Compressed gas storage power generation system

Abstract

To secure high power generation efficiency in compressed gas storage power generation equipment.SOLUTION: Compressed gas storage power generation equipment 1 comprises: a compressor 10; a floating body 20; a structure 30; a first liquid flow power generator 40; and second liquid flow power generator 50. The floating body 20 is arranged while floating on liquid, includes a casing 21 defining a first space S1 therein, is movable by the liquid being pushed out from a first space S1 by the compressed gas stored in the first space S1, and movable by the compressed gas being pushed out from the first space S1 by the liquid stored in the first space S1. The structure 30 includes a housing 31 defining a second space S2 therein, in which the liquid is pushed out from the second space when the capacity is reduced by the movement of the floating body 20, and is configured in such a manner that liquid flows from outside into the second space when the capacity increases by the movement of the floating body 20. The first liquid flow power generator 40 generates power by the flow of the liquid pushed out of the first space S1. Thea second liquid flow power generator 50 generates power by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the second space S2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a compressed gas storage power generation device.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a compressed air energy storage (CAES) power generation device that stores high-pressure air in a storage tank using a compressor and generates power with a generator equipped with a turbine or the like by discharging the air when needed. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a CAES power generation device having a floating body that can be used as a storage tank and installed floating on water.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the CAES power generation device of Patent Document 1, the usefulness of the floating body is limited to its use as a storage tank. That is, the kinetic energy that may potentially exist in the floating body cannot be effectively utilized, and there is room for improvement in power generation efficiency.

[0005] [[ID=�9]]An object of the present invention is to ensure high power generation efficiency in a compressed gas storage power generation device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The present invention provides a compressor that sucks in gas and discharges compressed gas, A floating body is configured to float on a liquid and has a casing that defines a first space inside which the compressed gas and the liquid can be stored, wherein the liquid is pushed out of the first space and is movable by the compressed gas stored in the first space, and the compressed gas is pushed out of the first space and is movable as the liquid is stored in the first space, A structure having a housing that defines a second space within which the liquid can be stored and the float is at least partially contained, wherein the volume of the second space that can store the liquid changes in accordance with the movement of the float, the liquid is pushed out of the second space when the volume decreases due to the movement of the float, and the liquid flows into the second space from the outside when the volume increases due to the movement of the float, A first liquid-flow generator that generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the first space, A second liquid-flow generator that generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the second space, The present invention provides a compressed gas storage power generation device equipped with the following features.

[0007] In this configuration, the floating body moves by adding or removing compressed gas to the first space, which can increase or decrease the volume of liquid that can be stored in the second space. In particular, when the volume of liquid that can be stored in the second space decreases, liquid is pushed out of the second space, and this liquid flow can generate electricity in the second liquid-flow generator. Also, when compressed gas is supplied from the compressor to the first space, liquid is pushed out of the first space, and this liquid flow can generate electricity in the first liquid-flow generator. Therefore, in a compressed gas storage power generation device, electricity can be generated not only by using compressed gas but also by the movement of the floating body, thus ensuring high power generation efficiency.

[0008] The first space and the second space may be fluidly connected, and when the compressed gas is supplied from the compressor to the first space, the liquid flows into the second space from the outside, and when the compressed gas is discharged from the first space, the liquid moves from the second space to the first space. The floating body may be configured to move up and down as its buoyancy changes depending on the amount of compressed gas and liquid in the first space.

[0009] With this configuration, the floating body can move up and down by utilizing changes in buoyancy, and the increase or decrease in the volume of the second space accompanying the movement of the floating body can be easily achieved. Therefore, power generation with the second liquid-flow generator can be realized with a simple configuration.

[0010] The first space may include an inner space for storing the compressed gas and the liquid and fluidly connected to the compressor, and an outer space communicating with the inner space for storing the liquid. The casing may include an inner casing defining the inner space and an outer casing defining the outer space. The first liquid-flow generator may generate electricity by the flow of the liquid being pushed out from the outer space.

[0011] In this configuration, when compressed gas is supplied from the compressor to the inner space, the compressed gas pushes the liquid out of the inner space to the outer space, and when the compressed gas is released from the inner space to the outside air, the liquid flows in from the outer space to the inner space. Therefore, both compressed gas and liquid can exist in the inner space, while only liquid can exist in the outer space. Thus, the fluid supplied to the first liquid-flow generator can be limited to liquid (instead of air), and the first liquid-flow generator can be driven efficiently.

[0012] The housing may have a tubular structure. One end of the tubular structure may at least partially house the floating body so that it can move up and down. The other end of the tubular structure may have an outlet through which the liquid is pushed out of the second space and connected to the second liquid flow generator. Furthermore, the gap between the inner surface of one end and the outer surface of the float may be less than or equal to a predetermined size that allows the liquid to flow from one end to the other end as the float moves.

[0013] This configuration makes it easy to realize a system in which the volume of the second space changes in accordance with the vertical movement of the floating body. In particular, by defining the size of the gap, when the floating body moves downward, the liquid can be sufficiently pushed from one end to the other, and the liquid can be sufficiently pushed out from the outlet at the other end. If the gap is large, even if the floating body moves downward, the liquid will escape upward (outside the housing) through the gap, so there is a risk that the liquid will not be able to be pushed from one end to the other.

[0014] The compressed gas storage power generation device may include an elastic membrane that restricts the liquid being pushed out through the gap.

[0015] With this configuration, the elastic membrane can restrict the liquid being pushed out through the gap, thus preventing the liquid from escaping the housing through the gap when the float moves downward. Therefore, when the float moves downward, the liquid can be sufficiently pushed from one end to the other.

[0016] The housing may have an inlet for allowing the liquid to flow into the second space from the outside. The structure may be at least partially submerged in the external liquid such that the inlet is located in the external liquid.

[0017] With this configuration, the second space can be easily filled with external liquid through the inlet.

[0018] The compressed gas storage and power generation device may include an airflow generator that generates electricity using the flow of the compressed gas discharged from the first space.

[0019] With this configuration, even when compressed gas is released from the first space into the outside air to move the floating body, electricity can be generated by the airflow generator using the compressed gas. Therefore, even higher power generation efficiency can be ensured without wasting the energy contained in the compressed gas.

[0020] The compressor may also have a function as an air flow generator and may be configured to generate electricity by the compressed gas flowing backward from the first space.

[0021] According to this configuration, the compressor functions as a so-called combined compression and expansion machine, and electricity can be generated by the compressed gas flowing backward from the first space without providing a separate air flow generator.

Effect of the Invention

[0022] According to the present invention, in a compressed gas storage power generation device, high power generation efficiency can be ensured.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] Schematic configuration diagram of the first state of the CAES power generation device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Schematic configuration diagram of the second state of the CAES power generation device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Schematic configuration diagram of the first state of the CAES power generation device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] Schematic configuration diagram of the second state of the CAES power generation device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] Schematic configuration diagram of the CAES power generation device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6] Schematic configuration diagram of the CAES power generation device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 7] Schematic configuration diagram of the CAES power generation device according to the fifth embodiment.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0025] (First Embodiment)

[0026] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the compressed gas storage power generation device 1 of this embodiment utilizes air. Therefore, hereafter, the compressed gas storage power generation device 1 will also be referred to as the compressed air storage power generation device 1 (CAES power generation device 1). However, the gas used is not limited to air, but can be any gas. Furthermore, the CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment is installed in the sea or a lake and utilizes the water there. In the figures, the water surface is indicated by the symbol WS, the underwater area by the symbol UW, and the surface of the water by the symbol AW. In this embodiment, the form of the CAES power generation device 1 is not limited to that shown, and may utilize liquids other than water.

[0027] The CAES power generation device 1 includes a compressor 10, a floating body 20, a structure 30, a first liquid-flow generator 40, and a second liquid-flow generator 50.

[0028] The compressor 10 is electrically connected to an external power generation facility 2 of the CAES power generation device 1, and is driven by the power supplied from the power generation facility 2, drawing in air and discharging compressed air. The compressor 10 can be of any type. For example, the compressor 10 may be a screw type or a turbo type. Also, the power generation facility 2 may not be an external component but may be part of the CAES power generation device 1.

[0029] In this embodiment, the power generation equipment 2 generates electricity using wind power. Alternatively, the power generation equipment 2 may generate electricity using renewable energy sources such as water temperature differences, tidal power, or solar power.

[0030] The CAES power generator 1 also has a pressure accumulator 11. The pressure accumulator 11 is connected to the compressor 10 via piping 5a. The pressure accumulator 11 stores compressed air compressed by the compressor 10. For example, the pressure accumulator 11 is a metal tank. Note that the pressure accumulator 11 may be omitted if necessary.

[0031] The accumulator tank 11 is connected to the floating body 20 via piping 5b. A valve 6a is provided in piping 5b, and the supply of compressed air from the accumulator tank 11 to the floating body 20 can be allowed or blocked by opening or closing valve 6a. A pipe 5c, which is open to the outside air, branches off from piping 5b. A valve 6b is provided in piping 5c, and the release of compressed air to the outside air can be allowed or blocked by opening or closing valve 6b. The types of valves 6a and 6b are not particularly limited and can be any type, such as electromagnetic or mechanical. The same applies to the other valves described later.

[0032] The floating body 20 is positioned floating on water. The floating body 20 has a casing 21 that defines a first space S1 inside which compressed air and water can be stored. In this embodiment, the first space S1 includes an inner space Si1 which stores compressed air and water and is fluidly connected to the compressor 10, and an outer space So1 which is in communication with the inner space Si1 and stores water. The casing 21 includes an inner casing 22 which defines the inner space Si1 and an outer casing 23 which defines the outer space So1. The inner space Si1 and the outer space So1 are separated by the inner casing 22. The outer space So1 and the second space S2 are separated by the outer casing 23. The inner casing 22 and the outer casing 23 are integrated at the top.

[0033] The floating body 20 is configured to move when compressed air is supplied from the compressor 10 to the first space S1 (specifically the inner space Si1), causing water to be pushed out of the first space S1 (specifically the outer space So1) by the compressed air stored in the first space S1 (specifically the inner space Si1). Furthermore, as will be described later, the floating body 20 is configured to move when compressed air is pushed out of the first space S1 as water is stored in the first space S1. In other words, the floating body 20 is configured to move up and down as its buoyancy changes depending on the amount of compressed air and water in the first space S1 (specifically the inner space Si1). More specifically, when compressed air is supplied to the floating body 20 and water is discharged from the floating body 20 (the apparent specific gravity of the floating body 20 decreases), the buoyancy becomes greater than the weight of the floating body 20. Furthermore, by supplying water to the floating body 20 and expelling air from it (increasing the apparent specific gravity of the floating body 20), the buoyancy is configured to be less than the weight of the floating body 20. Figure 1 shows a state (first state) where a large amount of compressed air is present in the inner space Si1, generating a high buoyancy for the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 is positioned relatively upward. Figure 2 shows a state (second state) where a large amount of water is present in the inner space Si1, generating a low buoyancy for the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 is positioned relatively downward.

[0034] The inner space Si1 is located in the center of the floating body 20. The outer space So1 is located around the inner space Si1. In addition to the aforementioned piping 5b, piping 5d extends from the inner space Si1, connecting to the outer space So1. That is, piping 5d connects the inside and outside of the inner casing 22. A valve 6c is provided in piping 5d, and the movement of water between the inner space Si1 and the outer space So1 can be allowed or blocked by opening and closing the valve 6c. In this embodiment, valve 6c is always open. Therefore, when compressed air is supplied from the compressor 10 to the inner space Si1 via piping 5a and 5b, and the pressure in the inner space Si1 is higher than the pressure in the outer space So1, and valve 6d is open, and water does not flow out via piping 5f (described later), the compressed air can push the water from the inner space Si1 to the outer space So1 via piping 5d. Furthermore, when air is discharged from the inner space Si1 through pipes 5b and 5c, water can flow from the outer space So1 into the inner space Si1 through pipe 5d.

[0035] From the outer space So1, a pipe 5e leading to the first liquid-flow generator 40 and a pipe 5f leading to the second space S2 extend. A valve 6d is provided in the pipe 5e, and the supply of water from the outer space So1 to the first liquid-flow generator 40 can be allowed or blocked by opening or closing the valve 6d. When the valve 6d is open and water is pushed out from the inner space Si1 to the outer space So1, water is pushed out from the outer space So1 through the pipe 5f, that is, water flows toward the first liquid-flow generator 40.

[0036] The first liquid-flow generator 40 generates electricity through the flow of water pushed out from the first space S1 (more specifically, the outer space So1). The first liquid-flow generator 40 can be any type of generator that generates electricity through the flow of water.

[0037] A valve 6e is provided in the piping 5f, and the movement of water between the outer space So1 (first space S1) and the second space S2 can be allowed or blocked by opening and closing the valve 6e. When compressed air is discharged from the inner space Si1 (first space S1) through the piping 5c, water is configured to move from the second space S2 to the outer space So1 and the inner space Si1 (first space S1) through the pipes 5d and 5f. Although the piping 5f and valve 6e are provided below (on the bottom) of the outer casing 23, they may also be provided above (on the top) of the outer casing 23, for example, as long as they connect the outer space So1 (first space S1) and the second space S2. If the piping 5f and valve 6e are provided above (on the top) of the outer casing 23, the floating body 20 is configured to move downward as water flows into the structure 30 from the piping 5f and valve 6e.

[0038] The structure 30 has a housing 31 that defines a second space S2 inside which water can be stored and the floating body 20 can be moved, at least partially. The volume of the second space S2 changes in accordance with the movement of the floating body 20. The structure 30 is configured such that when the volume of the second space S2 decreases due to the movement of the floating body 20, water is pushed out of the second space S2 to the outside. Also, the structure 30 is configured such that when the volume of the second space S2 increases due to the movement of the floating body 20, water flows into the second space S2 from the outside. Here, "outside" refers to a place with water (liquid), such as the sea, lake, or reservoir.

[0039] In this embodiment, the housing 31 constitutes a tubular structure. One end 32 of the tubular structure extends vertically and at least partially houses the floating body 20 so that it can move vertically. The upper end of the one end 32 is open and is generally closed by the floating body 20. In detail, an annular gap d (see Figure 1) is provided between the inner surface of the one end 32 of the housing 31 and the outer surface of the floating body 20. Thus, external water can enter and exit the housing 31 through the gap d. The other end 33 of the tubular structure extends vertically and has an outlet 34 through which water is pushed out from the second space S2.

[0040] A pipe 5g extends from the outlet 34, connecting to the second liquid-flow generator 50. A valve 6f is provided in the pipe 5g, and the opening and closing of the valve 6f allows or blocks the supply of water from the outlet 34 to the second liquid-flow generator 50. When compressed air in the inner space Si1 is released to the outside of the floating body 20 through pipes 5b and 5c, the amount of water inside the floating body 20 increases, and the apparent specific gravity of the floating body 20 increases, causing the buoyancy to become less than the weight of the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 moves downward. Consequently, the volume of the second space S2 decreases, and water is gradually pushed out of the second space S2 through the outlet 34 and pipe 5g, flowing towards the second liquid-flow generator 50. More specifically, as the amount of compressed air inside the floating body 20 decreases, the amount of water increases and the buoyancy of the floating body 20 decreases. As a result, when the floating body 20 moves downward, water is pushed out from the second space S2 through the outlet 34 and the piping 5g, and a sufficient amount of water flows toward the second liquid flow generator 50. Furthermore, the amount of water flowing into the floating body 20 per unit time when the floating body 20 is moving downward is less than the amount of water that the floating body 20 pushes out of the second space S2 per unit time when the floating body 20 is moving downward.

[0041] The second liquid-flow generator 50 generates electricity through the flow of water pushed out from the second space S2 via the piping 5g. The second liquid-flow generator 50 can be any type of generator that generates electricity through the flow of water. The first liquid-flow generator 40 and the second liquid-flow generator 50 may be the same.

[0042] In this embodiment, the gap d (see Figure 1) between the inner surface of one end 32 of the housing 31 and the outer surface of the float 20 is set to a predetermined size or less that allows water to flow from one end 32 to the other end 33 as the float 20 moves. Specifically, the size of the gap d can be set such that the annular flow path area defined by the gap d is less than or equal to the flow path area of ​​the pipe 5g extending from the outlet 34. This allows sufficient water to flow from one end 32 to the other end 33 of the housing 31 as the float 20 moves downward, and sufficient water to be pushed out from the outlet 34 at the other end 33. In other words, when the float 20 moves downward, the float 20 slides roughly against the housing 31. This reduces the amount of water leaking upward through the gap d and allows the pressure inside the pipe 5g to be sufficiently high.

[0043] In this embodiment, the housing 31 has an inlet 35 for allowing water to flow into the second space S2 from the outside (a place with water, such as the sea, lake, or reservoir). The structure 30 is at least partially submerged in water so that the inlet 35 is located in the water. A pipe 5h is attached to the inlet 35. A valve 6g is provided in the pipe 5h, and the opening and closing of the valve 6g allows or blocks the supply of water to the second space S2 from the outside (a place with water, such as the sea, lake, or reservoir).

[0044] In this embodiment, the housing 31 has a projection 31a for limiting downward movement. The projection 31a protrudes upward from the lower inner surface 31b of the housing 31 below the floating body 20, and serves to prevent the floating body 20 from contacting the lower inner surface 31b of the housing 31. However, in Figure 2, the floating body 20 is located downward but is not in contact with the projection 31. This is because a small amount of air remains inside the floating body 20, and a small amount of buoyancy is acting on the floating body 20. Normally, air is supplied to the floating body 20 before all the air inside the floating body 20 is completely discharged. However, even if the air inside the floating body 20 is completely discharged as needed, the downward movement of the floating body 20 is limited by the projection 31a, thus preventing the piping 6e and valve 5f located below the floating body 20 from contacting and being damaged by the lower inner surface 31b of the housing 31.

[0045] The detailed arrangement of each of the above components is not particularly limited. In this embodiment, the power generation equipment 2, compressor 10, pressure accumulator 11, first liquid-flow generator 40, and second liquid-flow generator 50 are located on the water. The floating body 20 and the structure 30 are located at least partially in the water. The floating body 20 is positioned to float so as to be movable, while the structure 30 is fixed in an immovable manner.

[0046] The CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment provides the following effects and advantages.

[0047] When pressure is accumulated in the inner space Si1, valves 6a, 6c, 6d, and 6g are opened, and valves 6b, 6e, and 6f are closed. As a result, compressed air is supplied from the compressor 10 (pressure accumulator 11) to the inner space Si1 via piping 5b. This compressed air pushes water out of the inner space Si1 through piping 5d to the outer space So1, and further pushes water from the outer space So1 through piping 5e to the first liquid-flow generator 40. The first liquid-flow generator 40 generates electricity due to this water flow. At this time, the buoyancy of the floating body 20 increases as the amount of compressed air and water in the floating body 20 increases, causing the floating body 20 to move upward and increasing the volume of the second space S2. At this time, water flows into the second space S2 from the outside (a place with water such as the sea, lake, or reservoir) via the inlet 35, piping 5h, and valve 6g, and the increased volume of the second space S2 is filled with water.

[0048] When pressure is released from the inner space Si1, valves 6b, 6c, 6e, and 6f are opened, and valves 6a, 6d, and 6g are closed. This causes compressed air to be released from the inner space Si1 to the outside of the floating body 20 via pipes 5b and 5c. As the compressed air is released, water flows from the second space S2 to the outer space So1 and the inner space Si1 via pipes 5d and 5f, and water also flows from the second space S2 to the outer space So1 via pipe 5f. In this way, as the amount of compressed air in the floating body 20 decreases and the amount of water increases, the buoyancy of the floating body 20 decreases, and the floating body 20 moves downward. Consequently, the volume of the second space S2 decreases as the floating body 20 pushes water from one end 32 to the other end 33 within the second space S2. At this time, water is pushed from the second space S2 to the second liquid-flow generator 50 via the outlet 34 and pipe 5g. The second liquid-flow generator 50 generates electricity due to this water flow.

[0049] As described above, by adding and removing compressed air and water to the first space S1, the floating body 20 moves, and the volume of water that can be stored in the second space S2 increases or decreases. In particular, when the volume of water that can be stored in the second space S2 decreases, water is pushed out of the second space S2, and this water flow allows the second liquid flow generator 50 to generate electricity. Also, when compressed air is supplied from the compressor 10 to the first space S1, water is pushed out of the first space S1, and this water flow allows the first liquid flow generator 40 to generate electricity, at which time the volume of the second space S2 increases. Therefore, by repeatedly adding and removing compressed air to the first space S1 in this way, the CAES power generation device 1 can not only generate electricity using compressed air but also generate electricity in conjunction with the movement of the floating body 20, thereby ensuring high power generation efficiency.

[0050] Furthermore, the floating body 20 can move up and down by utilizing the change in buoyancy, and the volume of the second space S2 can be easily increased or decreased in accordance with the movement of the floating body 20. Therefore, power generation with the second liquid-flow generator 50 can be achieved with a simple configuration.

[0051] Furthermore, when compressed air is supplied from the compressor 10 to the inner space Si1, the water is pushed out from the inner space Si1 to the outer space So1 by the compressed air, and when the compressed air is released from the inner space Si1 to the outside of the floating body 20, water flows from the second space S2 into the outer space So1 and the inner space Si1. Therefore, compressed air and water may be present in the inner space Si1, while only water may be present in the outer space So1. Thus, the fluid supplied to the first liquid-flow generator 40 can be limited to water (instead of air), and the first liquid-flow generator 40 can be driven efficiently.

[0052] Furthermore, a configuration in which the volume of the second space S2 changes in accordance with the vertical movement of the floating body 20 can be easily realized. In particular, by defining the size of the gap d, when the floating body 20 moves downward, water can be sufficiently pushed from one end 32 to the other end 33, and water can be sufficiently pushed out from the outlet 34 at the other end 33.

[0053] Furthermore, the second space S2 can be easily filled with water from the outside (such as the sea, a lake, or a reservoir) via the inlet 35.

[0054] (Second Embodiment) The CAES power generation device 1 of the second embodiment shown in Figures 3 and 4 has an elastic membrane 36. Except for the part relating to this, it is substantially the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, explanations of the parts shown in the first embodiment may be omitted. In Figure 3, a large amount of compressed air is present in the inner space Si1, generating high buoyancy on the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 is positioned relatively upward (first state). In Figure 4, a large amount of water is present in the inner space Si1, generating low buoyancy on the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 is positioned relatively downward (second state).

[0055] The CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment includes an elastic membrane 36 provided between the upper end of one end 32 of the housing 31 and the upper end of the floating body 20. The elastic membrane 36 is waterproof and expandable, and restricts the water that is pushed out through the gap d. Therefore, the opening portion of one end 32 of the housing 31 is closed by the floating body 20 and the elastic membrane 36, preventing water from leaking out of the one end 32 of the housing 31 to the outside.

[0056] According to the CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment, the elastic membrane 36 can restrict the water being pushed out through the gap d, so that when the floating body 20 moves downward, it is possible to suppress the escape of water from the housing 31 through the gap d. Therefore, when the floating body 20 moves downward, water can be sufficiently pushed from one end 32 to the other end 33.

[0057] (Third embodiment) The CAES power generation device 1 of the third embodiment shown in Figure 5 has an airflow generator 60. Except for the part relating to this, it is substantially the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, explanations of the parts shown in the first embodiment may be omitted. In Figure 5, a large amount of compressed air is present in the inner space Si1, a high buoyancy is generated on the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 is positioned relatively above (first state).

[0058] In the CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment, an airflow generator 60 is provided at the end of a pipe 5c that is open to the outside air. The airflow generator 60 generates electricity using the flow of compressed air discharged from the first space S1 through the pipe 5c. The airflow generator 60 can be any type of generator that generates electricity by expanding compressed gas using the pressure difference between compressed air and the outside (outside air). For example, the airflow generator 60 may generate electricity by rotating an expansion turbine with compressed air.

[0059] According to the CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment, even when compressed air is released from the first space S1 to the outside air in order to move the floating body 20, power can be generated by the airflow generator 60 using the compressed air. Therefore, even higher power generation efficiency can be ensured without wasting the energy contained in the high-pressure air.

[0060] (Fourth Embodiment) In the fourth embodiment of the CAES power generation device 1 shown in Figure 6, the compressor 10 also functions as an airflow generator. Except for this part, it is substantially the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, explanations of parts shown in the first embodiment may be omitted. Figure 6 shows a state (first state) in which a large amount of compressed air is present in the inner space Si1, a high buoyancy is generated on the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 is positioned relatively above.

[0061] In the CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment, the compressor 10 also functions as an airflow generator 60 and is configured to generate electricity using compressed air that flows back from the first space S1. For example, in the case of a screw-type compressor 10, the screw rotor inside the compressor 10 can expand the air by rotating in the opposite direction to the compression, and the motor can also function as a generator. In this embodiment, piping 5c ​​(see Figure 1) and valve 6b (see Figure 1) are not provided.

[0062] According to the CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment, the compressor 10 functions as a so-called compression and expansion dual-purpose machine, and power can be generated by compressed air flowing back from the first space S1 without the need for a separate airflow generator.

[0063] (Fifth embodiment) The CAES power generation device 1 of the fifth embodiment shown in Figure 7 has a water storage tank 51. Except for the part relating to this, it is substantially the same as the first embodiment. Therefore, explanations of the parts shown in the first embodiment may be omitted. Figure 7 shows a state (first state) in which a large amount of compressed air is present in the inner space Si1, a high buoyancy is generated on the floating body 20, and the floating body 20 is positioned relatively upward.

[0064] The CAES power generator 1 of this embodiment has a water storage tank 51 between the outlet 34 and the second liquid-flow generator 50. A valve 6h is provided in the piping 5g downstream of the water storage tank 51. The water storage tank 51 is located above the second liquid-flow generator 50, and by opening the valve 6h, water can be flowed from the water storage tank 51 to the second liquid-flow generator 50 by gravity.

[0065] According to the CAES power generation device 1 of this embodiment, water pushed out from the second space S2 by the movement of the floating body 20 can be stored in the water storage tank 51, so that the valve 6h can be opened at any time and power can be generated by the second liquid flow generator 50.

[0066] Although specific embodiments and variations of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be implemented with various modifications within the scope of this invention. For example, a combination of the contents of individual embodiments may be considered as one embodiment of this invention.

[0067] This disclosure may include the following aspects: (Aspect 1) A compressor that sucks in gas and releases compressed gas, A floating body is configured to float on a liquid and has a casing that defines a first space inside which the compressed gas and the liquid can be stored, wherein the liquid is pushed out of the first space and is movable by the compressed gas stored in the first space, and the compressed gas is pushed out of the first space and is movable as the liquid is stored in the first space, A structure having a housing that defines a second space within which the liquid can be stored and the float is at least partially contained, wherein the volume of the second space that can store the liquid changes in accordance with the movement of the float, the liquid is pushed out of the second space when the volume decreases due to the movement of the float, and the liquid flows into the second space from the outside when the volume increases due to the movement of the float, A first liquid-flow generator that generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the first space, A second liquid-flow generator that generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the second space, The present invention provides a compressed gas storage power generation device equipped with the following features. (Aspect 2) The first space and the second space are fluidically connected, and when the compressed gas is supplied from the compressor to the first space, the liquid flows into the second space from the outside, and when the compressed gas is discharged from the first space, the liquid moves from the second space to the first space. The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 1, wherein the floating body is configured to move up and down as its buoyancy changes depending on the amount of compressed gas and liquid in the first space. (Aspect 3) The first space includes an inner space that stores the compressed gas and the liquid and is fluidly connected to the compressor, and an outer space that communicates with the inner space and stores the liquid. The casing includes an inner casing defining the inner space and an outer casing defining the outer space. The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the first liquid flow generator generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the outer space. (Aspect 4) The housing has a tubular structure, One end of the tubular structure at least partially houses the floating body so that it can move up and down, The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the other end of the tubular structure has an outlet through which the liquid is pushed out from the second space and connected to the second liquid flow generator. (Appendix 5) The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 4, wherein the gap between the inner surface of one end and the outer surface of the floating body is less than or equal to a predetermined size that allows the liquid to flow from one end to the other end as the floating body moves. (Aspect 6) The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 5, further comprising an elastic membrane that restricts the liquid being pushed out from the gap. (Aspect 7) The housing has an inlet for allowing the liquid to flow into the second space from the outside, The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the structure is at least partially submerged in the external liquid such that the inlet is located in the external liquid. (Pattern 8) The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 1 or 2, further comprising an airflow generator that generates electricity using the flow of the compressed gas discharged from the first space. (Aspect 9) The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the compressor also functions as an airflow generator and is configured to generate electricity using the compressed gas that flows back from the first space. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0068] 1. Compressed gas storage power generation system (compressed air storage power generation system) (CAES power generation system) 2. Power generation equipment 5a~5h Piping 6a~6h valve 10 Compressor 11. Accumulator tank 20 Floating bodies 21 Casing 22 Inner casing 23 Outer casing 30 Structure 31 Housing 31a protrusion 31b Lower inner surface 32 One end 33 Other end 34 Outlet 35 Inlet 36 Elastic membrane 40. First Liquid Flow Generator 50. Second Liquid Flow Generator 51 Water storage tank 60 Airflow Generator

Claims

1. A compressor that sucks in gas and releases compressed gas, A floating body is configured to float on a liquid and has a casing that defines a first space inside which the compressed gas and the liquid can be stored, wherein the liquid is pushed out of the first space and is movable by the compressed gas stored in the first space, and the compressed gas is pushed out of the first space and is movable as the liquid is stored in the first space, A structure having a housing that defines a second space within which the liquid can be stored and the float is at least partially contained in a movable manner, wherein the volume of the second space that can store the liquid changes in accordance with the movement of the float, the liquid is pushed out of the second space when the volume decreases due to the movement of the float, and the liquid flows into the second space from the outside when the volume increases due to the movement of the float, A first liquid-flow generator that generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the first space, A second liquid-flow generator that generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the second space, A compressed gas storage power generation device equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The first space and the second space are fluidically connected, and when compressed gas is supplied from the compressor to the first space, the liquid flows into the second space from the outside, and when compressed gas is discharged from the first space, the liquid moves from the second space to the first space. The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the floating body is configured to move up and down as its buoyancy changes depending on the amount of compressed gas and liquid in the first space.

3. The first space includes an inner space that stores the compressed gas and the liquid and is fluidly connected to the compressor, and an outer space that communicates with the inner space and stores the liquid. The casing includes an inner casing defining the inner space and an outer casing defining the outer space. The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first liquid flow generator generates electricity by the flow of the liquid pushed out from the outer space.

4. The housing has a tubular structure, One end of the tubular structure at least partially houses the floating body so that it can move up and down, The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the other end of the tubular structure has an outlet through which the liquid is pushed out from the second space and connected to the second liquid flow generator.

5. The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the gap between the inner surface of one end and the outer surface of the floating body is less than or equal to a predetermined size that allows the liquid to flow from the one end to the other end as the floating body moves.

6. The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising an elastic membrane that restricts the liquid being pushed out from the gap.

7. The housing has an inlet for allowing the liquid to flow into the second space from the outside, The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the structure is at least partially submerged in the external liquid such that the inlet is located in the external liquid.

8. The compressed gas storage power generation apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an airflow generator that generates electricity using the flow of the compressed gas discharged from the first space.

9. The compressed gas storage power generation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the compressor also functions as an airflow generator and is configured to generate electricity using the compressed gas that flows back from the first space.

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