Vacuum cavity high-speed flywheel energy storage device

By combining multiple sealing structures and high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seals, the problem of vacuum sealing under rotating components in flywheel energy storage devices is solved, achieving efficient and stable energy storage and conversion.

CN223942487UActive Publication Date: 2026-02-24LUOYANGCHUANGDA MASCH CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202520501776.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-03-21
Publication Date
2026-02-24
Estimated Expiration
2035-03-21

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing technologies struggle to maintain the vacuum seal of flywheel energy storage devices in the presence of rotating components, leading to energy loss and material degradation risks due to air resistance.

Method used

Employing a multi-seal structure and high-speed magnetofluid seals, the magnetic field maintains the magnetofluid at a specific location to form a dynamic sealing layer. Combined with a multi-step rotating spindle and spacer design, this ensures the free rotation of the rotating spindle and the stability of the vacuum environment.

Benefits of technology

It effectively prevents outside air from entering, reduces frictional losses, improves system stability and efficiency, reduces vibration and displacement risks, and ensures the long-term maintenance of the vacuum environment.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a vacuum cavity high-speed flywheel energy storage device which comprises an upper cover and a bearing cover, the upper cover and the bearing cover are oppositely arranged, a rotating main shaft is connected between the upper cover and the bearing cover in a sleeved mode, the rotating main shaft is of a multi-step structure, and a flywheel is connected to the step, with the largest diameter, of the rotating main shaft in a sleeved mode. A first space ring is arranged on the outer side of the rotating main shaft, a bearing assembly is connected to the outer side of the first space ring in a sleeving mode, and sealing bases are arranged on the two sides of the upper cover and the two sides of the bearing cover. Free rotation of the rotating main shaft is not hindered, and a long-term stable vacuum environment can be effectively realized; multiple sealing structures including the upper cover, the bearing cover, the baffle, the left end cover, the sealing plate and the right side sealing side plate jointly act to maintain the sealing performance of the whole system, and it is ensured that the internal vacuum degree is not interfered by the outside world.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electrical energy storage technology, specifically a vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device. Background Technology

[0002] Flywheel energy storage technology is based on the conversion between mechanical energy and electrical energy. Its core is a high-speed rotating flywheel, which stores electrical energy by converting it into kinetic energy via an electric motor. When energy needs to be released, the flywheel decelerates and a generator converts the kinetic energy back into electrical energy for output. This technology offers advantages such as fast response, long cycle life, high efficiency, and environmental friendliness, making it particularly suitable for applications such as power grid frequency regulation and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).

[0003] To maximize the energy storage efficiency of a flywheel and reduce energy loss due to air resistance, the flywheel is typically housed in a near-vacuum chamber. A vacuum environment not only significantly reduces frictional losses but also improves the flywheel's safety and reliability by minimizing the risk of material degradation due to high temperatures or oxidation. However, maintaining a vacuum environment presents a significant technical challenge: ensuring the system's airtightness, especially in the presence of rotating components. Currently, achieving a vacuum seal typically involves using a special liquid between the bearings to create a water-like seal. However, this method can lead to the absorption of the liquid during vacuuming, affecting its performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The technical problem to be solved by this application is to overcome the existing defects and provide a vacuum cavity high-speed flywheel energy storage device, which can effectively solve the problems in the background art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: a vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device, comprising an upper cover and a bearing cover, the upper cover and the bearing cover being disposed opposite to each other, and a rotating main shaft being sleeved between the upper cover and the bearing cover, the rotating main shaft having a multi-step structure, the flywheel being sleeved at the step with the largest diameter of the rotating main shaft, a bearing assembly being disposed on the outer side of the rotating main shaft, sealing seats being disposed on both sides of the upper cover and the bearing cover, a second spacer being sleeved on the left side of the step with the largest diameter of the rotating main shaft, the second spacer being abutting against one side of the flywheel, and high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seals being disposed on the outer side of the second spacer and at the shoulder of the rotating main shaft.

[0006] As a preferred technical solution of this application, a baffle is provided on one side of the bearing assembly on the left side. The baffle is coaxially arranged with the rotating spindle. A left end cover is provided on one side of the baffle. A step is provided on the left end cover. The groove of the step matches the protrusion of the upper cover. The protrusion of the left end cover is closely arranged with the baffle.

[0007] As a preferred technical solution of this application, a sealing plate is provided on one side of the bearing assembly on the right side, and a right sealing side plate is also provided on the outer side of the sealing plate. The protrusion of the right sealing side plate is close to the sealing plate, and its flat end is in contact with the upper cover.

[0008] As a preferred embodiment of this application, the inner diameter of the bearing assembly on the left end is the same as the outer diameter of the second spacer.

[0009] As a preferred technical solution of this application, the bearing assembly at the right end is connected to the outside of the rotating spindle, and the left end is closely disposed with the high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seal.

[0010] As a preferred embodiment of this application, a first spacer ring is further provided between the two bearings in the bearing assembly.

[0011] Compared with existing technologies, this application utilizes a magnetic field to maintain the magnetofluid at a specific location to form a dynamic sealing layer, which can prevent external air from entering the system without hindering the free rotation of the main shaft, effectively achieving a long-term stable vacuum environment. Through a multi-layered sealing structure including the top cover, bearing cover, baffle, left end cover, sealing plate, and right sealing side plate, the system works together to maintain the sealing performance of the entire system, ensuring that the internal vacuum is not disturbed by external factors. The use of the first and second spacers not only provides stable support for the flywheel but also further enhances the rigidity and stability of the system, reducing the risk of vibration and displacement. The multi-step structure of the main shaft allows for the precise installation and positioning of components of different sizes, improving the overall stability and efficiency of the system. Attached Figure Description

[0012] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this application.

[0013] In the diagram: 1 flywheel, 2 top cover, 3 high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seal, 4 rotating spindle, 5 first spacer, 6 bearing cover, 7 baffle, 8 left end cover, 9 bearing assembly, 10 second spacer. Detailed Implementation

[0014] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0015] Please see Figure 1This application provides a technical solution: a vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device, including an upper cover 2 and a bearing cover 6, the upper cover 2 and the bearing cover 6 are arranged opposite to each other, and a rotating main shaft 4 is sleeved between the upper cover 2 and the bearing cover 6. The rotating main shaft 4 has a multi-step structure, and the flywheel 1 is sleeved at the step with the largest diameter of the rotating main shaft 4.

[0016] The top cover 2 and the bearing cover 6 constitute the outer casing of the energy storage device. They not only protect the internal components from external environmental influences but also provide the necessary sealing to maintain the vacuum level of the vacuum chamber. Their relative arrangement helps ensure that the rotating spindle 4 can operate stably in its central position.

[0017] The rotary spindle 4, with its multi-step structure, accommodates the installation requirements of components of different sizes. This allows the components to be tightly and securely connected, thereby improving the overall stability and efficiency of the system.

[0018] The flywheel 1 is fitted onto the step with the largest diameter of the rotating main shaft 4 so as to maximize the storage of kinetic energy during high-speed rotation. When energy needs to be released, the flywheel 1 converts the stored energy into electrical energy output by decelerating.

[0019] In operation, an external power source supplies electricity to the motor, causing the rotating spindle 4 to accelerate and drive the flywheel 1 to a predetermined speed. At this point, electrical energy is converted into kinetic energy and stored in the flywheel. When the power grid requires additional power, the kinetic energy of the flywheel 1 is converted back into electrical energy through a deceleration process and output to the power grid via a generator. Throughout the entire process, the precise coordination between the components ensures efficient energy conversion and transmission.

[0020] A bearing assembly 9 is provided on the outer side of the rotating spindle 4. Sealing seats are provided on both sides of the upper cover 2 and the bearing cover 6. A second spacer 10 is also fitted on the left side of the step with the largest diameter of the rotating spindle 4. The second spacer 10 is in contact with one side of the flywheel 1.

[0021] The bearing assembly 9 is directly sleeved onto the rotating spindle 4, providing the necessary support for the spindle 4 and enabling it to rotate efficiently under low-friction conditions. The bearing assembly 9 improves system efficiency and extends service life.

[0022] The sealing seat ensures the airtightness of the entire device, preventing outside air from entering the vacuum chamber and affecting the efficient operation of flywheel 1.

[0023] The second spacer ring 10 is fitted onto the left side of the largest diameter step of the rotating main shaft 4 and abuts against one side of the flywheel 1. This further secures the position of the flywheel 1, ensuring its stability during high-speed rotation and reducing the risk of vibration and misalignment.

[0024] High-speed magnetohydrodynamic seals 3 are provided on the outer side of the second spacer 10 and at the shoulder of the rotating spindle 4.

[0025] More specifically, the high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seal 3 is located inside the bearing assembly 9, which can effectively ensure that the cavity in which the flywheel 1 is located is in a sealed state.

[0026] The high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seal 3 is specifically positioned at the shoulder of the rotating spindle 4 and on the outer side of the second spacer 10 to ensure that the vacuum environment within the vacuum chamber is not disrupted. The high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seal 3 utilizes a magnetic field to maintain the magnetohydrodynamic fluid at a specific location to form a dynamic sealing layer, effectively preventing external air or contaminants from entering the system while allowing the rotating spindle 4 to rotate freely without compromising the sealing effect.

[0027] Furthermore, a baffle 7 is provided on one side of the bearing assembly 9 on the left side. The baffle 7 is coaxially arranged with the rotating spindle 4. A left end cover 8 is provided on one side of the baffle 7. A step is provided on the left end cover 8. The groove of the step matches the protrusion of the upper cover 2. The protrusion of the left end cover 8 is closely set against the baffle 7.

[0028] The baffle 7 provides additional support and stability, ensuring that the rotating spindle 4 maintains good concentricity when rotating at high speed, reducing the possibility of eccentric rotation, thereby reducing vibration and wear.

[0029] The left end cover 8 is located on one side of the baffle 7 and has a specific stepped structure. Its groove fits into the protrusion of the upper cover 2, forming a tight connection and ensuring the overall sealing and rigidity of the device. At the same time, the protrusion of the left end cover 8 is set close to the baffle 7, further enhancing the stability and sealing of the system and helping to maintain the internal vacuum environment.

[0030] Furthermore, a sealing plate is provided on one side of the bearing assembly 9 on the right side, and a right sealing side plate is also provided on the outer side of the sealing plate. The protrusion of the right sealing side plate is close to the sealing plate, and its flat end is in contact with the upper cover 2.

[0031] A sealing plate is located on one side of the right-side bearing assembly 9 to enclose and protect the internal components of the bearing assembly 9 from the influence of the external environment. It fits tightly with the bearing assembly 9 to ensure the stability and sealing of the internal structure.

[0032] The right-side sealing plate is located outside the sealing plate, further enhancing the system's sealing performance. The protruding part of the right-side sealing plate is positioned close to the sealing plate, while its flat end directly contacts the upper cover 2, forming multiple sealing barriers. This helps maintain the vacuum environment within the vacuum chamber, preventing outside air or contaminants from entering the system.

[0033] Furthermore, the inner diameter of the bearing assembly 9 on the left end is consistent with the outer diameter of the second spacer 10.

[0034] The inner diameter of the bearing assembly 9 located on the left matches the outer diameter of the second spacer 10. This helps reduce vibration and misalignment, ensuring the smoothness of the flywheel 1 during high-speed rotation and ensuring that the rotating spindle 4 can operate efficiently under low-friction conditions.

[0035] The second spacer 10 is an important component located on one side of the flywheel 1 and in contact with it. The second spacer 10 helps to fix the position of the flywheel 1 and also enhances the stability of the entire system through precise matching with the bearing assembly 9.

[0036] Furthermore, the bearing assembly 9 on the right end is connected to the outside of the rotating spindle 4, and the left end is closely disposed with the high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seal 3.

[0037] Furthermore, a first spacer 5 is provided between the two bearings in the bearing assembly 9.

[0038] The use of the first spacer ring 5 prevents direct contact between adjacent rolling elements, reducing friction and wear between them. This extends the bearing's service life and also lowers the operating temperature.

[0039] During use: Ensure that the rotating spindle 4 and its flywheel 1, first spacer 5, second spacer 10, etc., are accurately installed according to design requirements, without any loosening or misalignment. Verify that the positions of the left baffle 7, left end cover 8, right sealing plate, and right sealing side plate are correct, ensuring they provide the necessary support and sealing performance for the system. Power the motor with an external power source to accelerate the rotating spindle 4. As the rotational speed increases, the flywheel 1 will gradually reach the predetermined speed. During this process, electrical energy is converted into kinetic energy and stored in the flywheel 1. At this stage, due to the use of high-speed magnetohydrodynamic sealing element 3 technology, the system's vacuum level can be maintained even when the flywheel 1 rotates at high speed, reducing the impact of air resistance on efficiency. When the power grid requires additional power support, the control system decelerates the flywheel 1. At this time, the kinetic energy stored in the flywheel 1 is converted into electrical energy and output to the power grid through the generator. Throughout the energy conversion process, the precise cooperation between the components ensures efficient energy transmission. At the same time, the second spacer 10 and the sealing measures on the left and right sides work together to maintain the stability and reliability of the system.

[0040] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of this application, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device, comprising an upper cover (2) and a bearing cover (6), wherein the upper cover (2) and the bearing cover (6) are arranged opposite to each other, and a rotating main shaft (4) is sleeved between the upper cover (2) and the bearing cover (6), the rotating main shaft (4) having a multi-step structure, the flywheel (1) being sleeved at the step with the largest diameter of the rotating main shaft (4), a bearing assembly (9) being provided on the outer side of the rotating main shaft (4), and sealing seats being provided on both sides of the upper cover (2) and the bearing cover (6), characterized in that: A second spacer (10) is fitted on the left side of the step with the largest diameter of the rotating spindle (4). The second spacer (10) is close to one side of the flywheel (1). High-speed magnetic fluid seals (3) are provided on the outer side of the second spacer (10) and at the shoulder of the rotating spindle (4).

2. The vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A baffle (7) is provided on one side of the bearing assembly (9) on the left side. The baffle (7) is coaxially arranged with the rotating spindle (4). A left end cover (8) is provided on one side of the baffle (7). A step is provided on the left end cover (8). The groove of the step matches the protrusion of the upper cover (2). The protrusion of the left end cover (8) is close to the baffle (7).

3. The vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A sealing plate is provided on one side of the bearing assembly (9) on the right side, and a right sealing side plate is also provided on the outside of the sealing plate. The protrusion of the right sealing side plate is close to the sealing plate, and its flat end is in contact with the upper cover (2).

4. The vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner diameter of the bearing assembly (9) on the left end is the same as the outer diameter of the second spacer (10).

5. The vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bearing assembly (9) on the right end is connected to the outside of the rotating spindle (4), and the left end is set close to the high-speed magnetohydrodynamic seal (3).

6. The vacuum chamber high-speed flywheel energy storage device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A first spacer (5) is also provided between the two bearings in the bearing assembly (9).