3D Flow Floating Power Generator with Adjustable Paddles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional water wheels, despite their historical significance, face limitations in efficiency and environmental impact, particularly the undershot type which relies solely on kinetic hydro potential, resulting in lower power generation and higher environmental footprint.
Innovation Solution
A floating power generator featuring a paddle wheel operating within a three-dimensional flow passageway, connected to electrical generators with a variable speed drive and adjustable paddles, allowing for optimal energy capture by adjusting pitch and depth to align with water flow conditions, thereby maximizing kinetic energy conversion without damming rivers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional undershot water wheels are used, then the construction is simpler and cost is lower, but the energy capture efficiency is lower
Solution Approach 1:
The water wheel is designed with adjustable paddle pitch angles that can be dynamically changed to optimize performance for different flow conditions. The entire water wheel assembly can be raised or lowered to adjust the depth at which paddles operate, allowing the system to adapt to varying water levels and flow rates to maximize energy capture efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional two-dimensional paddle wheels to a three-dimensional configuration where paddles are arranged at multiple depths below the water surface. This vertical dimension allows the water wheel to capture kinetic energy from a larger volume of flowing water, significantly improving energy capture efficiency while maintaining relatively simple construction
2Device complexity
If traditional water wheels are used, then the construction is simpler, but the environmental impact is higher
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable pitch and depth capabilities allow the water wheel to operate efficiently in a wider range of flow conditions without requiring complex channel structures. This reduces the need for extensive civil works and habitat disruption while maintaining simplicity of the core device
Solution Approach 2:
By enabling continuous adjustment of operational parameters (pitch angle and depth), the system can optimize performance for specific site conditions, reducing the need for complex fixed structures and minimizing environmental disturbance while improving energy capture
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed depth water channels are used, then the construction is simpler, but the adaptability to varying water conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The water wheel assembly incorporates adjustable depth positioning, allowing it to be raised or lowered to operate at optimal depths for varying water levels. The paddle pitch angles are also adjustable to match different flow velocities, enabling the system to maintain high efficiency across a wide range of hydrological conditions without requiring complex channel modifications
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The floating power generator achieves higher energy capture efficiency compared to traditional water wheels, with the ability to operate in varying water conditions and depths, reducing environmental impact while providing a scalable and cost-effective solution for electricity generation.
Implementation Method 1
The floating power generator uses the raw power of the river flow... The paddles of the paddle wheel are turned by the relative flow of water impinging on the paddles. This arrangement produces torque by transferring the kinetic energy of the flowing water to the paddle cups of the paddles
Implementation Method 2
A floating power generator comprises a paddle wheel operating in a three-dimensional flow passageway... connected to one or more electrical generators
Data Source
AI summary
A floating electrical power generator having a three-dimensional (3D) flow passageway configured for increasing the water flow on the paddle wheel to increase the power output.