초록 ▼

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-generat

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.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A method comprising:admitting a quantity of gas into a cylinder device having a moveable piston in communication with a mechanical linkage;allowing the quantity of gas to expand and drive the piston within the cylinder device;injecting a liquid into the quantity of gas to prov

What is claimed is: 1. A method comprising:admitting a quantity of gas into a cylinder device having a moveable piston in communication with a mechanical linkage;allowing the quantity of gas to expand and drive the piston within the cylinder device;injecting a liquid into the quantity of gas to provide thermal energy for absorption by the expanding gas;transmitting power out of the cylinder device via the mechanical linkage; andexhausting expanded gas and liquid from the cylinder device.