Multiple accumulator systems and methods of use thereof

摘要

The invention is an accumulator system in which multiple elastomeric accumulators are attached in series or parallel in order to generate total differential pressure in excess of that generated in a non-series system. Also disclosed is a “stacked” accumulator system. The system stores energy when the accumulators deform from their original shape in response to the flow of a pressurized fluid. The stored energy is available for use when the fluid is released from the accumulators and the accumulators return to their original shape.

主权项

1. An accumulator system comprising:
a housing having a first end and a second end; a first bladder having a tubular configuration attached to the first end and the second end of the housing; a second bladder having a tubular configuration and a closed end, the second bladder being located within the first bladder and attached to the second end of the housing; a first conduit attached to the first end of the housing on the outside of the first bladder; a first switching valve attached to the first conduit; a pump/motor attached to the first switching valve; a second switching valve attached to the pump/motor; a second conduit attached to the second switching valve and attached to the second end of the housing at a position which is inside of the first bladder and outside of the second bladder; a third conduit attached to the first end of the housing at a position to the inside of the first bladder and attached to the first switching valve; a fourth conduit attached to the second switching valve and attached to the second end of the housing at a position which is inside of the second bladder.