Segmented Flywheel Assembly for High-Speed Energy Storage

The flywheel mass is divided into multiple segments or masses that can move independently relative to the axle. Each segment is constrained by retaining structures (such as arms or clips) that allow radial movement but prevent separation. This segmentation allows the flywheel to accommodate centrifugal deformation without catastrophic failure, as each segment can deform independently while remaining connected to the rotating axle.

The flywheel mass is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to adapt to centrifugal forces during rotation. The mass can move radially outward when rotating at high speeds, and the retaining structures flex or adjust to maintain contact. This dynamic behavior enables the flywheel to operate at higher speeds without the rigid constraints that would lead to fracture, while still maintaining sufficient contact to prevent unbalanced operation.

Retaining structures such as arms, clips, or constraints are provided that act as cushioning elements between the flywheel mass and the axle. These structures are designed to maintain contact during normal operation but allow controlled separation if deformation occurs. The retaining structures prevent complete disengagement while accommodating the deformation, thus cushioning against the harmful effects of mass separation and preventing unbalanced operation.

The retaining structures serve as intermediary elements between the flywheel mass and the axle. Rather than having direct rigid contact, the retaining structures mediate the interaction, allowing for deformation while maintaining connection. These intermediaries ensure that even if the mass deforms away from the axle, the connection is maintained through the retaining structures, preventing unbalanced operation and vibrations.

Rather than using a single complex deformable hub, the solution segments the flywheel into multiple masses that can move independently. Each mass is simpler in design, and the retaining structures are simple constraints rather than complex deformable components. This segmentation achieves the high-speed capability through distributed simple components rather than a single complex hub structure.

The flywheel masses themselves provide the deformation capability needed for high-speed operation, rather than relying on a separate deformable hub structure. Each mass can deform and move radially on its own, using its inherent flexibility and the space provided by the retaining structures. This self-service approach eliminates the need for a complex deformable hub, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high-speed capability.