Power generator

Abstract

To provide a power generator which disperses stress and a load applied to a rotating body into multiple bearings, is not damaged under a horrible environment where strong wind blows, and can attain higher generation efficiency continuously.SOLUTION: A power generator includes: a shaft 2a extending in a substantially horizontal direction; a plurality of blade members 2b disposed at a predetermined interval in a circumferential direction of the shaft 2a; at least two first support members (first rotating body support parts 2p) which rotatably support the shaft 2a; and a power generator 2e. The blade members 2b are provided between the at least two first support members (the first rotating body support parts 2p). Electric power is generated by the power generator 2e based on wind force.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power generation device that generates power mainly by wind power. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, wind power generation has been rapidly spreading as a form of renewable energy. Wind power generation equipment used in wind power generation can contribute to the supply of sustainable energy and be an effective means of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Small wind power generation equipment in particular is expected to be a means of enhancing the stability of the power infrastructure by enabling individuals and business entities to consume energy for themselves and by enabling local production and consumption of energy in local areas, and by supplying surplus electricity to the grid when electricity demand is tight.

[0003] Regarding the technology related to a small wind power generator, for example, a wind power generator including a guide section in which multiple guide plates are arranged on a circumference, a drum-shaped windmill arranged inside the guide section and having multiple rotors attached, and a power generator connected to the rotating shaft of the drum-shaped windmill, in which the drum-shaped windmill is rotated by external wind guided by the guide section and the power generator is driven by the rotation of the drum-shaped windmill, is known, which includes a wind volume adjustment plate having a wind receiving portion and movably provided in an opening between adjacent guide plates of the guide section, which is configured to receive the external wind at the wind receiving portion and move to change the opening area of ​​the opening, and a brake mechanism configured to brake the rotation of the drum-shaped windmill depending on the strength of the external wind (Patent Document 1).

[0004] According to Patent Document 1, there is no risk of damage even in strong winds, and the drum-type wind turbine can be rotated within the rated rotation speed range to continuously generate power. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-241692 A DISCLOSURE OF THEINVENTION [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1, the rotating shaft of the drum-type wind turbine extends vertically, and the wind power generation device has a so-called vertical axis type configuration. In this configuration, the rotating shaft is rotatably supported by a support part provided at the bottom of the wind power generation device, but it is expected that a large load in the radial direction will be applied to the support part in a poor environment where strong winds blow.

[0007] Furthermore, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a brake mechanism that brakes the rotation of the drum-type wind turbine depending on the strength of the external wind, but the brake mechanism is electrically connected to a control unit and operates based on instructions from the control unit. Specifically, an anemometer is placed outside the wind power generation device, and the value measured by the anemometer is input to the control unit, which then operates a hydraulic brake device to brake the rotation of the wind power generation device. In this configuration, electricity is used to apply hydraulic pressure, and subtracting this electricity would substantially reduce the power generation efficiency of the power generation device.

[0008] The present invention has been devised to solve these problems of the conventional technology, and its object is to provide a power generating device that distributes the load on the bearings of the rotating bodies that make up the power generating device, is not damaged even in poor environments such as strong winds, and can continuously achieve high power generation efficiency. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention, which has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, is a power generation device comprising a shaft extending in an approximately horizontal direction, a plurality of blade members arranged at predetermined intervals circumferentially of the shaft, at least two first support members that rotatably support the shaft, and a generator, wherein the blade members are provided between the at least two first support members, and the generator generates power based on wind force.

[0010] As a result, the rotating body, consisting of the shaft and blade members, is supported at at least two points horizontally, which distributes the stress and load on the rotating body to multiple bearings, making it possible to prevent damage or malfunction even if it is exposed to harsh environments such as strong winds.

[0011] The present invention further comprises a wind tunnel section that houses the shaft, the blade members and the first support member, and the generator generates electricity based on the force of wind passing through the wind tunnel section.

[0012] By using a net or the like in combination with this, birds, animals, etc. can be prevented from entering the internal space of the wind tunnel, and people, etc. can be prevented from accidentally coming into contact with the rotating body.

[0013] In the present invention, the opening area of ​​the outlet side opening through which the wind flows out is made larger than the opening area of ​​the inlet side opening through which the wind flows in.

[0014] This generates an air vortex at the outlet opening of the wind tunnel, lowering the air pressure. The vortex increases the wind speed of the air passing through the wind tunnel, making it possible to increase the amount of power generation.

[0015] The present invention also provides a fan comprising a first group of feathers and a second group of feathers made up of the feather member, the first group of feathers and the second group of feathers being arranged in sequence in the extension direction of the shaft, and a second support member being provided between the first group of feathers and the second group of feathers for rotatably supporting the shaft.

[0016] As a result, the rotating body, consisting of the shaft and blade members, is supported at three horizontal points, which distributes the stress and load on the rotating body to multiple bearings, making it possible to prevent damage or failure of the power generation equipment even if it is exposed to harsh environments such as strong winds.

[0017] The present invention also comprises a wind receiving member that displaces according to the strength of the wind force, and a braking member that brakes the rotation of the shaft, and the braking member is configured to abut against or move away from the shaft based on the displacement of the wind receiving member.

[0018] This makes it possible to eliminate the need for power to operate the brake mechanism, and to substantially improve power generation efficiency.

[0019] The present invention further comprises a discharge portion connected to a water source and discharging water, the discharge portion being provided opposite the blade members.

[0020] This allows the power generating device to generate power using not only wind power but also hydraulic power. Also, the water flow discharged from the discharge portion can remove dirt adhering to the blade members.

[0021] In addition, in the present invention, when the angle formed by adjacent feather members arranged on the shaft in the circumferential direction is θ and the length from the center of the shaft to the tip of the feather member is R, the discharge portion is arranged between a position radially away from the center of the shaft by Rcosθ to the radial outer end of the feather member.

[0022] As a result, in a rotating body composed of a shaft and blade members, regardless of the circumferential position of the blade members, the water flow discharged from the discharge section is guaranteed to hit at least one of the blade members, so that in hydroelectric power generation mode, water can be used for power generation without waste and fluctuations in the rotational speed of the rotating body can be reduced.

[0023] The present invention also provides a fan comprising a first feather group and a second feather group made up of the feather members, the first feather group and the second feather group being arranged in order in the extension direction of the shaft, and when viewed from the extension direction of the shaft, the feather members constituting the first feather group and the feather members constituting the second feather group are arranged so as not to overlap each other.

[0024] This makes it possible to further reduce fluctuations in the rotational speed of the rotor in the hydroelectric power generation mode.

[0025] In addition, the present invention is such that the wind tunnel section is installed on a floating body, and the floating body is caused to float on the water reservoir.

[0026] This allows the wind tunnel section located above the water to rotate easily according to the wind direction and efficiently receive the wind.

[0027] The present invention also comprises a discharge section connected to a water source and discharging water, a water level sensor that measures the water level in the water storage section, an opening / closing valve provided between the water source and the discharge section, and a control section, wherein the control section controls the opening / closing valve based on the output of the water level sensor.

[0028] As a result, when the water level in the water storage section drops, a water flow can be discharged from the discharge section, switching the operation mode of the power generation device to a hydroelectric power generation mode and filling the water storage section with water.

[0029] The present invention also includes an on-off valve provided between the water source and the discharge portion, and a control unit, wherein the control unit measures the amount of electricity generated by the generator and controls the on-off valve based on the measured amount of electricity generated.

[0030] This makes it possible to continue generating electricity by switching the generator's operating mode from wind power generation mode to hydroelectric power generation mode when there is no wind. Effect of the Invention

[0031] In this way, according to the present invention, the stress and load on the rotating body that constitutes the power generation device is distributed among multiple bearings, preventing damage even in harsh environments such as strong winds, and making it possible to achieve even higher power generation efficiency. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of a power generating device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] An explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a power generation device 1 and its associated equipment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of a rotating body 2c and its surroundings. [Figure 4] 1A and 1B are explanatory diagrams illustrating the configuration of a brake mechanism 30 of a power generating device 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of a power generation device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The power generation device 1 includes a power generation device main body 2, a float 3, and a main body support part 4 that supports the power generation device main body 2 at multiple points (for example, four points) of the float 3. In the following description, the side into which the air current F shown in Fig. 1 flows will be referred to as the front, the opposite direction will be referred to as the rear, the right side facing the side into which the air current F flows will be referred to as the right, the opposite direction will be referred to as the left, the side of the power generation device 1 where the power generation device main body 2 is arranged will be referred to as the top, and the side where the float 3 is arranged will be referred to as the bottom.

[0034] The size of the power generating device main body 2 is not particularly limited, but is compact, for example, with a width (left-right direction) of 1.5 m, a depth (front-back direction) of 60 cm, and a height (up-down direction) of about 60 cm. The power generating device main body 2 is composed of a shaft 2a arranged in a substantially horizontal direction, a blade member 2b provided on the shaft 2a (the shaft 2a and the blade member 2b may be collectively referred to as a rotor 2c), two first rotor support parts 2p that support the shaft 2a near both ends in the extension direction, a second rotor support part 2q that supports the shaft 2a at a substantially central part, a generator 2e, a wind receiving member 6, and a wind tunnel part 2f. A roof plate or the like may be placed on the power generating device main body 2.

[0035] The shaft 2a is a cylindrical member made of, for example, aluminum. The shaft 2a may be made of an aluminum alloy such as 6061 alloy or 5052 alloy, or stainless steel. The wing member 2b is also made of an aluminum alloy or the like, like the shaft 2a. The wing member 2b may be made of a composite material made of resin and a reinforcing material, such as CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics) or GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic), which is lighter and stronger. As shown in the figure, the shaft 2a is arranged extending in the horizontal direction. Here, the shaft 2a may be substantially extended in the horizontal direction, and may be inclined, for example, about 10 degrees from the horizontal direction.

[0036] The surface of the vane member 2b may be painted (coated). For example, black paint may be used for the painting. By painting the surface black, the surface temperature rises due to sunlight, and the decomposition of organic matter attached to the surface is promoted. The vane member 2b may also be coated with a photocatalyst. Titanium oxide contained in the photocatalyst paint exhibits hydrophilicity when irradiated with ultraviolet light, generating a thin film of water on the surface of the vane member 2b, and also acts as a catalyst to generate active oxygen. Since active oxygen decomposes organic matter, the decomposed organic matter is washed away by the force of rain (or water flow WS (described later) discharged from the discharge part 10a (see FIG. 3)) on the surface of the vane member 2b, which has hydrophilicity. In this way, the photocatalyst paint has a self-cleaning function, and can prevent organic matter from adhering to the vane member 2b, and can contribute to the smooth rotation of the rotor 2c at all times. Of course, the shaft 2a may also be coated in the same manner.

[0037] The feather members 2b are fixed to the outer periphery of the shaft 2a, for example, by bolts, and multiple feather members 2b (here, eight) are arranged at equal angles (at predetermined intervals) in the circumferential direction. If the feather members 2b are made of metal, they may be joined to the shaft 2a by welding, and if the feather members 2b are made of a composite material containing resin, for example, a groove (not shown) may be formed in the shaft 2a, and the end of the feather member 2b may be inserted into the groove and fixed with an adhesive. The feather members 2b are arranged in two regions, left and right, in the extension direction of the shaft 2a, and respectively constitute the first feather group 2bF and the second feather group 2bS.

[0038] The wind tunnel 2f is formed, for example, by assembling metal or resin plates to a metal frame. An inlet opening 2g is provided in the front of the wind tunnel 2f, and an outlet opening 2h (see FIG. 3) is provided in the rear. Airflow F (wind) flows into the internal space S from the inlet opening 2g and flows out from the outlet opening 2h. A wing for stabilizing the weather vane may be provided behind the outlet opening 2h. By providing the wing for stabilizing the weather vane, the inlet opening 2g is stably oriented in the upwind direction.

[0039] The rotor 2c, the first rotor support 2p, and the second rotor support 2q are housed in the internal space S of the wind tunnel 2f. The opening area of ​​the wind tunnel 2f is gradually increased toward the rear than toward the front, and the rear is shaped like a trumpet. By making the rear of the wind tunnel 2f shaped like a trumpet, the wind tunnel 2f functions as a wind lens (wind concentrator).

[0040] In this way, in the power generating device 1 of this embodiment, the opening area of ​​the outlet side opening 2h through which the wind flows out is made larger than the opening area of ​​the inlet side opening 2g through which the wind flows in, in the wind tunnel 2f. As a result, an airflow vortex ST (see FIG. 3) is generated at the outlet side opening 2h of the wind tunnel 2f, causing a drop in air pressure. As a result, the wind speed of the airflow F at the inlet side opening 2g increases. Since the amount of power generated is proportional to the cube of the wind speed, the amount of power generated is increased. Note that a net or the like (not shown) may be placed at the inlet side opening 2g and the outlet side opening 2h. This, together with storing the shaft 2a, the blade member 2b, and the first support member (first rotor support part 2p) in the wind tunnel 2f, prevents birds, animals, etc. from entering the internal space S of the wind tunnel 2f, and further prevents people, etc. from accidentally contacting the rotor 2c.

[0041] In the internal space S of the air tunnel 2f, a first rotor support portion 2p (first support portion) including a bearing is erected on the inner surface of the lower portion of the air tunnel 2f. The first rotor support portion 2p is disposed near at least both ends of the shaft 2a and rotatably supports the shaft 2a. That is, the blade member 2b is provided between the two first rotor support portions 2p in the extension direction of the shaft 2a.

[0042] Here, a ball bearing, a roller bearing, or the like is adopted as the bearing, and functions as a radial bearing that receives a radial load. In addition, a second rotor support part 2q (second support part) is provided between the first blade group 2bF and the second blade group 2bS. The second rotor support part 2q is also composed of a bearing, and rotatably supports the shaft 2a. One end of the shaft 2a is mechanically connected to the generator 2e. As the generator 2e, for example, an agitation generator or a permanent magnet generator is used.

[0043] The generator 2e has a built-in speed-up gear (not shown), and the generator 2e and the shaft 2a are connected via the speed-up gear. As described later, the power generation device 1 of this embodiment is configured to be able to switch between two operation modes: a wind power generation mode in which power is generated by wind power, and a hydroelectric power generation mode in which power is generated by hydroelectric power. The speed-up ratio of the speed-up gear is changed depending on the operation mode. In the wind power generation mode, the speed-up ratio is set small so that the rotor 2c can rotate easily even when the wind is weak. On the other hand, since the momentum of the water flow WS (see FIG. 3) is easier to increase than that of the air flow F, the speed-up ratio is set large in the hydroelectric power generation mode.

[0044] The wind tunnel section 2f (power generation device main body 2) is installed on the float 3 via the main body support section 4. The material of the main body support section 4 is not particularly limited, but for example, a block made of metal or resin can be suitably used. The float 3 is made of resin such as polypropylene with a weather-resistant and light-resistant coating on the surface, has a flat cylindrical shape on the top and bottom, and has a hollow structure to increase buoyancy. The float 3 on which the power generation device main body 2 is installed is used in a state where it floats on a water storage section 8 that stores water.

[0045] Here, the buoyancy of the float 3 is set so that at least the upper part of the float 3 is exposed above the water surface of the water reservoir 8 when the power generation device main body 2 is installed. A balancer may be installed at a predetermined position on the float 3 so that the center of gravity of the entire float 3 and the power generation device main body 2 (i.e., the power generation device 1) overlaps with the center of the float 3 when viewed from above. Of course, the position of the power generation device main body 2 on the float 3 may be appropriately adjusted so that the center of gravity of the power generation device 1 overlaps with the center of the float 3. The above-mentioned wing for stabilizing the weather vane may also be provided on the float 3. In particular, by providing the wing behind the power generation device main body 2 and near the outer edge of the float 3, the inlet opening 2g is stably oriented in the upwind direction even when the wind speed is low.

[0046] The water storage section 8 is formed to a size that generates a gap between the side surface of the float 3 and the inner surface of the water storage section 8 when the float 3 is installed, and furthermore, a plurality of (at least three) float position regulating parts 9 are provided in the gap. The float position regulating part 9 includes a roller member made of rubber or the like that rotates in contact with the side surface of the float 3, and a support part (both not shown) that is provided on the bottom surface of the water storage section 8 or the like and rotatably supports the roller member. As a result, in the water storage section 8, the float position regulating part 9 regulates the horizontal movement of the float 3 due to wind or the like. However, the float position regulating part 9 does not regulate the rotation of the float 3 in the horizontal plane. That is, the float 3 is rotatable in the horizontal plane with the center of the upper surface of the float 3 as an axis. As a result, the power generation device main body 2 together with the float 3 rotates in the water storage section 8 according to the wind direction, and the air flow F flows into the wind tunnel section 2f from the inlet side opening 2g.

[0047] In this manner, in the power generating device 1 of this embodiment, the wind tunnel section 2f is installed on the float 3, and the float 3 is made to float on the water storage section 8. As a result, the wind tunnel section 2f arranged on the water can easily rotate according to the wind direction and can efficiently receive the wind.

[0048] A connection part 7 is provided on the bottom of the float 3. The connection part 7 is further connected to the bottom surface of the water storage part 8. The connection part 7 is integrally formed with at least a rotating flange (rotary joint) and a slip ring (both not shown), and the float 3 is capable of rotating relatively to the water storage part 8 via the connection part 7.

[0049] Furthermore, at the connection part 7, the rotating flange is connected to a bellows hose (not shown) that expands and contracts in the vertical direction. As will be described later, the power generation device 1 generates electricity not only by wind power but also by hydropower. Water used for hydroelectric power generation is supplied to the power generation device main body 2 via the rotating flange and the bellows hose. With this configuration, even if the float 3 rotates in response to the wind direction of the air current F, or even if the water level in the water storage part 8 fluctuates and the vertical position of the float 3 and the connection part 7 fluctuates slightly, water can be continuously and stably supplied to the power generation device main body 2.

[0050] Moreover, the electric power generated by the generator 2e is taken out via a slip ring. By using a slip ring, it becomes possible to take out electric power continuously and stably from the power generation device main body 2 even if the float 3 rotates or even if the vertical position of the float 3 and the connection part 7 changes slightly.

[0051] Furthermore, an excess water drain outlet 8a is provided on the side of the water storage section 8, and when water flows into the water storage section 8 due to rainfall or the like, the excess water is drained from the excess water drain outlet 8a, preventing the water level in the water storage section 8 from becoming too high. Also, for example, a water level sensor 11 is provided on the edge of the float 3, and if it is determined based on the output of the water level sensor 11 that the water level in the water storage section 8 has become low, water is injected into the water storage section 8, preventing the water level in the water storage section 8 from becoming too low (details will be described later). In other words, the water level in the water storage section 8 is managed to be substantially constant.

[0052] A part of the water storage section 8 may be provided underground, but in this case, the surplus water outlet 8a is provided so as to be exposed above ground. The water overflowing from the surplus water outlet 8a may be led to a water tank (not shown), and the water stored in the water tank may be pumped out by a separate pump and used, for example, as agricultural water or as domestic water after filtering. Of course, water may be pumped out directly from the water storage section 8 by a pump or the like and used as domestic water. In this case as well, water is replenished to the water storage section 8 based on the output of the water level sensor 11 described above.

[0053] Furthermore, at the front of the air duct 2f, wind receiving members 6 are provided on the left and right sides. As will be described later, the wind receiving members 6 are displaced in response to wind force, and the rotation of the rotor 2c is braked based on the amount of displacement.

[0054] The shaft 2a may be not only cylindrical, but also polygonal in cross section perpendicular to the extension direction. The power generation device 1 can also function as a power generation device 1 in an embodiment in which the wind tunnel section 2f is removed, or in which the power generation device main body 2 and the float 3 are placed on the ground and not floating in the water storage section 8, or in which the water storage section 8 is not used and the float 3 is floated in the ocean, a pond, or a lake.

[0055] Thus, the power generating device 1 of this embodiment includes a shaft 2a extending in a substantially horizontal direction, a plurality of blade members 2b arranged at a predetermined interval in the circumferential direction of the shaft 2a, at least two first support members (first rotor support parts 2p) that rotatably support the shaft 2a, and a generator 2e, and the blade members 2b are provided between the at least two first support members (first rotor support parts 2p) and generate electricity using wind power with the generator 2e. As a result, the rotor 2c composed of the shaft 2a and the blade members 2b is supported at at least two points in the horizontal direction, so that the stress and load applied to the rotor 2c is distributed to multiple bearings, and it becomes possible to prevent damage, failure, and the like even if it is exposed to a poor environment such as a strong wind.

[0056] Fig. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the power generating device 1 and its associated equipment. Fig. 2 shows the power generating device 1 as viewed from the inlet opening 2g side. As shown in the figure, the shaft 2a of the rotor 2c is rotatably supported by the first rotor support part 2p at the left end (open end) and between the second blade group 2bS and the generator 2e, and the shaft 2a is rotatably supported by the second rotor support part 2q between the first blade group 2bF and the second blade group 2bS, which are arranged in order in the extension direction (left-right direction).

[0057] In this manner, the power generating device 1 of this embodiment includes the first group of vanes 2bF and the second group of vanes 2bS, which are made of the vane members 2b, and are arranged in order in the extension direction of the shaft 2a. Between the first group of vanes 2bF and the second group of vanes 2bS, a second support member (second rotor support portion 2q) that rotatably supports the shaft 2a is provided. As a result, the rotor 2c, which is made up of the shaft 2a and the vane members 2b, is supported by radial bearings at three points in the horizontal direction, and the stress and load applied to the rotor 2c is distributed to the multiple bearings, making it possible to prevent damage and failure of the power generating device 1 even if it is exposed to a harsh environment such as strong winds.

[0058] In addition, by supporting the shaft 2a at places other than both ends, the rigidity of the entire shaft 2a is improved, and vibration and deformation can be suppressed. As a result, the durability of the shaft 2a, the first rotor support portion 2p, and the second rotor support portion 2q is improved, and the life of the power generating device 1 can be extended. In addition, by arranging the shaft 2a in a substantially horizontal direction, the multiple blades, the first rotor support portion 2p, and the second rotor support portion 2q are arranged at a relatively low position. This eliminates the need to work at high altitudes when performing maintenance (cleaning, repair, replacement, etc.), improving workability and safety.

[0059] A water discharge section 10 is provided above and behind the rotor 2c in the extension direction of the shaft 2a in parallel with the first and second blade groups 2bF and 2bS (see also FIG. 3). The water discharge section 10 has a plurality of discharge sections 10a at positions facing the blade members 2b. A water flow WS (see FIG. 3) is discharged from the discharge sections 10a. The water flow WS rotates the rotor 2c, and at this time, the power generation device 1 operates in hydroelectric power generation mode.

[0060] The auxiliary equipment of the power generation device 1 will be described below. The auxiliary equipment includes a control unit 20, a water source 13, an on-off valve 14, an AC / DC converter 15, a storage battery 17, and a water level sensor 11. The control unit 20 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like, and operates according to a control program stored in a storage unit such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random access memory) (not shown). The control unit 20 operates by receiving power from an external power source or the storage battery 17 (not shown). The control unit 20 is housed in a separate housing from the power generation device 1, for example, in the vicinity of the power generation device 1.

[0061] As the water source 13, for example, water drawn from a river, a pond, etc. via a waterway, rainwater stored in a specified water tank (not shown), or a water supply can be used. In order to ensure a certain water pressure, the water is drawn from or stored at a higher place than the power generation device 1. Of course, if the required water pressure can be obtained, a water supply can also be used directly as the water source 13.

[0062] The water level sensor 11 measures the level of the water in the water storage section 8. As the water level sensor 11, for example, an ultrasonic water level sensor that emits sound waves toward the water surface and measures the time it takes for the sound waves to reflect off the water surface and return, a potentiometer that floats a float on the water surface and is connected to the float, or an optical sensor that detects the position of the float without contact can be used. The water level sensor 11 may be placed on the float 3, or may be placed in the water storage section 8 or nearby.

[0063] The control unit 20 controls the on-off valve 14 based on the output of the water level sensor 11. Specifically, when the water level sensor 11 detects that the water level in the water storage unit 8 is lower than a predetermined water level, the control unit 20 opens the on-off valve 14. On the other hand, when the water level is equal to or higher than the predetermined water level, the control unit 20 closes the on-off valve 14. The water level in the water storage unit 8 falls below the predetermined value mainly when water is pumped directly from the water storage unit 8 by a pump or the like. Here, the "predetermined water level" refers to, for example, the water level at the lower edge of the surplus water discharge outlet 8a.

[0064] When the on-off valve 14 is opened, the water from the water source 13 is sent to the water discharge section 10 by the drain pipe 12 via the on-off valve 14 and the connection section 7, and a water flow WS (see FIG. 3) is discharged from the discharge section 10a. By discharging the water flow WS from the discharge section 10a, the operation mode of the power generation device 1 is switched from the wind power generation mode to the hydroelectric power generation mode. As described above, since the connection section 7 includes a bellows hose that expands and contracts in the vertical direction, water can be stably supplied from the water source 13 to the discharge section 10a even if the water level in the water storage section 8 fluctuates. Note that after the control section 20 opens the on-off valve 14, there is a delay before the water discharged from the discharge section 10a reaches the water storage section 8, so that water may be oversupplied. However, since the surplus water is reused after being discharged from the surplus water discharge port 8a described above (or pumped up from the water storage section 8), water resources are not wasted even when a water supply is used as the water source 13.

[0065] As described above, the power generating device 1 of this embodiment includes a discharge portion 10a that is connected to the water source 13 and discharges water, a water level sensor 11 that measures the water level in the water storage portion 8, an on-off valve 14 provided between the water source 13 and the discharge portion 10a, and a control portion 20, and the control portion 20 controls the on-off valve 14 based on the output of the water level sensor 11. As a result, when the water level in the water storage portion 8 drops, the water flow WS is discharged from the discharge portion 10a, making it possible to switch the operation mode of the power generating device 1 to a hydroelectric power generation mode and to fill the water storage portion 8 with water.

[0066] The electric power generated by the generator 2e is extracted to the outside of the power generating device 1 by a conductor 16 via a slip ring (not shown) provided at the connection portion 7, and is input to the AC / DC converter 15. The AC / DC converter 15 converts the AC output by the generator 2e into DC. The electric power is then stored in a storage battery 17. The electric power stored in the storage battery 17 may be used in an ordinary household or the like via a DC / AC converter (not shown) (local production for local consumption), or may be transmitted to the outside via a power grid.

[0067] Here, the output of the AC / DC converter 15 is input to the control unit 20. The control unit 20 is equipped with a power meter (not shown) and measures the amount of power generated by the power generation device 1 based on the output of the power meter. Then, when the amount of power generated is smaller than a predetermined value or is zero (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "Condition A"), the control unit 20 opens the on-off valve 14 and discharges water from the above-mentioned discharge unit 10a. In this case as well, the operation mode of the power generation device 1 switches from the wind power generation mode to the hydroelectric power generation mode.

[0068] Thus, the power generating device 1 of this embodiment includes an on-off valve 14 provided between the water source 13 and the discharge portion 10a, and a control portion 20. The control portion 20 measures the amount of power generated by the generator 2e based on the force of the wind (airflow F (see FIG. 1)) passing through the wind tunnel portion 2f, and controls the on-off valve 14 based on the measured amount of power generation. This makes it possible to continue generating power by switching the power generation mode from the wind power generation mode to the hydroelectric power generation mode when there is no wind.

[0069] When switching to the hydroelectric power generation mode, the control unit 20 transmits a predetermined control command to the generator 2e. The generator 2e, upon receiving the control command, rearranges the gear train of the speed-up gearbox so that the speed-up rate is increased. As a result, in the hydroelectric power generation mode, the rotation of the rotor 2c is accelerated to generate power. The hydroelectric power generation mode continues for a predetermined period (e.g., 5 minutes), after which the control unit 20 closes the on-off valve 14 and switches the operation mode to the wind power generation mode. In the wind power generation mode, the gear train of the speed-up gearbox is rearranged so that the speed-up rate is reduced. After switching to the wind power generation mode, the control unit 20 refers to the output of the AC / DC converter 15, and if the above-mentioned condition A is satisfied, switches the operation mode back to the hydroelectric power generation mode.

[0070] Fig. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the rotor 2c and its surrounding structure. Fig. 3 shows the power generating device main body 2 as viewed from the right side. However, the housing of the wind tunnel section 2f and the generator 2e are omitted. In addition, among the blade members 2b arranged on the shaft 2a, the first blade group 2bF is drawn with a solid line, and the second blade group 2bS is drawn with a two-dot chain line.

[0071] As shown in the figure, the blade member 2b is formed to be curved in the circumferential direction toward the outer periphery, and furthermore, its outer end is formed into a substantially L-shape. In this way, the blade member 2b is structured to receive the airflow F at the recess 2bi, the rotor 2c receiving the airflow F rotates in the direction D1, and the generator 2e (see FIG. 2) connected to the rotor 2c generates electricity. The base of the blade member 2b that abuts against the shaft 2a is formed with the same curvature as the outer periphery of the shaft 2a, and the blade member 2b and the shaft 2a are joined by bolts (not shown) or welding. The blade member 2b may be further curved in the left-right direction (the extension direction of the shaft 2a) to form the recess 2bi into a bowl shape.

[0072] In side view, the feather members 2b constituting the first feather group 2bF and the feather members 2b constituting the second feather group 2bS are shifted from each other by a predetermined angle in the circumferential direction of the shaft 2a. Specifically, when the number of feather members 2b in each of the first feather group 2bF and the second feather group 2bS is eight, the feather members 2b adjacent in the circumferential direction in each feather group are arranged at an interval of θ=360 / 8=45[deg]. In the relationship between the first feather group 2bF and the second feather group 2bS, the feather members 2b constituting each feather group are arranged at an interval of θ / 2=22.5[deg] in the circumferential direction.

[0073] Of course, the number of the feather members 2b constituting one feather group may be determined arbitrarily. When the number of feather members 2b is N, the feather members 2b in one feather group are arranged at intervals of θ=360 / N [deg] in the circumferential direction, and the feather members 2b are arranged at intervals of θ / 2=360 / 2N [deg] between the two feather groups. Furthermore, when the number of feather groups arranged in sequence in the extension direction of the shaft 2a is M, the feather members 2b are arranged at intervals of θ / M=360 / (M×N) [deg] between the M feather groups.

[0074] The water discharge section 10 is provided with multiple rows (three rows in this case) of discharge sections 10a in the front-rear direction. The discharge sections 10a are provided with multiple rows (three rows) in the left-right direction for each group of feathers (see FIG. 2), and in this embodiment, a total of 9 discharge sections 10a times the number of groups of feathers (two in this case) are arranged to face the recesses 2bi of the feather member 2b. By discharging the water flow WS from the discharge sections 10a, the feather member 2b rotates in the direction D1.

[0075] As described above, the power generating device 1 of this embodiment is connected to the water source 13 (see FIG. 2) and includes a discharge part 10a that discharges water (water flow WS), and the discharge part 10a is provided facing the blade member 2b. The discharge part 10a has a tapered opening that narrows from the water discharge part 10 toward the outlet, which increases the discharge speed of the water flow WS. The power generating device 1 generates electricity not only using wind power but also using the water flow WS. The water flow WS can also remove dirt adhering to the blade member 2b. The cleaning effect is particularly noticeable when the blade member 2b is coated with a photocatalyst.

[0076] Here, when the arrangement interval between adjacent vane members 2b in the circumferential direction in each vane group, i.e., the angle between two adjacent vane members 2b, is θ, and the length from the center of the shaft 2a to the tip of the vane member 2b (the radius of the rotor 2c) is R, the discharge portion 10a is disposed between a position radially away from the center of the shaft 2a by Rcosθ and the radial outer end of the vane member 2b. That is, the discharge range L1 of the water (water flow WS) of the discharge portion 10a in the radial direction of the shaft 2a is L1=R(1-cosθ).

[0077] As a result, regardless of the circumferential position of the blade member 2b on the rotor 2c, the water flow WS discharged from the discharge portion 10a is guaranteed to hit at least one of the blade members 2b, so that in hydroelectric power generation mode, water can be used for power generation without waste and fluctuations in the rotational speed of the rotor 2c can be reduced.

[0078] As described above, the power generating device 1 of this embodiment includes the first and second vane groups 2bF and 2bS, which are made up of the vane members 2b, and the first and second vane groups 2bF and 2bS are arranged in order in the extension direction of the shaft 2a (see FIG. 2). When viewed from the extension direction of the shaft 2a, the vane members 2b constituting the first and second vane groups 2bF and 2b constituting the second vane group 2bS are arranged so as not to overlap each other (non-overlapping). This makes it possible to further reduce the fluctuation in the rotation speed of the rotor 2c in the hydroelectric power generation mode.

[0079] Figures 4(A) and (B) are explanatory diagrams illustrating the configuration of the brake mechanism 30 of the power generating device 1. Hereinafter, explanation will be given with reference to Figure 1 in addition to Figure 4. A pair of brake mechanisms 30 are provided near both ends of the shaft 2a in the extension direction. The brake mechanism 30 is composed of a wind receiving member 6, a wind receiving member support portion 30a, a leaf spring member 30b, a link mechanism 30c, and a brake belt 30d.

[0080] The wind receiving member 6 is a plate-shaped member made of resin or metal such as stainless steel or aluminum alloy, and is provided on the left and right front sides of the wind tunnel 2f so as to protrude from the wind tunnel 2f (see FIG. 1). The wind receiving member 6 is rotatably supported by a wind receiving member support part 30a extending in the vertical direction inside the wind tunnel 2f, and is displaced between directions D2 and D3 around a rotation axis Ax.

[0081] A leaf spring member 30b made of a metal such as stainless steel or titanium is disposed between the wind receiving member support portion 30a and the wind tunnel portion 2f. The leaf spring member 30b biases the wind receiving member 6 in the direction D3 when there is no wind, and displaces the wind in the direction D2 when it receives wind. The stronger the wind, the greater the displacement in the direction D2.

[0082] One end of the link mechanism 30c is connected to the end of the wind receiving member support portion 30a that extends into the wind tunnel portion 2f. A brake belt 30d is connected to the other end of the link mechanism 30c. The brake belt 30d may be made of rubber or the like, or may be made of a material in which a friction material such as metal or fiber is mixed into a base material.

[0083] As shown in Fig. 4(B), the side of the brake belt 30d that is not connected to the link mechanism 30c is engaged with the air duct 2f. The brake belt 30d is provided so as to circle a part of the outer surface of the shaft 2a along the outer surface of the shaft 2a.

[0084] In a windless state, the wind receiving member support portion 30a is biased in the direction D3, and the link mechanism 30c is biased in the direction D5. In this state, the shaft 2a and the brake belt 30d are separated, and the brake belt 30d does not hinder the rotation of the shaft 2a. On the other hand, in a situation where a strong wind is blowing, the wind receiving member support portion 30a is displaced in the direction D2, and the link mechanism 30c is displaced in the direction D4. Accordingly, the end of the brake belt 30d connected to the link mechanism 30c is also displaced in the direction D4. Then, the brake belt 30d is pulled in the direction D4 and abuts against the outer surface of the shaft 2a, and the rotation of the shaft 2a is braked. The braking force at this time becomes stronger as the wind force becomes stronger. In addition, the surface of the shaft 2a facing the brake belt 30d may be roughened by a matte finish or the like, which can further increase the braking force.

[0085] As described above, the power generating device 1 of this embodiment includes the wind receiving member 6 that is displaced according to the strength of the wind force, and a braking member (brake belt 30d) that brakes the rotation of the shaft 2a, and the braking member is configured to come into contact with or separate from the shaft 2a based on the displacement of the wind receiving member 6. This makes it possible to substantially improve the power generation efficiency without the need for electricity to operate the brake mechanism 30.

[0086] Although the power generating device 1 according to the present invention has been described in detail above based on specific embodiments, these are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. For example, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the rotor 2c has been described as having two wing groups, the first wing group 2bF and the second wing group 2bS, but the number of wing groups may be increased to three or more, and a second support member (second rotor support part 2q) may be provided between the multiple wing groups.

[0087] Furthermore, a configuration different from that of the embodiment may be adopted for the rotor 2c. For example, it is possible to use a Darrieus type, a gyromill type, a straight blade type, a cross-flow type, a Savonius type, a paddle type, or an S-rotor type wind turbine. [Industrial Applicability]

[0088] The power generating device of the present invention distributes the stress and load on the rotating body among multiple bearings, will not be damaged even in harsh environments with strong winds, and can continuously obtain high power generation efficiency. Therefore, it can be widely used as a power supply source in, for example, ordinary homes, offices, commercial facilities, and areas where it is difficult to obtain electricity. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 1. Power generation equipment 2. Power generating unit body 2a shaft 2b Wing member 2bi Recess 2bF First Group 2bS 2nd group 2c Rotating body 2e Generator 2f wind tunnel section 2g Inlet opening 2h Outlet side opening 2p First rotating body support part 2q Second rotating body support part 3. Floating Body 6 Wind receiving member 7 Connection 8. Water storage section 8a Surplus water outlet 10 Water discharge part 10a Discharge part 11 Water level sensor 13 Water source 14 On-off valve 15 AC / DC converter 17 Storage battery 20 Control section 30 Brake mechanism 30a Wind receiving member support part 30b Leaf spring member 30c Link mechanism 30d brake belt Ax Rotation axis F Airflow WS water flow

Claims

1. A shaft extending in a substantially horizontal direction; A plurality of vane members arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction of the shaft; At least two first support members that rotatably support the shaft; A generator, Equipped with The wing member is provided between at least two of the first support members, A power generating device, characterized in that the generator generates power based on wind power.

2. a wind tunnel portion that houses the shaft, the blade member, and the first support member, 2. The power generating device according to claim 1, wherein the generator generates power based on the force of wind passing through the wind tunnel portion.

3. 3. The power generating device according to claim 2, wherein an opening area of ​​an outlet side opening through which the wind flows out of the wind tunnel is made larger than an opening area of ​​an inlet side opening through which the wind flows in.

4. A first group of feathers and a second group of feathers are formed of the feather members, The first feather group and the second feather group are arranged in order in the extension direction of the shaft, The power generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising a second support member disposed between the first set of blades and the second set of blades for rotatably supporting the shaft.

5. A wind receiving member that is displaced according to the strength of the wind force; a braking member for braking the rotation of the shaft; Equipped with 2. The power generating device according to claim 1, wherein the braking member is configured to come into contact with or move away from the shaft based on a displacement of the wind receiving member.

6. A discharge part connected to a water source and discharging water, The power generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the discharge portion is provided opposite the blade member.

7. Among the blade members arranged on the shaft, an angle formed between adjacent blade members in the circumferential direction is defined as θ, When the length from the center of the shaft to the tip of the feather member is R, The power generating device according to claim 6 , wherein the discharge portion is disposed between a position radially away from the center of the shaft by R cos θ and an outer end of the blade member in the radial direction.

8. A first group of feathers and a second group of feathers are formed of the feather members, The first feather group and the second feather group are arranged in order in the extension direction of the shaft, The power generating device described in claim 7, characterized in that, when viewed from the extension direction of the shaft, the blade members constituting the first blade group and the blade members constituting the second blade group are arranged so as not to overlap each other.

9. The wind tunnel section is installed on a floating body, 3. The power generating device according to claim 2, wherein the float is adapted to float on a water reservoir.

10. A discharge part connected to a water source and discharging water; A water level sensor that measures the water level of the water storage portion; An on-off valve provided between the water source and the discharge portion; A control unit, The power generating device according to claim 9 , wherein the control unit controls the on-off valve based on an output of the water level sensor.

11. An on-off valve provided between the water source and the discharge portion; A control unit, The control unit is Measure the amount of electricity generated by the generator; 7. The power generating device according to claim 6, wherein the on-off valve is controlled based on the measured amount of power generation.

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