U.S. patent application number 13/663701 was filed with the patent office on 2013-08-08 for method and apparatus for storing energy.
This patent application is currently assigned to ELWHA LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Elwha LLC. Invention is credited to ALISTAIR K. CHAN, GEOFFREY F. DEANE, AARON FYKE, WILLIAM GROSS, RODERICK A. HYDE, EDWARD K.Y. JUNG, JORDIN T. KARE, NATHAN P. MYHRVOLD, CLARENCE T. TEGREENE, LOWELL L. WOOD, JR..
Application Number | 20130200632 13/663701 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48484285 |
Filed Date | 2013-08-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130200632 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CHAN; ALISTAIR K. ; et
al. |
August 8, 2013 |
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR STORING ENERGY
Abstract
An energy storage apparatus for storing energy transmitted by a
power transmission line includes an elastically deformable
component and an actuator-generator. The actuator-generator is
coupled to the elastically deformable component such that
electrical actuation of the actuator-generator generates tension in
the elastically deformable component. The actuator-generator is
further coupled to the elastically deformable component such that
mechanical actuation of the actuator-generator via a release of
tension in the elastically deformable component causes a generation
of electrical energy by the actuator-generator.
Inventors: |
CHAN; ALISTAIR K.;
(BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, WA) ; DEANE; GEOFFREY F.;
(BELLEVUE, WA) ; FYKE; AARON; (PASADENA, CA)
; GROSS; WILLIAM; (PASADENA, CA) ; HYDE; RODERICK
A.; (REDMOND, WA) ; JUNG; EDWARD K.Y.;
(BELLEVUE, WA) ; KARE; JORDIN T.; (SEATTLE,
WA) ; MYHRVOLD; NATHAN P.; (MEDINA, WA) ;
TEGREENE; CLARENCE T.; (MERCER ISLAND, WA) ; WOOD,
JR.; LOWELL L.; (BELLEVUE, WA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Elwha LLC; |
Bellevue |
WA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
ELWHA LLC
Bellevue
WA
|
Family ID: |
48484285 |
Appl. No.: |
13/663701 |
Filed: |
October 30, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13366774 |
Feb 6, 2012 |
8456028 |
|
|
13663701 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
290/1E ;
290/7 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H02J 15/00 20130101;
H02K 7/1876 20130101; H02K 7/18 20130101; H02K 7/1892 20130101;
H02J 3/28 20130101; H02K 7/1008 20130101; H02P 9/10 20130101; H02K
33/02 20130101; H02K 7/003 20130101; F03G 1/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
290/1.E ;
290/7 |
International
Class: |
F02B 63/04 20060101
F02B063/04; H02P 9/04 20060101 H02P009/04 |
Claims
1-71. (canceled)
72. A method of storing energy transmitted by a power transmission
line, the method comprising: generating tension in an elastically
deformable component via an electrically actuatable motor during a
temporal period of electrical actuation of the motor via energy
transmitted from the power transmission line; and actuating an
electrical generator coupled to the elastically deformable
component via restoring force produced by the elastically
deformable component during a release of at least a part of the
tension induced in the elastically deformable component, whereby
electrical energy is generated; wherein the elastically deformable
component is a cable.
73. The method according to claim 72, further comprising
transmitting the electrical energy generated to the power
transmission line.
74. The method according to claim 72, wherein the electrically
actuatable motor and the generator are coupled.
75. The method according to claim 72, wherein the electrically
actuatable motor includes a drive shaft coupled to the
generator.
76. (canceled)
77. The method according to claim 72, wherein tension is induced by
applying a force to at least one end of the cable
78. The method according to claim 72, wherein tension is induced by
applying a force at a point on the cable disposed between a first
end and a second end of the cable.
79. The method according to claim 72, wherein tension is induced by
applying a transverse force to the cable.
80. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable is a
non-rotating cable.
81. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable is a
monolithic cable.
82. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable is a
stranded cable.
83. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable is a
straight stranded cable.
84. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable is a
twisted stranded cable.
85. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable has a
circular cross-section.
86. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable has a
rectangular cross-section.
87. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable has a
ribbon-like cross-section.
88. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable is a
hanging cable.
89. The method according to claim 88, further comprising weights
coupled to the hanging cable.
90. The method according to claim 72, wherein the cable is
pre-tensioned.
91. The method according to claim 72, wherein the induced tension
is torsional.
92. The method according to claim 72, wherein the induced tension
is linear.
93. The method according to claim 72, wherein the motor is a rotary
motor.
94. The method according to claim 72, wherein the motor is a linear
motor.
95. The method according to claim 72, wherein the motor is actuated
via at least one of an electro-hydraulic component, an
electromechanical component, an electromagnetic component, or an
electro-fluidic component.
96. The method according to claim 72, wherein the motor is actuated
via a piezoelectric component.
97. The method according to claim 72, wherein the electrically
actuatable motor and the generator are connected to a power
transmission line.
98. The method according to claim 72, further comprising
regulating, via a controller, electrical energy consumption of the
electrically actuatable motor and electrical energy generation of
the generator.
99. The method according to claim 72, further comprising measuring,
via a sensor coupled to at least one of the elastically deformable
component or the actuator generator, the amount of tension applied
to the elastically deformable component.
100. The method according to claim 72, further comprising
measuring, via a strain gauge, strain in the elastically deformable
component.
101. The method according to claim 72, wherein actuating an
electrical generator coupled to the elastically deformable
component via restoring force produced by the elastically
deformable component during a release of at least a part of the
tension induced in the elastically deformable component occurs
after the generated tension has been maintained in the elastically
deformable component over a period of time.
102. The method according to claim 72, further comprising measuring
an energy storage quantity.
103. The method according to claim 102, further comprising charging
an energy user based on the measured energy storage quantity.
104. The method according to claim 72, further comprising measuring
an energy efficiency.
105. A method of maintaining a power transmission line at a
specified electrical frequency, the method comprising: measuring an
electrical frequency of the power transmission line; adjusting the
electrical frequency of the power transmission line such that the
electrical frequency is substantially equal to the specified
electrical frequency by at least one of removing electricity from
the power transmission line or adding electricity to the power
transmission line; and removing electricity from the power
transmission line and adding electricity to the power transmission
line at rates greater than or equal to 1 Hz; wherein removing
electricity from the power transmission line comprises transmitting
electricity from the power transmission line to an electrically
actuatable motor and thereby actuating the motor to generate
tension in an elastically deformable component and wherein adding
electricity to the power transmission line comprises generating,
with a generator coupled to the elastically deformable component,
electricity via actuation of the generator by a restoring force
produced by the elastically deformable component during a release
of at least a part of the tension induced in the elastically
deformable component.
106. The method of maintaining a power transmission line at a
specified electrical frequency according to claim 105, further
comprising removing electricity from the power transmission line
and adding electricity to the power transmission line at rates
greater than or equal to 10 Hz.
107. (canceled)
108. The method of maintaining an electrical output of a power
transmission line at a specified electrical frequency according to
claim 105, wherein the electrically actuatable motor and the
generator are coupled to one another.
109. The method of maintaining a power transmission line at a
specified electrical frequency according to claim 105, wherein the
elastically deformable component is a cable.
110. The method of maintaining a power transmission line at a
specified electrical frequency according to claim 105, further
comprising removing, via a filter, electricity at a frequency
distinct from the specified electrical frequency from the power
transmission line and transmitting the electricity at a frequency
distinct from the specified electrical frequency to the motor to
apply tension to the elastically deformable component.
111. (canceled)
112. A method of storing energy transmitted by a power transmission
line, the method comprising: generating tension in an elastically
deformable component via an electrically actuatable motor during a
temporal period of electrical actuation of the motor via energy
transmitted from the power transmission line; and actuating an
electrical generator coupled to the elastically deformable
component via restoring force produced by the elastically
deformable component during a release of at least a part of the
tension induced in the elastically deformable component, whereby
electrical energy is generated; wherein the induced tension is
linear.
113. The method according to claim 112, further comprising
regulating, via a controller, electrical energy consumption of the
electrically actuatable motor and electrical energy generation of
the generator.
114. The method according to claim 112, further comprising
measuring, via a sensor coupled to at least one of the elastically
deformable component or the actuator generator, the amount of
tension applied to the elastically deformable component.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to U.S. application No. _____
(Attorney Docket No. 088245-9910), titled "Method and Apparatus for
Removal of Harmonic Noise," filed Feb. 6, 2012, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Power on an electric grid for a particular region is
generally produced via a plurality of distinct sources at a
plurality of locations. The total demand for power by the
collective end users on a grid varies temporally at a rate
unmatched by the rate at which power production sources respond.
Specifically, the rates of changes in power production are
typically too slow to precisely match electricity demand increases
and decreases. While systems may be implemented to watch demand and
to alter, curtail, or increase production in response to the
changes in demand, the inequality in the rate changes between
demand and production generally cause fluctuations in the frequency
of the grid power.
[0003] Frequency of the grid power varies at least temporarily as
load and generation change. These variations tend to be in
sub-hertz (i.e. 0.5 Hz) range on systems operating at 60 Hz or 50
Hz. More specifically, an overload in demand on the system
typically causes the overall system frequency to decrease, and a
significant reduction in demand typically causes the overall system
frequency to increase.
[0004] The slow response time in responding to fluctuations in
supply and demand on an electrical grid leads to system
inefficiencies, wasted power, and dirty electricity (electricity at
frequencies other than the primary frequencies).
SUMMARY
[0005] The inventors have appreciated that energy storage means,
particularly through means capable of rapid energy generation and
release, provide advantageous structures for regulating and
managing electrical energy and the generation and use thereof. In
view of the foregoing, the present disclosure is directed to
methods and apparatuses for energy storage.
[0006] In one embodiment, an energy storage apparatus for storing
energy transmitted by a power transmission line includes an
elastically deformable component and an actuator-generator coupled
to the elastically deformable component. The actuator generator is
configured for coupling to the power transmission line. The
actuator-generator may be coupled to the elastically deformable
component, such that electrical actuation of the actuator-generator
generates tension in the elastically deformable component. The
actuator-generator may also be coupled to the elastically
deformable component, such that mechanical actuation of the
actuator-generator, via a release of tension in the elastically
deformable component, causes a generation of electrical energy by
the actuator-generator.
[0007] In some embodiments, the energy storage apparatus may
include a controller coupled to the actuator-generator. The
controller may be configured to modulate electrical energy
consumption and generation of the actuator-generator. The
controller may further be configured to modulate electrical energy
consumption and generation at rates greater than or equal to 10 Hz,
1 Hz, or the primary frequency of the power transmission line.
[0008] In some embodiments, the actuator-generator of the energy
storage apparatus may include at least one of an electro-hydraulic
component, an electromechanical component, an electromagnetic
component, or an electro-fluidic. The actuator-generator may
include a piezoelectric component in some embodiments.
[0009] The energy storage apparatus may include an electrical power
source coupled to the actuator-generator, which power source may
include a power transmission line.
[0010] The elastically deformable component of the energy storage
apparatus may include a cable. The actuator-generator may be
coupled to at least one end of the cable. In some embodiments, the
actuator-generator may be coupled to the cable at a point on the
cable disposed between a first end of the cable and a second end of
the cable. The cable may be a non-rotating cable, a monolithic
cable, a stranded cable, a straight stranded cable, or a twisted
stranded cable. The cable may have a circular cross-section, a
rectangular cross-section, or a ribbon-like cross section. The
cable may be a hanging cable which may include weights coupled
thereto in accordance with some embodiments. The cable may be
pre-tensioned, for example, via weights in accordance with various
inventive embodiments. The cable may be configured in a linear
orientation and may be configured in a plurality of folds via a
plurality of bearings. The cable may be composed of steel, an
organic polymer, a synthetic polymer such as Kevlar, or Zylon, of a
carbon fiber, such as carbon nanotubes.
[0011] In some embodiments, the actuator-generator may be coupled
to the elastically deformable component, such that electrical
actuation of the actuator generator generates torsional tension in
the elastically deformable component. In other embodiments, the
actuator-generator may be coupled to the elastically deformable
component, such that electrical actuation of the actuator-generator
generates linear tension in the elastically deformable
component.
[0012] In some embodiments, the energy storage apparatus may
include a housing in which at least a portion of the elastically
deformable component and the actuator-generator are disposed.
[0013] In some embodiments, the actuator-generator includes a
rotary motor, and in some embodiments, the actuator-generator
includes a linear motor.
[0014] The actuator-generator may be configured to maintain the
tension generated in the elastically deformable component in some
embodiments. The actuator-generator may include at least one of a
brake, a releasable ratchet, or a movable pin actuatable to
maintain the tension generated in the elastically deformable
component.
[0015] The energy storage apparatus may include at least one sensor
coupled to the elastically deformable component or the
actuator-generator. The sensor may be configured to measure the
tension in the elastically deformable component, which tension may
include linear strain or shear strain. The sensor may be configured
to measure force or torque applied by the actuator-generator, or
may be configured to measure stress in the elastically deformable
component. The energy storage apparatus may include a strain gauge
coupled to the elastically deformable component for measuring the
strain in the elastically deformable component. The energy storage
apparatus may include at least one sensor coupled to at least one
of the elastically deformable component or the actuator-generator,
which sensor may be configured to measure an energy storage
quantity or an energy efficiency of the energy storage
apparatus.
[0016] In some embodiments, the actuator-generator of the energy
storage apparatus may be coupled to the elastically deformable
component, such that electrically actuating the actuator-generator
causes an application of a transverse force to the elastically
deformable component.
[0017] In some embodiments, the energy storage apparatus may be
coupled to a power-sink and the power sink may be the power
transmission line.
[0018] Other exemplary inventive embodiments disclosed herein
provide an energy storage apparatus for storing energy transmitted
by a power transmission line. The energy storage apparatus includes
an elastically deformable component coupled to an actuator and a
generator. The actuator is configured for coupling to the power
transmission line. The actuator may be coupled to the elastically
deformable component, such that electrically actuating the actuator
generates tension in the elastically deformable component. The
generator may be coupled to the elastically deformable member such
that mechanical actuation of the actuator generator via a release
of tension in the elastically deformable component causes a
generation of electrical energy by the generator.
[0019] Other exemplary inventive embodiments disclosed herein
provide an energy storage apparatus that includes an elastically
deformable component coupled to a power transducer. The power
transducer is configured for coupling to a power transmission line.
The power transducer may be configured to generate, from electrical
energy received from a power source, elastic energy in the
elastically deformable component by tensile deformation of the
elastically deformable component. The power transducer may also be
configured to generate electrical energy, from elastic energy
received from the elastically deformable component.
[0020] Some exemplary inventive embodiments disclosed herein
provide a method for storing energy. The method, according to some
embodiments, includes generating tension in an elastically
deformable component via an electrically actuatable motor. The
tension is generated by the motor during a temporal period of
electrical actuation of the motor. The method further includes
actuating an electrical generator coupled to the elastically
deformable component via restoring force produced by the
elastically deformable component during a release of at least a
part of the tension generated in the elastically deformable
component, thereby generating electrical energy.
[0021] In another exemplary inventive embodiment, a method of
maintaining a power transmission line at a specified electrical
frequency is provided. The method of maintaining a power
transmission line at a specified electrical frequency includes
measuring an electrical frequency of the power transmission line
and adjusting the electrical frequency of the power transmission
line such that the electrical frequency is substantially equal to
the specified electrical frequency. The electrical frequency may be
adjusted by at least one of removing electricity from the power
transmission line or adding electricity to the power transmission
line. Removing electricity from the power transmission line
includes comprises transmitting electricity from the power
transmission line to an electrically actuatable motor and thereby
actuating the motor to generate tension in an elastically
deformable component. Adding electricity to the power transmission
line includes generating, with a generator coupled to the
elastically deformable component, electricity via actuation of the
generator by a restoring force produced by the elastically
deformable component during a release of at least a part of the
tension generated in the elastically deformable component.
[0022] The method of maintaining a power transmission line at a
specified electrical frequency may also include removing, via a
filter, electricity at a frequency distinct from the specified
electrical frequency from the power transmission line and
transmitting the electricity at a frequency distinct from the
specified electrical frequency to the motor to generate tension in
the elastically deformable component.
[0023] Exemplary inventive embodiments also provide a computer
program product. The computer program product includes computer
readable code stored on a tangible storage medium. The computer
readable code forms a computer program executable by a computer for
maintaining an electrical output of a power transmission line at a
specified electrical frequency. The computer program includes
computer code for causing a sensor to measure the electrical
frequency of the power transmission line and computer code for
adjusting the electrical frequency of the power transmission line
such that the electrical frequency is substantially equal to the
specified electrical frequency by at least one of removing
electricity from the power transmission line or adding electricity
to the power transmission line. Removing electricity from the power
transmission line based on the computer code includes causing
transmission of electricity from the power transmission line to an
electrically actuatable motor and thereby actuating the motor to
generate tension in an elastically deformable component. Adding
electricity to the power transmission line based on the computer
code includes causing generation, via a generator coupled to the
elastically deformable component, of electricity via actuation of
the generator by a restoring force produced by the elastically
deformable component during a release of at least a part of the
tension generated in the elastically deformable component and
causing transmission of the generating electricity to the power
transmission line.
[0024] It should be appreciated that all combinations of the
foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater
detail below (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent)
are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter
disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed
subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are
contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter
disclosed herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0025] The skilled artisan will understand that the drawings
primarily are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to
limit the scope of the inventive subject matter described
herein.
[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates an energy storage and generation
apparatus connected to a power source, in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates an energy storage and generation
apparatus connected to a power source, in accordance with another
embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 3 shows an energy storage and generation apparatus
having a linear actuator configured to translate in a direction
transverse to the axis of an energy storage component, in
accordance with one embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 4 shows an energy storage and generation apparatus
having a linear actuator configured to translate along the axis of
an energy storage component, in accordance with one embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 5 depicts an energy storage and generation apparatus
actuating a folded or undulated energy storage component, in
accordance with one embodiment.
[0031] The features and advantages of the inventive concepts
disclosed herein will become more apparent from the detailed
description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the
drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] Following below are more detailed descriptions of various
concepts related to, and embodiments of, inventive apparatuses,
methods, and systems for storing energy. It should be appreciated
that various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater
detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the
disclosed concepts are not limited to any particular manner of
implementation. Examples of specific implementations and
applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.
[0033] Various exemplary embodiments are directed generally to
apparatuses methods for storing energy and optionally using stored
energy to generate electricity. Various embodiments are
particularly directed towards the conversion of electrical energy
into mechanical energy, the use of the mechanical energy to
generate potential energy which may be temporally stored, and the
harvesting of electrical energy from stored potential energy. The
concepts disclosed herein may have substantial utility in the
context of power regulation and rapid responses in connection with
fluctuating energy demands.
[0034] FIG. 1 illustrates an energy storage and generation
apparatus connected to a power source, according to one embodiment.
In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1, the energy storage and
generation apparatus 100 includes an elastically deformable
component 101. Elastically deformable component 101 may be composed
of a cable. The elastically deformable member is coupled to an
actuator in the form of a combined motor-generator 102 in the
depicted embodiment. Motor-generator 102 is a rotary actuator in
the illustrated exemplary embodiment. In accordance with various
inventive embodiments, elastically deformable member 101 may be
coupled to a distinct motor or actuator and a distinct generator.
Motor-generator 102 is coupled to component 101 for rotatably
applying a force to generation torsional tension (referenced by
actuation direction 111) to component 101. Motor-generator is
coupled to an extremity of component 101 in the illustrated
embodiment. The extremity of component 101 opposing the extremity
coupled to motor-actuator 102 is coupled to a stationary structure
to assist in the twisting of the component 101 upon actuation of
the end coupled to the motor-generator. As such, upon rotary
actuation of the motor-generator 102, component 101 is twisted and
in opposition to a return force wanted to return the component to
its untwisted configuration. The motor-generator is anchored via
base 105 to a stationary structure 106 to maintain the motor in a
stationary orientation when torsional tension is generated in
component 101. Structure 106 may support component to prevent a
force, torque or moment applied to the component from causing a
complete rotation of the component.
[0035] Motor-generator 102 is actuated via electrical energy
transmitted from a power transmission line 110. In some
embodiments, energy storage and generation apparatus 100 may be
disposed in a housing coupled directly to a utility pole carrying
the power transmission line and may be directly or indirectly
coupled to the power transmission line. In embodiments where the
motor-generator is indirectly coupled to the power transmission
line, intermediate components such as transformers or rectifiers
may be disposed between the power transmission line 110 and the
motor-generator 102.
[0036] Motor-generator 102 may be actuated for power regulation,
for example when more power is being produced than is required.
Particularly in response to a decrease in demand or an increase in
capacity, certain embodiments disclosed herein may be utilized a
mechanism for temporarily storing a portion of the excess energy
through consumption by the motor-generator for elastically
stretching component 101. Upon an increase in demand and a decrease
in capacity, the stored energy may be rapidly released to provide a
quick substitute for the energy generation capacity.
[0037] Motor-generator 102 generally includes two primary
components, a rotor and a stator. Either the rotor or the stator
may constitute the armature or the magnetic field. The magnetic
field is generally created via field coils, which may be powered
via a portion of the electricity from the power transmission line.
The electrically generated magnetic field may constitute an
electro-mechanical component and electricity from the power
transmission line may provide the electric current used to create
the magnetic field. The motor portion of the motor-generator may
comprise an AC or a DC motor, including, but not limited to,
multiphase, asynchronous and synchronous AC motors. In some
embodiments, the motor includes a brake component to hold the
twisted component 101 in the strained configuration. The brake may
directly constrain the rotor of the motor in various embodiments.
In other embodiments, as disclosed further herein, the brake may
constrain component 101 and may be include a system that is
integral or separate from the motor-generator 102 and component
101. Although motor-generator 102 is illustrated in FIG. 1 as a
combined motor and generator various inventive embodiments may
include a separate and distinct motor and generator and may include
a plurality of motors or actuators and a plurality of generators,
which may be coupled to one or more elastically deformable
components.
[0038] Component 101 may be held in the twisted configuration for
the required timeframe and released upon command. The control of
the motor-generator 102, including actuation and release, may be
controlled via a controller. The controller may be a local
controller or may include a remotely controlled system. At the
appropriate command, the twisted component 101 may be released. The
restoring force exerted by the release of the twisted component may
be used to mechanically move the rotor of the motor-generator, such
that motion of the magnetic field induces an electrical current to
flow in the coils previously powered by power transmission line.
The current induced by the mechanical motion of the rotor may be
directed back towards the power transmission line and thereby
inserted back into the electrical grid. In various embodiments, a
capacitor may be included to store energy that is in excess of what
the tension in the wire may elastically hold. For example, this
approach may be used if the power required to be shed from the grid
to maintain the power transmission line operating at the right
power level and frequency exceeds that storable by tension in
component 102. At least a portion of the tension may be released to
charge the capacitor and the excess energy from the grid may be
used to recharge and re-apply tension generating force to component
102. The tension in the cable may be monitored, for exampled via a
strain gauged or other sensor, for determining when the capacity of
the elastically deformable component has been reached. Such a
schematic for sharing power between a device such as a capacitor
and the elastically deformable component 102, affords increased
overall capacity of system 100. In some embodiments, power
generated by the restoring force of tensioned component may be used
to magnetize the field magnets. Power input into motor-generator
102 and power output from motor-generator 102 may be facilitated
via connections 104, which may link to a central connection
interface 107 coupled to power transmission line 110. As mentioned,
electrical energy 109 may be transmitted to apparatus 100 from the
power transmission line 110 and electrical energy 108 may be
transmitted to the power transmission line 110 from apparatus
100.
[0039] A control system may be provided for controlling the
consumption and generation of electrical energy by apparatus 100.
The control system may be connected to a sensor for monitoring the
frequency of the power transmitted in the power transmission line
110. The information received from the sensor may be used to
initiate, increase, or decrease energy consumption as needed to
maintain the power transmission line at a specific frequency. The
control system may implement a computer program, which may be
configured to control operation of a plurality of energy storage
and generation apparatuses.
[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates an energy storage and generation
apparatus connected to a power source, according to another
exemplary embodiment. The energy storage and generation apparatus
200 depicted in FIG. 2, in a manner similar to the embodiment of
FIG. 1, operates through rotary actuation, as indicated by arrows
211, along an axis of elastically deformable component 201. In
various embodiments, rotary actuation may be about a longitudinal
axis, and in some embodiments, rotary actuation may be about an
axis having a vertical component. However, as shown in FIG. 2,
motor-generator 202 is coupled to elastically deformable component
201, which may be a cable component, at an intermediate location on
component 201 disposed between two opposing extremities of
component 201. Accordingly, in this embodiment component 201 is
coupled to both axial ends of the rotor of motor generator 202.
Motor-generator 202 remains anchored via base components 205 to a
stationary structure 206.
[0041] FIG. 3 shows an energy storage and generation apparatus
having a linear actuator configured to translate in a direction
transverse or substantially perpendicular to the axis of an energy
storage component, according to another exemplary embodiment.
Motor-generator 302, which may simply include a motor in some
embodiments having a separate generator, actuates linearly. Some
inventive embodiments may include a plurality of motors and
generators. As demonstrated in FIG. 3, linearly actuating motor 302
via electrical energy transmitted from power transmission line 110
causes the motor (or at least a portion thereof), to move in a
direction that traverses the axis of elastically deformable
component 301, as indicated by arrow 307. Because component 301 is
coupled to motor-generator 302 via coupler 304, which may permit
rotation, as motor 302 is actuated component 301 is stretched
laterally and the tension in component 301 is thereby increased.
Accordingly, a restoring force is acting on component 301, which is
anchored at anchors 303. The restoring force is proportionate to
the lateral displacement of a portion of component 301 from its
neutral location. As further demonstrated, motor-generator 302 may
be disposed on tracks 305, rigidly coupled to support structures
306. Tracks 305 maintain properly alignment of motor generator 302.
Furthermore, because of the linear and possibly reciprocating
motion that may be exerted on motor-generator 302, tracks 305 may
include coils within which electrical current may be induced for
the generation of electricity as a magnetic field in
motor-generator 302 passes the coils via the exertion from the
restoring force of stretched component 301. The input current for
electrically actuating motor-generator 302 to displace the
motor-generator and tension component 301 may be input through
coils in tracks 305. Inputting and inducing current into coils 305
may be advantageous over inputting current into motor-generator and
creating a magnetic field at tracks 305 in some implementations as
this allows the primary coils and hence the wires connected thereto
to remain stationary.
[0042] FIG. 4 shows an energy storage and generation apparatus
having a linear actuator configured to translate along the axis of
an energy storage component according to another exemplary
embodiment. Motor-generator 402 of apparatus 400, which may simply
include a motor in some embodiments having a separate generator,
also actuates linearly. However, in contrast to the embodiment
demonstrated in FIG. 3, the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, when
linearly actuated via electrical energy transmitted from power
transmission line 110, causes the motor (or at least a portion
thereof) to move in a direction along or parallel to the axis of
elastically deformable component 401 as indicated by arrow 407.
FIG. 4 further demonstrates independent braking components 404.
Brake 404 may be actuated to exert inward and oppositely opposed
forces on component 401. This clamping force may be applied after
extension to maintain the potential energy in stretched component
401, without requiring the motor and bearing components therein to
sustain high axial forces applied by the restoring force of the
tensioned component 401 on the motor or bearing contained therein.
As described in connection with FIG. 3, motor-generator 402 may be
disposed on one or more tracks 405, which tracks may include coils
within which electrical current may be induced for the generation
of electricity as a magnetic field in motor-generator 402 passes
the coils via the exertion from the restoring force of stretched
component 401. The input current for electrically actuating
motor-generator 402 to displace the motor-generator and tension
component 401 may be input through coils in tracks 405.
[0043] FIG. 5 depicts an energy storage and generation apparatus
actuating a folded or undulated energy storage component according
to another exemplary embodiment. Energy storage and generation
apparatus 500 uses rotary motion for application of force
generating linear tension and conversely uses linear tension to
generate electricity through rotating mechanical actuation.
Motor-generator 502 includes a rotary motor and a rotary generator.
Electrical actuation of the rotor of rotor-generator 502 causes
application of linear tension to elastically deformable component
501. Stretching of component 501 is accommodated via bearings 504,
which may rotate as component 501 is stretched or which may be
composed of a low friction material that affords sliding of
component 501 around the bearings. The component is attached to
structure 503 to permit linear stretching. Once the tension in
component 501 is released, it causes rotor 505 of motor-generator
502 to rotate in the opposite direction that it was actuated in to
stretch the pulley. This rotation of the rotor 505, which may
comprise the magnetic field, may be used to induce a current to
flow in coils 506 surrounding the magnetized rotor, thereby
produces electricity for transmission to the power transmission
line 110 as required.
[0044] As described above, elastically deformable components
provided herein may include a cable, which cable may be a
non-rotating cable, a monolithic cable, a stranded cable, a
straight stranded cable, or a twisted stranded cable. The cable may
have a circular cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, or a
ribbon-like cross section. The cable may be a hanging cable in
accordance with some embodiments and may be pre-tensioned, for
example, via weights. The cable may be composed of steel in some
embodiments. The cable may be composed of steel, an organic
polymer, a synthetic polymer such as Kevlar (poly-paraphenylene
terephthalamide), or Zylon (poly-phenylene benzobisoxazole), of a
carbon fiber, such as carbon nanotubes.
[0045] A variety of braking mechanisms may be used to retain the
tension in the cable. In addition to the clamping mechanism
described above in connection with FIG. 4, braking may be achieved
via an actuatable pin, which pin may lock the motor-generator or
may be engageable with the cable for locking, or a ratchet
mechanism preventing back-rotation unless disengaged.
[0046] In various embodiments, the motor-generator may include or
be comprised of an actuator or power transducer in the form of an
electro-hydraulic actuator, an electro-magnetic actuator, an
electro-fluidic actuator or another type of electromechanical
actuator, such as a piezo-electric motor.
[0047] In various inventive embodiments, the energy storage
apparatus may include at least one sensor coupled to at least one
of the elastically deformable component or the actuator-generator,
which sensor may be configured to measure an energy storage
quantity or an energy efficiency of the energy storage apparatus.
The energy storage quantity may quantify the strain energy stored,
the energy input for generating tension, or the energy recovered
from the system. The energy storage quantity may measure the
cumulative stored energy, which may be the cumulative energy added
to the energy storage apparatus or the cumulative energy returned
to a power transmission line by an energy storage apparatus. This
cumulative energy quantity may be used as a pricing metric to
determine how much energy storage a user or a consumer may be
charged for. Similarly, the energy efficiency may measure the
cumulative stored energy which may quantify the energy input
relative to the energy recovered or generated by the system. The
energy storage quantity may provide a metric used to determine an
amount charged to a consumer using energy stored and or generated
by an inventive embodiment provided herein.
[0048] While various inventive embodiments have been described and
illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily
envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing
the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the
advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or
modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive
embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the
art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions,
materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be
exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials,
and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or
applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those
skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no
more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific
inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be
understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of
example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and
equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced
otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive
embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each
individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method
described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such
features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if
such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods
are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive
scope of the present disclosure.
[0049] The above-described embodiments of the invention can be
implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, some embodiments
may be implemented using hardware, software or a combination
thereof. When any aspect of an embodiment is implemented at least
in part in software, the software code can be executed on any
suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in
a single computer or distributed among multiple computers.
[0050] In this respect, various aspects of the invention may be
embodied at least in part as a computer readable storage medium (or
multiple computer readable storage media) (e.g., a computer memory,
one or more floppy discs, compact discs, optical discs, magnetic
tapes, flash memories, circuit configurations in Field Programmable
Gate Arrays or other semiconductor devices, or other tangible
computer storage medium or non-transitory medium) encoded with one
or more programs that, when executed on one or more computers or
other processors, perform methods that implement the various
embodiments of the technology discussed above. The computer
readable medium or media can be transportable, such that the
program or programs stored thereon can be loaded onto one or more
different computers or other processors to implement various
aspects of the present technology as discussed above.
[0051] The terms "program" or "software" are used herein in a
generic sense to refer to any type of computer code or set of
computer-executable instructions that can be employed to program a
computer or other processor to implement various aspects of the
present technology as discussed above. Additionally, it should be
appreciated that according to one aspect of this embodiment, one or
more computer programs that when executed perform methods of the
present technology need not reside on a single computer or
processor, but may be distributed in a modular fashion amongst a
number of different computers or processors to implement various
aspects of the present technology.
[0052] Computer-executable instructions may be in many forms, such
as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other
devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs,
objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular
tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Typically the
functionality of the program modules may be combined or distributed
as desired in various embodiments.
[0053] Also, the technology described herein may be embodied as a
method, of which at least one example has been provided. The acts
performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way.
Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are
performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include
performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as
sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.
[0054] The claims should not be read as limited to the described
order or elements unless stated to that effect. It should be
understood that various changes in form and detail may be made by
one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit
and scope of the appended claims. All embodiments that come within
the spirit and scope of the following claims and equivalents
thereto are claimed.
* * * * *