Michael Willoughby Coney

Title: Michael Willoughby Coney: Innovator in Compressed Air Technology

Introduction

Michael Willoughby Coney, an innovative inventor based in Swindon, Great Britain, has made significant contributions to the field of energy systems through his inventive work. Holding a total of six patents, Coney is recognized for developing advanced technologies that integrate compressed air systems with traditional gas turbine mechanisms.

Latest Patents

Coney's most recent patents include a remarkable apparatus for a compressed air energy system that integrates with a gas turbine. This system executes a power cycle involving the expansion of compressed air and involves high pressure (HP) and low pressure (LP) air turbines situated upstream of the gas turbine. One of the key features of this power cycle is the heating of compressed air before its expansion, which can lead to a net production of electrical energy that significantly surpasses the energy consumed in the air compression process. This technology allows the gas turbine to operate under nearly constant conditions, enhancing efficiency.

Another patent by Coney focuses on energy recovery from compressed gas. His expansion system employs external combustion of its residual warm exhaust air to heat incoming compressed air. This process, communicated through a heat exchanger, allows the energy storage device to supply electricity on demand, especially when the compressed air storage unit is depleted. The potential applications for these systems are vast, including their integration into vehicles through multi-stage embodiments.

Career Highlights

Michael Coney has had an impactful career, including noteworthy positions at prominent companies such as Lightsail Energy, Inc. and National Power Plc. His innovative efforts in the field of energy systems have garnered recognition and set new standards for efficiency in energy conversion processes.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Coney has had the privilege of collaborating with talented individuals like Karim Wazni and Danielle A. Fong. These collaborations have sparked new ideas and facilitated the advancement of energy technologies, driving innovation further in the industry.

Conclusion

Michael Willoughby Coney stands out as a key figure in energy innovation, particularly in the development of technology around compressed air energy systems. His inventions not only highlight his technical prowess but also contribute to the broader mission of developing sustainable energy solutions. With a portfolio of valuable patents, Coney continues to shape the future of energy systems, influencing both industry standards and environmental practices.