Energy Storage Devices and Methods of Using Same

摘要

The invention is directed to various energy storage devices and methods of using the same. The energy storage device takes advantage of the height difference between the bottom and the surface of a body of water. The energy storage device utilizes the movement of a mass, such as weights or floats, to store energy as potential energy and to generate energy by releasing the potential energy. Weights attached to tethers are pulled toward the surface of the water by a motor/generator powered by energy to be stored, thereby storing potential energy. Allowing the weights to fall downward releases the potential energy and reverses the motor/generator to generate electricity. Floats attached to tethers are pulled toward the bottom of the water by a motor/generator powered by energy to be stored, thereby storing potential energy. Allowing the floats to rise releases the potential energy and reverses the motor/generator to generate electricity.