Multi-hybrid generator system

Abstract

The power generation system includes an extractor configured to extract moisture from ambient air surrounding the power generation system and a first tank configured to store the moisture, an electrolyzer configured to receive the moisture and perform a chemical process to produce hydrogen, a second tank configured to store the hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer, a generator system configured to generate electrical power from the hydrogen, and a controller configured to control the operation of the extractor and the electrolyzer.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates generally to power systems and, more particularly, to a hydraulic-to-hydrogen-to-electric power generation system that employs a multi-hybrid power generator to harvest and generate electrical power from interchangeable power sources. The hydraulic-to-hydrogen-to-electric power generation system utilizes the multi-hybrid power generator to extract hydrogen from the atmosphere for subsequent storage and use, and / or for further power generation. [Background technology]

[0002] Today's news is filled with reports about global warming, pollution, and other environmental crises affecting the world's inhabitants. Dire predictions are made about the environmental state of the world and its natural resources. One focus of these reports is global electricity generation, use, and consumption. Electricity is generated from a variety of sources, including coal, oil, and natural gas. The processing of these sources causes adverse environmental impacts, including pollution, acid rain, and the greenhouse effect. Given the importance of electricity to our everyday comforts, including but not limited to heating, lighting, communications, transportation, and computing, as well as to global industry and the economy, it is unlikely that the global demand for electricity will slow significantly.

[0003] To combat some of the negative environmental impacts of electricity generation, scientists, researchers, and industry have recently focused on alternative and / or renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and tidal power. Wind power exists in certain countries, where large wind farms or wind parks are constructed with varying numbers of wind turbines installed over large areas known to experience long periods of regular wind. The wind rotates the turbine blades, converting wind energy into mechanical power. This mechanical power is then converted into electricity using generators. However, wind power suffers from potential limitations, such as being highly dependent on location, season, and weather conditions to generate and maintain the wind needed to generate electricity. Furthermore, the cost of acquiring the necessary real estate and installing a large number of wind turbines on that property can be prohibitively expensive, creating a barrier to market entry.

[0004] Solar energy is another of the alternative energy sources mentioned above. Solar energy is directed at harvesting energy from the sun, which is converted into thermal or electrical energy. Generally, solar energy is utilized in three main ways: photovoltaics, solar heating and cooling, and concentrated solar power. Photovoltaics generate electricity directly from sunlight through electronic processing. Photovoltaics typically power small and / or medium-sized applications, ranging from a single device (such as a calculator) to an off-grid home powered by a photovoltaic array. Solar heating and cooling (SHC) and concentrated solar power (CSP) applications use both heat generated by the sun to provide space or water heating (in the case of solar heating and cooling SHC systems) or to run conventional electricity-generating turbines (in the case of concentrated solar power CSP plants). This type of renewable energy is typically characterized as passive solar or active solar. This energy technology can be implemented as a distributed generation model (e.g., installed at or near the point of use) or a central station model (e.g., utility-scale solar power plants similar to conventional power plants). These energy systems can also store generated energy for distribution at a later time (e.g., after sunset) using various solar storage technologies. These features make solar power one of the more desirable alternative renewable energy sources. However, solar power has a potential drawback: it is inherently intermittent, meaning that periods without source sunlight can render the generated solar energy unavailable. This necessitates the storage of generated solar energy in batteries, which increases the overall cost of a pure solar energy system.

[0005] Solar thermal is another form of solar energy. This approach is similar to conventional power generation in that the sun's energy powers a power plant and indirectly produces electricity. Solar thermal focuses on matching the efficiency of conventional power plants that burn fossil fuels. However, this requires complex equipment, such as heating oil to very high temperatures by concentrating light on concentrating mirrors. Additionally, the cost of designing, building, operating, and maintaining a solar thermal power plant is very high. In addition to these economic challenges, finding suitable geographic locations for solar thermal power plants is an additional challenge.

[0006] As mentioned above, many renewable energy technologies require some form of energy storage capacity. Many systems and methods for energy storage have been developed. One such energy storage system involves pumping water to an elevated reservoir and then releasing it through a hydroelectric generator. Compressed air energy storage systems compress air using a compressor and store the compressed air in geological formations (caves, aquifers, etc.) or other structures so that it can be drawn upon when energy is needed. Typically, the compressed air is mixed with natural gas and combusted and expanded in a turbine to generate mechanical power, which drives a generator to generate electricity. Mechanical gearboxes are used to convert speed and torque from a power source (such as a renewable energy source) to the generator interface. However, mechanical gearboxes require extensive maintenance and tend to deteriorate faster than the systems they support. Direct drive generators can eliminate the need for such expensive mechanical gearboxes, but the complexity and associated maintenance of direct drive generators can be costly. Due to geographical constraints and the challenge of using fixed-volume geological formations, these compressed air energy systems typically operate at high, variable pressures during energy storage and recovery. This requirement for high, variable pressures reduces the efficiency of compressors and turbines that operate at optimum performance at a single design pressure. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 041038 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] While various energy storage solutions exist, these systems have certain drawbacks, including energy losses during the conversion process, the use of reservoirs that require a large geographic footprint, high construction costs, limitations on the amount of energy that can be stored, and the dissipation of stored energy over time. Furthermore, converting compressed air back into electricity is a complex and inefficient process.

[0009] Another type of energy system is the hybrid energy system. A hybrid energy system is defined as the integration of multiple types of energy generation devices, such as electric energy generators, electric energy storage systems, and renewable energy sources. Hybrid energy systems (hybrid power sources) typically use two or more renewable energy sources to increase system efficiency and improve the balance of energy supply. Hybrid systems combine two or more power generation methods, for example, by using renewable technologies such as solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind turbines. Hybrid systems not only provide a high level of energy security through the combination of power generation methods, but can also incorporate energy storage systems (batteries, fuel cells, etc.) and small fossil-fuel generators to ensure maximum supply reliability and security. The basic components of such systems are power sources (wind turbines, diesel engine generators, solar arrays, etc.), batteries, and a power management center that coordinates the generation of electricity from each power source. The advantage of a hybrid energy system is that it can provide continuous, uninterrupted power supply, as batteries connected to the hybrid energy system store energy for later use. A further advantage of hybrid energy systems is that they also increase the utilization of renewable energy sources, lower maintenance costs, as well as provide higher efficiency and improved load management. Disadvantages of hybrid energy systems include increased process control complexity resulting from the need to precisely control the types of different energy sources and their interactions and coordination, high installation costs, battery life, and the overall load capacity that can be connected to the system.

[0010] Some hybrid energy systems incorporate hydrogen power as one or more components of the system. However, one of the major challenges of hydrogen power generation is the availability of dedicated, efficient, and sustainable input power to supply the power-intensive demands of the hydrogen production process (i.e., the atmospheric water extraction-electrolysis cycle). Currently, most hydrogen is produced from fossil fuels such as natural gas. Hydrogen can also be produced from electricity distributed through the electrical grid or from renewable energy sources such as biomass, geothermal, solar, and wind. However, the electrical grid is not an ideal power source for electrolysis because most electricity is generated using greenhouse gas-emitting and energy-intensive technologies.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need for a multi-hybrid generator system that improves energy harvesting by enabling efficient production and storage of hydrogen for use in power generation systems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] The present invention is directed to a multi-hybrid generator and system that facilitates the harvesting, generation, and storage of energy from interchangeable power sources. In a first embodiment of the present invention, a multi-hybrid power generator system for harvesting energy from interchangeable power sources is provided. The multi-hybrid power generator system includes one or more battery banks electrically connected to the interchangeable power sources and hydraulic electric actuation devices (HEADs) for receiving energy from the interchangeable power sources and storing the energy in the HEADs. The HEADs are initially powered by the one or more battery banks. The HEADs drive mechanical energy through pistons to piston rods. Each piston has a pair of retraction springs connected to the piston. The pistons reside within hydraulic chambers. The multi-hybrid power generator system also includes a crankshaft driven by the pistons and an intelligent power controller communicatively coupled to at least one electrical load and multiple power management devices. The intelligent power controller controls energy monitoring, energy generation, energy distribution, and energy storage between the battery banks, the electrical loads, the interchangeable power sources, and the hydraulic electric actuators HEADs.

[0013] In a second embodiment of the present invention, a method of generating electrical power using a multi-hybrid generator system is provided. The method includes a first control step of controlling a first subset of hydroelectrically actuated HEADs of the multi-hybrid generator system to power a first generator, and a second control step of controlling a second subset of hydroelectrically actuated HEADs to power a second generator. The method further includes a third control step of controlling both the first subset of hydroelectrically actuated HEADs and the second subset of hydroelectrically actuated HEADs in unison to drive the first and second generators. The method further includes alternating between the three steps to provide efficient energy generation while maintaining a portion of the multi-hybrid generator system in a cooling cycle mode.

[0014] In a second embodiment of the present invention, a multi-hybrid generator system is provided. The multi-hybrid generator system includes one or more battery banks electrically connected to receive energy from an interchangeable power source and store it in a hydroelectric actuator head. The hydroelectric actuator head is initially powered by the battery bank. The hydroelectric actuator head drives mechanical energy to a piston rod via a piston. A pair of retraction springs is connected to each piston. Each retraction spring is made of a spring material and balanced at an operating angle to increase the piston's influence on the crankshaft. The pistons are located in hydraulic chambers. The system also includes an intelligent power controller communicatively coupled to an electrical load and multiple power management devices. The intelligent power controller controls energy monitoring, energy generation, energy distribution, and energy storage among the battery banks, the electrical load, the interchangeable power source, and the hydroelectric actuator heads.

[0015] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the accompanying drawings and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments that follow. Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are provided to illustrate, but not to limit, the present invention, in which like designations represent like elements. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a multi-hybrid generator system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view of a crankshaft for use in the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]2 is a perspective view of a gearbox for use in the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 4A is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary engagement between the crankshaft of FIG. 2 and the gearbox of FIG. 3 and showing the location of retraction springs for use in the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4B is a front view illustrating an exemplary engagement between the crankshaft and gearbox showing an alternative configuration of retraction springs in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 4C is a side view of a portion of the system of FIG. 4B. [Figure 5] 2 illustrates an exemplary intelligent power controller configured for use with the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] An exemplary architecture for a multi-hybrid power generation application is presented for use in the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 2 illustrates an exemplary power management apparatus configured for use with the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 2 is a flowchart of operations for harvesting energy from interchangeable power sources using the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 2 is a schematic diagram of a hydraulic-to-hydrogen-to-electric power generation system according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings. The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the words "exemplary" or "illustrative" mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" or "illustrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. All embodiments described below are exemplary embodiments provided to enable one skilled in the art to make or use embodiments of the present disclosure, and are thus not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, as defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms "top," "bottom," "left," "rear," "right," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and their derivatives refer to the invention as oriented in the figures herein. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, abstract, or the following detailed description. It is also understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and described in the following specification, are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0018] As shown throughout the figures, the present invention is directed to a multi-hybrid generator and system that facilitates energy harvesting, generation, and storage from interchangeable power sources.

[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of a multi-hybrid power generator system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the multi-hybrid power generator system 100 includes multiple battery banks (i.e., a first battery bank 102, a second battery bank 104, and a third battery bank 106). The multiple battery banks are adapted to, among other things, harvest energy from an interchangeable power source 108 to power at least one electrical load 116, illustratively shown as a home having an electrical load for operating household devices. The multiple battery banks (i.e., the first battery bank 102, the second battery bank 104, and the third battery bank 106) may be one of several different types of batteries, including, but not limited to, lead-acid, lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-iron (NiFe), saltwater, or absorbent glass mat (AGM). According to one embodiment, the first battery bank 102, the second battery bank 104, and the third battery bank 106 are all of the same type (e.g., NiCd) and substantially the same size and capacity. While three battery banks are illustrated, more or fewer than three battery banks may be utilized without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention. According to embodiments herein, the interchangeable power source 108 may be any natural, alternative, and / or renewable energy source, including, but not limited to, solar power, wind power, or hydroelectric power. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the interchangeable power source is solar power using multiple photovoltaic (PV) solar panels (i.e., first photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-1, second photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-2, third photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-3, and fourth photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-4). Each photovoltaic PV solar panel includes multiple photovoltaic cells 112.Illustratively, each of the photovoltaic PV solar panels may be configured as a 12 volt, 1.5 amp panel, taking into account the requirement to power at least one electrical load 116. As will be readily understood, a photovoltaic panel is made up of a number of photovoltaic cells, each capable of converting sunlight into electricity. In accordance with the principles of the embodiments disclosed herein, the multi-hybrid generator system 100 harvests, generates, stores, and supplies energy without requiring any fossil fuels, thereby providing a cleaner energy footprint compared to other generator systems.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1 , the multi-hybrid power generator system 100 further includes a plurality of power management hydroelectric actuators (HEADs) (i.e., a first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, a second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, a hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and a fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4). Each power management device SIR includes at least one sensor unit (e.g., sensor unit 616; see FIG. 7 ) for measuring power at any time, at least one inverter unit (e.g., inverter unit 614; see FIG. 7 ) for converting direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), and at least one energy router unit (e.g., energy router unit 612; see FIG. 7 ) for managing power distribution. Each power management device SIR is further communicatively coupled to an intelligent power controller 118 via a communication link 150. The intelligent power controller 118 is communicatively coupled to the electric loads 116 and the plurality of power management devices SIR. The intelligent power controller 118 selectively controls power monitoring, generation, distribution, and storage between and to the multiple battery banks (i.e., first battery bank 102, second battery bank 104, and third battery bank 106), at least one electrical load 116, and multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs (i.e., first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4). The multiple hydroelectric actuator HEAD configuration depicted in FIG. 1 is one of various configurations that may be used in accordance with the principles of the disclosed embodiments.

[0021] 1 , according to an embodiment, the output of a replaceable power source 108, for example, the energy output of a plurality of photovoltaic PV solar panels (i.e., first photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-1, second photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-2, third photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-3, and fourth photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-4), is utilized and transferred to a first battery bank 102 via a first power management unit SIR (power management unit) 114-1, thereby providing an immediate power storage option. In this manner, the first battery bank 102 is electrically connected to the replaceable power source 108 to receive and accumulate (store) energy from the replaceable power source 108. The first battery bank 102 is electrically connected to a first power management unit SIR (i.e., first power management unit SIR (power management unit) 114-1) and a second power management unit SIR (i.e., second power management unit SIR 114-2) of the plurality of power management units SIR. If necessary, the inverter unit 614 of the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 inverts direct current (e.g., supplied by multiple photovoltaic PV solar panels) into alternating current. This power stored in the first battery bank 102 is then managed by the second power management unit SIR 114-2 and is used to initially power the multi-hybrid generator 148. The multi-hybrid generator 148 includes multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs (i.e., a first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, a second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, a hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and a fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4). The hydroelectric actuator HEADs are used to convert source energy (e.g., electrical energy) into mechanical / hydraulic motion. In one embodiment, each hydroelectric actuator HEAD includes a hydro-electric pump. In a further embodiment, each hydroelectric actuation device HEAD comprises an electric actuator.

[0022] The plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEAD, when initially powered by the first battery bank 102, drive mechanical energy through a combination of a plurality of pistons (i.e., piston 120-1, piston 120-2, piston 120-3, and piston 120-4) and a plurality of piston rods (i.e., first piston rod 122-1, second piston rod 122-2, third piston rod 122-3, and fourth piston rod 122-4). The first piston 120-1 is disposed within a first hydraulic chamber 130-1 of the plurality of hydraulic chambers and is mechanically coupled to a first piston rod 122-1 of the plurality of piston rods. In turn, this mechanical energy is transferred to a first crankshaft 124 and a second crankshaft 126, respectively (each crankshaft 124, 126 configured as shown in crankshaft 200 of FIG. 2). Each of the first crankshaft 124 and the second crankshaft 126 has a respective drive gear 206 located at a respective center point 212 along each crankshaft (124, 126) (depicted in detail in FIG. 2). In turn, the first drive gear 206 of the first crankshaft 124 is mechanically connected to the first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132. The second drive gear 206 of the second crankshaft 126 is mechanically connected to the second gear set 140 of the second gearbox 138. Each gearbox and each gear set is configured as shown in gearbox 300 of FIG. 3, as described in further detail herein below.

[0023] A first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 of the plurality of hydroelectric actuator HEADs provides hydraulic force to drive a first piston 120-1 (and each first piston rod 122-1) of the plurality of pistons. The first piston 120-1 has a first pair of retracting springs 128 connected thereto (depicted in detail in FIGS. 4B and 4C). The first pair of retracting springs 128 run along the outside of the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, which drives the first piston 120-1. The first pair of retraction springs 128 support the upward force (along upward direction 146) of the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 during retraction of the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 and return of the first piston 120-1 to its original position. Each of the other hydroelectric actuator HEADs (i.e., the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, the third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4) has a corresponding pair of retraction springs 128 that function in a similar manner. In this manner, each corresponding piston-piston rod combination set has a pair of retraction springs 128. The pair of retraction springs 128 run along the sides of the combined piston-piston rod set and assist in retracting the pistons from their corresponding downstrokes (along downward direction 144), thereby significantly improving the overall efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator 148 and multi-hybrid generator system 100. The retraction springs 128 increase the efficiency of the pistons by reducing the work the pistons do working against gravity, particularly on the upstroke. While the retraction springs 128 are shown as a pair, it will be understood that there are any number of additional embodiments that may include a different number of retraction springs.

[0024] In one embodiment, the retraction spring 128 is manufactured using a specially formulated spring alloy consisting of approximately 55% high-carbon steel, 24% titanium (Ti), and 21% vanadium (V). This blend supports anti-gravity effects and therefore improves the overall efficiency of each crankshaft (124, 126). Additionally, the density of the material (see Equation (1) below) affects the effectiveness of the spring (e.g., spring efficiency). Embodiments herein seek alloys with specific strength, malleability, torsional strain / stress resistance, and heat dissipation capabilities. In one embodiment, the natural frequency of the retraction spring is approximately 20 times the applied frequency of the cyclic load. This avoids resistance at all harmonic frequencies up to the 20th order. In one embodiment, the natural frequency Fn of the retraction spring 128 as configured in FIG. 1 is given by Equation (1):

[0025]

number

[0026] where: d = diameter of the wire. D = average diameter of the spring.

[0027] n = number of active turns. G = stiffness coefficient. g = acceleration due to gravity.

[0028] β = density of spring material. It will be understood that the above-identified spring alloy formulation is but one such formulation that may be used consistent with the principles of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0029] Furthermore, when an object is heated or cooled, the object's length changes by an amount proportional to the object's original length and the change in temperature. Thus, the modified linear expansion coefficient (α) of the specially formulated spring alloy (see equation (2) herein below) is an important feature of the retraction spring 128. Therefore, given the expected high pressures and high temperatures generated by the multi-hybrid generator 148 and its components, this coefficient is an important design consideration. According to an embodiment, the linear thermal expansion change in length of the retraction spring 128 is given by equation (2):

[0030]

number

[0031] where: ΔL = change in length of the object. L0 = original length of the object.

[0032] α = Modification coefficient of the linear expansion coefficient of the special alloy material. Modifying this coefficient increases the resistance to gravity on the crankshaft upstroke. t0=initial temperature.

[0033] t1=final temperature. Each hydroelectric actuator HEAD disclosed herein specifically addresses the upward force of hydraulic pressure and counter-spring motion (i.e., anti-gravity displacement) on the upstroke to produce a specific required power output on the crankshaft drive gear. An optimal required torque output on the drive gear (center of crankshaft) is required for the multi-hybrid generator system 100 to achieve a final power output with an efficiency (conversion of electrical / pressure energy to mechanical energy / torque) of 76% or greater. The hydroelectric actuation constant optimum efficiency (HEACOE) is defined by equation (3):

[0034]

number

[0035] where: F=force. P = pressure.

[0036] ρ=density. V=velocity. g = gravity due to acceleration.

[0037] h = height (total discharge volume). σt = allowable tensile resistance. μ = coefficient; and t=time.

[0038] Additionally, a second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2 of the plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEAD drives a second piston 120-2 of the plurality of pistons, which has a second pair of retraction springs 128 coupled to the second piston 120-2. The second piston 120-2 is disposed within a second hydraulic chamber 130-2 and is mechanically coupled to a second piston rod 122-2 of the plurality of piston rods. The first piston rod 122-1 and the second piston rod 122-2 are coupled to a first crankshaft 124. A third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3 of the plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEAD drives a third piston 120-3 of the plurality of pistons, which has a third pair of retraction springs 128 coupled to the third piston 120-3. The third piston 120-3 is disposed within the third hydraulic chamber 130-3 and is coupled to a third piston rod 122-3 of the plurality of piston rods. A fourth hydraulic electric actuator HEAD 116-4 of the plurality of hydraulic electric actuators HEAD drives a fourth piston 120-4 of the plurality of pistons, to which a fourth pair of retraction springs 128-4 is connected. The fourth piston 120-4 is disposed within the fourth hydraulic chamber 130-4 and is coupled to a fourth piston rod 122-4 of the plurality of piston rods. The third piston rod 122-3 and the fourth piston rod 122-4 are mechanically coupled to the second crankshaft 126. According to the embodiment, the first crankshaft 124 is mechanically coupled to a first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132 via a first drive gear 206. The first crankshaft 124 also includes a first counterweight 202 and a second counterweight 204 connected to the first crankshaft 124 (detailed in FIG. 2).

[0039] 4B and 4C, the retraction spring 128 may be configured as a helical spring disposed inside the piston / hydraulic chambers (130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4). In one embodiment, the retraction spring 128 may be configured as a tension spring.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 2, a perspective view of a crankshaft 200 for use in the multi-hybrid generator system 100 of FIG. 1 is shown, according to an embodiment. The crankshaft 200 includes a weighted separator support joint 208 that mechanically couples the first crankshaft 124 and the second crankshaft 126. The weighted separator support joint 208 separates and balances the first crankshaft 124 and the second crankshaft 126, allowing one to operate independently of the other. Additionally, the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 130-1 and the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 130-2 form a first hydroelectric actuator HEAD set or subset. The third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 130-3 and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 130-4 form a second hydroelectric actuator HEAD set or subset. Each set of hydroelectric actuator heads powers a respective section of the crankshaft 200 by mechanically driving a respective gearbox through a unique gearset. Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a gearbox 300 for use in the multi-hybrid generator system 100 of Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Each of the first gearbox 132 and the second gearbox 138 is similarly configured with the gearbox 300 equipped with a gearset 302. Although the multiple hydroelectric actuator heads are depicted in a straight in-line orientation, alternative orientations, including but not limited to a V-shaped orientation, may be utilized without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention.

[0041] In this manner, each crankshaft 200 (i.e., first crankshaft 124 and second crankshaft 126) drives a respective gearbox (i.e., first gearbox 132 and second gearbox 138, respectively) by and through a respective drive gear on the crankshaft, which is mechanically connected to a respective gearset (i.e., first gearset 132 and second gearset 138). As a result, the efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator 148 and the multi-hybrid generator system 100 is improved. And, the multi-hybrid generator 148 operates at a lower / cooler operating temperature overall given the independent operation of the crankshaft sections according to the embodiment. As shown, in addition to the drive gear 206, the crankshaft 200 includes multiple counterweights 210, including the first counterweight 202 and the second counterweight 204, as described above. In one embodiment, the first counterweight 202 is connected adjacent to the first piston 120-1 at the connection to the first crankshaft 124. The second counterweight 204 is connected adjacent to the second piston 120-2 at the connection to the first crankshaft 124. Similarly, the third counterweight is connected adjacent to the third piston 120-3 at the connection to the second crankshaft 126. The fourth counterweight is connected adjacent to the connection to the fourth piston 120-4 at the connection to the second crankshaft 126. In this manner, at each corresponding point on the crankshaft 200 where the piston rods move in the downward direction 144, there is a corresponding counterweight that cooperates with the existing gravity force generated by the piston downstroke in the downward direction 144. In this manner, the continuous movement of the piston rods on each crankshaft section both rotates and mechanically drives the respective gearbox (i.e., the first gearbox 132 or the second gearbox 138). The downward 144 mechanical movement of the multiple hydroelectric actuators HEAD as described herein, in conjunction with the downward gravitational force on the counterweight, increases the efficiency of such piston downstroke as a function of both crankshaft torque and rotational efficiency.Similarly, the upward 146 movement of the hydroelectric actuator HEADs, in conjunction with their respective pairs of retraction springs 128 supporting such upward 146 movement and associated forces, increases the efficiency of the upward stroke of the pistons as a function of crankshaft torque and rotation, as well as the overall efficiency of the hydroelectric actuator HEADs, both collectively and individually. In one embodiment, the force generated by each piston's downstroke is approximately 16 pounds per square inch (109.8 kPa). This allows a set or subset of hydroelectric actuator HEADs to operate at a pressure of approximately 26 pounds per square inch (178.5 kPa) by alternating downstrokes of two hydroelectric actuator HEAD subsets in unison. The operation of the hydroelectric actuator HEAD subsets allows for varying pressures depending on the application and system needs.

[0042] Returning to FIG. 1 , the second crankshaft 126 is mechanically connected to a second generator 142 via respective second drive gears mechanically connected to a second gear set 140 of a second gearbox 138. The second crankshaft 126 includes a third counterweight and a fourth counterweight connected to the second gearbox 138. Thus, each gearbox system mechanically drives a respective generator connected to the respective gearbox system. The first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 and the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2 ultimately drive the first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132 to power the first generator 136 (detailed in FIG. 3 ). In this manner, the first generator 136 is mechanically connected to the first gearbox 132. The first generator 136 is communicatively connected to a third power management unit SIR 114-3 of the plurality of power management units SIR for powering a second battery bank 104 of the plurality of battery banks (i.e., the second battery bank 104). The second battery bank 104 of the plurality of battery banks is electrically connected to receive and store energy from the first generator 136. The first generator 136 is managed by the third power management unit SIR 114-3 of the plurality of power management units SIR, which is electrically connected to the first generator 136. Similarly, the third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3 and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4 drive a second gear set 140 of a second gearbox 138 to ultimately power a second generator 142 (depicted in detail in FIG. 3 ). The second generator 142 is electrically connected to and powers a third battery bank of the plurality of battery banks (i.e., the third battery bank 106). For such purposes, the third battery bank 106 of the plurality of battery banks is electrically connected to receive and store energy from the second generator 142, such that the third battery bank is electrically connected to a fourth power management unit SIR114-4 of the plurality of power management units SIR.The second generator 142 is mechanically connected to the second gearbox 138 and is similarly communicatively connected to a fourth power management unit SIR 114-4 of the plurality of power management units SIR. A fifth power management unit SIR 114-5 is communicatively coupled to the second battery bank 104 and the third battery bank 106 to manage power between the second battery bank 104 and the third battery bank 106. According to an embodiment, under direction of the intelligent power controller 118, the second battery bank 104 and the third battery bank 106 can simultaneously or alternately power both the plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEAD and at least one electrical load 116 to optimize the overall efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator system 100. Advantageously, the ability to mechanically drive each gearbox synchronously, independently, or alternatively significantly improves the efficiency and durability of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 by avoiding continuous mechanical motion without a defined rest period.

[0043] According to the disclosed embodiment, the first battery bank 102 initially powers the plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEADs (116-1, 116-2, 116-3, 116-4). The plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEADs (116-1, 116-2, 116-3, 116-4) then provide mechanical power to the respective piston / piston rod combinations (120 / 122). The piston / piston rod combinations (120 / 122) then provide mechanical power to the respective drive gears (206) of the respective crankshafts (124, 126). The respective drive gears (206) then provide mechanical power to the respective gear sets (134, 140) of the respective gearboxes (132, 136). Each gearbox (132, 136) then provides mechanical power to the respective generators (136, 142) that generate electrical power. The generated electrical power is supplied to and stored in multiple battery banks (e.g., second battery bank 104, third battery bank 106) and satisfies at least one electrical load (e.g., household (116)). This is further illustrated in Figures 4A-4C, which show perspective views of an exemplary engagement 400 between the crankshafts (124, 126) of Figure 2 and the gearboxes (132, 136) of Figure 3 for use in the multi-hybrid generator system 100 of Figure 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown and described in detail above, with the first drive gear 206 of the first crankshaft 124 engaged and the second drive gear 206 of the second crankshaft 126 engaged in a similar manner, the piston / piston rod combination provides mechanical power to each drive gear (204, 206) of each crankshaft (124, 126), such that each drive gear (206, 206) provides mechanical power to each gear set of each gearbox (i.e., first gearbox 132 and first gearset 134, and second gearbox 138 and second gearset 140). Each gearbox in turn provides mechanical power to a respective generator (i.e., first generator 136 and second generator 142). The generated power is supplied to and stored in multiple battery banks, as well as to satisfy at least one electrical load (e.g., a household).2, the first drive gear 206 is located at a first center point (212) along the first crankshaft 124. The first drive gear 206 is mechanically connected to the first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132 to drive the first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132. Similarly, the second drive gear 206 is located at a second center point (212) along the second crankshaft 126. The second drive gear 206 is mechanically connected to the second gear set 140 of the second gearbox 138 to drive the second gear set 140 of the second gearbox 138. In another embodiment, a gear pulley or belt assembly (not shown) is employed with each gearbox to couple the gearbox to a generator.

[0044] The intelligent power controller 118 and the multi-hybrid generator application 500 will now be described in further detail with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary intelligent power controller 118 configured for use in the multi-hybrid generator system 100. The intelligent power controller 118 includes a bus 902 and a processor 904 coupled to the bus 902 to perform operations and process information related to the multi-hybrid generator system 100. As will be appreciated, an "intelligent power controller" in the context of this specification includes a wide variety of devices, such as dedicated hardware devices, smartphones, laptop computers, servers, tablets, and wearable devices, to name just a few, that execute software and / or mobile applications in accordance with the principles of the embodiments disclosed herein. The processor 904, which is powered by a power source 914, can include both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors and can be the device's only processor or one of multiple processors. Additionally, the processor 904 may include one or more central processing units (CPUs). The processor 904 may comprise, be supplemented by, or be incorporated into one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and / or one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). The artificial intelligence (AI) processor 920 may be used to execute AI protocols to enhance the operation of the multi-hybrid generator system 100, for example, by collecting and interpreting data provided by the multiple power management units SIRs to generate various responses and actions to be taken by the multiple power management units SIRs with respect to power monitoring, and thereby increasing the overall efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator system 100.

[0045] The intelligent power controller 118 may also include a main memory 906 coupled to the bus 902 for storing computer-readable instructions executed by the processor 904. The main memory 906 may also be utilized for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during execution of instructions by the processor 904. The intelligent power controller 118 may also include a read-only memory (ROM) 908 or other static storage device(s) coupled to the bus 902. Additionally, a data storage device 910, such as a magnetic, optical, or solid-state device, may be coupled to the bus 902 for storing information and instructions for the processor 904, including, but not limited to, the multi-hybrid generator application 500. The data storage device 910 and the main memory 906 may each include a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and a high-speed random access memory, such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDRRAM), or other random access solid-state memory device. The data storage device 910 and the main memory 906 may each include non-volatile memory such as one or more magnetic disk storage devices, such as an internal hard disk or a removable disk, a magneto-optical disk storage device, an optical disk storage device, a flash memory device, a semiconductor memory device, such as an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk read-only memory (DVD-ROM) disk, or other non-volatile solid-state storage device.

[0046] The intelligent power controller 118 may also include one or more communication interfaces 918 for communicating with other devices via a network (e.g., a wireless communication network) or communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth®). Thus, such communication between the power management units SIR and the intelligent power controller 118 covers the communication link 150. Such a communication interface may be a receiver, transceiver, or modem for exchanging wired or wireless communications in any number of well-known ways. In some embodiments, the communication interface 918 is an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card or a modem / router used to facilitate data communications of various well-known types and formats. Further illustratively, the communication interface 918 may be a local area network (LAN) card used to provide data communications connectivity to a comparable LAN. Wireless communication links may also be implemented.

[0047] As will be appreciated, the function of the communications interface 918 is to send and receive various signals (e.g., electrical, optical, or other signals) that transmit data streams representing various data types. The intelligent power controller 118 may also include one or more input / output devices 916 (e.g., a camera, a display, a keyboard, a mouse, speakers, a microphone, buttons, etc.) that enable user interaction with the intelligent power controller 118. The input / output (I / O) devices 916 may include peripherals such as a camera, a printer, a scanner, a display screen, etc. For example, the I / O devices 916 may include a display device such as a cathode ray tube (CRT), plasma, or liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor for displaying information to a user, a keyboard, and a pointing device such as a mouse or trackball through which a user can provide input to the intelligent power controller 118. The intelligent power controller 118 may be any one of a variety of hardware devices. For example, a network-enabled portable tablet computer and / or dedicated portable hardware devices configured according to FIGS. 4 and 5 may be employed in the context of the disclosed embodiments.

[0048] As described above, the intelligent power controller 118 is communicatively coupled to the electrical loads 116 and the plurality of power management devices SIR to selectively control power monitoring, power generation, power distribution, and power storage in or for the plurality of battery banks (i.e., the first battery bank 102, the second battery bank 104, and the third battery bank 106), at least one electrical load 116, and the plurality of hydroelectric actuator HEADs (i.e., the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, the third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4). According to an embodiment, providing the aforementioned operations is facilitated by execution of a multi-hybrid generator application 500. FIG. 6 illustrates an example architecture of a multi-hybrid generator application 500 for use with the multi-hybrid generator system 100. As shown, the exemplary architecture for operation of the multi-hybrid generator application 500 provides multiple modules and engines used to perform various functions for energy harvesting, generation, and storage from interchangeable power sources, and to selectively control the functions of power monitoring, generation, distribution, and storage throughout the multi-hybrid generator system 100, and in particular, to control various portions of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 by controlling multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs (i.e., first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4). In conjunction with operation of the execution engine 502, monitoring and control of the multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs is performed by a power monitoring module 504, a power generation module 506, a power distribution module 508, a hydroelectric actuator HEAD module 520, and a power management module 514.Additionally, the artificial intelligence (AI) module 510 may be used to define and execute AI protocols via the artificial intelligence (AI) processor 920, and may enhance the operation of the multi-hybrid generator system 100, for example, by collecting and interpreting data provided by the multiple power management units SIRs to generate various responses and actions to be taken by the multiple power management units SIRs with respect to power monitoring, thereby increasing the overall efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator system 100.

[0049] The communications and data collection module 512 facilitates communications and data collection between and from the intelligent power controller 118 and the multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs (i.e., the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, the third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4). In this manner, the power distribution module 508 can route and distribute power throughout the multi-hybrid generator system 100, as described in more detail herein. The power management module 514 provides overall power management for generated power from the multi-hybrid generator system 100, including power distribution to at least one electrical load 116 and the multiple battery banks (i.e., the first battery bank 102, the second battery bank 104, and the third battery bank 106). The power storage module 518 controls the storage of such generated power, for example, across multiple battery banks (i.e., the first battery bank 102, the second battery bank 104, and the third battery bank 106). The power management module 514 also provides operations to control and prevent overload and overheating conditions across the various components of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 by measuring and monitoring the overall system capacity and flow of generated power and directing power to one or more of the multiple batteries and / or at least one electrical load 116. The data display interface module 516 and the communications and data collection module 512 are illustratively used to facilitate the input, output, and display (e.g., in a graphical user interface) of power data and other information to a user across the multi-hybrid generator system 100.

[0050] 7, an exemplary power management device SIR 600 is configured for use in the multi-hybrid generator system of FIG. 1 according to the embodiment of the multi-hybrid generator system 100. The configuration of the exemplary power management device SIR 600 is adapted to be applicable to any of the multiple power management devices SIR (i.e., the first SIR 114-1 to the fifth SIR 114-5) as shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 6, each power management device SIR 114 includes at least one sensor unit 616 for measuring power at any point in time, at least one inverter unit 614 for converting direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), and at least one energy router unit 612 for managing power distribution. Each power management device SIR is communicatively coupled to the intelligent power controller 118 for selectively controlling power monitoring, generation, distribution, and storage between and among the plurality of battery banks (i.e., the first battery bank 102, the second battery bank 104, and the third battery bank 106), at least one electric load 116, and the plurality of hydroelectric actuator HEADs (i.e., the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1, the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2, the third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3, and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4) via a communications interface 620. The power management device SIR 600 is powered by a power source 622 and further includes a bus 618 and a processor 602 coupled to the bus 618 for performing operations and processing by executing a hydroelectric actuator HEAD app 610 stored in a data storage device 608. The power management device SIR 600 may also include a ROM 606 or other static storage device(s) coupled to the bus 618. The main memories 604 may each include a tangible, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium or other storage device, such as those detailed hereinabove, for storing executable code and / or other information useful for the execution of the hydroelectric actuator HEAD app 610.

[0051] 8, a flowchart of exemplary operations 700 for harvesting energy from an interchangeable power source using the multi-hybrid generator system 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown, the operations 700 include harvesting energy from an interchangeable power source, such as an array of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels (i.e., a first photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-1, a second photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-2, a third photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-3, and a fourth photovoltaic PV solar panel 110-4), at step 702, and storing the harvested energy in a first battery bank 102 of a plurality of battery banks, at step 704. Next, at step 706, the harvested interchangeable power source energy stored in the first battery bank 102 is converted into electrical energy using a multi-hybrid generator 148 including a plurality of power management devices SIR and a plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEAD according to a series of power harvesting steps. As indicated above, each power management unit SIR comprises at least one sensor for measuring the power at any time, at least one inverter for converting direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), and at least one energy router for managing the power distribution.

[0052] The method (700) further includes, in step 708, driving a first generator 136 mechanically connected to a first gearbox 132 including a first gearset 134 under control of at least the second power management device SIR 114-2 according to a first stage of the power harvesting phases. Step 708 drives a first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 of the plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEAD that drives a first piston 120-1 of the plurality of pistons having a first set of retraction springs 128 connected to the first generator 136 to generate and supply electrical energy to a second battery bank 104 of the plurality of power banks. The first piston 120-1 is located within the first hydraulic chamber 130-1 and is mechanically coupled to a first piston rod 122-1 of the plurality of piston rods to drive a second hydraulic electric actuator HEAD 116-2 of the plurality of hydraulic electric actuators HEAD and a second piston 120-2 of the plurality of pistons. The second piston 120-2 has a second pair of retraction springs coupled to the second piston 120-2. The second piston 120-2 is located within the second hydraulic chamber 130-2 and is mechanically coupled to a second piston rod 122-2 of the plurality of piston rods. The first piston rod 122-1 and the second piston rod 122-2 are mechanically coupled to a first crankshaft 124. The first crankshaft 124 includes a first drive gear 206, a first counterweight 202, and a second counterweight 204 coupled to the first crankshaft 124. The first drive gear 206 is located at a first center point along the first crankshaft 124 and is mechanically connected to the first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132 to drive the first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132. The first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 and the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2 drive the first piston 120-1 and the first piston rod 122-1, and the second piston 120-2 and the second piston rod 122-2, respectively, thereby driving the first crankshaft 124 and the first drive gear 206.The first drive gear 206 is mechanically connected to the first gear set 134 of the first gearbox 132 to drive the first gear set 134, thereby supplying power to the first generator 136. The first generator 136 is electrically connected to and supplies power to the second battery bank 104 of the plurality of battery banks. The first generator 136 and the second battery bank 104 are electrically connected to a third power management unit (SIR) 114-3 of the plurality of power management units (SIRs).

[0053] Step 710 generates and supplies electrical energy to a third battery bank 106 of the plurality of power banks under control of the second power management device SIR 114-2 according to a second stage of the power harvesting sequence by driving a second generator 142 mechanically connected to a second gearbox 138 including a second gearset 140 and a third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 120-3 of the plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEAD. The third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 120-3 drives a third piston 120-3 of the plurality of pistons, the third piston 120-3 having a third pair of retraction springs 128 connected to the third piston 120-3. The third piston 120-3 is located in a third hydraulic chamber 130-3 and is mechanically connected to a third piston rod 122-3 of the plurality of piston rods. The third piston 120-3 drives a fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4 of the plurality of hydroelectric actuators HEADs and a fourth piston 120-4 of the plurality of pistons, which has a fourth pair of retraction springs 128 connected to the fourth piston 120-4. The fourth piston 120-4 is located in a fourth hydraulic chamber 130-4 and is mechanically coupled to a fourth piston rod 122-4 of the plurality of piston rods. The third piston rod 122-3 and the fourth piston rod 122-4 are mechanically coupled to a second crankshaft 126. The second crankshaft 126 includes a second drive gear 206, a third counterweight, and a fourth counterweight coupled to the second crankshaft 126. The second drive gear 206 is located at a second center point along the second crankshaft 126 and is mechanically connected to the second gear set 140 of the second gearbox 138 to drive the second gear set 140 of the second gearbox 138. The third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3 and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4 drive the third piston 120-3 and third piston rod 122-3 and the fourth piston 120-4 and fourth piston rod 122-4, respectively, and drive the second crankshaft 126 and the second drive gear 206, which is mechanically connected to the second crankshaft 126.The second drive gear 206 drives the second gear set 140 of the second gearbox 138 to power the second generator 142. The second generator 142 is electrically connected to and powers the third battery bank 106 of the plurality of battery banks. As shown in FIG. 1 and described previously herein, the second generator 142 and the third battery bank 106 are electrically connected to the fourth power management unit SIR 114-4 of the plurality of power management units SIR. The first crankshaft 124 and the second crankshaft 126 are mechanically connected by the load separator support joint 208 such that the load separator support joint 208 separates the first crankshaft 124 and the second crankshaft 126 and allows one to operate independently of the other.

[0054] In step 712, the method further includes selectively controlling the distribution of electrical energy generated and supplied by the first generator 136 and the second generator 142, respectively, between or to the at least one electrical load, the plurality of battery banks, and the plurality of hydroelectric actuation devices HEAD using an intelligent power controller 118 communicatively coupled to the at least one electrical load 116 and the plurality of power management devices SIR.

[0055] In this manner, operation enables the harvesting, generation, storage, and management of electrical power from interchangeable power sources for distribution to electrical loads and storage in multiple battery banks. Specifically, the intelligent power controller 118 operates the battery banks (102, 104, 106) and hydroelectric actuator HEADs 116 in stages to provide a cooling cycle for at least one battery bank and / or at least one hydroelectric actuator HEAD while the remaining battery banks and / or hydroelectric actuator HEADs are operating, as depicted in FIG. 8. For example, during a first stage (first operating stage 708), the intelligent power controller 118 controls a first subset of hydroelectric actuator HEADs (e.g., first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 and second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2) to power a first generator 136. During the second phase (second operating phase, 710), the intelligent power controller 118 controls the second subset of hydroelectric actuator HEADs (e.g., the third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3 and the fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4) to power the second generator 142. During the third phase (third operating phase, third stage), the intelligent power controller 118 controls both the first subset of hydroelectric actuator HEADs and the second subset of hydroelectric actuator HEADs (e.g., hydroelectric actuator HEADs 116-1, 116-2, 116-3, 116-4) in unison to drive the first generator 136 and the second generator 142. During the fourth phase (fourth operating phase, stage 4), the intelligent power controller 118 alternates between the first phase to the second phase (alternating between the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD subset and the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD subset), the first phase to the third phase (from the first hydroelectric actuator HEAD subset to all hydroelectric actuator HEADs), and / or the second phase to the third phase (from the second hydroelectric actuator HEAD subset to all hydroelectric actuator HEADs) to provide efficient energy generation while keeping a portion of the multi-hybrid generator system in a cooling cycle mode.The fourth phase allows for cooling of portions of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 by operating alternate portions of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 such that portions of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 experience intermittent downtime. That is, the hydraulic electric actuators HEAD are periodically operated, resulting in downtime during periods of non-operation. Allowing such components to cool increases the overall operating efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator system 100. During the third and fourth phases, the multi-hybrid generator system 100 powers on-demand and / or the batteries (102, 104, 106). The ability to charge the batteries and power on-demand / active loads allows the multi-hybrid generator system 100 to operate fully and efficiently for a significant amount of time, both during the day and at night, with or without solar energy input. During the fourth phase, the multi-hybrid generator system 100 operates with significantly reduced input power while still allowing for efficient generation, storage, and distribution of electricity. The intelligent power controller 118 distributes power through on and off cycles based on power storage and power usage capacity and need.

[0056] In some embodiments, the multi-hybrid generator system 100 operates the first gear set 134 and the second gear set 140 synchronously, independently, and / or alternatingly, which significantly improves the efficiency, effectiveness, and durability of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 by avoiding the continuous mechanical motion without rest periods of a conventional generator.

[0057] In one embodiment, each retraction spring 128 is made from a spring material as disclosed herein and is balanced at an operating angle to increase the effect of the piston 120 on the crankshaft 200. The hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116 is supported by the retraction springs 128. The retraction springs 128 are positioned inward of the pistons 120. In one embodiment, the operating angle is approximately 25 degrees (i.e., moving from top to bottom while angling inward relative to the piston axis). In one embodiment, the operating angle is preferably between 24.618 degrees and 26.973 degrees. The spring material and balance of the retraction springs 128 increase both the efficiency and lifespan of the pistons 120. The configuration of the retraction springs 128 and their location within the pistons 120 or piston chambers 130, as well as the overall system, increase the efficiency, effectiveness, and lifespan of the hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116. The spring 128 supports the upward / downward movement of the hydraulic actuator HEAD-piston cycle and the piston-hydraulic actuator HEAD cycle between retraction to the original starting position and discharge.

[0058] Importantly, the harvested power stored in the first battery bank 102 is utilized to provide adequate initial power to the hydroelectric actuator HEAD. The second battery bank 104 and the third battery bank 106 can also be utilized to simultaneously power both the hydroelectric actuator HEAD and a load (e.g., load 116) if desired. The second battery bank 104 and the third battery bank 106 can be switched back and forth depending on which portion of the battery system requires charging and as the intelligent power controller 118 determines is most appropriate to maintain overall generator system efficiency.

[0059] As will be appreciated, during operation of the hydroelectrically actuated HEADs, the components of the hydroelectrically actuated HEADs will heat up, at least in part, due to friction between moving parts. For example, if the temperature of a first hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set exceeds a threshold temperature, the intelligent power controller 118 switches from the first hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set to another hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set (e.g., a second hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set). By deactivating the first hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set, the first hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set can cool to an optimal operating temperature. Importantly, however, the hydroelectrically actuated HEAD system is capable of continuous operation, and alternating between the first and second hydroelectrically actuated HEAD sets can provide downtime cycles for each hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set while the second hydroelectrically actuated HEAD set maintains system operation. Due to the cooling capacity of the multiple hydroelectric actuators HEAD / hydroelectric actuators HEAD sets, the accumulated power (potential) of the multiple hydroelectric actuators HEAD / hydroelectric actuators HEAD sets (hydroelectric systems) will not overheat due to this interchange / interoperability function.

[0060] Importantly, as disclosed above, the multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs / hydroelectric actuator HEAD sets also work together to balance the upward / downward movement of the bicycle pedals on the bicycle. The multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs / hydroelectric actuator HEAD sets drive mechanical energy through the pistons, which then transfer the mechanical energy to the piston rods toward the crankshaft. The upstroke / downstroke forces generated by the multiple hydroelectric actuator HEADs / hydroelectric actuator HEAD sets are supported by specially designed retraction springs 128 located inside the pistons for maximum and optimal efficiency, effectiveness, and longevity. These springs support the upward / downward movement during the retraction / discharge cycle from the hydroelectric actuator HEAD to the piston (discharge) and from the piston to the hydroelectric actuator HEAD (retraction) to and from the original starting position.

[0061] As disclosed above, an important aspect of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 is the ability of the multiple hydroelectric actuator HEAD / hydroelectric actuator HEAD sets to operate as optimally and efficiently as possible in a staged, on / off cycle arrangement (cooling cycle). The multiple stages include a first stage (first operating stage) in which a first hydroelectric actuator HEAD subset (e.g., first hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-1 and second hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-2) is used to power a first gear set to power a first generator 136. The multiple stages include a second stage (second operating stage) in which a second hydroelectric actuator HEAD subset (e.g., third hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-3 and fourth hydroelectric actuator HEAD 116-4) is used to power a second gear set to power a second generator 142. The stages include a third stage (third operating stage) in which the first and second hydroelectric actuator HEAD subsets operate in unison (synchronously) to drive mechanical power to both the first and second gearboxes to drive both the first and second generators 136, 142. The stages include a fourth stage (fourth operating stage) in which the SIR unit, in cooperation with the intelligent power controller 118, alternates between the stages from the first to the second stage, from the first to the third stage, and / or from the second to the third stage to efficiently operate while keeping the remainder of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 in a cool-down cycle mode (off-cycle). The combination of the hydroelectric actuator HEADs, retraction springs, counterweights, and gear system, along with the staged controlled actuation, results in improved efficiency performance of 76% to 85%.

[0062] The fourth stage provides an improvement in the mechanical efficiency of the system by allowing the system to "cool" itself. If a portion of the system is operating in an "off-cycle" mode, this allows this portion of the system to rest. The portion of the system operating "on-cycle" can continue to operate efficiently, avoiding potential overheating.

[0063] One particular advantage provided by the third stage is the ability of the multi-hybrid generator system 100 to provide needed power on demand and / or synchronously or alternatively power batteries for later use. The electromechanical arrangement of the fourth stage significantly improves power generation and storage efficiency while reducing the demand for input power (photovoltaic PV panels). Furthermore, operation in a fourth stage or SIR unit-coupled operating mode allows generated power to be supplied to loads while simultaneously charging different battery banks. This effect allows the multi-hybrid generator system 100 to operate at reduced input power (reduced amount of photovoltaic PV panels). Furthermore, the ability to charge batteries and power on-demand / active loads (116) makes the multi-hybrid generator system 100 efficient in that it can run day or night with or without solar energy input for a significant period of time before requiring solar input (power start).

[0064] In this regard, the SIR units (114-1, 114-2, 114-3, 114-4) located between the three battery banks (102, 104, 106) function as monitoring sensors and routers that measure the battery banks' ability to store additional power and / or route power for consumption or storage. Another primary function of the SIR units between the battery banks is to increase overall system efficiency by alternately allowing the battery banks to receive power for charging from their own unit generators or other unit generators. The SIR units also serve as the primary signal detection point for incoming power generation and route said power throughout the multi-hybrid generator system 100.

[0065] In a further embodiment, there may be an initial power supply using interchangeable power source energy stored in a first battery bank of the plurality of battery banks according to the first and second stages of the series of power harvesting stages, as detailed above. Further, a step of distributing (distributing) the electrical energy generated and supplied by the first and second generators, respectively, to the second and third battery banks for storage and powering at least one electrical load under the control of the intelligent power controller may be added. Further, in a third stage of the series of power harvesting stages, there may be a step 714 of driving mechanical power to the first and second crankshafts. During the third stage of the series of power harvesting stages, the first and second stages of the power harvesting stages operate synchronously. Further, in a fourth stage of the series of power harvesting stages, there may be a step 716 of alternating between any two of the four power harvesting stages. Specifically, alternating between cycles having three battery banks allows the multi-hybrid generator system 100 to operate smoothly and allows for cooling cycles without interfering with the operation of the multi-hybrid generator system 100.

[0066] In one embodiment, in addition to generating power in the manner described above to meet electrical demand or load, the multi-hybrid generator MHPG (multi-hybrid power generation) system 100 described herein is also enabled to provide dedicated, efficient, and sustainable power for use in the hydrogen extraction and power generation process. FIG. 9 illustrates a power generation and storage system 1000. The power generation and storage system 1000 includes the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 and a linked hydro-hydrogen-electric power generation (Hydro-Hydrogen-Electric) system 1010 (also referred to as a multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen power generation (MHHPG) system 1010). The hydro-hydrogen-electric power generation system 1010 is enabled to utilize the power generation and storage system 1000 as a power source for performing the hydrogen extraction and power generation process in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] The hydro-hydrogen-electric power generation system 1010 is configured to extract hydrogen from the atmosphere for storage and / or use in power generation. In one embodiment, the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-electric MHHPG system 1010 includes an atmospheric moisture extractor 1012 configured to extract moisture (i.e., water) from the ambient air surrounding the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-electric MHHPG system 1010 as a subsystem. The multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-electric MHHPG system 1010 further includes a first storage device such as a storage tank 1014 configured to store the extracted moisture / water, a hydrogen electrolyzer (1016) that receives the moisture and produces hydrogen through a chemical process such as electrolysis, a second storage device such as a high-pressure tank 1018 configured to store the hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer 1016, a hydrogen turbine generator system 1020 that produces electrical power using the produced hydrogen as a fuel source, and a controller 1022. While FIG. 9 shows a dedicated controller 1022 for the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-electric MHHPG system 1010, it is contemplated that a single master controller such as controller 118 may be utilized to control the operation of both the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 and the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-electric MHHPG system 1010 without departing from the broader aspects of the present invention. In either embodiment, the controller 1022 (or controller 118, as the case may be) is configured to control the storage of water in the first tank 1014 and the storage of hydrogen in the second tank 1018, as well as the supply of hydrogen to the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020 for future and / or on-demand use, as described in more detail below. As indicated above, the power generation and storage system 1000 also includes a supply of electrical power used by the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-power MHHPG system 1010 as a subsystem.As shown in FIG. 9, in an embodiment, the supply of electrical power may be provided by a multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100, although other power sources may also be employed.

[0068] In an embodiment, the atmospheric moisture extraction device 1012 may be any type of moisture extraction device or atmospheric moisture generation device known in the art, such as, for example, condensation, hydrography, wet desiccant, solid desiccant, or other systems, or combinations of the above. In an embodiment, the electrolyzer 1016 may be any type of system or device known in the art that utilizes electricity to separate (split) water into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis. For example, the electrolyzer 1016 may be a polymer electrolyte membrane electrolyzer, an alkaline electrolyzer, or a solid oxide electrolyzer, although the invention is not intended to be so limited in this respect. In an embodiment, the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020 may be any type of hydrogen-fueled gas turbine known in the art.

[0069] Thus, the power generation and storage system 1000 of the present invention is enabled to operate in atmospheric moisture extraction-electrolysis (AMEE) mode as needed to extract moisture from the atmosphere using the atmospheric moisture extractor 1012 under power from the connected multi-hybrid generator system 100 and / or power stored in one or more of the first, second, and third battery banks 102, 104, and 106. In one embodiment, the primary power input / source to the multi-hybrid generator system 100 may be solar energy. In this case, via the artificial intelligence control central processing unit 1022, the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-power MHHPG system 1010 can automatically switch from solar mode (daytime) to night mode (solar off cycle), select between extracting moisture from the air or drawing stored water as a fuel source, and further draw water from the air conditioning control HVAC system (if available), and be replaceable / programmable as needed.

[0070] With further reference to FIG. 9 , the water extracted from the air by the atmospheric moisture extraction system 1012 and stored in the storage system 1014 can be utilized in a variety of ways. For example, the extracted water can be stored in the storage system 1014 for later use as a fuel source (e.g., to an electrolyzer 1016 for use in generating hydrogen). The water can also be stored in the storage tank 1014 and filtered, such as by a filtration system 1024, to produce potable water 1026. The extracted water can also be stored for various uses beneficial to a user, such as fire suppression systems or irrigation. Other end uses are also contemplated. In an embodiment, the storage system 1014 can be fluidly connected to an HVAC system 1028 of a building, such as the house 116 or other structure. In an embodiment, the storage system 1014 receives and stores runoff (condensate) from the HVAC system 1028 for later use. In this way, the storage tank 1014 can be replenished with water even when the atmospheric moisture extractor 1012 is not in use.

[0071] Importantly, downstream uses of the water stored in the storage device 1014 are enabled to be controlled by the controller 1022 according to algorithms stored in memory. For example, in one embodiment, the controller 1022 is configured to prioritize uses of the water stored in the storage device 1014 based on recipient / application needs (e.g., based on various demands on the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-power MHHPG system 1010). In one embodiment, the controller 1022 is enabled to prioritize use of water to produce hydrogen (i.e., use of the electrolyzer 1016) over use as drinking / potable water 1026, irrigation, etc. In an embodiment, this may be a programmable feature, and this hierarchical control may be configured and executed manually or automatically. In an embodiment, the controller 1022 utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to switch between generating electricity using the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100, operating the atmospheric moisture extractor 1012 to produce water, operating the electrolyzer 1016 to produce hydrogen, and / or operating the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020 to generate electricity for use and / or storage.

[0072] As described above, in the hydrogen production mode of operation, extracted water (either directly from the extraction device 1012 or from the storage tank 1014) is processed through an electrolysis-style mechanism (hydrogen electrolyzer 1016) or any mechanism that uses electricity to split up hydrogen and oxygen molecules. A post-electrolysis algorithm allows usable hydrogen fuel to be stored in the storage device 1018. The stored hydrogen can be used as a fuel source for the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020 and can be used to generate electricity by mechanically rotating / driving the generator of the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020. The generated electricity can then be stored in one of the battery banks, such as the third battery bank 106, and used to satisfy an electrical load. In an embodiment, the third battery bank 106 can be electrically connected to a building, such as the house 116, to meet its electrical needs and / or can be selectively connected to an electric vehicle 1030 to charge it. In one embodiment, the generated electricity can be supplied to the power grid via a direct connection between the power grid and the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020 or via a connection between the third battery bank 106 and the power grid. The hydrogen electric generator (HEG, 1020) can obtain larger amounts of power for longer periods of time, with or without solar power, by relaying power storage between the battery and hydrogen storage. This "dual storage" system allows the power storage redundancy cycle to operate efficiently for longer periods of time without initial power input, such as solar or wind power.

[0073] In addition to using hydrogen from the storage tank 1018 as fuel for the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020, it is also possible to alternatively or additionally use hydrogen from the storage tank 1018 to fill the hydrogen fuel tank of a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) 1032. As will be appreciated, by storing produced hydrogen in the storage tank 1018, the hydrogen is made available on demand to generate electricity via the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020 or for use as fuel for the fuel cell electric vehicle 1032.

[0074] A key advantage of the power generation and storage system 1000 is that it allows for multiple power inputs, multiple power storage, and multiple AI programmable options. This directly supports system “cooling,” which is unique to any hydraulic system using a high-pressure input, thereby improving the overall operating efficiency and lifespan of the power generation and storage system 1000. In particular, the power generation and storage system 1000 can be programmed to function in “hydrogen mode,” generating power from hydrogen stored in the storage tank 1018 rather than directly from the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100. This provides additional cooling off-cycle time for the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100. Thus, under the control of the controller 1022 and / or the controller 118, the power generation and storage system 1000 is enabled to provide constant or near-constant power generation while cycling power from the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 and / or power from the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020, which uses stored hydrogen as fuel.

[0075] In embodiments, the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-generated MHHPG system 1010 allows the ability to set the hydrogen capacity when the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-generated MHHPG system 1010 is not in use. In some embodiments, the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-generated MHHPG system 1010 and / or the controller 1022 are programmable to accommodate additional cooling-off cycle times for the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100. When the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-generated MHHPG system 1010 is operating, the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 may revert to an extended cooling cycle to increase the hydrogen reserve and / or efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100. In some embodiments, this extended cooling cycle is programmed for a desired water storage amount and / or hydrogen capacity (e.g., 1 gallon (e.g., approximately 3.78 liters), 5 gallons (e.g., approximately 18.9 liters), 10 gallons (e.g., approximately 37.8 liters), etc.).

[0076] The power and storage system 1000 of the present invention has the ability to store potential energy in one of two forms: batteries and hydrogen. In particular, electricity generated by the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 or multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-powered MHHPG system 1010 can be stored in any of the first, second, or third battery banks 102, 104, 106 for later use or distribution. Furthermore, hydrogen generated / extracted using the electrolyzer 1016 can also serve as a form of potential energy, as it can be used as desired to generate electricity using the hydrogen turbine generator system 1020. A third storage system is potential kinetic power in the hydraulics used in the hydroelectric actuator HEAD of the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100. Such triple storage systems significantly improve the efficiency of the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100, the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-hydro-HPG system 1010, and the power-storage system 1000 as a whole from multiple inputs (e.g., solar, wind, geothermal) to hydro-to-electricity (multi-hybrid generator MHPG) and hydro-to-hydrogen-to-electricity (multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-hydro-HPG). In particular, the power-storage system 1000 of the present invention provides three distinct mechanisms for power generation / storage: using the hydroelectrically actuated heads (116-1, 116-2, 116-3, 116-4) and generators (136, 142); using battery banks (102, 104, 106); and using hydrogen. This improves the overall efficiency, effectiveness, and lifespan of the power-storage system 1000.

[0077] In this regard, the required input voltage for the atmospheric moisture extraction-electrolysis cycle using the atmospheric moisture extractor (extractor) 1012 and electrolyzer 1016 is relatively low compared to the power generated from the first system (multi-hybrid generator MHPG 100). This significantly improves the efficiency and lifespan of both the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 and the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-hydro-MHHPG system 1010 by providing multiple means of generating and storing power, rather than specifically using the hydroelectric actuator HEAD in the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 or only hydrogen gas in the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-hydro-MHHPG system 1010. This allows for the use of increased or extended cool-down / rest cycles, while improving the overall efficiency of the power generation and storage system 1000. In one embodiment, the input voltage requirements of the atmospheric moisture extraction-electrolysis cycle using the atmospheric moisture extraction device 1012 and electrolyzer 1016 are so low that charging the battery banks from the hydroelectric actuator HEAD of the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 allows this cycle to run very efficiently (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) without depleting the first, second, and third battery banks 102, 104, and 106. That is, even if the stored power in the first, second, and third battery banks 102, 104, and 106 is depleted, operation of the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 and its hydroelectric actuator HEAD allows it to be easily replenished despite fluctuations in the input energy (e.g., solar, wind, etc.).

[0078] Thus, under the control of a controller, the power generation and storage system 1000 of the present invention provides the capability to generate, store, and distribute both electricity and / or hydrogen as desired depending on consumer needs, system conditions, efficiency considerations, or ambient conditions (wind speed, time of day, etc.) In addition to providing a reliable source of power to a structure, grid, or other application, the power generation and storage system 1000 also provides the capability to charge electric vehicles (EVs) or fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) in the manner disclosed above.

[0079] For comparison, the industry benchmark for high-efficiency electrolyzers for hydrogen production and utilization is 50 kWh / kg. The generator system-electrolyzer of the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-powered MHHPG system 1010 operates at a system efficiency of over 85% with available redundant auxiliary power and / or stored power for use in the electrolysis stage / power production. In relation to the above, the efficiency of a hydrogen electrolyzer consuming 50 kilowatts of power to produce one kilogram of hydrogen is 39.4 kilowatt-hours / kilogram divided by 50 kilowatt-hours / kilogram, which is approximately 79% system efficiency. However, the multi-hybrid generator-MHPG-multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen-powered MHHPG system (1000) of the present invention is much more efficient due to the vast supply of reliable and stable input power from the multi-hybrid generator-MHPG system 100. With current technology, electrolysis typically produces hydrogen at an efficiency of approximately 75 percent. Therefore, 52.5 kWh is required to produce one kilogram of pure hydrogen fuel, which has approximately 39.4 kWh of energy. However, by using the electricity supplied from the multi-hybrid generator MHPG system 100 in the multi-hybrid hydro-oxygen power generation MHHPG system 1010, the electrolysis efficiency can be improved to 95%, so that only 41.5 kWh of electricity is required to produce 1 kilogram of hydrogen fuel.

[0080] In some embodiments, the method or methods described above may be performed or embodied by a computing system including a tangible computer-readable storage medium. The tangible computer-readable storage medium, also referred to herein as a storage machine, holds machine-readable instructions executable by a logic machine (i.e., a processor or programmable control device) to provide, implement, execute, and / or perform the methods, processes, and / or tasks described above. When such methods and processes are performed, the state of the storage machine may be changed to hold different data. For example, the storage machine may include memory devices such as various hard disk drives, CDs, or DVD devices. The logic machine may execute the machine-readable instructions via one or more physical information and / or logical processing devices. For example, the logic machine may be configured to execute instructions that perform the tasks of a computer program. The logic machine may include one or more processors that execute the machine-readable instructions. The computing system may also include a graphical user interface (GUI) or a display subsystem for displaying any visual elements of the methods or processes described above. For example, a display subsystem, a storage machine, and a logic machine may be integrated such that the above-described methods are performed when visual elements of the disclosed systems and / or methods are displayed on a display screen for user consumption. The computing system may include an input subsystem for receiving user input. The input subsystem may be configured to connect to and receive input from devices such as a mouse, keyboard, or gaming controller. For example, the user input may indicate a request for the computing system to display any of the information described above, or the user input may indicate a request for a particular task to be performed by the computing system, such as a request to update or modify existing stored information for processing. The communication subsystem may enable the above-described methods to be performed or provided over a computer network.For example, the communications subsystem may be configured to enable the computing system to communicate with multiple personal computing devices. The communications subsystem may include wired and / or wireless communications devices to facilitate network communications. The described methods or processes may be performed, provided, or implemented to a user or one or more computing devices via a computer program product, such as via an application programming interface (API).

[0081] In one embodiment, a multi-hybrid power generation system includes at least one battery configured to receive and store energy from a power source, a first device in electrical communication with the at least one battery configured to convert electrical energy from the at least one battery into mechanical energy, and a first generator operably connected to the first device, the first generator configured to convert mechanical energy generated by the first device into electrical energy. The multi-hybrid power generation system also includes a first energy storage device configured to store electrical energy generated by the first generator, and a controller configured to control energy monitoring, energy generation, energy distribution, and energy storage among the at least one battery, the first device, the first energy storage device, and an electrical load. In an embodiment, the multi-hybrid power generation system further includes a second device configured to generate mechanical energy, and a second generator operably connected to the second device, the second generator configured to convert mechanical energy generated by the second device into electrical energy. In one embodiment, the second device is in electrical communication with the at least one battery and is configured to convert electrical energy from the at least one battery into mechanical energy. In one embodiment, during a first operating phase, the controller controls the first device to power the first generator. During a second operating phase, the controller controls the first device to power the second generator. During a third operating phase, the controller controls both the first and second devices in unison to power the first and second generators. During a fourth operating phase, the controller alternates from the first operating phase to the second operating phase, from the first operating phase to the third operating phase, and / or from the second operating phase to the third operating phase to provide efficient energy generation and maintain a portion of the multi-hybrid power generation system in a cooling mode. In an embodiment, the first device is a hydroelectrically actuated device (HEAD).The hydroelectric actuator includes a piston disposed within the hydraulic chamber and a piston rod coupled to the piston. The piston rod is operably coupled to a crankshaft operably coupled to the first generator. In one embodiment, the hydroelectric actuator includes a retraction spring that assists movement of the piston within the hydraulic chamber. In an embodiment, the controller is configured to operate the system in a first operating mode in which the first device provides power to the first generator while the second device is static to effect cooling of the second device, and a second operating mode in which the second device provides power to the second generator while the first device is static to effect cooling of the first device. In an embodiment, the controller is configured to alternate between the first operating mode and the second operating mode depending on a temperature of at least one of the first device and the second device. In an embodiment, the system further includes a secondary power generation system configured to utilize electrical energy to extract water from ambient air and produce hydrogen from the extracted water by electrolysis. In one embodiment, the secondary power generation system includes an extractor configured to extract water from ambient air, a first tank configured to store the water, an electrolyzer configured to receive the water and produce hydrogen by electrolysis, a second tank configured to store the hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer, and a generator system configured to generate electrical power from the hydrogen.

[0082] In another embodiment of the present invention, a power generation system includes an extractor configured to extract moisture from ambient air surrounding the system, a first tank configured to store the moisture, an electrolyzer configured to receive the moisture and perform a chemical process to produce hydrogen, a second tank configured to store hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer, a generator system configured to generate electrical power from the hydrogen, and a controller configured to control operation of the extractor and the electrolyzer. In one embodiment, the system further includes a primary power source configured to provide power to the extractor and / or the electrolyzer. The controller utilizes artificial intelligence to switch between the primary power input and at least one of the extractor, the electrolyzer, and the generator system. In an embodiment, the moisture is water. The power generation system further includes a filtration system that filters the water to produce potable water. In an embodiment, the first tank is fluidly connected to a building's HVAC system and configured to receive condensation from the HVAC system. In an embodiment, the system further includes at least one battery configured to store electrical power produced by the generator system. The at least one battery is configured to supply the building's energy needs and charge the electric vehicle. In embodiments, the controller is configured to control the storage of water in the first tank and hydrogen in the second tank, and to control the supply of hydrogen to the generator for future and / or on-demand use. In embodiments, the controller is configured to switch between a primary power input and at least one of the extractor, the electrolyzer, and the generator system.

[0083] In yet another embodiment, a multi-hybrid power generation system includes a primary power input configured to generate electricity, an extractor configured to extract water, a first tank configured to store water, an electrolyzer configured to receive water and produce hydrogen, a second tank configured to store hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer, a generator system configured to generate electrical power from the hydrogen, and a controller configured to control the storage of water in the first and second tanks and to supply hydrogen to the generator. The controller is configured to switch between the primary power input and at least one of the extractor, the electrolyzer, and the generator system. In one embodiment, the water is water, and the multi-hybrid power generation system further includes a first subsystem configured to store the received water for future use as a fuel source, a second subsystem configured to filter the received water into potable water and store the potable water for future use, a third subsystem configured to store the received water for other uses, and a fourth subsystem configured to reuse runoff water from an air conditioning system. In one embodiment, the primary power input comprises at least one hydroelectrically actuated device (HEAD) configured to drive a generator to generate electrical power used by the extractor and electrolyzer.

[0084] The preferred embodiment of the invention described is susceptible to many modifications, variations, and changes in detail. Accordingly, it is intended that all matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying drawings be interpreted in an illustrative and not a limiting sense. The scope of the invention should therefore be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A power generation system, the power generation system comprising:

1. A multi-hybrid power generation subsystem, the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem comprising: at least one hydroelectrically actuated device (HEAD) configured to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy; the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem comprising: at least one generator configured to receive the mechanical energy from at least one HEAD and reconvert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy; a multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem operatively connected to the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem, the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem configured to receive the reconverted electrical energy from the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem to drive a hydrogen extraction and hydrogen-based power generation process, the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem comprising: an extractor configured to extract moisture from ambient air; a first tank configured to store the water; an electrolyzer configured to receive the water and perform a chemical process to produce hydrogen; a second tank configured to store the hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer; a hydrogen generator configured to generate electrical power from the hydrogen; the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem comprising: a controller operatively connected to the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem and the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem, the controller configured to coordinate operation of each of the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem and the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem to manage power routing and operating modes to maintain system efficiency and thermal balance; A power generation system comprising:

2. The controller is configured to manage and route power between the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem and the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem using artificial intelligence. The power generation system according to claim 1 .

3. The moisture is water, The power generation system further includes a filtration system for filtering the water to produce potable water. The power generation system according to claim 1 .

4. the first tank is fluidly connected to a building's HVAC system and configured to receive condensation from the HVAC system. The power generation system according to claim 3 .

5. the power generation system further comprises at least one battery configured to store electrical power generated by the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem; at least one of the batteries is configured to supply the energy needs of the building and to charge an electric vehicle; The power generation system according to claim 1 .

6. the controller is configured to control the storage of the water in the first tank and the hydrogen in the second tank, and to control the supply of the hydrogen to the hydrogen generator for future and / or on-demand use. The power generation system according to claim 1 .

7. the controller is configured to manage and route power between the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem and at least one of the extraction device, the electrolyzer, and the hydrogen generator in the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem; The power generation system according to claim 6.

8. A power generation system, comprising:

1. A multi-hybrid power generation subsystem, the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem comprising: at least one hydroelectrically actuated device (HEAD) configured to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy; at least one generator configured to receive the mechanical energy from the at least one HEAD and reconvert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy; the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem comprising: a multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem operatively connected to the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem, the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem configured to receive the reconverted electrical energy from the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem to drive a hydrogen extraction and hydrogen-based power generation process, the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem comprising: an extractor configured to extract moisture; a first tank configured to store the water; an electrolyzer configured to receive the water and produce hydrogen; a second tank configured to store the hydrogen produced by the electrolyzer; a hydrogen generator configured to generate electrical power from the hydrogen; and a controller configured to control the storage of the water in the first tank and the second tank and to supply the hydrogen to the hydrogen generator; With the multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem, the controller operatively connected to the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem and configured to manage and route power between the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem and at least one of the extraction device, the electrolyzer, and the hydrogen generator; Equipped with Power generation system.

9. The moisture is water, The multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem further comprises: a first water storage subsystem configured to store the received water for future use as a fuel source; a filtration subsystem configured to filter the received water into potable water and store the potable water for future use; a second water storage subsystem configured to store the received water for other uses; a water reclamation subsystem configured to reuse runoff water from the air conditioning system; Equipped with The power generation system according to claim 8.

10. the electrical energy generated by at least one generator of the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem is used by the extraction device and the electrolyzer; The power generation system according to claim 8.

11. The power generation system comprises: at least one battery configured to receive and store energy from a power source; The multi-hybrid power generation subsystem comprises: the HEAD, a first HEAD in electrical communication with the at least one battery, the first HEAD configured to convert electrical energy from the at least one battery into mechanical energy; the generator: a first generator operably connected to the first HEAD, the first generator configured to convert mechanical energy generated by the first HEAD into electrical energy; a first energy storage device configured to store electrical energy generated by the first generator; It is equipped with the controller is configured to control energy monitoring, energy generation, energy distribution, and energy storage among at least one of the battery, the first HEAD, the first energy storage device, and an electrical load; The power generation system according to claim 1 .

12. the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem further comprising: a second HEAD configured to generate mechanical energy; a second generator operably connected to the second HEAD, the second generator configured to convert mechanical energy generated by the second HEAD into electrical energy; and The power generation system of claim 11 , comprising:

13. the second HEAD is in electrical communication with the at least one battery and is configured to convert electrical energy from the at least one battery into mechanical energy. The power generation system according to claim 12.

14. In a first operating stage, the controller controls the first HEAD to supply power to the first generator; In a second operating stage, the controller controls the first HEAD to supply power to the second generator; In a third operating stage, the controller integrally controls both the first HEAD and the second HEAD to supply power to the first generator and the second generator; and in a fourth operating phase, the controller alternates between operating from the first operating phase to the second operating phase, from the first operating phase to the third operating phase, and / or from the second operating phase to the third operating phase to provide efficient energy generation while maintaining a portion of the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem in a cooling mode. The power generation system according to claim 13.

15. The first HEAD has a piston disposed in a hydraulic chamber and a piston rod connected to the piston, the piston rod is operably connected to a crankshaft that is operably connected to the first generator; The power generation system according to claim 11.

16. The first HEAD includes a retraction spring that assists the movement of the piston within the hydraulic pressure chamber. The power generation system according to claim 15.

17. The controller a first operating mode in which the first HEAD provides power to the first generator while the second HEAD is stationary to allow effective cooling of the second HEAD; and a second operating mode in which the second HEAD supplies power to the second generator while the first HEAD is stationary to allow effective cooling of the first HEAD; and configured to operate the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem with The power generation system according to claim 12.

18. the controller is configured to alternate between the first operating mode and the second operating mode depending on a temperature of at least one of the first HEAD and the second HEAD. The power generation system according to claim 17.

19. The multi-hybrid hydrogen power generation subsystem, configured to utilize electrical energy from the multi-hybrid power generation subsystem to extract water from ambient air and produce hydrogen from the extracted water by electrolysis. The power generation system according to claim 11.

20. The extraction device is configured to extract the water from the ambient air; The first tank is configured to store the water, the electrolyzer is configured to receive the water and produce the hydrogen by electrolysis; 20. The power generation system of claim 19.

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