Tidal current power generation system

Abstract

To provide a tidal current power generation system that can efficiently generate power even in a condition with a weak tidal current.SOLUTION: A tidal current power generation system includes: a flow channel formation chamber 2 installed in a floating body floating on the sea and disposed under the sea; a water turbine part 3; a power generator 4; and introduction passage formation means for introducing seawater into the flow channel formation chamber 2. The flow channel formation chamber 2 is configured into a substantially cylindrical shape provided with seawater inflow and outflow openings Ti, To; the water turbine part 3 includes a water turbine part body and a shaft part; the power generator 4 is connected to the shaft part extending from the flow channel formation chamber 2 to convert the rotational power of the shaft part into electrical power; the introduction passage formation means includes a pair of partition bodies 51 provided on a side of the inflow opening Ti in the flow channel formation chamber 2, partitioning a prescribed region on the sea on a side of the inflow opening Ti with the floating body in plan view to form an introduction port E; an introduction passage R is configured such that respective partition bodies 51 extend toward the introduction port E at an interval to each other to thereby become narrow in width in plan view as proceeding to the inflow opening Ti from the introduction port E.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tidal power generation system that generates power by utilizing the kinetic energy of tidal currents. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, tidal power generation, which utilizes the ebb and flow of the tides, has been attracting attention worldwide.

[0003] Tidal power generation is a method of generating electricity by using the tidal current itself or the difference in tidal levels associated with the tides to turn turbines.

[0004] Furthermore, as mentioned above, tidal power generation does not use fuel, and is therefore an environmentally friendly power generation method. Furthermore, compared to solar and wind power generation, tidal power generation has various advantages, such as being unaffected by weather and the regularity of the tides, making it easier to predict and control the amount of power generated, and enabling a stable supply of electricity.

[0005] As an invention relating to such tidal power generation, Patent Document 1 describes an invention relating to a tidal power generation device (power generating ship) that uses a ship.

[0006] The power-generating ship described in Patent Document 1 is configured such that a tidal power generation facility that generates electricity using the rotational force of a screw is installed under the hull. This causes the screw to rotate with the tidal current, driving a generator connected to it and generating electricity. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] Utility Model Registration No. 3169982 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] However, the tidal power generation equipment of the power-generating ship described in Patent Document 1 is constructed as an approximately cylindrical body, and only an anchor is attached to the periphery of its open end (the end of the hull), and inside there is only one screw arranged along almost the entire length of the body. With this configuration, there is a concern that when the tidal current is weak, the screw will not rotate sufficiently and efficient power generation will not be possible.

[0009] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-described circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to provide a tidal power generation system that can generate power efficiently even when the tidal current is weak. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a floating body that floats on the sea, a flow path forming chamber that is provided on the floating body and disposed in the sea, a water turbine unit that is provided in the flow path forming chamber, a power generation device that is connected to the water turbine unit, and an introduction path forming means that can form an introduction path for introducing seawater into the flow path forming chamber, The flow path forming chamber is configured in a substantially cylindrical shape and provided with inlet and outlet openings for the seawater, The water turbine unit has a substantially cylindrical water turbine unit main body that rotates due to tidal currents, and a shaft portion that forms a rotation axis of the water turbine unit main body, the power generating device is connected to the shaft portion extending from the flow path forming chamber, and converts rotational power of the shaft portion resulting from rotation of the water turbine main body into electric power; The introduction passage forming means has a pair of partition bodies that are provided on the inlet opening side of the flow passage forming chamber and that partition a predetermined area on the sea surface on the inlet opening side together with the floating body in a plan view to form an introduction port, The introduction path is configured such that the partitions extend away from each other toward the introduction port, and the introduction path narrows in width in plan view as it extends from the introduction port toward the inlet opening.

[0011] According to the present invention, even when the tidal current is weak, the flow velocity (speed of the tidal current) of seawater flowing into the inlet is increased by the time it reaches the inlet opening, as the inlet passage is configured to narrow in plan view as it approaches the inlet opening. As a result, the seawater, whose flow rate has increased, passes through the flow passage forming chamber from the inlet opening to the outlet opening, causing the main body of the water turbine section inside to rotate, which in turn causes the shaft section to rotate. The power generating device converts the rotational power of this shaft into electricity, allowing for efficient power generation even in weak tidal currents.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the floating body is a ship hull.

[0013] With this configuration, the hull can be steered and moved in a direction that allows seawater to flow into the inlet according to the direction of the tidal current, so that efficient power generation can continue even if the direction of the tidal current changes.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flow path forming chambers in which the water turbine sections are provided are provided on the left and right sides of the floating body.

[0015] With this configuration, seawater can be introduced into each flow path forming chamber, and each water turbine section can be rotated in parallel, allowing for more efficient power generation.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the floating body is interposed between the partition bodies, and the introduction passage is formed as a pair by each partition body and the left and right sides of the floating body.

[0017] With this configuration, an inlet passage corresponding to each flow path forming chamber is formed, allowing seawater to flow more efficiently into each flow path forming chamber, resulting in more efficient power generation operations.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the end of the floating body on the inlet side has a tapered shape.

[0019] This configuration reduces the resistance that the float experiences from the tidal current, while allowing seawater to flow more smoothly into each flow channel forming chamber, allowing for more efficient power generation operations.

[0020] Each of the partitions is substantially plate-shaped.

[0021] This configuration allows each compartment to be integrated with the floating body, making it easier to operate the tidal power generation system and form an introduction path.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the introduction passage forming means has swinging means for swinging each of the partitions about the inlet opening side as an axis.

[0023] With this configuration, when the floating body is moved to another location, for example, the rocking means can be used to rock each partition body as needed, making them approximately parallel to each other, thereby reducing resistance during movement. In addition, the swinging means can be used to vary the distance between the ends of each partition, thereby increasing or decreasing the amount of seawater flowing into the inlet passage, thereby adjusting the flow rate of seawater flowing into each flow path forming chamber.

[0024] In a preferred form of the invention, each of the compartments is a ship hull.

[0025] By adopting such a configuration, the floating body can be simplified and seawater can be stably introduced into the inlet opening even in an environment with strong tidal currents.

[0026] In a preferred form of the present invention, the introduction path forming means has an opening / closing means that is capable of opening and closing the inflow opening, and the opening / closing means includes a lid portion and an adjustment portion that adjusts the degree to which the inflow opening is opened or closed by the lid portion, and when in an open state, the lid portion is arranged to extend diagonally downward from the bottom of the inflow opening.

[0027] With this configuration, when power generation work is not being performed, the inlet opening can be closed by the opening / closing means, preventing the inflow of foreign matter, and when power generation work is being performed, the inlet opening can be opened, causing the lid to partially form a flow path toward the sea, allowing seawater to flow more smoothly into the flow path forming chamber. [Effects of the Invention]

[0028] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a tidal power generation system that can generate power efficiently even when the tidal current is weak. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing a tidal power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a side view and (b) is a plan view. [Figure 2] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing a tidal power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which (a) is a rear view, and (b) and (c) are enlarged views of parts of a flow path forming chamber and the like. [Figure 3] 1A is a partial enlarged view of the water turbine and other components of a tidal power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the water turbine main body of the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a partially enlarged view showing the connection portion of each water turbine main body in the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a usage mode of the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a usage mode of the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a usage mode of the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a usage mode of the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a usage mode of the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modification of the tidal power generation system according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] A tidal power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. The following embodiment is an example of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the following embodiment. In these figures, the symbol X indicates the tidal power generation system according to this embodiment.

[0031] <Configuration> The configuration of the tidal power generation system X will be described below with reference to FIGS. For the sake of convenience, the bow side of the floating body 1 described below will be referred to as the front. FIG. 2(b) shows an enlarged view of the k3 frame in FIG. 2(a), and FIGS. 2(c-1) and 2(c-2) show enlarged views of the k1 frame in FIG. 1(a). FIG. 3 shows an enlarged view of the k2 frame in FIG. 1(a). FIG. 5 shows an enlarged view of the k4 frame in FIG.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the tidal power generation system X comprises a float 1 that is floated on the sea, a flow path forming chamber 2 that is provided on the float 1 and placed in the sea, a water turbine section 3 that is provided in the flow path forming chamber 2, a power generation device 4 that is connected to the water turbine section 3, an introduction path forming means 5 that can form an introduction path R (see Figure 6, etc.) that introduces seawater into the flow path forming chamber 2, a waste collection means 6, and a transmission tower V.

[0033] <<Floating body 1>> In this embodiment, the floating body 1 is a hull, and has a hull main body 11 that forms the bow, a stern structural body 12 connected to the rear end of the hull main body 11, and a support base 13 connected to the upper part of the stern structural body 12.

[0034] The hull main body 11 is steerable like a general cargo ship or passenger ship, can carry and store cargo on its deck or inside, and is equipped with ballast tanks, anchors, etc.

[0035] The stern structural body 12 has a shape that tapers in plan view toward an inlet E (rear side) described below, and is configured as a substantially triangular prism overall.

[0036] The support base 13 is configured as an approximately rectangular prism overall, and is connected to the rear end of the hull main body 11 and the upper part of the stern structure 12 so that its upper surface is positioned approximately in the same plane as the upper surface (deck) of the hull main body 11.

[0037] <<Flow path forming chamber 2>> The flow passage forming chambers 2 are provided on both the port and starboard sides of the hull main body 11. The flow passage forming chamber 2 is formed in a substantially rectangular cylindrical shape extending in the front-rear direction and provided with an inlet opening Ti (rear side) and an outlet opening To (front side) for seawater. Furthermore, the flow path forming chamber 2 is provided with a floor portion f (see FIG. 3) that divides the internal space into an upper space Sa and a lower space Sb, and has a two-story internal structure.

[0038] The floor portion f may be provided with a through-hole as appropriate or may be partially cut away to improve the permeability of seawater inside the flow path forming chamber 2. Furthermore, the passage forming chambers 2 are not limited to being provided on the port and starboard sides of the hull main body 11, but may be provided on the left and right sides of the hull main body 11 by being incorporated inside the hull main body 11.

[0039] <<Waterwheel section 3>> As shown particularly in Figure 3, the water turbine section 3 has a water turbine section main body W of approximately cylindrical shape that rotates due to the tidal current, a shaft section 31 that forms the rotation axis of the water turbine section main body W, and a support section 32 that supports the shaft section 31. The water turbine section 3 is similarly provided in each of the upper space Sa and lower space Sb of each flow path forming chamber 2. By providing the water turbine section 3 in each of the spaces Sa and Sb of the flow path forming chamber 2 having a two-tiered internal structure in this way, more efficient power generation work becomes possible.

[0040] A plurality of water turbine bodies W (five in this embodiment) are arranged in each upper space Sa and each lower space Sb, approximately coaxially along the direction in which each space Sa, Sb extends (front-rear direction). The specific configuration of the water turbine main body W will be described later with reference to FIGS.

[0041] The shaft portion 31 extends over substantially the entire length of each space Sa, Sb, protrudes from the outflow opening To, and is connected to the power generator 4 (a speed-up gear 42 and a power generator main body 43, which will be described later).

[0042] The support portion 32 includes a bearing portion 32a into which the shaft portion 31 is rotatably inserted and supported, and a support pillar 32b that supports the bearing portion 32a. The bearings 32a are arranged on both ends of each water turbine body W. As shown in Figures 2(b) and 4, the support pillars 32b protrude from the left and right side surfaces and bottom surface (floor section f) that make up each space Sa, Sb, and are connected to each bearing section 32a, thereby supporting them so that each bearing section 32a is arranged approximately coaxially. In FIG. 3, the support column 32b on the near side is not shown.

[0043] <<Generator 4>> The power generating device 4 is provided on the outlet opening To side of each flow path forming chamber 2, at a predetermined distance from the outlet opening To, and is connected to the shaft portion 31 extending from each flow path forming chamber 2, and converts the rotational power of the shaft portion 31 resulting from the rotation of the turbine section main body W into electricity. In more detail, the power generation unit 4 is positioned on each of the port and starboard sides of the hull main body 11, slightly spaced from the outflow opening To, and as shown in particular in Figure 3, has a power generation chamber 41, a speed increaser 42, and a power generation unit main body 43.

[0044] Like each flow path forming chamber 2, each power generating chamber 41 is provided with a floor portion f that divides the internal space into an upper space 41a and a lower space 41b, and has a two-story internal structure. Furthermore, each generating chamber 41 is watertight, but at the points where each shaft portion 31 passes through, bearings such as rolling bearings are provided to ensure smooth rotation of each shaft portion 31. Furthermore, each generating chamber 41 has a rounded upper rear portion and a rounded lower rear portion in order to smooth the flow of seawater flowing out from each outflow opening To.

[0045] Furthermore, the upper and lower ends of each power generating chamber 41 are aligned with the upper and lower ends of each flow path forming chamber 2 (arranged so as to be aligned with each flow path forming chamber 2 in the front-to-back direction), and the floor portion f of each power generating chamber 41 is also arranged so as to be at the same height as the floor portion f of each flow path forming chamber 2. Each power generating chamber 41 is provided with an opening and closing door for workers to enter and exit the interior of the hull main body 11.

[0046] The step-up gear 42 and the generator body 43 are similarly provided in the upper space 41 a and the lower space 41 b of each generator chamber 41 . The speed-increasing gear 42 and the power generating device main body 43 are a general speed-increasing gear and power generating device that utilizes the rotation of a central shaft, as is widely used in wind power generators, for example.

[0047] <<Introduction path forming means 5>> The introduction path forming means 5 has a pair of partition bodies 51, a swinging means 52 for swinging each partition body 51 around the inlet opening Ti side as an axis, and an opening / closing means 53 provided to be able to open and close each inlet opening Ti.

[0048] Each partition body 51 is provided on the inlet opening Ti side (rear side), and defines an inlet E by partitioning a predetermined area on the sea surface on the inlet opening Ti side together with the floating body 1 in a plan view. More specifically, the partitions 51 are generally rectangular plate-like bodies extending in the front-rear direction, and are configured to extend apart from one another toward the rear end (inlet E). In other words, the partitions 51 are configured to form a generally V-shaped shape in plan view, flaring out toward the rear end (inlet E). Each compartment 51 includes a compartment body 51a made of a rigid material and approximately rectangular auxiliary floats 51b attached to both sides of the compartment body 51. This stabilizes the support state and swinging motion of each compartment 51 placed in the sea by the swinging means 52.

[0049] Here, the floating body 1 (the rear side of the hull main body 11, the stern structural body 12 and the support base 13) is interposed between the compartments 51. As a result, the introduction passages R are formed in pairs by each partition body 51 and the left and right sides (port and starboard) of the floating body 1, and each introduction passage R is configured so that its width in the left-right direction becomes narrower in a plan view as it moves from each introduction port E to each inlet opening Ti (see Figure 1(b), Figure 6(b), etc.).

[0050] The swinging means 52 includes a partition support means 52a that suspends and supports each partition 51, a support portion 52b that supports each partition 51 so that it can swing around the opening end of the inlet opening Ti as its base end, and a rail portion 52c that enables smooth movement of each partition support means 52a along the front-to-rear direction.

[0051] In this embodiment, the partition support means 52a is three cranes aligned in the front-rear direction. More specifically, each partition support means 52a includes a base m1 placed on a rail portion 52c, and a pair of arms m2 extending laterally from the base m1. Each base m1 is provided with a drive source or the like that enables movement along the rail portion 52c, and can be controlled remotely or by riding on it, along with each arm m2. Each arm m2 is configured to be able to slide and expand / contract by, for example, a hydraulic cylinder, and is configured to be able to turn at a connecting portion (base end) with each base portion m1.

[0052] The hooks at the tip of each arm m2 protrude from the upper part of the inner surface of each partition 51 and engage with protruding portions n having locking holes, thereby supporting each partition 51 at three points on its upper part. The protruding portion n may protrude from the middle of the inner surface of each partition 51.

[0053] Each of the pivotal support portions 52b is a hinge provided on the side of each of the flow path forming chambers 2.

[0054] The rail section 52c is laid extending from the rear end side of the stern structural body 12 to the middle of the hull main body 11 (to the front end of the water turbine main body W arranged adjacent to the inlet opening Ti).

[0055] Each opening / closing means 53 includes a lid portion 53a, an adjustment portion 53b that adjusts the degree to which the inflow opening Ti is opened or closed by the lid portion 53a, and a support column 53c that supports the adjustment portion 53b. In addition, each opening / closing means 53 may be provided on the side of the outflow opening To in order to open and close the outflow opening To. In this case, a cover portion 53a, for example, having an approximately U-shape, may be used to partially close the outflow opening To so as not to hinder the rotation of the shaft portion 31.

[0056] The lid portion 53a is a plate-like body having an approximately rectangular shape, and as shown in particular in Figures 2(b) and 2(c-1), is hinged to the lower opening end of the inlet opening Ti so that it can rotate about an axis in the left-right direction. Furthermore, as shown particularly in Figures 2(b) and 2(c-1), the lid portion 53a is supported by a chain c whose ends are fixed to its inner surface and the inner ceiling surface of the flow path forming chamber 2 so that when the degree of opening is at its maximum (when in the open state), it extends diagonally downward from the bottom of the inlet opening Ti. In FIG. 2(b), the water turbine main body W is shown in a simplified form.

[0057] The adjustment unit 53b is, for example, a housing that houses a winch device that electrically winds and unwinds the support wire t by remote control, and a pair is provided for each flow path forming chamber 2 (inlet opening Ti). The support wires t are drawn out from the communication holes of the housing and fixed to the end faces of the lid portions 53a.

[0058] As a result, as each adjustment section 53b winds up the support wire t, each lid section 53a rotates around its lower end section as an axis, closing the inlet opening Ti, as shown in Figures 2(c-1) and 2(c-2). At this time, the chain c is stored inside each of the flow path forming chambers 2.

[0059] The support pillars 53c are vertically extending pillars provided on the upper surface of each flow channel forming chamber 2 in correspondence with each adjustment portion 53b, and each adjustment portion 53b is fixed to its upper end portion. This prevents the adjustment parts 53b from being submerged in water.

[0060] <<Garbage Collection Method 6>> The garbage collection means 6 is provided corresponding to each flow path forming chamber 2, and has a collection net 61 arranged so as to overlap the inlet opening Ti when viewed from behind, and a net support means 62 that supports the collection net 61.

[0061] Each recovery net 61 is a net member having a substantially rectangular shape that extends from the top to the bottom of the floating body 1.

[0062] Each net support means 62 is, for example, a small crane mounted on the hull main body 11, and supports each recovery net 61 so that it protrudes in the left and right directions in a plan view. Furthermore, as shown particularly in Figure 1, each net support means 62 is positioned adjacent to and in front of the partition support means 52a located most forward, with an inlet E formed by each partition 51. Furthermore, as described above, each net support means 62 is, for example, a small crane, so the protruding direction of each recovery net 61 in a planar view can be freely changed, and it is also possible to move it on the upper surface of the floating body 1.

[0063] <<Transmission tower V>> The transmission tower V is installed on the hull main body 11 and is electrically connected to the power generation device 4 (power generation device main body 43), making it possible to transmit the electrical energy generated by the power generation device 4 to the outside. Furthermore, the transmission tower V is constructed using steel frames and insulators, just like ordinary ones, but considering that the floating body 1 is steered according to the direction of the tidal current, it is preferable that the head part where the insulators are attached is configured to be rotatable 360 ​​degrees. 9, the illustration of the transmission line L extending from the transmission tower V is omitted.

[0064] <<Water turbine body W>> As shown in Figure 4, the water turbine main body W has a substantially cylindrical tubular body W1, a plurality of water receiving portions W2 provided at intervals in the axial direction on the inner and outer surfaces of the tubular body W1, a shaft portion constituent W3 that forms the rotation axis of the tubular body W1, and a shaft support portion W4 that fixes and supports the shaft portion constituent W3 so that it forms the central axis of the tubular body W1. 4(a) is a perspective view showing the inside of the water turbine main body W (tubular body W1), and FIG. 4(b) is a perspective view showing the exterior of the water turbine main body W. As shown in FIG. In addition, in FIG. 4(a), the water receiving portion W2 provided on the outer peripheral surface and the shaft portion constituent body W3 inside the tubular body W1 are omitted.

[0065] The tubular body W1 is preferably made of a metal material such as stainless steel, but may also be made of a plastic material such as vinyl chloride.

[0066] Each water receiving portion W2 includes a support plate W21, which is approximately thin and ring-shaped and fixed to the inner and outer surfaces of the tubular body W1, and a plurality of water receiving portion main bodies W22, each approximately rectangular and thin, fixed to the support plate W21 at predetermined intervals around the circumference.

[0067] The support plate W21 is formed of a metal material such as stainless steel, and the inner peripheral surface support plate W21 and the outer peripheral surface support plate W21 are arranged to face each other across the tubular body W1.

[0068] Each water receiving portion body W22 is formed from a metal material such as stainless steel, and is connected to the support plate W21 so that when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the central axis direction, it has an angle (angle of attack) of approximately 60 to 80 degrees with respect to the central axis (rotation axis) direction.

[0069] Each shaft constituent W3 is connected to an adjacent shaft constituent W3 as shown in FIG. 5(a) in a state where it is inserted into the bearing portions 32a arranged on both end sides of each water turbine main body W (each tubular body W1). That is, one end of each of the shaft constituents W3 is inserted into each opening end of the insertion pipe p, and a connecting member b such as a bolt is driven into each end via this insertion pipe p, so that the shaft constituents W3 are connected so as to be arranged approximately coaxially. As a result, by connecting the shaft constituent bodies W3, one shaft 31 is formed for one upper space Sa or one lower space Sb.

[0070] Here, the shaft components W3 are actually connected in the manner shown in Figures 5(b-1) and 5(b-2). In addition, in FIGS. 5(b-1) and (b-2), the support column 32b on the near side is not shown.

[0071] That is, the worker slides the insertion pipe p onto one end of the shaft constituent body W3 and abuts it against the bearing portion 32a, and then installs each water turbine main body W (and support portion 32), resulting in the state shown in Figure 5 (b-1). Thereafter, the worker slides the insertion pipe p toward the adjacent shaft constituent W3, thereby inserting it into one end of this shaft constituent W3, resulting in the state shown in FIG. 5(b-2). Finally, as described above, the worker drives the connecting members b, such as bolts, into each end portion via the insertion pipe p, thereby connecting the shaft constituents W3.

[0072] The shaft support portion W4 includes a cylindrical body W41 provided at each end of the tubular body W1, through which the shaft portion constituent W3 is inserted and fixed, and a plurality of connecting plates W42 extending radially from the cylindrical body W41 and connected to the inner circumferential surface of the tubular body W1.

[0073] By configuring each turbine section body W as described above, each water receiving section W2 (each water receiving section body W22) receives seawater flowing in due to the tidal current, and a rotational force is applied to the tubular body W1 and each shaft support section W4 connected thereto. This causes the shaft constituent body W3 (shank 31) to rotate.

[0074] <Usage> Hereinafter, the manner in which the tidal power generation system X is used will be described with reference to FIGS. 7(a) shows an enlarged view of the k5 frame in FIG. 6(a), and FIG. 7(b) shows an enlarged view of the k6 frame in FIG. 6(a). In addition, in Figures 6(b) and 8, in order to clearly show the inlet E and the inlet path R, the rear and central partition support means 52a, the front arms m2, the recovery nets 61, and the support base 13 are shown transparently. In addition, in FIG. 6(b), the inlet E is shown imaginarily by a two-dot chain line. In addition, in Figures 6 to 10, the currents are indicated by gray arrows.

[0075] <<Power Generation Process>> When the tidal power generation system X shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is placed on the sea, the state shown in FIG. 6 is achieved. In FIG. 6(a), the straight line K indicates the waterline.

[0076] That is, as shown in FIG. 6(a), each flow path forming chamber 2, the power generation device 4, each partition 51, etc. are placed in the sea, and the inside of each flow path forming chamber 2 is filled with seawater. At this time, the operator steers and positions the floating body 1 in accordance with the direction of the tidal current so that each inlet E and each inlet opening Ti face the direction of the tidal current. Furthermore, the operator can adjust the degree to which the floating body 1 sinks into the sea by using the ballast tank as needed.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 6(b), seawater flows from each inlet E through each inlet passage R due to the tidal current and into each inlet opening Ti.

[0078] As described above, each introduction path R is configured so that its width in the left-right direction narrows in plan view as it moves from each introduction port E toward each inlet opening Ti. Therefore, the flow velocity (speed of the tidal current) of the seawater that flows into each inlet R from each inlet E increases as it moves toward each inlet opening Ti, and flows into each inlet opening Ti. This is the effect of each inlet R acting like a funnel, with the image of collecting the seawater (tidal current) that flows into each inlet R.

[0079] As described above, power generation occurs as follows due to the accelerated current:

[0080] That is, as shown in FIG. 7(a), seawater flows into each upper space Sa and each lower space Sb from each inlet opening Ti. At this time, the lid portion 53a of each opening / closing means 53 also causes seawater flowing below each inlet opening Ti to be collected in each inlet opening Ti.

[0081] Then, as shown in FIG. 7(b), the seawater flows through each upper space Sa and each lower space Sb and flows out from each outflow opening To. At this time, the water receiving portions W2 of the water turbine main bodies W receive seawater, causing the water turbine main bodies W to rotate all at once, and this torque is transmitted to the shaft portions 31.

[0082] As a result, power generation is performed by each power generation device main body 43 via each gearbox 42.

[0083] The electric energy generated as described above is transmitted to the outside in a manner as shown in FIG. 8, for example.

[0084] In other words, the tidal power generation system X performs power generation operations in an area of ​​the sea where stable tidal currents occur, a predetermined distance from the seaport Z, and a relay ship Y is positioned between the tidal power generation system X and the seaport Z. In addition, transmission towers V similar to those of the tidal power generation system X are installed on the relay ship Y and the seaport Z, and transmission lines L are suspended between each of the transmission towers V.

[0085] As a result, the electrical energy generated by the tidal power generation system X is transmitted from the transmission tower V of the tidal power generation system X to the transmission tower V of the seaport Z via the transmission tower V of the relay ship Y. The electrical energy is then transmitted to other facilities such as substations via transmission lines L extending from a transmission tower V at seaport Z, where it is distributed and stored. In addition, without using the transmission tower V at the seaport Z, electrical energy may be transmitted directly from the transmission tower V of the relay ship Y to other facilities such as a substation.

[0086] <<Other uses>> Since the floating body 1 in this embodiment is a steerable hull, when the direction of the tidal current changes, the operator can steer the floating body 1 so that each inlet E and each inlet opening Ti faces the direction of the tidal current, as shown in Figure 9.

[0087] Furthermore, when not generating power or when the floating body 1 is to be moved a long distance, the operator can configure the tidal power generation system as shown in FIG.

[0088] That is, the operator controls the adjustment section 53b of each opening / closing means 53, winds up the support wire t, rotates the lid section 53a, and closes each inlet opening Ti. Furthermore, the worker controls the net support means 62 for each waste collection means 6, rotates the collection net 61 toward the floating body 1, and moves it close to the port and starboard sides. Then, the worker controls each partition support means 52a for each swinging means 52 to appropriately extend each arm m2 while sliding each base m1 forward along the rail portion 52c, thereby rotating each partition 51 toward the floating body 1 and making them approximately parallel to each other.

[0089] <Effects> As described above, according to this embodiment, even in situations where the tidal current is weak, the shape of each inlet passage R increases the flow rate of seawater before it reaches each inlet opening Ti, and this seawater rotates the shaft portion 31, thereby efficiently performing power generation operations.

[0090] Furthermore, since the floating body 1 is a ship hull, it is possible to continue efficient power generation work even when the direction of the tidal current changes.

[0091] Furthermore, since the flow path forming chambers 2 are provided on both the port and starboard sides of the floating body 1, seawater can be flowed into each flow path forming chamber 2, causing each turbine section 3 to rotate in parallel, enabling more efficient power generation operations.

[0092] Furthermore, since the inlet passages R are formed in pairs by each partition body 51 and the port and starboard sides of the floating body 1, an inlet passage R corresponding to each flow path forming chamber 2 is formed, allowing seawater to flow more efficiently into each flow path forming chamber 2, and enabling more efficient power generation operations.

[0093] Furthermore, since the stern structure 12 has a tapered shape, it is possible to reduce the resistance that the floating body 1 receives from the tidal current while allowing seawater to flow more smoothly into each flow path forming chamber 2, thereby enabling more efficient power generation operations.

[0094] Furthermore, when the floating body 1 is moved to another location, for example, the rocking means 52 can be used to rock each partition 51 as needed to make them approximately parallel to each other, thereby reducing resistance during movement, and by varying the distance between the rear ends of each partition 51 to increase or decrease the amount of seawater flowing into the introduction passage R, the flow rate of seawater flowing into each flow path forming chamber 2 can be adjusted.

[0095] In addition, when power generation work is not being performed, the opening / closing means 53 can close each inlet opening Ti, thereby preventing the inflow of foreign matter, and when power generation work is being performed, each inlet opening Ti can be opened, so that the lid portion 53a partially forms a flow path toward the sea, allowing seawater to flow more smoothly into each flow path forming chamber 2.

[0096] <Example of change> The shapes and dimensions of the components shown in the above-described embodiment are merely examples and can be modified in various ways based on design requirements, etc.

[0097] For example, in this embodiment, the floating body 1 is a steerable hull, but it may be a simple floating body without a drive source or the like.

[0098] Furthermore, the flow path forming chamber 2 does not necessarily have to have two levels, but may have one level or three or more levels.

[0099] Furthermore, the flow path forming chambers 2 do not necessarily have to be provided in pairs on the left and right, but may be provided in the center of the rear of the floating body 1, or may be formed using the interior of the floating body 1. In this case, for example, a pair of partitions 51 may extend from the left and right ends of the inlet opening Ti of the flow path forming chamber 2, thereby leaving only one introduction path R.

[0100] The power generation device 4 may also be disposed on the upper surface of the hull main body 11 by extending the shaft portion 31 upward using a gear or the like.

[0101] The power generating device 4 may also include a pump device or the like for discharging seawater that has flowed into each power generating chamber 41 to the outside.

[0102] Furthermore, the power generation device 4 does not need to be provided on the side of each outlet opening To, but may be provided on the side of each inlet opening Ti, in which case each opening / closing means 53 is not necessarily required.

[0103] Furthermore, the specific means for the swinging means 52 is not particularly limited as long as it is configured to stably support and swing each partition 51. For example, although the partition support means 52a is illustrated very simply in this embodiment, a crane as a general heavy machinery may be used, and there may be one arm m2 and one base m1, so that there are a total of six cranes, or the number of cranes is not important. Alternatively, each partition 51 may be supported by a partition support means 52a (crane) in a manner that the partition 51 is suspended by a wire rope.

[0104] Furthermore, the generated electrical energy does not necessarily have to be transmitted to the outside in the manner shown in Figure 8. For example, as in offshore wind power generation, it may be transmitted by laying a power transmission cable from the floating body 1 to the seabed. Alternatively, instead of using a transmission tower V, a storage battery electrically connected to the power generation device 4 can be loaded onto the floating body 1, and electrical energy can be stored in the battery, allowing the tidal power generation system X to transport electrical energy to the seaport Z.

[0105] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which each partition 51 was made into a substantially plate-like body, but as shown in FIG. 11, each partition 51 may be a ship hull.

[0106] More specifically, in the modified example shown in Figure 11, each partition body 51 is a hull similar to the floating body 1, and is arranged so that an inlet E is formed by each of the bows (and the rear end of the stern structural body 12). Such an arrangement state is realized by having other workers separately steer each compartment 51 in addition to the floating body 1.

[0107] Furthermore, on the upper surface of each partition 51, locking projections h are provided at predetermined intervals in the direction in which each partition 51 extends. Furthermore, in this modified example, the tip of the arm m2 of the partition support means 52a is formed in a ring shape that can be locked onto each locking projection h.

[0108] As a result, the distal end of each arm m2 is locked to the corresponding locking projection h, thereby stabilizing the arrangement of each partition 51. In this modified example, two partition body support means 52a are provided, and each arm m2 is not engaged with the central locking protrusion h of each partition body 51. However, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, etc., three partition body support means 52a may be provided, and each arm m2 of the central partition body support means 52a may also be engaged with the central locking protrusion h.

[0109] In addition, in this modified example, unlike the embodiment shown in Figure 1 etc., each support portion 52b is not provided, and instead, a cushion body u is provided on the side of each flow path forming chamber 2 to prevent contact between the rear end of each partition body 51 and each flow path forming chamber 2.

[0110] The word "abbreviated" in the application documents is a concept that means that the shape that follows has been chamfered or rounded, and that the elements that make up the shape have been deformed or changed in length within a range that does not impede the purpose of the shape. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] X Tidal power generation system 1 Floating body 2. Flow channel forming chamber Ti inflow opening To outflow opening 3 Water wheel section W Water turbine body 4. Power generation equipment 5 Introductory channel forming means 6. Garbage collection methods V transmission tower E entrance R introduction path

Claims

1. The system comprises a float that floats on the sea, a flow path forming chamber that is provided on the float and disposed in the sea, a water turbine unit that is provided in the flow path forming chamber, a power generation device that is connected to the water turbine unit, and an introduction path forming means that can form an introduction path for introducing seawater into the flow path forming chamber, The flow path forming chamber is configured in a substantially cylindrical shape and provided with inlet and outlet openings for the seawater, The water turbine unit has a substantially cylindrical water turbine unit main body that rotates due to tidal currents, and a shaft portion that forms a rotation axis of the water turbine unit main body, the power generating device is connected to the shaft portion extending from the flow path forming chamber, and converts rotational power of the shaft portion resulting from rotation of the water turbine main body into electric power; The introduction passage forming means has a pair of partition bodies that are provided on the inlet opening side of the flow passage forming chamber and that partition a predetermined area on the sea surface on the inlet opening side together with the floating body in a plan view to form an introduction port, The inlet passage is configured such that each partition extends away from each other toward the inlet, and the width of the inlet passage narrows in plan view as it extends from the inlet toward the inflow opening.

2. The tidal power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the floating body is a ship hull.

3. The tidal power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the flow path forming chambers in which the water turbine units are provided are provided on both the left and right sides of the floating body.

4. The floating body is interposed between the compartment bodies, The tidal power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the introduction passages are formed in pairs by each of the partitions and the left and right sides of the floating body.

5. The tidal power generation system according to claim 4 , wherein an end of the floating body on the inlet side has a tapered shape.

6. The tidal power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein each of the partitions is a substantially plate-shaped body.

7. 7. The tidal power generation system according to claim 6, wherein the introduction passage forming means has swinging means for swinging each of the partition bodies about an axis of the inlet opening side.

8. The tidal power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein each of the compartments is a ship hull.

9. the introduction path forming means has an opening / closing means that is provided to be able to open and close the inflow opening, the opening / closing means includes a lid portion and an adjustment portion that adjusts the degree to which the inlet opening is opened or closed by the lid portion, The tidal power generation system according to claim 1 , wherein the lid portion is arranged to extend obliquely downward from a lower portion of the inlet opening when in an open state.

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