GB2551177A

GB2551177A - Raised weight gravity generator

Info

Publication number: GB2551177A
Application number: GB1610068.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Anthony Maitland Garstin Edward
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-06-09
Filing date: 2016-06-09
Publication date: 2017-12-13
Also published as: GB201610068D0

Abstract

A falling mass may be used to generate electricity by harvesting the kinetic energy of the mass as it descends. In a first embodiment a weight 1 is located above and to a plunger shaft 2 having a helical outer form thereon which engages with a corresponding spiral form on a rotor 3. The shaft is contained within a support housing 6. As the mass descends the shaft 2 rotates and spins rotor 3 and associated gears 4 to control the rpm of the rotor. A pair of discs contain an electrical generator 5 and a programmable logic controller 39. The mass may be a solid weight or a container of water. The mass may be allow to fall in a controlled manner when desired and then may be raised back to its original position by use of a number of movable supports 8 powered by off peak surplus electricity or by utilizing renewable sources including, wind, solar, wave or tidal means 9. In a further embodiment the mass may take the form of a water tank that also contains a weight. The device may generate power in similar manner as above but in addition it produces electricity via a hydroelectric dynamo Fig 2, 18 as water is released from the tank. Off peak power may be used to replenish the tank.

Description

Raised Weight Gravity Generator

Field of invention:

The present invention relates to a gravitational energy storage and power generation system by means of a suspended weight.

Background of invention:

Conventional energy storage systems have many limitations. Flywheels for example need complex bearings, vacuum chambers and loose momentum over time. Batteries are expensive to make and have limited life spans. A cheap and effective energy storage system is needed to combat surplus energy created by intermittent energy supplies such as solar, wind or tidal so that it may later be released and generated as needed.

Summary of invention:

The Raised Weight Gravity Generator is a unique energy storage and electrical power generation system that allows potential stored gravitational energy in a raised weight to be converted to electrical energy by using gravity to move said weight and then converting the kinetic energy into electricity.

This allows an efficient release of the stored energy in the weight as needed approach to power generation, providing a much more efficient approach to a flywheel i.e. for storing energy and a much cheaper approach as there are no complex parts or need for any vacuums. The device is practically endless in terms of its scalability, if you can build the supporting structure you could raise a mountain if needed. This gives you the option to scale it up for use on solar and wind farms where power generation is intermittent storing energy to be released later as demand on the grid requires. Or go even more green where possible and scale it for home use, preferably used in conjunction with renewable's to allow homes to be completely independent from the grid or even contribute to it. Placing a device in each home would also negate the energy loss from transporting electricity across the grid. The device can also generate electricity when the mechanism is being elevated by the raising support. This is net positive when the raising support being used is buoyancy and the moons gravitational energy acting on the oceans if the device is placed in tidal areas, turning it into a viable source of tidal power generation that is not intermittent. The device will operate at optimal efficiency when the gearing system and electric generator reaches maximum rotational speed. A two meter cube of steel weighs approximately 60,000 KG this falling over 5 meters will have enough potential energy approximately 50,000 watts to power 4 average homes in the UK over night providing the gearing system is relatively efficient 80-90%.

There are 2 different approaches to solving the same problem in this invention. The first is a Plunger design with either a toothed or spiral configuration, which are covered in Fig. 1 to Fig. 16. The second is a two way hydraulic drive system approach covered in Fig. 17 to Fig. 22.

In the plunger design, gears attached to an electrical controller allow control over the speed at which the weight is falling which correlates to the speed at which a rotor or cog rotates. The cog or rotor is connected to an electric generator by means of a gearing system allowing fine control by means of an electric controller.

In the two way hydraulic drive system a gearing system attached to an electric controller allow control over the speed at which the weight is falling which correlates to the speed of the hydraulic drive system is creating reciprocating motion which affects the amount of electrical power that is being generated. The reciprocating motion is converted in to electrical energy by means of two different approaches. The first is a conventional piston attached to a crank shaft connected to a drive wheel which turns a drive shaft that is connected to an electric generator by means of a gearing system. The second is by means of a hydrostatic transmission forcing hydraulic fluid through a hydroelectric turbine. The main advantage of the first piston approach is that multiple devices can be lined up and positioned to operate on the same crank shaft with the timing of the pistons controlled by an electric controller to maximise efficiency.

Brief Description of drawing:

The structure and the technical means adopted by the present invention to achieve the above and other objects can be best understood by referring to the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings, wherein;

Fig. 1 is an assembled perspective view of a Spiral version of the device with a horizontal generator. Fig. 2 is an assembled perspective of Spiral Buoyancy Tank version of the device with a horizontal generator.

Fig. 3 is an assembled perspective of a Toothed version of the device.

Fig. 4 is an assembled perspective view of the Buoyancy Tidal version of the device with a horizontal generator.

Fig. 5 is an assembled perspective of the Spiral version with a horizontal generator integrated into the foundations of a house.

Fig. 6 is an assembled perspective of the Buoyancy Tidal version with a horizontal generator and the addition of boat supports.

Fig. 7 is a cross section perspective of The Spiral Plunger shaft connecting to the support shaft and spiral rotor with a horizontal generator.

Fig. 8 is an exploded perspective of a spiral version of the device Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective of a toothed version of the device

Fig. 11 is a cross section perspective of The Spiral Plunger shaft connecting to the support shaft with a spiral gearing system.

Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective of a spiral version of the device with spiral gears.

Fig. 13 is an assembled perspective of a spiral version of the device with spiral gears and a long crank shaft.

Fig. 14 an assembled perspective of the spiral version with a horizontal generator and a submarine conversion.

Fig. 15 is an assembled perspective of a spiral version of the device with a counter generator on top. Fig. 16 is an assembled perspective of a spiral weight version of the device with a horizontal generator.

Fig. 17 is an assembled perspective view of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a piston driven generator.

Fig. 18 is an assembled perspective view of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a hydrostatic transmission and hydroelectric turbine version of the device.

Fig. 20 is a hydraulic schematic diagram of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a hydrostatic transmission and hydroelectric turbine

Fig. 21 is a hydraulic schematic diagram of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a piston driven generator.

Fig. 22 is an assembled perspective view of a Buoyancy Version of Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a piston driven generator.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments:

Please refer to Fig.l, Fig. 8 and Fig. 7 for the that are assembled perspective, exploded perspective, and assembled cross sectional views, respectively, of a spiral version of the device with a standard assembly configuration according to the present invention. As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a spiral plunger (2), spiral rotor (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9) and an electronic controller (39).

The weight (1) of the device can be practically any thing that is heavy. A cheap option would Concrete, or a tank filled with sand or water. To maximise efficiency where cost is not an issue heavy metals such as steel should be used. The weight (1) is located at the top of the device with the plunger shaft (2) attached beneath. It needs to be securely attached, this can be achieved by appropriate bracing or a receiving hole penetrating only partly through the weight.

The spiral plunger (2) must be used in conjunction with a spiral rotor. The spiral plunger should be lubricated along with the use of appropriate bearings to minimise wear on the mechanism. The spiral plunger must be located in the centre of the gravity of the weight to ensure that there is always a downward force of earth’s gravity acting on it. The plunger shaft is then attached to the spiral rotor through the drive hole in the centre.

The spiral rotor (3) must be used in conjunction with a spiral plunger (2). The spiral rotor (3) should be lubricated to minimise wear on the mechanism. The spiral rotor (3) should be relatively large so that the weight automatically counters the main weight (1) to ensure a slow falling rate if consistent low power generation is required, (i.e. for a home.) However all the variables can be adjusted to achieve opposite results.

For the gearing (4), preferably magnetic gears should be used in the system so that there is no touching parts and therefore no wear. Alternatively spiral gears enclosed in a vacuum would allow high efficiency, however any gearing system would work. The gears allow control over speed at which the spiral rotor (3) rotates. This correlates to the speed the weight (1) is dropping and the amount of electricity being generated. The size, type and strength of the gears (4) used will be paramount as there tolerance will dictate the maximum size of weight that can be used in each energy storage system.

Practically any electric generator (5), can be used which converts rotational energy to electrical energy. In this version the generator consists of a horizontal generator to maximize efficiency. The Bottom disc consists fixed coils and is fixed in position so it does not spin. The upper disc is connected to the gearing system (4) that is connected to the spiral rotor. The discs are connected using the appropriate bearings, preferably magnetic.

The support shaft (6), can be made from any material that is strong enough to hold the weight of the mechanism such as, concrete, steel any strong metal, epoxy resin, carbon fibre, wood etc... It is connected from the ground to the spiral rotor (3) mechanism. It holds the mechanism in place to guide the plunger shaft (2), support the weight of the structure once the raising support is removed and stop any unwanted counter rotation in the mechanism. The support shaft has bearings on the inside to guide the help guide the plunger shaft (2) and minimise friction. The support shaft will need to be a cylindrical shape with an inverse spiral shape on the inside to guide the spiral plunger and stop the weight spinning whilst it falls. To minimise frictional losses magnetic or fluid bearings should be used. However if price is an issue any rolling-element bearing will suffice.

The quartz landing pad (7), is positioned beneath the plunger shaft (2). When the plunger shaft makes contact with the pad (7) at the end of each cycle when it is squeezed under the weight of gravity electricity is generated.

The Raising Support (8), used for this version is a hydraulic cylinder powered by a hydraulic drive system. When a hydraulic drive system is being used it will be powered preferably by renewables (wind, solar) or by excess energy from the grid. The raising support (8) must be positioned beneath the weight (1) to ensure it makes contact Multiple rams can be used to spread the weight and maximise efficiency. Please note that in these designs the raising support / mechanism is a hydraulic drive system to maximise efficiency. However any electric jack or electric raising mechanism can be used.

The power supply (9), for the hydraulic drive system will be preferably renewables (wind, solar) or charged/raised by excess energy from the grid. A Programmable Electric Controller (39), is connected to the gearing system (4) allows responsive control of the system by automatically switching on and off the mechanism as demand requires, regulating its speed and protecting against overloads. However a controller (39) is not needed if you do not wish to adjust the amount of power being generated at any time. The mechanism will operate perfectly without the controller however you will only have a consistent drop speed and power generation.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the hydraulic drive system powered by electric power created from renewables or by surplus energy from the grid. 2. When electricity is needed the hydraulic cyliner is released and the weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft. 3. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 4. The spinning rotors energy is transferred to the appropriate rotational speed by the gearing system. 5. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 6. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated.

Please refer to Fig.2, an assembled perspective of Spiral Buoyancy Tank version of the device with a horizontal generator, As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a plunger shaft (2), spiral rotor or cog (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9) electronic controller (39), hydraulic ram pump (10), liquid/supply (11), tank inlet supply (12), weight inlet supply (13), weight inlet door (14), weight outlet door (15), water tank outlet (16), water/liquid tank (17), hydroelectric turbine (18) and a waterproof housing (32).

The weight (1), of this version of device needs to be a tank filled with water. The weight will have an inlet and outlet door/valve, so that it can be filled before the start of each cycle and be emptied at the end.

The hydraulic ram pump (10) is an optional attachment for the Buoyancy tank version. It becomes very useful in areas where there is no electric power but a supply of running water. It can be used instead of a water pump to fill the tank, however most mains supplies have the required pressure to raise the water without the need for a hydraulic ram pump.

The water/liquid supply (11) may need a pump depending on your mains water pressure and the height of the device. However most homes will not need one for their energy storage requirements. Please note that any liquid can be used and the denser the better to increase the buoyancy of the weight. Seawater would be a good cheap abundant choice or simply adding salt to the water in the tank would be feasible if you recycles the water supply.

The tank inlet supply (12) must be positioned so that the water fills the tank but does not cover the weight (1).

The weight inlet supply (13) must be positioned above the weight inlet door (14).

The weight inlet door (14) must be positioned below the weight inlet supply (13).

The weight outlet door (15) is for discharging the water from at the end of each cycle. This allows the weight to be lifted with much less force to conserve energy and improve efficiency.

The water tank outlet (16) pipe is to discharge the water from the tank so that the filled weight (1) can be released from its locks (21) and dropped to begin it's cycle.

The tank (17) contains the device and must be made from a material strong enough to hold the weight of the water and the device.

The hydroelectric turbine (18) is optional and fitted to the outlet pipe. When the water from the tank is discharged it powers the turbine generating more electricity.

The electric generator in this design and in all buoyancy versions will need to be housed in a waterproof enclosre (32) to avoid conduction in to the water.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The empty sealed weight is raised by the tank being filled with water from the mains or any supply. 2. Locks automatically engage when the weight reaches the maximum height. 3. The tank empties and electricity is generated by the hydroelectric turbine. 4. The weight inlet valve opens and the weight is filled with water. 5. When electricity is needed the locks are released and the weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft. 6. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 7. The spinning rotors energy is transferred to the appropriate rotational speed by the gearing system. 8. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 9. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated. 10. The weight outlet valve opens and the weight is emptied of water. This process generates more electricity with the hydroelectric turbine on the outlet pipe.

Please refer to Fig.3, an assembled perspective of a Toothed version of the device and Fig.9 for an exploded perspective of a toothed version of the device. As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a toothed plunger shaft (38), cog (37), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (40), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9), drive shaft (19) and an electronic controller (39).

The Drive shaft (19) connects and transfers the energy from the main cog (39) to the gearing system (4). The drive shaft needs to be made from a strong enough material to withstand the forces generated when the device is in operation for example a strong metal.

The main Cog (37) transfers the lateral motion of the (38) plunger shaft falling into rotational motion. It is then connected to the gearing system (4), the gearing system connects to the drive shaft (19) which connects to the electric generator (5).

The Toothed plunger (38) must be used in conjunction with a cog (37). The cog and shaft should be lubricated to minimise wear on the mechanism. The toothed plunger must be located in the centre of the gravity of the weight to ensure that there is always a downward force of earth’s gravity acting on it.

The Toothed support / guiding shaft (40) can be made from any material that is strong enough to hold the weight of the mechanism such as, concrete, steel any strong metal, epoxy resin, carbon fibre, wood etc... It is connected from the ground to the braces that hold the cog in place. The support shaft holds the mechanism in place to guide the plunger (38) down the shaft (40), it also supports the weight of the structure once the raising support is removed. The support shaft has bearings on the inside to guide the help guide the plunger shaft (38) and minimise friction. There is less friction in this design compared to the inverse spiral support shaft as there is no need for an inverse spiral to counter the spinning weight.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the hydraulic drive system powered by electric power created from renewables or by surplus energy from the grid. 2. When electricity is needed the hydraulic cylinder is released and the weight and the toothed plunger shaft falls through the support / guide shaft. 3. The main cog is connected to the toothed shaft and is forced to rotate as the mechanism falls. 4. The spinning cogs energy is transferred to the appropriate rotational speed by the gearing system. 5. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 6. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated.

Please refer to Fig.4, is an assembled perspective view of the Buoyancy Tidal version of the device with a horizontal generator. As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a plunger shaft (2), spiral rotor or cog (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9) and an electronic controller (39), air filled cavity (20), locking mechanism (21), and water (oceans) (22).

The weight on this version of the device needs to be buoyant. As this is the tidal version it needs an internal sealed air (gas) filled cavity (20) to ensure that it is more buoyant than seawater.

The locking mechanism (21) automatically engage by the force of the weight (1) being pulled up by buoyancy. It holds the stored potential energy in the weight (1) for later release when electric power is needed. Any locking mechanism (21) that can support the weight can be used, however solenoid would probably do the job best.

The water level (22) is automatically raised and lowered by the power of the moons gravity, known as tidal energy. This means that the device requires no electrical power what so ever to operate and allows a more controlled approach to generating electricity from traditional tidal power as the weight can be released along a much larger time scale. These tidal versions of the device should be located in areas where tidal resonance is high to maximise it's potential power generation. Artificially constructed tidal resonance harbours could also be utilised to achieve the same affect.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the completely green energy, tidal power and it's natural buoyancy in seawater. 2. Locks automatically engage when the weight reaches the maximum height at high tide. 3. When electricity is needed and the tide is low the locks are released and the weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft 4. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 5. The spinning rotors energy is transferred to the appropriate rotational speed by the gearing system. 6. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 7. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated. 8. As the tide rises, the device is elevated and electricity is again generated.

Please refer to Fig.5, is an assembled perspective of the Spiral version with a horizontal generator integrated into the foundations (23) of a house (24). As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a plunger shaft (2), spiral rotor or cog (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9) and an electronic controller (39).

The house in this configuration and it's foundations are used as part of the main weight for the device. This shows how it can be incorporated into the build of new homes saving space and improving the efficiency of the system as there is no loss of energy from transportation. The device is charged by renewables positioned on the house. The excess energy is stored in the device by releasing the weight rather than goes into the grid.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The house is raised by the hydraulic cylinders powered by electric power created from renewables placed on the house. 2. When electricity is needed the hydraulic cylinders are released and the house, weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft 3. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 4. The spinning rotors energy is transferred to the appropriate rotational speed by the gearing system. 5. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 6. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated.

Please refer to Fig.6, is an assembled perspective of the Buoyancy Tidal version with a horizontal generator and the addition of boat supports. As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a spiral plunger shaft (2), spiral rotor (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9) and an electronic controller (39), weight cavity (20), locking mechanism (21), water level (22), boat dock supports (25) and a boat / ship (26).

The boat dock supports (25) the boat / ship in place. The boat (26) acts as additional weight on top of the weight. The boats (26) simply parks in the dock supports (25) at high tide adding extra weight and potential energy to the system.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the completely green energy, tidal power and it's natural buoyancy in seawater. 2. Locks automatically engage when the weight reaches the maximum height at high tide. 3. A boat parks on the dock and the supports are raised. 4. When electricity is needed and the tide is low the locks are released and the boat and weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft. 5. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 6. The spinning rotors energy is transferred to the appropriate rotational speed by the gearing system. 7. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 8. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated. 9. As the tide raises, the device also raises along with the boat and electricity is again generated.

Please refer to Fig. 13, Fig. 12 and Fig. 11 for the that are assembled perspective, exploded perspective, and assembled cross sectional views, respectively, of a spiral version of the device with spiral gears according to the present invention. As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a plunger shaft (2), spiral rotor (3), spiral gearing system (28), a drive shaft (19), a drive shaft support (48), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9) and an electronic controller (39).

As seen the main difference in this configuration is the gearing system and generator. The system utilises a spiral gearing system (28) in which the main cog is fixed horizontally to the spiral rotor. This allows a spiral gear (28) to be fitted to the spiral cog. The spiral gear (28) is then attached to a drive shaft (19) which is then attached to a gearing system (4) that is attached to an electric generator (5). The spiral gear and drive shaft are attached to the main support shaft via the drive support shaft (48). The Drive shaft support (48) hold the spiral gear in place and supports the weight of both the drive shaft and spiral gear. To optimise efficiency spiral bevel or spiral hypoid gears should be used in this formation, however any gearing system could be used.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the hydraulic drive system powered by electric power created from renewables or by surplus energy from the grid. 2. When electricity is needed the hydraulic cylinder is released and the weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft. 3. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 4. The spinning rotors energy is transferred by a spiral gear and drive shaft to the gearing system. 5. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 6. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated.

Please refer to Fig. 14, an assembled perspective of the spiral version with a horizontal generator and a submarine conversion. As seen the device consists of a weight with a cavity (1), a plunger shaft (2), spiral rotor (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9) electronic controller (39), water (oceans) (22), waterproof enclosure (32), wind farm (33), air compressor (34), vents (35), and a valve (36).

As seen in the diagram in this configuration is similar to the buoyancy tidal version with a few subtle differences. In this version instead of simple doors on the weight (1) it will need vents (35) and valves (36) similar to that used in a ballast tank. The weight is attached to an air compressor (34) that is supplied air by an (preferably cyclical) air compressor (34) powered by a wind turbine (33). As with all buoyancy versions of this system the electric generator will need to be enclosed in a waterproof enclosure (32). This version is ideal to be placed in deep sea wind farms such as that in the north sea. The main advantage being that they the sea level in these places is not significantly effected by tides, therefore the energy can be stored in the raised weight technically indefinitely, without the need to release it before the tides change. Also it is powered solely by the wind so there is no need for electrical power for operation.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The vents open and the cavity in the ballast tank fills with seawater. 2. The weight falls under the pull of the Earth's gravity because the density has changed. 3. The weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft. 4. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 5. The spinning rotors energy is transferred to the appropriate rotational speed by the gearing system. 6. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 7. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated. 8. Compressed air supplied by the wind farm is pumped through the valve and forces the water out of the cavity. 9. The buoyancy of the weight is changed and the weight raises and electricity is again generated on the upward cycle as the weight is elevated by the tides (moon).

Please refer to Fig. 15, is an assembled perspective of a spiral version of the device with a counter generator on top. As seen the device consists of a weight (1), a spiral plunger (2), spiral rotor (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9), electronic controller (39) counter weight (42), counter rotor (43), counter gears (44), counter controller (45), and a non-spiral support shaft (47).

As seen in the diagram the main difference between this version and the standard spiral version is that there are two spiral generators attached to the plunger. The first is positioned the same as usual below the raised weight (1) and the second the counter spiral generator is attached to the top above the weight (1). The counter spiral generator consists of a counter rotor (42), counter generator (43), counter gears (44) and a counter controller (45). The counter spiral rotor (42) consists of a hole with an inverse spiral causing it to spin counter to the rotation of the main spiral rotor (3).

The other unique design feature is the non-spiral support and guide shaft (47). This is similar in design to the spiral support used in the toothed version, the main difference being it will need to be longer in order to reach and support the counter spiral generator.

The counter spiral generator increases the overall efficiency of the system by reducing the friction compared to the conventional design. This is achieved as the support and guide shaft will not need an inverse spiral to counter the weights (1) rotation caused by the main spiral rotors (3) motion.

This is because the counter spiral generator with it's inverse spiral will counter the rotational motion caused by the main spiral generator. There is less surface area contact between the counter rotor and plunger shaft (2) compared to the plunger shaft (2) and inverse spiral support shaft(7) and therefore less frictional losses.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the hydraulic drive system powered by electric power created from renewables or by surplus energy from the grid. 2. When electricity is needed the hydraulic cylinder is released and the weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotors guided by the support shaft. 3. As the spiral plunger is pushed through both spiral rotors by the force of gravity acting on the weight both the rotors start to spin. 4. The inverse spiral in the counter generator stops the weight from rotating and reduces the friction compared to an inverse spiral support shaft set-up. 5. The spinning rotors energy is transferred by a to the horizontal generators by use of gearing systems. 6. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated.

Please refer to Fig. 16, is an assembled perspective of a spiral weight version of the device with a horizontal generator. As seen the device consists of a large plunger weight (46), spiral rotor or cog (3), gearing system (4), electric generator (5), support / guiding shaft (6), quartz landing pad (7), raising support (8), power supply (9), electronic controller (39), and a spiral weight raising support (49).

As seen in the diagram, the main difference between this design and the standard configuration is the unique design of the weight (46). The weight (46) and plunger shaft (46) are one and the same thing. In this design the centre of gravity is increased reducing the stress of the support shaft caused by wind etc.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the hydraulic drive system powered by electric power created from renewables or by surplus energy from the grid. 2. When electricity is needed the hydraulic cylinder is released and the weight and plunger shaft fall through the spiral rotor guided by the support shaft. 3. As the spiral plunger is pushed through the spiral rotor by the force of gravity acting on the weight, the rotor starts to spin. 4. The spinning rotor energy is transferred by a spiral gear and drive shaft to the gearing system. 5. The gears are attached to the electric generator and force it to spin, generating electricity. 6. At the end of the cycle the plunger shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated.

Please refer to Fig.17 and Fig. 21 for an assembled perspective, and a hydraulic schematic diagram of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a piston driven generator with a standard assembly configuration according to the present invention. In Fig. 17 as seen the drawing consists of a Reservoir (1), Pressure Check / Release Valve (4), direction control valve (5), Hydraulic Cylinder (6), Piston (7), Weight (9), Electric Controller (12), smaller piston (14), crank shaft (15), drive wheel (16), Drive Shaft (17), gearing system (18) an electric generator (19) and a power supply (20).

As seen in the diagram the Hydraulic Gravity Battery consists of the same principle of the other designs the but a different execution through a two way hydraulic drive system. The smart trick in this design is using the same electric generator (19) to both lift the weight (9) as well as generate the electricity. The electric generator (19) is attached to the gearing system (18) that is then connected to a drive shaft (17) that is connected to a drive wheel (16) that is connected to a crank shaft (15) which is connected to a piston (14). This classic set-up that is used in all internal combustion car engines effectively converts mechanical energy into electrical energy and back again.

The piston (14) is connected to the hydraulic drive system by hydraulic piping with the relevant pressure gauges as shown in the hydraulic schematic diagrams (FIG. 20,21) but not here. The relevant components are shown here including the directional control valve (5), attached to the reservoir (1) regulated by the pressure release valve (4). The main components are regulated by the electric controller (12) which will have adjustable algorithms in the form of programs so that the user can optimise efficiency depending on their needs.

The hydraulic drive system is then connected to the main hydraulic cylinder (6) through the relevant piping to drive the main large piston (7) that will lift the weight (9). In this example the power supply is renewable in the form of wind turbines and solar panels (20) situated on top of the main weight (9). This allows a neat cycle where the electric generator can lift the weight (9) using green energy and be stored in the form of gravity and then converting the gravitational energy back in to kinetic energy which can be converted in to electrical energy, to be generated as needed when the sun isn’t shining, or wing isn’t blowing.

Please refer to Fig. 21 for a hydraulic schematic diagram of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a piston driven generator. As seen the schematic diagram consists of a reservoir (1) connected to the relevant hydraulic piping with the relevant pressure gauges for monitoring of the system. The hydraulic fluid is driven by a gear pump (2) and regulation of the pressure is provided by the check release valve (4) where excess pressure that builds up in the system is released to ensure that the system does not go critical. The fluid is driven through the directional control valve (5) which is the brains & heart of the system. The relevant solenoid valves are opened and closed in the relevant sequence in order to raise the weight (9) and store the gravitational energy. Then reversed to release the weight (9) and generate electricity.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the hydraulic drive system powered by electric power created from renewables or by surplus energy from the grid. 2. When electricity is needed the electric controller kicks in and starts the process of the hydraulic drive system by starting an adjustable algorithm (programs) which control the solenoids in the directional control valve. 3. This process consists of opening valves to pipes B and D to increase the flow and pressure in pipe D and move the small piston (14). 4. The crank shaft converts the lateral motion into rotational motion by means of a drive wheel and drive shaft. 5. The gearing system efficiently gears the rotational energy from the drive shaft to the relevant rotational speed needed by the Electric Generator dictated by the users demands. This is achieved by the electric controllers algorithms use of the difference equations (an algorithmic difference engine.) 6. Valve D is closed and valve C is opened whilst valve B remains open. The pressure in pipe C increases forcing the small piston (14) down. 7. The crank shaft converts the lateral motion into rotational motion by means of a drive wheel and drive shaft on the downward stroke completing the cycle of the drive wheel. The momentum of each cycle on the drive wheel is carried on to the next as the speed increases. 8. The drive shaft is connected to a gearing system attached to an electric generator allowing the rotational energy to be converted into electricity. 9. The pressure release valve offers a safety backup releasing any excess pressure that builds up in the system back into the hydraulic reservoir. 10. All the hydraulic pipes feed back to the hydraulic reservoir to complete the cycle as in every hydraulic drive system. 11. At the end of the cycle the large piston makes contact with the quartz landing pad inside the cylinder and more electricity is generated. 12. Repeat as needed by energy requirements!

Please refer to Fig. 18 is an assembled perspective view of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a hydrostatic transmission version of the device. As seen in the diagram the set-up and operation of this configuration is very similar to the standard set-up in Fig. 17. The main difference is the means by which the energy is converted into electricity. A hydrostatic transmission (10) is used to effectively gear up the pressure of the hydraulic fluid before it is forced through a hydroelectric turbine (11) where the kinetic energy is converted into electricity. A Hydrostatic Transmission with fixed or variable hydraulic pumps and fixed or variable motor combinations provide an extended range of rotor speeds and torques.

Fig. 20 is a hydraulic schematic diagram of a Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a hydrostatic transmission. As seen this is a hydraulic schematic diagram to help hydraulic engineers. It simply shows the same set-up of Fig. 18 however it is in hydraulic schematic format the same format as Fig. 21. Technically you could could use the same gear pump that drives the hydraulic fluid to generate the electricity if you simply attached a generator to it, however it may be more efficient to use a separate specialised one.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the hydraulic cylinder powered by electric power created from renewables or by surplus energy from the grid. 2. When electricity is needed the electric controller kicks in and starts the process of the hydraulic drive system by starting an adjustable algorithm (programs) which control the solenoids in the directional control valve. 3. This process consists of opening valves to pipes B and D to increase the flow and pressure in pipe D and move the small piston (14). 4. The hydrostatic transmission acts as the gearing system in this set-up allowing the pressure of the fluid to be increased or decreased. 5. A hydroelectric turbine converts the kinetic energy from the fluid into electrical energy. 6. The pressure release valve offers a safety backup releasing any excess pressure that builds up in the system back into the hydraulic reservoir. 7. All the hydraulic pipes feed back to the hydraulic reservoir to complete the cycle as in every hydraulic drive system. 8. At the end of the cycle the large piston makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated. 9. Repeat as needed!

Fig. 22 is an assembled perspective view of a Buoyancy Version of Hydraulic Gravity Battery with a piston driven generator. In this design the set-up is to try and maximise the use of gravity for the entire operation. This means that the device can operate with no need for electrical input what so ever. It simply converts the gravitational energy in to electricity similar in concept to the design in Fig. 4 however the drive system is hydraulic. As seen by the diagram it is similar in set-up to Fig. 17 however there are a few key difference. Firstly the electrical power generation unit consisting of the smaller drive piston (14), crank shaft (15), drive wheel (16), drive shaft (17) gearing system (18) and the electric generator (19) will need to be housed in a vacuum enclosure (25) to maximise efficiency as the system will be operating underwater. The main advantage here is compared to traditional tidal energy systems is more control over the release of the stored energy.

The operation of this device is as follows: 1. The weight is raised by the completely green energy, tidal power and it's natural buoyancy in seawater. 2. Locks automatically engage when the weight reaches the maximum height at high tide. 3. When electricity is needed and the tide is low the locks are released and the force of gravity acting on the weight moves the large piston in the main cylinder towards the earth. 4. The vertical movement is converted into increased pressure in the hydraulic fluid and systematically fed to the relevant pipes in order to move the small piston. 5. The piston is connected to a crank shaft that moves a drive wheel and drive shaft. 6. The drive shaft is connected to the gears that are attached to the electric generator. 7. At the end of the cycle the large piston shaft makes contact with the quartz landing pad and more electricity is generated. 8. As the tide raises the main weight, the device also raises and electricity is again generated, converting the moons gravity in to electricity.

Key for Fig.l - Fig.16: 1. Weight 2. Spiral plunger 3. spiral rotor or cog 4. gearing system 5. electric generator 6. Counter Spiral support guiding shaft 7. quartz landing pad 8. hydraulic raising support 9. power supply 10. hydraulic ram pump 11. water supply 12. tank inlet supply 13. weight inlet supply 14. weight inlet door/latch/valve 15. weight outlet door 16. water tank outlet pipe 17. tank 18. hydroelectric turbine 19. crank shaft 20. weight cavity 21. locking mechanism 22. water level 23. house 24. foundations 25. boat dock supports 26. boat / ship 27. bearings holding gears & generator to support shaft 28. spiral gears (bevel / hypoid)

29. NA

30. NA

31. NA 32. waterproof enclosure 33. Wind farm 34. Air compressor 35. Vents 36. Valves 37. Cog 38. Toothed plunger 39. controller 40. Toothed support / guiding shaft 41. Liquid raising support 42. Counter weight 43. Counter rotor 44. counter gears 45. counter controller 46. Spiral Weight 47. Non-Spiral Support Shaft 48. Drive shaft support 49. Spiral Weight Raising Support

Key for Fig.17 - Fig.22 1. Reservoir 2. Gear Pump 3. Pressure Gages 4. Pressure Check / Release Valve 5. Direction Control Valve (Solenoids) 6. Hydraulic Cylinder 7. Piston 8. O Rings 9. Weight 10. Hydrostatic Transmission 11. Hydroelectric generator 12. Electric Controller 13. Locking Mechanism 14. Smaller Piston 15. Crank Shaft 16. Drive Wheel 17. Drive Shaft 18. gearing system 19. electric generator 20. Power supply (preferably renewables, solar & wind) 21. Weight Cavity 22. valves / doors 23. valves / doors 24. water level 25. Vacuum Enclosure 26. Quartz landing pad

Claims

Claims:

1. A Gravity Generator that converts gravitational energy into kinetic energy then to electrical energy by means of a suspended weight.

2. A suspended weight according to claim (1), that is raised by means of a raising support powered by renewable (solar, wind), surplus energy from the grid, by means of buoyancy & tidal power (moons gravity) in tidal areas or a water fed tank. (i.e. they can be place under boat at high tide.)

3. A raising support according to claim (2), that raises the weight by means of a hydraulic drive system powered by renewables such as wind, solar or surplus grid energy. Or by use of buoyancy and a liquid such as filing a tank with a liquid containing the mechanism, or placing the mechanism in the oceans tidal area and using tidal power to raise the weight.

4. A plunger shaft or two way hydraulic drive system according to claim (1) that is used in order to convert the gravitational energy into electrical energy.

5. A Spiral or toothed plunger shaft according to claim (4), connected to the weight passes through the spiral rotor or cog powered by gravity, once the raising support (hydraulic cylinder, water) is removed.

6. A Spiral Rotor or cog according to claim (1), connected to the spiral or toothed shaft converts lateral movement into rotational (kinetic) energy.

7. A locking mechanism according to claim (1), is required where the raising support used is water, in order hold the stored potential energy in the weight for later release when power is needed.

8. A gearing system according to claim (1), connected to the spiral rotor, cog or drive shaft to allow control of the speed at which the electric generator is spinning and consequendy the amount of electricity that is being generated.

9. A Programmable Electric Controller according to claim (1), connected to the relevant gears allow responsive control of the system, automatically switching on and off the mechanism as demand requires, regulating its speed and protecting against overloads.

10. An Electric Generator according to claim (1), connected to the magnetic gears generates the electricity by converting the rotational energy into electrical energy.

11. Supporting Struts according to claim (1), connected from the ground to the spiral rotor, cog or hydraulic drive system, hold the mechanism in place to guide the shaft, support the weight of the structure once the raising support is removed or the hydraulic drive system is engaged and stop any unwanted counter rotation in the mechanism.

12. Quartz Landing Pad according to claim (1), located beneath the spiral plunger, generates electrical energy when the spiral plunger makes contact and squeezes the pad at the end of each cycle.

13. Electrical power can be generated, according to claim (1) when the mechanism is being raised by the supporting strut, as the mechanism will operate in reverse. Also the net power to the grid will be positive where the raising support used is buoyancy and a liquid, such as using water in the oceans and tidal power to raise the weight.

14. Optional solar panels & wind turbines can be installed on top of the device according to claim (1), in order to to make use of its exposure if conditions are optimal and allow self sufficiency.

15. According the claim (1) the Buoyant version can also be placed in a tank that fills with liquid that acts as the raising support If a turbine is fitted to the outlet pipe power can also be generated when the tank is emptied.

16. The buoyant versions according to claim (1) can be placed in tidal area to utilise the moons gravity.