Pressure Vessel Tower Structure for Tall Wind Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wind turbine support structures face limitations in height due to crane height and transportability constraints, and energy storage systems require complex and costly solutions to manage fluctuating electricity demand, especially in remote areas where connecting to the power grid is expensive.
Innovation Solution
A tower structure composed of interconnected constructive pressure vessels that provide both mechanical support and storage capacity for fluids, allowing for easier transportation and assembly of taller structures, and enabling energy storage during low-demand periods to compensate for high-demand periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If wind tower height is increased to improve energy efficiency, then energy harvesting efficiency is improved, but transportability and assembly complexity deteriorate due to crane height limitations and larger bottom diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The wind tower is divided into multiple transportable segments that can be assembled on-site. Each segment is designed to fit within standard crane lifting capabilities while maintaining the overall height needed for efficient energy harvesting. The segments are connected through standardized coupling mechanisms that simplify assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The tower design transitions from a solid monolithic structure to a lattice framework structure. This dimensional change allows the tower to achieve greater height with reduced bottom diameter, as the lattice structure provides structural strength through geometric configuration rather than material volume, thereby improving transportability while maintaining height.
2Stability of the object's composition
If tower bottom diameter is increased to support higher structures, then structural stability is improved, but transportability and handling difficulty worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The tower is segmented into multiple sections that can be transported separately. Each segment has a reduced diameter suitable for standard transport equipment, while the overall tower stability is maintained through proper segmentation and connection design that distributes structural loads effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The design shifts from a solid cylindrical form to a lattice structure, achieving structural stability through three-dimensional geometric configuration rather than increasing cross-sectional diameter. The lattice framework provides rigidity and load distribution while maintaining a compact transportable form factor.
3Quantity of substance
If compressed air storage is integrated into the wind tower structure, then energy storage capability is improved, but construction complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The compressed air storage function is merged with the wind tower structural elements. The lattice framework members are designed to double as pressure containment structures, eliminating the need for separate storage vessels. This integration reduces construction complexity by combining multiple functions into a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tower structure is designed with multi-functionality, where the same structural components serve both mechanical support and compressed air storage purposes. The lattice framework provides both structural integrity and pressure containment, reducing the number of separate components needed and simplifying construction.
Data Source
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AI summary
A tower structure (100) with storing capacity for at least one medium is described. The tower structure (100) comprising at least two substantially vertically oriented support structures for forming the tower structure (100), wherein at least one of the support structures comprises at least one constructive pressure vessel (10) for forming the support structure. A method for building the tower structure also is disclosed. The pressure vessel based tower structure (100) may have applications e.g. in wind mills and solar thermal towers.