Multi-Weight Gravity Storage for Continuous Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-weight gravity-based energy storage systems experience discontinuity in power input or output due to end points in weight transport and cable disconnection, leading to inefficiencies in energy capacity utilization.
Innovation Solution
A multi-weight energy storage system with overlapping path volumes and controlled transporter linkages allows for continuous power input/output by synchronizing the movement of successive weights, using winch and cable arrangements with sheave configurations to manage speed differences and ensure seamless energy transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple weights are used in a single shaft to increase energy capacity, then energy capacity is improved, but discontinuity in power input/output occurs due to end points in weight transport and cable disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the energy storage function into multiple independent weight units, each with its own transporter linkage. This segmentation allows individual weights to be managed separately while collectively providing continuous power through coordinated operation of multiple segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The transporter linkage is pre-positioned and ready to engage with successive weights before they reach the end of their travel paths. This preliminary positioning ensures seamless transition between weights without interruption to power input or output.
2Quantity of substance
If weights are transported to end points and cable disconnection occurs, then full energy capacity is accessible, but power input/output interruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous useful action by ensuring that as one weight reaches the end of its path, another weight is already positioned and ready to engage with the transporter linkage. This overlap eliminates idle time and maintains continuous power input/output throughout the energy storage cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
Successive weights are pre-positioned along the shaft before the transport cycle begins. The transporter linkage is prepared in advance to engage with the next weight, ensuring that no time is lost during transitions between weights.
3Manufacturing precision
If weight transport speed is reduced near end points, then positioning precision is improved, but overall system productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport process is segmented into multiple phases: high-speed transport for most of the path, and controlled deceleration only near the end points. This segmentation allows the system to maintain high productivity during the majority of the transport cycle while achieving necessary positioning precision at critical transition points.
Solution Approach 2:
The deceleration and positioning process begins in advance as the weight approaches the end point, rather than stopping abruptly. This preliminary action allows smooth transition and maintains overall system productivity by minimizing the time spent at reduced speeds.
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 achieves continuous power input/output across the full energy capacity, enhancing energy storage capacity and reducing capital costs, thereby providing a more cost-effective and efficient energy storage solution.
Implementation Method 1
Gravity-based energy storage system comprising: a first weight; a second weight; a first transporter configured for transporting the first weight along a first pre-defined path defining a vertical displacement
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage system and method that enables gravity-based energy storage to have a significantly larger capacity in a single shaft for given capital cost and thus an improved cost per unit energy for large scale energy storage as well as enabling continuity of power input and output at an external connection point across the extent of the system's energy capacity comprises a multi-weight storage system having at least two weights, two transporters each with a transporter linkage that can be coupled to and decoupled from the respective weight and for transporting the weight along a pre-defined path defining a vertical displacement and defining a respective path volume, a second linkage path volume defined by the area of the second linkage decoupled from a weight and developed or swept along a respective pre-defined vertically displaced path, wherein the second linkage path volume does not overlap with the first path volume.