Hydraulic roadbed electricity generating apparatus and method

Abstract

A roadbed generator provides a roadbed collector positioned within a roadbed. The roadbed collector engages passing vehicles collecting kinetic energy therefrom, which is converted to electrical energy that is collected and passed to a load for use. In one embodiment a roadbed collector is a piston positioned below a hinged surface plate that forms part of the roadbed. Passing vehicles drive the plate and piston down into a cylinder containing hydraulic fluid, driving the hydraulic fluid from the cylinder to a hydraulic generator. A return spring coupled to the surface plate force the plate back into an elevated position after a vehicle has passed on. In some embodiments an expansion tank interposed between the cylinder and generator forces fluid back into the cylinder causing the piston to move upwardly in preparation for engaging another vehicle.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] This invention relates generally to apparatus and methods for generating electricity and, more specifically, to apparatus and methods for generating electricity using hydraulic generators.

[0003] 2. Background of the Invention

[0004] The United States has over 2.4 million miles of paved roads traveled daily by millions of automobiles. Typical automobiles weigh over two tons and therefore contain large amounts of kinetic energy as they move at high speed down the highway. At the same time many auxiliary systems associated with the roadways require electrical energy to operate. For example, many lighting systems are involved, such as street lights, semaphores, warning lights, construction lights, and the like. Other auxiliary systems are services that are provided specifically to motorists, such as emergency telephones, rest areas, weigh stations, and customs inspection stations at State and international borders.

[0005] The natio...

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