Systems and methods for deploying hydroelectric energy systems

Abstract

A method for deploying a payload at a subaquatic deployment location includes submersing a submersible aquatic vehicle in a body of water. The submersible aquatic vehicle carries a payload. The method also includes driving the submersible aquatic vehicle to a deployment location under the body of water while the submersible aquatic vehicle carries the payload in a first position. The method additionally includes at the deployment location, moving the payload from the first position to a second position. The method further includes deploying the payload from the second position to a deployment position at the deployment location.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 860,659, filed June 12, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. technical field [0003] The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for deploying underwater payloads. In particular, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for deploying hydroelectric energy systems (including, for example, hydroelectric turbines) in underwater environments utilizing submersible wading vehicles. Background technique [0004] The section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the described subject matter in any way. [0005] Various techniques relate to underwater systems, components of which are transported to an underwater location, such as a river bed or sea bed. Such technologies include subsea mining systems, subsea monitoring systems, subsea b...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0009] While recent developments in hydroelectric energy and turbine technology have reduced the construction and maintenance costs of such systems, the costs associated with deploying the turbines and the foundation structures or cones used to support them may be relatively high, which in turn may affect such systems. Levelized Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) for turbines

Thus, the relatively high overall system LCOE of hydroelectric turbines may make their use less expensive than other traditional, less expensive sources of electricity (i.e., power sources that may have lower overall system LCOE) (such as oil, natural gas, and coal system) is even less feasible

Images