How to input and output work in a system at the same time?

[askingask]

Basically, I thought of a weight as a energy storage. But realised you have to output that energy from the same part that inputs the energy. Now I have done some research and found two ways of storing and discharging mechanical work at the same time. First is the Huygens mechanism(maintaining power in a gravity clock) which basically utilises weight as a storage, and springs(used in wrist watches).

Do any of you know other ways or similar ways of doing that?

 

[Baluncore]

Huygens mechanism(maintaining power in a gravity clock)

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maintaining_power

Do any of you know other ways or similar ways of doing that?

I am sure we do, but you need to set some scope for the application.

The battery in a vehicle can run the lights continuously, even while the engine is not turning the alternator to charge the battery.

The compressed air in an accumulator can supply air, even while the compressor is not running.

 

[berkeman]

The battery in a vehicle can run the lights continuously, even while the engine is not turning the alternator to charge the battery.

And regenerative braking can charge the battery while the battery is still running all of the electronics in the vehicle...

 

[Flyboy]

Let me make sure I’m understanding your question correctly…

You’re looking at mechanisms for allowing you to dynamically transfer mechanical power from a source, such as a windmill or a water wheel, to a load, like a generator, while also allowing you to store excess power from your source for when the source cannot provide enough power to meet demand?

If so, you’re going to need some clever gearbox work.

In theory, something akin to a differential could work, although your driving and driven shafts are going to be quite different than the differential in a car. I’m trying to picture it in my head so I can sketch something out to better explain it…

 

[askingask]

In theory, something akin to a differential could work, although your driving and driven shafts are going to be quite different than the differential in a car.

Exactly something along this line probably. I imagine the carrier driving both side gears, while one side gear is connected to the load, the other side gear is connected to a some weight lifting device. When there is no power coming from the carrier, the weight connected to the side gear continues to drive the load, or something along this line.

 

[Baluncore]

Exactly something along this line probably. I imagine the carrier driving both side gears, while one side gear is connected to the load, the other side gear is connected to a some weight lifting device. When there is no power coming from the carrier, the weight connected to the side gear continues to drive the load, or something along this line.

What are you trying to do here?

If you are really trying to invent an accurate hand-wound mechanical clock, then you are 300 years too late. You are so far behind, that you think you are first.

 

[askingask]

What are you trying to do here?

If you are really trying to invent an accurate hand-wound mechanical clock, then you are 300 years too late. You are so far behind, that you think you are first.

As I‘ve mentioned in my first post, these mechanisms already exist. It‘s nothing new. I‘m interested in a mechanism like the one Flyboy mentions (and something like that probably already exists).

 

[russ_watters]

As I‘ve mentioned in my first post, these mechanisms already exist. It‘s nothing new. I‘m interested in a mechanism like the one Flyboy mentions (and something like that probably already exists).

Without knowing what you want to use it for it is tough to suggest an appropriate device/method.

 

[Baluncore]

I‘m interested in a mechanism like the one Flyboy mentions (and something like that probably already exists).

There are so very many possible solutions available.
You need to specify what you want to use it for, or is that a secret?

 

[Flyboy]

It sounds like he’s trying to provide a steady output of mechanical power from an irregular power source, using some sort of storage system to smooth out the power, akin to a capacitor on a full bridge rectifier. In particular, it sounds like the objective is to use a gravity battery of some sort as the storage system.

 

[Baluncore]

It does sound like something, but what it sounds like depends on the reader's imagination, not on the OP's application or requirements.

 

[Rive]

What are you trying to do here?

Can't help asking... Will it involve cows?

This task these days is not really for mechanics. Electronics can do better.

 

[askingask]

It does sound like something, but what it sounds like depends on the reader's imagination, not on the OP's application or requirements.

I honestly dont have a specific application. I‘m really thankful for all the help. But I‘m only thinking of basic concepts and ideas.

 

[askingask]

It sounds like he’s trying to provide a steady output of mechanical power from an irregular power source, using some sort of storage system to smooth out the power, akin to a capacitor on a full bridge rectifier. In particular, it sounds like the objective is to use a gravity battery of some sort as the storage system.

Im thinking of exactly this.