| 摘要 |
<p>The energy storage system is partic. applicable to wind, tidal, or water current conversion where the power is variable and often insufficient for satisfactory operation of an electric generator. A windmill (4) (or water turbine) is used to raise water from a sump (2) via a pipe (3) to be discharged into a large tank (6) at the top of a tower (7). The tank is supported underneath by two catches (19) which move aside when the water reaches a preset level, allowing the tank to fall, and as it does so a gear train (15,16) couples the cable supporting the tank to a generator. Thus electricity is generated and the rate of fall of the tank governed by the generator load. When the tank reaches the bottom a post (18) in the sump forces open the hinged base of the tank, allowing all water to escape. A counterweight (14) attached to the tank support cables has been drawn up as the tank fell, and now rises, returning the tank to the top of the tower.</p> |
