Cable Loop Mass Displacement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for vertically displacing heavy masses in deep shafts face challenges such as unsteadiness, potential collisions with shaft walls, and inefficiencies in energy storage and generation, despite advancements in the field.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a drive assembly with bi-directional rotary machines, cable loops, coupling assemblies, and deflecting pulleys that ensure centered displacement, automatic coupling, and efficient energy generation and storage, using friction pulleys and speed reducers to manage mass movement and energy conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If masses are displaced in deep vertical shafts, then energy storage and generation capability is improved, but unsteadiness and potential collisions with shaft walls occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces guide pulleys as intermediary elements that mediate between the cable and the shaft walls. These guide pulleys are positioned along the shaft to guide the cable and prevent direct contact between the mass and the shaft walls, thereby eliminating collisions while maintaining the vertical displacement capability for energy storage and generation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical guidance systems with a cable-loop configuration that uses friction pulleys and guide pulleys to control the mass movement. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical guidance mechanisms while achieving stable displacement through the friction-based control system
2Reliability
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used, then mass attachment is achieved, but coupling and uncoupling operations are time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service coupling mechanisms where the mass and cable assembly automatically couple and uncouple without external intervention. The coupling is achieved through the mass itself engaging with the cable loop configuration, eliminating the need for separate coupling operations and significantly reducing the time required for attachment and detachment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the coupling function into separate components: the cable loop configuration provides the coupling mechanism while the mass provides the engagement feature. This segmentation allows for rapid coupling and uncoupling operations by simply releasing the mass from the cable loop rather than requiring complex mechanical coupling devices
3Reliability
If friction pulleys with high friction coefficient materials are used, then cable slip is prevented, but pulley wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different material properties in different locations: high-friction materials are applied only to the throat portion of the pulley where cable contact occurs, while the rest of the pulley structure uses wear-resistant materials. This localized application of friction materials provides reliable cable grip while minimizing overall pulley wear
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the friction parameter by using adjustable friction pulleys where the friction coefficient can be modified based on operating conditions. This allows optimization between cable grip reliability and pulley wear resistance by adjusting the friction material properties to match the specific application requirements
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides stable, efficient, and automatic vertical displacement of masses, enhancing safety and performance by maintaining clearance from shaft walls and optimizing energy generation and storage, suitable for both energy and mining applications.
Implementation Method 1
preventing the cable from slipping thanks to the adhesion between the extraction cable and the throat or channel of the pulley, which is increased by covering said throat with hard wood or with another material of high friction coefficient
Implementation Method 2
storing potential energy and to generate energy thanks to the vertical displacement of said masses
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for vertically displacing masses, comprising a drive assembly, cable loops consisting of a first and a second portion of cable, wherein each portion of cable comprises coupling assemblies, masses attachable to said coupling assemblies and upper and lower assemblies for deflecting cable loops, displaceable between a first position wherein the first portion of cable is substantially centred in a vertical displacement space, and a second position wherein the second portion of cable is substantially centred in said space. The present invention also relates to methods for vertically displacing masses, which are carried out with the system of the invention.