Hydroelectric power generation energy collecting device

Abstract

A hydroelectric energy harvesting device (100) is described herein. The apparatus comprises: a support (102); a sliding frame (114) movably coupled to the support (102); the floater unit (104) floats on a water body (106), and the water body (106) has a movable water level; an energy generating mechanism (108); and a float rocker arm (110) coupled to the float unit (104) and the energy generating mechanism (108). The float rocker arm (110) pivots about a pivot point (112) on the slide frame (114). The float unit (104) moves with the water level of the body of water (106) to drive the float rocker arm (110) to provide power input to the energy generating mechanism (108). The sliding frame (114) is used to adjust the level of the pivot point (112), the float rocker arm (110), and the float unit (104).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydroelectric energy collection device and a method for using the device, wherein the device collects energy generated by the movement of a body of water (such as a sea or ocean) provided by tides and weather systems. Background Art

[0002] Renewable technologies and infrastructure have seen significant growth and investment in recent years. This rapid expansion reflects the increasing urgency of decarbonizing our civilization, given the challenges humanity faces if anthropogenic climate change continues on its current trajectory. Currently, global electricity demand is growing faster than the current supply of renewable energy. This shortage increases the likelihood of using non-renewable energy sources, such as fossil fuels, further increasing carbon emissions.

[0003] Wind, solar, and hydropower are already widely used worldwide. In the second quarter of 2022, a staggering 38.6% of the UK's electricity needs were met by renewable energy. Despite the continued expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, the UK has relatively little implementation of ocean power generation, despite having over 31,000 kilometers of coastline.

[0004] Some examples of floating drive power generation systems generate electricity by converting energy generated by water motion, such as that provided by tidal and weather systems and the resulting environmental fluctuations. However, these systems lack flexibility in terms of the adjustability of the float units, for example, based on water or tidal conditions. Furthermore, these systems cannot adapt to varying conditions in the water bodies they are used in. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one example, a hydroelectric energy harvesting device is provided, comprising: a support member; a sliding frame movably coupled to the support member; a float unit configured to float on a body of water having a movable water level; an energy generating mechanism; and a float rocker arm coupled to the float unit and the energy driving mechanism. The float rocker arm is configured to pivot about a pivot point on the sliding frame. The float unit is configured to move as the water level of the body of water moves, driving the float rocker arm to provide work input to the energy generating mechanism. The sliding frame is configured to adjust the level of the pivot point, the float rocker arm, and the float unit. This arrangement provides a simple configuration capable of extracting energy from a body of water. This arrangement captures the natural movement of the body of water.

[0006] Vertical movement of the float rocker arm and the float unit is provided by a sliding frame coupled to the support. The sliding frame is configured to adjust the vertical position of the float rocker arm and associated float unit along the length of the support. Advantageously, the vertical position of the float unit and rocker arm can be adjusted in response to the average or mean water level of the body of water based on tidal movement.

[0007] The device may include a storm support and a storm cover. The float unit may be moved on the skid frame to a parked position, away from the water, in an inactive state. In this position, the float unit may be supported by the storm support and protected by the storm cover. The storm support and storm cover provide support and protection for the float unit, which may be useful during severe weather conditions such as storms.

[0008] The float rocker arm can be extendable. The extendable float rocker arm can be configured to extend or retract to adjust the lever arm of the float unit from the pivot. Advantageously, the position of the float unit can be adjusted horizontally to adjust the amount of energy transferred from the water body to the energy generation mechanism. This can allow for levered energy transfer based on the intensity of the water's fluctuations. The amount of extension can be adjusted to maintain a steady or constant energy input to the energy generation mechanism.

[0009] The float unit may be a volume adjustable float unit, wherein increasing or decreasing the volume of the float changes the buoyancy of the float unit. By changing the buoyancy of the float unit, the force transmitted by the float unit to the energy generating mechanism via the float rocker arm can be adjusted in response to the conditions of the water body.

[0010] The apparatus may also include a controller configured to adjust the level of the float unit and the extension of the lever arm in response to tidal conditions of the body of water. This arrangement can automatically adjust the vertical and horizontal position of the float arm and the float unit in response to the water level and conditions of the body of water. The controller can be configured to receive updates related to tidal and local conditions and automatically make adjustments.

[0011] An energy-generating mechanism can be configured to transfer water from a body of water to a higher level, where the flow of water from the higher level to the lower level generates a fluid flow. By transferring water from the body of water to the higher level, the gravitational potential energy of the volume or mass of the transferred water increases. This additional potential energy and the subsequent fluid flow can be harnessed to provide useful work input. For example, the fluid flow can be used to drive a turbine to generate electricity. The fluid flow can also be used to drive other useful mechanisms.

[0012] The apparatus may also include a hydroelectric generator configured to extract energy from the fluid flow to generate electricity. Water diverted from the body of water to a higher level can flow through the hydroelectric generator, providing useful work input to generate electricity. The generated electricity can be used locally or transferred to the national grid.

[0013] The higher water level can be a reservoir configured to store water delivered by the energy generating mechanism. By storing water in the reservoir at the higher water level, it can be stored and released later to provide on-demand power generation. This on-demand power generation method can help increase baseload power generation or add capacity during peak usage periods, thereby helping to reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

[0014] The reservoir may include at least one water level sensor to measure the amount of water stored in the reservoir. By monitoring the amount of water stored in the reservoir, the potential power generation can be calculated based on the amount of water stored. Monitoring the water level in the reservoir also allows for leak detection.

[0015] The reservoir may include a valve configured to provide control over the flow of fluid. The valve may be used to control the flow of water out of the reservoir. This in turn may provide control over the amount of electricity generated.

[0016] The energy generating mechanism may be at least one of the following: a bellows type pump; a single-acting cylinder pump; a double-acting cylinder pump; a single-acting peristaltic pump; a double-acting peristaltic pump; a direct drive pump; a direct mechanical drive pump. A direct mechanical drive pump may utilize at least one of a belt and pulley, a sprocket and chain, a rack and pinion, or a piston drive. The specific type of pump may be selected based on the conditions of the water body and the amount of water pumped in a single stroke. In some examples, a variety of pump types and sizes may be used to accommodate a range of conditions. A combination of double-acting and single-acting pumps may be used to meet a range of conditions and requirements. In one example, a bellows type pump may be used as this will be designed to withstand repeated use.

[0017] The device may include a shock absorber. The float unit may be coupled to the float rocker arm via the shock absorber. The shock absorber may provide a damping effect on the forces acting on the float unit, thereby reducing stress on various connections and joints within the device, thereby reducing the likelihood of component damage.

[0018] In one example, a method for harvesting energy from a body of water using the device is provided. The method includes the following steps: transferring energy from the body of water to an energy generating mechanism; using the energy generated by the energy generating mechanism to move water from the body of water to a higher level; utilizing the movement of water from the higher level to the lower level to generate a fluid flow; and utilizing the fluid flow to drive a hydroelectric generator to generate electricity. This method provides a simple way to extract energy from a body of water and convert it into useful work.

[0019] In one example, there is a hydroelectric power collection system configured to transfer motion of a body of water to drive an energy generating mechanism by using a float and a float rocker.

[0020] In one example, a height-adjustable float device is provided. The float device includes a support member and a sliding frame movably coupled to the support member. The float device includes one or more float units configured to float on a body of water and connected to the support member via a rocker arm at a pivot. The height of the pivot can be adjusted based on the average height of the body of water.

[0021] Any of the above features can be combined in various combinations. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Features of the examples of the present disclosure will become apparent by reference to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals correspond to similar, but possibly different, parts. For the sake of brevity, reference numerals or features having a previously described function may or may not be described in conjunction with other drawings in which they appear. Reference numerals incremented by 100 denote identical parts, and for the sake of clarity, these numerals may be used interchangeably to denote identical parts.

[0023] Figure 1 A side view of a hydroelectric energy harvesting device is shown;

[0024] Figure 2 A side view of one embodiment of a hydroelectric energy harvesting device is shown with the slide frame, float rocker arm, and float unit in a position suitable for low tide;

[0025] Figure 3 A side view of one embodiment of a hydroelectric energy harvesting device is shown with the slide frame, float rocker arm, and float unit in position for high tide water levels;

[0026] Figure 4 A side view of one embodiment of a hydroelectric energy harvesting device is shown with the float unit in an inactive (dormant) state;

[0027] Figure 5 A side view of one embodiment of a float unit, float rocker arm, and energy generation mechanism arrangement of a hydroelectric energy collection device is shown, wherein the float rocker arm is in a retracted state;

[0028] Figure 6 A side view of one embodiment of a float unit, float rocker, and energy generating mechanism arrangement of a hydroelectric energy harvesting device is shown, wherein the float rocker is in an extended or partially extended state;

[0029] Figure 7 A side view of one embodiment of a float unit, float rocker, and energy generating mechanism arrangement of a hydroelectric energy harvesting device is shown, wherein the float rocker arm, energy generating mechanism arm, and energy generating mechanism support are in an extended or partially extended state; and

[0030] Figure 8 A flow chart is shown containing the steps of a method for generating hydroelectric power using the apparatus described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Hereinafter, various examples will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The examples described below can be modified and implemented in various different forms. In order to more clearly describe the features of the examples, detailed descriptions of matters well known to those skilled in the art of the following examples will be omitted.

[0032] In the present disclosure, when an element is described as being “connected” or “coupled” to another element, this includes not only being “directly connected” or “directly coupled” but also being “connected with another element therebetween” or “coupled with another element therebetween.” In addition, when an element is described as “comprising” another element, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, the element may further include other elements, without excluding other elements.

[0033] Figure 1 One embodiment of a hydroelectric energy harvesting device 100 is shown. Figures 2 to 4 The apparatus 100 includes a support member 102. The support member 102 may include a plurality of support elements. The support member 102 may be in the form of at least one support leg. The support member 102 may serve as a structure to which other components of the apparatus 100 described herein may be attached, coupled, or connected.

[0034] The support 102 may be anchored to a substantially submerged surface, such as the sea floor 116, a lake floor, etc. Figure 2 As shown, the support member 102 may be anchored into a foundation 218 that is located on or embedded in a substantially submerged surface (eg, the seabed 116 ).

[0035] like Figure 1 As shown, the device 100 further includes a sliding frame 114. The sliding frame 114 is movably coupled to the support 102. The sliding frame 114 can achieve this by being configured to move up and down along the support 102 in a substantially vertical path. The movement of the sliding frame 114 along the support 102 can be driven by the motor unit 244, as shown in FIG. Figure 2As shown. The motor unit 244 can operate the winch system 246 to adjust the vertical position of the sliding frame 214 along the support 202. The winch system 246 can be a chain and sprocket type winch system, etc. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the winch system 246 can use alternative mechanisms to achieve a substantially similar effect (e.g., a cable winch system, a ratchet winch system, etc.). The movement of the sliding frame 114 can be continuous, for example, the sliding frame 114 can be moved according to an annual tide calendar. In one example, the sliding frame 114 is moved to a position based on the average water level or water level mean of the water body 106 at a given time. For example, the average water level of the water body 106 may be 10m, but waves can cause the water level to vary between 9.5m and 10.5m (note that these numbers are purely for illustrative purposes and are not limiting). In this case, the position of the sliding frame 214 is based on the average water level. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The sliding frame and associated components are shown in a low tide 220 position and a high tide 222 position, respectively.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, apparatus 100 further includes a float unit 104 configured to float on a body of water 106 having a movable water level. In this case, the movable water level of body of water 106 may be the result of wave action. In other words, float unit 104 moves due to its buoyancy on the water surface. The extent of wave action will depend on weather conditions such as wind speed, temperature, and storm activity. Wave action is configured to change the water level from the average water level of the body of water.

[0037] In another example, the float unit 104 can be a volume-adjustable float unit. In this example, the volume and / or surface area of ​​the float unit 104 can be increased or decreased to provide a subsequent increase or decrease in the buoyancy of the body of water 106 acting on the float unit 104. The float unit 104 can include at least two movable parts, and the at least two movable parts are configured to increase or decrease the volume of the float unit 104. The at least two parts of the float unit 104 can be actuated using a hydraulic mechanism. In one example, the at least two movable parts can be folded or retracted relative to each other, so that one movable part can be accommodated within the other movable part. Those skilled in the art will understand that alternative mechanisms can be used to provide substantially similar results. This arrangement can provide flexibility in the amount of energy that can be utilized from the wave action of the body of water 106. Figure 2As shown, the average water level may vary between the tidal range between high tide 222 and low tide 220. Low tide 220 may be when the average water level of body of water 206 is at its lowest point. High tide 222 may be when the average water level of body of water 206 is at its highest point. Water levels may rise and fall due to wave or tidal action. It will be appreciated that the tidal range depends on the geographic location of device 100, lunar cycles, and the like.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the device 100 also includes an energy generating mechanism 108. The energy generating mechanism 108 can be coupled to the support member 102. The energy generating mechanism 108 can be coupled to the support member 102 via a sliding frame 114. The energy generating mechanism 108 can move in a substantially vertical direction along with the float rocker arm 110 while maintaining a connection to the float rocker arm 100. The energy generating mechanism 108 can be coupled to the sliding frame 114 via the float rocker arm 110 (described in more detail below). The energy generating mechanism 108 can also be coupled to the sliding frame 114 via at least one support arm 262.

[0039] Energy generating mechanism 108 can be a pump. Energy generating mechanism 108 can be configured to pump water obtained from body of water 106. Energy generating mechanism 108 can be one or more of the following: a bellows pump; a single-acting piston / cylinder pump; a double-acting piston / cylinder pump; a single-acting peristaltic pump; a double-acting peristaltic pump; a direct drive pump; a direct mechanical drive pump, etc. A direct mechanical drive pump can utilize at least one of a belt and pulley, a sprocket and chain, a rack and pinion, or a piston drive arrangement. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various other mechanisms can be used to produce similar effects. Device 100 can also include multiple energy generating mechanisms 108 to increase the amount of water pumped per stroke.

[0040] As described above, the device 100 also includes a float rocker arm 110 that is coupled to the float unit 104 and the energy generating mechanism 108, such as Figure 1 In other words, the float rocker arm 110 has a first end and a second end, and is configured to be coupled to the float unit 104 at the first end and to the energy generating mechanism 108 at the second end.

[0041] The float rocker arm 110 is configured to pivot about a pivot point 112 located on a slide frame 114, as shown in FIG. Figure 1As shown, float rocker arm 110 can be coupled to pivot point 112 at a location between the first and second ends of float rocker arm 110. This arrangement allows the level of float rocker arm 110 and float unit 104 to be raised and lowered by moving slide frame 114 up or down on support 102. Such adjustments can be applied in response to changes in tidal conditions of body of water 106. These adjustments can also be made in response to adverse weather conditions, such as stormy weather or strong winds, which can cause the water level of the body of water to change significantly due to wave action.

[0042] The device 100 may include one or more sub-float rocker arms 110 coupled to an equal number of energy generating mechanisms 108 to increase the amount of water pumped per stroke. Alternatively, a single float rocker arm 110 may be configured to provide multiple work inputs to at least one energy generating mechanism 108.

[0043] The device 100 may include a gear mechanism (not shown). The gear mechanism may be disposed between the float rocker arm 110 and the energy generating mechanism 108. The gear mechanism may be configured to provide a mechanical advantage to the work input provided by the float rocker arm 110, thereby providing increased work input to the energy generating mechanism 108.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, the device 200 may further include a shock absorber 228. The shock absorber 228 may couple the buoy unit 204 to the buoy rocker arm 210. The shock absorber 228 may be configured to reduce stress on the buoy unit 204 and the buoy rocker arm 210 by damping the impact of wave motion. Figure 2 As further shown, the float unit can also be coupled to the float rocker arm 210 via a float unit pivot 224. The float unit pivot 224 can be configured to allow the float unit 204 to oscillate when interacting with the body of water 206. The float unit pivot 224 can further improve the damping effect provided by the shock absorber 228. The shock absorber 228 can use hydraulic pressure, springs, or an equivalent damping mechanism.

[0045] As described above, float unit 104 is configured to move as the water level of body of water 106 moves. The movement of float unit 104 and float rocker arm 110 can be driven primarily by the wave action of body of water 106. This movement drives float rocker arm 110 to provide work input to energy generating mechanism 108. The water level of body of water 106 can also move due to tidal changes, which can affect the degree of movement of float unit 104 and rocker arm 110.

[0046] like Figure 2 、 36, the float rocker arm 210 can be an extendable float rocker arm that is configured to extend or retract to adjust the lever arm 260 of the float unit 204 from the pivot point 212. The float rocker arm 210 can include a first extension portion 258 that is configured to extend from a first end of the float rocker arm 210. For example, the float rocker arm 210 can be telescopic to allow it to be moved from a fully retracted position ( Figure 5 ) extends to a partially or fully extended position ( Figure 6 The first extension portion 258 of the float rocker arm 204 can be configured to extend or retract at a first end to adjust a lever arm 260 extending from the pivot point 212 to the float unit 204. Extension or retraction of the first extension portion 258 of the float rocker arm 210 can increase or decrease the mechanical leverage provided by the lever arm 260. Extension or retraction of the first extension portion 258 of the float rocker arm 210 can be applied in response to different wave conditions in the body of water 206. In one example, when the wave size is small, the first extension portion 258 of the float rocker arm 210 can be extended to increase the mechanical leverage provided, thereby resulting in a corresponding increase in the work input provided to the energy generating mechanism 208. In another example, when the wave size is large, the first extension portion 258 can be retracted to decrease the mechanical leverage provided, thereby resulting in a corresponding decrease in the work input provided to the energy generating mechanism 208. Adjusting the length of lever arm 260 by extending or retracting first extension portion 258 may be used to provide a more consistent work input to energy generating mechanism 208 regardless of the conditions of body of water 206 .

[0047] Energy generating mechanism 108 is configured to receive work input from float rocker arm 110 during use. Energy generating mechanism 108 can be configured to transport water from body of water 106 to a higher level. Water can be allowed to flow from the higher level to the lower level, thereby generating a fluid flow. The fluid flow can be utilized to provide useful work input.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the device 200 may further include a hydroelectric generator 230. The hydroelectric generator 230 may be configured to extract kinetic energy from the fluid flow to generate electricity. The hydroelectric generator 230 may be a turbine. The device 200 may include multiple hydroelectric generators 230 to increase its power generation capacity.

[0049] like Figure 2 As further shown, the apparatus 200 may also include a reservoir 232 configured to store water. The reservoir 232 may be located at a higher water level. In other words, the reservoir may be at a higher water level where water can be delivered. The energy generating mechanism 108 may deliver water to the reservoir 232 located at the higher water level.

[0050] like Figure 2As further shown, reservoir 232 may include at least one water level sensor 234 configured to measure the water level within the reservoir. At least one water level sensor 234 may be a high water level sensor. At least one water level sensor 234 may be a low water level sensor. The water level data may be used to calculate the amount of water stored in reservoir 232. The water level data may be used to determine the amount of electricity that can be generated using the amount of water stored in reservoir 232.

[0051] like Figure 2 As further shown, reservoir 232 can include at least one valve 236. The at least one valve 236 can be configured to provide control over the flow of water from a higher water level in reservoir 232 to a lower water level. The lower water level can be body of water 106. The at least one valve 236 can be a solenoid-actuated valve; however, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other valves can be used to achieve substantially similar results. Water can be delivered from reservoir 232 to hydroelectric generator 230 via at least one reservoir outlet pipe 237. The water can pass through a reservoir filter 238, which is configured to filter the water flowing from the higher water level or reservoir 232 to hydroelectric generator 230. The at least one valve 236 can be actuated to release the water, thereby providing power generation on demand.

[0052] Reservoir 232 can be located at a higher elevation than hydroelectric generator 230. Water flow from a higher water level or reservoir 232 to a lower water level (e.g., body of water 106) can be routed through hydroelectric generator 230 to provide work input for power generation. Water passing through hydroelectric generator 230 can be transported to the lower water level or body of water 106 via hydroelectric generator outlet pipe 240.

[0053] like Figure 2 As shown, the reservoir 232 may also include an overflow tube 242 that is configured to convey excess water from the reservoir 232 back to the body of water 106 if the amount of water within the reservoir 232 reaches a level above the top of the overflow tube 242. The height of the overflow tube 242 within the reservoir may be adjustable to vary the threshold water level required before water can flow through the overflow tube 242.

[0054] like Figure 2 As shown, the device 100 may further include an output tube 248 and a delivery tube 250, both of which are configured to provide fluid communication between the energy generating mechanism 108 and the upper water level or reservoir 232. The output tube 248 may be a flexible output tube 248. The device may further include a guide wheel 252 and a tensioner weight 254, both of which are configured to adjust the movement of the flexible output tube 248 by allowing the flexible output tube 248 to automatically adjust in response to the movement of the energy generating mechanism 108 on the sliding frame 114.

[0055] like Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the device 200 may also include a storm cover 256 and a storm support 264. The float rocker arm 210 may also include a float rocker arm hinge 266 configured to allow the float rocker arm to fold, allowing the float unit 204 to be positioned behind the storm cover 256. The storm support 264 may be coupled to the float rocker arm 210 and configured to support the float unit 204 when the float rocker arm 210 is in the folded configuration. The storm cover 256 may be configured to protect the float unit 204 from adverse weather conditions (e.g., storms and / or high winds) when the float unit 204 is in an inactive state. The float rocker arm 210 may be fully retracted when the float unit is in the inactive state; the sliding frame 214 may be raised to its highest position on the support member 202, into a parked position; the float rocker arm 210 may be folded using the float rocker arm hinge 266; and the float unit 204 may be supported by the storm support 264. This arrangement is like Figure 4 As shown, the storm cover 256 is configured to provide protection for the float unit 204 from multiple directions, including from above and at least one side. The storm cover 256 can also be configured to provide protection for the float unit 204 from each side and from the rear.

[0056] As described above, the float rocker arm 210 may include a first extension portion 258 at a first end. The float rocker arm 210 may also include a second extension portion 268 at a second end.

[0057] like Figure 7 As shown, the second extension arm 268 can be telescopic to allow it to be extended from or retracted into the float rocker arm 210, but other examples are also contemplated. The energy generating mechanism 208 can be coupled to the slide frame via the second extension arm 268 of the float rocker arm 210. The energy generating mechanism 208 can also be coupled to the slide frame 214 via the support arm 262. The support arm 262 can also include an extendable support arm portion 270. The extendable support arm portion 270 can be telescopic to allow it to be extended from or retracted into the support arm 262.

[0058] Figure 5 Shown is the float rocker arm 210 in a retracted state with the first extension 258 telescopically retracted into the float rocker arm 210 and the lever arm 260 at its shortest length. In this arrangement, the support arm 262 may also be in a retracted state.

[0059] Figure 6The float rocker arm 210 is shown in an extended state, wherein the first extension portion 258 is partially or completely extended from within the float rocker arm 210. Extension of the first extension portion 258 may increase the length of the lever arm 260. By increasing the length of the lever arm 260, the mechanical leverage provided by the float rocker arm 210 can be increased, thereby increasing the force applied to the energy generating mechanism 208.

[0060] Figure 7 Float rocker arm 210 is shown in an extended position, with first extension portion 258 partially or fully extended from within float rocker arm 210. In this arrangement, second extension portion 268 also partially or fully extends from within float rocker arm 210. In this arrangement, support extension portion 270 also partially or fully extends from within support arm 262. Second extension portion 268 and support extension portion 270 can extend when first extension portion 258 is in the extended position to adjust the horizontal position of energy generating mechanism 208, thereby providing a counterbalance to the weight of float unit 204.

[0061] The apparatus 100 may further include a controller (not shown). The controller may be configured to control the sliding frame 114 to adjust the level of the float unit 104. Movement of the sliding frame 114 adjusts the pivot point 112, which in turn causes movement of other associated components (i.e., the float unit 104, the float rocker arm 110, and the energy generating mechanism 108). The controller may be configured to continuously adjust the level of the sliding frame 104 and associated components by changing the vertical position of the sliding frame 114. The controller may be configured to make such adjustments in response to tidal conditions of the body of water 106 based on local weather information (e.g., stormy weather or strong winds).

[0062] The controller can also be configured to adjust the extension or retraction of first extension portion 258, thereby changing the length of lever arm 260. The controller can also be configured to adjust the extension or retraction of second extension portion 268 and support extension portion 270. The controller can be configured to make the adjustments in response to the tidal conditions of body of water 206 according to an annual tidal schedule. The controller can be configured to make the adjustments in response to the tidal conditions of body of water 206 based on local weather information (e.g., stormy weather or strong winds). The controller can be configured to obtain other environmental or water level information about body of water 206 from other sources (e.g., sensors external to device 200).

[0063] The controller can also be configured to adjust the volume of the adjustable-volume float unit 104. The controller can be configured to make such adjustments in response to tidal conditions of the body of water 106 according to an annual tidal schedule. The controller can be configured to make such adjustments in response to local weather conditions (e.g., storms or high winds). The controller can be configured to receive the latest local weather and tidal data.

[0064] The controller may be configured to receive water level data from at least one water level sensor 234. The controller may be configured to use the water level data to calculate the amount of water stored in the reservoir 232. The controller may also be configured to use the water level data to determine the amount of electricity that can be generated using the amount of water stored in the reservoir 232.

[0065] The controller may also be configured to control the at least one valve 236 to allow a predetermined volume of water to exit the reservoir 232 .

[0066] like Figure 2 As shown, the apparatus 100 may further include a filter 226 coupled to the energy generating mechanism 208. The filter 226 may be configured to filter the water in the body of water 206 as the water is drawn into the energy generating mechanism 208.

[0067] Figure 8 , a method 300 for using the hydroelectric energy harvesting device 100 is shown. Step 302 of method 300 may involve transferring energy from the body of water 106 to the energy generating mechanism 108. Step 304 of method 300 may also include utilizing the energy generated by the energy generating mechanism 108 to move water from the body of water 106 to a higher level. Step 304 of method 300 may also include utilizing the movement of water from the higher level to the lower level to generate a fluid flow. Finally, step 306 of method 300 may involve utilizing the fluid flow to drive the hydroelectric generator 230 to generate electricity.

[0068] The device 100 described herein can be one of multiple hydroelectric power collection devices arranged to form a hydroelectric power plant. Multiple devices can be organized into an offshore port arrangement. An offshore port may include a connection to a shoreline. Alternatively, multiple devices can be organized into a seawall arrangement. Multiple devices can include a connection to a national grid and be configured to feed electricity into the national grid. Multiple devices can be attached to a cliff and configured to pump water into a canal. The power plant can be used to charge ships, boats, or other seagoing vessels.

[0069] The device 100 as described herein can be attached to support structures of oil platforms, wind turbines, and other fixed offshore / marine infrastructure. The device 100 can also include a docking portion (not shown) to enable a boat, ship, or other water-based vehicle to attach to or dock with the device 100. The device 100 can be used to charge or top up the batteries of a docked boat, ship, or other vehicle.

[0070] The device 100 described herein can be attached directly to the seabed 116 or other surface beneath the body of water 106 via the support 102. For example, the support 102 can extend into the seabed 116. Alternatively, the device 100 can be attached to the seabed 116 via the support 102 via a flexible link (not shown). The flexible link can be a rope, chain, or equivalent device having a fixed length. The flexible link can provide the device 100 with some movement on the surface of the body of water 106.

[0071] References in the specification to "an example," "an embodiment," "an aspect," or similar language mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least one example, but not necessarily in other examples. Various instances of the phrase "in one example" or similar phrases in different places in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same example. When describing and claiming the examples disclosed herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0072] Although several examples have been described in detail, it should be understood that the disclosed examples can be modified. Therefore, the above description should be regarded as non-restrictive. It should be understood that the examples described herein should be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation. The description of the features or aspects in each example should generally be considered to be applicable to other similar features or aspects in other examples. Although one or more examples have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes can be made in form and detail.

Claims

1. A hydroelectric energy collection device comprising: Support members; a sliding frame movably coupled to the support; a float unit configured to float on a body of water having a movable water level; wherein the float unit is a volume-adjustable float unit, wherein increasing or decreasing the volume of the float unit changes the buoyancy of the float unit; Energy generating mechanism; a float rocker arm coupled to the float unit and the energy generating mechanism, and wherein the float rocker arm is configured to pivot about a pivot point on the slide frame; wherein the float unit is configured to move as the water level of the water body moves to drive the float rocker arm to provide work input to the energy generating mechanism, The sliding frame is configured to adjust the level of the pivot point, the float rocker arm, and the float unit.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a storm support and a storm cover, wherein the float unit is movable on the sliding frame in an inactive state to a parked position away from the body of water, wherein the float unit is supported by the storm support and protected by the storm cover.

3. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the float rocker arm is extendable and is configured to extend or retract to adjust the lever arm of the float unit from the pivot.

4. The apparatus of claims 1 and 3, wherein the apparatus further comprises a controller configured to adjust the level of the float unit and the extension of the lever arm in response to tidal conditions of the body of water.

5. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the energy generating mechanism is configured to transport water from the body of water to a higher level, wherein the flow of water from the higher level to the lower level generates a fluid flow.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a hydroelectric generator configured to extract energy from the fluid flow to generate electricity.

7. The apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the higher water level is configured as a reservoir, the reservoir storing water delivered by the energy generating mechanism.

8. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the reservoir comprises at least one water level sensor for measuring the amount of water stored in the reservoir.

9. The device of any one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the reservoir comprises a valve configured to provide control over the flow of the fluid.

10. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the energy generating mechanism is at least one of: a bellows pump; a single-acting cylinder pump; a double-acting cylinder pump; a single-acting peristaltic pump; a double-acting peristaltic pump; a direct drive pump; a direct mechanical drive pump, Wherein when the pump is a direct mechanical drive pump, the pump utilizes at least one of a belt and pulley, a sprocket and chain, a rack and pinion, or a piston drive arrangement.

11. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a shock absorber, wherein the float unit is coupled to the float rocker arm via the shock absorber.

12. A method of harvesting energy from a body of water using the apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising: transferring energy from the body of water to the energy generating mechanism; utilizing the energy generated by the energy generating mechanism to transfer water in the water body to a higher water level; utilizing the movement of water from said higher water level to said lower water level to generate a fluid flow; The fluid flow is used to drive the hydroelectric generator to generate electricity.

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