Accumulator Pressurized By Gas Pump Or External Gas Supply Patents (Class 60/415)
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Patent number: 12128724Abstract: A system for generating air pressure in a hybrid vehicle, comprising an engine-driven air compressor (C1) configured to be selectively operated by an ICE engine, an electrically-driven air compressor (C2) configured to be operated by an electric motor, wherein said electric motor is supplied from the electric network, at least one air reservoir configured to store pressurized air and being configured to be connected directly or indirectly to both an outlet of the engine-driven air compressor (C1) and an outlet of the electrically-driven air compressor (C2), at least one electronic control unit (3, 3?) configured to control at least the electrically-driven air compressor (C2) according at least to a selected drive mode of the vehicle, wherein the electrically-driven air compressor (C2) is downsized compared to the engine-driven compressor (C1), and corresponding control methods.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2018Date of Patent: October 29, 2024Assignee: Volvo Truck CorporationInventors: Piérig Gaillaud, Michael Millet
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Patent number: 11993921Abstract: A cylinder has a piston part, a cylinder part, and a pipe section connected to the piston or cylinder parts. A portion of the pipe section encloses a pressure compartment which receives a fluid to apply a pressure on a pressure surface so the piston part is displaced in a first stroke direction. A first return pressure compartment receives a fluid to apply a pressure on a first return pressure surface so that the piston part is displaced in a second return stroke direction. The first return pressure compartment is positioned on the outside of the pipe section, and the area of the first return pressure surface is substantially equal to the area of the return pressure surface so that a volume-neutral operation of the cylinder is provided. Also described is a hydraulic system, an excavator comprising the cylinder and a procedure for operation of the cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2020Date of Patent: May 28, 2024Assignee: Elmaco ASInventor: Per Olav Haughom
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Patent number: 11976590Abstract: An energy storage system has a pressure vessel that is exposed to ambient temperatures and that contains a working fluid which is condensable at ambient temperatures (CWF); a liquid reservoir in communication with one of the vessels and containing a liquid that is unvaporizable in the reservoir and in the vessel; and apparatus for delivering the liquid from the reservoir to the vessel. The CWF is compressible within the vessel upon direct contact with the liquid and is storable in a liquid state after being compressed to its saturation pressure. In a method, at least some of the liquid located in the vessel is propelled by the CWF towards a turbine to produce power. In one embodiment, a module has a first vessel having at least four ports, a second vessel at ambient temperatures, and a flow control component operatively connected to a corresponding conduit for selectively controlling fluid flow.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2023Date of Patent: May 7, 2024Assignee: ORMAT TECHNOLOGIES INC.Inventors: Eduard Katz, Omri Meshulam, Anton Fiterman, Nirit Grushko
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Patent number: 11905943Abstract: A multi-stage electric gas pump includes a driving mechanism and an eccentric shaft including a main body having a longitudinal axis, a first eccentric portion, and a second eccentric portion, wherein the first eccentric portion and the second eccentric portion are fixed on the main body. The eccentric shaft is driven by the driving mechanism to produce a first circular movement of the first eccentric portion around the longitudinal axis and a second circular movement of the second eccentric portion around the longitudinal axis, wherein the second circular movement is synchronized with the first circular movement. The multi-stage electric gas pump further includes a first cylinder, a second cylinder, and a third cylinder. The cylinders in three stages are driven by the eccentric shaft so as to achieve three-stage pressurization of gas.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2021Date of Patent: February 20, 2024Assignee: Fluke CorporationInventors: Fudong Xu, Hui Wang, Shounan Luo
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Patent number: 11815071Abstract: The gravity compressed air energy storage system includes: a shaft, into which a pressure-bearing cylinder is movably inserted; a locking component arranged at a top of the pressure-bearing cylinder to support the pressure-bearing cylinder on a ground at a top of the shaft through the locking component in case that the pressure-bearing cylinder is at a lowest limit position; a primary gravity block arranged above the locking component; a spherical connection component arranged and spherically connected between the primary gravity block and the locking component; in which a plurality of guide components are arranged around the primary gravity block; and a plurality of guide rails arranged on the ground and at a peripheral side of the primary gravity block; in which the plurality of guide rails cooperate with the plurality of guide components.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2023Date of Patent: November 14, 2023Assignee: XI'AN THERMAL POWER RESEARCH INSTITUTE CO., LTDInventors: Jun Wen, Yang Li, Hanchen Zhao, Chenglong Yang, Haimin Ji, Xiaohui Song, Haifeng Qin, Haiwei Huang, Shuchang Liu, Zaisong Yu
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Patent number: 11738314Abstract: In a general aspect, a system can include a reactor for combusting fuel and producing high-temperature, high-pressure liquid as a byproduct, and at least one vessel defining a cavity to be partially filled with water, with an air pocket within the cavity above the water. The system can further include respective valves to control admission of liquid from the reactor into the air pocket when the air pocket has a pressure lower than an operating pressure of the reactor, and to control emission of the water from the at least one vessel through of the vessel after the water in the at least one vessel has been pressurized by the liquid from the reactor. The system can also include a hydroelectric drive system for receiving water emitted from the cavity, and for converting energy in the received water into electrical energy.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2021Date of Patent: August 29, 2023Assignee: SREUS ENERGY, LLCInventors: John Troy Kraczek, Gordon Ray Whipple, Paul James Freeman
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Patent number: 11662017Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses for operating a machine using energy stored in a compress gas are disclosed. Energy stored in the compressed gas may be used to pressurize a fluid, such as transmission fluid, and the pressurized fluid may be used to effectuate an operation of the machine, such as a transmission, and the operation of the machine may involve shifting of a transmission. The gas may be compressed with another fluid that is different from the fluid used to operate the machine, and the two fluid may be prevented from being mixed together.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2020Date of Patent: May 30, 2023Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Michael J. Cliff, Benjamin K. Dollins
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Patent number: 11619295Abstract: A bypass apparatus for lubricant in an unregulated pressurized gearbox including: a block including a lubricant inlet in fluid communication with a pressure relief valve, wherein the pressure relief valve diverts lubricant into the gearbox or into an oil filter, wherein lubricant is returned to the gearbox when the lubricant is cold and/or pressure at the pressure relief valve is high to reduce damage to the gearbox caused by high pressure during a cold start, and when the lubricant temperature increases and the pressure is reduced the pressure relief valve closes and lubricant enters the oil filter.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2021Date of Patent: April 4, 2023Assignee: TEXTRON INNOVATIONS INC.Inventor: Scott David Poster
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Patent number: 11524562Abstract: An engine capable of operating on compressed air includes one or more first pressurized air tanks, one or more second pressurized air tanks, a first motor including a casing, a transmission shaft disposed within the casing, a first motor entry port coupled to the one or more first pressurized air tanks for receiving compressed air, and a first motor exit port for exhausting the received compressed air, a second motor including a turbine housing, a crankshaft, and a turbine for rotating the crankshaft disposed within the turbine housing, a second motor entry port coupled to the one or more second pressurized air tanks for receiving compressed air, and a second motor exit port for exhausting the received compressed air, and an auto clutch for selectively coupling the transmission shaft to the crankshaft.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2022Date of Patent: December 13, 2022Assignee: Luft Engine Design, LLCInventor: Emad Abdelazim Khalil Moustafa Elebshihy
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Patent number: 11319948Abstract: A CAES generator includes a plurality of motors, a plurality of compressors, a pressure accumulator, an expander, a generator, an electric-motor inverter that changes a rotation speed of each of the motors, a feed command receiver that receives input power as a feed command value before feeding the input power, and a controller. The controller includes a compressor number calculation unit that calculates a maximum number of motors that are allowed to be driven at a rating based on the feed command value, and a compressor drive control unit that drives at the rating, the motors, the number of which is the maximum number calculated by the compressor number calculation unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2018Date of Patent: May 3, 2022Assignee: Kobe Steel, Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Sato, Ryo Nakamichi, Masaki Matsukuma, Hiroki Saruta
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Patent number: 10532485Abstract: A positioning system, attachable to a vehicle for remote operation of the chain saw by a user sitting in the vehicle. A shock absorber indicator functions to tell the user when the weight on the limb is appropriate to engage the saw, and additionally cushions the drop when the saw cuts through the limb.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2016Date of Patent: January 14, 2020Assignee: The Limb Saw Company LLCInventor: O. Wendell McCracken
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Patent number: 10190381Abstract: A method and apparatus for activating a safety device of a blowout preventer utilizes a variable ratio rotary energy controller. The controller automatically adjusts the pressure of the fluid for activating the safety device thereby conserving the amount of energy required for each activating cycle. The controller includes a variable displacement hydraulic motor coupled to a variable displacement hydraulic pump. A system for recharging the activating fluid circuit allows for the actuating system to be reused as needed.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2015Date of Patent: January 29, 2019Assignee: HilFlo, LLCInventors: Clifford Lee Hilpert, Jeffrey Lee Hilpert
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Patent number: 9718653Abstract: A heave compensator with adjustable dampening properties includes a length extension device having an inner space divided by a slide-able piston into a vacuum chamber and a liquid filled chamber, a gas accumulator divided by a slide-able piston into a gas filled chamber and a liquid filled chamber, and a gas tank having an expansion chamber. The liquid and gas chamber are fluidly connected to each other with valve controlled conduits. Further, the device includes pressure and temperature sensors that register pressure and temperature in the gas and liquid phases. The device further includes a control unit having a signal receiving unit, a writeable computer memory, a data processing unit, and a signal transmitting unit. The data processing unit contains computer software that calculates suited amounts of gas and gas pressure in the gas accumulator and/or gas tank based on the information of which lifting operation is going to be performed.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2015Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Ernst-B. Johansen ASInventors: Oddbjørn Bergem, Stian Sannes
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Patent number: 9243609Abstract: Systems and methods to convert low temperature solar thermal or waste heat sources for electric power generation, by integrating available technologies with a unique, efficient combined cycle. The device consists of mobile pods immersed within a thermal sink fluid reservoir. A vapor cycle converts thermal energy to buoyant potential energy by inducing density and volume changes of the mobile pods through discrete phase changes of a refrigerant working fluid. Buoyant potential energy is then converted to electrical power through motion of the entire pod within a thermal sink pressure gradient.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2013Date of Patent: January 26, 2016Inventor: Matthew F Dunn
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Patent number: 9234495Abstract: The power plant disclosed is an engine that derives is usefulness in the pursuit of energy generation by utilizing natural pressure differentials found in various liquids and gases, such as but not limited to water and air. It is generally a two-stroke piston cycle engine, wherein the actions of the pistons perform work, which can be utilized to generate power, pump fluids, or perform work, for example.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: January 12, 2016Inventor: Mark R. Anteau
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Patent number: 9175538Abstract: Method and recharging mechanism for resetting a pressure in a low pressure recipient. The recharging mechanism includes a low pressure recipient configured to have first and second chambers, the first chamber being configured to receive a hydraulic liquid at a high pressure and the second chamber being configured to include a gas at a low pressure. The recharging mechanism further includes a valve fluidly connected to a first port of the first chamber; a pumping device fluidly connected to a second port of the first chamber; and a blowout preventer (BOP) section fluidly connected to the valve and configured to close or open a ram block. The pumping device is configured to evacuate the hydraulic fluid from the first chamber of the low pressure recipient when the valve closes a fluid communication between the first port of the first chamber and the BOP section.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2010Date of Patent: November 3, 2015Assignee: Hydril USA Distribution LLCInventors: Mark Wordley, Ryan Gustafson
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Patent number: 9115770Abstract: A variable capacity hydraulic machine has a rotating group located within a casing and a control housing secured to the casing to extend across and seal an opening in the casing. The control housing accommodates a control circuit and a pair of sensors to sense change in parameters associated with the rotating group. One of the sensors is positioned adjacent the barrel on the rotating group to sense rotational speed and the other senses displacement of the swashplate. The control housing accommodates a control valve and accumulator to supply fluid to the control valve.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2011Date of Patent: August 25, 2015Assignee: Concentric Rockford Inc.Inventor: George Kadlicko
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Patent number: 9068470Abstract: A system adjusts positions of gas turbine inlet guide vanes (IGVs) and variable stator vanes (VSVs). The system includes a hydraulic power unit providing a supply of hydraulic fluid, an IGV servo in fluid communication with the hydraulic power unit, and a VSV servo in fluid communication with the hydraulic power unit. An IGV cylinder set is provided in fluid communication with the hydraulic power unit via the IGV servo and is connected to the IGVs. The IGV cylinder set effects displacement of the IGVs between a closed position and a fully open position. A VSV cylinder set is provided in fluid communication with the hydraulic power unit via the VSV servo. The VSVs include multiple stages linked together with a torque shaft. The VSV cylinder set is connected to the torque shaft, and the VSV cylinder set effects simultaneous displacement of the stages of the VSVs between a closed position and a fully open position.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2011Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Jeffrey Patrick Mills, Jeffrey Mark Ruddy
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Publication number: 20150096289Abstract: The invention relates to a compressed air energy storage system comprising a pressure accumulator (2) for gas to be stored under pressure, and a heat accumulator (27) for storing the compression heat that has accumulated during charging of the pressure accumulator (2), wherein the heat accumulator (27) is arranged ready for use in an overpressure zone (31). Said arrangement enables a structurally simple heat accumulator to be provided, since said heat accumulator is not loaded by the pressure of the gas passing therethrough.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2013Publication date: April 9, 2015Applicant: Airlight Energy IP SAInventors: Andrea Pedretti-Rodi, Giw Zanganeh
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Patent number: 8991169Abstract: A method for adapting stiffness in a variable stiffness actuator includes a member configured to transmit motion that is connected to a fluidic circuit, into which a control fluid circulates. The fluidic circuit includes a supply and distribution unit of the control fluid having a reservoir of the control fluid and a pumping unit. The supply and distribution unit includes two distribution lines of the control fluid, which are fluidly connected to the actuator such that an increase and/or decrease in the pressure of the control fluid activates the member that transmits motion. The stiffness of the actuator is adapted by adapting the pressure of the control fluid into the two distribution lines. The present invention includes also a variable stiffness actuator utilizing the above method for adapting stiffness.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Matteo Zoppi
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Patent number: 8978380Abstract: A compressed air energy storage system including a compressor adapted to receive a process gas and output a compressed process gas. A heat transfer unit may be coupled to the compressor and adapted to receive the compressed process gas and a heat transfer medium and to output a cooled process gas and a heated heat transfer medium. A compressed gas storage unit may be coupled to the heat transfer unit and adapted to receive and store the cooled process gas. A waste heat recovery unit may be coupled to the heat transfer unit and adapted to receive the heated heat transfer medium.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2011Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Dresser-Rand CompanyInventors: H. Allan Kidd, Harry F. Miller
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Patent number: 8955595Abstract: An apparatus and method for providing a controllable supply of fluid, and optionally power and/or communication signals, to a subsea equipment are provided. The fluid may be a water-based fluid, oil-based fluid, or chemicals. The apparatus includes a reservoir disposed on a seabed for storing a supply of fluid for delivery to the subsea well equipment. A subsea pumping device is configured to receive the fluid from the reservoir, pressurize the fluid, and deliver the pressurized fluid to an accumulator of a hydraulic power unit disposed on the seabed. The hydraulic power unit can store the pressurized fluid and control an output of the pressurized fluid to the subsea well equipment, thereby providing a subsea fluid source for the subsea equipment.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2009Date of Patent: February 17, 2015Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: Chukwuemeka U. Emecheta, Thomas E. O'Donnell, Omid Oujani, Hailing An, Baha T. Tanju, George Siappas
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Patent number: 8950181Abstract: Energy can be stored by directing fluid into an expandable receptacle that has a relatively heavy mass above it. The fluid fills the receptacle such that it expands and lifts up the heavy mass above it. At a time when energy is needed, the fluid can be allowed to flow out of the receptacle and through a turbine or hydraulic motor to generate power or electricity. Intermittent or unreliable sources of power can be used to fill the receptacle, or power from a power grid can be used to fill the receptacle at times that are off-peak. During peak-load times, the potential energy of the fluid in the receptacle can be converted to power. The receptacle can also be used to control water flows and can provide a source of power and potable water to a community.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2010Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Inventors: Steven Thomas Ivy, Guy Carl Eastwood
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Publication number: 20140290972Abstract: A hydraulic accumulator including an energy storage apparatus with a first piston face configured to reversibly compress an energy storage medium and a second piston face forming at least part of an inner surface of a corresponding second fluid chamber reversibly expandable by movement of the second piston face. A third piston face forms at least part of an inner surface of a corresponding third fluid chamber reversibly expandable by the third piston face. The first, second and third piston faces are coupled together.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2012Publication date: October 2, 2014Inventor: Angus Peter Robson
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Publication number: 20140238022Abstract: A plant for storing energy by means of compressed air, in which: a storage volume accommodates air at elevated pressure pH; for energy storage, ambient air is compressed and introduced into the storage volume; for removal from storage, compressed air is extracted from the storage volume and discharged into the environment, performing work; at least one low-pressure turbomachine for alternate compression and expansion respectively compresses ambient air to a medium pressure pM and expands said ambient air from said pressure; at least one high-pressure machine for alternate compression and expansion respectively compresses air from the medium pressure pM to the store pressure pH and expands said air from the latter pressure; and said low-pressure turbomachine and high-pressure machine are connected in series in terms of flow and are mechanically coupled to in each case one, or to one common, electric machine that operates selectively as a motor and generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2012Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: Boge Kompressoren Otto Boge GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Ulrich Dämgen, Wolf D. Meier-Scheuven
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Patent number: 8806861Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2013Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Lightsail Energy, Inc.Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr.
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Publication number: 20140209340Abstract: A hammer assembly including a hammer housing and a work tool movably supported in the hammer housing is provided. A gas chamber is defined in the hammer housing and contains a compressible gas. An accumulator assembly includes an interior space. A barrier divides the interior space into a first interior portion containing a compressible gas and a second interior portion configured to receive a pressurized fluid. The barrier is configured to be movable in response to changing the amount of pressurized fluid in the second interior portion and such that movement of the barrier varies the volume of the first interior portion. The first interior portion is in communication with the gas chamber. A control valve assembly is configured for selectively placing the second interior portion of the accumulator assembly in communication with a pressurized fluid source.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 28, 2013Publication date: July 31, 2014Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.Inventor: Cody Moore
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Publication number: 20140190155Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system including a generator/motor subsystem configured to interchangeably impart and receive mechanical force; a stiff DC bus; and power conditioning circuitry electrically connected between the generator/motor subsystem and the stiff DC bus, the power conditioning circuitry conditioning electrical power received from the stiff DC bus to control the angular speed of a rotor of the generator/motor subsystem when imparting mechanical force, and also conditioning electrical power generated for provision to the stiff DC bus by the generator/motor subsystem when receiving mechanical force.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2014Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: Shipstone CorporationInventors: Daniel John Kenway, Oleksandr (Alex) Syschenko, Will Bauer
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Patent number: 8753034Abstract: A crash barrier system is provided that generally includes a hydraulic actuator driven piston operably connected to a hydraulic circuit and the crash barrier. In general, the hydraulic circuit includes a normal-UP and normal-DOWN section, an emergency-UP section, and an overpressure relief sub-system. In order to automatically provide corrective action in the event of an overpressure condition, the overpressure relief sub-system includes an external pressure relief valve that is connected to the hydraulic circuit. Upon occurrence of condition that causes the hydraulic fluid pressure to exceed a predetermined value, hydraulic fluid is released through the pressure relief valve to maintain the pressure at or below the predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2012Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Bandar Ali Al-Qahtani
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Publication number: 20140150418Abstract: A system for generating and storing energy. The system includes an air motor/compressor for compressing air as liquid compressed air and an electric motor/multi-stage modular generator for driving the air motor/compressor. In addition, the system includes a storage facility for storing the air compressed by the electric motor/multi-stage modular generator as liquid compressed air. The air motor/compressor uses liquid compressed air from the storage facility to drive the multi-stage generator for producing electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Inventors: Branko Bem, Melita Bem
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Publication number: 20140123638Abstract: A pneumatic engine system uses gas circulation to recycle exhausted air, so as to reduce gas consumption, save energy, protect the environment, operate for a longer duration, and slow down the attenuation of the power output thereof. The pneumatic engine system includes a pneumatic engine, a gas storage device, a transit gas storage tank, and a suction device. The pneumatic engine receives a compressed air to generate power output. The gas storage device stores the compressed gas and supplies the compressed gas to the pneumatic engine. The transit gas storage tank receives gas discharged from the pneumatic engine. The suction device extracts gas from the transit gas storage tank and transport the extracted gas to the gas storage device for recycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2012Publication date: May 8, 2014Inventors: YU-HUN NIEN, Fan-Kai Tseng
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Patent number: 8713929Abstract: The invention relates to methods and systems for the storage and recovery of energy using open-air hydraulic-pneumatic accumulator and intensifier arrangements that combine at least one accumulator and at least one intensifier in communication with a high-pressure gas storage reservoir on a gas-side of the circuits and a combination fluid motor/pump, coupled to a combination electric generator/motor on the fluid side of the circuits.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Sustainx, Inc.Inventors: Troy O. McBride, Benjamin Bollinger
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Patent number: 8667792Abstract: In various embodiments, coupling losses between a cylinder assembly and other components of a gas compression and/or expansion system are reduced or eliminated via valve-timing control.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2013Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: SustainX, Inc.Inventors: Troy O. McBride, Benjamin R. Bollinger, Joel Berg
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Patent number: 8667788Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system for storing and releasing energy, comprising a generator/motor subsystem; a hydraulic pump for pumping hydraulic fluid between first and second pump ports in response to force applied by the generator/motor subsystem and also capable of imparting force to the generator/motor subsystem in response to hydraulic fluid being caused to flow between the first and second pump ports; a first compression/expansion vessel for exchanging hydraulic fluid with the hydraulic pump via the first pump port; a second compression/expansion vessel for exchanging hydraulic fluid with the hydraulic pump via the second pump port; a gas storage subsystem for selectively storing gas from, or releasing gas to, the first and second gas compression/expansion vessels; an internal heat exchanger within each of the first and second compression/expansion vessels for exchanging heat between the hydraulic fluid and the gas therein, each internal heat exchanger having a very large thermal mass relative to the massType: GrantFiled: April 11, 2011Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Shipstone CorporationInventors: Daniel John Kenway, Oleksandr Syshchenko, Will Bauer
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Patent number: 8661808Abstract: In various embodiments, efficiency of energy storage and recovery systems employing compressed air and liquid heat exchange is improved via control of the system operation and/or the properties of the heat-exchange liquid.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: SustainX, Inc.Inventors: Benjamin Bollinger, Patrick Magari, Troy O. McBride
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Publication number: 20140041374Abstract: An mechanical power system provides torque without using a heat engine where fossil-fuel engines have conventionally been used, by replacing the fossil-fuel burning engine with a rotary pneumatic motor and feeding pressure-regulated compressed gas to the rotary pneumatic motor. The rotary pneumatic motor can be used anywhere, and requires preferably compressed nitrogen in a non-liquid state. Automotive, marine and electrical generating applications are adaptable, and auxiliary power is available for emergencies where a supply of compressed gas has been exhausted. A screw-type compressor can be electrically powered to supply compressed gas to the pneumatic motor where tanks of compressed gas have been exhausted. An electrical generating power plant includes an array of solar panels for generating direct current (DC) and a DC/AC converter for converting the DC to alternating current (AC) and outputting a portion of the AC via a power plant output port to supply an AC load.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2013Publication date: February 13, 2014Inventor: Timothy Domes
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Publication number: 20140020369Abstract: An energy storage system that includes a compressor for compressing a gas, a thermal energy storage for cooling the gas coming from the compressor to a given temperature by heating a thermal storage medium to store thermal energy and a reservoir for storing the compressed gas. The energy system also includes a heat recuperator for further cooling the gas coming from the compressor and thermal energy storage below the given temperature by heating the gas supplied to the compressor.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2013Publication date: January 23, 2014Applicant: ALSTOM Technology LtdInventor: Gianfranco Ludovico GUIDATI
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Patent number: 8601742Abstract: An orientation-independent hydraulic system comprises a dynamic fluid reservoir defining a first volume substantially equal to the volume of the fluid therein, and a hydraulic cylinder in fluid communication with the dynamic fluid reservoir. The hydraulic cylinder has a second volume of hydraulic fluid and a piston rod configured to extend and retract in response to changes in the second volume. A first hydraulic pump is configured to pump hydraulic fluid between the hydraulic cylinder and the dynamic fluid reservoir, thereby moving the piston rod between the extended and retracted positions.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2010Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: NPC Robotics, Inc.Inventors: Norman L. Domholt, John David, Richard Reid
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Patent number: 8561399Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2012Date of Patent: October 22, 2013Assignee: LightSail Energy, Inc.Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr., AmirHossein Pourmousa Abkenar, Kartikeya Mahalatkar, Yongxi Hou, Todd Bowers, Karl E. Stahlkopf
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Patent number: 8534059Abstract: A pressure reducing gas storage device, an air-jet system and a motor vehicle are disclosed herein, wherein the pressure reducing gas storage device comprises a gas storage tank including an inlet for receiving compressed air and an outlet for outputting air and a heat exchanger for heating the air in the air input into the gas storage tank. By providing a heat exchanger to heat the air input in the gas storage tank, the phenomenon of being frozen is eliminated and the pressure reducing gas storage device is able to work continuously and stably.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2011Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Inventor: Yang Cong
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Patent number: 8534058Abstract: Systems, apparatus and methods of compressed air energy storage and electrical power generation are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided having a magnetic piston within a cylinder and an air chamber at each end of the piston; an electromagnetic coil is operable with the piston to convert an input of electrical power to a first reciprocating movement of the piston sufficient to generate compressed air in the chambers for storage in a compressed air storage reservoir; and the electromagnetic coil is operable with the piston to convert a second reciprocating movement of the piston to an output of electrical power connectable to a power grid, with the second reciprocating movement of the piston generated by bursts of the compressed air from the storage reservoir introduced into the chambers.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Southwest Research InstituteInventors: Klaus Brun, Melissa A. Wilcox, Eugene L. Broerman, III
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Patent number: 8516810Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2012Date of Patent: August 27, 2013Assignee: LightSail Energy, Inc.Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr.
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Patent number: 8479774Abstract: A depth compensated subsea accumulator with a cylinder with a cylinder end, a first larger bore, a cylinder shoulder and a second smaller bore, a piston sealingly and slidably engaging the first large bore with a single direction seal and having a rod attached to a first side, the rod sealingly and slidably engaging the second smaller bore, the piston having a working fluid on the first side and a compressed gas on the second side, the working fluid on the first side of the piston having a higher pressure than the gas on the second side of the piston while the piston is moving between the cylinder end and the cylinder shoulder, when the piston sealingly engages the cylinder shoulder, a portion of the working fluid on the first side of the piston within a seal diameter having a lower pressure than the gas on the second side of the piston and a portion of the working fluid on the first side of the piston outside the seal diameter having a higher pressure than the gas on the second side of the piston, such thatType: GrantFiled: July 22, 2011Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Inventor: Benton Frederick Baugh
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Patent number: 8468817Abstract: A compressed-air energy storage system according to embodiments of the present invention comprises a reversible mechanism to compress and expand air, one or more compressed air storage tanks, a control system, one or more heat exchangers, and, in certain embodiments of the invention, a motor-generator. The reversible air compressor-expander uses mechanical power to compress air (when it is acting as a compressor) and converts the energy stored in compressed air to mechanical power (when it is acting as an expander). In certain embodiments, the compressor-expander comprises one or more stages, each stage consisting of pressure vessel (the “pressure cell”) partially filled with water or other liquid. In some embodiments, the pressure vessel communicates with one or more cylinder devices to exchange air and liquid with the cylinder chamber(s) thereof. Suitable valving allows air to enter and leave the pressure cell and cylinder device, if present, under electronic control.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2012Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: LightSail Energy, Inc.Inventors: Danielle A. Fong, Stephen E. Crane, Edwin P. Berlin, Jr.
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Publication number: 20130113213Abstract: A technique facilitates powering of devices at a subsea location without requiring routing of hydraulic pressure and/or electric signals through an umbilical from a surface location. A fluid flow, such as an injection chemical fluid flow, is at least partially routed through a flow converter disposed at a subsea location. The flow converter converts energy from the fluid flow to energy used to operate a power generation device. The power generation device may be designed to generate electrical, hydraulic, or other suitable power which is utilized at the subsea location.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2011Publication date: May 9, 2013Inventors: John Yarnold, Jason Gandolfi, Larry W. Phillips, Matt W. Niemeyer, Javier Cascudo
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Patent number: 8413436Abstract: An accumulator system is configured to store energy and includes an accumulator having a liquid chamber coupled to a liquid port and an air chamber coupled to an air port. The liquid chamber and the air chamber are separated by a moveable isolation barrier. An air motor/compressor coupled to the air port is configured to receive a mechanical input and responsively pump air into the accumulator, and to receive pressurized air from the air port and responsively provide a mechanical output. A liquid reservoir is coupled to the liquid port to receive liquid from the liquid chamber as air is pumped into the air chamber and to provide liquid to the liquid chamber as air is removed from the air chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2007Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Regents of the University of MinnesotaInventors: Perry Y. Li, James D. Van de Ven
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Publication number: 20130047596Abstract: A method for adapting stiffness in a variable stiffness actuator includes a member configured to transmit motion that is connected to a fluidic circuit, into which a control fluid circulates. The fluidic circuit includes a supply and distribution unit of the control fluid having a reservoir of the control fluid and a pumping unit. The supply and distribution unit includes two distribution lines of the control fluid, which are fluidly connected to the actuator such that an increase and/or decrease in the pressure of the control fluid activates the member that transmits motion. The stiffness of the actuator is adapted by adapting the pressure of the control fluid into the two distribution lines. The present invention includes also a variable stiffness actuator utilizing the above method for adapting stiffness.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2012Publication date: February 28, 2013Inventor: Matteo Zoppi
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Publication number: 20130001948Abstract: A power generation system includes a compression unit which compresses a gas, a storage which stores the compressed gas output from the compression unit, a first expansion unit which generates first power and outputs a first exhaust gas, a heating unit which heats at least the stored gas output from the storage, a second expansion unit which generates second power and outputs a second exhaust gas, a first regenerator which performs a first heat exchange between the second exhaust gas and the stored gas output from the storage, to generate a first heat exchange gas used to generate the first power and a first regenerator gas, and a second regenerator which performs a second heat exchange between the first exhaust gas and the first regenerator gas to generate a second heat exchange gas used to generate the second power after heated at the heating unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2012Publication date: January 3, 2013Applicant: SAMSUNG TECHWIN CO., LTD.Inventors: Chan-Sun LIM, Myeong-Hyo KIM, Jong-Sub SHIN, Young-Chang SHON, Jeong-Hun LEE
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Patent number: 8313077Abstract: An apparatus to lift an oilfield machine includes at least one lifting bellows, an alignment assembly extending between at least one lifting bellows and an adapter plate of the oilfield machine, the alignment assembly comprising an inner cylinder to reciprocate within a sleeve of the oilfield machine, and the alignment assembly comprising a top plate at an upper end of the inner cylinder, the top plate configured to transfer forces from the at least one lifting bellows and the inner cylinder to the adapter plate, wherein the sleeve is configured to restrict the inner cylinder to a substantially linear displacements therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2009Date of Patent: November 20, 2012Assignee: M-I L.L.C.Inventor: Anthony Rose
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Patent number: 8286659Abstract: Systems and methods for operating a hydraulically actuated device/system are described herein. For example, systems and methods for the compression and/or expansion of gas can include at least one pressure vessel defining an interior region for retaining at least one of a volume of liquid or a volume of gas and an actuator coupled to and in fluid communication with the pressure vessel. The actuator can have a first mode of operation in which a volume of liquid disposed within the pressure vessel is moved to compress and move gas out of the pressure vessel. The actuator can have a second mode of operation in which a volume of liquid disposed within the pressure vessel is moved by an expanding gas entering the pressure vessel. The system can further include a heat transfer device configured to transfer heat to or from the at least one of a volume of liquid or a volume of gas retained by the pressure vessel.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2010Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: General Compression, Inc.Inventors: Eric D. Ingersoll, Justin A. Aborn