Gravity Power Pole with Carriage and Pulleys
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for cost-effective and reliable systems to generate electric power, particularly in areas where alternative energy sources like solar and wind are not consistently available, and where connecting to an electrical power grid is not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a vertical pole with multiple projections and a carriage that uses pulley systems and pinions to efficiently raise an object to a desired height, converting potential energy into kinetic energy, which is then converted into electrical energy using an electric generator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solar or wind energy generators are constructed, then alternative energy can be generated, but the cost is too high to construct
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive, readily available materials such as PVC pipes, wooden planks, and basic mechanical components to construct the gravity-based power generation system. These materials can be easily sourced and assembled without requiring expensive specialized equipment or materials, making the system cost-effective compared to solar or wind generators.
2Duration of action of moving object
If solar energy is stored in a battery, then power is available at night, but solar energy is only available during the day
Solution Approach 1:
The system operates on a periodic cycle where the carriage is raised during the day (storing gravitational potential energy) and lowered at night (generating electricity). This periodic up-and-down motion of the carriage along the vertical pole provides continuous energy availability regardless of time of day, eliminating the intermittency issue of solar power.
3Reliability
If wind power is generated, then energy is available during certain parts of a day and/or year, but wind power may not be available during other times
Solution Approach 1:
The gravity-based system is self-regulating and operates independently of external conditions like wind speed or sunlight. The carriage's position on the vertical pole and the gravitational force provide consistent, predictable operation year-round, eliminating the variability and operational inconsistencies associated with wind power generation.
4Use of energy by stationary object
If an object is raised to a desired height, then potential energy is created, but energy is required to raise the object
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a counterweight mechanism where the carriage itself serves as the counterbalance. As the carriage is raised during the day, it stores gravitational potential energy. During nighttime, the carriage's descent generates electricity. The system effectively uses the carriage's own weight as both the lifting force and the energy source, minimizing external energy input 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
This system allows for the generation of sustainable and readily available electrical energy, capable of being used by individuals, regardless of the time of day or year, by effectively utilizing the potential energy of an object raised to a desired height and converting it into electrical energy.
Implementation Method 1
Potential energy is the energy of an object or a system due to the position of the object relative to a surface. Gravitational energy is the potential energy associated with gravitational force, where potential gravitational energy is obtained by elevating the object against Earth's gravity away from a surface of the earth. Responsive to the object descending from a raised height towards the Earth's surface, gravity accelerates the mass of the object, and the potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. The kinetic energy may then be used to perform work or generate electricity by an electric generator.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein may include at least one pole including a plurality of projections disposed at incremental heights along the pole, an object, a first pulley positioned on a first side of the object, and a second pulley positioned on the second side of the object.