Superconducting Sheet Layout for Low-Field Energy Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy storage devices face limitations in long-term energy storage due to material degradation, and there is a lack of devices that can store energy in a current-carrying coil without a significant magnetic field.
Innovation Solution
A superconducting energy storage device comprising superconducting sheets with a space-filling curve groove pattern and electrodes, cooled by a substance like liquid nitrogen, which allows for energy storage in an electromagnetic field with minimal magnetic field presence, enabling efficient and long-term energy storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a superconducting coil is used to store energy in an electromagnetic field, then energy storage capability is improved, but a significant magnetic field is generated which limits safety and application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the superconducting structure into multiple thin sheets with grooves instead of using a single continuous coil. The grooves segment the current path into discrete regions, allowing the magnetic field to be confined and cancel out in the external space while maintaining energy storage within the structured sheets
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional three-dimensional coil winding to a two-dimensional sheet structure with grooves. This dimensional change allows the current to flow in planar patterns that generate magnetic fields confined to the sheet plane, with negligible external magnetic field exposure
2Duration of action of moving object
If traditional energy storage devices like batteries or springs are used, then energy can be stored, but the materials eventually degrade and lose their functionality over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter from chemical or mechanical energy storage to superconducting electromagnetic energy storage. By operating at cryogenic temperatures where superconductivity occurs, the system achieves zero electrical resistance, eliminating energy losses and material degradation associated with traditional storage methods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite structures combining superconducting materials with non-superconducting support structures. The superconducting sheets are mounted on insulating supports that provide mechanical stability while the superconducting material provides lossless energy storage, creating a durable composite system
3Quantity of substance
If high impedance is used to improve energy storage capabilities, then better energy storage is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple identical superconducting sheets with the same groove pattern, mounted in parallel on insulating supports. This repetitive modular design simplifies manufacturing and assembly while achieving the required impedance and energy storage capability through the cumulative effect of multiple units
Solution Approach 2:
The superconducting sheets serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide the current-carrying path for energy storage, create the required impedance through their groove structure, and generate the magnetic field configuration needed for safe operation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components
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 device can store energy indefinitely with minimal magnetic field exposure, overcoming the limitations of existing devices by allowing faster charging and safer operation due to negligible magnetic fields at a distance from the surface.
Implementation Method 1
at least one superconducting sheet adapted to be coupled to a load in a discharge mode and/or to an energy source in a charge mode
Implementation Method 2
The device further comprises a cooling agent adapted to cool the at least one superconducting sheet, the cooling agent being for example liquid nitrogen or helium
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an energy storage device comprising: - at least one superconducting sheet (1) adapted to be coupled to a load in a discharge mode and/or to an energy source in a charge mode, wherein each superconducting sheet comprises a superconducting layer, and at least a groove (104) extending from a first surface (116) of said superconducting sheet into at least the superconducting layer, the pattern of the groove being a space-filling curve; and - at least one electrode (102), preferably two electrodes, for each superconducting sheet, the at least one electrode being coupled to the groove of said superconducting sheet, for example one electrode at each end of the space-filling curve pattern of the groove.