Spoked capture structure for cylindrical direct air capture devices

Abstract

A spoked capture system with a plurality of capture structure segments. Each capture structure segment may comprise a hub, a rim, a plurality of spokes, and a sorbent. The hub is positioned at a center of the capture structure segment. The rim extends circumferentially around the hub and is radially offset from the hub. The rim may define a capture space from which the capture structure segment is configured to remove carbon dioxide from the ambient air. The spokes extend between the rim and the hub and connect to the rim to the hub. The sorbent covers the capture space and is supported by the rim and the spokes.

Description

SPOKED CAPTURE STRUCTURE FOR CYLINDRICAL DIRECT AIRCAPTURE DEVICESRELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application 63 / 621,089, filed January 15, 2024, titled “Spoked Capture Structure for Cylindrical Direct Air Capture Devices,” the entirety of the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by this reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This document relates to a spoked capture system for carbon capture from ambient air.BACKGROUND

[0003] The need for technologies to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air has been well established. In addition to conservation, reduced-carbon processes, and on-site capture efforts, a significant amount of carbon dioxide will need to be removed from the atmosphere to avoid a looming climate change crisis.

[0004] Capture of carbon dioxide from ambient air at an affordable price could become a critical tool in managing the anthropogenic carbon cycle. Air capture technology would greatly enhance the options for developing the world’s energy infrastructure and would be a major asset in the fight against climate change. Combined with carbon dioxide (CO2) storage technology, air capture of CO2 could compensate for CO2 emissions from any source, without requiring changes to the existing infrastructure and without requiring proximity to the point of emission. Air capture technology makes it possible for existing infrastructures to live out their natural life spans, and it permits the continued use of carbon-based fuels in distributed and mobile applications, for example in the transportation sector. With air capture technology, it is possible to continue the use of liquid hydrocarbon fuels while eliminating their climate impact.

[0005] Nevertheless, these technologies are still new and the early air capture processes require large amounts of energy to operate. Since the carbon dioxide in the ambient air is very dilute, atmospheric CO2 collectors can quickly overrun a tight energy budget for drawing in and processing air in bulk. iSUMMARY

[0006] Aspects of this document relate to a spoked capture system, comprising a plurality of capture structure segments, each capture structure segment comprising a hub positioned at a center of the capture structure segment, a rim extending circumferentially around the hub and radially offset from the hub, the rim defining a capture space of the capture structure segment from which the capture structure segment is configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air, a plurality of spokes each extending between the rim and the hub and connecting the rim to the hub, wherein each of the plurality of spokes comprises a circular cross section, and a sorbent mesh covering the capture space of the capture structure segment, wherein the sorbent mesh is supported by the rim and the plurality of spokes and wherein the sorbent mesh comprises a fabric coupled with a sorbent material, wherein the capture structure segments are coupled together and wherein the plurality of capture structure segments is arranged such that the hubs of the capture structure segments are coaxial.

[0007] Particular embodiments may comprise one or more of the following features. For each capture structure segment of the plurality of capture structure segments, each spoke of the plurality of spokes may be in direct contact with at least two other spokes. The sorbent material may be a moisture swing sorbent material. The sorbent material may be encapsulated within the fabric using a roll-to-roll process.

[0008] Aspects of this document relate to a spoked capture system, comprising a plurality of capture structure segments, each capture structure segment comprising a hub positioned at a center of the capture structure segment, a rim extending circumferentially around the hub and radially offset from the hub, the rim defining a capture space of the capture structure segment from which the capture structure segment is configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air, a plurality of spokes each extending between the rim and the hub and connecting the rim to the hub, and a sorbent extending across the capture space of the capture structure segment, wherein the sorbent is supported by the rim and the plurality of spokes, wherein the capture structure segments are coupled together.

[0009] Particular embodiments may comprise one or more of the following features. Each of the plurality of spokes may comprise a circular cross section. Each of the plurality of capture structure segments may be configured to rotate about the hub. The plurality of capture structure segments may be arranged such that the hubs of the capture structure segments are coaxial. For each capture structure segment of the plurality of capture structure segments, each spoke of the plurality of spokes may be in direct contact with at least twoother spokes. The sorbent may comprise a moisture swing sorbent material. The sorbent may comprise a fabric coupled with a sorbent material and the sorbent material may be encapsulated within the fabric using a roll-to-roll process.

[0010] Aspects of this document relate to a spoked capture system, comprising a hub with a rim extending circumferentially around the hub and radially offset from the hub, a plurality of spokes each extending between the rim and the hub and connecting the rim to the hub, and a sorbent extending between the rim and the hub, wherein the sorbent is supported by the rim and the plurality of spokes, wherein the spoked capture system is configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air.

[0011] Particular embodiments may comprise one or more of the following features. The hub may be positioned at a center of a space defined by the rim. The sorbent may comprise a sorbent material coupled with a fabric. The sorbent material may be encapsulated within the fabric using a roll-to-roll process. The spoked capture system may further comprise a second hub with a second rim extending circumferentially around the second hub and radially offset from the second hub, wherein the hub and the second hub are coaxial. Each of the plurality of spokes may comprise a circular cross section. The spoked capture system may be configured to rotate about the hub. Each of the plurality of spokes may be in direct contact with at least two other spokes. The sorbent may comprise a moisture swing sorbent material.

[0012] The foregoing and other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the DESCRIPTION and DRAWINGS, and from the CLAIMS if any are included.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Implementations will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended and / or included DRAWINGS, where like designations denote like elements.

[0014] FIG. l is a perspective view of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0016] FIG. 3 A is a side view of a spoked capture system with a guide shaft according to some embodiments.

[0017] FIG. 3B is a side view of a spoked capture system with a flexible tether according to some embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a top view of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 5A is a cross section of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 5B is a cross section of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 6A is a top view of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 6B is a top view of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0023] FIG. 7A is a cross section of a spoke of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.

[0024] FIG. 7B is a cross section of a spoke of a spoked capture system according to some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] Detailed aspects and applications of the disclosure are described below in the following drawings and detailed description of the technology. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the specification and the claims be given their plain, ordinary, and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts.

[0026] In the following description, and for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of the disclosure. It will be understood, however, by those skilled in the relevant arts, that embodiments of the technology disclosed herein may be practiced without these specific details. It should be noted that there are many different and alternative configurations, devices and technologies to which the disclosed technologies may be applied. The full scope of the technology disclosed herein is not limited to the examples that are described below.

[0027] The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a step” includes reference to one or more of such steps.

[0028] The word “exemplary,” “example,” or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary” or as an “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any manner. It is to be appreciatedthat a myriad of additional or alternate examples of varying scope could have been presented, but have been omitted for purposes of brevity.

[0029] The term “plurality,” as used herein, means more than one. When a range of values is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. All ranges are inclusive and combinable.

[0030] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprise” and “contain” and variations of the words, for example “comprising” and “comprises,” mean “including but not limited to,” and are not intended to (and do not) exclude other components.

[0031] As required, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are included herein. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limits, but merely as a basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention. The specific examples below will enable the disclosure to be better understood. However, they are given merely by way of guidance and do not imply any limitation.

[0032] The present disclosure may be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying figures and examples, which form a part of this disclosure. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific materials, devices, methods, applications, conditions, or parameters described and / or shown herein, and that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting of the claimed inventions.

[0033] More specifically, this disclosure, its aspects and embodiments, are not limited to the specific material types, components, methods, or other examples disclosed herein. Many additional material types, components, methods, and procedures known in the art are contemplated for use with particular implementations from this disclosure. Accordingly, for example, although particular implementations are disclosed, such implementations and implementing components may comprise any components, models, types, materials, versions, quantities, and / or the like as is known in the art for such systems and implementing components, consistent with the intended operation.

[0034] A promising technology that is well adapted for capturing dilute atmospheric carbon dioxide in an energy efficient manner is direct air capture, or DAC. There exist two types of DAC regarding airflow; active, which uses large fans to bring the CO2 to the sorbents, and passive, which takes advantage of natural air currents like wind. The current capture cost of DAC (500-600 USD / ton CO2) is too expensive, mainly due to operational expenses. Although the distinct costs associated with active capture (e.g., the operation of fans, etc.) are presumably low, the costs are relatively fixed since fan technology has probably reached its technical limit. On the other hand, passive DAC devices can have lower operating expenses but tend to have a larger cross-sectional area than active devices, since they need to expose a larger surface area of sorbent to compensate for the intermittent nature of ambient air flows.

[0035] The combination of a tight operational energy budget and the need to expose a large surface area of sorbent material presents a difficult design challenge. Some of the best sorbent materials do not have desirable mechanical properties, requiring the use of additional support structure to give them form in a way that exposes a sufficiently large surface area. One solution has been to contain solid sorbent materials within loosely woven fabric pouches, permitting the use of sorbents in a manageable granular or beaded form. However, these pouches are difficult to manufacture at the scale needed to have an environmental impact.

[0036] Additionally, the pouches of sorbent material require a support structure to position them in a way that they are exposed to air flows. One example of such a structure is where fabric pouches of sorbent materials are sandwiched between two honeycomb structures that allow air to pass through while also maintaining a disk-like shape. Such sorbent disks can be used in groups and can be moved to different configurations for capture (e.g., spread apart) and release (e.g., close together within a harvest chamber, etc.).

[0037] The regeneration and harvest process tends to be the most energy and resourceintensive part of the DAC capture cycle. One method for reducing the energy cost is moving the capture structure into a smaller, enclosed space so the resources / energy needed for regeneration is reduced. However, the weight and thermal mass of the previously discussed support structure introduces additional energy inefficiencies to the movement and / or regeneration of the sorbent materials. Furthermore, holding sorbent pouches between structures such as the honeycomb disks discussed above places a barrier between at least some of the sorbent and the air flowing past / through the capture structure, reducing the performance of the sorbent.

[0038] Contemplated herein is a spoked capture system for use in cylindrical direct air capture (DAC) devices. A spoked capture system (such as spoked capture systems 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) offers a novel way to present sorbent to ambient air in a cylindrical DAC configuration that minimizes mass and maximizes carbon dioxide capture, according to various embodiments. The spoked capture system 100 comprises a capture structure segment 102 (see FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the spoked capture system 100 comprises a plurality of capture structure segments 102 (see FIG. 2).

[0039] Each capture structure segment 102 has a support structure with a wheel -like architecture. In some embodiments, each capture structure segment 102 is wrapped or covered with a sorbent 104. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 is a sorbent fabric, a sorbent mesh, a sorbent membrane, or another sorbent material configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air. According to various embodiments, the sorbent 104 is a fabric that has a sorbent material encapsulated within it.

[0040] Advantageously, the capture structure segment 102 gives stability and form to the sorbent 104. In some embodiments, each capture structure segment 102 comprises a hub 106, a rim 108, and a plurality of spokes 110, similar to the wheel of a bicycle. Exposing the sorbent 104 to an airflow using lightweight fabric supported by the spokes 110, which may be wire spokes, leads to an increase in air contact surface area and a simultaneous reduction in system weight, thereby reducing the mechanical energy needed to move the sorbent 104 and reducing thermal inputs to the system. This results in an increase in the overall energy efficiency. Additionally, the contemplated design is easier to manufacture at a large scale. Overall, the spoked capture system 100 reduces the capital and operational costs for a critical technology.

[0041] Comparing the spoked capture system 100 with previous designs, like the honeycomb structure described above, illustrates the various advantages provided. Removing the honeycomb increases the surface area of the sorbent 104 that is in contact with ambient air. Previous attempts to utilize sorbent-laden fabric were problematic. Stretching the fabric over a frame until tight initially eliminated the need for a large support like the honeycomb. However, the fabric underwent viscoelastic creep over time and sag, which meant that the segments had to be spaced further apart to allow air to flow through. This had the effect of reducing the sorbent loading per DAC device. The spoked capture system 100 is able to provide ample support to a sorbent 104 without adding the weight and complexity of previous designs, according to various embodiments.

[0042] It should be noted that while this spoked capture system 100 is being discussed in the context of a passive DAC device, other embodiments may be adapted for use in active DAC devices (e.g., mechanically driven air flows, etc.), as well as other capture technologies that employ sorbent materials.

[0043] FIGs. 1-2 illustrate perspective views of non-limiting examples of a spoked capture system 100 for a cylindrical DAC device. As shown, the spoked capture system 100 is made up of a capture structure segment 102 or a plurality of capture structure segments 102. Each capture structure segment 102 may comprise a hub 106, a rim 108, and a plurality of spokes 110 connecting the hub 106 and the rim 108 with a wheel-like architecture. In some embodiments, the hub 106 is positioned at a center of the capture structure segment 102. In some embodiments, the rim 108 extends circumferentially around the hub 106. In some embodiments, the rim 108 extends completely around the hub 106 and, in some embodiments, the rim 108 extends partially around the hub 106. In some embodiments, the rim 108 is radially offset from the hub 106. Thus, in some embodiments, the rim 108 defines a capture space of the capture structure segment 102 from which the capture structure segment 102 is configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air. For example, the capture space may be the space located between the hub 106 and the rim 108. As noted above, each of the plurality of spokes 110 may extend between the rim 108 and the hub 106 and connect the rim 108 to the hub 106.

[0044] In some embodiments, the capture structure segment 102 comprises a sorbent 104 that comprises one or more sorbent materials that reversibly capture CO2 upon exposure. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 is wrapped around the hub 106, the rim 108, and / or the plurality of spokes 110. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 covers the rim 108, the hub 106, and / or the plurality of spokes 110. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 covers the capture space of the capture structure segment 102. The hub 106, the rim 108 and the plurality of spokes 110 give stability and form to the sorbent 104. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 is supported by the rim 108 and the plurality of spokes 110. The sorbent 104 is able to rest on the spokes 110, eliminating the problem of sag while also reducing the weight of the structure, compared with conventional structures in air capture devices. The geometry of the rim 108 and hub 106 will be discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGs. 5 A and 5B.

[0045] The components of the support structure, such as the hub 106, the rim 108, and the plurality of spokes 110, may be composed of a durable and lightweight material, according to various embodiments. In some embodiments, the hub 106, the rim 108, and the plurality ofspokes 110 may be composed of a metal, such as aluminum, an alloy of aluminum, stainless steel, or another rust resistant metal. Such metals allow the capture structure segment 102 to be used in operating conditions that may be hot and humid with oxygen present. In other embodiments, the hub 106, the rim 108, and the plurality of spokes 110 may be composed of a plastic. Examples include, but are not limited to, thermoplastics (e.g., polycarbonate, etc.), thermosets, resins, and reinforced resins (e.g., fiberglass reinforced resin, carbon fiber reinforced resin, etc.). In some embodiments, the hub 106, the rim 108, and the plurality of spokes 110 may be composed of the same material, while in other embodiments they may be composed of different materials.

[0046] In the context of the present description and the claims that follow, a spoke 110 is any structural member that directly connects the rim 108 and the hub 106. In some embodiments, the spokes 110 may be coupled only to the rim 108 and the hub 106, while in other embodiments, they may also be coupled to or in contact with other spokes 110, as will be discussed in the context of FIGs. 6A and 6B, below.

[0047] In some embodiments, the spokes 110 may have a cross section (i.e., the cross section taken perpendicular to the longest dimension of the spoke) that is circular, like the wire spokes of a traditional bicycle wheel, as shown in FIG. 7A. In other embodiments, the spokes 110 may have a cross-section that is not circular, having a lower degree of symmetry with respect to the central axis. As a specific example, in one embodiment, the spokes 110 may each have an elongated cross section, resulting in a blade-like shape, as shown in FIG. 7B. This may be advantageous when these spokes 110 are oriented with respect to the rim such that the hub 106, the rim 108, and the plurality of spokes 110 together resemble a propeller or fan blade. Air flowing over such an arrangement will cause the capture structure segment 102 to rotate about the hub 106 (in embodiments where the hub 106 is configured to allow such movement), increasing the exposure to the air. In embodiments making use of a sorbent 104 comprising a moisture swing sorbent material, the rotation may also facilitate the drying of freshly regenerated sorbent. In still other embodiments, the spokes 110 may have any other cross section known in the art.

[0048] The spokes 110 may be composed of any material that is sufficiently resistant to creep and is able to retain its shape and length for the anticipated lifespan of the spoked capture system 100. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to, metals and thermoplastics. In some embodiments, the spokes 110 are coupled to the rim 108 and the hub 106 in a manner similar to how bicycle spokes are attached. In some embodiments, the spokes 110 may be coupled to the rim 108 and the hub 106 using any other method known inthe art including, but not limited to, adhesive, threading, welding (e.g., traditional welding, thermal welding, etc.), and the like. In some embodiments, the spokes 110 are configured to be under tension to provide additional structural stability to the capture structure segments 102. The spacing between spokes 110 can be modified to account for the weight of the sorbent 104, and an interwoven spoke design can be used to avoid rim warping and provide the maximum strength, as will be discussed below.

[0049] As shown, the sorbent may cover the hub 106, the rim 108, and / or the plurality of spokes 110. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 may be wrapped around the hub 106, the rim 108, and / or the plurality of spokes 110. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 is a sorbent mesh. In the context of the present description and the claims that follow, a sorbent mesh is a fabric or woven material that comprises a sorbent material. The sorbent material may be coupled or otherwise held by the fabric in a variety of ways, such as using an adhesive or as a coating. In some embodiments, the sorbent mesh may comprise a sorbent material that is itself woven.

[0050] In other embodiments, the sorbent 104 may be said to be encapsulated within the fabric. Encapsulation of a material within a fabric mesh involves embedding the material within the interstices or coating it over the fibers of a mesh fabric. The fabric mesh acts as a supportive scaffold or substrate for the sorbent 104. In some embodiments, this encapsulation may be performed as part of a roll-to-roll process, permitting the continuous production of the sorbent mesh, which may greatly facilitate the mass production of the cylindrical DAC device.

[0051] The spoked capture system 100 is agnostic with respect to the type of sorbent. According to various embodiments, the sorbent 104 may be a temperature swing, pressure swing, moisture swing, electro-swing, or any other carbon dioxide sorbent material known in the art, including hybrids and mixtures of sorbent materials. As noted above, the sorbent 104 may be contained or encapsulated within a fabric or a sorbent mesh. As a specific example, in some embodiments the sorbent 104 may be an anionic exchange resin. Examples include, but are not limited to, strong base-exchange resins (e.g., polystyrenes with quaternary ammonium ions attached to the styrene structure, etc.) and weak base exchange resins containing amine (e.g., 1°, 2°, or 3°) functionalities.

[0052] In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 is a moisture swing sorbent, which has a strong affinity to CO2 when it is dry, and loses this affinity when it is wet. In some embodiments, the sorbent 104 is any swing-type sorbent known in the art (e.g., sorbents regenerated by heat, by vacuum extraction, by exposure to another chemical, etc.), so long asthe DAC device also comprises the corresponding regeneration system / media. The sorbent 104 chosen for a particular embodiment may depend upon the anticipated implementation environment (e.g., temperature range, sunlight exposure, proximity to salt water, etc.) and the desired method of regeneration (e.g., readily accessible water may make a moisture swing sorbent more attractive than other materials).

[0053] In some embodiments, where the sorbent 104 comprises a fabric that serves as a substrate for the sorbent material in the sorbent 104, the fabric is a woven material whose weave is loose enough that the sorbent material, which may be encapsulated, is exposed to the air flowing over and through the capture structure segment 102. The fabric itself may be composed of any material known in the art of fabrics that is also compatible with the sorbent material as well as the intended use environment (e.g., direct sunlight, temperature range, etc.). Examples include, but are not limited to, traditional canvas-type materials, polyesters and HDPEs (e.g., materials used in shade sails), and polyamides (e.g., materials used in boat sails).

[0054] According to various embodiments, the spoked capture system 100 contemplated herein is configured for use with a cylindrical DAC device. In some embodiments, the cylindrical DAC device may be oriented with its axis in a vertical direction. A vertical cylindrical architecture is advantageous for passive DAC systems because it is agnostic to wind direction. According to various embodiments, the capture structure segments 102 are coupled to each other. In some embodiments, they are coupled directly to each other. In some embodiments, the capture structure segments 102 are coupled to each other through some other structure or element (e.g., flexible tethers, guide shafts, etc.).

[0055] In some embodiments, the capture structure segments 102 are coupled to each other but able to move, at least to a degree, independent of each other (e.g., a flexible tether 114 as shown in FIG. 3B allows a range of relative movement). In some embodiments, the coupling may constrain at least some of the movement of all capture structure segments 102 in the same manner. For example, in some embodiments, the plurality of capture structure segments 102 is arranged such that the hubs 106 of the capture structure segments 102 are coaxial (e.g., the hubs slide up and down a guide shaft 112 as shown in FIG. 3 A). In some embodiments where the hubs 106 are coaxial and are configured to rotate about the axis, the hubs 106 are configured to rotate independently of each other.

[0056] FIG. 4 is a top view of a non-limiting example of a capture structure segment 102 of a spoked capture system 100 for a DAC device. The sorbent 104 is not shown for clarity. In some embodiments, the rim 108 has a diameter of 0.5 meters. In some embodiments, therim 108 has a diameter of between two and three meters. The rim 108 may also have a diameter between 0.5 meters and 3 meters. In some embodiments, the hub 106 is small. For example, in some embodiments, the hub 106 is limited to only be large enough to permit the attachment of the plurality of spokes 110, and able to endure the resulting forces when wrapped in the sorbent 104. In some embodiments, the hub 106 is larger than needed for said attachments to facilitate another element or functionality of the DAC device. For example, in some embodiments, the hub 106 is hollow and sized to fit a hydraulic cylinder used to raise and lower the spoked capture system 100. In some embodiments, the hub 106 is sized and configured to slide along a guide rail or shaft. In some embodiments, the hub 106 is configured to permit or facilitate the transmission of a regeneration media (e.g., liquid water, steam, electricity, etc.), which may be otherwise limited by the use of a tight regeneration chamber.

[0057] FIGs. 5A and 5B are cross-sectional views of two non-limiting examples of a capture structure segment 102 of a spoked capture system 100, taken along line AA of FIG.4. Various aspects of the architecture of a capture structure segment 102, such as the relative radii of the rim 108 and the hub 106, the thickness of the rim 108 and hub 106 (both relative and absolute), the arrangement of spokes 110 relative to each other, the number of spokes 110, the spacing between spokes 110, and the like, may be chosen or optimized in consideration of the forces that will be exerted on the spoked capture system 100 while in use. This may include the anticipated weight or weight range (e.g., wet vs. dry, etc.) of the sorbent 104, and / or the forces exerted by anticipated environmental conditions (e.g., wind, storms, etc.). For example, for a rim 108 with a diameter of 1.5 meters, each capture structure segment 102 may weigh between two and three kilograms when dry and four and six kilograms when wet, and the hub 106, the rim 108, and the spokes 110 may be configured to support this entire weight range. As discussed above, the rim 108 may have a diameter between 0.5 meters and 3 meters. The capture structure segment 102 may be configured to support a weight of between 0.5 kilograms and 6 kilograms when dry and between 1 kilogram and 12 kilograms when wet.

[0058] In some embodiments, including the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 5 A, the rim 108 and the hub 106 may have the same thickness. In other embodiments, the rim 108 may even be thicker than the hub 106. While a thick rim 108 and the longer spokes 110 increases the overall weight, it may be advantageous in situations where the sorbent 104 is anticipated to be heavy (particularly a water-laden moisture swing sorbent) and will need additional support. Crossing the spokes 110, as shown in FIG. 5 A, can provide additionalstrength, similar to the use of cross braces in construction. A hub 106 with more than a minimal thickness allows the attachment of spokes 110 with a bracing angle that provides greater strength, according to various embodiments. It should be noted that this form of cross bracing may be used in other embodiments where the rim 108 is thinner than the hub 106, to a lesser extent.

[0059] In some embodiments, including the non-limiting example shown in FIG. 5B, the hub 106 may be thicker than the rim 108. In some embodiments, the rim 108 may be made only thick enough that the spokes 110 can be attached, and the rim 108 can withstand the strains of putting the capture structure segments 102 to use. The spokes 110 may attach to the rim 108 in a manner similar to what is used in bicycle wheels. Having a hub 106 that is thicker than the rim 108 may be advantageous in certain embodiments. For example, in embodiments where the spoked capture system 100 is reduced in size and sealed inside a regeneration chamber, the hubs 106 can be stacked while the sorbent 104 of neighboring segments 102 is held separate from each other, permitting the movement of regeneration media and preventing damage to the sorbent 104.

[0060] In some embodiments, the spokes 110 are arranged in a radial manner, not crossing over each other and only connecting to the hub 106 and the rim 108. See, for example, FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the spokes 110 are interwoven in a basket design, similar to what is done in bike wheels. This enhances the strength, but at the cost of slightly longer spokes, which increases the weight.

[0061] FIGs. 6A and 6B show two examples of such an arrangement. FIGs. 6A and 6B are top views of non-limiting examples of capture structure segment 102 of a spoked capture system 100. FIG. 6A shows an embodiment where each spoke 110 crosses, or is in direct contact with, two other spokes. When speaking of bicycle wheels, this is called 2 cross lacing. FIG. 6B shows an embodiment where each spoke 110 crosses four other spokes, which is referred to as 4 cross lacing. Typically, increasing the number of crosses increases the strength of the structure, at the cost of additional weight. The spoke spacing and weaving can be modified to account for the weight of the sorbent 104; an interwoven spoke design can be used to better prevent rim warping and provide additional strength.

[0062] The presently disclosed spoked capture system 100 is configured to provide adequate support for the sorbent 104 to collect carbon dioxide from ambient air while decreasing the thermal load of the system, thus making the spoked capture system 100 more economical and easier to use. In this way, the presently disclosed spoked capture system 100 provides an improved system for carbon capture.

[0063] Many additional implementations are possible. Further implementations are within the CLAIMS.

[0064] It will be understood that implementations of the spoked capture system include but are not limited to the specific components disclosed herein, as virtually any components consistent with the intended operation of various spoked capture systems may be utilized. Accordingly, for example, it should be understood that, while the drawings and accompanying text show and describe particular spoked capture system implementations, any such implementation may comprise any shape, size, style, type, model, version, class, grade, measurement, concentration, material, weight, quantity, and / or the like consistent with the intended operation of spoked capture systems.

[0065] The concepts disclosed herein are not limited to the specific spoked capture systems shown herein. For example, it is specifically contemplated that the components included in particular spoked capture systems may be formed of any of many different types of materials or combinations that can readily be formed into shaped objects and that are consistent with the intended operation of the spoked capture system. For example, the components may be formed of: rubbers (synthetic and / or natural) and / or other like materials; glasses (such as fiberglass), carbon-fiber, aramid-fiber, any combination therefore, and / or other like materials; elastomers and / or other like materials; polymers such as thermoplastics (such as ABS, fluoropolymers, polyacetal, polyamide, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polysulfone, and / or the like, thermosets (such as epoxy, phenolic resin, polyimide, polyurethane, and / or the like), and / or other like materials; plastics and / or other like materials; composites and / or other like materials; metals, such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper, iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel, spring steel, aluminum, and / or other like materials; and / or any combination of the foregoing.

[0066] Furthermore, spoked capture systems may be manufactured separately and then assembled together, or any or all of the components may be manufactured simultaneously and integrally joined with one another. Manufacture of these components separately or simultaneously, as understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, may involve 3-D printing, extrusion, pultrusion, vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resin transfer molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling, reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding, soldering, hardening, riveting, punching, plating, and / or the like. If any of the components are manufactured separately, they may then be coupled or removably coupled with one another in any manner, such as with adhesive, a weld, a fastener, anycombination thereof, and / or the like for example, depending on, among other considerations, the particular material(s) forming the components.

[0067] In places where the description above refers to particular spoked capture system implementations, it should be readily apparent that a number of modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof and that these implementations may be applied to other implementations disclosed or undisclosed. The presently disclosed spoked capture systems are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMSI claim:

1. A spoked capture system, comprising: a plurality of capture structure segments, each capture structure segment comprising: a hub positioned at a center of the capture structure segment; a rim extending circumferentially around the hub and radially offset from the hub, the rim defining a capture space of the capture structure segment from which the capture structure segment is configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air; a plurality of spokes each extending between the rim and the hub and connecting the rim to the hub, wherein each of the plurality of spokes comprises a circular cross section; and a sorbent mesh covering the capture space of the capture structure segment, wherein the sorbent mesh is supported by the rim and the plurality of spokes and wherein the sorbent mesh comprises a fabric coupled with a sorbent material; wherein the capture structure segments are coupled together and wherein the plurality of capture structure segments is arranged such that the hubs of the capture structure segments are coaxial.

2. The spoked capture system of claim 1, wherein, for each capture structure segment of the plurality of capture structure segments, each spoke of the plurality of spokes is in direct contact with at least two other spokes.

3. The spoked capture system of claim 1, wherein the sorbent material is a moisture swing sorbent material.

4. The spoked capture system of claim 1, wherein the sorbent material is encapsulated within the fabric using a roll-to-roll process.

5. A spoked capture system, comprising: a plurality of capture structure segments, each capture structure segment comprising: a hub positioned at a center of the capture structure segment;a rim extending circumferentially around the hub and radially offset from the hub, the rim defining a capture space of the capture structure segment from which the capture structure segment is configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air; a plurality of spokes each extending between the rim and the hub and connecting the rim to the hub; and a sorbent extending across the capture space of the capture structure segment, wherein the sorbent is supported by the rim and the plurality of spokes; wherein the capture structure segments are coupled together.

6. The spoked capture system of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of spokes comprises a circular cross section.

7. The spoked capture system of claim 5, wherein each of the plurality of capture structure segments is configured to rotate about the hub.

8. The spoked capture system of claim 5, wherein the plurality of capture structure segments is arranged such that the hubs of the capture structure segments are coaxial.

9. The spoked capture system of claim 5, wherein, for each capture structure segment of the plurality of capture structure segments, each spoke of the plurality of spokes is in direct contact with at least two other spokes.

10. The spoked capture system of claim 5, wherein the sorbent comprises a moisture swing sorbent material.

11. The spoked capture system of claim 5, wherein the sorbent comprises a fabric coupled with a sorbent material and wherein the sorbent material is encapsulated within the fabric using a roll-to-roll process.

12. A spoked capture system, comprising: a hub with a rim extending circumferentially around the hub and radially offset from the hub;a plurality of spokes each extending between the rim and the hub and connecting the rim to the hub; and a sorbent extending between the rim and the hub, wherein the sorbent is supported by the rim and the plurality of spokes; wherein the spoked capture system is configured to remove carbon dioxide from ambient air.

13. The spoked capture system of claim 12, wherein the hub is positioned at a center of a space defined by the rim.

14. The spoked capture system of claim 12, wherein the sorbent comprises a sorbent material coupled with a fabric.

15. The spoked capture system of claim 14, wherein the sorbent material is encapsulated within the fabric using a roll-to-roll process.

16. The spoked capture system of claim 12, further comprising a second hub with a second rim extending circumferentially around the second hub and radially offset from the second hub, wherein the hub and the second hub are coaxial.

17. The spoked capture system of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of spokes comprises a circular cross section.

18. The spoked capture system of claim 12, wherein the spoked capture system is configured to rotate about the hub.

19. The spoked capture system of claim 12, wherein each of the plurality of spokes is in direct contact with at least two other spokes.

20. The spoked capture system of claim 12, wherein the sorbent comprises a moisture swing sorbent material.

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