The diagram seems a bit silly. They say the concrete weights are the most expensive part of the system. So many of those blocks go through a small elevation change (or none, in the case of those on the bottom layer).
Most "gravity" batteries don't consider the cost of the weight. So far the only two types of viable gravity based energy storage systems are pumped hydro storage and hydraulic hydro storage since both take their weights from the surrounding environment.
I will admit that the crane idea is at least fixing the flaw of most gravity batteries requiring a separate generator per weight. Doubling the length of the crane arm increases the capacity 4-fold.
I will admit that the crane idea is at least fixing the flaw of most gravity batteries requiring a separate generator per weight. Doubling the length of the crane arm increases the capacity 4-fold.