A system for generating electrical power by maximizing the potential of tidal movement through a coastal dam and a variable height turbine

Abstract

This invention relates to a system for generating clean electrical energy by maximizing the utilization of seawater flow during tidal movements. The system comprises a C-shaped coastal marine dam open towards the shoreline, consisting of four walls (1, 2, 3, and 4). A fixed base (5) is installed between the two walls (2 and 3) farthest from the shore and includes two lateral sides, forming a narrow water passage (gate) (6) between them. The dam encloses a large area adjacent to the shore, preventing seawater from entering during high tide except through the narrow passage, thereby creating a highly concentrated water flow that can be harnessed for electricity generation. The system also includes two movable bases (13) mounted on the lateral sides of the fixed base, capable of moving vertically in response to the changing water levels during tides In order to move the giant turbine(14) in a vertical motion.. Each movable base(13) is connected to air tanks (13-2) positioned beneath the fixed base. A large circular turbine (14) is mounted on a shaft (15) supported by the two movable bases. Two large pulleys (17) are attached to both ends of the turbine shaft, transmitting rotational motion to gearboxes (19), which in turn drive electrical generators (21). During tidal movement, seawater flows exclusively through the gate (6), striking the turbine blades and causing the turbine (14) to rotate with high torque. This rotational energy is transmitted via the pulleys and gearboxes to the generators, which produce electrical energy. The vertical movement of the turbine (14) ensures that it is not fully submerged, so that seawater impacts only the blade edges rather than the central area, thereby maximizing the efficiency of energy extraction from the flow. Additionally, this invention combines high efficiency in clean energy production with reduced operational costs and offers a unique touristic and educational attraction. The coastal location and vertically adjustable turbine allow for the construction of viewing platforms or visitor walkways, making the site a distinctive destination for tourism and learning.

Description

[0001] Sections Overview:

[0002] The following sections are included in this application:

[0003] • Title

[0004] • Background of the Invention

[0005] • General Description

[0006] • Drawings Explanation

[0007] • Detailed Description

[0008] Title : (A system for generating electrical power by maximizing the potential of tidal movement through a coastal dam and a variable height turbine) .

[0009] Background of the Invention:

[0010] The present invention relates to a system for generating electrical energy by maximizing the utilization of tidal force in coastal areas near the shoreline.

[0011] Globally, the demand for clean electricity generated from renewable sources is steadily increasing. Among these sources is the kinetic energy of seawater during tidal movements. Several previous inventions have aimed to harness this energy, using natural water passages or straits without the construction of artificial dams. However, such methods allow water to flow freely without being effectively confined, thereby reducing its velocity and flow force. Prominent prior technologies include:

[0012] Tidal Barrages: Utilizing marine dams with turbines installed within submerged water channels.

[0013] Tidal Fences: Installing vertical-axis blades fully submerged in water currents.

[0014] Tidal Turbines: Deploying standalone turbines on the seabed without any artificial dam to enhance flow force.

[0015] Despite these techniques, there are several limitations and problems associated with them, including:

[0016] Most systems are located far from the shore, making implementation more difficult and increasing both construction and maintenance costs.

[0017] Transmitting electricity from offshore sites to onshore users is costly and complex.

[0018] The size of the turbines is typically limited by the width of the strait or waterway, reducing the potential to fully utilize water flow energy and thus limiting the maximum achievable power generation efficiency.

[0019] Previous designs generally lacked mechanisms to adjust or vary the turbine height according to changing tidal water levels, resulting in lost opportunities to enhance performance and optimize torque generation under varying flow conditions. The majority of these systems relied on only a single generator per turbine, which restricted the total electrical output even when strong tidal flows were available.

[0020] Turbines in previous designs typically had a fixed diameter, with no option to adjust torque output based on demand. In contrast, increasing turbine diameter as proposed in the current invention can significantly boost mechanical torque and improve power generation capability without relying solely on water velocity.

[0021] Moreover, most earlier solutions focused solely on power generation and did not incorporate tourism or visitor-attracting features, thereby missing out on opportunities to enhance the economic and social value of such projects.

[0022] Therefore, there is a clear and pressing need to develop a new power generation system that:

[0023] Is located near the shoreline to reduce costs and facilitate easier implementation and maintenance.

[0024] Uses an artificial dam to confine and accelerate tidal water flow in a controlled manner.

[0025] Employs a large-scale turbine that can be custom-manufactured with a very large diameter as needed, unrestricted by the width of the water passage, and equipped with adjustable height via a movable base responsive to sea level changes. This allows for maximum exploitation of water flow strength and velocity, ensuring optimal torque during all tidal phases.

[0026] Incorporates a fixed base with adjustable height and surface area to allow optimal turbine positioning based on its diameter and water level, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and supporting both educational and tourism applications.

[0027] Allows the use of multiple generators per turbine to increase energy production capacity.

[0028] Integrates touristic and educational appeal by enabling turbine designs with attractive geometries, placing the system near the shore, and allowing for visitor platforms or viewing walkways. This provides opportunities for tourists and students to observe turbine operation up close, adding an entertainment, tourism, and educational dimension alongside its energy production role.

[0029] Accordingly, this invention combines maximum efficiency in clean energy generation with reduced operational costs and enhanced educational and touristic value, making it a superior and distinguished innovation over currently known solutions.

[0030] General Description of the Invention:

[0031] This invention relates to a system for generating electrical energy by fully harnessing the power of tidal movements in coastal areas, as illustrated in Figure 4. The system features a unique design that includes:

[0032] A - A marine dam close to the shore in the shape of the letter "C" (comprising four walls (1, 2, 3, and 4) and a fixed base (5) with a narrow water passage (gate (6))) as shown in Figure 1. The dam encloses a large area (e.g., 2 square kilometers) adjacent to the shore, preventing seawater from entering the enclosed area, which is assumed to be filled with large volumes of water. The dam allows water to flow into the area only through the narrow passage (gate (6)), accelerating the flow dramatically compared to what would occur if the dam were not present. This concentrated water flow through the narrow passage can then be used to generate electricity.

[0033] B - A fixed base (5) positioned between the sides of the dam walls (2 and 3), with at least one base between them, and featuring the narrow water passage (6) between its sides, as shown in Figure 1.

[0034] C - Two movable bases (13), witch installed at sides of the fixed base (5) as shown in Figure 3. These bases are designed to move vertically (up and down) depending on the rising and falling levels of the seawater. They carry the giant turbine and move it up and down according to the sea level during the tidal process, ensuring that no large part of the turbine is submerged in the seawater, thus maximizing the torque that can be generated by the turbine's rotation.

[0035] D - A giant turbine (14), mounted on a horizontal axis, installed on the two movable bases (13) at the sides of the fixed base (5), as shown in Figures 4 and 5. The turbine's diameter is oriented vertically relative to the sea surface, and its size can be controlled without being constrained by the dimensions of the water passage. The edges of the turbine blades (14) are submerged in the flowing water from the passage (6), causing the turbine to rotate with high torque due to the powerful water flow through the passage during tidal movements. The turbine's motion is transferred via a mechanical movement system, including giant pulleys (17), gearboxes (18), and tension pulleys (25), to electric generators (21), which generate a significant amount of electrical energy.

[0036] The movable bases (13) move vertically to ensure that only the blade tips of the turbine are submerged during tidal movements, preventing the turbine from being fully immersed. This movement guarantees that the water flow strikes only a suitable area of the turbine blades during the flow through the passage (6), maximizing the energy extracted from the water flow and thus optimizing electricity production.

[0037] This design uniquely features:

[0038] The up-and-down movement of the turbine, ensuring that the turbine is never fully submerged and only the blade tips are immersed, which optimizes the interaction between the water flow and the turbine blades.

[0039] The adjustability of the turbine's diameter, allowing for the creation of a giant turbine that is not constrained by the size of the water passage, enabling higher torque generation.

[0040] The ability to add more electric generators at each side of the fixed base, connected to the gearboxes, to increase electricity production beyond what was possible in previous inventions.

[0041] A fixed base that can adjust its height, allowing for optimal positioning of the turbine based on the sea level and the turbine diameter, thus enhancing operational efficiency.

[0042] Moreover, this system offers several advantages over existing technologies:

[0043] Close proximity to shore, making it easier and more cost-effective to execute and maintain.

[0044] The entire mechanical system, generators, and connections are above the platform (fixed base) and not submerged underwater, reducing maintenance costs and making it easier to transmit electricity to land-based consumers.

[0045] It can serve as a tourist and educational attraction due to its unique design, the size of the turbine, and the potential to modify its shape and materials, while being located close to the shore. Visitors, such as tourists or students, can view the turbine's movement from platforms or viewing walkways, adding an entertaining, tourist, and educational dimension alongside its energy generation function.

[0046] The system is highly sustainable, operating year-round without interruption due to the constant tidal cycles. It does not require consumables like fossil- fuel-powered generators, produces no environmental pollution, operates at a steady speed, and does not negatively impact marine environments or shorelines.

[0047] This invention represents a significant advancement over prior solutions, making it capable of maximizing electricity generation while offering operational simplicity, low costs, and the potential for added tourist and educational value.

[0048] Drawings Explanation :

[0049] In all the figures, similar elements take the same reference numbers and the same designations. The figures are not drawn to scale, but with a focus on the present invention.

[0050] Drawing Explanation (Figure 1):

[0051] Figure (1) shows a complete view of the sea dam from the inner side, where figure (1) illustrates how the sea dam is adjacent to the shore (8) at its ends at the two points (A and F) at the ends of the walls (1 and 4), and that it is open from the shore side.

[0052] Figure (1) shows the distribution and arrangement of the components of the sea dam, which includes the following:

[0053] The sea dam starts from wall (1), which extends from point (A), located at the shore (8), to point (B), which is inside the sea and is at a distance from the shore (8) not less than an appropriate distance., then wall (2), which extends from point (B) until it connects with the fixed base (5) at point (C).. and base (5), which extends from point (C), where it connects with wall (2), to point (D), where it connects with wall (3).. and wall (3), which extends from point (D), where it connects with base (5), to point (E), where it connects with wall (4).. and wall (4), which extends from point (E), where it connects with wall (3), to point (F), which is at the shore (8). ((The two points (A and F) are at the shore (8) and represent the furthest points that the water reaches during the tide)). ((Wall (2), base (5), and wall (3) must be at a distance of approximately 1000 m or more from the shore (8).

[0054] -Figure (1) shows the sea (7), which is the open sea area and is at the top of figure (1), and the shore (8), which is at the bottom of figure (1), and the water confinement area (12), which is inside the sea dam on the shore side (8), and is confined between the four walls (wall 1, wall 2, wall 3, wall 4) and the walls of fixed base (5). -Figure (1) shows the fixed base (5), which is part of the sea dam and extends from point (C) to point (D), and consists of (two symmetrical opposing parts from the side of walls (5-3), which form the only water passage (6) between them. Each of the two parts of the fixed base (5) consists of base columns (5- 6), the upper platform (5-1), the lower platform (5-2), the side wall (5-3), and the cylindrical openings (5-7), two or more in number, in the upper platform (5-1) of each part of the fixed base (5). These cylindrical openings (5-7) are for the passage and movement of the moving base columns shown in figure (3), and the air cavity (5-5), which is between the upper platform (5-1) and the lower platform (5-2). The fixed base (5) is completely closed from the sea side (7), except only at the water passage (6). The fixed base (5) is open from the inner side of the sea dam, i.e., from the water confinement area (12), where water must enter under the fixed base (5) during its collection in the water confinement area (12) due to the tidal process .

[0055] -Figure (1) shows the only water passage (6), which runs through the fixed base (5) between the two side walls (3-5) of the two parts of the fixed base (5), and arrows (9) showing the direction of seawater flow from the only water passage (6) during the tidal process from the sea (7) into the water confinement area (12), and arrows (10) showing the direction of seawater flow during the ebbing process out of the water confinement area (12) toward the sea (7), and arrows (11) showing the direction of seawater flow entering under the fixed base (5) during the tidal process, and the area (12) where the seawater is confined and accumulates during the tide.

[0056] Drawing Explanation (Figure 2):

[0057] Figure (2) shows a full view drawing of the external side of the sea dam, i.e., from the sea side (7), and this figure shows that the fixed base is closed from the sea side except for the water passage (gate) (6).

[0058] Explanation of Drawing (Figure 3):

[0059] Figure (3) shows an image of part of the water confinement system (the sea dam), which is an enlarged image of the fixed base (5) from the inner angle of the water confinement area (12), to highlight the details of the fixed base (5) more clearly and how the movable base (13) is installed on the upper platform (5-1) of the fixed base (5).

[0060] Figure (3) shows the details of the parts of the movable base (13), which consists of the upper platform (13-1), the air tank (13-2), the base columns (13- 2) fixed in the upper platform (13-1) and the air tank (13-2), the bearing (13-4), the bearing holder (13-5) in the upper platform (13-1), the column fasteners in the air tank (13-6), and the column fasteners in the upper platform (13-7).

[0061] Figure (3) shows arrows (9) indicating the direction of seawater flow from the only water passage (6) during the tide process from the sea (7) into the water confinement area (12), arrows (10) indicating the direction of seawater flow during the ebb process out of the water confinement area (12) toward the sea (7), and arrows (11) indicating the direction of seawater flow entering under the fixed base (5) during the tide.

[0062] Figure (3) shows arrows (62) indicating the upward movement of the air tank (13-6) due to seawater flowing and entering under the fixed base (5) during the tide, and arrows (63) indicating the downward movement of the air tank (13-6) after seawater exits from under the fixed base (5) during the ebb.

[0063] Explanation of Drawing (Figure 4):

[0064] Figure (4) shows a full view (of this invention) of the electric power generation system and shows the details included in this system, which are: the sea dam adjacent to the shore, the fixed base (5), and how it is installed and connected with the dam walls (2 and 3), and the two movable bases (13) and how they are installed on the fixed base (5), the giant turbine (14) and how it is installed on the two movable bases (13). The turbine (14) is circular and may reach a diameter of (160 m), with the turbine shaft (15), and the two giant pulleys (17), as well as the transmission components and power generators installed on the fixed base (5) .

[0065] Figure (4) shows the distribution and arrangement of the components included in the sea dam (with the same naming and numbering as shown in Figure (1).

[0066] Figure (4) also shows the location of the sea (7), which is the open area, and the shore (8), which is at the bottom of Figure (4), and the only water passage (the gate) (6) that passes through the fixed base (5) between the two side walls (5-3) of the parts of the fixed base (5).

[0067] Some details of the components included in this invention and not named here in the explanation of Figure (4) are explained in more detail in Figure (5).

[0068] The giant turbine (14) consists of the main body of the turbine (14) and the turbine blades (14-1), which are fixed and evenly distributed on the edges of the turbine (14). The center of the giant turbine (14) contains the shaft (15), which is inserted and fixed at the center of the turbine (15), and which carries the giant turbine (14) over the movable base platform (13-1) from both sides, the two giant pulleys (17) are fixed in ends of shaft (15. The turbine also includes a shaft holder (16) in the center of the giant turbine (14).

[0069] Figure (4) shows the mechanical system for transmission, which includes: two gearboxes (18), two giant pulleys (17), a transmission belt (23), a gearbox pulley (19), a shaft for transmitting the movement of the pulleys to the gearbox (20), a belt tensioner pulley (25), a pulley arm (26), a mechanical selftensioning box (24), and a shaft for transmitting the movement (22) to the electric generator.

[0070] --Figure (4) shows the electric generator (21) connected to the gearbox (18) via a transmission shaft (22 ) .

[0071] Figure (4) shows the seawater confinement area (12) and its accumulation during the tide process, and the shore area (8), which is at the bottom of Figure (4), and arrows (9) showing the direction of seawater flow from the only water passage (6) during the tide process from the sea (7) into the water confinement area (12), and arrows (10) showing the direction of seawater flow from the only water passage (6) during the ebb process out of the water confinement area (12) toward the sea (7), and arrows (11) showing the direction of seawater flow entering under the fixed base (5) during the tide

[0072] Explanation of Drawing (Figure 5) :

[0073] Figure (5) shows a magnified image of a part of the water containment system (the sea dam) to show more details and clarification. It is a magnified image of the fixed base (5) from the inner side of the water containment area (12) to highlight the details of the fixed base (5) more clearly and how the two movable bases (13) are fixed on the upper platform (5-1) of the fixed base (5), as well as the installation of the giant turbine (14) and the shaft (15) on the movable bases (13), and the power transmission to the electric generators (21) mounted on the fixed base (5) .

[0074] Figure (5) illustrates the same components included in the sea dam as shown in Figure (1).

[0075] Figure (5) shows the fixed base (5), which is part of the sea dam or water containment system. Its function is also to form the only water passage (6) between its two walls (5-3), and its third function is to carry the movable base and the turbine shown in Figure (3).

[0076] Since Figure (5) shows the inner side of the sea dam, it depicts the inner side of the fixed base (5).

[0077] Figure (5) shows the fixed base (5), which extends from point (C) to point (D). It consists of two symmetrical opposing parts from the side of the walls (5- 3) that form the only water passage (6) between them. Each part of the fixed base (5) consists of base columns (6-5), the upper platform (1-5), the lower platform (5-2), the side wall (5-3), and the cylindrical openings (5-7), which are 2 or more on the upper platform (5-1) of each part of the fixed base (5). These cylindrical openings (5-7) allow the movement and passage of the movable base columns (13) and the air cavity (5-5) located between the upper platform (5-1) and the lower platform (5-2). The importance of the air cavity (5-5) is to allow the ends of the two movable pulleys (17) to enter it, thereby preventing the collision of the giant pulleys (17) with the fixed base (5). The fixed base (5) is completely closed on the sea side (7) except only for the single water passage (6), and the fixed base (5) is open from the inner side of the sea dam or water containment system, i.e., from the water containment area (11), where water must enter under the fixed base (5) while accumulating in the containment area (11) due to the tide (to raise the movable base, as will be clarified in the full description.

[0078] Figure (5) shows the only water passage (6) that penetrates the fixed base (5) between the two side walls (5-3) of the fixed base parts (5) .

[0079] The figure shows the details of the parts of the two movable bases (13), which consist of the upper platform (13-1), the air tank (13-2), the base columns (13-

[0080] 3) fixed in the upper platform (13-1) and the air tank (13-2), the bearings (13-

[0081] 4), the bearing holders (13-5) in the upper platform (13-1), the column holders in the air tank (13-6), and the column holders in the upper platform (13-7).

[0082] Figure (5) shows the giant turbine (14), which is circular and can have a diameter up to (120 m) or more. The giant turbine (14) consists of the main body of the turbine (14) and the turbine blades (14-1) fixed and distributed evenly at the edges of the turbine (14) so that their tips protrude outside the diameter of the turbine (14) to collide with the water flowing through the water passage (6). It also shows the turbine shaft (15) fixed at the center of the turbine and mounted above the platforms of the movable bases (13-1) from both sides using the bearings (13-4 ).

[0083] Figure (5) shows the mechanical system for transmission, which includes: two gearboxes (18), two giant pulleys (17), a transmission belt (23), a gearbox pulley (19), a shaft for transmitting the movement of the pulleys to the gearbox (20), a belt tensioner pulley (25), a pulley arm (26), a mechanical selftensioning box (24), and a shaft for transmitting the movement (22) to the electric generator.

[0084] --Figure (5) shows the electric generator (21) connected to the gearbox (18) via a transmission shaft (22).

[0085] Figure (5) also shows the sea location (7), the shore location (8), which is at the bottom of Figure (5), and the water containment area (12) located inside the sea dam. It also shows arrows (9) indicating the direction of seawater flow from the single water passage (6) during the tide from the sea (7) into the containment area (12), and arrows (10) indicating the direction of seawater flow from the single water passage (6) during the ebb out of the containment area (12) toward the sea (7), and arrows (11) indicating the direction of seawater flow entering under the fixed base (5) during the tide. Arrow (60) shows the circular motion direction of the turbine (14) due to water flow during the tide, and arrow (61) shows the circular motion direction of the turbine (14) due to water flow during the ebb.

[0086] Explanation of Drawing (Figure 6) :

[0087] Figure (6) shows a magnified image of part of the giant turbine (14), demonstrating the possibility of making the tips of the turbine blades (14-1) as wide as possible to obtain the greatest possible torque from the flow of seawater during both the tide and the ebb through the single water passage (6).

[0088] Detailed Description:

[0089] In describing the present invention, all terms defined herein have the meanings commonly understood in the field.

[0090] This invention is a system for generating electrical power by maximizing the utilization of tidal force in coastal areas, as illustrated in Figure 4. It features a unique design comprising the following components:

[0091] A. A marine dam near the shore in the shape of the letter "C", open toward the shoreline and closed on all other sides except for a passage or gate that allows water to flow through toward the shore. The dam includes four walls (1, 2, 3, 4). Further details of the dam's components will be explained later.

[0092] B. A fixed base (5) connected to the marine dam on the side opposite the shoreline. It consists of two ends between which lies a water channel (6.(

[0093] C. Two movable bases (13), each one of them is installed on one side of the fixed base (5). These bases are capable of vertical movement (up and down) in response to the rise and fall of sea level. The mechanism enabling this movement consists of air tanks (13-2) connected to the movable bases by cylindrical rods (13-3). The air tanks are installed in a cavity (5-9) beneath the fixed base (5), as shown in Figures 3 and 5. The tanks float on the water collected in the cavity, allowing them to rise and fall with the water level. This vertical movement drives the movable bases— carrying the turbine— up and down.

[0094] D. A giant circular turbine (14) mounted horizontally between the two movable bases (13), such that the turbine's diameter is perpendicular to the sea surface. The turbine blades are partially submerged in the water flowing through the channel (gate) (6), causing the turbine to rotate.

[0095] E. A mechanical transmission system, comprising: -Two giant pulleys (17) whose diameter can be adjusted as needed mounted on either end of the turbine's axis, rotating with it, and transmitting the turbine's rotational motion to two gearboxes;

[0096] -Two gearboxes (18), each mounted on one side of the fixed base. These increase the rotational speed from the turbine to a suitable level to operate the generators and transmit the motion to them;

[0097] -Two pulleys (19), each connected to one of the gearboxes (18) and linked to the giant pulleys (17) by belts for power transmission;

[0098] - Two belt-tensioning pulleys (25), fixed on the base and each connected to a giant pulley (17) and a gearbox pulley (19) via a belt. These pulleys keep the belts properly tensioned to ensure efficient power transmission;

[0099] F. Electric generators (21) (at least two), mounted on the fixed base and connected to the gearboxes to generate electrical power from the turbine's rotation.

[0100] All components of this invention are assembled in a distinctive design to form the power generation system as shown in Figure 4 and other figures, and as explained below:

[0101] The marine dam, adjacent to the shore and shaped like the letter C (the "C" shape clarifies that the dam is closed on three sides and open on one side), is open toward the shore. It includes walls (1, 2, 3, and 4) and is connected to the fixed base (5), which links the two walls facing the shore (2 and 3). The fixed base incorporates a narrow channel (gate) (6), as shown in Figure 1. (The dam can be constructed from concrete or any other suitable material.) The height of the dam's walls is made appropriate so that the height of the dam walls (1, 2, 3, 4) and the fixed base (5) should be higher than the maximum height that seawater can reach in that area during the tidal process, as shown in Figure (1), in order to prevent water from overflowing over the walls. The positions of walls (1 and 4) are vertical to the shore (8) and adjacent to it at points (A and F) as shown in Figure (1), where the dam encloses a large area (which can be approximately 2 square kilometers, more or less depending on the area and the strength of the tides in it). The dam prevents a large amount of water from reaching the enclosed area (12) near the shore (8) during the tidal process, except through a narrow water passage (6). Therefore, water will flow through the water passage quickly and forcefully during the tide or when it recedes away from the shore (8) during the ebb tide.

[0102] Since the amount of water flowing into and out of the enclosed area

[0103] (12) during the tidal and ebb processes is enormous, the flow of this amount of water through the water passage (6) will be very fast, much faster than if the dam were not present. As a result, a large horizontal pressure force will be generated during its flow, which can be used to generate clean electrical energy using a giant turbine (14) fixed on two moving bases (13) installed at both ends of the fixed base (5) in a unique design. The giant turbine (14) is moved by the water flow from the passage, and the movement is transferred via the mechanical motion transfer system, whose components were described earlier in paragraph (E) to electrical generators as shown in Figure (5 ).

[0104] The fixed base (5) is connected to the marine dam, and its height and surface area can be adjusted, allowing it to be built large and at a significant height, potentially reaching (80 m or more) above sea level (when the tide is at its highest point), as shown in Figure (1) and Figure (2). The fixed base consists of two ends, each with a low platform (5-2) and a high platform (5-1), mounted on the columns of the base (5-6). The fixed base (5) is closed on the outer side of the dam, facing the sea, and it is open on the inner side of the dam, allowing water to enter beneath it from the side of the enclosed area within the marine dam. The function of the fixed base (5) is to be connected to the marine dam and form part of it on the side opposite the shore and to create the only water passage (6) between its two end walls (5-3). It also supports the two moving bases, the giant turbine, and the other parts (included in this invention), such as the components of the mechanical motion transfer system and the electrical generators. Additionally, one of the functions of the fixed base (5) is to allow water to enter and accumulate underneath it from the internal side of the marine dam (to carry the air tanks (13-2) which are part of the moving bases

[0105] (13), as shown in Figure (3), Figure (4), and Figure (5).

[0106] As explained below, two moving bases (13) are installed on the upper platforms at both ends of the fixed base (5) at both ends of the strait (gate) (6) in a manner that allows the moving bases to move vertically up and down with the rise and fall of the sea level, as shown in Figure (3) and Figure (5) (as will be explained later). A giant turbine (14), which can have a diameter of up to (160 meters or more, depending on the need), is installed vertically with a horizontal axis (15) above the tops of the two moving bases (13-1), as shown in Figure (4) and Figure (5). The turbine (14) is free to rotate around the axis (and the axis (15) is fixed at the center of the turbine so that it rotates with the turbine's rotation). The height of the fixed base (5) must be proportional to the turbine's diameter (14) so that the turbine blades do not touch the seabed, maintaining an appropriate distance from the seabed.

[0107] Two giant pulleys (17) are fixed at both ends of the axis (15), and a gearbox (18) is fixed above the platform of the fixed base on both sides. Each gearbox is placed close to the giant pulley to transfer the movement of the giant pulley to the gearbox, as will be explained later. At least one electric generator (21) is connected to each gearbox.

[0108] The turbine (14) moves up and down with the rise and fall of the moving bases. (The reason for installing the turbine (14) on the moving bases (13) is so that the turbine (14) rises with the rise of the sea level during the tide and descends with the lowering of the sea level during the ebb tide. This change in the turbine's height will solve the problem of the possible loss of torque generated by the pressure force of water on the turbine's movement due to a large part of the turbine being submerged during the tide. (This unique design ensures that no large part of the turbine submerges in the water when the water level rises (during the tide), and only a specific part (of appropriate length) of the turbine blades (14-1) remains submerged in the water all the time, so that the pressure force of the flowing water from the gate (6) is concentrated on the edges of the turbine blades (14-1) throughout, resulting in the maximum torque being generated in the turbine's movement (14) at all times.

[0109] The ends of the axis (15) are fixed with ball bearings (13-4) on the tops of the moving bases (13) so that the axis (15) can rotate freely with the turbine's rotation (14). Each moving base (13) consists of the moving base platform (13- 1) and at least one air tank (13-2), which can be plastic or metal. The air tanks float above the water inside a cavity (5-9) beneath the upper platform of the fixed base (5) The air tanks (13-2) are connected to the moving base platform (13-1) through at least two cylindrical columns (13-3) in each moving base, passing through special cylindrical openings (5-7) in the raised platform (5-1) of the fixed base (5), as shown in Figures (3) and (5). This way, the air tanks (13-2) float up and down with the rising and falling water level that gathers beneath the cavity of the fixed base (5-9), thus moving the moving base platform (13-2) and the giant turbine up and down automatically with the rising and falling water level in a balanced vertical motion due to the multiple cylindrical columns and cylindrical openings.

[0110] Here is further clarification on the automatic movement of the turbine (14) up and down: When the water enters the confined area (12) during the tide and gathers beneath the cavity (5-9) of the fixed base (5) (as shown in Figure (5)), and under the air tanks (13-2), these air tanks (13-2) will float vertically upwards, thus pushing the columns (13-3) upwards (in a completely balanced and vertical movement). This will, in turn, push the moving base platforms (13- 1) upwards, thus raising the turbine shaft (15) fixed on the moving base platforms (13-1) upwards, and the turbine (14) will rise upwards. This ensures that no large part of the turbine (14) is submerged in water when the water level rises during the tide. When the sea level drops during the ebb tide, the height of the air tanks (13-2) will decrease, thus the columns (13-3) and the moving base platforms will move downwards, which in turn lowers the height of the turbine (14). With this unique design, it ensures that the flowing water from the narrow passage (6) only strikes the terminal parts of the turbine blades ( (14-1), and no large part of the turbine is submerged in the water. Only a specific part (of appropriate length) of the turbine blades (14-1) is submerged in the water at all times to concentrate the pressure force of the flowing water from the gate (6) on the turbine blades (14-1) all the time. This way, we ensure the maximum possible torque and maximum speed generated in the turbine's movement (14) due to the flowing water pressure during the tide and ebb, thus obtaining the highest possible speed in the movement of the electric generators (21), ensuring the generation of the largest possible amount of electrical energy from the tidal flow.

[0111] To ensure the movement of the moving base (13) up and down completely vertically and without any tilting or deviation, the columns (13-3) pass through the cylindrical openings (5-7) in the upper platform (5-1), and the number of columns (13-3) can be increased to four or more to ensure the balance of the moving bases and stabilize their vertical motion more accurately, reducing the possibility of deviation and increasing the load-bearing capacity of the moving bases (13) to lift the turbine (14) up and down. The openings (5-7) match the number of columns (13-3), and the openings can be cylindrical in the same shape as the columns (13-3) to provide greater balance and reduce tilting as much as possible in the vertical up-and-down motion of the moving bases.

[0112] Since the two giant pulleys (17) need to move freely without hitting the floor of the fixed base, an air cavity (5-5) is created between the upper platform (5-1) and the lower platform (5-2) to allow the moving pulleys' (17) edges to pass through, preventing the giant pulleys (17) from colliding with the fixed base (5)

[0113] Here's how the electricity generation works in this system: When the seawater flows as shown in Figure (5) during the tide and ebb through the narrow passage (gate) (6), the flowing water will hit the edges of the turbine blades (14-1), creating significant pressure on them. This will make the giant turbine (14) rotate quickly with strong torque. This rotational motion is transferred to the turbine shaft (15) fixed in the turbine (14). Two giant pulleys (17) are fixed at both ends of the shaft (15). This generates a great kinetic force in the giant pulleys (17), which is transferred via a belt (23) to the pulley of the gearbox (19), then to the gearbox (18) that converts the rotational force of the giant turbine into high speed and transmits it to an electric generator (21) connected to the gearbox, capable of producing a large amount of electricity, possibly up to more than 1.5 megawatts. More than one electric generator (21) can be connected to each of the gearboxes (19), as shown in Figure (5), thus enabling the generation of the maximum possible amount of electrical energy.

[0114] Since the two giant pulleys (17) rise and fall with the turbine's (14) height, the distance between the giant pulley (17) and the gearbox pulley (19) changes and is not fixed. This variation affects the tension and slack of the motion transmission belt (23) between the giant pulley (17) and the gearbox pulley (19). Therefore, an additional tension pulley (25) is installed, self-adjusting to keep the transmission belt (23) tensioned at an appropriate level. This tension pulley (25) is fixed by an arm (26) in a box (24) that contains mechanical metal parts shaped in such a way as to provide flexibility and maintain appropriate tension on the pulley (23) connected to the giant pulley and the gearbox pulley (19).

[0115] "However, it is possible to dispense with the tensioning pulley optionally in one of the alternative designs for implementation, in case the gearboxes and electric generators are fixed to the moving base platform so that they are installed near the giant pulley. This optional configuration provides an important mechanical advantage, as it maintains a constant distance between the two giant pulleys and the gearboxes, thereby eliminating the need to use a tensioning pulley or any mechanical compensation means for changes in the lengths of the belts when the height of the turbine changes.

[0116] This arrangement contributes to simplifying the overall mechanical design of the system, reducing the number of moving parts, while maintaining stable transmission of motion from the turbine to the electric generator. However, this choice may increase the load on the moving base platform that moves the giant turbine up and down.

[0117] In this unique design, we can control the height of the fixed base (5) and the diameter of the turbine (14) (the diameter of the turbine can reach 120 meters or more as needed). The larger the diameter of the giant turbine (14), the greater the torque generated by the water flow pressure from the gate (6) on the edges of the giant turbine blades (14-1), thus allowing the possibility of generating higher speed in the electricity generators (21) and obtaining the maximum possible electrical energy. Additionally, the width of the water passage through the gate (6) can be adjusted, and the smaller the gate width, the greater the water flow speed through it, thus increasing the possibility of generating higher speed in the electricity generators (21) and obtaining more electrical energy. The dam can also be constructed in a long rectangular shape, increasing the length of walls (2 and 3) and adding multiple fixed bases and giant turbines, thus allowing the generation of greater electrical energy and a more aesthetic appeal.

[0118] We used the two giant pulleys (17) to transfer the turbine's motion to the gearboxes (18) and to maintain the ability to transmit the maximum torque generated from the turbine's motion to the gearboxes, as the location of the gearboxes (18) will not be adjacent to the giant turbine (14) but will be placed at a suitable distance on the fixed base (5) for ease of installation and maintenance while also maintaining the aesthetic design of the giant turbine.

[0119] Since the diameters of the two pulleys (17) are large and their circumference is greater than that of the shaft (15) they are mounted on, the pulleys (17) need an air cavity (5-5) on both sides of the fixed base (5) to allow free movement of the pulleys (17) during their ascent and descent.

[0120] The system is installed near the shore and is partially exposed, which makes it easy to access for both installation and energy transfer or for maintenance and display purposes. This also allows for the design and manufacturing of the height-adjustable giant turbine in attractive shapes, which enhances the possibility of using it for tourism and educational purposes. The system can be equipped with platforms or walkways designed for display and observation, mounted above both ends of the fixed base and designed at angles that allow visitors, whether tourists or students, to watch the impressive movement of the giant turbine and understand the principle of energy generation from tidal flows. This would also enhance economic income from tourism and raise community awareness of renewable energy sources. This addition can be shown in supplementary drawings later without affecting the primary function of the system.

[0121] Therefore, this invention distinguishes itself from previous inventions as follows: It ensures the (maximum benefit from the torque generated by the water flowing from the strait (the gate)), thus enabling the production of very large amounts of electrical energy (to the maximum possible extent) compared to other inventions and ideas (previous ones), due to the unique design of this invention, which includes the following features: First, the vertical movement of the turbine up and down ensures that the turbine does not completely submerge in the water, nor does a large part of it submerge (only a suitable area of the turbine blade edges is submerged), thus ensuring that the seawater only impacts the suitable area of the turbine blades during the flow in the passage (6). Second, the ability to control the diameter of the turbine (the possibility of creating a giant turbine) is not constrained by the dimensions of the water passage, thus allowing the maximum possible torque. Additionally, controlling the height of the fixed base, and the possibility of increasing the number of electricity generators (to more than one) at each end of the fixed base and connecting them to the gearboxes (due to the unique design of this invention), thus ensuring the possibility of significantly increasing the production of electrical energy beyond previous ideas and inventions".

[0122] This invention is also distinguished by being (easier and less costly to implement, less costly to maintain, and easier and less expensive to transfer electricity from it to the benefiting areas on land due to: (A- Its implementation being adjacent to the shores, B- The mechanical parts, generators, and installations being above the platform (the fixed base) and not submerged under water.

[0123] Furthermore, this invention is unique because it can be a tourist and educational landmark in the country where it is implemented due to (the unique design, the size of the turbine used, the ability to change the turbine's shape, the type of materials used in its manufacturing, and the proximity of its implementation to the shores.

[0124] In addition to: (Sustainability, as it works continuously throughout the day and year, because the tidal process never stops. It does not require operational consumables like generators powered by oil derivatives. There is no environmental pollution in its use because it is a clean energy system. It operates at a nearly constant speed due to the stability of the speed and the quantities of sea water flow during the tide and ebb, unlike wind turbines which significantly decrease their speed when wind speeds are low or stop when there is no wind. It has no negative impact on the marine environment or the shores.)

[0125]

Claims

A system for generating electrical power by maximizing the potential of tidal movement through a coastal dam and a variable height turbine.Claims:1- A system for generating electrical energy (to the maximum possible extent) from the movement of tides in areas near the shore, comprising:A - A sea dam adjacent to the shore in a quadrilateral shape resembling the letter (C), consisting of four walls on three sides and being open on the shore side and closed on the other sides, its function is to prevent a massive amount of seawater from reaching the shore except through a special passage on the side opposite the shore;B - At least one fixed base (5) mounted on concrete (or steel) columns connected to the sea dam on the side opposite the shore between the ends of walls (2 and 3), consisting of two sides... its function is to form a water passage between its two sides and create a water cavity beneath them, as well as to carry and support the movable base and carry other parts of the power generation system;Wherein the fixed base includes a first side and a second side not connected to each other, forming between them a water passage (gate) (6); the first side of the fixed base is connected to one end of wall (2) of the dam, and the second side of the fixed base is connected to one end of wall (3) of the dam;C - A water passage (gate) (6) formed between the first side and the second side of the fixed base, allowing water to flow toward the shore in order to rotate the blades of the giant turbine.D - Two movable bases (13-1) mounted on the two sides of the fixed base, moving vertically up and down according to the sea water level. Their function is to fix the axis of the giant turbine on them to carry the turbine and adjust its height according to the changing sea level.E - Large air tanks (13-2) connected to the two movable bases and floating inside cavities beneath the fixed base, used to raise or lower the movable bases according to the water level.F - Cylindrical columns (13-3), connect the air tanks and the platforms of the two movable bases to transfer the vertical motion from the air tanks to the platforms of the two movable bases.G - At least one changable height giant circular turbine (14) according to the sea water level, mounted with a horizontal axis above the two movable bases, such that its diameter is perpendicular to the sea surface. Only the tips of its blades are submerged in the water flowing through the water passage, converting the movement of the flowing sea water into rotational motion.H - A turbine shaft (15), is fixed at the center of the turbine and mounted above the platforms of the two movable bases at its sides by rotation rings (bearings), and it rotates with the rotation of the giant turbine in order to allow the turbine to rotate freely and smoothly and to transfer the turbine motion to the giant pulleys.I - A mechanical power transmission system comprising pulleys, gearboxes, belts, and belt tensioning devices;A mechanical power transmission system comprising:- Two giant pulleys (17) whose diameter can be adjusted as needed, mounted on both ends of the giant turbine shaft (15) and rotating with it, transferring the rotational motion of the turbine to the two gearboxes;- Two gearboxes (18), each mounted on one side of the fixed base, work to convert the rotational speed generated by the giant turbine into a suitable speed for operating the electric generators, and then transferring this motion to the generators;- Two pulleys (19), each connected to one of the two gearboxes (18), and linked to the giant pulleys (17) via belts for motion transmission.- Two belt tensioning pulleys (25), mounted on the fixed base, each connected to the giant pulley (17) and the gearbox pulley (19) via a motion transmission belt, and functioning to keep the belts appropriately tensioned to ensure efficient motion transmission.J - At least two electric power generators mounted on the fixed base, connected to the gearboxes to generate electric power from the turbine's rotation.2- The system according to claim (1), wherein the sea dam includes a side wall (1) perpendicular to the shore and connected to the land at point (A), its function being to prevent seawater from entering the area enclosed by the sea dam from one side of the sea dam.3- The system according to claim (1), wherein the sea dam includes a wall (2) on the side opposite the shore, attached at one end to wall (1) and at the other end to the first side of the fixed base at point (C), its function being to prevent seawater from entering the area enclosed by the sea dam from the front side of the sea dam.4- The system according to claim (1), wherein the sea dam includes a wall (3) on the side opposite the shore, attached at one end to the second side of the fixed base at point (D) and at the other end to one end of wall (4), its function being to prevent seawater from reaching the shore inside the area enclosed by the sea dam from the front side of the sea dam.5- The system according to claim (1), wherein the sea dam comprises a side wall (4) perpendicular to the shore, parallel to wall (1), and attached at one of its ends to wall number (3), its function being to prevent seawater from entering the area enclosed by the sea dam from one side of the sea dam.6- The system according to claim (1), wherein the sea dam can enclose a large area (2000 square meters or more) adjacent to the shore.7- The system according to claim (1), wherein the fixed base is mounted on concrete or steel columns (5-6), and cavities (5-9) are also formed beneath the fixed base, said cavities being closed from the sea side and closed from the water passage side and open from the shore side, allowing water to enter them (beneath the fixed base) during high tide and exit during low tide, thereby allowing the air tanks (13-2) to float and thus move up and down according to the sea water level.8- The system according to claim (1), wherein the fixed base consists of two sides, each of which is also closed from the sea side and from the waterpassage side and open from the inner side of the sea dam, in order to allow seawater to accumulate beneath the sides of the base during high and low tides and raise the air tanks... of the movable base.9- The system according to claim (1), wherein the fixed base consists of two sides, and each end of the fixed base includes two platforms: a lower platform, the height of which is not less than the height of the sea dam attached to it, upon which the gearbox, electric generators, and tension pulley box are installed; and a upper platform that is heigher than the lower platform, which is used to mount the movable base on which the turbine shaft is fixed. It is raised further to elevate the axis and center of the turbine to an appropriate height away from sea level, as well as to ensure that the difference in height between the two platforms keeps the pulleys (the giant pulley (17), the gearbox pulley (18), and the tensioning pulley (25)) not aligned in a straight line, thereby ensuring that the drive belt does not loosen.10- The system according to claim (1), wherein the fixed base consists of two sides , and each end of the base contains a horizontal cavity (5-5) between the upper and lower platforms (at the end of the fixed base), the function of which is to allow the end of the giant pulley to descend as far as possible, move freely, and prevent the edges of the giant pulley from rubbing or colliding with the platform of the fixed base.11- The system according to claim (1), wherein the fixed base consists of two sides, and each end contains cylindrical openings (in the upper platform), the function of which is to allow the passage of the movable base columns and to allow their vertical movement up and down.12- The system according to claim (1), wherein the fixed base consists of two sides, and the height of the fixed base can also be adjusted depending on the depth of the sea at the installation location and also depending on the desired diameter of the giant turbine to enable obtaining the greatest possible torque from the turbine's rotation.13- The system according to claim (1), wherein the fixed base (5) is characterized by the possibility of being manufactured at a great height above sea level, reaching up to (80 meters or more), depending on what suits the diameter of the giant turbine.14- The system according to claim (1), wherein the water passage (6) is characterized in that its width is designable to correspond to the tidal force at the installation site, thereby achieving improved operational efficiency for power generation.15- The system according to claim (1), wherein the water passage (6) is characterized in that a gate can be installed at both its sides, which can be closed to stop the flow of water and stop the movement of the giant turbine for maintenance operations or any other works.16- The system according to claim (1), wherein the two movable bases contain upper platforms (13-1), each mounted on one side of the fixed base, and are used to fix the turbine shaft, and are raised and lowered by means of the columns and air tanks.17- The system according to claim (1), wherein the large air tanks connected to the two movable bases are at least two in number, each installed in the cavity located under each side of the fixed base, and are characterized in that they float on the water and move up and down vertically to raise and lower the movable base according to the sea water level. This is a unique feature not found in any of the previous inventions.18- The system according to claim (1), wherein the cylindrical columns (13-3) are at least two in number, fixed at the top to the platform of the movable base and at the bottom to the air tanks, passing through cylindrical openings in the platform of the fixed base, and are fixed at the bottom in the air tanks with a fixing base and large bolts (13-6), and fixed at the top in the platform of the movable base with a fixing base and large bolts (13-7).19- The system according to claim (1), wherein the giant circular turbine (14) is not submerged under seawater and is thus characterized by the ability to control its diameter and manufacture it in a very large size reaching 120 meters or more as needed, and is not restricted to a specific diameter. This allows for the maximum possible torque to be obtained from the turbine's rotation, resulting in the ability to generate the maximum possible amount of electrical energy. This is a unique feature not found in any of the previous inventions.20- According to claim (1), the two movable bases (13) are characterized by moving vertically up and down (according to the rise and fall of the sea water level) to ensure that a large part of the giant turbine is not submerged in seawater, thereby ensuring the concentration of the sea water flow force on the edges of the giant turbine, and thus obtaining the maximum torque that can be generated from the turbine rotation. This is a unique feature not found in any of the previous inventions.21- According to claim (1), the turbine (14) includes blades (14-1) fixed regularly on the turbine body, which are the parts that collide (with their edges) with the water flowing through the water passage (6) to cause the turbine to rotate.22- According to claim (1), the giant circular turbine (14) is fixed at its center by a horizontal shaft (15) with a fixing base and bolts (16), so that the shaft rotates with the turbine's rotation. The shaft is installed on the two movable bases (13) such that the turbine diameter is perpendicular to the sea surface.23- According to claim (1), the horizontal shaft (15) is fixed on the sides of the movable base platforms (13) by bearings (13-4) of the spherical or cylindrical type to allow the turbine shaft (15) to rotate smoothly and freely.24- According to claim (l),and claim(14) the width of the water passage (6) can be controlled, and the width of the edges of the giant turbine blades (14-1) can also be controlled, thereby controlling the pressure force of the sea water flow on the edges of the turbine blades and thus controlling the torque force resulting from the rotation of the giant turbine.25- According to claim (1), the two giant pulleys (17), each of which is fixed from its center at the end of the turbine shaft. Each of the two giant pulleys (17) is connected to the gearbox pulley (19) by a belt to transfer motion.26- According to the claim, the diameter of each of the two giant pulleys can be controlled, resulting in the ability to generate the maximum possible electrical energy. This is a unique feature not found in any previous inventions. l- According to claim (1), the two gearboxes (18) fixed on the fixed base are connected from the back to the electric generator to transfer the motion of the giant turbine to the generator after changing its speed.28- The system according to claim (1) is characterized by the possibility of connecting more than one electric generator in the gearbox (18), thereby obtaining the maximum possible electrical power. This is a unique feature not found in any previous inventions.29- According to claim (1), each of the two tension pulleys is connected to a metal arm connected to box (24), which contains flexible metal springs to pull the tension pulley arm (26), thus keeping the tension pulley properly tensioned to prevent slack in the motion transfer belt.30- According to claim (1), more than one fixed base can be linked in the sea dam on the side facing the sea to serve the same purpose.31- According to any of the previous claims, the electrical power generation system is characterized by its location near the shore and its partially exposed design above the water. It includes a giant variable-height turbine that can be designed in attractive forms, which also allows for additional facilities for visitors, tourists, or students, including viewing walkways or observation platforms overlooking the turbine movement and the process of generating electrical power from seawater. This enables the system to be used as a tourist and educational landmark that demonstrates the turbine movement and power generation in real time, achieving tourism, aesthetic, and educational benefits alongside power generation.32- According to any of the previous claims, by choosing another design, the gearboxes and electric generators can be installed on the moving platform that moves synchronously with the turbine near the giant pulleys, which eliminates the need for a tension pulley.

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