A fluid movement system and a system for use under a surface of a body of water

Abstract

A Fluid Movement System and a System for Use Under a Surface of a Body of Water A fluid movement system 10 having a first and second reservoir 12b, a first and second container 14b, a first and second conduit 16a, 16b arranged between the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b and a first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b respectively fluidly communicated with the first and second containers 14a, 14b to evacuate water from the first and second containers 14a, 14b In use, when water is evacuated from the containers, the water flows into the conduits and drives a turbine.

Description

[0001] A Fluid Movement System and a System for Use Under a Surface of a Body of Water

[0002] The present invention relates to a fluid movement system and a system for use under a surface of a body of water.

[0003] Hydroelectric power stations generate renewable electricity through the movement of water from a reservoir or river flowing through a turbine. The turbine, when moved, generates electricity to be used by homes and businesses.

[0004] The water, which is to flow through the turbine, is required to travel downwards under gravity, such that there is a transfer from gravitational potential energy to kinetic energy, and then to electrical energy, as the water flows through the turbine.

[0005] A continuous source of water is required to drive the turbine at a large enough rate to generate a sufficient amount of electricity, and thus the water source needs to be from a running river or a reservoir, such as that created by a dam. Some businesses and household who are situated far away from a water source may not be able to benefit from the renewable electricity generated by the hydroelectric power stations and may instead have to utilise electricity generated from fossil fuels or other sources of electricity.

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to reduce or substantially obviate the aforementioned problems.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a fluid movement system comprising: a first reservoir and a second reservoir, each of the first and second reservoirs having an in use upper portion and an in use lower portion; a first container for containing water and / or air, the first container having a first-container fluid inlet, and a first-container fluid outlet communicated with the lower portion of the first reservoir, the first-container fluid outlet being closeable by a first-container valve; a second container for containing water and / or air, the second container having a second- container fluid inlet, and a second-container fluid outlet communicated with the lower portion of the second reservoir, the second-container fluid outlet being closeable by a second-container valve; a first conduit arranged between the upper portion of the first reservoir and the second-container fluid inlet, the first conduit having a first turbine between the upper portion of the first reservoir and the second -container fluid inlet; a second conduit arranged between the upper portion of the second reservoir and the first-container fluid inlet, the second conduit having a second turbine between the upper portion of the second reservoir and the first-container fluid inlet; a first fluid moving means fluidly communicated with the first container, the first fluid moving means for evacuating water from the first container and through the first -container fluid outlet; and a second fluid moving means fluidly communicated with the second container, the second fluid moving means for evacuating water from the second container and through the second-container fluid outlet, the system configured so that in use when water is evacuated from the first container, the water in the first reservoir flows into the first conduit and drives the first turbine, and when water is evacuated from the second container, the water in the second reservoir flows into the second conduit and drives the second turbine.

[0008] The system allows for the generation of hydroelectric power without the requirement for a flowing water source, such as a river. As such, the system can be used in many different locations, even those far from a flowing water source, providing hydro-electric power for commercial, domestic, and industrial use.

[0009] Water is moved from the upper portion of the first reservoir to the lower portion of the second reservoir, and from the upper portion of the second reservoir to the lower portion of the first reservoir. The water falls via the conduits and so gravitational potential energy is converted to kinetic energy, and thereafter to electrical energy via the turbines.

[0010] The water flows into the empty, or air-filled, first and second containers, which are thereby filled with water. The first and second containers are then evacuated of water, by the fluid moving means. The water from the first and second containers flows into, and replenishes, the first and second reservoirs respectively. This allows for the first and second reservoirs to dispense further water, to the now empty first and second containers. The process can repeat cyclically in this manner. The movement of the water from the first and second reservoirs to the second and first containers, can occur simultaneously.

[0011] Preferably, the first and second fluid moving means may comprise a first air-receiving container and a second air-receiving container respectively, each of the first and second air-receiving containers for receiving pressurised air, the first air-receiving container and the second air-receiving container fluidly communicated with the first container and the second container respectively so that in use water is evacuated from the first and second containers when pressurised air is released into the first and second containers from the first and second air-receiving containers respectively. Advantageously, each of the first and second air-receiving containers may have an exhaust valve for releasing excess pressurized air. The first and second air-receiving containers may therefore have an air inlet, and an air exhaust. This may allow for a vacuum-like arrangement to be created, to draw air into the first and second airreceiving containers.

[0012] Beneficially, the first and second fluid moving means may further comprise a heating means for heating the air received in the first air-receiving container and the second air-receiving container. The heating means allows for the air in the air-receiving containers to be heated, and thereby brought to a higher pressure. The high-pressure air can then be discharged into the first and second containers, via means of an airflow conduit, to evacuate them of water. To permit the air in the air-receiving containers to be pressurised, the air-receiving containers may be required to be sealable. As such, there may be an openable and closeable valve in each of the air-flow conduits, along with in any other inlets or outlets of the air-receiving containers.

[0013] Optionally, the heating means may comprise a heated-fluid receiving chamber at or adjacent to each of the first air-receiving container and the second air-receiving container for receiving heated fluid for heating the air therein.

[0014] In a preferable embodiment, the heated-fluid receiving chambers may be fluidly communicated with a boiler for providing heated fluid. The boiler may be powered by hydrogen fuel, for example. The hydrogen, once combusted, may then form water vapour which can be condensed and redirected into the first and / or second reservoirs.

[0015] Preferably, the first and second air-receiving containers may have a first fan and a second fan for directing air into each of the first and second air-receiving containers respectively. The fans allow for the first and second air-receiving containers to receive a supply of air, which may be pressurised.

[0016] Beneficially, the first and second fans may be mechanically linked to the first and second turbines respectively, such that when the first and second turbines move, the respective fan is driven.

[0017] Advantageously, the first and second conduits comprise a first-conduit valve and second-conduit valve respectively for controlling the flow of water from the first and second reservoirs respectively, the first-conduit valve located between the upper portion of the first reservoir and the lower portion of the second reservoir, and the second-conduit valve located between the upper portion of the second reservoir and the lower portion of the first reservoir.

[0018] Beneficially, the fluid movement system may further comprise an electrolysis apparatus communicated with the first reservoir and / or second reservoir for generating hydrogen and oxygen from water. As such, hydrogen and oxygen can be produced from the water in the reservoirs. The hydrogen may be, for example, used to power the boiler and thereby heat the air-receiving containers. Alternatively, the hydrogen may be infused into the water in each of the water-receiving containers to provide lower density water. The electrolysis arrangement may be powered by the electricity generated by the turbines.

[0019] Optionally, the fluid movement system may further comprise a hydrogen fuel cell for receiving hydrogen and oxygen from the electrolysis apparatus and generating electricity and heat therefrom. The electricity generated by the fuel cell may be exported to domestic, commercial, or industrial premises. The heat may be used to heat the air in the air-receiving containers.

[0020] Additionally, each of the first and second containers may have a container-exhaust for exhausting excess air from each of the first and second containers. Such an exhaust may allow for excess air to be released from the system, and / or may allow for the creation of a vacuum effect inside the container. The container exhaust may be openable and closeable by a valve, to prevent or limit the unintended exhaust of water therethrough.

[0021] Preferably, the first and second conduits may each further comprise a port for introducing air into the first and second conduits. This may allow for air to mix with the water when filling the containers. As such, the water in the containers may be at lower density, which can allow for the water to be more easily evacuated via the fluid outlets.

[0022] Advantageously, the first container may be within the lower portion of the first reservoir and the second container may be within the lower portion of the second reservoir. Such a feature provides a more compact arrangement. However, it will be appreciated that the first and second containers may be external to the reservoirs and communicated therewith.

[0023] Optionally, the system may further comprise solar panels for providing power to the system. Solar panels may allow for further electrical power to be generated, in the instance that there is insufficient energy generated by the turbines to power the electrolysis apparatus, fluid moving means, and be exported for domestic, commercial, or industrial use.

[0024] Preferably, the first and second-container valves may be gate latches. A gate latch provides an effective way of expelling water from the containers. Gate latches are used in the buoyancy tanks of submarines.

[0025] Optionally, the fluid movement system is for use under a surface of a body of water. The water used in the system advantageously does not need to be replenished cyclically and the water is instead continuously available from the surrounding sea, lake or river.

[0026] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a system for use under a surface of a body of water, the system comprising: a container for containing air and / or water, the container having a water inlet closeable by a water-inlet valve for selectively permitting water to enter the container, and a water outlet closeable by a water-outlet valve; a turbine for being driven by water entering the water inlet; a fluid moving means for evacuating water from the container through the water outlet; and an air conduit having an inlet for being positioned above a surface of the body of water, the air conduit being fluidly communicated to the container for supplying air to the container, so that in use when water enters the container via the inlet valve, the turbine is driven, and when the fluid moving means evacuates water from the container, air is forced into the container via the air conduit.

[0027] Such a system may be positioned under a body of water, such as the sea. When water enters the air-filled container, electrical energy can be generated via the turbine. Air can then be pumped into the water-filled container, using the fluid moving means and via the air conduit, to expel the water from the water-filled container. This allows for the container to be refilled with water, to provide further hydroelectric energy.

[0028] Preferably, the container may comprise an anchoring means for preventing the container from floating to the surface of a body of water.

[0029] Beneficially, the air conduit may comprise a buoyancy means for maintaining the inlet above the surface of the body of water. As such, even in rough sea conditions, the air conduit remains above the surface of the water.

[0030] Additionally, the system may further comprise a further container for containing water. Preferably, the system may further comprise a conduit fluidly communicable with the further container and the container. The further container and the conduit, which may both be received under the surface of the body of water, may act as a filter to prevent or limit the ingress of sea animals into the container and turbine.

[0031] Preferably, the fluid moving means comprises an air-receiving container for receiving pressurised air, the air-receiving container being fluidly communicated with the container so that in use water is evacuated from the container when pressurised air is released into the container from the air-receiving container. The pressurised air advantageously pushes the water out of the container under pressure so that the water can be expelled quickly. The container can then be re-filled with water again and the cycle is repeated.

[0032] Beneficially, the system may further comprise an electrolysis apparatus communicated with the system for generating hydrogen and oxygen from water. The hydrogen and oxygen can be produced from the water of the body of water and thus a continuous supply of water is available for the reaction. The hydrogen may be combusted in a boiler. The electrolysis apparatus may be powered by the electricity generated by the turbine.

[0033] Additionally, the system may further comprise a hydrogen fuel cell for receiving hydrogen and oxygen from the electrolysis apparatus and generating electricity and heat therefrom. The electricity generated by the fuel cell may be exported to domestic, commercial, or industrial premises. The heat may be used to heat the air in the airreceiving containers to further pressurise the air.

[0034] For a better understanding of the present invention, and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example only to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Figure 1 shows a fluid movement system in use according to a first aspect of the invention; and

[0036] Figure 2 shows a system according to a second aspect of the invention, in use under a surface of a body of water.

[0037] Referring firstly to Figure 1 there is shown a fluid movement system 10 having a first reservoir 12a, a second reservoir 12b, a first container 14a, a second container 14b, a first conduit 16a and a second conduit 16b. The fluid movement system 10 also has a first fluid moving means 18a and a second fluid moving means 18b. The first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b contain water or other, preferably liquid, fluid. The first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b are each a cuboidal container, of at least a height of 50m, although it may be feasible that any shaped tank suitable for storing water may be used. The first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b each have a capacity of 2 million litres, although other capacities may be considered.

[0038] Once filled with water, there is preferably no water inlet or water source for the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b. As such, the fluid movement system 10 requires no continued source of fluid, unlike conventional hydroelectric power generators.

[0039] Each of the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b have an in use upper portion 20 and an in use lower portion 22. For example, the in use upper portion 20 may be defined by an upper half of the reservoir, and the in use lower portion 22 may be defined by a lower half of the reservoir.

[0040] The first and second containers 14a, 14b are preferably cuboidal tanks, although it may be feasible that any shape tank suitable for storing water and / or air may be used. The first and second containers 14a, 14b may also be referred to as first and second ballast chambers. The first container 14a is located within the lower portion 22 of the first reservoir 12a and the second container 14b is located within the lower portion 22 of the second reservoir 12b. It is feasible that the first container 14a may be located outside of the first reservoir 12a and that the second container 14b may be located outside of the second reservoir 12b. The first and second containers 14a, 14b are configured to contain water and / or air depending on whether the containers are being filled up with water or evacuated of water.

[0041] The first container 14a has a first-container fluid inlet 24a and at least one first- container fluid outlet 26a. The second container 14b has a second-container fluid inlet 24b and at least one second-container fluid outlet 26b. There may be, for example, three of each first- and second-container fluid outlets 26a, 26b.

[0042] The first-container fluid inlet 24a is configured to allow water to enter the first container 14a from the second conduit 16b and the second-container fluid inlet 24b is configured to allow water to enter the second container 14b from the first conduit 16a.

[0043] At least one container-exhaust 28 is present which is communicated with each of the first and second containers 14a, 14b. The container-exhaust 28 is for exhausting air from each of the first and second containers 14a, 14b when the first and second containers 14a, 14b are filled with water from the first and second conduits 16a, 16b respectively. The container-exhaust 28 may be an opening with a valve.

[0044] The first-container fluid outlet 26a is communicated with the lower portion 22 of the first reservoir 12a. The second-container fluid outlet 26b is communicated with the lower portion 22 of the second reservoir 12b. The first and second-container fluid outlets 26a, 26b are located on an in use lower surface 30 of the first and second containers 14a, 14b respectively, although it is feasible that the first and second-container fluid outlets 26a, 26b may be located anywhere on the first and second containers 14a, 14b, for example, on a side surface of the containers, as long as fluid is not prevented from being removed from the first and second containers 14a, 14b.

[0045] The first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b are spaced apart from one another and are bridged by, or connected by, the first conduit 16a and the second conduit 16b, which may also be referred to as penstock tubes. The first and second conduits 16a, 16b may each have a length of 50m, however if it is desired for a total fall from a height of 50m then it is appreciated that the length of the first and second conduit 16a, 16b is required to be longer than 50m in order to achieve such a height fall when the water is travelling along a diagonal. Each of the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b are preferably able to transport 3.5m3of water per second.

[0046] The first conduit 16a is arranged between the upper portion 20 of the first reservoir 12a and the second-container fluid inlet 24b, and the second conduit 16b is arranged between the upper portion 20 of the second reservoir 12b and the first -container fluid inlet 24a. The first conduit 16a and second conduit 16b are separate to one another; however, it may be feasible that the first and second conduits 16a, 16b are interconnected. In the embodiment where the first and second conduits are interconnected, there may be a midpoint divertor valve at the intersection between the first and second conduits to direct water in the correct direction. This alternative arrangement may also be referred to as a fulcrum structure which provides a midpoint divertor valve to alternate the water flow in between the first and second reservoirs.

[0047] The first and second conduits 16a, 16b may have a first-conduit valve 32a and second- conduit valve 32b respectively for controlling the flow of water from the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b respectively. The first-conduit valve 32a may be located between the upper portion 20 of the first reservoir 12a and the lower portion 22 of the second reservoir 12b. For example, the first-conduit valve 32a is preferably located at the interface between the first reservoir 12a and the first conduit 16a. The second-conduit valve 32b may be located between the upper portion 20 of the second reservoir 12b and the lower portion 22 of the first reservoir 12a. For example, the second-conduit valve 32b is preferably located at the interface between the second reservoir 12b and the second conduit 16b.

[0048] However, the first and second-conduit valves 32a, 32b may be located anywhere along the first and second conduits 16a, 16b respectively, although a larger potential force is generated if the water flows from a larger height. Thus, it is preferable if the valves are at the interfaces between the conduits and the reservoirs.

[0049] The first conduit 16a has a first turbine 34a between the upper portion 20 of the first reservoir 12a and the second-container fluid inlet 24b, preferably being at the second- container fluid inlet 24b. The second conduit 16b has a second turbine 34b between the upper portion 20 of the second reservoir 12b and the first-container fluid inlet 24a, preferably being at the first-container fluid inlet 24a. The first and second turbines 34a, 34b are driven by the movement of water through the first and second conduits 16a, 16b. The larger the height that the water flows from, the larger the potential energy generated. The movement of the first and second turbines 34a, 34b generates electricity.

[0050] The first and second conduits 16a, 16b are tubes, or penstocks, for transporting water and are elongate. The tubes have a circular cross section but it is also feasible that the tubes have any other shaped cross section.

[0051] The first and second conduits 16a, 16b preferably each have at least one port 36 for introducing air into the first and second conduits 16a, 16b. The at least one port 36 may be located anywhere along the length of the first and second conduits 16a, 16b. To prevent water exiting the first and second conduits 16a, 16b, it is preferable that the ports 36 are located on an in use upper surface 38 of the first and second conduits 16a, 16b. As water passes through the first and second turbines 34a, 34b, air may be forced to mix with the water when the water passes through the first and second conduits 16a, 16b.

[0052] The first fluid moving means 18a is at least in part located within the first reservoir 12a and is fluidly communicated with the first container 14a. The second fluid moving means 18b is located at least in part within the second reservoir 12b and is fluidly communicated with the second container 14b. The first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b are preferably located in the lower portions 22 of the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b respectively although it is feasible that first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b are in the upper portions 20 of the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b respectively.

[0053] The first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b are for evacuating water from the first and second containers 14a, 14b respectively due to the release of pressurised air into the first and second containers 14a, 14b. The evacuated water is evacuated through the first and second-container fluid outlets 26a, 26b. The first and second- container fluid outlets 26a, 26b are closeable respectively by a first-container valve 40a and a second-container valve 40b. The first and second-container valves 40a, 40b are also known as a first gate latch and a second gate latch. The first and second-container valves 40a, 40b provide the controlled and rapid release of water through the first and second-container fluid outlets 26a, 26b from the first and second containers 14a, 14b respectively. It will be appreciated that the first-container valve 40a and second- container valve 40b may be one-way valves, to allow passage of water from the first container 14a or second container 14b into the first reservoir 12a or second reservoir 12b, but not to allow water to pass back therethrough.

[0054] The first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b have a first air-receiving container 42a and a second air-receiving container 42b respectively. Each of the first and second air-receiving containers 42a, 42b receive pressurized air. The first and second airreceiving containers 42a, 42b respectively have a first fan 44a and a second fan 44b, or first pump and second pump, to respectively direct air into the first and second airreceiving containers 42a, 42b. The air directed into the first and second air-receiving containers 42a, 42b is pressurized.

[0055] Each of the first and second fans 44a, 44b are mechanically connected to the first and second turbines 34a, 34b. As the first and second turbines 34a, 34b move, the first and second fans 44a, 44b are also respectively activated to move and direct air into the first and second air-receiving containers 42a, 42b.

[0056] The first air-receiving container 42a and the second air-receiving container 42b are fluidly communicated, for example via a tube 46, with the first container 14a and the second container 14b respectively. However, such a connection may be closeable and openable via a valve. The first and second air-receiving containers 42a, 42b are respectively isolated from the first and second containers 14a, 14b by the valves. When opened, pressurized air can flow respectively from the first and second air-receiving containers 42a, 42b into the first and second containers 14a, 14b such that the water in the first and second containers 14a, 14b is forced out through the first and second- container fluid outlets 26a, 26b.

[0057] Each of the said first and second air-receiving containers 42a, 42b of the first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b each have an exhaust valve 48. This may allow for creation of a vacuum effect, and / or for releasing excess pressurized air therefrom.

[0058] A heating means 50 is in contact with each of the first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b. The heating means 50 heats the air received into the first and second airreceiving containers 42a, 42b and thus pressurises the air therein.

[0059] The heating means 50 includes a heated-fluid receiving chamber 52 at or adjacent to each of the first air-receiving container 42a and the second air-receiving container 42b. Each of the heated-fluid receiving chambers 52 preferably surrounds the first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b. Each heated-fluid receiving chamber 52 heats the air within the corresponding first and second air-receiving container 42b. The heated-fluid receiving chambers 52 are fluidly communicated with a boiler for providing heated fluid, for example heated water.

[0060] An electrolysis apparatus 54 for generating hydrogen and oxygen from water is preferably included in the system. The electrolysis apparatus 54 is preferably communicated with the first reservoir 12a and / or the second reservoir 12b. The electrolysis apparatus 54 may be powered by electrical energy provided by the first and second turbines 34a, 34b.

[0061] The hydrogen and oxygen produced by the electrolysis apparatus 54 may be used in a hydrogen fuel cell which is configured to generate electricity and heat. The produced heat may be used to heat the fluid in the heated-fluid receiving chamber 52. The electricity may be transmitted for domestic or commercial use, for example.

[0062] Additionally or alternatively, the hydrogen produced may be used as a fuel to power the boiler, the resulting water vapour being condensed and fed back into the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b.

[0063] The fluid movement system 10 may also include solar panels, or other forms of renewable energy generator such as wind turbines, for providing power to the system.

[0064] A controller may be present in the system for controlling the opening and closing any of the valves in the system, for example the first and second-conduit valves 32a, 32b, the first and second container valves and the exhaust valves 48. In use, the first container 14a is filled with water from the second conduit 16b. To achieve this, the second-conduit valve 32b is opened, preferably via the activation of the controller, and thus water from the second reservoir 12b flows along the second conduit 16b, through the second turbine 34b and through the first -container fluid inlet 24a. The water therefore flows into the first container 14a.

[0065] The water has a low density due to air being incorporated into the water via the ports 36 as the water flows along the second conduit 16b. The second turbine 34b is driven as the water flows into the first container 14a and generates electricity, as well as driving the associated first fan 44a via the mechanical linkage.

[0066] The first air-receiving container 42a of the first fluid moving means 18a is filled with pressurized air via the first fan 44a or pump.

[0067] The air is further pressurized from the heating means 50 contacting and preferably surrounding the first air-receiving container 42a. The boiler heats the fluid within the heated-fluid receiving chambers 52 of the heating means 50. The heat provided to the boiler may be generated from burning hydrogen produced from the electrolysis apparatus 54. The heated fluid in the heated-fluid receiving chambers 52 heats up the air within the first air-receiving container 42a and thus pressurizes the air.

[0068] When the valve between the first air-receiving container 42a and the first container 14a is opened, the pressurized air is exhausted into the first container 14a as the first airreceiving container 42a and the first container 14a are fluidly communicated. Water in the first container 14a is thus evacuated out of the first container 14a via the first- container fluid outlets 26a through the action of the highly pressurised air. Before the water is evacuated, the controller causes the first-container fluid inlet 24a to close so that the water within the first container 14a flows out into first reservoir 12a only.

[0069] When water is evacuated from the first container 14a, the water level in the first reservoir 12a rises and so water flows through the first-conduit valve 32a, along the first conduit 16a, through the second-container fluid inlet 24b and thus through the first turbine 34a. The first turbine 34a is driven as the water flows into the second container 14b and generates electricity.

[0070] The second air-receiving container 42b of the second fluid moving means 18b is filled with pressurized air via the second fan 44b or pump. The second fan 44b is activated as the first turbine 34a is driven. The air is further pressurized from the heating means 50 contacting and preferably surrounding the second air-receiving container 42b. As described above, the boiler heats the fluid within the heated-fluid receiving chambers 52 of the heating means 50. The heat provided to the boiler may be generated from burning hydrogen produced from the electrolysis apparatus 54. The heated fluid in the heated-fluid receiving chambers 52 heats up the air within the second air-receiving container 42b and thus pressurizes the air.

[0071] When the valve between the second air-receiving container 42b and the second container 14b is opened, the pressurized air is exhausted into the second container 14b as the second air-receiving container 42b and the second container 14b are fluidly communicated. Water in the second container 14b is thus evacuated out of the second container 14b via the second-container fluid outlets 26b. Before the water is evacuated, the controller causes the second-container fluid inlet 24b to close so that the water within the second container 14b flows out into second reservoir 12b only.

[0072] As with the first reservoir 12a, when water is evacuated from the second container 14b, the water level in the second reservoir 12b rises and so flows through the second- conduit valve 32b. The cycle can then continue.

[0073] In summary, water is evacuated from the first and second containers 14a, 14b when pressurised air is released into the first and second containers 14a, 14b from the first and second air-receiving containers 42a, 42b respectively. The release of water causes water from both first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b to flow along the first and second conduits 16a, 16b and through the first and second turbines 34a, 34b to generate electricity. Preferably, the movement of water between the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b occurs simultaneously.

[0074] Supplementary electricity to power the first and second fans 44a, 44b, electrolysis apparatus 54 and / or the power the controller may preferably generated from solar panels connected to the system.

[0075] Hydrogen and oxygen may be produced from at least one electrolysis apparatus 54, also known as an electrolyser, connected to the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b. Water from the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b may be used for the electrolysis reaction. The hydrogen and oxygen may be used to power fuel cells attached to the system. The fuel cells may be used to power the electrical components of the system 10, such as the controller. Instead of a heating means 50 and the arrangement of the first and second airreceiving containers 42a, 42b, it will be appreciated that the first and second fluid moving means 18a, 18b may instead comprise an air pump. The pump may be fluidly communicable with the first and second containers 14a, 14b such that pressurized air is delivered to the first and second containers 14a, 14b from an external air source, for example the air surrounding the first and second reservoirs 12a, 12b. This may allow evacuating of water from the first and second containers 14a, 14b. The air pump may be powered by the electrical energy provided by the turbine and / or the solar panels.

[0076] In an alternative embodiment, the first and second containers may be respectively movable from the lower portion of the first and second reservoirs to the upper portion. For example, the first container, located at the lower portion of the first reservoir, may be full of air and maintained at the lower portion via a weight or securing means.

[0077] The first container is then filled with water from the second conduit, the water flowing through the first turbine, and the air within the first container evacuated. Attached to the first container is at least one buoyancy element such that the first container, although full of water, can float to the upper portion when the buoyancy element is filled with air. The air may be supplied from the evacuated air originally contained within the first container. The securing means may be released from the first container to further promote the floatation of the first container.

[0078] When the first container reaches the upper portion and aligns with the first conduit, the water is expelled into the first conduit and the first container is emptied. The water in the first conduit then fills the second container and the process is repeated in the second reservoir.

[0079] The first container is again filled with water via a further container-fluid inlet, the water coming from the first reservoir, and due to the weight of the first container the first container sinks back to the lower portion to repeat the process. The buoyancy element preferably also has the air removed therefrom or the buoyancy element is deactivated to promote the sinking of the first container.

[0080] The water within the first container is then evacuated via a fluid moving means such that the first container is emptied and ready to receive water from the second conduit.

[0081] The power produced from the flow of water in the above system is calculated as follows: P = QpgHrj

[0082] Where:

[0083] P is the power produced in kWh.

[0084] Q is the flow rate of the first or second conduit 16a, 16b. In this embodiment, the value of Q is between 3.5 and 5m3 / s. p is the density of water in kg / m3. The value of the density of water is 1000kg / m3. g is the gravitational constant of 9.81 m / s2.

[0085] H is the height from which the water flows. In this embodiment, the height is 50m. q is the global efficiency ratio typically between 0.7 and 0.9.

[0086] Using the above calculation, and a Q value of 5m3 / s and an q value of 0.8, the power generated is 1962kW.

[0087] If a smaller system is used, referred to as a micro hydropower system, the value of q is 0.53. The value of H will also be less than 50m in this micro hydropower system.

[0088] Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a system 100 for use under a surface of a body of water. The body of water may be the sea, a lake or other large water source.

[0089] The system 100 includes a container 1 10 for containing air and / or water. The container 1 10 includes a water inlet 1 12 closeable by a water-inlet valve 114 and a water outlet 1 16 closeable by a water-outlet valve 118.

[0090] The container 110 is a cuboidal tank, although it may be feasible that any shape tank suitable for storing water and / or air may be used. The container 110 may also be referred to as a ballast chamber. The container 110 is located under the surface of a body of water.

[0091] The water-inlet valve 1 14 is for selectively permitting water to enter the container 110. The water-inlet valve 1 14 may be located on any surface of the container 1 10.

[0092] A controller may be communicated with the system 100 to control when the water-inlet valve 1 14 is opened to provide controlled intake of water. A turbine 120 is at or adjacent to the water-inlet valve 1 14 such that when water enters the container 1 10 as the water-inlet valve 114 is opened, the turbine 120 is driven and electricity is generated.

[0093] A fluid moving means 122 evacuates water from the container 1 10 through the water outlet 116. The fluid moving means 122 preferably includes a pump to forcibly pump the water out of the container 110. The water outlet 116 and associated water-outlet valve 1 18 are preferably located on a lower surface 124 of the container 1 10; however, it is feasible that the water-outlet valve 1 18 may be located on any surface of the container 110. The water-outlet valve 118 may also be referred to as a gate latch.

[0094] Air is drawn into the container 110 via an air conduit 126, also referred to as an airvent pipe or snorkel, using the pump. The air conduit 126 is preferably an elongate tube extending from the container 110 to the air above the surface of the body of water.

[0095] The air conduit 126 has an inlet 128. The inlet 128 is positioned above the surface of the body of water so that air can enter the air conduit 126 and the container 110. The inlet 128 is fluidly communicable with the container 1 10 such that air is supplied to the container 110.

[0096] An anchoring means 130, such as a weight or ropes attached to the seabed or lakebed, is attached to the container 110 to prevent the container 110 from floating to the surface of the body of water.

[0097] A buoyancy means, such as an inflatable float, may be attached to the air conduit 126 for maintaining the inlet 128 above the surface of the body of water. This prevents water entering the air inlet 128 as the air conduit 126 is prevented from tipping over and into the water.

[0098] In use, water enters the container 110 via the water-inlet valve 114 and the turbine 120 is driven. Electricity is preferably produced due to the movement of the turbine 120.

[0099] The water-inlet valve 114 is then shut via the controller so that only the water within the container 1 10 can be evacuated.

[0100] The fluid moving means 122 preferably includes a pump and evacuates water from the container 1 10 via the water-outlet valve 118. As the water is forced out, air is forced into the container 110 from the air conduit 126. As the container 1 10 is now empty, the water inlet 112 can be opened again by the controller to start the process again.

[0101] A further container 132 may be present preferably located above the container 110 and held in position using a buoyancy means 134 and / or an anchoring means. The further container 132 contains water to be directed into the container 1 10 and has a further-container inlet 136 and a further-container outlet 138. The further-container inlet 136 allows for water to enter the further container 132. The water then exits the further container 132 by the further-container outlet 138 and flows along a submerged conduit 140. The water then enters the container 1 10 via the water inlet 1 12. The further- container inlet 136 and further-container outlet 138 may be operated by the controller.

[0102] The further container 132 and further-container inlet 136 may act as a filter for preventing animals and sea creatures such as whales and fish from entering the container 1 10 and possibly damaging the system 100. The filtering ability is due to the water first entering the system 100 via the further container 132 before entering the container 110. There may be netting, mesh or other prevention means covering the further-container inlet 136 to further act as a filter.

[0103] The submerged conduit 140, also known as a submerged penstock, fluidly communicates the further container 132 with the container 1 10. The submerged conduit 140 is preferably an elongate tube. Water which enters the further container 132 preferably flows along the submerged conduit 140, through the turbine 120, through the water inlet 112 and into the container 1 10.

[0104] The further-container outlet 138 is communicated with the water-inlet valve 114 of the container 110 via the submerged conduit 140.

[0105] Solar panels or other renewable energy source such as wind turbines may be attached to the system 100, for example on floatation devices, to generate electricity to power the fluid moving means 122 and the controller.

[0106] The electricity produced, from the renewable energy sources or the turbines, may also be used to power an electrolysis apparatus. Hydrogen and oxygen may be produced from at least one electrolysis apparatus, also known as an electrolyser, connected to or in the container or another water source. Water from the sea, lake or river may be used for the electrolysis reaction. The hydrogen and oxygen may be used to power hydrogen fuel cells, which may generate electricity to power the controller or other electrical components, attached to the system. The electrolyser and fuel cells may be held afloat by a vessel or other buoyancy means above the surface of the body of water.

[0107] In the second embodiment, it will be appreciated that, instead of a pump, there may be fluid moving means similar to the first embodiment, having an air-receiving container fluidly communicable with the container. The air conduit may be fluidly communicable with the air-receiving container such that air is supplied to the air-receiving container. There may be a fan to pressurize air entering the air-receiving container. There may also be a valve actuatable to prevent air escaping from the air-receiving container and out of the air conduit.

[0108] A heated-fluid receiving chamber contacts and preferably surrounds the air-receiving container. A boiler or other heating means, which may be powered by hydrogen from the hydrogen fuel cell, heats the fluid within the heated-fluid receiving chamber. The boiler may be afloat on the body of water, for example supported by a vessel or other buoyancy means, or may be positioned near the body of water, for example on the shore of the river, lake, or sea. The heated fluid then heats the air within the airreceiving container and thus pressurizes the air.

[0109] The air-receiving chamber and the container are fluidly communicable, for example via a tube. There may be a valve between the air-receiving chamber and the container to control when the pressurised air enters the container. As such, the air-receiving chamber is sealable, to allow high pressure air to be created when the air is heated. When the valve opens, the pressurised air enters the container and expels the water out through the water outlet. The valve between the air-receiving chamber and the container, and the valve at the water outlet, close once the water is expelled and the container is ready to receive water via the inlet from the body of water again.

[0110] The air-receiving chamber and / or boiler may be held in position using an anchoring means and / or a buoyancy means, or may be configured to float on the surface of the water, or may be positioned on the shore.

[0111] There may be container exhausts, fans to introduce pressurized air into the airreceiving containers, exhaust valves and ports similar to those in the system of Figure 1 . The container exhausts, the fans, the exhaust valves and the ports may be fluidly communicable with the air above the surface of the body of water via at least one conduit so that air can be supplied and exhausted. The embodiments described above are provided by way of example only, and various changes and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0112] The words ‘comprises / comprising’ and the words ‘having / including’ when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

[0113] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A fluid movement system comprising: a first reservoir and a second reservoir, each of the first and second reservoirs having an in use upper portion and an in use lower portion; a first container for containing water and / or air, the first container having a first-container fluid inlet, and a first-container fluid outlet communicated with the lower portion of the first reservoir, the first- container fluid outlet being closeable by a first-container valve; a second container for containing water and / or air, the second container having a second-container fluid inlet, and a second-container fluid outlet communicated with the lower portion of the second reservoir, the second-container fluid outlet being closeable by a second-container valve; a first conduit arranged between the upper portion of the first reservoir and the second-container fluid inlet, the first conduit having a first turbine between the upper portion of the first reservoir and the second- container fluid inlet; a second conduit arranged between the upper portion of the second reservoir and the first-container fluid inlet, the second conduit having a second turbine between the upper portion of the second reservoir and the first-container fluid inlet; a first fluid moving means fluidly communicated with the first container, the first fluid moving means for evacuating water from the first container and through the first-container fluid outlet; and a second fluid moving means fluidly communicated with the second container, the second fluid moving means for evacuating water from the second container and through the second-container fluid outlet, the system configured so that in use when water is evacuated from the first container, the water in the first reservoir flows into the first conduit and drives the first turbine, and when water is evacuated from thesecond container, the water in the second reservoir flows into the second conduit and drives the second turbine.

2. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second fluid moving means comprises a first air-receiving container and a second air-receiving container respectively, each of the first and second air-receiving containers for receiving pressurised air, the first airreceiving container and the second air-receiving container fluidly communicated with the first container and the second container respectively so that in use water is evacuated from the first and second containers when pressurised air is released into the first and second containers from the first and second air-receiving containers respectively.

3. A fluid movement system as claimed in claim 2, wherein each of the first and second air-receiving containers have an exhaust valve for releasing excess pressurized air.

4. A fluid movement system as claimed in claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the first and second fluid moving means further comprises a heating means for heating the air received in the first air-receiving container and the second air-receiving container.

5. A fluid movement system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the heating means comprises a heated-fluid receiving chamber at or adjacent to each of the first air-receiving container and the second air-receiving container for receiving heated fluid for heating the air therein.

6. A fluid movement system as claimed in claim 5, wherein the heated-fluid receiving chambers are fluidly communicated with a boiler for providing heated fluid.

7. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein each of the first and second air-receiving containers has a first fan and a second fan for directing air into each of the first and second air-receiving containers respectively.

8. A fluid movement system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first and second fans are mechanically linked to the first and second turbines respectively, such that when the first and second turbines move the respective fan is driven.

9. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second conduits comprise a first-conduit valve and second-conduit valve respectively for controlling the flow of water from the first and second reservoirs respectively, the first-conduit valve located between the upper portion of the first reservoir and the lower portion of the second reservoir, and the second-conduit valve located between the upper portion of the second reservoir and the lower portion of the first reservoir.

10. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an electrolysis apparatus communicated with the first reservoir and / or second reservoir for generating hydrogen and oxygen from water.1 1 . A fluid movement system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the fluid movement system further comprises a hydrogen fuel cell for receiving hydrogen and oxygen from the electrolysis apparatus and generating electricity and heat therefrom.

12. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first and second containers have a container-exhaust for exhausting excess air from each of the first and second containers.

13. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second conduits each further comprise a port for introducing air into the first and second conduits.

14. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first container is within the lower portion of the first reservoir and the second container is within the lower portion of the second reservoir.

15. A fluid movement system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system further comprises solar panels for providing power to the system.

16. A fluid movement system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second-container valves are gate latches.

17. A fluid movement system as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid movement system is for use under a surface of a body of water.

18. A system for use under a surface of a body of water, the system comprising: a container for containing air and / or water, the container having a water inlet closeable by a water-inlet valve for selectively permitting water to enter the container, and a water outlet closeable by a wateroutlet valve; a turbine for being driven by water entering the water inlet; a fluid moving means for evacuating water from the container through the water outlet; and an air conduit having an inlet for being positioned above a surface of the body of water, the air conduit being fluidly communicated to the container for supplying air to the container, so that in use when water enters the container via the inlet valve, the turbine is driven, and when the fluid moving means evacuates water from the container, air is forced into the container via the air conduit.

19. A system as claimed in claim 18, wherein the container comprises an anchoring means for preventing the container from floating to the surface of a body of water.

20. A system as claimed in any one of claims 18 or 19, wherein the air conduit comprises a buoyancy means for maintaining the inlet above the surface of the body of water.21 . A system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20, further comprising a further container for containing water.

22. A system as claimed in claim 21 , further comprising a submerged conduit fluidly communicable with the further container and the container.

23. A system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the fluid moving means comprises an air-receiving container for receiving pressurised air, the air-receiving container being fluidly communicated with the container so that in use water is evacuated from the container when pressurised air is released into the container from the air-receiving container.

24. A system as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 23, further comprising an electrolysis apparatus communicated with the system for generating hydrogen and oxygen from water.

25. A system as claimed in claim 24, further comprising a hydrogen fuel cell for receiving hydrogen and oxygen from the electrolysis apparatus and generating electricity and heat therefrom.

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