Elevator Magnet Counterweight Power Generation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current energy production methods face challenges such as air pollution, eco-disruption, limited resources, and inefficiencies in electricity production and distribution, particularly relying on natural sources which can be unpredictable and costly.

Innovation Solution

Converting the motion of elevators and conveyor belts into electrical energy by using magnet counterweights that pass through coils, generating electrical current through the interaction of magnetic fields and copper wire coils, allowing for on-site, pollution-free energy production.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If magnet counterweights pass through coils to generate electrical current, then electrical power generation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical power generation efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The magnet counterweight system serves dual functions: it balances the elevator car's weight during normal operation and simultaneously generates electrical power by moving through the coils. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the existing counterweight mechanism productive for power generation without adding separate complex systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses the elevator's own operational motion (the counterweight's necessary movement up and down the shaft) to generate power. The counterweight's self-motion during normal elevator operation drives the power generation process, eliminating the need for external power sources or additional mechanical drive systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If magnet counterweights are used to generate power, then energy independence from natural resources is improved, but installation complexity in existing elevators worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy independenceVSAvoidinstallation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the power generation function into separate modular components: magnet assemblies attached to the counterweight and coil assemblies mounted on the shaft. This segmentation allows for phased installation and maintenance, reducing the overall complexity burden despite the system's sophistication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces intermediate components such as guide rails and mounting brackets that facilitate the integration of magnets and coils into existing elevator structures. These intermediaries simplify the installation process by providing standardized interfaces between the new power generation components and the existing elevator infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

This system enables the generation of 'green' electricity independently of natural resources, reducing environmental impact and energy costs by harnessing the kinetic energy of elevators and conveyor belts, providing a reliable and efficient power source for buildings.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one magnet counterweight moves in a downward direction as the at least one elevator car moves in an upward direction and the at least one magnet counterweight moves in an upward direction as the at least one elevator car moves in a downward direction. The magnet counterweight passes through the at least one coil thereby generating electrical current.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9136749B1Elevator electrical power system
Publication Date: 2015.09.15 CALLIER JOHN M
  • US9136749B1 patent drawing
  • US9136749B1 patent drawing
  • US9136749B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical power system for generating electrical power in a building is provided. The building has an elevator with the elevator having at least one elevator car and the at least one elevator car within an elevator shaft. The electrical power system comprises at least one magnet counterweight connected to the at least one elevator car and at least one coil mounted within the elevator shaft. The at least one magnet counterweight moves in a downward direction as the at least one elevator car moves in an upward direction and the at least one magnet counterweight moves in an upward direction as the at least one elevator car moves in a downward direction. The magnet counterweight passes through the at least one coil thereby generating electrical current.