System for storing compressed air to generate electricity

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a system (100) for storing compressed air to generate electricity. The system (100) includes pumps (102), a compressor assembly (104), and a controller. The compressor assembly (104) includes a venturi (108), a first pipe (110), a separator (112) and containers (114). The controller receives parameters associated with compressed air from first sensors (118) and simultaneously receive a load value from a grid (120). Further, the controller generates a control signal, upon determination that a value of the parameters and the load value exceeds a predefined range and transmit the control signal to valves (124) for controlling a flow of compressed air from the containers (114) towards a generator (122) for generating electricity. The system (100) utilizes surplus renewable energy source to power the pumps (102), thereby optimizing energy utilization and ensuring efficient electricity generation.

Description

SYSTEM FOR STORING COMPRESSED AIR TO GENERATE ELECTRICITYTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to electricity generation systems, and more particularly relates to a system for storing compressed air to generate electricity using surplus renewable energy sources, thereby optimizing energy utilization and ensuring efficient electricity generation.BACKGROUND

[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0003] Compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems have gained significant attention as a promising solution for grid-scale energy storage due to their ability to store large amounts of energy over extended periods. Traditional CAES systems involve compressing air using electrically driven compressors and storing it in underground caverns or tanks. However, the traditional CAES systems face challenges related to storing compressed air such as, geographic constraints, geological suitability, and energy losses during compression and storage.

[0004] In recent years, there has been growing interest in exploring underwater environments for energy storage purposes due to their abundance of available space and potential for minimizing environmental impact. Underwater compressed air storage (UCAS) systems offer unique advantages such as high-pressure containment, natural cooling properties, and reduced land use requirements compared to traditional CAES systems. Existing UCAS systems involve deploying compressed air storage tanks or structures on the seabed, utilizing natural pressure of surrounding seawater to offset the pressure of stored air. However, the existing UCAS systems may face limitations in terms of scalability, installation complexity, structure of storage, and environmental impact on marine ecosystems.

[0005] In addition to addressing storage and environmental concerns, there is a growing interest in integrating energy storage with carbon capture technologies. However, traditional compressed air storage systems focus solely on efficiency and capacity, but fail to enhance sustainability by capturing and utilizing carbon dioxide during operation.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to address at least the above-mentioned drawbacks and any other shortcomings, or at the very least, provide a valuable alternative to the existing methods and systems.OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0007] An object of the present disclosure relates to a system for storing compressed air to generate electricity using surplus renewable energy sources, thereby optimizing energy utilization and ensuring efficient electricity generation.

[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a venturi for air entrainment, thereby enabling isothermal compression of air-fluid mixture.

[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a separator for separating compressed air and compressed fluid, thereby ensuring optimal compressed air storage conditions with minimal energy expenditure.

[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide an open-bottom container for storing compressed air, thereby eliminating a need for complex pressureregulating mechanisms.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system for dynamically adjusting discharge of compressed based on energy demand and grid conditions, thereby reducing energy losses and improving efficiency of the system.

[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system for capturing and retaining carbon dioxide from ambient air or dissolved sources during a compression process, thereby enabling partial or passive carbon sequestration.

[0013] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to incorporate corrosionresistant coatings and cathodic protection module for underwater components, thereby enhancing the durability and operational lifespan of the system.SUMMARY

[0014] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to electricity generating systems, and more particularly relates to a system for storing compressed air to generate electricity using surplus renewable energy sources, thereby optimizing energy utilization and ensuring efficient electricity generation. Further, the system may include a compressor assembly to compress air-fluid mixture and to separate compressed air and compressed fluid. Additionally, the compressed air may be stored in containers submerged in the fluid and may be transmitted to the generator to generate electricity. The system may furtherenable passive carbon capture by retaining carbon dioxide within the compressed air during storage, offering environmental benefits such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

[0015] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to the system for storing compressed air to generate electricity. The system may include one or more pumps configured to pump a fluid. The system may include a compressor assembly fluidically coupled to the one or more pumps to receive the pumped fluid. The compressor assembly may include a venturi configured to entrain ambient air into the fluid received from the one or more pumps to form an air-fluid mixture. The compressor assembly may include a first pipe having a first end and a second end. The first end may be fluidically coupled to the venturi to receive the air-fluid mixture, and the first pipe may be configured to isothermally compress the air-fluid mixture. The compressor assembly may include a separator fluidically coupled to the second end of the first pipe, and the separator may be configured to separate compressed air and compressed fluid from the compressed air-fluid mixture. The compressor assembly may include one or more containers fluidically coupled to the separator through a second pipe, and the one or more containers may be configured to store the compressed air received from the separator.

[0016] In an embodiment, the one or more parameters may include any one or a combination of: pressure of the compressed air, volume of the compressed air, temperature of the compressed air and carbon content in the compressed air.

[0017] In an embodiment, the venturi may include an inlet configured to receive the fluid from the one or more pumps and an outlet fluidically coupled to the first end of the first pipe, and a dimension of the outlet is smaller than a dimension of the inlet. The venturi may include a throat region having a port, located between the inlet and the outlet, the port may be configured to facilitate entry of the ambient air into the fluid, and the throat region may be configured to create a sub-atmospheric pressure zone in the throat region, to facilitate entrainment of the ambient air into the fluid.

[0018] In an embodiment, the separator and each of the one or more containers may be submerged in the fluid at a predefined distance from a surface level of the fluid.

[0019] In an embodiment, the separator may include a first opening configured to receive the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe, a channel to fluidically coupled to the first opening, configured to transfer the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe to the separator and a chamber to collect the separated compressed air. The separator may include a second opening configured to discharge the separated compressed fluid from the separator to the fluid surrounding the separator and a third opening fluidically coupledto a first part of the second pipe, configured to transfer the compressed air to the one or more containers.

[0020] In an embodiment, when the compressed air-fluid mixture flows into the separator through the channel, the compressed air may rise up to the chamber and the compressed fluid may flow towards the second opening to separate the compressed air and the compressed fluid from the compressed air-fluid mixture, and the compressed air may rise up to the chamber based on a buoyant force of the compressed air.

[0021] In an embodiment, the separator may include a vent configured to discharge excess compressed air collected in the chamber based on one or more attributes.

[0022] In an embodiment, a primary end of the third pipe may be fluidically coupled to a first container of the one or more containers, and a secondary end of the third pipe may be fluidically coupled to the generator.

[0023] In an embodiment, each of the one or more containers may include a first orifice fluidically coupled to a second end of the second pipe, configured to receive the compressed air from the separator and a first portion fluidically coupled to the orifice configured to store the compressed air received from the separator. The one or more containers may include a second portion having an aperture, configured to accommodate the fluid surrounding the one or more containers, and the fluid surrounding the one or more containers may flow into the second portion through the aperture. The one or more containers may include a second orifice fluidically coupled to the primary end of each of the plurality of conduits.

[0024] In an embodiment, when the compressed air flows to the first portion of the one or more containers, a volume of the fluid in the second portion of the one or more containers is displaced from the one or more containers through the aperture, and a change in a volume of the compressed air in the first portion is directly proportional to displacement of the fluid from the one or more containers to equally balance the volume of the compressed air in first portion and the volume of the fluid in the second portion.

[0025] In an embodiment, each of the one or more containers may be fluidically coupled with each other through a plurality of conduits.

[0026] In an embodiment, the system may include a controller communicatively coupled to the compressor assembly and the one or more pumps. The controller may be configured to receive one or more parameters associated with the compressed air in the one or more containers from one or more first sensors associated with a third pipe, simultaneously receive a load value from a grid and determine that a value of the one ormore parameters and the load value exceeds a predefined range. Further, the controller may generate a control signal, upon determination that the value of the one or more parameters and the load value exceeds the predefined range and transmit the control signal to one or more valves configured with the third pipe to regulate operation of the one or more valves for controlling a flow of compressed air from the one or more containers towards a generator for generating electricity.

[0027] In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to receive a rate of flow of the fluid from the one or more pumps using one or more second sensors associated with the one or more pumps and determine that the rate of flow of the fluid exceeds a predefined limit. The controller may generate a control signal, upon determination that the rate of flow of the fluid exceeds the predefined limit and transmit the control signal to the one or more pumps to regulate operation of the one or more pumps for controlling the flow of the fluid from the one or more pumps to the first pipe.

[0028] In an embodiment, the controller may be configured to receive a level of the compressed air in the separator using one or more third sensors associated with the separator and determine that the level of the compressed air exceeds a predefined threshold. The controller may generate a signal, upon determination that the level of the compressed air exceeds the predefined threshold and transmit the signal to the one or more overflow valves configured with the separator to regulate operation of the one or more overflow valves for controlling the flow of the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe within the separator. The one or more overflow valves may be fluidically coupled to the separator via a fourth opening in the separator.

[0029] In an embodiment, the compressed air may include entrained carbon dioxide, and the one or more containers may be configured to retain and / or sequester the carbon dioxide during storage of the compressed air.

[0030] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent components.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.The drawings illustrate example embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary view of a system for storing compressed air to generate electricity, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary perspective view of a venturi of the system for storing compressed air, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 1C illustrates a schematic representation of the venturi of the system for storing compressed air, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. ID illustrates an exemplary top view of the venturi of the system for storing compressed air, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. IE illustrates an exemplary view of a separator of the system for storing compressed air, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. IF illustrates an exemplary view of the separator of the system for storing compressed air with multiple pipes, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 1G illustrates an exemplary view of one or more containers of the system for storing compressed air, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of the system for storing compressed air to generate electricity, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such details as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosures as defined by the appended claims.

[0041] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to electricity generating systems, and more particularly relates to a system for storing compressed air to generate electricity using surplus renewable energy sources, thereby optimizing energy utilization and ensuring efficient electricity generation. Further, the system may include a compressor assembly compress air-fluid mixture and to separate compressed air andcompressed fluid. Additionally, the compressed air may be stored in containers submerged in the fluid and may be transmitted to the generator to generate electricity.

[0042] In some embodiments, the system may retain ambient carbon dioxide (CO2) entrained with the compressed air. When stored at a depth under the fluid, CO2 may remain dissolved or pressurized within the system, allowing partial carbon sequestration. The carbon sequestration may contribute to reducing atmospheric carbon and may provide carbon credit incentives in certain jurisdictions.

[0043] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to the system for storing compressed air to generate electricity. The system may include one or more pumps configured to pump a fluid. The system may include a compressor assembly fluidically coupled to the one or more pumps to receive the pumped fluid. The compressor assembly may include a venturi configured to entrain ambient air into the fluid received from the one or more pumps to form an air-fluid mixture. The compressor assembly may include a first pipe having a first end and a second end. The first end may be fluidically coupled to the venturi to receive the air-fluid mixture, and the first pipe may be configured to isothermally compress the air-fluid mixture. The compressor assembly may include a separator fluidically coupled to the second end of the first pipe, and the separator may be configured to separate compressed air and compressed fluid from the compressed air-fluid mixture. The compressor assembly may include one or more containers fluidically coupled to the separator through a second pipe, and the one or more containers may be configured to store the compressed air received from the separator.

[0044] Various embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained in detail with reference to FIGs. 1A to 2.

[0045] FIGs. 1A to 1G illustrate an exemplary view of a system 100 for storing compressed air to generate electricity, a venturi 108, a separator 112 and one or more containers 114, respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Referring to FIGs. 1A to 1G, the system 100 for storing compressed air to generate electricity may include one or more pumps 102 (collectively referred to as pumps 102, hereinafter), a compressor assembly 104, and a controller 202. The pumps 102 may be configured to pump a fluid to the compressor assembly 104. The fluid may correspond to seawater. The pumps 102 may include a power source 106 configured to supply power to the pumps 102. The power source 106 may be electrically connected to the pumps to operate the pumps. The power source 106 may be a renewable energy source, such as solar power, wind power and the like. The system 100 may be configured to utilize surplusenergy from the renewable energy source to generate electricity. In an exemplary embodiment, the system 100 may store the compressed air under the sea and the pumps 102 may be located at offshore of the sea. The pumps 102 may elevate seawater to height above sea level and supply the seawater to the compressor assembly 104. For instance, the pumps 102 may be a high-flow, low-head device operating at minimal pressure differentials, thereby reducing the energy consumption required to elevate seawater and entrain air.

[0047] In an embodiment, the compressor assembly 104 may be fluidically coupled to the pumps 102 configured to receive the pumped fluid. The compressor assembly 104 may include a venturi 108, a first pipe 110, a separator 112 and containers 114. In an embodiment, an outer surface of the venturi 108, the first pipe 110, the separator 112 and the containers 114 may include a cathodic protection module to prevent corrosion by supplying electrons to the outer surface, causing the outer surface to function as a cathode and remain protected from corrosion. Further, the outer surface may include a biofoulingprevention coating to prevent accumulation of organisms such as microorganisms, algae, barnacles, marine organisms and the like on the outer surface.

[0048] In an embodiment, the venturi 108 may be configured to entrain ambient air into the fluid received from the pumps 102 to form an air-fluid mixture. The venturi 108 may include an inlet 136 and an outlet 138. The outlet 138 may have a dimension smaller than the dimension of the inlet 136. For example, the diameter of the inlet 136 may be 12 feet and the diameter of the outlet may be 2 feet. The inlet 136 may be configured to receive the fluid from the pumps 102. Further, the pumped water may enter the venturi 108 through an outlet pipe 166 of each of the pump 102. Further, the venturi 108 may include a throat region 140 located between the inlet 136 and the outlet 138. The throat region 140 may taper towards the outlet 138, with a wider dimension at the inlet 136 and a narrow dimension at the outlet 138. The venturi 108 may work on principle of Venturi effect, where velocity and pressure of the fluid change when flowing through the throat region 140.

[0049] Further, the throat region 140 may include a port configured to facilitate entry of the ambient air into the fluid. The port may facilitate ingress of the ambient air into the fluid flowing in the throat region 140. Additionally, the venturi 108 may include a plurality of air intake tubes 164 (as shown in FIG. 1C and ID) to facilitate air entrainment. Further, the throat region 140 may be configured to create a sub-atmospheric pressure zone in the throat region 140. The sub-atmospheric pressure zone may be created due to change in the pressure and the velocity of the fluid at the throat region 140. The creation of the sub-atmospheric pressure zone may enable entrainment of the ambient air into the fluid in the venturi 108 through the port.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid may enter into the venturi 108 through the inlet 136 at a low pressure and a high velocity. In the throat region 140, the velocity of the fluid may increase and the pressure of the fluid may reduce, creating the sub- atmospheric pressure zone in the throat region 140. The low pressure at the throat region 140 may allow the ambient air to enter through the port due to the venturi effect, and the ambient air may combine with the fluid, forming the air-fluid mixture.

[0051] In an embodiment, the first pipe 110 may be configured to isothermally compress the air-fluid mixture received from the venturi 108. The air-fluid mixture may flow down the first pipe 110 towards the separator 112 due to gravitational forces. Additionally, multiple pipes 110-1, 110-2 ... , 110-N (as shown in FIG. IF) may be provided from the venturi 108 to the separator 112. The air-fluid mixture may be compressed at a constant temperature (i.e., isothermally). Further, the fluid in the compressed air-fluid mixture may act as a heat sink to absorb the heat generated during the compression for maintaining isothermal conditions. The first pipe 110 may include a first end 110-1 and a second end 110-2. The first end 110-1 may be fluidically coupled to the outlet of the venturi 108 to receive the air-fluid mixture. The air-fluid mixture from the venturi 108 may flow down into the first pipe 110 through the outlet 138 of the venturi 108.

[0052] In an embodiment, the separator 112 may be configured to separate compressed air and compressed fluid from the compressed air-fluid mixture. The separator 112 may be submerged in the fluid at a predefined distance of 80 meters to 150 meters from a surface level of the fluid. For instance, the separator 112 may be located under sea at a distance of 80 meters below the sea level. Further, the separator 112 may include a first opening 142, a second opening 148 and a third opening 150. The first opening 142 configured to receive the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe 110. The first opening 142 of the separator 112 may be fluidically coupled to the second end 110-2 of the first pipe 110 to receive the air-fluid mixture. Further, the separator 112 may include a channel 144 fluidically coupled to the first opening 142 to transfer the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe 110 to the separator 112. The channel 144 may be an extended portion of the first pipe 110 protruding inside the separator 112 and the channel 144 may aid in directing the air-fluid mixture downwards in the separator 112. Further, weights 170 such as anchors, ballast weights and the like, may be connected to each of the separator 112 to keep the separator 112 submerged in the fluid.

[0053] Further, when the compressed air-fluid mixture flows into the separator 112 through the channel 144, the compressed air may rise to a chamber 146 inside the separator 112. The compressed air may rise to the chamber 146 based on a buoyant force of the compressed air. As the compressed air-fluid mixture flows down into the separator 112 at a high velocity, the compressed air with higher buoyant force than the compressed fluid may rise upwards within the chamber 146. The compressed air may be collected in the chamber 146. In an embodiment, the controller 202 may receive a level of the compressed air in the separator 112 using third sensors 132 associated with the separator 112 via the receiving module 210 and determine that the level of the compressed air exceeds a predefined threshold via the determining module 212. The controller 202 may generate a signal, upon determination that the level of the compressed air exceeds the predefined threshold via the generating module 214. The controller 202, via the transmitting module 216, may transmit the signal to overflow valves 134 configured in the separator 112 to regulate operation of the overflow valves 134 for controlling the flow of the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe 110 within the separator 112. Further, the overflow valves 134 may be fluidically coupled to the separator 112 via a fourth opening 152 in the separator 112.

[0054] In an embodiment, the separator 112 may include a vent 168 configured to discharge excess compressed air collected in the chamber 146 based on attributes to prevent backflow of the compressed air into the first pipe 110. The attributes may include blockages in the second pipe 116 due to a trapped air pocket in the second pipe 116 or bend in the second pipe 116, changes in pressure of the compressed air, changes in temperature of the compressed air and the like. Further, the compressed fluid may flow from the channel 144 towards the second opening 148 positioned at bottom of the separator 112. The second opening 148 may discharge the mixed compressed fluid from the separator 112 to the fluid surrounding the separator 112. Further, the third opening 150 may be fluidically coupled to a first part 116-1 of a second pipe 116 to transfer the compressed air to the containers 114.

[0055] In an embodiment, the containers 114 may be configured to store the compressed air received from the separator 112. For example, the containers 114 may be submerged in the fluid at the predefined distance of 80 meters to 150 meters from the surface level of the fluid. In an embodiment, each of the containers 114 may be fluidically coupled with each other through conduits 128. A first conduit 128-1 may be fluidically coupled to a first container 114-1 and a second container 114-2. Further, a second conduit 128-2 may be fluidically coupled to the second container 114-2 and a third container 114-3. Further, the weights 170 such as the anchors, the ballast weights and the like, may beconnected to each of the containers 114 to keep the containers 114 submerged at the predefined distance. In an embodiment, an inner surface of the containers 114 may be coated with a corrosion resistant material such as, but not limited to polyurethane coatings, epoxy coatings, Teflon coatings, ceramic coatings and the like.

[0056] In an embodiment, the containers 114 may include a first orifice 154, a second orifice 162, a first portion 156 and a second portion 158. The first orifice 154 may be fluidically coupled to a second end 116-2 of the second pipe 116. The first orifice 154 may be configured to receive the compressed air from the separator 112. Further, the first portion 156 may be fluidically coupled to the first orifice 154. The first portion 156 may be configured to store the compressed air received from the separator 112. Further, the second portion 158 may include an aperture 160 configured to enable flow of the fluid surrounding the containers 114 into the second portion 158. Further, the second portion 158 may be configured to accommodate the fluid surrounding the containers 114. The aperture 160 may be sized so as to permit displacement of the fluid as volume of the compressed air in the containers 114 vary.

[0057] In an embodiment, when the compressed air flows to the first portion 156 of the containers 114, a volume of the fluid in the second portion 158 of the containers 114 may be displaced from the containers 114 through the aperture 160. Further, a change in a volume of the compressed air in the first portion 156 is directly proportional to the displacement of the fluid from the containers 114 to equally balance the volume of the compressed air in first portion 156 and the volume of the fluid in the second portion 158. The containers 114 may maintain an internal air pressure substantially equal to the hydrostatic pressure of the surrounding fluid at the predefined distance.

[0058] In an embodiment, the compressed air may include entrained carbon dioxide (CO2). The containers 114 may be configured to retain and / or sequester the CO2 during the storage of the compressed air in the containers 114. In an alternate embodiment, the CO2 may be retained or sequestered during compression of the compressed air-fluid mixture in the compressor assembly 104. The compressor assembly 104 may capture and retain CO2 from the ambient air during the compression of air-fluid mixture. Further, the CO2 may also be captured from dissolved CO2 in the fluid. The system 100 may promote continued dissolution of CO2 in the compressed fluid, preventing releasing of CO2 into the atmosphere. Additionally, the system 100 may extract and utilize the CO2 captured in the containers 114 for industrial applications or long-term sequestration, providing an opportunity for carbon credit eligibility and environmental benefits.

[0059] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram 200 of the system 100 for storing compressed air to generate electricity, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 2, in an embodiment, a controller 202 may be communicatively connected to the compressor assembly 104 and the pumps 102 via a communication unit (not shown in figures). The controller 202 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and / or any devices that manipulate data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the controller may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory. The memory may store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines, which may be fetched and executed to create or share the data units over a network service. The memory may include any non- transitory storage device including, for example, a volatile memory such as a Random Access Memory (RAM), or a non-volatile memory such as an Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), a flash memory, and the like.

[0061] In an embodiment, the communication unit may be wired communication means, or wireless communication means, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the wired communication means may include, but not limited to, wires, cables, data buses, optical fibre cables, and the like. In some embodiments, the wireless communication means may include, but not be limited to, telecommunication, Near Field Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, Internet, Local Area Networks (LAN), Wide Area Networks (WAN), Light Fidelity (Li-Fi) networks, a carrier network, and the like. In some embodiments, the form factor of the data transmitted through the communication means may be any one or combination of including, but not limited to, analogue signals, electrical signals, digital signals, radio signals, infrared signals, data packets, and the like.

[0062] In an embodiment, the interface(s) 206 may comprise a variety of interfaces, for example, a variety of interfaces, for example, interfaces for data input and output devices, referred to as I / O devices, storage devices, and the like. The interface(s) 206 may facilitate communication of the system 102 with various devices coupled to it. The interface(s) 206 may also provide a communication pathway for one or more components of the system 100. Examples of such components include but are not limited to, processing engine(s) 208.

[0063] In an embodiment, the processing engine(s) 208 may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) toimplement one or more functionalities of the processing engine(s) 208. In examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the processing engine(s) 208 may be processor executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the one or more processor(s) may comprise a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the machine -readable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the processing engine(s) 208. In such examples, the controller 102 may comprise the machine-readable storage medium storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the machine-readable storage medium may be separate but accessible to the controller 102 and the processing resource. In other examples, the processing engine(s) 208 may be implemented by an electronic circuitry.

[0064] Further, the processing engine(s) 208 may include a receiving module 210, a determining module 212, a generating module 214, a transmitting module 216, and other module(s) 218. The other module(s) 218 may implement functionalities that supplement applications / functions performed by the processing engine(s) 208.

[0065] In an embodiment, the controller 202 may be configured to receive a rate of flow of the fluid from the pumps 102 using second sensors 130 associated with the pumps 102 via the receiving module 210. The controller 202 may determine that the rate of flow of the fluid exceeds a predefined limit via the determining module 212. The controller 202 may generate a control signal, upon determination that the rate of flow of the fluid exceeds the predefined limit via the generating module 214. The controller 202 may transmit the control signal to the pumps 102 to regulate operation of the pumps 102 for controlling the flow of the fluid from the pumps 102 to the venturi 108 via the transmitting module 216. For instance, if the rate of flow of fluid is higher than the predefined threshold, the controller 202 may transmit the control signal to the pumps 102 for reducing the flow of the fluid into the venturi 108, preventing overflow of the fluid in the venturi 108.

[0066] In an embodiment, the controller 202, via the receiving module 210, may be configured to receive parameters associated with the compressed air in the containers 114 from first sensors 118 associated with the third pipe 126. The parameters may include any one or a combination of: pressure of the compressed air, volume of the compressed air, temperature of the compressed air and carbon content in the compressed air. Further, the controller 202, via the receiving module 210, may simultaneously receive a load value froma grid 120. Further, the controller 202, via the determining module 212, may determine that a value of the parameters and the load value exceeds a predefined range.

[0067] In an embodiment, the controller 202, via the generating module 214, may generate a control signal, upon determination that the value of the parameters and the load value exceeds the predefined range. Further, the controller 202, via the transmitting module 216, may transmit the control signal to valves 124 configured with a third pipe 126 to regulate operation of the valves 124 for controlling a flow of compressed air from the containers 114 towards a generator 122 for generating electricity. In an exemplary embodiment, in a case of high electricity demand, the controller 202 may determine that the parameters and the load value exceed the predefined threshold. Based on the determination, the compressed air may be selectively released to the generator 122, by operating the valves 124, at times of high electricity demand by the grid 120.

[0068] Further, the second orifice 162 of the first container 114-1 may be fluidically coupled to the primary end 126-1 of the third pipe 126 configured to transfer the compressed air to the generator 122. The third pipe 126 may be configured to transfer compressed air out of the containers 114 to the generator 122 under hydrostatic equilibrium. The primary end 126-1 of the third pipe 126 may be fluidically coupled to the first container 114-1, and a secondary end 126-2 of the third pipe 126 may be fluidically coupled to the generator 122. In an exemplary embodiment, the generator 122 may be located on the offshore of the sea above sea level. The generator 122 may be such as a turbine generator, turbo expander coupled to a generator and the like. The generator 122 may expand the stored compressed air to generate electricity. The generator 122 may convert the compressed air into electricity, which may be utilized for powering the grid 120. After energy extraction, the compressed air may be released back into the atmosphere, completing the cycle of conversion, storage, and utilization.

[0069] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes a system 100 (as shown in FIG. 1) for storing compressed air to generate electricity. By incorporating a compressor assembly 104 (as shown in FIG. 1) and one or more sensors (as shown in FIG. 1), the system 100 ensures optimal compressed air storage conditions with minimal energy expenditure and optimizes energy utilization ensuring efficient electricity generation.

[0070] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments of the present disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the present disclosure is determined by the claims that follow. The present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments,versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the present disclosure when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0071] The present disclosure provides a system for storing compressed air to generate electricity, optimizing energy utilization and ensuring efficient electricity generation.

[0072] The present disclosure enables isothermal compression of air-fluid mixture using a venturi for air entrainment.

[0073] The present disclosure ensures optimal compressed air storage conditions with minimal energy expenditure by a separator for separating compressed air and compressed fluid.

[0074] The present disclosure provides an open-bottom container for storing compressed air, eliminating a need for complex pressure-regulating mechanisms.

[0075] The present disclosure dynamically adjusts discharge of compressed based on energy demand and grid condition.

[0076] The present disclosure provides a system with corrosion-resistant coatings and cathodic protection, extending the operational lifespan of submerged components and minimizing maintenance requirements.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A system (100) for storing compressed air to generate electricity, the system (100) comprising: one or more pumps (102) configured to pump a fluid; a compressor assembly (104) fluidically coupled to the one or more pumps (102) to receive the pumped fluid, the compressor assembly (104) comprising: a venturi (108) configured to entrain ambient air into the fluid received from the one or more pumps (102) to form an air-fluid mixture; a first pipe (110) comprising a first end (110-1) and a second end (110- 2), wherein the first end (110-1) is fluidically coupled to the venturi (108) to receive the air-fluid mixture, and wherein the first pipe (110) is configured to isothermally compress the air-fluid mixture; a separator (112) fluidically coupled to the second end (110-2) of the first pipe (110), wherein the separator (112) is configured to separate compressed air and compressed fluid from the compressed air-fluid mixture; and one or more containers (114) fluidically coupled to the separator (112) through a second pipe (116), wherein the one or more containers (114) are configured to store the compressed air received from the separator (112).

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more parameters comprise any one or a combination of: pressure of the compressed air, volume of the compressed air, temperature of the compressed air, and carbon content in the compressed air.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the venturi (108) comprises: an inlet (136) configured to receive the fluid from the one or more pumps (102); an outlet (138) fluidically coupled to the first end (110-1) of the first pipe (110), wherein a dimension of the outlet (138) is smaller than a dimension of the inlet (136); and a throat region (140) comprising a port, located between the inlet (136) and the outlet (138), wherein the port is configured to facilitate entry of the ambient air into the fluid, and wherein the throat region (140) is configured to create a sub-atmospheric pressure zone in the throat region (140), to facilitate entrainment of the ambient air into the fluid.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the separator (112) and each of the one or more containers (114) are submerged in the fluid at a predefined distance from a surface level of the fluid.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the separator (112) comprises: a first opening (142) configured to receive the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe (110); a channel (144) fluidically coupled to the first opening (142), configured to transfer the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe (110) to the separator (112); a chamber (146) configured to collect the separated compressed air; a second opening (148) configured to discharge the separated compressed fluid from the separator ( 112) to the fluid surrounding the separator (112); and a third opening (150) fluidically coupled to a first part (116-1) of the second pipe (116), configured to transfer the compressed air to the one or more containers (114).

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein when the compressed air-fluid mixture flows into the separator (112) through the channel (144), the compressed air rises up to the chamber (146) and the compressed fluid flows towards the second opening (148) to separate the compressed air and the compressed fluid from the compressed air-fluid mixture, and wherein the compressed air rises up to the chamber (146) based on a buoyant force of the compressed air.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the separator (112) comprises a vent (168) configured to discharge excess compressed air collected in the chamber (146) based on one or more attributes.

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a primary end (126-1) of the third pipe (126) is fluidically coupled to a first container (114-1) of the one or more containers (114), and wherein a secondary end (126-2) of the third pipe (126) is fluidically coupled to the generator (122).

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more containers (114) comprises: a first orifice (154) fluidically coupled to a second end (116-2) of the second pipe (116), configured to receive the compressed air from the separator (112); a first portion (156) fluidically coupled to the first orifice (154) configured to store the compressed air received from the separator (112); a second portion (158) comprising an aperture (160), configured to accommodate the fluid surrounding the one or more containers (114), wherein the fluid surrounding the one or more containers (114) flow into the second portion (158) through the aperture (160); and a second orifice (162) fluidically coupled to the primary end (126-1) of the third pipe (126), configured to transfer the compressed air to the generator (122).

10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 9, wherein when the compressed air flows to the first portion (156) of the one or more containers (114), a volume of the fluid in the second portion (158) of the one or more containers (114) is displaced from the one or more containers (114) through the aperture (160), and wherein a change in a volume of the compressed air in the first portion (156) is directly proportional to displacement of the fluid from the one or more containers (114) to equally balance the volume of the compressed air in the first portion (156) and the volume of the fluid in the second portion (158).

11. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the one or more containers (114) are fluidically coupled with the each other through a plurality of conduits (128- 1, 128-2, 128-N).

12. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a controller (202) communicatively connected to the compressor assembly (104) and the one or more pumps (102), the controller (202) being configured to: receive one or more parameters associated with the compressed air in the one or more containers (114) from one or more first sensors (118) associated with a third pipe (126); simultaneously receive a load value from a grid (120); determine that a value of the one or more parameters and the load value exceeds a predefined range;generate a control signal, upon determination that the value of the one or more parameters and the load value exceeds the predefined range; and transmit the control signal to one or more valves (124) configured with the third pipe (126) to regulate operation of the one or more valves (124) for controlling a flow of compressed air from the one or more containers (114) towards a generator (122) for generating electricity.

13. The system (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the controller (202) is configured to: receive a rate of flow of the fluid from the one or more pumps (102) using one or more second sensors (130) associated with the one or more pumps (102); determine that the rate of flow of the fluid exceeds a predefined limit; generate a control signal, upon determination that the rate of flow of the fluid exceeds the predefined limit; and transmit the control signal to the one or more pumps (102) to regulate operation of the one or more pumps (102) for controlling the flow of the fluid from the one or more pumps (102) to the venturi (108).

14. The system (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the controller (202) is configured to: receive a level of compressed air in the separator (112) using one or more third sensors (132) associated with the separator (112); determine that the level of the compressed air exceeds a predefined threshold; generate a signal, upon determination that the level of the compressed air exceeds the predefined threshold; and transmit the signal to one or more overflow valves (134) configured with the separator (112) to regulate operation of the one or more overflow valves (134) for controlling the flow of the compressed air-fluid mixture from the first pipe (110) within the separator (112), wherein the one or more overflow valves (134) are fluidically coupled to the separator (112) via a fourth opening (152) in the separator (112).

15. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the compressed air comprises entrained carbon dioxide, and wherein the one or more containers (114) is configured to retain and / or sequester the carbon dioxide during the storage of the compressed air.

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