Water-driven elongated conveyor turbine and how to use a water-driven elongated conveyor turbine.

Abstract

WATER-DRIVEN ELONGATED CONVEYOR TURBINE AND HOW TO USE A WATER-DRIVEN ELONGATED CONVEYOR TURBINE. A water-driven turbine has an elongated endless conveyor with descending and ascending lines connected by displacement reversal curves. The blades mounted on the conveyor exhibit high resistance to water flow in the downstream line and low resistance to water flow or the atmosphere in the upstream line. This differential allows the water flow to continuously drive the conveyor, which is connected to a power take-off shaft, facilitating connection to a variety of energy harvesting systems. The turbine can be towed, self-driven, or moored to a flow location and is operable in unidirectional flows, such as rivers, and reverse flows, such as tides, at depths from the surface to the bottom. The blades can be mounted or changed on land, at the flow location, and anywhere in between.The turbine is efficient in both low and high velocity water flow, is not easily damaged by floating debris, is cavitation-free, and is environmentally friendly to fish, mammals, and other animals.

Description

1 / 46 Water-driven elongated conveyor turbine and how to use a water-driven elongated conveyor turbine. Background of the Invention

[001] This invention generally relates to the conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy and, more particularly, relates to harnessing the energy generated by the movement of large masses of water, such as ocean tides and the flow of rivers and streams.

[002] The two most common types of hydrokinetic turbines are axial flow turbines and cross-flow turbines. Axial flow turbines are devices similar to Ferris wheels. The peripheral blades rotate around a central geometric axis. Each blade is perpendicular to the motive water flow only at the nadir of the wheel. Cross-flow turbines are propeller-like devices. The radial blades on a central axis rotate transversely to the motive water flow.

[003] Low-head turbines, such as water wheels, have extremely low efficiency. Therefore, river stretches with little or no flow are not economical resources for generating axial water flow power. More traditional turbines such as Francis, Pelton, and Kaplan turbines require high water heads to generate the pressure and velocity necessary for operation. Therefore, river stretches with little or no flow are not economical resources for generating cross-flow water power.

[004] Most tidal turbines currently available are of low efficiency and intended for use in high-velocity waters. The high-velocity requirement Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 11 / 66 2 / 46 limits the available deployment locations because desirable tidal areas are generally located in sparsely populated regions, far from peak electricity demand.

[005] It is therefore an object of this invention to provide a water-powered turbine that can extract energy from flowing water at any speed. Another object of this invention is to provide a water-powered turbine that is efficient in both low and high-speed water flow. Yet another object of this invention is to provide a water-powered turbine that is capable of operating while floating, resting on a waterbed, or at any intermediate depth. A further object of this invention is to provide a water-powered turbine that can be towed from the shore to the site. It is also an object of this invention to provide a water-powered turbine that can be towed or self-propelled to the installation site. Still another object of this invention is to provide a water-powered turbine that mitigates the significance of the impact of its components with floating debris. Yet another object of this invention is to provide a water-powered turbine that is cavitation-free.And it is an objective of this invention to provide a water-powered turbine that is friendly to fish and mammals. Summary of the invention

[006] A fixed-blade power-generating turbine according to the invention uses water flow to drive an endless conveyor along a path that includes downstream and upstream straightaways. The blades are spaced at equal or variable intervals along, fixed, and extending outward from the conveyor. Blades extend downward into Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 12 / 66 3 / 46 Water flow in the downstream straight line and upwards off the water flow in the upstream straight line. The blades extending downwards are driven downstream by the water flow. At least significant portions of the blades extending upwards are propelled against the atmosphere. Because of the force differential, the blades in the downstream flow immediately cause the auger to move along its path.

[007] Each blade is independently interchangeable with replacement blades of different shapes, sizes and / or angles of attack to suit the operating mode and water flow characteristics. In deployment mode, the conveyor is responsive to an external drive to cause the turbine to crawl from one location to another. In operating mode, the conveyor is responsive to water flow to cause the turbine to generate power.

[008] The fixed-blade turbine generator is primarily intended to operate on the surface of a water stream and may be moored using a multi-point system with corresponding independently adjustable mooring lines or a single-point oscillating mooring line. The turbine may include legs attached to its frame to support the turbine at the bottom. The legs may be filled with ballast to stabilize the turbine's orientation in the water when the legs are not supported on the bottom. The fixed-blade turbine generator may include one or more modules mounted on its frame and capable of holding a sufficient amount of buoyancy or ballast medium to adjust the turbine's level to a predetermined elevation in the water stream. The amount of buoyancy or ballast medium may be Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 13 / 66 4 / 46 variable to allow for changes in turbine elevation in water flow. The modules can be diversified to allow independent variation of the amount of buoyancy or ballast medium in each module.

[009] A unidirectional articulated blade power-generating turbine according to the invention utilizes water flow to drive an endless conveyor along a path with downstream and upstream straight lines. The blades are spaced at equal or variable intervals along and articulated to the conveyor and are limited to oscillating within high-resistance orientations when on the downstream straight line and within low-resistance orientations when on the upstream flow straight line. Independent cables connected between the corresponding blades and the conveyor prevent the blades on the downstream straight line from rotating beyond a maximum high-resistance orientation. When in their high-resistance orientations, the blades are driven downstream by the water flow, causing the endless conveyor to move continuously along its path.

[0010] Each blade is independently interchangeable with replacement blades of different shapes, sizes and / or angles of attack to suit the operating mode and water flow characteristics. In a deployment mode, the conveyor is responsive to an external drive to cause the turbine to crawl from one location to another. In an operating mode, the conveyor is responsive to water flow to cause the turbine to generate power.

[0011] The unidirectional articulated blade power generating turbine is intended to operate on the surface or below the water flow and can be anchored using a system of points. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 14 / 66 5 / 46 multiples with independently adjustable mooring lines or a single-point oscillating mooring line. The turbine may include legs attached to its structure to support the turbine at the bottom. The legs may be filled with ballast to stabilize the turbine's orientation in the water when the legs are not supported on the bottom. The unidirectional articulated blade power generating turbine may include one or more modules mounted on its structure and capable of holding a sufficient amount of buoyancy or ballast medium to adjust the turbine's level at a predetermined elevation in the water flow. The amount of buoyancy or ballast medium may be variable to allow for alteration of the turbine's elevation in the water flow. The modules may be multiple to allow independent variation of the amount of buoyancy or ballast medium in each module.

[0012] A bidirectional articulated blade power generating turbine according to the invention utilizes reversible or tidal water flows to drive an endless conveyor along a path including opposing flow lines. The blades are spaced at equal or variable intervals along the path and are alternately articulated opposite to the conveyor. When on the downstream line in one direction of the reverse water flow, the odd-numbered blades swing within high-resistance orientations. When on the downstream line in the opposite direction of the reverse water flow, the even-numbered blades oscillate within high-resistance orientations. When on the upstream line in either direction of the water flow, all blades oscillate within low-resistance orientations. Independent cables connect between the blades. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 15 / 66 The corresponding 6 / 46 blades and the conveyor prevent the blades from rotating beyond a maximum high-resistance orientation when they are in the downstream straight line. When in their high-resistance orientations, the blades are driven downstream by the water flow, causing the auger conveyor to move continuously along its path.

[0013] Each blade is independently interchangeable with replacement blades of different shapes, sizes and / or angles of attack to suit the operating mode and water flow characteristics. In a deployment mode, the conveyor is responsive to an external drive to cause the turbine to crawl from one location to another. In an operating mode, the conveyor is responsive to reverse water flows to cause the turbine to generate power continuously.

[0014] The bidirectional articulated blade power generating turbine can operate at or below the surface of the water flow and can be moored at or below the surface using a multi-point mooring system with corresponding independently adjustable mooring lines, preferably at least one at each end of the turbine, to keep the carrier aligned with the reverse water flows. The turbine may include legs attached to its frame to support the turbine at the bottom.

[0015] The legs can also be filled with ballast to stabilize the turbine's orientation in the water when the legs are not supported on the bottom. The bidirectional articulated blade power-generating turbine may include one or more modules mounted on its structure and capable of containing a sufficient amount of buoyancy or ballast medium. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 16 / 66 7 / 46 to adjust the turbine level at a predetermined elevation in the water flow. The amount of buoyancy or ballast medium can be variable to allow for changes in the turbine elevation in the water flow. Multiple modules can be used to allow independent variation of the amount of buoyancy or ballast medium in each module.

[0016] The bidirectional articulated blade power generating turbine can be oriented in the water flow with the conveyor traveling around the horizontal or vertical axes. Preferably, the turbine will have a cover protecting the blades in the upstream direction against direct attack from the downstream water flow.

[0017] In a fixed-blade energy conversion method according to the invention, spaced-out blades extending outwards of a shape, size, and angle of attack suitable for converting the energy of the water flow into electrical energy are fixed to an elongated endless conveyor. The conveyor is aligned longitudinally in a water flow at an elevation where the blades extending upwards from the conveyor are at least partially above and the blades extending downwards from the conveyor are below the surface of the water flow. The conveyor is fixed in the aligned orientation, and the water flow can propel the blades extending downwards from the conveyor downstream to rotate the conveyor.

[0018] Blades of the appropriate shape, size and angle of attack to enable the conveyor to crawl from one location to another can initially be attached to the conveyor and the conveyor driven by a power source. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 17 / 66 8 / 46 external power to transport the turbine from one location to another location where the external source can be disconnected and the creeping blades replaced, if necessary, with power-generating blades.

[0019] The elevation of the conveyor in the water flow can be adjusted by injecting a flotation or ballast medium into a level control module fixed to a conveyor structure and adjusted by varying the amount of medium injected.

[0020] Before aligning the carrier in the water flow, a single-point oscillating mooring line adapted to keep the carrier in the direction of the tidal flow can be attached to a carrier structure or, alternatively, a multi-point mooring system with independently adjustable matching mooring lines can be attached to a carrier structure, for use in positioning the carrier in the water flow. In this latter alternative, the mooring lines can also be adjusted independently to carry the carrier from the shore into the water flow.

[0021] In a method of converting energy from a unidirectional articulated blade surface according to the invention, blades of suitable shape, size, and angle of attack for converting water flow energy into electrical energy are articulated at intervals to an elongated endless conveyor to oscillate within high and low resistance orientations. The conveyor is aligned longitudinally in a water flow at an elevation where the articulated blades, when in a straight line upstream of the conveyor, extend at least partially above a surface of the flow. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 18 / 66 9 / 46 water within the low-resistance orientations and, when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor, extend fully into the water flow within the high-resistance orientations. The conveyor is secured in the aligned orientation and the water flow is allowed to propel the blades in the straight line downstream of the conveyor to rotate the endless conveyor.

[0022] Blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to enable the conveyor to crawl from one location to another may initially be attached to the conveyor and the conveyor driven by an external power source to transport the turbine from one location to another location where the external source may be disengaged and the crawling blades replaced, if necessary, with power-generating blades.

[0023] The elevation of the conveyor in the water flow can be adjusted by injecting a flotation or ballast medium into a level control module fixed to a conveyor structure and altered by varying the amount of medium injected.

[0024] Before aligning the conveyor in the water flow, a single-point oscillating mooring line adapted to keep the conveyor in the direction of the tidal flow can be attached to a conveyor frame or, alternatively, a multi-point mooring system with corresponding independently adjustable mooring lines can be attached to a conveyor frame, for use in positioning the conveyor in the water flow. In this latter alternative, the mooring lines can also be adjusted independently to Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 19 / 66 10 / 46 transport the transporter from the shore to the water flow.

[0025] In a method of converting energy below the surface of unidirectional articulated blades according to the invention, blades of suitable shape, size, and angle of attack for converting water flow energy into electrical energy are articulated at intervals to an elongated auger conveyor to oscillate within high and low resistance orientations. The conveyor is aligned longitudinally in a water flow at an elevation where the articulated blades are below a surface of the water flow, either in the upstream or downstream straight lines of the conveyor, and oscillate within high resistance orientations when in the downstream straight line and within low resistance orientations when in the upstream straight line. The conveyor is fixed in the aligned orientation, and the water flow is allowed to propel the blades in the downstream straight line of the conveyor to rotate the auger conveyor.

[0026] Blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to enable the conveyor to crawl from one location to another may initially be attached to the conveyor and the conveyor driven by an external power source to transport the turbine from one location to another location where the external source may be disengaged and the crawling blades replaced, if necessary, with power-generating blades.

[0027] The elevation of the conveyor in the water flow can be adjusted by injecting a flotation or ballast medium into a level control module fixed to a conveyor structure and altered by varying the amount of medium injected. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 20 / 66 11 / 46

[0028] Before aligning the carrier in the water flow, a single-point oscillating mooring line adapted to keep the carrier in the direction of the tidal flow can be attached to a carrier structure or, alternatively, a multi-point mooring system with corresponding independently adjustable mooring lines can be attached to a carrier structure, for use in positioning the carrier in the water flow. In this latter alternative, the mooring lines can also be adjusted independently to carry the carrier from the shore into the water flow.

[0029] In a bidirectional articulated blade surface energy conversion method according to the invention, blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack for converting water flow energy into electrical energy are articulated at intervals to an elongated endless conveyor. The alternating blades are limited to oscillating in opposite directions within high and low resistance orientations, the odd-numbered blades oscillating within the high-resistance orientations when in the downstream direction of the conveyor, the even-numbered blades oscillating in the high-resistance orientations when in the downstream direction of the conveyor, and all blades oscillating within the low-resistance orientations in the upstream direction of the conveyor.The conveyor is aligned longitudinally in a reverse flow of water at an elevation where the articulated blades, when in the upstream direction of the conveyor, extend at least partially above a surface of the water flow and, when in the downstream direction of the conveyor, extend fully into the water flow. The conveyor is secured in... Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 21 / 66 12 / 46 aligned orientation. Flow in one direction of reverse flow is allowed to drive the odd-numbered blades on the downstream line and cause the conveyor to generate energy. Flow in the opposite direction of reverse flow is allowed to drive the even-numbered blades on the downstream line. Thus, the conveyor generates energy continuously.

[0030] Before aligning the conveyor in the water flow, at least two independently adjustable mooring lines can be attached to a conveyor structure. The mooring lines can be adjusted independently to position the conveyor in the reverse flow path and, in narrow channels, to transport the conveyor from the shore into the water flow.

[0031] In a method of converting energy below the surface of bidirectional articulated blades according to the invention, blades of suitable shape, size, and angle of attack for converting water flow energy into electrical energy are articulated at intervals to an elongated endless conveyor. The alternating blades are limited to oscillating in opposite directions within high and low resistance orientations, the odd-numbered blades oscillating within high-resistance orientations when in the downstream straight line of the conveyor, the even-numbered blades oscillating in high-resistance orientations when in the downstream straight line of the conveyor, and all blades oscillating within low-resistance orientations in the upstream straight line of the conveyor. The blades in the upstream straight line are protected against direct attack from the downstream water flow. The conveyor is aligned longitudinally in the reverse flow of water at an elevation where the articulated blades are fully in the water flow. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 22 / 66 13 / 46 on opposite flow lines. The conveyor is fixed in the aligned orientation. Flow in one reverse flow direction is allowed to drive the odd-numbered blades on the downstream line and cause the conveyor to generate power. Flow in the opposite reverse flow direction is allowed to drive the even-numbered blades on the downstream line and cause the conveyor to generate power. Thus, the conveyor generates power continuously.

[0032] Before aligning the conveyor in the water flow, a multi-point mooring system with corresponding independently adjustable mooring lines can be attached to a conveyor frame. The mooring lines can be adjusted independently to position the conveyor in the reverse flow path and, in narrow channels, to transport the conveyor from the shore into the water flow. Brief description of the drawings

[0033] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent after reading the detailed description below and with reference to the drawings in which: Figure 1 is a rear left upper perspective view of a preferred conveyor and power take-off assembly of a water-driven turbine according to the invention; Figure 2 is a right elevation view of the left side of the preferred conveyor and power take-off assembly of Figure 1; Figures 3A to 3G are upper right front perspective views of exemplary interchangeable blades usable with water-powered turbines according to the Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 23 / 66 14 / 46 invention; Figure 4 is a front upper right perspective view of a fixed-blade water-driven turbine according to the invention; Figure 5 is a front elevation view of the fixed-blade water-powered turbine shown in Figure 4; Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of the orientation of a single fixed blade during a single rotation of the fixed-blade water-driven turbine conveyor of Figure 4; Figure 7 is a top right front perspective view of a unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine according to the invention; Figure 8 is a plan view of the unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7; Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view along line 9-9 of Figure 8; Figure 10 is an elevation view of the right end of the unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7; Figure 11 is a schematic illustration of the orientation of a single articulated blade during a single rotation of the unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine conveyor of Figure 7; Figure 12 is a right upper front perspective view of another unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine according to the invention; Figure 13 is a front elevation view with the front structure wall removed of a bidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine according to the invention operating in a downstream tidal flow towards Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 24 / 66 15 / 46 to its main drive sprocket assembly; Figure 14 is a front elevation view with the front structure wall removed of the bidirectional water-driven turbine of Figure 13 operating in a reverse tidal flow directed downstream away from the main drive sprocket assembly; Figure 15 is a schematic illustration of the orientation of two adjacent articulated blades during a single rotation of the conveyor in one direction of the bidirectional turbine of Figure 14; Figure 16 is a schematic illustration of the orientation of two adjacent articulated blades during a single rotation of the conveyor in a direction opposite to that of the bidirectional turbine in Figure 14; Figure 17 is a front upper right perspective view of the unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7 with an attached single-level control module; Figure 18 is a top right front perspective view of the unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7 with various adjustable level control modules attached; Figure 19 is a top left front perspective view of the unidirectional water-driven articulated blade turbine of Figure 7 with drive shafts aligned on vertical axes and with adjustable level control modules attached; Figure 20 is an elevation view of the left side of the unidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine in Figure 19; Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 25 / 66 16 / 46 Figure 21 is a top left front perspective view of a bidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine according to the invention with drive shafts aligned on vertical axes, with several adjustable level control modules attached and with a housing containing the blades in its upstream straight operating in a tidal flow directed downstream towards its driven shaft; Figure 22 is an upper left front perspective view of the bidirectional articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 21 operating in a reverse tidal flow directed downstream of its driven shaft; Figure 23 is an upper right front perspective view of the hinged blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7 with an added cover; Figure 24 is a side elevation view of the articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 23; Figure 25 is a front elevation view of the articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7 with an added water flow directing fairing; Figure 26 is a side elevation view of the articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 25; Figure 27 is an upper right front perspective view of the hinged blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7 mounted in a water flow confinement channel; Figure 28 is a side elevation view of the water-driven articulated blade turbine in Figure 27; Figure 29 is a plan view of the articulated blade water-powered turbine of Figure 7 moored to the bank of a river by a four-point harness; and Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 26 / 66 17 / 46 Figure 30 is a plan view of the articulated blade water-driven turbine of Figure 7 tied together by a single-point system.

[0034] Although the invention is described in connection with its preferred embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments or to the details of the construction or arrangement of the parts illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Detailed description Common Components of Various Turbine Types

[0035] Going back first to Figures 1 and 2, various embodiments of a water-driven turbine according to the invention have in common an elongated endless conveyor 10 including a downstream straight section 11 and an upstream straight section 13 connected at their ends by downstream and upstream displacement reversal bends 15 and 17. As used in this document, downstream and upstream and downstream and upstream are in reference to the direction of water flow F. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the preferred conveyor 10 consists of two longitudinal chains 20 and two sets of sprockets 30 in the width direction, preferably identical, forming a generally orthogonal conveyor 10.

[0036] Each conveyor chain 20 consists of a series of links 21 in which corresponding blade attachment links 23 are interspersed. Each sprocket assembly 30 has two sprockets 31, one mounted at each end of a transverse shaft 33 for rotation in unison. Each longitudinal conveyor chain 20 is engaged with the corresponding sprockets 31 of the two Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 27 / 66 18 / 46 sets of sprockets 30. The shafts 33 and sprockets 31 rotate and the chains 20 move in unison either clockwise or counterclockwise. In deployment mode, an external power source (not shown) drives the conveyor 10. In power generation mode, the water flow F drives the conveyor 10.

[0037] Continuing to look at Figures 1 and 2, a preferred support structure 40 for the chains 20 and sprocket assemblies 30 has at least one elongated inner module 41 capped by two identical end modules 43. The end modules 43 are adapted to support the sprocket assemblies 30 described above. The ability to connect in series several identical inner modules 41 between the end modules 43 facilitates efficiency in turbine assembly and also allows for the assembly of more efficient turbines.

[0038] The internal modules 41 shown have longitudinal side panels 45 spaced by longitudinal crossbars 27. The terminal modules 43 shown have longitudinal side panels 47 spaced by connection to the ends of their corresponding internal module side panels 45 and by the structure of their corresponding transverse sprocket assemblies 30. Preferably, and as shown, the sprockets 31 of both sprocket assemblies 30 will be of equal diameter, so that the chains 20 will have parallel straight lines downstream and upstream 11 and 13.

[0039] In an operable reduced-scale test prototype, and as shown in Figures 1 and 2, a structure 40 with two internal modules 41, each two meters long Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 28 / 66 19 / 46 length, were capped by end frame modules 43, each half a meter long. The side panels 45 and 47 of the interior and end modules 41 and 43 were fabricated from painted steel sections. The end modules 43 were fitted with transport tensioners (not shown). Every third link of each conveyor chain 20 was a blade fastening link 23, facilitating a wide variety of blade configurations. Interchangeable Blades

[0040] Still looking at Figures 1 and 2, and as explained above, each conveyor chain 20 consists of a series of links 21 interspersed with blade attachment links 23. The blade attachment links 23 are aligned on longitudinal axes 25 of the conveyor 10. The turbine efficiency will depend, at least in part, on the spacing of the blades attached to the blade attachment links 23. The spaces between the blade attachment links 23 may be equal or variable in length and may be asymmetrical. However, it is not necessary that each blade attachment link 23 be used for attaching a blade, and the distances between the blade attachment links 23 used may be constant, symmetrically sequenced, or random, so that the blade spacing is easily varied. The more frequent the attachment links of the blades 23 on the conveyor chains 20, the greater the flexibility in the arrangement of the blades.

[0041] The efficiency of a turbine in its deployment and power generation modes is, at least in part, dependent on the number, size and shape of the blades 50 and the idle angles 55 and angle of attack 57 of the blades attached to the blade fastening links 23. As used in this document, Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 29 / 66 The elongated 20 / 46 design characterizes the blades as being straight for a distance that supports more than one blade at a time. In deployment mode, smaller blades are more suitable to facilitate moving the turbine from one location to another, whether on land or off-water. When a turbine reaches a buoyancy depth in the water, smaller blades can be replaced with larger blades to provide faster deployment displacement. Once deployment is complete, the blades can be changed again to maximize the turbine's power generation performance. The conveyor 10 shown allows blade changes to be made on land or in water.

[0042] Returning to Figures 3A-3G, the different blades 50 shown are examples of a wide range of blade options. Long, flat rectangular blades 50a, as seen in Figure 3A, are preferred in deeper water, typically greater than five meters and more likely in ocean currents because of the water depth and because larger blades will not be impacted by the surroundings. Short, flat rectangular blades 50b, as seen in Figure 3B, are preferred in shallow water, typically less than five meters and more likely in rivers and similar waterways with shallow depths where drag on the riverbed or waterway can retard the rotation of the turbine carrier 10. Angled blades 50c, as seen in Figure 3C, reduce the drag applied during the transition from the downstream straight line 11 to the upstream straight line 13.Arched 50d blades, as seen in Figure 3D, may have a curvature in the vertical plane accommodating the water flow velocity to maximize turbulence at the blade edges. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 30 / 66 21 / 46 intermediate length blades 50e, such as those seen in Figure 3E, may be preferred when the turbine is mounted in a channel or is bidirectional. Very short blades 50f, such as those seen in Figure 3F, may be preferred when a turbine is operating in a creeping or self-deploying mode on the shore or in very shallow water. Arched blades 50g, such as those seen in Figure 3G, may have a useful horizontal plane curvature in low-velocity water flow conditions, acting as a bucket to harness larger volumes of water to generate power and allowing water at the rear of the blade to be diverted around the blade edge so that each blade does not push the water. Whether blades are suitable for use in relation to creeping turbine blades and power-generating blades can be determined empirically.

[0043] Continuing to observe Figures 3A-3G, the exemplary blades 50a-g, generically identified as blades 50, may be made of a rigid material, perhaps plastic or metal. Each of the blades 50 is reinforced by a crossbar 51. The ends 53 of the bar 51 are configured to be mounted on their corresponding blade fastening links 23 to secure the blade 50 between the conveyor chains 20. The blade fastening links 23 cooperate with the bar 51 to facilitate the changing of blades 50 and to lock the blade 50 onto the conveyor chains 20 at a selected idle angle 55 relative to the conveyor 10. Drive Chain Options

[0044] Returning to Figures 1 and 2, the downstream water flow F in which the turbine is installed can be towards Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 31 / 66 22 / 46 any of the sprocket assemblies 30. As shown, the upstream sprocket assembly 30 was arbitrarily selected to serve as the primary drive sprocket assembly. As also shown, the downstream water flow direction F was arbitrarily chosen to flow from the primary drive sprocket assembly 30 towards the secondary sprocket assembly 30.

[0045] The sprocket assembly 30 serving as the main sprocket assembly is modified by the addition of at least one, and as shown, two main drive sprockets 35. The main drive sprockets 35 are mounted for rotation in unison with their respective sprocket mounting shaft 33 and are coupled by corresponding main drive chains 37 to corresponding power take-off (PTO) sprockets 39 mounted on and for rotation with a PTO shaft S. The PTO shaft S is supported on supports 49 added to the support structure 40 and has an extended length to facilitate connection to a wide variety of power harvesting systems. Fixed-Blade Turbines

[0046] Returning now to Figures 4-5, in the fixed-blade turbine 100 shown, eleven blades 50 are spaced along the conveyor 10 and fixed to the conveyor chains 20. The blades 50 are said to be fixed to the conveyor chains 20 because each blade locking link 23 locks its blade 50 in a constant angular relationship with its blade locking link 23. Therefore, the blades 50 always extend outward from the conveyor 10 at an angle of slack 55 relative to the upstream line 13 and at an angle of attack 57 relative to the Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 32 / 66 23 / 46 straight downstream 13. Preferably, and as shown, angles 55 and 57 are equal and blades 50 are in planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axes 29 of the conveyor 10 when on straight lines 13 and 15 and their blade attachment links 23 when on curves 17 and 19.

[0047] The fixed-blade turbine 100 is intended to be operated with the upstream straight line 13 of the conveyor 10 generally parallel to the surface of the water flow F. It is well suited for use in a river or other unidirectional waterway, as shown in a water flow F from the main drive sprocket assembly 30 towards the secondary sprocket assembly 30, but water flow from the secondary sprocket assembly 30 towards the main drive sprocket assembly 30 would also work.

[0048] The fixed-blade turbine 100 is also capable of bidirectional operation. For example, in a tidal power generation mode, if the water flow F in one direction results in clockwise displacement of the conveyor 10, the tidal reversal will result in counterclockwise displacement of the conveyor 10. In either direction of tidal flow, the PTO shaft S will still transfer energy from the turbine 100 to the energy harvesting device (not shown).

[0049] Figure 6 illustrates a single transport cycle C for a single fixed blade 50 during its power generation operating mode. While the blade attachment link 23 is on the downstream straight line 11, its blade 50 extends downwards in the water flow F. As the blade attachment link 23 transits the downstream curve 15, the blade 50 remains Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 33 / 66 24 / 46 perpendicular to its blade attachment link 23, generally radially outward from the carrier 10. While the blade attachment link 23 is on the upstream straight line 13, its blade 50 extends upward into the atmosphere. As the blade attachment link 23 transits through the upstream curve 17, the blade 50 remains perpendicular to its blade attachment link 23, generally radially outward from the carrier 10. This completes a C cycle for a blade 50 of the fixed-blade turbine 100.

[0050] The blades 50 are entirely in the water flow F when on the downstream line 11 and at least partially and preferably entirely above the surface on the upstream line 13. Therefore, the water flow F drives the downstream extending blades 50 and the blades at least partially above the surface 50 move upstream against a smaller force. The force differential continuously causes the blades 50 on the downstream line 11 to drive the conveyor chains 20 to move along the endless conveyor path, driving the sprockets 31 and the shaft 33 of the main sprocket assembly 30 and also the drive sprocket 35 added to the shaft 33. The PTO sprocket 39 and the PTO shaft 39 are supported on a single support 49 added to the support structure 40.The drive chain 37 connects the drive sprocket 35 and the PTO sprocket 39, and the PTO shaft S transfers energy from the fixed-blade turbine 100 to an energy-harvesting device (not shown). Unidirectional Articulated Blade Turbines

[0051] Returning now to Figures 7-11, in the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 200 shown, the structure Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 34 / 66 25 / 46 supports a conveyor 10 with twelve blades 50 spaced along and articulated to its chains 20. The main drive sprocket assembly 30 of the articulated blade turbine 200 is, as shown, the downstream assembly 30. Unlike the fixed blade turbine 100, the articulated blade turbine 200 has two main drive sprockets 35 mounted at respectively opposite ends, and for rotation in unison with its shaft 33 and each main drive sprocket 35 is coupled by a corresponding main drive chain 37 to the respective PTO sprockets 39 mounted at opposite ends of a PTO shaft S.

[0052] Observing Figures 7 and 9, on the downstream line 11, the articulated blades 50 oscillate within variable high-resistance orientations. High-resistance orientations are those angular orientations of a blade 50 from the downstream line 11 in which the blade 50 tends to oscillate in the direction of flow F towards a maximum high-resistance orientation. As seen in Figure 9, the blades 50 on the downstream line 11 have moved away from the downstream line 11 in a maximum high-resistance orientation in the water flow F. The maximum high-resistance orientation of each blade 50 is determined by a flexible cable 60 fixed at one end to a free corner of the blade 50 and at the other end to the conveyor 10, preferably to a blade attachment link 23 not otherwise used on the conveyor.As best seen in Figures 7 and 9, cables 60 limit the downstream oscillation of their respective blades 50 to a predetermined maximum high resistance orientation which, as shown, is at an angle of attack of 90° 57. The lengths of cables 60 or a. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, page 35 / 66 26 / 46 location of its connection points to the chains 20 can be adjusted to change the angle of attack 57.

[0053] Continuing to look at Figures 7 and 9, on the upstream line 13, the articulated blades 50 oscillate within variable low-resistance orientations. Low-resistance orientations are those angular orientations of a blade 50 from the upstream line in which the blade 50 tends to oscillate against the flow direction F towards a minimum low-resistance orientation. The minimum low-resistance orientation of each blade 50 is determined by its respective conveyor chain attachment link 23. However, as can be understood from Figures 7 and 9, an attachment link 23 can limit the upstream oscillation of its respective blades 50 to an angle where the blade 50 makes contact with its rear blade 50, or to a smaller or larger angle. If, as shown, the oscillation is limited to contact or to a smaller angle, the oscillation of the blade 50 will cease when contact is made between adjacent blades 50.If at a larger angle, the oscillation of blade 50 will end at the idle angle 55, before contact is made by the adjacent blades 50.

[0054] Figure 11 illustrates a single transport cycle C for an articulated blade 50 during its power generation operating mode. Looking at Figure 11 in view of Figures 7-10, while the blade attachment link 23 is on the downstream straight line 11, its blade 50 is held by its cable 60 in the orientation of maximum high resistance in the water flow F. As the blade attachment link 23 transits through the downstream bend 15, the flexible cable 60 is relaxed during half of the bend 15 as the distance between the link 23 Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 36 / 66 27 / 46 and the cable connection point 61 decreases. Therefore, the water flow F can cause the blade 50 to oscillate in accordance with the direction of the water flow F. As the blade fastening link 23 transits the next half of the curve 15 towards the upstream straight line 13, the flexible cables 60 tighten as the distance between the link 23 and the cable connection point 61 increases. When the attachment link of blade 23 is on the upstream line 13, the blades 50 are pulled to the upstream line 13 and the link 23 holds blade 50 at the idle angle 55. As best seen in Figures 7-10, the front blade 50 is also held in its minimum resistance orientation at the idle angle 55 predetermined by its conveyor chain attachment link 23. If, as shown, the blades 50 are longer than their spacing on the chains 20, the hinged end of the transition blade 50 will lie under the free end of the front blade 50.As the attachment link of blade 23 travels along the upstream line, blade 50 remains in the minimum resistance orientation. When the attachment link of blade 23 transitions to the upstream bend 17, blade 50 is held in the minimum resistance orientation and rotates with link 23 until its free end passes over its center of gravity. Blade 50 then oscillates in the direction and the water flow will cause blade 50 to fully oscillate to the maximum resistance orientation. Cable 60 limits the oscillation of blade 50 to the maximum resistance orientation. This completes one C cycle for a blade 50 of the fixed-blade turbine 200.

[0055] The articulated blade turbine 200 can be operated at any depth in the water because the articulated blades 50 moving in the downstream straight line 11 will be in the high-resistance orientation and the articulated blades 50 in the straight line a Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, p. 37 / 66 28 / 46 amount 13 will be in the low resistance orientation, partially or fully inside or outside the water.

[0056] As shown in Figures 7-11, and subsequently in Figures 17, 18 and 23-30, the conveyor of a unidirectional articulated blade turbine is generally in a horizontal orientation, but, as seen subsequently in Figures 19-22, the conveyor of a unidirectional articulated blade turbine may be in a generally vertical orientation.

[0057] In power generation operation mode, when blades 50 are in the downstream straight line 11, they oscillate in the high resistance orientations to the maximum high resistance orientation. When blades 50 are in the upstream straight line 13, they oscillate in the low resistance orientation. Therefore, the water flow F drives the blades 50 in the downstream straight section 11 and the differential force continuously drives the conveyor chains 20 to travel along the path of the endless conveyor, driving the sprockets 31 and the shaft 33 of the main sprocket assembly 30 and also the drive sprocket 35 added to the shaft 33. The PTO sprocket 39 and the PTO shaft S are supported on a single support 49 added to the support structure 40. The drive chain 37 connects the drive sprocket 35 and the PTO sprocket 39 and the PTO shaft S transfers energy from the turbine to an energy harvesting device (not shown).

[0058] Returning now to Figure 12, another unidirectional articulated blade turbine 300 according to the invention is consistent with the above description of the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 200 of Figures 7-11, except that Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 38 / 66 29 / 46 The turbine in Figure 12 300 has only six blades 50 and the spacing between the blades 50 is greater than the length of the blades 50. As a result, the blades 50 do not overlap on the upstream line 13. And, since the orientation of the blades 50 on the upstream line 13 is determined by their blade fastening links 23 being at the predetermined acute idle angle 55, the spacing of the joints 23 does not affect the operation. However, as will be seen below, if the spacing of the joints 23 is less than the length of the blades 50, the orientation of the blades 50 on the upstream line 13 will be determined by the contact of each blade 50 with its adjacent blade ahead or the predetermined idle angle 55, whichever occurs first.

[0059] Just as the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 200, in which the blades 50 on the upstream line 13 overlap, the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 300, in which the blades 50 do not overlap, can be operated at any depth in the water. The articulated blades 50 moving on the downstream line 11 will be in high-resistance orientations, and the articulated blades 50 on the upstream line 13, partially or fully in or out of the water, will be in low-resistance orientations. And the articulated blade turbine 300 can be operated with its carrier in a generally horizontal orientation or in a generally vertical orientation. Bidirectional Articulated Blade Turbines

[0060] Articulated blade turbines can be configured to operate in reverse water flows F, such as tidal flows, without reversing the turbine alignment. For example, looking at Figures 13-16, a bidirectional articulated blade turbine 400 has twelve blades 501-12 Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 39 / 66 30 / 46 alternately articulated so that six odd-numbered blades 50111 oscillate in one direction and six even-numbered blades 502-12 oscillate in the opposite direction.

[0061] In Figure 13, the tidal flow Fo is directed towards the main drive sprocket assembly 30. The six odd-numbered blades 501-11 are articulated so that they rotate downstream in high-resistance orientations towards the main drive sprocket assembly 30 when in the immediately upstream flow 11. Their downstream oscillation is limited by their respective cables 60 to their maximum resistance orientation. Their upstream oscillation is in low-resistance orientations limited by their respective fastening links 23 to their minimum resistance orientation, unless they first come into contact with their immediately upstream even-numbered blade 502-12.

[0062] At the conveyor displacement point shown in Figure 13, three odd-numbered blades 501-5 are in the maximum resistance orientation on the downstream line 11. The other three odd-numbered blades 507-11 are in the minimum resistance orientation on the upstream line 13. At the same time, three even-numbered blades 5012-4 are conforming to the water flow FO towards the minimum resistance orientation on the downstream line 11. The other three even-numbered blades 50e-10 are falling towards the minimum resistance orientation on the upstream line 13, but have contacted their immediately ahead odd-numbered blades 5079, limiting their oscillation before reaching the minimum resistance orientation.

[0063] Observing Figures 13 and 15, while both the fastening link 23 of the odd-numbered blade 501 and the connection point 61 of its respective flexible cable 60 are on the downstream line Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 40 / 66 31 / 46 11, the odd-numbered blade 50i is limited by its cable 23 to the maximum high-resistance orientation in the water flow Fo. At the same time, the flexible cable 61 of the even-numbered blade adjacent to the path 502 is relaxed, allowing the even-numbered blade adjacent to the path 502 to oscillate accordingly in the direction of the water flow Fo.

[0064] Continuing to observe Figures 13 and 15, the cooperation of the fastening links 23, cables 60 and connection points 61 of the cables 60 to the conveyor chain 20 in the curves 15 and 17 will be understood. The fastening link 23 of the odd rigid blade 501 leads the connection point 61 of its respective flexible cable 60 in the path of the conveyor chain 20. The fastening link 23 of the even rigid blade 502 follows the connection point 61 of its respective cable 60 in the path of the conveyor chain 20.

[0065] For odd-numbered blades, cables 60 relax as the connection points of cables 61 approach their links 23, such as when link 23 of odd-numbered blade 501 enters the downstream bend 15 of conveyor 10. As link 23 pulls odd-numbered blade 501 on the upstream straight line 13, odd-numbered blade 501 will be supported by its link 23 in its minimum resistance orientation and remains in this condition until it begins to transition around the upstream bend 17. At the upstream bend 17, as link 23 of odd-numbered blade 501 leads the connection point 61 of its cable 60 into the bend 17, cable 60 is still relaxed and link 23 pulls odd-numbered blade 501 until it passes beyond the vertical and swings towards the water flow. Fo. The water flow Fo then causes the odd-numbered blade 501 to oscillate in accordance with the direction of the flow. As link 23 moves to the downstream straight line 11, the distance between link 23 and connection point 61 of cable 60 increases. When both Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 41 / 66 32 / 46 link 23 as the connection point 61 are on the straight line 11 downstream, the water flow Fo will have brought the odd blade 501 to its orientation of maximum resistance.

[0066] For water flow Fo in the direction shown in Figure 13, the cables 60 of the paired blades 502-12 are always relaxed. When on the downswing oscillation line 11, the water flow Fo causes them to oscillate in accordance with the flow direction. When on the upswing line 13, they are at the idle angle 55 defined by their connections 23. This completes a cycle C for two blades 501 and 502 of the fixed-blade turbine 400 with water flow in one direction FO.

[0067] In Figure 14, the tidal flow FE is directed away from the main drive sprocket assembly 30. The six even-numbered blades 502-12 are articulated so that they rotate downstream in high-resistance orientations towards the main drive sprocket assembly 30 when they are in the downstream straight line 11. Their downstream oscillation is limited by their respective cables 60 to their maximum resistance orientation. Their upstream oscillation is in low-resistance orientations limited by their respective fastening links 23 to their minimum resistance orientation, unless they first make contact with their immediately forward odd-numbered blade 501-11.

[0068] At the conveyor displacement point shown in Figure 14, three even-numbered blades 5010-2 are in the maximum resistance orientation on the downstream line 11. The other three even-numbered blades 504-8 are in the minimum resistance orientation on the upstream line 13. At the same time, three odd-numbered blades 5011-3 are in line with the water flow Fo towards the minimum resistance orientation on the downstream line 11. The other three Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 42 / 66 33 / 46 odd-numbered blades 5O5-9 are falling towards the minimum resistance orientation on the upstream line 13, but two of them 5057 have contacted their immediately ahead even-numbered blades 506-8, limiting their oscillation before reaching the minimum resistance orientation.

[0069] Observing Figures 14 and 16, while both the fastening link 23 of the pair 502 blade and the connection point 61 of its respective flexible cable 60 are in the downstream straight line 11, the pair 502 blade is constrained by its cable 23 to the maximum high resistance orientation in the water flow FE. At the same time, the flexible cable 61 of the adjacent rear odd blade 501 is relaxed, allowing the adjacent rear odd blade 501 to oscillate in accordance with the direction of the water flow Fe.

[0070] Continuing to observe Figures 14 and 16, the cooperation of the fastening links 23, cables 60 and connection points 61 of the cables 60 to the conveyor chain 20 in the curves 15 and 17 will be understood. The fastening link 23 of the rigid even blade 502 leads the connection point 61 of its respective flexible cable 60 along the path of the conveyor chain 20. The fastening link 23 of the odd rigid blade 501 follows the connection point 61 of its respective flexible cable 60 along the path of the conveyor chain 20.

[0071] For even-numbered blades, cables 60 relax as the connection points of cables 61 approach their links 23, such as when link 23 of even-numbered blade 502 enters the downstream bend 15 of conveyor 10. As link 23 pulls even-numbered blade 502 on the upstream straight line 13, even-numbered blade 502 will be supported by its link 23 in its minimum resistance orientation and remains in this condition until it begins to transition around the upstream bend 17. On the bend a Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 43 / 66 34 / 46 upstream 17, as link 23 of blade pair 502 leads to connection point 61 of its cable 60 at bend 17, cable 60 is still relaxed and link 23 pulls blade pair 502 until it passes beyond the vertical and oscillates towards the water flow FE. The water flow FE causes blade pair 502 to oscillate in accordance with the flow direction. Once link 23 moves to the downstream straight line 11, the distance between link 23 and connection point 61 of cable 60 increases. When both link 23 and connection point 61 are on the downstream straight line 11, the water flow FE will have brought blade pair 502 to its maximum resistance orientation.

[0072] For water flow FE in the direction shown in Figure 14, the cables 60 of the odd-numbered blades 50i-ii are always relaxed. When on the downswing oscillation line 11, the water flow Fe causes them to oscillate in accordance with the flow direction. When on the upswing line 13, they are at the idle angle 55 defined by their connections 23. This completes a cycle C for two blades 501 and 502 of the fixed-blade turbine 400 with water flow in the direction Fe.

[0073] The bidirectional articulated blade turbine 400 of Figures 13-16 is intended to be operated with the upstream line 13 of the conveyor 10 generally parallel to the surface of the reverse tidal flows of water Fo or Fe. In either flow direction, some blades moving in the downstream line 11 will be fully extended downwards in the high-resistance orientation in the water flow Fo or Fe and all blades in the upstream line 13 will be in a low-resistance orientation collapsed at least partially out of the water.

[0074] In power generation operating mode, in either direction of flow F, the force applied by the flow a Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 44 / 66 The force applied by the downstream water flow F to the blades 50 in the high-resistance orientation is greater than the force applied by the downstream water flow F to the blades 50 in the low-resistance orientation. The force differential drives the blades 50 in the downstream straight line 11 and continuously propels the conveyor chains 20 to travel along the path of the endless conveyor.

[0075] In power generation operating mode, when the tide changes direction, conveyor 10 moves in the opposite direction. PTO shaft S still transfers power from turbine 400 to the power harvesting device (not shown). Buoyancy Control Annexes

[0076] Adjustable buoyancy facilitates towing or self-deployment of the turbine from shore to the site and also control of the depth at which the turbine operates, whether floating on the surface, resting on the bottom or at any intermediate depth. In addition, floating turbines rise and fall with the tide and can be maintained by the buoyancy control system at an elevation where the carrier structure components and additional components, such as drive motors, can be protected from constant immersion in the water and can be more easily maintained and replaced.

[0077] Looking now at Figures 17-22, the buoyancy of the turbine can be controlled using various configurations of buoyancy modules 70, such as one or more polyethylene tubes 71 or tanks 73 fixed to the turbine structure 40 by supports 75. Typically, water can be pumped into or evacuated from the buoyancy modules 70 to provide the desired buoyancy. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 45 / 66 36 / 46

[0078] As seen in Figure 17, the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 200 of Figures 7-12 is in a horizontal conveyor orientation and has a horizontal buoyancy control tank 73 that extends over the conveyor 10. The tank 73 is fixed to the frame 40 by supports 75 spacing the tank 73 above the blades 50 in the upstream line 13.

[0079] As seen in Figure 18, the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 200 of Figures 7-12 is in a horizontal conveyor orientation and has two sets of three vertically stacked buoyancy control tubes 71, one set fixed to each side of the structure 40 by supports 75 and extending along the length of the conveyor 10. As also seen in Figure 20, the ends of the tubes 71 can be multiple to allow the buoyancy alteration medium to be pumped or evacuated from each tube separately, providing precise adjustments of the turbine depth in the water.

[0080] As seen in Figures 19 and 20, the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 200 of Figures 7-11 is in a vertical conveyor orientation and has a set of seven horizontally side-by-side tubes 71 fixed to the upper surface of the structure 40 by supports 75 and extending above and through the turbine 200.

[0081] As seen in Figures 21 and 22, the bidirectional articulated blade turbine 400 of Figures 13-16 is in a vertical conveyor orientation and has seven tubes 71 in a horizontal side-by-side array connected to the structure 40 by supports 75.

[0082] Tubes 71, tanks 73 or combinations thereof Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 46 / 66 37 / 46 can be custom-arranged to create a level control system capable of containing a sufficient amount of buoyancy or ballast medium to level the turbine to a predetermined elevation in the water flow. Custom brackets 75 can be configured to connect the level control system to the turbine frame 40.

[0083] The desired medium can be pumped from an independent source (not shown). Ballast medium can be used to prevent the turbine from moving on the water or to allow the turbine to remain level when in operation, and heavy ballast medium can be used to sink the turbine to the seabed for operation when positioned on the support. Buoyancy medium can be used to keep key aspects of the turbine, such as external motors used in turbine deployment, out of the water, to allow turbine components to be installed, removed or replaced, to simplify turbine maintenance, and to cause the turbine to rise and fall with changing water levels due to tidal changes. Protective Covers

[0084] Continuing to observe Figures 21 and 22, the efficiency of any articulated blade turbine can be improved by adding a cover 65 to the structure 40 to protect the upstream blades 50 from direct attack by the downstream water flow F. The cover 65 can be used with horizontal and vertical conveyor shaft turbines. Fixed blade turbines can also be used in below-surface applications if a cover protects the fixed blades in the upstream line from direct attack by the water flow. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 47 / 66 38 / 46

[0085] In the example of Figures 21 and 22, cover 65 is used with a vertical conveyor shaft turbine with bidirectional articulated blades, such as turbine 400 illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, but in a horizontal conveyor shaft orientation. The use of cover 65 is especially significant in cooperation with horizontal or vertical bidirectional articulated blade turbines because its cables 60 are attached to alternating articulated blades 50 to oscillate in opposite directions. Cover 65 reduces the possibility that the cables 60, when in a relaxed condition, may become entangled. The use of cover 65 allows the use of bidirectional articulated blade turbines 400 at any water depth from the surface to the bottom. Legs

[0086] Observing Figures 4, 5, 7, 9-10, 12-14, 17-18 and 23-25, for horizontal conveyor turbines, two vertical legs 80 each have vertical members 81 that extend downwards from the side panels 45 of the internal structure modules 41 to the transverse base members 82. The vertical members 81 are long enough to support the turbine above the waterbed (not shown) when the transverse base members 82 rest on the waterbed. The legs 80 may be filled with ballast to assist in stabilizing a turbine resting on the waterbed, to prevent the turbine from moving over a water flow surface, to tend to level the turbine in the water flow, or to allow the turbine to remain operational in very shallow water.

[0087] Observing Figures 19-22, for turbines Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 48 / 66 39 / 46 vertical carriers, at least two, and as shown three, generally horizontal parallel legs 83 are spaced along the length of the turbine. Each leg 83 has a lower horizontal segment 84 that extends from the top of a vertical segment 85 resting on the waterbed (not shown). The lower horizontal segment 84 is attached to the lower inner side panel 45 of the structure 40. An upper horizontal segment 86 extends from the lower horizontal segment 84 below and beyond the width of the turbine to another vertical segment 87. The vertical segments 85 and 87 are long enough to support the turbine above the waterbed and the horizontal segment 86 is long enough to suspend (“cantilever”) the turbine from the lower horizontal segment 84. Eco-friendly lid

[0088] Although the turbine is discreet in its surface and subsurface operations, Figures 23 and 24 show, as an example, the unidirectional articulated blade turbine 200 of Figure 7 with an optional cover 90 attached to the frame 40. The cover 90 extends above the articulated blades 50 in the upstream straight line 13 from a point upstream of the downstream sprocket assembly 30 to a point downstream of the blade swing 50 entering the upstream curve 17 of the conveyor 10. The cover 90 shown is a flat sheet and gives the turbine the appearance of an island. Grass, shrubs, trees and other environmentally compatible adornments (not shown) can be added on top of the cover to make the turbine blend into its surroundings. Fairing with Increased Flow Rate

[0089] Going back to Figures 25 and 26, the bladed turbine Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 49 / 66 The unidirectional articulated 40 / 46 turbine 200 of Figure 7 has a flow-directing fairing 91 attached to the downstream end of the structure 40. The exemplary fairing 91 shown widens outward in an arched shape to direct a wider portion of the upstream water flow F towards the blades 50. The resulting increase in flow rate F through the blades 50 increases the turbine's power generation efficiency. Increased Flow Rate Channel

[0090] Looking now at Figures 27 and 28, the unidirectional hinged-blade turbine 200 of Figure 7 is mounted in a water flow confinement channel 93 that can be used at any depth from floating to the seabed. As water flows into the channel 93 towards the upstream faces of the blades 50, the water flow F escaping from the blade surface is not dissipated in the water body. Instead, the water flow to the sides of the blades 50 increases the flow rate and power generation efficiency of the turbine. Binding

[0091] Using turbine 200 from Figure 7 as an example and as seen in Figure 29, a turbine can be positioned in an appropriate direction in a water flow F by using multiple independently adjustable tie lines 94. The number of lines 94 depends on the waterway geography, the applied loads, and the nature of the current. When positioning the turbine in a river R as shown, the tie lines 94 can initially be adjusted independently to move the turbine from the riverbank to the center of the water flow F. Alternatively, as seen in Figure 30, turbine 200 can be positioned in an appropriate direction in the flow Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 50 / 66 41 / 46 of water F by the use of a single-point oscillating mooring line 94, as shown anchored 95 at its upstream end and tethered 97 at its downstream end to the upstream end of the turbine structure 40. Method for Implementing and Using Extended Conveyor Turbines

[0092] According to the invention, the energy of flowing water can be converted into electrical energy using an elongated endless conveyor with spaced blades.

[0093] Spaced blades extending outwards of suitable shape, size, and angle of attack to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy are attached to the elongated auger conveyor. The conveyor is aligned longitudinally in a water flow at an elevation where the blades, when extending upwards from the conveyor, are at least partially above a surface of the water flow. The conveyor is secured in the aligned orientation. The water flow is allowed to propel the blades extending downwards in the downstream direction to rotate the auger conveyor. If tied to a tidal or otherwise reverse water flow, bidirectional water flow can be harnessed.

[0094] Alternatively, a plurality of spaced blades of suitable shape, size, and angle of attack to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy are articulated at intervals to the elongated endless conveyor. The oscillation of the articulated blades is limited in the high and low resistance orientations in response to the downstream and upstream movement of the blades, respectively, relative to the water flow. The conveyor is aligned longitudinally. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 51 / 66 42 / 46 in the water flow. The articulated blades can be aligned at an elevation where they extend, when in a straight line upstream of the conveyor, at least partially above a surface of the water flow within the low-resistance orientations and, when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor, extend fully into the water flow within the high-resistance orientations. Alternatively, the articulated blades can be aligned at an elevation where they are fully in the water flow. The aligned conveyor is clamped in the aligned orientation. The water flow is allowed to propel the blades in the downstream flow of the conveyor to rotate the endless conveyor.

[0095] Alternatively, a plurality of spaced blades of suitable shape, size, and angle of attack to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy are articulated at intervals to the elongated endless conveyor. The alternating blades are articulated in opposite directions, so that the odd-numbered blades oscillate in one direction and the even-numbered blades oscillate in the opposite direction. In one direction of water flow, all even-numbered blades are in idle or low-resistance orientations, and in an opposite direction of water flow, all odd-numbered blades are in idle or low-resistance orientations. In one direction of water flow, the odd-numbered blades drive the conveyor, and in the opposite direction of water flow, the even-numbered blades drive the conveyor. Given the availability of blades in high-resistance orientations in either flow direction, the operation of the alternating blade arrangement is substantially as described in relation to the non-alternating blade arrangement.

[0096] According to the invention, the conveyor can be Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 52-66 43 / 46 deployed by towing, crawling, or using adjustable mooring lines. Crawling the conveyor to a selected water flow initially requires attaching conveyor blades of appropriate shape, size, and angle of attack to enable the conveyor to crawl from one location to another, and then powering the conveyor using an external power source. The blades can be replaced on the conveyor at any location at any time with other blades of appropriate shape, size, and angle of attack to deploy the conveyor or to enable the conveyor to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy. Using adjustable mooring lines to deploy the conveyor requires connecting a multipoint mooring system with independently adjustable mooring lines corresponding to a conveyor frame and adjusting the mooring lines to guide the conveyor to the intended location.The mooring line deployment method is especially useful for transporting the turbine from the shore to a unidirectional flow of water, such as a river, or a reverse flow of water, such as a tidal channel.

[0097] The blades can be fixed or articulated to the conveyor spaced at equal or varying intervals along the conveyor as may be suitable for efficiency in the deployment or energy conversion operating modes of the conveyor.

[0098] To align the conveyor at an elevation where the blades, when extending upwards from the conveyor, are at least partially above the surface of the water flow or to align the conveyor Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 53 / 66 44 / 46 at an elevation where the blades are fully in the water flow, a flotation medium or ballast medium is injected into a level control module attached to a conveyor structure to set the elevation, and the amount of injected medium is varied to alter the conveyor elevation in the water flow.

[0099] To secure the carrier, a multi-point mooring system with corresponding independently adjustable mooring lines can be attached to a carrier structure. By independently adjusting the mooring lines, the carrier can be secured in the water flow. If a mooring system is used for deployment, the same mooring system can be used to secure the carrier. Alternatively, a single-point oscillating mooring line can be attached to the carrier to keep the carrier in one direction of the tidal flow. Closing Remarks

[00100] A brake, such as an electronic brake built into the PTO (not shown) or a mechanical pen (not shown) operable to lock the sprockets, may be activated to prevent the conveyor from rotating when the stress of extreme water forces could damage the turbine, during routine maintenance, or when installing or removing blades or replacing the turbine's crawler blades with power-generating blades.

[00101] Multiple conveyors can be combined into a single turbine. Individual conveyors or groups can be selectively locked independently or unlocked for operation in specific applications. They Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 54 / 66 45 / 46 inch rotors can be configured to rotate in different directions and / or at different times, depending on the direction of the water flow. They can be fitted with blades of different sizes, shapes or angles of attack, or at different spacings, to accommodate changes in environmental and flow conditions.

[00102] Flow-directing fairings, such as those illustrated in Figures 25 and 26, can be used in combination with water flow confinement channels, such as those illustrated in Figures 27 and 28.

[00103] The elongated straight sections 11 and 13 of the conveyor 10 allow more than one blade 50 to be driven simultaneously in a water flow F in order to optimize the driven blade area. The increased blade area translates into operational efficiency even in lower velocity water flows.

[00104] The use of articulated blades that oscillate to a substantially minimum resistance orientation on the return or upstream straight section allows the elongated straight turbine to operate more efficiently than other devices. The use of two drive chains allows maximum torque to be generated and extracted, and energy can be exported from the turbine via a mooring chain, an electric cable, or a mechanical PTO system.

[00105] Because it targets water mass rather than water velocity, the elongated straight turbine is useful in a greater number of locations than other water-powered devices. Although shallow waters generally have a slower flow from tidal currents, a water depth of just one meter will allow the elongated straight turbine to generate Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 55 / 66 46 / 46 significantly more energy than known devices operating at the same depth. And the elongated straight turbine is especially effective in tidal areas that have a large volume of water passing through them at a moderate speed, rather than a moderate volume of water at a high speed.

[00106] The turbine can operate as a fully floating structure with little or no impact on the seabed. Floating debris will have no significant impact on the turbine because the debris will be able to pass through the device as it flows through the water. The turbine is friendly to fish and mammals and cavitation-free because it operates at the same speed as the water flow.

[00107] Thus, it is evident that, according to the invention, a water-powered turbine and a method of using the water-powered turbine have been provided that fully satisfy the objectives, purposes, and advantages set forth above. Although the invention has been described together with its specific embodiments, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art and in light of the preceding description. Thus, it is intended to encompass all alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit of the appended claims. Petition 870220096234, dated 10 / 19 / 2022, pp. 56 / 66

Claims

1 / 14 CLAIMS 1. Turbine for use in a water flow, the turbine characterized in that it comprises: an elongated endless conveyor with downstream and upstream straight lines; and blades spaced along, fixed and extending outward from said conveyor for downward extension of said downstream straight line, and upward extension of said upstream straight line outward from the water flow, and when in turbine deployment mode, wherein the plurality of blades in the downstream section are in contact with the ground, an external drive causes the conveyor to rotate, allowing the turbine to move from one location to another, when in turbine operation mode, wherein the plurality of blades in the downstream section are above the ground, the water flow causes the conveyor to rotate, generating energy for the turbine.

2. Turbine, according to claim 1, characterized in that each of said blades is independently interchangeable with a replacement blade having at least one of a different shape, size and angle of attack.

3. Turbine, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a multi-point system with corresponding independently adjustable mooring lines and a single-point oscillating mooring line.

4. Turbine, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises at least one module mounted on a turbine structure, the Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 20 / 48 2 / 14 referring to at least one module capable of containing a sufficient quantity of a flotation medium and a ballast medium to set the turbine level at a predetermined elevation in the water flow.

5. Turbine, according to claim 4, characterized in that the said quantity is variable to allow for alteration of the turbine elevation in the water flow.

6. Turbine, according to claim 5, characterized in that it further comprises at least one other module, said modules being multiples to allow independent variation of said quantity in each said module.

7. Turbine, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises ballast-filled legs.

8. Turbine for use in a water flow, characterized in that it comprises: an elongated endless conveyor with downstream and upstream straight lines; and blades spaced along and articulated to said conveyor to oscillate between high-resistance orientations when on said downstream straight line and low-resistance orientations when on said upstream straight line wherein, when in either of said high-resistance orientations, said blades are driven downstream by the water flow and cause said endless conveyor to move along said downstream and upstream straight lines, said conveyor in implementation mode being responsive to an external drive to cause the turbine to crawl from one location to another and, in operating mode, responds to the water flow to cause the turbine to generate energy.

9. Turbine, according to claim 8, characterized in that each of said blades is independently interchangeable with a replacement blade having at least one of a different shape, size and angle of attack.

10. Turbine, according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises a multi-point system with corresponding independently adjustable tie lines and a single-point oscillating tie line.

11. Turbine, according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises at least one module mounted on a turbine structure, said module being capable of containing a sufficient quantity of a flotation medium and a ballast medium to set the turbine level at a predetermined elevation in the water.

12. Turbine, according to claim 11, characterized in that said quantity is variable to allow for alteration of the turbine's elevation in the water.

13. Turbine, according to claim 12, characterized in that it further comprises at least one other module, said modules being multiples to allow independent variation of said quantity in each said module.

14. Turbine, according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises ballast legs that prevent the turbine from rotating on a surface of the water flow and tending to level the turbine in the water flow.

15. Turbine, according to claim 8, characterized in that it further comprises independent cables connected between the corresponding blades and the conveyor to prevent said corresponding blades from oscillating beyond a maximum high resistance orientation when they are on the downstream straight line.

16. Turbine, according to claim 8, characterized by the suit which further comprises a cover that protects said blades when in said upstream straight line from direct attack by the downstream water flow.

17. Turbine for use in reversing water flows, characterized in that it comprises: an elongated endless conveyor with opposing flows; blades spaced along and alternately articulated in a manner opposite to said conveyor for downward extension of a straight line referred downstream within, and upward extension of a straight line referred upstream outside of the reversible water flows, the alternately articulated blades referred odd oscillate in high-resistance orientations when in said downstream straight line during one direction of water flow, the alternately articulated blades referred even oscillate within high-resistance orientations when in said downstream flow during the opposite direction of water flow, and all said alternately articulated blades oscillate within a low-resistance orientation when in an upstream straight line during both Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p.23 / 48 5 / 14 directions of water flow; and a mooring line system keeping said conveyor aligned within the reversible water flows with said blades extending out of the water flow when on said upstream straight line; wherein, during the reverse water flows, the alternating blades on said downstream straight line are in a high resistance orientation and cause the conveyor to be driven continuously during water flow in either direction.

18. Turbine, according to claim 17, characterized in that said conveyor is in a deployment mode responsive to an external drive to cause the turbine to crawl from one location to another and an operating mode responsive to reverse water flows to cause the turbine to generate energy.

19. Turbine, according to claim 17, characterized in that said conveyor moves around one of the horizontal and vertical axes.

20. Turbine, according to claim 19, characterized in that it further comprises a cover that protects said blades in said upstream line from direct attack by the downstream water flow.

21. Turbine for use in reversing water flows, characterized by the fact that it comprises: an elongated endless conveyor with opposing flow lines; blades spaced along and alternately articulated in a manner opposite to said conveyor, the alternately articulated blades referred to as odd-numbered oscillating within Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page.24 / 48 6 / 14 of high resistance orientations when on a downstream straight line in one direction of a water flow, the alternately articulated blades said pairs oscillate within high resistance orientations when on said downstream straight line in the opposite direction to the water flow, and all said alternately articulated blades oscillate within low resistance orientations when on an upstream straight line in both directions of the water flow; a mooring line system that keeps said conveyor aligned within reversible water flows with said blades fully in the water flow on said opposite flow straight lines; and wherein, during water flow in either direction, the alternating blades on said downstream straight line are in a high resistance orientation and cause the conveyor to be driven continuously during water flow in either direction.

22. Turbine, according to claim 21, characterized in that said conveyor is in one of an deployment mode responsive to an external drive to cause the turbine to crawl from one location to another and an operating mode responsive to reverse water flows to cause the turbine to generate energy.

23. Turbine, according to claim 21, characterized in that said endless conveyor moves around one of the horizontal and vertical axes.

24. Energy conversion method, characterized by the fact that it comprises the steps of: attaching to an elongated endless conveyor blades with the shape, Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p.25 / 48 7 / 14 size and angle of attack suitable to make the conveyor move from one location to another; drive the conveyor by means of an external power source to make it move from one location to another; replace the blades with others of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to make the conveyor move by spaced blades of suitable shape, size and angle to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy; align the conveyor longitudinally in a water flow at an elevation in which the blades extending upwards from the conveyor are at least partially above and the blades extending downwards from the conveyor are below a surface of the water flow; fix the conveyor in the aligned orientation; and allow the water flow to propel the blades extending below the downstream conveyor to rotate the conveyor.

25. Method according to claim 24, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step comprises the substeps of: injecting a flotation medium and a ballast medium into a level control module fixed to a conveyor structure; and varying the amount of flotation medium and ballast medium injected to alter the conveyor elevation in the water flow.

26. Method, according to claim 24, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching to a conveyor structure at least two independently adjustable tie lines to position the conveyor in the water flow.

27. Method according to claim 26, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the independent adjustment step of the mooring lines to transport the conveyor from the shore to the water flow.

28. Method according to claim 24, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching to a conveyor structure a single-point oscillating mooring line adapted to keep the conveyor in one direction of the tidal flow.

29. Energy conversion method, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: articulating at intervals to an elongated endless conveyor blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to move the conveyor from one location to another; actuating the conveyor by means of an external energy source to move it from one location to another; replacing the blades with suitable shape, size and angle of attack to move the conveyor by spaced blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy, the blades being limited to oscillating within high and low resistance orientations; aligning the conveyor longitudinally in a water flow at an elevation at which the suitable articulated blades Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, p.27 / 48 9 / 14 to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy, when in a straight line upstream of the conveyor, extend at least partially above a surface of the water flow within the low resistance orientations and, when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor, extend fully into the water flow within the high resistance orientations; fix the conveyor in the aligned orientation; and allow the water flow to drive the appropriate blades to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy in the downstream flow of the conveyor to rotate the conveyor.

30. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step includes the substeps of: injecting a flotation medium and a ballast medium into a level control module fixed to a conveyor structure; and varying the amount of flotation medium and ballast medium injected to alter the conveyor elevation in the water flow.

31. Method, according to claim 29, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching to a conveyor structure at least two independently adjustable tie lines adapted to position the conveyor in the water flow.

32. Method, according to claim 31, characterized in that the fastening step is followed by the step of independently adjusting the mooring lines to transport the shore carrier into the water flow.

33. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching to a conveyor structure a single-point oscillating mooring line adapted to keep the conveyor in one direction of the tidal flow.

34. Energy conversion method, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: articulating at intervals to an elongated endless conveyor blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to convert the energy of the water flow into electrical energy, the blades being limited to oscillating between a maximum resistance orientation and a minimum resistance orientation; aligning the conveyor longitudinally in a water flow at an elevation where the articulated blades are below a surface of the water flow when in straight lines upstream and downstream of the conveyor and within the high resistance orientations when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor and within the low resistance orientations when in the straight line upstream; fixing the conveyor in the aligned orientation; and allowing the water flow to propel the blades in the straight line downstream of the conveyor to rotate the endless conveyor.

35. Method, according to claim 34, characterized in that it is preceded by the steps of: articulating the conveyor blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to cause the conveyor to crawl from one location to another; activating an external power source to drive the conveyor to the other location; and disarticulating the conveyor blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to cause the conveyor to crawl from one location to another.

36. Method according to claim 34, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching to a conveyor structure at least two independently adjustable tie lines adapted to position the conveyor in the water flow.

37. Method according to claim 36, characterized in that the fastening step is followed by the step of independently adjusting the mooring lines to transport the carrier from the shore to the water flow.

38. Method according to claim 34, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching to a conveyor structure a single-point oscillating mooring line adapted to keep the conveyor in one direction of the tidal flow.

39. Method according to claim 34, characterized in that the fixing step is preceded by the step of adjusting the elevation of the conveyor in the water flow.

40. Method according to claim 39, characterized in that the adjustment step comprises Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 30 / 48 12 / 14 the substeps of: injecting a flotation medium and a ballast medium into a level control compartment fixed to a conveyor structure; and varying the amount of flotation medium and ballast medium injected to alter the conveyor elevation in the water flow.

41. Energy conversion method, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: attaching to an elongated endless conveyor blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to convert the energy of the reverse water flow into electrical energy, the alternating blades being limited to oscillating in opposite directions within high and low resistance orientations, the odd-numbered blades oscillating within high resistance orientations when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor, the even-numbered blades oscillating within high resistance orientations when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor and all blades oscillating within low resistance orientations in the straight line upstream of the conveyor;align the conveyor longitudinally in a reverse flow of water at an elevation where the articulated blades, when in a straight line upstream of the conveyor, extend at least partially above a surface of the water flow and, when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor, extend fully into the water flow; fix the aligned conveyor in the aligned orientation; and allow the flow in one reverse flow direction to propel the odd-numbered blades in the downstream straight line and cause the conveyor to generate energy, and in the opposite reverse flow direction to propel the even-numbered blades in the downstream straight line and cause the conveyor to generate energy.

42. Method according to claim 41, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching at least two adjustable tie lines to a conveyor structure, one at each end of the conveyor, and followed by the step of independently adjusting the tie lines to position the conveyor in the reverse flow path.

43. Energy conversion method, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: attaching to an elongated endless conveyor blades of suitable shape, size and angle of attack to convert the energy of the reverse water flow into electrical energy, alternating blades being limited to oscillating in opposite directions within high and low resistance orientations, the odd-numbered blades oscillating within high resistance orientations when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor, the even-numbered blades oscillating within high resistance orientations when in a straight line downstream of the conveyor and all blades oscillating within low resistance orientations in the straight line upstream of the conveyor, the blades in the upstream straight lines being protected from direct attack by the downstream water flow; aligning the conveyor longitudinally in a reverse water flow at an elevation wherein said blades are fully in the water flow in said opposite flow lines;Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, page 32 / 48 14 / 14 fix the conveyor in the aligned orientation; and allow the flow in one direction of reverse flow to propel the odd-numbered blades on the downstream straight line and cause the conveyor to generate energy, and in the opposite direction of reverse flow to propel the even-numbered blades on the downstream straight line and cause the conveyor to generate energy.

44. Method, according to claim 43, characterized in that the conveyor alignment step is preceded by the step of attaching at least two adjustable tie lines to a conveyor structure, one at each end of the conveyor, and followed by the step of independently adjusting the tie lines to position the conveyor in the reverse flow path. Petition 870260002797, dated 12 / 01 / 2026, pp. 33 / 48

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