FIELD OF INVENTION

The present embodiment relates to an energy storage system and method. More particularly, it relates to the gravitation-based energy storage system and method for storing energy while moving a mass unit from a lower elevation to an upper elevation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Variable Renewable energy devices like solar PV and Wind turbines generate variable and intermittent power output. While these renewable energy devices are also not available throughout the twenty four hour cycle of the day. Power Grids are required to balance demand and supply at all instances. As on the current day variable renewable energy devices penetration is low, the variability and intermittency is managed by other reliable sources like Gas Turbine, Hydro power, Other thermal power like Coal, Liginte etc. as the gap arises due to variable renewable energy devices can be adequately filled by these reliable sources. However as the variable renewable energy penetration increases, the power grid will not be able to afford large gaps in demand and supply due to intermittency or unavailability. Energy storage is one of the most reliable solutions to such a problem.

There are various types of energy storage concepts available, however cost and environment friendliness are key criteria for an effective solution. The present disclosure stores energy in the form of gravitational potential. The present disclosure caters to power grids and variable renewable energy devices to store energy. Present disclosure is a promising solution to deliver energy storage in a much cost efficient and environmentally friendly way as it uses basic engineering material which does not have any significant adverse effect on the environment and ecology. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing, an aspect of the present disclosure provides an energy storage system including an inclined plane extending between a lower storage area and an upper storage area such that the lower storage area is at a lower elevation than the upper storage area. A number of mass units configured to move between the lower storage area and the upper storage area in a closed loop or in an open loop arrangement. A number of mass maneuvering means to maneuver the number of mass units between the lower storage area and the upper storage area. A number of electric-motor generators operatively coupled to the mass units that are configured to harness electrical energy from an electric power source unit to carry the mass units from the lower storage area to the upper storage area and to deliver electrical energy to an electrical power sink unit during falling of the mass units from the upper storage area to the lower storage area under the force of gravity, along the inclined plane and an external mass transfer mechanism configured to load the mass units from the mass stacking regions on mass carriers and to unload the mass units from the mass carriers on the mass stacking regions.

In an embodiment, the number of mass units are maneuvered between the lower storage area and the upper storage area by the number of mass carriers that are guided by a guiding means along the inclined plane.

In an embodiment, the number of electric -motor generators is operatively coupled to the one or more mass carriers through one or more tension member winders and a plurality of tension members.

In an embodiment, the external mass transfer mechanism further includes a holder configured to hold the mass units from the mass stacking regions to enable maneuvering of the mass units on to the one or more mass carriers through a guiding unit of a support frame of the external mass transfer mechanism for loading the one or more mass carriers and to hold one or more mass units from the one or more mass carriers to enable maneuvering of the one or more mass units on to the one or more mass stacking regions through a guiding unit of a support frame of the external mass transfer mechanism for unloading the mass carrier.

In an aspect, an external mass transfer mechanism for an energy storage system includes a holder that is configured to hold the number of mass units from the number of mass stacking regions of a lower storage area or the upper storage area. A support frame defining a guiding unit for maneuvering the holder from one end to the other end of the support frame to load/unload mass carriers with the one or more mass units in the lower storage area or the upper storage area of the energy storage system.

In an embodiment, a number of rollers are mounted on a pair of arms extending from either side of the holder for holding the mass unit and a plurality of wheels configured to roll on a guide track provided on either side of the support frame that enables movement of the external mass transfer mechanism in the lower storage area or the upper storage area while loading or unloading of the mass carrier with the one or more mass units.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an energy storage system including a rail track provided on an inclined plane extending between a lower storage area and an upper storage area such that the lower storage area is at a lower elevation than the upper storage area. A number of mass units are configured to move between the lower storage area and the upper storage area in a closed loop or in an open loop arrangement that are guided by the rail-track. A number of mass maneuvering means to maneuver the number of mass units between the lower storage area and the upper storage area. A number of electric-motor generators operatively coupled to the mass units that are configured to harness electrical energy from an electric power source unit to carry the mass units from the lower storage area to the upper storage area and to deliver electrical energy to an electrical power sink unit during falling of the mass units from the upper storage area to the lower storage area under the force of gravity, along the rail-track and an external mass transfer mechanism configured to load the mass units from the mass stacking regions on mass earners and to unload the mass units from the mass carriers on the mass stacking regions.

In an embodiment, the one or more mass units are guided on the rail-track by virtue of a plurality of rail engaging means provided with one or more mass carriers.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides an energy storage system including a road provided on an inclined plane extending between a lower storage area and an upper storage area such that the lower storage area is at a lower elevation than the upper storage area. A number of mass units are configured to move between the lower storage area and the upper storage area in a closed loop or in an open loop arrangement that are guided by the number of guiding means on the road. A number of mass maneuvering means to maneuver the number of mass units between the lower storage area and the upper storage area. A number of electricmotor generators operatively coupled to the mass units that are configured to harness electrical energy from an electric power source unit to carry the mass units from the lower storage area to the upper storage area and to deliver electrical energy to an electrical power sink unit during falling of the mass units from the upper storage area to the lower storage area under the force of gravity, along the road.

In an embodiment, the number of electric -motor generators is operatively coupled to the one or more one mass carrier through a tension member winding and a plurality of tension members.

In an embodiment, a number of guiding means are provided on the road and embedded in the one or more mass carriers that are configured to guide the one or more mass carriers on the road.

In an embodiment, a number of ground engaging means coupled to the mass carrier is configured to engage with the walls of a trench to guide the mass carrier along the inclined plane between the upper storage area and the lower storage area. In an embodiment, a powering means is laid along the inclined plane, the rail or along the road that is configured to power the mass carrier to enable maneuvering of the mass unit carried by the mass carrier between the lower storage area and the upper storage area.

In an embodiment, the powering means is configured for the mass carrier to maneuver between the upper storage area and the lower storage area is integral to the mass carrier.

In yet another, the present disclosure provides an energy storage system exhibiting a charging mode and a discharging mode that includes an inclined plane extending between a lower storage area and an upper storage area such that the lower storage area is at a lower elevation than the upper storage area. A number of mass units configured to move between the lower storage area and the upper storage area in a closed loop or in an open loop arrangement. A number of mass maneuvering means to maneuver the number of mass units between the lower storage area and the upper storage area. A number of electric -motor generators operatively coupled to the mass units, the energy storage system is configured to charge while carrying one or more mass units by the mass carrier from the lower storage area to the upper storage area and to discharge during falling of the one or more mass units by the mass carrier from the upper storage area to the lower storage area under the force of gravity and an external mass transfer mechanism configured to load the mass units from the mass stacking regions on mass carriers and to unload the mass units from the mass carriers on the mass stacking regions.

In an aspect, an energy storing method comprising; extending an inclined plane between a lower storage area and an upper storage area such that the lower storage area is at a lower elevation than the upper storage area; maneuvering one or more mass units between the lower storage area and the upper storage area in a closed loop or in an open loop arrangement; coupling one or more electric -motor generators operatively to the one or more mass units ; harnessing electrical energy from an electric power source unit by the one or more electric-motor generators while carrying one or more mass units from the lower storage area to the upper storage area; delivering electrical energy to an electrical power sink unit while falling of the one or more mass units from the upper storage area to the lower storage area under the force of gravity; loading the one or more mass units is from the one or more mass stacking regions on the one or more mass carriers and unloading from the one or more mass carriers on the one or more mass stacking regions by an external mass transfer mechanism.

In yet another aspect, an energy storage system including a continuous path provided on an inclined plane extending between a lower storage area and an upper storage area such that the lower storage area is at a lower elevation than the upper storage area. A number of mass carriers carrying one or more mass units are configured to move along the continuous path between the lower storage area and the upper storage area in a closed loop arrangement and are guided by a guiding means. The mass carriers are configured to engage or disengage with either the guiding means or a mass maneuvering mechanism or both by virtue of a clutching means to maneuver the mass unit between the lower storage area and the upper storage area. An electric-motor generator operatively coupled to the number of mass units. The electric-motor generator is configured to harness electrical energy from an electric power source unit to carry one or more mass unit from the lower storage area to the upper storage area and to deliver electrical energy to an electrical power sink unit during falling of the one or more mass unit from the upper storage area to the lower storage area under the force of gravity, along the continuous path and an external mass transfer mechanism configured to load the one or more mass units from the one or more mass stacking regionson one or more mass carrier and to unload the one or more mass unit from the one or more mass carrier on the one or more mass stacking regions.

In an embodiment, the mass carriers are configured to load/unload with the mass units by virtue of a mass transfer mechanism. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and still further features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention becomes apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, especially when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, and wherein:

Fig 1 illustrates an isometric view of an energy storage system (100) according to an embodiment herein;

Fig. 2A illustrates an isometric view of an external mass transfer mechanism (122) deployed in a mass stacking region (112) of the energy storage system (100) of the energy storage system (100) according to an embodiment herein;

Fig. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a rail-track based energy storage system (300) according to an embodiment herein;

Fig. 4 illustrates an isometric view of a road- based energy storage system (400) according to an embodiment herein; and

Fig. 5 illustrates an isometric view of a closed loop based energy storage system (500) on the inclined plane according to an embodiment herein.

To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures.

DETAILED DESCRPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Various embodiments of the present invention provides an energy storage system and method thereof. The following description provides specific details of certain embodiments of the invention illustrated in the drawings to provide a thorough understanding of those embodiments. It should be recognized, however, that the present invention can be reflected in additional embodiments and the invention may be practiced without some of the details in the following description. The various embodiments including the example embodiments are now described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the various embodiments of the invention are shown. The invention may, however, be embodied in different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, the sizes of components may be exaggerated for clarity.

It is understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers that may be present. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Spatially relative terms, such as “top,” “bottom,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It is to be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the structure in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.

Embodiments described herein refer to plan views and/or cross-sectional views by way of ideal schematic views. Accordingly, the views may be modified depending on simplistic assembling or manufacturing technologies and/or tolerances. Therefore, example embodiments are not limited to those shown in the views but include modifications in configurations formed on the basis of the assembling process. Therefore, regions exemplified in the figures have schematic properties and shapes of regions shown in the figures exemplify specific shapes or regions of elements, and do not limit the various embodiments including the example embodiments.

The subject matter of example embodiments, as disclosed herein, is described with specificity to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, the inventors have contemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different features or combinations of features similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other technologies. Generally, the various embodiments including the example embodiments relate to an energy storage system and method thereof.

The term “exposed surface” of the inclined plane herein the description means the surface of the inclined plane that is in contact with the mass carrier or over which the mass carrier is guided/travelled/moved/rolled on the inclined plane.

The term “mass unit” or “mass units” as used herein the description means a unit made up of any material that occupies space. In an embodiment, the mass unit can be either of the compressible, rigid, flowable units. In another embodiment, the mass unit can exhibit any physical state.

The term “external mass transfer mechanism” as used herein the description means that the mass transfer mechanism that is external to the mass carrier or the mass unit.

The term “integral mass transfer means” or “integral mass transfer mechanism” is any mechanism/means or part of the “mass carrier” or “mass unit” including a mechanism configured to receive a mass onto the mass carrier or unload a mass from the mass carrier during both charging and discharging mode of the energy storage system presented here by the means of a mass guiding unit and a mass actuating structure powered by a power source.

In an embodiment, the power source of the “mass transfer mechanism” could be a natural power source such as gravity or heat or an electro-mechanical power source or an electrical power source.

The term “open loop system” herein refers to a path/track on the inclined plane of finite length extending from upper storage area to lower storage area ,with its termination points in both upper and lower storage areas, on which the mass unit travels by the means of a mass manoeuvring mechanism that is removably coupled to either of the mass units the mass unit travel path between the upper storage area and the lower storage area or a combination of the above which is configured to receive and manoeuvre one or more one mass unit between the upper and lower storage area as per requirement.

The term “mass guiding means” as used herein the description of system of present disclosure refers to an apparatus/system/means/device capable of guiding the mass unit carried by a mass carrier in an efficient way between the upper storage area and the lower storage area.

The term “closed loop system” herein refers to a continuous path/track on the inclined plane extending from the upper storage area to the lower storage area with no termination points i.e. in a closed loop. The closed loop arrangement includes a mass maneuvering mechanism or a mass guiding means or both of them running along the continuous path of the closed loop arrangement.

The term “clutching means” as used herein the description defines a mechanism/means to couple or decouple a unit/apparatus/device/system with another unit/apparatus/device/system of the present disclosure.

The term “mass maneuvering mechanism” or “mass maneuvering means” are interchangeably used herein, which defines a mechanism that is removably and operatively coupled to the electric-motor generator and the mass units carried by the mass carrier and is configured to convert the electrical energy of the electricmotor generator into mechanical energy in a way that can be utilized by the mass carrier in order to maneuver the mass units between an upper and a lower storage area. In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism enables maneuvering of the mass unit in a controlled way by the virtue of a motor generator operatively coupled to it. In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism can be a tension member driven maneuvering system or a fluid driven maneuvering system or a magnetically driven maneuvering system or a combination of above.

The cycles/sequences/operations/working defined for “mass carrier”, “first mass carrier” or “second mass carrier” is applicable for all the mass carriers that are configured adjacent to the “mass carrier”, “first mass carrier” or “second mass carrier” and for all other mass carriers that are operating in the system (500), according to an embodiment herein.

The term “electrical power source unit” as used herein the description means an electrical unit/grid or other electrical means that is capable enough to supply electrical energy or any other form of energy to the system of the present disclosure. The term “electrical power sink unit” as used herein the description means an electrical unit/grid or other electrical means that is capable of receiving electrical energy or any other form of energy from the system of the present disclosure. In an example, the “electrical power source unit” and the “electrical power sink unit” is a power plant.

The “electric-motor generator” as used herein the system of the present embodiment is a single device/system/apparatus that is capable to convert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy and to convert the electrical energy into the mechanical energy i.e. the same electrical machine operating as both electrical motor and electrical generator in charging and discharging mode of the system of present disclosure respectively.

The “mass carrier” as used herein the system of the present disclosure is a device/system/arrangement that is capable of receiving a mass unit onto it and unloading and mass unit from it and has means to engage with the mass manoeuvring mechanism and mass guiding means to maneuver between the upper storage area and lower storage area as required. In an example, the mass carrier could be a wagon, a trolley, etc. The multiplicity of the system of the present disclosure is adapted to eliminate discontinuity in power absorption from the electrical power source unit and power delivery to the electrical power sink unit.

In an embodiment the electric-motor generator is operatively coupled to one or more mass carriers through a transmission system and fluid pumping system with fluid guide ducts.

According to an embodiment, a mass maneuvering mechanism can include a number of mass carriers provided with a number of ground engaging means such as wheels or castors.

Fig. 1 illustrates an energy storage system (100). The energy storage system (100) includes an inclined plane (102), a lower storage area (104), an upper storage area (106), a mass maneuvering mechanism (107), a number of mass carriers (108), a number of mass units (110), one or more than one electric-motor generator (117), an electric power source unit (124) and an electric power sink unit (126).

The mass maneuvering mechanism (107) is configured to operatively couple the mass carrier (110) to the electric motor generator (117).

In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) is a tension member winder that is configured to maneuver the mass unit (110) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) by virtue of a number of tension member (118).

The term tension member winder here refers to a device capable of winding or looping the tension member. In an example, the tension member winder is a winch, a pulley, a hoisting device or the like.

The lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106) further includes a mass stacking region (112). The mass stacking region (112) is further provided with an external mass transfer mechanism (122). The lower storage area (104) includes one or more than one number of first mass stacking regions (112 A) and the upper storage area (106) include one or more than one number of second mass stacking regions (112B).

The mass carrier (108) is further equipped with a locking mechanism (not shown) for locking of the mass unit (110) placed on to the mass carrier (108). The mass unit locking mechanism of the mass carrier (108) can be controlled by hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical or electro -magnetic subsystems.

In an embodiment, the mass unit (110) has a cylindrical shaped structure that facilitates rolling of the mass unit (110) on one or more than one of the platform (209) of the mass stacking region (112) while loading/unloading on the mass carrier (108).

In an embodiment, the platform (209) can be made in various slopes /angle of inclinations in order to facilitate the movement and stacking of the mass units (110) in the mass stacking region (112) while loading/unloading on the mass carrier (108).

Fig. 2A illustrates an isometric view of the external mass transfer mechanism (122). The external mass transfer mechanism (122) includes a holder (202) to hold or grab the mass unit and a support frame (204).

The support frame (204) further includes a powering unit (206) and a guiding unit (208). The guiding unit (208) is configured to efficiently guide the mass units (110).

For loading the one or more number of mass units (110) on to the mass carrier (108), the holder (202) of the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is configured to hold/grab one or more number of mass units (110) from the mass stacking region (112) and through the guiding unit (208) of the support frame (204), the holder (202) enables maneuvering of the mass unit (110) onto the mass carrier (108) where the mass unit (110) is secured by the locking mechanism of the mass carrier (108). The powering unit (206) provides necessary maneuvering power that facilitates maneuvering of the mass unit (110) during the course when the mass unit (110) is being loaded onto the mass carrier (108).

For unloading the one or more number of mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108), the holder (202) of the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is configured to hold one or more number of mass units (110) (after unlocking the mass unit) from the mass carrier (108) and through the guiding unit (208) of the support frame (204), the holder (202) enables maneuvering of the mass unit (110) up to the mass stacking region (112) where the mass unit (110) is stacked in an organized manner. The powering unit (206) provides necessary maneuvering power that facilitates maneuvering of the mass unit (110).

In an embodiment, the holder (202) is configured to maneuver in all three spatial directions such as X, Y and Z directions with respect to the ground or to the surface on which the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is placed in the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106). . Further, the actuation of holder (202) in all three spatial directions can be enabled by electro -magnetic, pneumatic, mechanical or hydraulic sub-systems.

In an embodiment, the powering unit (206) is a rope and pulley arrangement that is configured to maneuver the holder (202) from one end to the other end of the support frame (204).

In an embodiment, the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is configured to move within the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106).

In an embodiment, there is provided a provision for locking the mass carrier (108) at a place while loading/unloading the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108).

The inclined plane (102) extends from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) at a certain angle of inclination with respect to the horizontal plane or ground. The lower storage area (104) is provided/constructed at a lower elevation than the upper storage area (106). The number of mass carriers (108) are operatively supported by the inclined plane (102). The number of mass units (110) are configured to load on the number of mass carriers (108) and unload from the mass carrier (108) upon requirement. The lower storage area (104) is provided with a first mass stacking region (112A) and the upper storage area (106) is provided with a second mass stacking region (112B) and accordingly the first mass stacking region (112A) and the second mass stacking region (112B) are provided with their respective external mass transfer mechanisms (122). The mass carrier (108) is operatively coupled to the motor-generator (117) the electric motor-generator (117) is operatively coupled to the electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126).

In an embodiment, the mass carrier (108) is operatively coupled to the motor generator (117) through a transmission system (not shown).

In an embodiment, the number of guides are configured to align/guide the tension members (118) throughout the way from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106).

The number of mass units (110) are configured to move between the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) or from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) by means of the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) and the mass carrier (108). In the charging mode of the energy storage system (100), the system (100) is configured to harness electrical energy from the electrical power source unit (124) while the mass unit (110) is moving from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) of the inclined plane (102) and in the discharging mode of the energy storage system (100), the system (100) is configured to deliver the electrical energy to the electrical power sink unit (126) while the mass unit (110) is moving from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) of the system (100).

The number of mass units (110) are configured to move between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106) in an open loop arrangement and in a closed loop arrangement. The guiding means is configured to guide the number of mass units (110) in a predefined path on the inclined path (102) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106) on the inclined plane (102).

While harnessing electrical energy from the electrical power source unit (124), the holder (202) of the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is configured to hold/grab the mass unit (110) from the first mass stacking region (112A) of the lower storage area (104) and place the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108). The mass carrier (108) carries the mass unit (110) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) of the system (100). The electric-motor generator (117) is configured to draw electrical energy from the electrical power source unit (124) and convert the extracted electrical energy into mechanical energy that is utilized by the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) while pulling the mass carrier (108) against the gravitational pull. Upon reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the upper storage area (106), the holder (202) of the external mass transfer mechanism (122) enables holding of the mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108) and placing the mass units (110) on to the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106). Consequently, the number of mass units (110) gets accumulated at the second mass stacking region (112B) provided at the upper storage area (106) of the energy storing system (100).

In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) is configured to pull the mass carrier (108) by virtue of the tension member (118) and the tension member winder (116). The tension member winder (116) derives its power from the electric-motor generator (117) that enables the tension member (118) to pull the mass carrier (108) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) against the gravitational pull.

In an embodiment, the mass carrier (108) carries the mass unit (110) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) at a desired rate. The desired rate is a rate where the system (100) reaches a point of mechanical and electrical equilibrium i.e electrical power supplied to the electric-motor generator (117) is equal to the power consumed in pulling up the mass earner (108) without causing any significant jerk in the entire mechanical setup (118) and thereby ensuring a smooth operation of the system (100).

Now, while delivering electrical energy to the electrical power sink unit (126), the holder (202) of the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is configured to hold the mass unit (110) from the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106) and place the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108). The mass carrier (108) carries the mass unit (110) from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104). The mass carrier (108) by virtue of gravitational pull caused by downward inclination between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104), gains kinetic energy between the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104). The gained kinetic energy of the mass carrier (108) concomitantly provides mechanical power to the mass maneuvering mechanism (107), which in turn provides mechanical energy to the electric-motor generator (117) operatively coupled to the mass carrier (110). The electric-motor generator (117) is configured to convert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy and supply the generated electrical energy to the electrical power sink unit (126). Upon reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the lower storage area (104), the holder (202) of the external mass transfer mechanism (122) hold the number of mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108) and place the mass units (110) on to the first mass stacking region (112A). Consequently, the number of mass units (110) gets accumulated at the first mass stacking region (112A) of the lower storage area (106) of the energy storing system (100).

In an embodiment, the gained kinetic energy of the mass carrier (108) concomitantly provides mechanical power to tension member winder (116) by virtue of the tension member (118), which in turn provides which provides mechanical energy to the electric-motor generator (117) operatively coupled to the mass carrier (110). In an embodiment, the mass earner (108) is configured to fall down under the force of gravity at a desired rate. The desired rate is a rate where the mechanical power provided to the electric-motor generator (117) corresponds to the electricity being generated from the electric-motor generator (117) at the rate required by the electrical power sink unit (126).

Further, the rate at which electrical energy is harnessed from the electrical power source unit (124) while the mass carrier (108) is moving from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) and the rate at which the electrical energy is delivered to the electrical power sink unit (126) while the mass carrier (108) is falling from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) under the force of gravity, is controlled by:

Controlling/varying the amount of mass carried by the mass carrier (108) between either ends of the inclined plane (102).

By changing the number of mass carriers (108) maneuvering between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104) of the inclined plane (102) at a time that can be implemented by changing the engagement configuration of the mass carrier (108) with each other.

By controlling the torque provided by the mass carriers (108) to the electricmotor generator (117).

By controlling the speed of the mass carriers (108) maneuvering between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104) of the inclined plane (102)

By controlling the inclination of the track or any combination of the said methods.

In an embodiment, an intermediate mass stacking region (not shown) can be provided between an upper end and a lower end of the inclined plane (102). The intermediate mass stacking region is further provided with the external mass transfer mechanism (122). In an embodiment, the mass units (110) are fabncated with moderate to high density material and are preferably fabricated in a shape that enables the mass units (110) to roll for easy while loading the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108) from the mass stacking region (112) and unloading the mass unit (110) from the mass carrier (108) to the mass stacking region (112). This geometrical feature of the mass unit (110), therefore: allows less energy intensive maneuvering of the mass unit (110) at the time of loading/unloading the mass unit (110).

In an embodiment, during charging mode of the system (100), the mass carrier (108) carries the mass unit (110) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106). Upon reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the upper storage area (106), the mass carrier (108) is unloaded/emptied by the external mass transfer mechanism (122) that is configured to hold the mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108) and placing them on the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106). Once the mass carrier (108) is emptied/unloaded at the upper storage area (106), the empty /unloaded mass carrier (108) is made to fall in a controlled way under the force of gravity from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) so that the same mass carrier can be used again for carrying the mass units (110) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) in the next cycle.

Now during discharging mode of the system (100), the empty mass carrier (108) is moved from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106). Upon reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the upper storage area (106), the mass carrier (108) is loaded by the external mass transfer mechanism (122) that is configured to hold the mass units (110) that are already accumulated in the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106) during charging mode of the system (100) and placing them on the mass carrier (108). Once the mass carrier (108) is loaded at the upper storage area (106), the mass carrier (108) is made to fall in a controlled way under the force of gravity from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) and thereby discharging the system (100). In an embodiment, the mass unit (110) includes a number of fluid containers provided on the mass carrier (108). The fluid containers are emptied or filled for unloading or loading the mass unit (110) onto the mass carrier (108). The fluid contained in the fluid container can be transferred from the mass carrier (108) to the mass stacking region (112) or vice-versa by virtue of the number of pumps (not shown). The mass stacking region (112) can include a number of reservoirs/fluid chambers configured to receive or eject fluid. The number of pumps enable pumping of the fluid from the mass carrier (108) to the number of reservoirs in the mass stacking region (112) or vice-versa to enable unloading/loading of the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108). The rate of mass transfer (fluid transfer) between the mass carrier (108) and the mass stacking region (112) can be controlled by fixing/coupling a device capable of varying cross-sectional area of a conduit in front of the conduit that is provided between the mass carrier (108) and the mass stacking region (112) with variable cross-sectional areas that control the mass flow rate while loading/unloading.

In an embodiment, high mutual friction materials are deployed between the mass carrier (108) and the exposed surface of the inclined plane (102) that ensure antislip movement/guiding/rolling of the mass carrier (108) on the exposed surface of the inclined plane (102). The friction, therefore: ensures efficient operation of the system (100) over a wide range of gradients for the inclined plane (102) thereby allowing steeper gradients for the inclined plane (102) to be used in the system (100).

In an embodiment, an additional braking means can be deployed between the the mass carrier (110) and the electric-motor generator (117) for assisting the electricmotor generator (117) to bring the mass carrier (108) to complete halt in the charging mode and discharging mode of the system (100). The additional braking means can be realized by pneumatic, gravitational, hydraulic or magnetic actuation means or a combination of the above mentioned means. According to an embodiment, the braking means is adapted to generate power while braking the mass carrier (110), which can then be stored in an auxiliary storage subsystem coupled to the braking means.

In an embodiment, either a number of shock-absorbers (not shown) or a number of pits (not shown) or both are provided at either ends of the inclined plane (102). The shock-absorber or the pit is configured to halt the uncontrolled mass carrier (108), which loses control (due to some mechanical failure in the system) while carrying the mass unit (110) from the lower end to the upper end of the inclined plane (102).

In an embodiment, the electric-motor generator (117) is further connected to a regenerative frequency drive (not shown) for controlling the speed and acceleration of the mass carrier (108) in both charging and discharging mode of the energy storage system (100).

In an embodiment, the number of mass carriers (108) can include a coupling mechanism provided at the end of each of the mass carriers (108). The coupling mechanism is configured to couple/decouple the adjacent mass carriers (108) to vary the engagement configuration of the mass carriers with each other, depending on the electrical power requirements.

Further according to an embodiment, the electric-motor generator (117) is operatively coupled to the tension member winder (116) or a pulley sub-system that is coupled to the tension member (118) by the means of a magnetic coupling in order to reduce system losses due to friction between the couplings.

In an embodiment, a linear motor generator may be coupled along the inclined plane (102) and is removably engaged with the mass carrier (108) such that the linear motor generator is configured to generate energy when the mass carrier (108) carrying the mass unit (110) falls from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) under the influence of gravity and is configured to provide energy to lift the mass unit (110) being carried on the mass carrier (108), along the inclined plane (102) when the mass unit (110) is being lifted from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area against the gravitational pull.

In an embodiment, there can be a fluid coupling between a pump (not shown) and the mass carrier (108). The pump is operatively coupled to a motor generator set (not shown) on one end and to the mass carrier (108) from the other end via a fluid. In discharging mode of the system (100), the pump is configured to be driven by the fluid pressure created by the mass carrier (108) moving from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) and this mechanical energy of the pump is then transferred to motor generator shaft that is converted to electrical energy thereafter. In the charging mode of the system (100), the pump is configured to drive the fluid which exerts a fluid pressure onto the mass carrier (108) which drives the mass carrier to lift the mass unit (108) while travelling from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) by the virtue of energy extracted from the motor generator set by the pump.

In an embodiment, the energy storage system (100) includes two or more than two separate electric motor generators (117) that are operatively coupled to both the tension member winder (116) and the ground engaging means of the mass carrier (108) respectively. Either of the electric motor generators (117) are configured to generate electricity, when the mass unit (110) is going from upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) under the force of gravity and is configured to provide mechanical energy to the mass unit when mass unit (110) is being lifted from lower storage area (104) to upper storage area (106) by the means of the mass carrier (108) and the mass maneuvering mechanism (107).

In an exemplary embodiment, the auxiliary unit can be realized in the form of counter-weights for providing necessary braking action to the number of mass units (110) in the charging and discharging mode of the energy storage system (100).

In an embodiment, the energy storage system (100) may also include a flywheel coupled with the electric -motor generator (117) that is configured to compensate disbalance in powers arising between the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) and the electric motor generator (117) (124) in the charging mode of the energy storage system (100) and to compensate disbalance in powers arising between the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) and the electric motor generator (117) in the discharging mode of the energy storage system (100).

The term ‘disbalance in powers” or “imbalance in powers” aforesaid herein the embodiment is referred to, the condition whenever the power provided by the electric motor generator (117) to mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier(108) lags or leads the power required by the mass carrier (108) to travel on incline plane (102) at a certain rate during the charging mode of the energy storage system (100) or whenever the power provided by the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) to the electric motor generator (117) lags or leads the power required by the electric power sink unit (126) during the discharging mode of the energy storage system (100).

In an embodiment, the energy storage system (100) includes an electro-mechanical sub-system (not shown) to ensure continuous electrical power harnessing and expending in the charging mode and discharging mode of the energy storage system (100) respectively.

In an embodiment, a control unit (not shown) exhibits a first control sequence for controlling the number of mass carriers (108) moving from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) in the charging mode of the system (100) and a second control sequence for controlling the number of mass carriers (108) moving from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) in the discharging mode of the system (100).

In an embodiment, the energy storage system (100) can be constructed in locations where the natural slope is very uneven or not present by creating an artificial slope using industrial material and non-biodegradable waste material.

In an embodiment, a powering means (not shown) is laid along the inclined plane (102) in the energy storage system (100) that is configured to power the number of mass carriers (108) to enable maneuvering of the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106). In an embodiment, the powering means for the mass carriers (108) is integral to the mass carrier (108).

In an embodiment, the powering means is the electric motor generator (117) that is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the ground engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass carrier (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of a electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass carrier (108) on the inclined plane (102).

In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the ground engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass carrier (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of an electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass carrier (108) on the inclined plane (102).

In an embodiment, a bi-directional electric meter (not shown) is connected with the number of electric-motor generators (117) that is configured to display the power generated or retrieved from the energy storage system (100). The electric meter is further provided with a memory that keeps a data log for all the power values generated during the working of the system (100) and based on which the meter is configured to suggest the operational time for the next cycle of the energy storage system (100).

Fig. 3 illustrates a rail track based energy storage system (300). The rail track based energy storage system (300) includes a rail track (302) provided on the inclined plane (102). The rail track (302) extends from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106). A number of rail engaging means provided beneath the mass carrier (108) are configured to engage with the rail track (302) and thereby acting as a guiding means while the mass carrier (108) is moved between the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) or vice-versa.

While harnessing electrical energy from the electrical power source unit (124), the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is configured to hold the mass unit (110) from the first mass stacking region (112A) of the lower storage area (104) and place the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108). The mass carrier (108) is configured to be driven on the rail track (302) with the help of the number of /rail engaging means for carrying the mass unit (110) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) of the system). By the virtue of mechanical power provided from the electric-motor generator (117), to pull the mass carrier (108) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) against the gravitational pull. The electric-motor generator (117) operatively coupled to the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) by the means of mass maneuvering mechanism the mass unit (110) carry maneuvering mechanism (107) is configured to draw electrical energy from the electrical power source unit (124) and convert the extracted electrical energy into mechanical energy that is utilized while pulling the mass carrier (108). Upon reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the upper storage area (106), the external mass transfer mechanism (122) enables holding of the mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108) and placing the mass units (110) on to the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106). Further the empty mass carrier (108) is allowed to fall in a controlled way from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) where it is adapted to be maneuvered again from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) carrying the mass unit (110). Consequently, the number of mass units (110) gets accumulated at the second mass stacking region (112B) provided at the upper storage area (106) of the energy storing system (100).

Now, while delivering electrical energy to the electrical power sink unit (126), the external mass transfer mechanism (122) is configured to hold the mass unit (110) from the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106) and place the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108). The mass carrier (108) carries the mass unit (110) from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104). The mass carrier (108) by virtue of gravitational pull caused by downward inclination between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104), gains kinetic energy and therefore is driven on the rail track (302) between the upper storage areas (106) to the lower storage area (104). The gained kinetic energy of the mass carrier (108) concomitantly provides mechanical energy to the electric -motor generator (117). The electric-motor generator (117) operatively coupled to the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) by the means of mass maneuvering mechanism the mass unit (110) carry maneuvering mechanism (107) is configured to convert the mechanical energy received from the mass carrier into the electrical energy and supply the generated electrical energy to the electrical power sink unit (126). Upon reaching the mass carrier (108) at the lower storage area (104), the external mass transfer mechanism (122) holds the mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108) and places the mass units (110) on to the first mass stacking region (112A). Further the empty mass carrier (108) is maneuvered from the lower storage area (106) to the upper storage area (104) in a controlled way, where it is made ready to be dropped again from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) carrying the mass unit (110). Consequently, the number of mass units (110) gets accumulated at the first mass stacking region (112 A) of the lower storage area (106) of the energy storing system (100).

In an embodiment, the mass stacking region (112) can be provided between the two rail tracks between the lower end and the upper end of the inclined plane (102) that is at the inclined portion of the inclined plane (102).

In an embodiment, the rail engaging means of the mass carrier (108) and the rail track (302) can be in a rack and pinion arrangement which ensures zero slipping at all times during the movement of the mass carrier (108) between the lower ends to the upper end of the inclined plane (102).

In an embodiment, a powering means (not shown) is laid along the rail track (302) in the energy storage system (300) that is configured to power the number of mass earners (108) to enable maneuvering of the mass unit (110) earned by the mass carrier (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106). In an embodiment, the powering means for the mass carriers (108) is integral to the mass carrier (108).

In an embodiment, the powering means is the electric motor generator (117) that is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the rail engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass carrier (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of a electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass carrier (108) on the rail track (302).

In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the rail engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass carrier (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of a electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass carrier (108) on the rail track (302) of the inclined plane (102).

Fig. 4 illustrates a road-based energy storage system (400). The road-based energy storage system (400) includes a road (402) created on the inclined plane (102). The road (402) extends from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106). A number of guiding means (not shown) provided on the road (402) that are configured to guide the mass carrier (108). In an embodiment, the number of guiding means projects from the road (402) that are configured to guide the mass carrier (108) maneuvering between the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106).

In an embodiment, the mass carrier (108) is provided with a number of ground engaging means that are configured to guide the mass carrier (108) on the guiding 1 means of the road (402), while maneuvering of the mass carrier (108) between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104).

In an embodiment, the mass carrier (108) is self-guided on the road (402) while moving between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106).

While harnessing electrical energy from the electrical power source unit (124), the holder (202)of the mass transfer mechanism (not shown) is configured to hold the mass unit (110) from the first mass stacking region (112A) of the lower storage area (104) and place the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108). The mass carrier (108) is configured to be driven on the road (402) with the help of the number of guiding means for carrying the mass unit (110) from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) of the system (400) by virtue of mechanical power provided from the electric -motor generator (117), against the gravitational pull. The electric-motor generator (117) is operatively coupled to the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) by the means of mass maneuvering mechanism (107) the mass unit (110) carry maneuvering mechanism (107) and is configured to draw electrical energy from the electrical power source unit (124) and convert the extracted electrical energy into mechanical energy to pull the mass carrier (108). Upon reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the upper storage area (106), of the mass transfer mechanism enables holding the mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108) and placing the mass units (110) on to the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106). Further the empty mass carrier (108) is allowed to fall in a controlled way, with help of mass carrier guiding means, from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) where it is adapted to be lifted again from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) carrying the mass unit (110). Consequently, the number of mass units (110) gets accumulated at the second mass stacking region (112B) provided at the upper storage area (106) of the energy storing system (100).

Now, while delivering electrical energy to the electrical power sink unit (126), the mass transfer mechanism is configured to hold the mass unit (110) from the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106) and place the mass unit (110) on the mass carrier (108). The mass carrier (108) carries the mass unit (110) from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104). The mass carrier (108) by virtue of gravitational pull caused by downward inclination between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104), gains kinetic energy and therefore is driven on the road (402) between the upper storage areas (106) to the lower storage area (104). The gained kinetic energy of the mass carrier (108) concomitantly provides mechanical energy to the electric -motor generator (117). The electric-motor generator (117) is operatively coupled to the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) by the means of maneuvering mechanism (107) and is configured to convert the mechanical energy received from the mass unit into the electrical energy and supply the generated electrical energy to the electrical power sink unit (126). Upon reaching the mass carrier (108) at the lower storage area (104), the mass transfer mechanism holds up the mass units (110) from the mass carrier (108) and places the mass units (110) on to the first mass stacking region (112A). Further the empty mass carrier (108) is provided with means to be lifted up from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (104) in a controlled way where it is made ready to be dropped again from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) carrying the mass unit (110). Consequently, the number of mass units (110) gets accumulated at the first mass stacking region (112A) of the lower storage area (106) of the energy storing system (100).

In an embodiment, the mass transfer mechanism can be an integral or integrated mass transfer mechanism that forms an integral part of the mass carrier (108) that facilitates loading/unloading of the mass units (110) on the mass carriers (108).

In an embodiment, the mass transfer mechanism can be the external mass transfer mechanism (122) for loading/unloading the mass units (110) on the mass carriers (108). In an embodiment, the guiding means either project from road (402), or from a structure deployed along the road (402). The guiding means can also be equipped with the mass carrier (108) or the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) to guide the mass units (110) between the upper storage area (106) and lower storage area (104).

In an embodiment, a number of side walls can be constructed along-side of the road (402). A number of guide-ways are etched on the side wall that can be configured to receive a number of rolling means projecting from all sides of the mass carrier (108). The rolling means of the mass carrier (108), therefore: are guided in the number of guide-ways of the side wall while moving from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) or vice-versa.

In an embodiment, a number of ground engaging means coupled to the mass carrier (108) are configured to engage with the walls of a trench (not shown) provided in the road (402) to guide the mass carrier (108) along the inclined plane (102) between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104).

In an embodiment, a powering means (not shown) is laid along the road (402) in the energy storage system (400) that is configured to power the number of mass carriers (108) to enable maneuvering of the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106). In an embodiment, the powering means for the mass carriers (108) is integral to the mass carrier (108).

In an embodiment, the powering means is the electric motor generator (117) that is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the road engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass carrier (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of an electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass carrier (108) on the road (402).

In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the ground engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass earner (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of an electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass carrier (108) on the road (402) of the inclined plane (102).

In an aspect of the present disclosure, a closed loop system (500) as shown in Fig 5. The closed loop system (500) includes a continuous track/path(502) supported by the inclined plane (102) and is provided between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106), a number of mass carriers (108), a mass maneuvering mechanism (107) and a mass guiding means (503).

The mass carrier (108) and the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) or the mass guiding means (503) or both run along the continuous path (502) provided between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106).

In an embodiment the guiding means (503) can be rail, road or channel etc extending between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106).

The number of mass carriers (108) carrying the number of mass units (110) and are configured to engage with the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) or with the guiding means (503) or both, of the closed loop system (500) by virtue of a clutching means (504).

In an embodiment, while moving from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106), one of the mass carrier (108) is configured to receive the mass unit (110) from the stacking region (112A) of the lower storage area (104) and engages, by virtue of the clutching means (504), with the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) or guiding means (503) or both of the closed loop system (500) so as to facilitate reaching of the first mass carrier (108) at the upper storage area (106), and, thereby charging the energy storage system (100), by the means of the electric motor generator (117) operatively coupled to the mass carrier (108) by the mass maneuvering mechanism (107). Upon reaching the upper storage area (106), the electric motor generator (117) is disengaged from the mass unit (110) earned by the first mass carrier (108) and the mass maneuvering mechanism (107), when the mass unit (110) neither absorbing energy from the electric-motor generator (117) nor delivering energy to the electric-motor generator (117) and another mass carrier (108) is configured to receive the mass unit (110) from the first mass stacking region (112A) of the lower storage area (104) and to engage with the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) or guiding means (503) or both of the closed loop system (500) to facilitate reaching of the another mass carrier (108) at the upper storage area (106) and thereby charging the energy storage system (100) by the electric motor generator (117) that is operatively coupled to the another mass carrier (108) by the mass maneuvering mechanism (107). while another mass carrier (108) is being maneuvered up, the mass unit (110) from the mass carrier (108) is removed and the unloaded mass carrier (108) is allowed to fall in a controlled/guided way on the continuous track (502) such that it reaches the lower storage area (104), where the mass carrier (108) is adapted to be maneuvered up again from the lower storage area (104) to the upper storage area (106) carrying the mass unit (110) and this cycle continues in order to ensure continuous absorption of electrical power fed to the electric motor generator (117) by the electric power source unit (128).

Now, While moving from the upper storage area (104) to the lower storage area (106), one of the mass carrier (108) is configured to carry the e mass unit (110) from the second mass stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106) and to engage with the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) or guiding means (503) or both of the closed loop system (500) so as to facilitate the reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the lower storage area (104) by virtue of gravity and thereby converting the gained kinetic energy of the first mass carrier (108) into electrical energy by virtue of the electric motor generator (117) that is operatively coupled to the first mass carrier(108) by a mass maneuvering mechanism, thereby, discharging the energy storage system (100).

Upon reaching the lower storage area (104), the electric motor generator (117) is disengaged from the mass unit (110) carried by the first mass carrier (108) and the mass maneuvenng mechanism (107) or the guiding means (503) or both of the closed loop system(lOO), when the mass unit (110) neither absorbing energy from the electric-motor generator (117) nor delivering energy to the electric-motor generator (117) and the another mass carrier (108) is configured to receive the mass unit (110) from the second stacking region (112B) of the upper storage area (106) and to engage with the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) or guiding means (503) or both of the closed loop system (500) so as to facilitate the reaching of the second mass carrier (108) at the lower storage area (104) by the virtue of gravity and in the process convert the gained kinetic energy of the second mass carrier (108) into electrical energy by the virtue of the electric motor gen (117) operatively coupled to the mass carrier(108) by the mass maneuvering mechanism, thereby, discharging the energy storage system (100).

While the second mass carrier (108) is falling from the upper storage area (106) to the lower storage area (104) , the mass unit (110) from the first mass carrier (108) is unloaded from and the first mass carrier (108) is lifted up in a controlled manner on the continuous track (502) such that it reaches the upper storage area (106), where it is adapted to fall again from the upper storage area (106) to lower storage area (104) carrying the mass unit (110) and this maneuvering cycle of the first mass carrier (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106) during the charging and discharging mode of the system (100) is applicable to all the mass carriers (108) of the energy storage system (100) in order to ensure continuous delivery of electrical power sink unit (126) coupled to the electrical motor generator (117).

In an embodiment, the mass carriers (108) are configured to load/unload with the mass units (110) by virtue of a mass transfer mechanism (not shown).

In an embodiment, the mass transfer mechanism can be an integral or integrated mass transfer mechanism that forms an integral part of the mass carrier (108) that facilitates loading/unloading of the mass units (110) on the mass carriers (108). In an embodiment, the mass transfer mechanism can be the external mass transfer mechanism (122) for loading/unloading the mass units (110) on the mass carriers (108).

In an embodiment, while moving of the mass carriers (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106), the mass carriers (108) are appropriately guided by the guiding means (503) deployed in the closed loop system (500) so as to avoid any imbalance in the mass carrier (108) thereby ensuring safe reaching of the mass carrier (108) at the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106) during operation of the energy storage system (100).

In an embodiment, the mass maneuvering mechanism (107) can be externally removably coupled to the mass carrier (108) or can be an integral part of the mass carrier (108).

In another embodiment, the mass carrier (108) can be removably coupled to a continuous tension member and a tension member winder. The tension member winder is operatively coupled to the electric motor generator (117), and the continuous tension member of the continuous track (502) that is appropriately guided along the banked/curved span throughout its course to ensure proper tension at all times in the tension member.

Further in an embodiment , the mass units (110) by the means of a mass transfer mechanism , provided in both the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104), capable of syncing with the mass carrier speed, can be loaded onto and unloaded from mass carrier, respectively, without bringing the mass carrier to halt.

In an embodiment, the energy storage system (100) can be realized as a system defining the rail track (302) and the road (402) both on the single inclined plane (102) for guiding the number of mass carriers (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106) in the charging mode and the discharging mode of the system (100). In an embodiment, the external mass transfer mechanism (122) and the mass transfer mechanism are configured for loading and unloading the number of mass units (110) on the number of mass carriers (108), while the mass carrier (108) is maneuvering between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (104).

In an embodiment, a powering means (not shown) is laid along the inclined plane (102) in the energy storage system (100) that is configured to power the number of mass carriers (108) to enable maneuvering of the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106). In an embodiment, the powering means for the mass carriers (108) is integral to the mass carrier (108).

In an embodiment, the powering means is the electric motor generator (117) that is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the ground engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass carrier (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of an electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass carrier (108) on the inclined plane (102).

In an embodiment, a powering means (not shown) is laid along the continuous path (502) in the energy storage system (500) that is configured to power the number of mass carriers (108) to enable maneuvering of the mass unit (110) carried by the mass carrier (108) between the lower storage area (104) and the upper storage area (106). In an embodiment, the powering means for the mass carriers (108) is integral to the mass carrier (108).

In an embodiment, the powering means is the electric motor generator (117) that is integral to the mass carrier (108) and is coupled to the continuous path engaging means of the mass carrier (108) that enables the mass carrier (108) to maneuver between the upper storage area (106) and the lower storage area (106) by virtue of an electric power source unit (124) and the electric power sink unit (126) coupled to the electric motor generator (117) during the motion of the mass earner (108) on the rail track (302).

In an embodiment, the energy storage system (100) can be a hybrid energy storage system. The hybrid feature of the system (100) is realized by permutations and combinations of various electrical power source units, mass maneuvering mechanisms, mass guiding mechanisms, kinetic, pressure and electrical energy devices/sub-systems coupled to the energy storage system (100) of the present disclosure.

For example, the hybrid energy storage system includes a kinetic energy storage/accumulating system such as flywheel that is operatively coupled to the electric-motor generator (117) of the energy storage system (100).

In an embodiment, the mass transfer mechanism in the hybrid energy storage system can be an integral or integrated mass transfer mechanism that forms an integral part of the mass carrier (108) that facilitates loading/unloading of the mass units (110) on the mass carriers (108).

In an embodiment, the mass transfer mechanism in the hybrid energy storage system can be the external mass transfer mechanism (122) for loading/unloading the mass units (110) on the mass carriers (108).

The foregoing discussion of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to limit the present invention to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description, for example, various features of the present invention are grouped together in one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the embodiments, configurations, or aspects may be combined in alternative embodiments, configurations, or aspects other than those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention the present invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment, configuration, or aspect. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present invention. Moreover, though the description of the present disclosure has included description of one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the present invention, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternative embodiments, configurations, or aspects to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter.