A gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source

Abstract

The present disclosure pertains a gravity-based energy storage system (100) to store electrical energy from an energy source. The system (100) comprises a first platform (102) being configured at a first height. The first platform (102) is configured to receive a plurality of weights (112). The system (100) comprises a second platform (104) being configured at a second height. Further, the system (100) comprises a vertical shaft (106) extending between and connecting the first platform (102) and the second platform (104). The vertical shaft (106) comprises a lifting mechanism (108) to facilitate upward and downward motion of the plurality of weights (112) between the first platform (102) and the second platform (104). The system (100) comprises an energy input unit (110) configured to provide power to the lifting mechanism (108) to raise the plurality of weights (112) to the second height.

Description

A GRAVITY-BASED ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM TO STORE ELECTRICAL ENERGY FROM AN ENERGY SOURCETECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to energy storage systems. In particular, it pertains to a gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source.BACKGROUND

[0002] Electrical energy storage refers to the process of capturing and storing electrical energy for later use. It plays a crucial role in the modem energy landscape, enabling the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind or any other green energy source, improving grid stability, and providing backup power during peak demand periods or during round the clock (RTC) power supply. As renewable energy sources like solar and wind continue to grow, electrical energy storage systems will play a crucial role in balancing the intermittency of these sources and ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply.

[0003] Energy storage using gravity is a concept known as gravitational energy storage or gravity-based energy storage. It involves utilizing the potential energy of elevated objects or masses to store and release energy.

[0004] Certain methods and technologies exist for gravity-based energy storage. One method is pumped hydroelectric storage. The pumped hydroelectric storage is widely used form of the gravity-based energy storage. The method for the pumped hydroelectric storage includes pumping water from a lower reservoir to a higher reservoir during periods of excess electricity. When there is demand of electricity, the water is released back to the lower reservoir, flowing through turbines to generate electricity.

[0005] Another method that exists is an underground gravitational storage. This method includes the potential energy stored in a compressed air. Air is compressed and stored in an underground caverns, and when energy is required, the compressed air is released and expanded through a turbine to generate electricity.

[0006] However, the aforementioned methods have certain limitations such as site constraints, need of suitable geographical features and infrastructure, high-maintenance cost, scalability limitations and relocation constraints. Further, the energy conversion process of the aforementioned methods may not be completely reversible, leading to energy losses.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need in the art to provide a gravity-based energy storage system to store an electrical energy from an energy source using sustainable materials.OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0008] An object of the present disclosure relates, in general, to energy storage systems, and more specifically, relates to a gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source such as renewable energy source or power grid.

[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that can provide multi-directional movement mechanism for a plurality of weights on a first and a second platform, thereby providing more and better space utilization on the first platform and the second platform.

[0010] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that can utilize a pre-existing structure to support a vertical shaft and horizontal platforms without need of excavation or digging work.

[0011] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is flexible with location as there is no need of well, mine or hollow locations to incorporate the system.

[0012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that can use sustainable materials, green or recycled materials as a plurality of weights, thereby improving sustainable carbon footprint

[0013] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is easy to install and can be easily relocated by simply dismantling, transporting and assembling at another site.

[0014] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage system with expected long life of the components due to unique design.

[0015] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage system that works above a ground level.

[0016] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide an energy storage system that can be charged with renewable energy such as solar, wind, other sources, and grid.SUMMARY

[0017] The present disclosure relates, in general, to energy storage systems, and more specifically, relates to a gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source.

[0018] According to an aspect, the present disclosure relates to a gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source. The system comprises a first platform being configured at a first height. The first height is any one of a height at a ground level, a height below the ground level, and a height above the ground level. The first platform is configured to receive a plurality of weights. The system comprises a second platform being configured at a second height. The second height is more elevated than the first height. Further, the system comprises a vertical shaft extending between and connecting the first platform and the second platform. The vertical shaft is configured adjacent to a pre-existing structure. The vertical shaft comprises a lifting mechanism to facilitate upward and downward motion of the plurality of weights between the first platform and the second platform.

[0019] In addition, the system comprises an energy input unit coupled to the lifting mechanism. The energy input unit is configured at a third platform to provide sufficient power from the energy source to the lifting mechanism to raise the plurality of weights to the second height. The plurality of weights store a potential energy responsive to a height difference being covered by the plurality of weights.

[0020] In an aspect, the system may release the stored potential energy by lowering the plurality of weights to the first height, responsive to decrease in a power generation. The released PE may be utilised to run a generator to produce an electricity.

[0021] In an aspect, the first platform may comprise a plurality of first roller conveyors. The plurality of first roller conveyors may be attached to a loading base of the vertical shaft. The plurality of first roller conveyors may be configured in a multi-direction. The plurality of first roller conveyors may transfer the plurality of weights to the loading base.

[0022] In an aspect, the energy input unit may comprise a rope drum. The energy input unit may comprise a rope drum drive coupled to the rope drum. Further, the energy input unit may comprise a variable speed gearbox having a first end and a second end. The first end can be connected to the rope drum drive through a first coupling. The second end may be connected to the rope drum through a second coupling. The rope drum drive may be an electrical machine that may run the rope drum through the variable speed gearbox. During an energy storage, the electrical machine may act as a motor to provide power to lift the plurality of weights thereby storing the potential energy. Further, during release of the stored potential energy, the electrical machine may act as the generator to generate the electricity from the stored potential energy.

[0023] In an aspect, the rope drum may transmit the power produced by the motor to the lifting mechanism to lift the plurality of weights. The lifting mechanism may comprise a lifting rope clamped in flanges provided at ends of the rope drum. The lifting mechanism may comprise a lifting pulley connected to the lifting rope. Further, the lifting mechanism may comprise a lifting hook configured at one end of the lifting rope, the lifting hook may grip the plurality of weights to be lifted from the first platform and the second platform.

[0024] In an aspect, the second platform may comprise a plurality of second roller conveyors configured in the multi-direction. The plurality of second roller conveyors may be configured to move the plurality of weights from the loading base to the second platform. The second platform may comprise a plurality of indexing tables connecting the plurality of second roller conveyors. The plurality of indexing tables may be configured to facilitate precise and controlled rotational positioning of the plurality of weights during movement of the plurality of weights from the second platform.

[0025] In an aspect, the vertical shaft may be made up of a heavy-duty steel with a truss and a cross-bracing provided at pre-defined distances to enhance mechanical strength of the vertical shaft.

[0026] In an aspect, the system may comprise a control unit. The control unit may be configured to control and monitor motion of the plurality of weights, the power generation, and a speed of the lifting pulley.

[0027] In an aspect, the system may comprise guided rails to guide and transfer the plurality of weights from the second platform to the first platform.

[0028] In an aspect, the plurality of weights may be load blocks, the load blocks may be selected from a group comprising solid blocks of alloys having lifting points at four comers, solid blocks for reinforcement concrete having lifting points at four comers and at a centre, and filled blocks having lifting points at the four comers. The filled blocks may be filled of materials selected from any one of sustainable materials and green materials.

[0029] In an aspect, the system may comprise a piezoelectric spring. The piezoelectric spring can be configured at a base plate of the vertical shaft. The piezoelectric spring gets compressed, upon reaching of the plurality of weights near the first platform, and thereby generate additional electrical energy apart from the energy generated by the energy input unit placed on a third platform.

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

[0031] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.

[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates a gravity-based energy storage system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates a roller conveyor of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 3A-3C illustrate various embodiments of a plurality of weights of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 4 illustrates a loading base of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 5 illustrates a vertical shaft of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 6 illustrates a third platform of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 7 illustrates a second platform of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.

[0040] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] The present disclosure relates, in general, to energy storage systems, and more specifically, relates to a gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source.

[0042] The present disclosure relates to a gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source. The system includes a first platform being configured at a first height. The first platform is configured to receive a plurality of weights placed by a user. The plurality of weights can be load blocks. The load blocks can be solid blocks of stone or can be made up of filled concrete, stone, dry stand, wet sand, or any denser material. The plurality of weights are easy to handle than a single heavy block. The system includes a second platform being configured at a second height. The second height is more elevated than the first height. Further, the system includes a vertical shaft extending between and connecting the first platform and the second platform. The vertical shaft is configured adjacent to a pre-existing structure. The vertical shaft includes a lifting mechanism to facilitate upward and downward motion of the plurality of weights between the first platform and the second platform.

[0043] In addition, the system includes an energy input unit coupled to the lifting mechanism. The energy input unit is charged through the energy source. The energy input unit is configured at a third platform to provide sufficient power from the energy source to the lifting mechanism to raise the plurality of weights to the second height. The plurality of weights store a potential energy (PE) for long durations or short durations, responsive to a height difference being covered by the plurality of weights.

[0044] The proposed storage system can be designed to be flexible and scalability. The proposed system can be scaled up or down as per requirements and depending on strength of the pre-existing structure.

[0045] The proposed storage system can be easily attached to a building directly or near the load and on-site stored energy is available which can be available 24*7. Further, the energy can also be transmitted through power transmission lines.

[0046] The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates a gravity-based energy storage system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 1, the proposed system 100 includes a first platform 102 being configured at a first height (also referred to as a lower height). The first height may be any one of a height at ground level, a height below the ground level, and a height above theground level. The first platform 102 can include a plurality of first roller conveyors 200 configured in a multi-direction. The plurality of first roller conveyors 200 can receive a plurality of weights 112 placed by a user. The system 100 includes a second platform 104 being configured at a second height (also referred to as an upper height). The second height is more elevated than the first height. The system 100 includes a vertical shaft 106 (also referred to as vertical load lifting structure) extending between and connecting the first platform 102 and the second platform 104. The vertical shaft 106 is configured adjacent to a pre-existing structure. The pre-existing structure can be natural or man-made structure such as, without limitations, cliffs, buildings, high-rise towers, tall structures and the like. The pre-existing structure can be utilized to provide additional space to place the plurality of weights, and provide support to the proposed system 100. The vertical shaft 106 can be made using steel and concrete columns with horizontal beams and a cross-bracing to ensure mechanical stability. The vertical shaft 106 includes a lifting mechanism 108 to facilitate upward and downward motion of the plurality of weights 112 between the first platform 102 and the second platform 104.

[0049] In an embodiment, the system 100 includes an energy input unit 110 coupled to the lifting mechanism 108. The energy input unit 110 can be configured at a third platform 114 to provide sufficient power from the energy source to the lifting mechanism 108 to lift the plurality of weights 112 to the second height. The plurality of weights 112 store a potential energy (PE) for long durations or short durations, responsive to a height difference being covered by the plurality of weights 112.

[0050] In an embodiment, the plurality of weights 112 stored at the second platform 104 can be dropped through the lifting mechanism 108 by releasing a lifting rope 610, at a constant speed by using the gravity pull and therefore convert the potential energy into a kinetic energy that can be further utilized to run a generator 606 through which electricity can be produced.

[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates a roller conveyor of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, one of the plurality of roller conveyors 200 is shown. The roller conveyor 200 can be fabricated with an Indian Standard Medium Weight Channel (ISMC) frame 202 and rollers 204 with an in-built shaft and heavy-duty bearings 206. The rollers 204 can be made of but not limited to a heavy-duty steel, a high-density material, an alloy material and the like. The rollers 204 can be driven by an interlinked roller-chain mechanism 208 in conjunction with a controlled servomotor and a gearbox 210. When amotor 606 of the energy input unit 110 is powered, the motor 606 can drive the roller-chain mechanism 208 and subsequently the rollers are rotated in accordance with a required direction. The plurality of weights 112 can be placed on the rollers 204. In an exemplary embodiment, each weight of the plurality of weights 112 can have contact with 5 to 8 rollers 204 of diameter ranging from 100 mm to 150 mm with a length ranging from 1000 mm to 1200 mm. Further, in an exemplary embodiment, total length of the roller conveyor 200 can be 3600 mm, where three weights 112 can be placed at a time.

[0053] In an embodiment, movement of the plurality of weights 112 over the plurality of roller conveyors 200 can be controlled by the servomotor and the roller-chain mechanism 208.

[0054] FIG. 3A-3C illustrate various embodiments of a plurality of weights of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 3A-3C, various embodiments of the plurality of weights 112 are shown. The plurality of weights 112 can include load blocks. The load blocks can be solid blocks 300A of steel or alloys (as shown in FIG. 3A). In some embodiments, the load blocks can be solid blocks 300B for reinforcement concrete (as shown in FIG. 3B). The solid blocks can have lifting points 302 at four comers and at a centre. Further, in one or more embodiments, the load blocks can be filled blocks 300C (as shown in FIG. 3C) having the lifting points 302 at the four comers. The proposed constmction of the filled blocks 300C can facilitate access to open from sides to stuff-in sustainable materials such as but not limited to a green cement, recycled materials, a constmction waste, green materials, natural materials including but not limited to stones, boulders and other materials.

[0056] FIG. 4 illustrates a loading base of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Referring FIG. 4, the loading base 400 is provided in the vertical shaft 106. The loading base 400 can be constmcted with a C-channel 408, and cross-connected with angles. All four comers of the loading base 400 can be jointed with a welding to withstand the load. The loading base 400 can include a load gusset plate that can be provided to strengthen a base frame 402 of the loading base. A heavy duty thick base plate 412 can be mounted on the base frame 402 with support of flexible hinged joints. A bottom of the thick base plate 412 can be supported by a heavy duty spring in combination with piezoelectric springs 406. Further, guide lines can be provided at the four comers to facilitate smooth entry and exit of the plurality of weights 112. The whole operation is operated by sensors 404 for safety purpose. When the plurality of weights 112 can be dropped down on the base plate 412 while releasingthe stored potential energy. Due to compression, the piezoelectric springs 406 connected to the base plate 412 also get compressed and thereby generate some electrical energy in addition to the energy generated by the generated of the energy input unit 110 placed on a third platform 114. The loading base 400 can be erected on pile columns 410 which can be designed in a shape selected from but not limited to a circular, a square, a rectangular and the like. More preferably, the loading base 400 can be erected on the pile columns 410 which can be designed in the circular shape.

[0058] FIG. 5 illustrates a vertical shaft of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 5, a vertical shaft 106 (also referred to as a vertical load lifting structure) can provide a vertical path for movement of the plurality of weights 112 from the lower platform 102 to the upper platform 104. The vertical load lifting structure 106 can be made up of heavy-duty steel with a truss 502 and a cross bracing provided at a pre-defined distances which cannot bend. The cross bracing cannot be bended because each side experiences one force at a time therefore providing mechanical strength. The vertical load lifting structure 106 has ability to withstand all external loads such as but not limited to wind loads, dead loads, and vibrations. Guide plates are provide at inside of four comers of the vertical load lifting structure 106 to prevent wear and tear of the vertical load lifting structure 106 during an upward and a downward motion of the plurality of weights 112. Sensors can also be incorporated at one or more places in the vertical load lifting structure 106 to monitor movement / motion of each of the plurality of weights 112 and provide caution signal to the control unit. The vertical lifting structure 106 can be made with welded and riveted joints 504.

[0060] Further, a bottom of the vertical lifting structure 106 can be provided with a collapsible gate to prevent manual hazards, and with an indication lamp having a siren to caution an operator / user while the system is in process.

[0061] FIG. 6 illustrates a third platform of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 6, a third platform 114 (is also referred as energy conversion platform) is shown. The third platform 114 can include an energy input unit 110 coupled to the lifting mechanism 108. The third platform 114 can be constructed with channels and cross-rib angles provided on the channels. The third platform 114 can include a gauge checker plate that are welded and a handrails are fixed to the ends of the third platform 114 to provide safe human movement and do external activities such as but not limited toinstallation and maintenance of power conversion system components. The energy input unit 110 can be charged through the energy source such as but not limited to renewable source and non-renewable source.

[0063] In an embodiment, the energy input unit 110 includes a rope drum 602. The energy input unit 110 includes a rope drum drive 606 coupled to the rope drum 602. Further, the energy input unit 110 can include a variable speed gearbox 604 having a first end and a second end. The first end can be connected to the rope drum drive 606 through a first coupling 608-1 and the second end can be connected to the rope drum 602 through a second coupling 608-2. In an embodiment, the rope drum drive 606 can be an electrical machine that runs the rope drum 602 through the variable speed gearbox. The electrical machine can be selected from but not limited to a direct current (DC) machine, an alternate current (AC) machine, a motor, a generator, a transformer, a synchronous machine, and the like. More preferably, the electrical machine can be the DC machine. During an energy storage, the DC machine acts as the motor 606 to provide power to lift the plurality of weights 112 thereby storing the potential energy. Further, during release of the stored potential energy (PE), the DC machine acts as the generator 606 to generate the electricity from the stored potential energy. The output of the generator 606 can be connected to a convertor. The convertor can convert the DC to an alternate current (AC) as per requirement of the user. The motor 606 can be constructed in a manner that the motor 606 is having capabilities of taking external vibration transferred from the rope drum 602 and the variable speed gearbox 604. The motor 606 can be firmly fixed on the base frame and provided with proper earthing. Further, an input and an output of the energy input unit 110 can be monitored using a computer-based programming. The computer-based programs can be selected from but not limited to Artificial Intelligent-based programming, neural network programming, Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCAD A) programming and the like. In another embodiments, Further, the first coupling 608-1 and the second coupling 608-2 are configured to connect two shafts at ends to transmit the power, allow a permissible degree of misalignment in the shaft and prevents energy loss while transferring the power (rotary motion). The first coupling 608-1 and the second coupling 608-2 can run at lower speed or at higher speed as per the variable speed gearbox 604 input. The first coupling 608-1 and the second coupling 608-2 can take high shearing and twisting loads in operation.

[0064] In an embodiment, the rope drum 602 can be made up of material selected from but not limited to a cast steel, a rolled steel, and the like. The rope drum 602 can be used to transmit the power through the lifting rope 610 for lifting the plurality of weights 112 withoutslipping the lifting rope 610 while winding and unwinding. The rope drum 602 can be firmly held at ends with bearing housings. One end of a drive shaft of the motor 606 can be coupled with the variable speed gearbox 604. The variable speed gearbox 604 having a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the rope drum drive 606 through a first coupling 608-1 and the second end is connected to the rope drum 602 through a second coupling 608- 2. Further, ends of the rope drum 602 can be provided with flanges and have provision to clamp one end of the lifting rope 610. A cylindrical portion of the rope drum 602 can have knurling for the lifting ripe 610 to wind and unwind.

[0065] In an embodiment, the variable speed gearbox 604 can be made up of cast iron with bearing mountings for gears. The variable speed gearbox 604 can include an input and an output. The variable speed gearbox 604 can be firmly fixed on the base frame and provided with a temperature sensor and an oil level gauge.

[0066] In an embodiment, the lifting rope 610 can be made up of high-tensile steel wire twisted or braided together to form a rope with required number of strings to withstand heavy loads / weights 112. Both ends of the lifting rope 610 are connected to a lifting pulley 612. Further, the ends of the lifting rope 610 are connected to a lifting hook 614. The lifting hook 614 can be made up of high-tensile alloy steel and is designed to lift and hold the plurality of weights 112 that have to be transferred from the first platform 102 to the second platform 104. The lifting hook 614 can be of a curved shape. The curved shape can allow the lifting hook 614 to cradle or grip the weight securely, preventing the weight from slipping during lifting operations. The lifting hook 614 can include a safety latch to prevent slippage of the lifting rope 610.

[0067] In an embodiment, the system 100 can include a staircase 618 configured to connect the second platform 104 to the third platform 114 and facilitate human access. Further, the staircase 618 can include a handrail for safety purpose. The staircase 618 can be constructed with a mild steel checker plate to withstand loads and vibrations. The staircase 618 can be used during operation and maintenance of the energy input unit 110 configured at the third platform 114.

[0068] Further, the system 100 can include guided rails 616 to guide the plurality of weights 112 from the second platform 104 to the vertical shaft 106. The guided rails 616 can be made up of soft material to provide less friction to the weight, while loading or unloading the plurality of weights 112 from the second platform 104 to the first platform 102. The guided rails 616 can act as a guide to the plurality of weights 112 to travel in guided path .i.e. along the vertical shaft 106.

[0069] FIG. 7 illustrates a second platform of the proposed system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 7, the second platform 104 can include a plurality of second roller conveyors 702 and a plurality of indexing tables 704. The plurality of indexing tables 704 can be configured to facilitate precise and controlled rotational positioning of the plurality of weights 112 during movement of the plurality of weights 112 from the second platform 104. The fundamental working principle of the indexing table 704 lies in its ability to incrementally rotate the weight to specific angular positions. Further, the function of the indexing table 704 is to supply the plurality of weights 112 from one second roller conveyor 702 to the other by providing direction of movement to the plurality of loads. The plurality of indexing tables 704 can include a rotary and worm gear mechanism. The rotary and worm gear mechanism can include a worm gear engaged to a spur gear to give the required angular turn, and it is controlled by a sensor-based drive mechanism.

[0071] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the system 100 of the disclosure may be provided using some or all of the mentioned features and components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0072] The present invention provides a gravity-based energy storage system to store electrical energy from an energy source such as renewable energy source or non-renewable energy source including power grid and other sources.

[0073] The present invention provides a system that provides multi-directional movement mechanism for a plurality of weights on a first and a second platform, thereby providing more and better space utilization on the first platform and the second platform.

[0074] The present invention provides a system that utilizes a pre-existing structure to support a vertical shaft and horizontal platforms without need of excavation or digging work.

[0075] The present invention is a system that is flexible with location as there is no need of well, mine or hollow locations to incorporate the system.

[0076] The present invention provides a system that works using sustainable materials, green or recycled materials as a plurality of weights, thereby improving sustainable carbon footprint.

[0077] The present invention provides a system that is easy to install and can be easily relocated by simply dismantling, transporting and assembling at another site.

[0078] The present invention provides an energy storage system with expected long life of the components due to unique design.

[0079] The present invention provides an energy storage system that works above a ground level.

[0080] The present invention provides an energy storage system that can be charged with renewable energy such as solar, wind, other sources, and grid.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A gravity -based energy storage system (100) to store electrical energy from an energy source, the system (100) comprising: a first platform (102) being configured at a first height, the first platform (102) is configured to receive a plurality of weights (112), the first height is any one of a height at a ground level, a height below the ground level, and a height above the ground level; a second platform (104) being configured at a second height, the second height is more elevated than the first height; a vertical shaft (106) extending between and connecting the first platform (102) and the second platform (104), wherein the vertical shaft (106) is configured adjacent to a preexisting structure, and the vertical shaft (106) comprises a lifting mechanism (108) to facilitate upward and downward motion of the plurality of weights (112) between the first platform (102) and the second platform (104); and an energy input unit (110) coupled to the lifting mechanism (108), the energy input unit (110) is charged through the energy source, wherein the energy input unit (110) is configured at a third platform (114) to provide sufficient power from the energy source to the lifting mechanism (108) to raise the plurality of weights (112) to the second height, wherein the plurality of weights (112) store a potential energy for long durations or short durations, responsive to a height difference being covered by the plurality of weights (112).

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system releases the stored potential energy by lowering the plurality of weights (112) to the first height, responsive to decrease in a power generation, wherein the released potential energy is utilised to run a generator (606) to produce an electricity.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first platform (102) comprises a plurality of first roller conveyors (200) attached to a loading base of the vertical shaft (106) and configured in a multi-direction, the plurality of first roller conveyors (200) transfers the plurality of weights (112) to the loading base.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the energy input unit (110) comprises: a rope drum (602); a rope drum drive (606) coupled to the rope drum (602); a variable speed gearbox having a first end and a second end, the first end is connected to the rope drum drive (606) through a first coupling (608-1) and the second end is connected to the rope drum (602) through a second coupling (608-2),wherein the rope drum drive (606) is an electrical machine that runs the rope drum (602) through the variable speed gearbox, wherein during an energy storage, the electrical machine acts as a motor (606) to provide power to lift the plurality of weights (112) thereby storing the potential energy, wherein during release of the stored potential energy, the electrical machine acts as the generator (606) to generate the electricity from the stored potential energy.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the rope drum (602) transmits the power produced by the motor (606) to the lifting mechanism (108) to lift the plurality of weights (112), wherein the lifting mechanism (108) comprises: a lifting rope (610) clamped in flanges provided at ends of the rope drum (602); a lifting pulley (612) connected to the lifting rope (610); a lifting hook (614) configured at one end of the lifting rope (610), the lifting hook (614) grips the plurality of weights (112) to be lifted from the first platform (102) and the second platform (104).

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second platform (104) comprises: a plurality of second roller conveyors (702) configured in the multi -direction to move the plurality of weights (112) from the loading base to the second platform (104); and a plurality of indexing tables (704) connecting the plurality of second roller conveyors (702), the plurality of indexing tables (704) are configured to facilitate precise and controlled rotational positioning of the plurality of weights (112) during movement of the plurality of weights (112) from the second platform (104).

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the vertical shaft (106) is made up of a heavy-duty steel with a truss (502) and a cross-bracing provided at pre-defined distances from an existing structure to enhance mechanical strength of the vertical shaft (106).

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a control unit configured to control and monitor motion of the plurality of weights (112), the power generation, and a speed of the lifting pulley (612).

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises guided rails (616) to guide and transfer the plurality of weights (112) from the second platform (104) to the first platform (102).

10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of weights (112) are load blocks (300A, 300B, 300C) the load blocks are selected from a group comprising of solid blocks of alloys having lifting points (302) at four comers, solid blocks for reinforcementconcrete having lifting points (302) at four comers and at a centre, and filled blocks having lifting points (302) at the four comers, wherein the filled blocks are filled of materials selected from any one of sustainable materials and green materials.

11. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a piezoelectric spring (406) configured at a base plate (412) of the vertical shaft (106), the piezoelectric spring (406) gets compressed, upon reaching of the plurality of weights near the first platform (102), and thereby generate additional electrical energy apart from the energy generated by the energy input unit (110) placed on a third platform (114).

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