Underground Compressed Gas Storage Balloon
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underground compressed gas storage systems are not economically viable and require high maintenance, especially when high volumes are needed, and there is a need for a system that can effectively utilize energy from wind turbines and other power generation systems for later use.
Innovation Solution
A compressed gas storage system that includes a borehole with a first and second portion filled with sealing material and an inflatable balloon for storing compressed gas, with a gas pipe assembly for filling and releasing gas, and a drainage pipe to manage water, surrounded by compacted filling material for stability and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If ground-based compressed gas storage tanks are used, then accessibility and maintenance are easier, but they require high maintenance costs and large surface area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the storage system from ground-based (2D surface occupation) to underground (3D subspace utilization), moving the storage function to a different spatial dimension. This resolves the contradiction by eliminating surface area requirements while maintaining operational accessibility through shafts and access points.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of placing storage tanks on the ground surface, the patent inverts the approach by placing them underground. This inversion maintains the storage function while eliminating the need for large surface area and reducing visual impact, while access shafts provide maintenance pathways.
2Volume of stationary object
If high volume storage tanks are constructed, then compressed gas storage capacity increases, but construction costs and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible liners (such as HDPE membranes) to create storage tanks underground. These thin-film liners can be deployed in large volumes without requiring expensive reinforced concrete construction, significantly reducing construction costs while maintaining high storage capacity. The flexible nature allows for cost-effective installation in underground boreholes.
Solution Approach 2:
The use of flexible polymer liners represents a more economical alternative to permanent concrete structures. These liners can be replaced if needed and require less initial investment, making high-volume storage more economically viable.
3Strength
If compressed gas is stored in rigid concrete tanks, then structural strength is high, but adaptability to different storage volumes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses flexible liners that can expand and contract based on storage volume requirements. These liners maintain structural integrity through the surrounding earth pressure and proper anchoring systems, while allowing the storage volume to be adjusted by inflating or deflating the liner, providing adaptability that rigid concrete tanks cannot offer.
Solution Approach 2:
The storage system transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic flexible structure that can change volume. The flexible liner can be inflated to different volumes and pressures based on operational needs, providing versatility while maintaining sufficient strength through material selection and structural design.
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 is durable, reliable, and cost-effective, allowing for efficient storage and utilization of compressed gas, reducing energy waste and maintenance costs while effectively utilizing renewable energy sources.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable balloon arranged within the second borehole portion and configured for storing the compressed gas
Implementation Method 2
surrounded by compacted filling material for stability and safety
Implementation Method 3
compacted filling material
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A gas storage system for storing compressed gas, and method for constructing the system, are described. The system includes a borehole having a first borehole portion and a second borehole portion. An inflatable balloon is arranged within the second borehole portion. An upper support member, mounted on top of the inflatable balloon, is configured for anchoring the inflatable balloon to a sealing material filling the first borehole portion. A lower support member is arranged at the bottom of the inflatable balloon. The system includes an inlet gas pipe for filling the inflatable balloon from the gas compressing system and an outlet gas pipe for releasing the compressed gas. A compacted filling material is placed within a gap formed between the inflatable balloon, the upper support member, the lower support member, and an inner surface of the second borehole portion. One or more filling material pipes extend along the borehole to the gap for providing a filling material thereto.