Wind Energy Stored In Gravity

pinshape

Human: Harnessing Wind Power in Gravity Storage The Challenge Design a 3D model that captures wind energy effectively. Technology connections Energy conversion, movable parts. The Concept This innovative idea is being used in renewable energy: Storing wind and solar energy in gravity. This simple solution eliminates the need for expensive batteries that harm the environment. We can use generated energy to lift heavy objects and retrieve it later by using the weight of the lifted object to turn gears on its way back down. A gravity storage system is full when the heavy object is lifted all the way up. Real-world applications involve weights lowered into deep holes or held in above-ground silos. How It Works Energy is generated with a vertical wind turbine on the left side. A movable battery section in the middle can be adjusted to charge or discharge the gravity storage system. On the right, there's a fan that reproduces summer breezes after energy is caught and stored. Multiple rack gears can be combined to increase storage capacity indefinitely. A small release lever keeps gears moving in one direction on top of the movable battery area. I use 8x7x22mm ball bearings for smooth parts movement: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002BBGTK6 Video: http://youtu.be/l1YajkmqFpw and https://youtu.be/9IRc9xG2ers Check out Bill Gates discussing gravity energy storage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RH5Lgv-4te8 Visit http://www.gravitybattery.info/ for a proposed home use solution illustration. Miniature vertical wind turbine design: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:971564 Printing Instructions I've included full models of the turbine and fan, along with sliced versions for easier printing. Reduce fan blades, reverse them, or attach a motor to customize. Print in ABS at .2 layer height and 30% fill. Rack gears function as battery weight, so print them at 100% fill or add additional weight for increased torque. Ask questions if you need help!