Articulated-Wing Power Generation Using Pivoted Fins in Fluid Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydroelectric and wind-power generation systems face inefficiencies and environmental impacts, such as the need for dams and dependence on consistent wind conditions.
Innovation Solution
An articulated wing energy generation system that operates in a flowing fluid, utilizing an extendable arm with a fin or wing to convert fluid flow into energy through a pivot joint mechanism, coupled to an energy generator.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hydroelectric systems use dams to store water for turbine generation, then sufficient water storage and consistent power generation are achieved, but environmental disruption, habitat interference, and high construction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the essential function of water storage from the dam structure itself. By using naturally occurring lakes, reservoirs, or other water bodies as the storage medium, the system removes the need for artificial dams while maintaining the water storage function required for hydroelectric power generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism (the articulated arm with pivot joint and fin assembly) that mediates between the natural water flow and the turbine generator. This intermediary converts the kinetic energy of flowing water into mechanical motion to drive the turbine, eliminating the need for direct dam-turbine connection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If wind turbines are used for power generation, then flexible placement and lower environmental impact are achieved, but power generation is limited to periods when sufficient wind is blowing
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a multi-functional system that can operate in various fluid environments (water, air, or other gases) and under different flow conditions. The articulated arm mechanism with adjustable fin angles can adapt to different flow speeds and directions, enabling consistent power generation whether water is flowing rapidly or slowly, or whether wind is blowing strongly or gently.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic elements including the articulated arm that can pivot and adjust its angle, and the fin that can change its orientation relative to the fluid flow. These dynamic adjustments allow the system to optimize its performance across varying flow conditions, maintaining power generation consistency regardless of whether the fluid flow is strong or weak.
3Power
If traditional hydroelectric systems are constructed, then sufficient power generation capacity is achieved, but construction costs and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the water storage function from expensive dam infrastructure and utilizes naturally occurring water bodies instead. This eliminates the need for costly dam construction, earthmoving operations, and associated infrastructure while maintaining sufficient water storage for power generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes naturally occurring water bodies (lakes, reservoirs, rivers) that already exist in the environment, eliminating the need for artificial water storage infrastructure. The natural water flow and storage characteristics of these bodies serve the power generation function without requiring additional construction or maintenance of storage facilities.
4Productivity
If dams are constructed for water storage, then consistent hydroelectric power generation is achieved, but extensive upkeep and maintenance are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the dam structure entirely from the system, extracting only the essential function of water storage and flow utilization. By using naturally occurring water bodies, the system eliminates the maintenance-intensive components of dams including spillways, gates, and structural repairs while maintaining consistent water supply for power generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The natural water bodies (lakes, reservoirs, rivers) perform the water storage and flow regulation functions automatically through their natural characteristics, requiring no human intervention for maintenance. The system leverages the self-regulating nature of natural water flows to provide consistent power generation without the upkeep required for artificial dam infrastructure.
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
Generates energy efficiently with a small footprint, adaptable to various fluid flows, and minimizes environmental disruption, allowing for flexible installation and high energy production.
Implementation Method 1
A fin or wing on one end of the extendable arm is impacted by at least a portion of the fluid flow and causes the extendable arm to move
Implementation Method 2
A fin or wing on one end of the extendable arm is impacted by at least a portion of the fluid flow and causes the extendable arm to move
Implementation Method 3
the fin or wing is coupled to the extendable arm through a pivot joint that changes the orientation of the fin or wing upon reaching a set point or set time and causes the extendable arm to move in the opposite direction
Implementation Method 4
The other end of the extendable arm is coupled to an energy generator that creates energy due to the motion of the extendable arm
Data Source
AI summary
An energy generation system to generate energy from a fluid flow, the energy generation system including an extendable arm that extends into a fluid flow, a fin connected to one end of the extendable arm and causing, due to the fluid flow, the extendable arm to move from a first orientation within the fluid flow to a second orientation within the fluid flow, and a joint connected to a second end of the extendable arm that couples the extendable arm to an energy generator.