Flywheel Energy Storage Module with DC Voltage Intermediate Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy storage systems, such as batteries and pumped storage plants, are not well-suited for stabilizing local power grids and providing control energy for non-local power supply systems due to capacity limitations, maintenance intensity, environmental risks, and inefficiencies, and lack the ability to adapt to varying demand.
Innovation Solution
An energy storage module using flywheel storage units connected in parallel through a DC voltage intermediate circuit, with a control system that maintains constant DC voltage and a module control unit to manage energy flow, allowing for scalable capacity and efficient operation across both local and non-local power grids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If battery storage systems are used for grid stabilization, then energy storage capacity is provided, but maintenance intensity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system is divided into multiple independent flywheel modules, each capable of operating autonomously. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability even when individual modules require maintenance or fail, as other modules continue to provide energy storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces chemical energy storage (batteries) with mechanical energy storage (flywheels). Flywheels store energy kinetically through rotation, eliminating the need for chemical reactions and associated maintenance issues such as degradation, temperature management, and safety concerns related to chemical substances.
2Quantity of substance
If centralized energy storage is implemented, then large capacity is achieved, but adaptability to local and non-local grids decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines centralized control with decentralized modular units. Each flywheel module can independently interface with different grid configurations, allowing the same system to adapt to various local and non-local grid requirements while maintaining overall large capacity through aggregation of multiple modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The flywheel energy storage modules are designed with universal interfaces and control capabilities that enable them to operate in different grid configurations (local distribution networks and non-local transmission systems). The modular design allows the same hardware to serve multiple functions and adapt to varying grid requirements.
3Reliability
If decentralized energy storage is used, then local grid stabilization is improved, but capacity for non-local power supply decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges decentralized flywheel modules into a coordinated networked system. Individual modules provide local grid stabilization through their inertial support and frequency regulation capabilities, while the aggregated capacity of multiple modules collectively provides sufficient energy storage for non-local power supply requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the energy storage function into distributed flywheel units that can simultaneously serve local stabilization needs while contributing to overall system capacity. Each module operates independently for local response while the collective provides aggregated capacity for broader grid support.
4Productivity
If pumped storage plants operate at full load, then energy generation efficiency is maximized, but flexibility to absorb excess energy decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The flywheel energy storage system provides dynamic response capabilities that allow rapid adjustment between charging and discharging states. Unlike pumped storage plants that require significant head and flow adjustments, flywheels can quickly absorb or release energy by adjusting rotational speed, enabling operational flexibility while maintaining efficiency through optimized control strategies.
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 energy storage module provides a safe, efficient, and adaptable solution for both local grid stabilization and non-local power supply system support, reducing maintenance needs and environmental risks while optimizing energy use and capacity.
Implementation Method 1
Each flywheel storage unit 2 comprises an electromagnetic transducer 23, via rotation of a rotor 24 of which electrical energy is stored in the form of mechanical rotation energy
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the control systems 3 is designed to control the DC voltage in the DC voltage intermediate circuit 5 such that the DC voltage remains substantially constant between an upper threshold value and a lower threshold value when energy is emitted into the external voltage grid or systems and when energy is absorbed from the external voltage grid or systems
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage module is provided for reversibly storing electrical energy in the form of mechanical rotation energy. The energy storage module comprises a plurality of flywheel storage units, at least one control system and at least one module control unit, wherein the flywheel storage units are connected electrically in parallel by means of a common DC voltage intermediate circuit, and the control system or systems is/are connected to the common DC voltage intermediate circuit by way of the respective output side and to at least one external voltage grid by way of the respective input side, wherein the module control unit is provided for transmitting suitable prespecified torques to the flywheel storage units for emitting or absorbing energy to/from the DC voltage intermediate circuit, and at least one of the control systems is designed to control the DC voltage in the DC voltage intermediate circuit.