Patent ID: 6630761
Filing Date: 2003-10-07
Classification: F16C,F16F,H02K,Y02E

Abstract:
A combination mechanical and magnetic support system for a flywheel power supply for storing and retrieving energy in which said power supply includes a flywheel that spins about an axis of rotation inside an evacuated chamber, an attached motor/generator means is provided for accelerating and decelerating said flywheel, said combination mechanical and magnetic support for said flywheel comprising:at least one rolling element bearing and at least one magnetic bearing in bearing housings mounted in said chamber providing radial and axial support for said flywheel in said chamber; wire metal mesh spring dampers between portions of said rolling element bearings and said bearing housings, said spring dampers imparting both radial damping and radial centering stiffness to said flywheel; said support system having a radial stiffness that allows a cylindrical rigid body resonance of said flywheel to occur at a speed less 30% of the normal operating speed; said magnetic bearings supporting at least than 80% of the weight of said flywheel and thereby substantially extending the life the of said rolling element bearings.