In-Pipe Turbine Energy Storage via Hourglass Reservoirs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack effective solutions for utilizing in-pipe turbines in fluid systems for energy storage and management, particularly in water and electrical systems, especially for off-grid applications and in desert regions with limited water resources.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an in-pipe turbine system that includes hourglass-like storage, conveyor systems, and thermosyphon configurations, combined with a microprocessor-controlled network for energy storage and release, using turbines to generate electricity from water elevation and pressure, and integrating with both water and electrical grids for demand-based energy distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If in-pipe turbines are implemented for energy storage and circulation in fluid systems, then energy generation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The in-pipe turbine system is designed to perform multiple functions: generating electricity from flowing water, storing energy by pumping water to elevated reservoirs, and releasing stored energy during peak demand. This multi-functionality allows a single system to address both energy generation and storage needs, improving overall productivity while managing complexity through functional integration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate components such as elevated water reservoirs, pumps, and control systems that mediate between the turbine and the fluid system. These intermediaries enable energy storage and circulation functions, allowing the system to decouple energy generation from immediate consumption and manage complexity through modular functional blocks
2Adaptability or versatility
If in-pipe turbines are used in off-grid and desert environments with limited water resources, then adaptability is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by storing water in elevated reservoirs during periods of sufficient water availability and energy demand. This advance preparation ensures that both water and energy are available when needed, improving reliability in environments with variable water resources by pre-positioning resources before critical needs arise
Solution Approach 2:
The system adapts to varying environmental conditions by changing operational parameters such as turbine speed, pump capacity, and water flow rates. This flexibility allows the system to maintain reliable operation across different water availability scenarios and environmental conditions, from arid desert periods to wetter intervals
3Quantity of substance
If hourglass-like and conveyor belt-like structures are implemented for energy storage, then energy storage capacity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes vertical elevation as an additional dimension for energy storage, creating hourglass-like structures with upper and lower reservoirs connected through turbines. This vertical arrangement maximizes storage capacity within limited horizontal space and simplifies the overall structure by using gravity as the primary storage mechanism rather than complex mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The energy storage system is segmented into distinct functional zones: upper reservoirs for storage, turbines for energy extraction, and lower reservoirs for return flow. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular, easily replicable units
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 solution enables efficient energy storage and release in off-grid settings, flexible grid control, and continuous renewable energy generation, particularly suitable for desert areas, by leveraging the potential of water systems to provide electricity during peak hours and matching supply and demand in both water and electrical systems.
Implementation Method 1
an in-pipe turbine (12) in the pipe or attached to the pipe provides electricity
Implementation Method 2
FIG. 3 is a diagram of a thermosyphon
Data Source
AI summary
An in-pipe turbine has uses in energy storage and circulation. Specific applications are in storage systems working by elevation, smart grid systems, pressure release, and heating/cooling systems. Storage and release of electrical energy are important parts of an electrical grid. A system for storage using particulates is presented. On a higher level, a water system can interact with an electrical grid in order to use and provide electricity and convey water in a more efficient manner. The connection of a smart water and smart electrical grid, which may include the use of an in-pipe hydroelectric turbine, is presented.