injection device 46, the first fan 29 and the second fan 39 allow to manage the flow rate of the first comburent F1, of the second comburent A and/or of the biomass C in a coordinated way, so as to reduce the polluting emissions of the heating apparatus 10 and better manage the generation of heat thereby.

[0121] It is clear that modifications and/or additions of parts may be made to the heating apparatus 10 as described heretofore, without departing from the field and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

[0122] It is also clear that, although the present invention has been described with reference to some specific examples, a person of skill in the art shall certainly be able to achieve equivalent forms of heating apparatus 10 within the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims.

[0123] In the following claims, the sole purpose of the references in brackets is to facilitate reading and they must not be considered as restrictive factors with regard to the field of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

1. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300), comprising both thermochemical decomposition means (M1) configured to receive a biomass (C) which functions as fuel and a first comburent (F1) and suitable to thermochemically decompose said biomass (C) and produce at least one combustible gas (S), and also a combustion chamber (20) configured to receive a second comburent (A) and said at least one combustible gas (S) and suitable to develop heat by means of a flame fed by said at least one combustible gas (S) and which produces fumes (F), also comprising both conveyor means (M2) interposed between said thermochemical decomposition means (M1) and said combustion chamber (20) to convey said at least one combustible gas (S) to said combustion chamber (20), and also recirculation means (M3) to convey at least a first part (F1) of said fumes (F) from said combustion chamber (20) to said thermochemical decomposition means (M1), said first part (F1) of said fumes (F) constituting said first comburent (F1),

wherein said thermochemical decomposition means (M1) comprise a brazier (11) substantially closed with respect to the external environment, such that the brazier (11) does not have any apertures that allow the comburent air to enter directly from the external environment, and comprising a first entry aperture (16) for said biomass (C) to enter, a second entry aperture (18) for said first comburent (F1) to enter and an exit aperture (15) for said at least one combustible gas (S) to exit,

wherein said combustion chamber (20) also comprises an entry aperture (33) to receive said second comburent (A) from the external environment and said combustible gas (S) and said conveyor means (M2) comprise at least one conveyor compartment (21) interposed between said exit aperture (15) of said brazier (11) and said entry aperture (33) of said combustion chamber (20), wherein said at least one combustible gas (S) to exit the exit aperture (15) of the brazier (11) is to flow directly into said conveyor compartment (21), which defines said conveyor means (M2).

2. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in claim 1, which also comprises heat exchange means (M4) associated with said recirculation means (M3) and configured to heat said second comburent (A), using the heat contained in said first comburent (F1) before said second comburent (A) reaches said combustion chamber (20).

3. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in claim 1 or 2, wherein said recirculation means (M3) comprise at least one recirculation aperture (27) made in said combustion chamber (20) and at least one recirculation conduit (28) communicating with said at least one recirculation aperture (27) and with said second entry aperture (18) of said brazier (11).

4. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in any claim hereinbefore, wherein said combustion chamber (20) also comprises at least one evacuation aperture (36) communicating with a respective evacuation pipe (38), to evacuate a second part (F2) of said fumes (F) into the external environment.

5. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in claim 3 and 4, which also comprises a first fan (29) disposed downstream of said at least one recirculation aperture (27) and upstream of said second entry aperture (18) of said brazier (11) and configured to draw said first comburent (F1) from said combustion chamber (20) and introduce it into said brazier (11).

6. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in claim 5 or as in claim 4 when it depends on claim 3, which also comprises a second fan (39) disposed downstream of said at least one evacuation aperture (36) and configured to draw at least said second part (F2) of said fumes (F) from said combustion chamber (20).

7. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in any claims hereinbefore, wherein said entry apertures (16, 18) of said brazier (11) are disposed in the upper part of said brazier (11), at a higher level than a level at which said exit aperture (15) is located.

8. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in any claims hereinbefore, wherein said brazier (11) and said combustion chamber (20) are autonomous, separated from each other and connected in a fluidic way by means of said conveyor compartment (21).

9. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in any claims hereinbefore, wherein said combustion chamber (20) is fluidically connected with the second entry aperture (18) of the brazier (11).

10. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in any claims hereinbefore, wherein said combustion chamber (20) is delimited by two lateral walls (22), by one upper wall (23), by one front wall (24) able to be opened, which functions as closing door, by one rear wall (25) and by one lower wall (26).

11. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in any claims hereinbefore, which also comprises an injection device (46) configured to introduce the biomass C into said brazier (11) in a controlled way, whether intermittently or continuously.

12. Heating apparatus (10, 100, 200, 300) as in claim 11, wherein said injection device (46) is configured to introduce the biomass (C) into the brazier (11) in an automatic, controlled and continuous way, so as to allow to adjust the flow rate of biomass (C) introduced into the brazier (11).

13. Heating method using a heating apparatus according to any claims hereinbefore, comprising the following steps:

- providing the brazier (11) and introducing a biomass (C) into said brazier (11);

- providing the combustion chamber (20) and drawing the first comburent (F1) from said combustion chamber (20);

- introducing said first comburent (F1) into said brazier (11) in order to thermochemically decompose said biomass (C) and produce the at least one combustible gas (S); and

- conveying said combustible gas (S) into said combustion chamber (20) where combustion of said combustible gas (S) occurs.

14. Method as in claim 13, which also provides to:

- draw the second comburent (A) from the external environment and convey it into said combustion chamber (20) in order to ignite said combustible gas (S) developing heat and fumes (F); and

- draw, from said combustion chamber (20), both a first part (F1) of said fumes (F), which constitutes said first comburent (F1), in order to introduce it into said brazier (11), and also a second part (F2) of said fumes (F) in order to evacuate it into the external environment.

15. Method as in claim 13 or 14, which also provides to heat said second comburent (A) by means of an exchange of heat between the latter and said first comburent (F1), before said second comburent (A) enters said combustion chamber (20).

Ansprüche

1. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) mit sowohl einer thermochemischen Zersetzungseinrichtung (M1), die so aufgebaut ist, dass sie eine Biomasse (C) empfängt, die als ein Brennstoff dient, und ein erstes Brandfördermittel (F1) empfängt und dazu geeignet ist, die Biomasse (C) thermochemisch zu zersetzen und zumindest ein brennbares Gas (S) zu erzeugen, und außerdem einer Verbrennungskammer (20), die so aufgebaut ist, dass sie ein zweites Brandfördermittel (A) und das zumindest eine brennbare Gas (S) empfängt, und geeignet ist, Wärme mittels einer Flamme zu entwickeln, die durch das eine brennbare Gas (S) zugeführt wird, und die Dämpfe (F) erzeugt,

wobei sie außerdem Folgendes aufweist: sowohl eine Beförderungseinrichtung (M2), die zwischen der thermochemischen Zersetzungseinrichtung (M1) und der Verbrennungskammer (20) angeordnet ist, um das zumindest eine brennbare Gas (S) zu der Verbrennungskammer (20) zu befördern, und außerdem eine Rezirkulationseinrichtung (M3), um zumindest einen ersten Teil (F1) der Dämpfe (F) von der Verbrennungskammer (20) zu der thermochemischen Zersetzungseinrichtung (M1) zu befördern, wobei der erste Teil (F1) der Dämpfe (F) das erste Brandfördermittel (F1) bildet,

wobei die thermochemische Zersetzungseinrichtung (M1) ein Kohlebecken (11) aufweist, das im Wesentlichen in Bezug auf die äußere Umgebung so geschlossen ist, dass das Kohlebecken (11) keinerlei Öffnungen hat, die ermöglichen, dass die Brandfördermittelluft direkt von der äußeren Umgebung eindringt, und eine erste Eingangsöffnung (16) für das Eintreten der Biomasse (C), eine zweite Eingangsöffnung (18) für das Eintreten des ersten Brandfördermittels (F1) und eine Ausgangsöffnung (15) für das Austreten des zumindest einen brennbaren Gases (S) aufweist,

wobei die Verbrennungskammer (20) außerdem eine Eingangsöffnung (33) aufweist zum Empfangen des zweiten Brandfördermittels (A) von der äußeren Umgebung und des brennbaren Gases (S), und die Beförderungseinrichtung (M2) zumindest einen Beförderungsraum (21) aufweist, der zwischen der Ausgangsöffnung (15) des Kohlebeckens (11) und der Eingangsöffnung (33) der Verbrennungskammer (20) angeordnet ist,

wobei das zumindest eine brennbare Gas (S) zum Verlassen der Ausgangsöffnung (15) des Kohlebeckens (11) direkt in den Beförderungsraum (21) strömt, der die Beförderungseinrichtung (M2) definiert.

2. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß Anspruch 1, die außerdem eine Wärmeaustauscheinrichtung (M4) aufweist, die mit der Rezirkulationseinrichtung (M3) in Zusammenhang steht und so aufgebaut ist, dass sie das zweite Brandfördermittel (A) unter Verwendung der Wärme erwärmt, die in dem ersten Brandfördermittel (F1) enthalten ist, bevor das zweite Brandfördermittel (A) die Verbrennungskammer (20) erreicht.

3. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei die Rezirkulationseinrichtung (M3) zumindest eine Rezirkulationsöffnung (27) aufweist, die in der Verbrennungskammer (20) gestaltet ist, und zumindest eine Rezirkulationsleitung (28) aufweist, die mit der zumindest einen Rezirkulationsöffnung (27) und mit der zweiten Eingangsöffnung (18) des Kohlebeckens (11) in Kommunikation steht.

4. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Verbrennungskammer (20) außerdem zumindest eine Entleerungsöffnung (36) aufweist, die mit einem jeweiligen Entleerungsrohr (38) in Kommunikation steht, um einen zweiten Teil (F2) der Dämpfe (F) zu der äußeren Umgebung zu entleeren.

5. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß Anspruch 3 oder 4, die außerdem ein erstes Gebläse (29) aufweist, das stromabwärtig der zumindest einen Rezirkulationsöffnung (27) und stromaufwärtig der zweiten Eingangsöffnung (18) des Kohlebeckens (11) angeordnet ist und so aufgebaut ist, dass es das erste Brandfördermittel (F1) von der Verbrennungskammer (20) ansaugt und es zu dem Kohlebecken (11) einleitet.

6. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß Anspruch 5 oder gemäß Anspruch 4, wenn dieser von Anspruch 3 abhängig ist, die außerdem ein zweites Gebläse (39) aufweist, das stromabwärtig der zumindest einen Entleerungsöffnung (36) angeordnet ist und so aufgebaut ist, dass es zumindest den zweiten Teil (F2) der Dämpfe (F) von der Verbrennungskammer (20) ansaugt.

7. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Eingangsöffnungen (16, 18) des Kohlebeckens (11) in dem oberen Teil des Kohlebeckens (11) an einer höheren Höhe als eine Höhe angeordnet sind, an der die Ausgangsöffnung (15) angeordnet ist.

8. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei das Kohlebecken (11) und die Verbrennungskammer (20) autonom sind, voneinander separat sind und in einer Fluid-Weise mittels dem Beförderungsmittelraum (21) verbunden sind.

9. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Verbrennungskammer (20) mit der zweiten Eingangsöffnung (18) des Kohlebeckens (11) Fluid-verbunden ist.

10. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, wobei die Verbrennungskammer (20) durch zwei seitliche Wände (22), durch eine obere Wand (23), durch eine vordere Wand (24), die geöffnet werden kann, die als eine Schließtür fungiert, durch eine hintere Wand (25) und durch eine untere Wand (26) begrenzt ist.

11. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, die außerdem eine Einspritzvorrichtung (46) aufweist, die so aufgebaut ist, dass sie die Biomasse C in das Kohlebecken (11) in einer gesteuerten Weise, entweder in unterbrochener Weise oder fortlaufend, einleitet.

12. Erwärmungsvorrichtung (10, 100, 200, 300) gemäß Anspruch 11, wobei die Einspritzvorrichtung (46) so aufgebaut ist, dass sie die Biomasse (C) in das Kohlebecken (11) in einer automatischen, gesteuerten und kontinuierlichen Weise so einleitet, dass ermöglicht wird, dass die Strömungsrate der in das Kohlebecken (11) eingeleiteten Biomasse (C) eingestellt wird.

13. Erwärmungsverfahren unter Verwendung einer Erwärmungsvorrichtung gemäß einem der vorherigen Ansprüche, mit den folgenden Schritten:

- Vorsehen des Kohlebeckens (11) und Einleiten einer Biomasse (C) in das Kohlebecken (11);

- Vorsehen der Verbrennungskammer (20) und Ansaugen des ersten Brandfördermittels (F1) von der Verbrennungskammer (20);

- Einleiten des ersten Brandfördermittels (F1) in das Kohlebecken (11), um die Biomasse (C) thermochemisch zu zersetzen und das zumindest eine brennbare Gas (S) zu erzeugen; und

- Befördern des brennbaren Gases (S) in die Verbrennungskammer (20), in der die Verbrennung des brennbaren Gases (S) stattfindet.

14. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 13, das außerdem Folgendes vorsieht:

- Ansaugen des zweiten Brandfördermittels (A) von der äußeren Umgebung und Befördern desselben in die Verbrennungskammer (20), um das brennbare Gas (S) unter Entwicklung von Wärme und Dämpfen (F) zu zünden; und

- von der Verbrennungskammer (20) erfolgendes Ansaugen von sowohl einem ersten Teil (F1) der Dämpfe (F), der das erste Brandfördermittel (F1) bildet, um dieses in das Kohlebecken (11) einzuleiten, und außerdem eines zweiten Teils (F2) der Dämpfe (F), um diesen zu der äußeren Umgebung zu entleeren.

15. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 13 oder 14, das außerdem Folgendes vorsieht:
Erwärmen des zweiten Brandfördermittels (A) mittels Wärmeaustausch zwischen dem letztgenannten und dem ersten Brandfördermittel (F1), bevor das zweite Brandfördermittel (A) in die Verbrennungskammer (20) hineingelangt.

Revendications

1. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300), comprenant à la fois des moyens de décomposition thermochimique (M1) configurés pour recevoir une biomasse (C) qui fonctionne en tant que combustible et un premier comburant (F1), et apte à décomposer thermochimiquement ladite biomasse (C) et à produire au moins un gaz combustible (S), ainsi qu'une chambre de combustion (20) configurée pour recevoir un second comburant (A) et ledit au moins un gaz combustible (S), et apte à développer de la chaleur au moyen d'une flamme alimentée par ledit au moins un gaz combustible (S) et qui produit des fumées (F), comprenant également des moyens de transport (M2) interposés entre lesdits moyens de décomposition thermochimique (M1) et ladite chambre de combustion (20) pour transporter ledit au moins un gaz combustible (S) vers ladite chambre de combustion (20), ainsi que des moyens de recirculation (M3) pour transporter au moins une première partie (F1) desdites fumées (F) depuis ladite chambre de combustion (20) vers lesdits moyens de décomposition thermochimique (M1), ladite première partie (F1) desdites fumées (F) constituant ledit premier comburant (F1),
dans lequel lesdits moyens de décomposition thermochimique (M1) comprennent un brûleur (11) sensiblement fermé par rapport à l'environnement extérieur, de sorte que le brûleur (11) ne présente aucune ouverture permettant à de l'air comburant d'entrer directement à partir de l'environnement extérieur, et comprenant une première ouverture d'entrée (16) pour que ladite biomasse (C) entre, une seconde ouverture d'entrée (18) pour que ledit premier comburant (F1) entre et une ouverture de sortie (15) pour que ledit au moins un gaz combustible (S) sorte, dans lequel ladite chambre de combustion (20) comprend également une ouverture d'entrée (33) pour recevoir ledit second comburant (A) à partir de l'environnement externe et ledit gaz combustible (S) et lesdits moyens de transport (M2) comprennent au moins un compartiment de transport (21) interposé entre ladite ouverture de sortie (15) dudit brûleur (11) et ladite ouverture d'entrée (33) de ladite chambre de combustion (20), dans lequel ledit au moins un gaz combustible (S), pour sortir de l'ouverture de sortie (15) du brûleur (11), doit s'écouler directement dans ledit compartiment de transport (21), qui définit lesdits moyens de transport (M2).

2. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon la revendication 1, qui comprend également des moyens d'échange de chaleur (M4) associés auxdits moyens de recirculation (M3) et configurés pour chauffer ledit second comburant (A), en utilisant la chaleur contenue dans ledit premier comburant (F1) avant que ledit second comburant (A) n'atteigne ladite chambre de combustion (20).

3. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans lequel lesdits moyens de recirculation (M3) comprennent au moins une ouverture de recirculation (27) réalisée dans ladite chambre de combustion (20) et au moins un conduit de recirculation (28) communiquant avec ladite au moins une ouverture de recirculation (27) et avec ladite seconde ouverture d'entrée (18) dudit brûleur (11).

4. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ladite chambre de combustion (20) comprend également au moins une ouverture d'évacuation (36) communiquant avec un tuyau d'évacuation respectif (38), pour évacuer une seconde partie (F2) desdites fumées (F) dans l'environnement extérieur.

5. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon les revendications 3 et 4, qui comprend également un premier ventilateur (29) disposé en aval de ladite au moins une ouverture de recirculation (27) et en amont de ladite seconde ouverture d'entrée (18) dudit brûleur (11) et configuré pour attirer ledit premier comburant (F1) à partir de ladite chambre de combustion (20) et l'introduire dans ledit brûleur (11).

6. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon la revendication 5 ou selon la revendication 4 lorsqu'elle dépend de la revendication 3, qui comprend également un second ventilateur (39) disposé en aval de ladite au moins une ouverture d'évacuation (36) et configuré pour attirer au moins ladite seconde partie (F2) desdites fumées (F) à partir de ladite chambre de combustion (20).

7. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel lesdites ouvertures d'entrée (16, 18) dudit brûleur (11) sont disposées dans la partie supérieure dudit brûleur (11), à un niveau supérieur à un niveau auquel ladite ouverture de sortie (15) est située.

8. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ledit brûleur (11) et ladite chambre de combustion (20) sont autonomes, séparés l'un de l'autre et reliés de manière fluidique au moyen dudit compartiment de transport (21).

9. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ladite chambre de combustion (20) est reliée de manière fluidique à la seconde ouverture d'entrée (18) du brûleur (11).

10. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel ladite chambre de combustion (20) est délimitée par deux parois latérales (22), par une paroi supérieure (23), par une paroi avant (24) pouvant être ouverte, qui fonctionne comme une porte de fermeture, par une paroi arrière (25) et par une paroi inférieure (26).

11. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, qui comprend également un dispositif d'injection (46) configuré pour introduire la biomasse C dans ledit brûleur (11) de manière commandée, que ce soit de manière intermittente ou continue.

12. Appareil de chauffage (10, 100, 200, 300) selon la revendication 11, dans lequel ledit dispositif d'injection (46) est configuré pour introduire la biomasse (C) dans le brûleur (11) d'une manière automatique, commandée et continue, de manière à permettre d'ajuster le débit d'écoulement de la biomasse (C) introduite dans le brûleur (11).

13. Procédé de chauffage utilisant un appareil de chauffage selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comprenant les étapes suivantes consistant à :

- fournir le brûleur (11) et introduire une biomasse (C) dans ledit brûleur (11) ;

- fournir la chambre de combustion (20) et attirer le premier comburant (F1) à partir de ladite chambre de combustion (20) ;

- introduire ledit premier comburant (F1) dans ledit brûleur (11) afin de décomposer thermochimiquement ladite biomasse (C) et de produire le au moins un gaz combustible (S) ; et

- transporter ledit gaz combustible (S) jusque dans ladite chambre de combustion (20) où la combustion dudit gaz combustible (S) survient.

14. Procédé selon la revendication 13, qui comprend en outre les étapes consistant à :

- attirer le second comburant (A) à partir de l'environnement extérieur et le transporter jusque dans ladite chambre de combustion (20) afin d'enflammer ledit gaz combustible (S) en développant de la chaleur et des fumées (F) ; et

- attirer, à partir de ladite chambre de combustion (20), à la fois une première partie (F1) desdites fumées (F) constituant ledit premier comburant (F1), afin de l'introduire dans ledit brûleur (11), et également une seconde partie (F2) desdites fumées (F) afin de l'évacuer dans l'environnement extérieur.

15. Procédé selon la revendication 13 ou 14, qui prévoit également de chauffer ledit second comburant (A) au moyen d'un échange de chaleur entre ce dernier et ledit premier comburant (F1), avant que ledit second comburant (A) n'entre dans ladite chambre de combustion (20).

Drawing