Floating Hydrofoil Vessels for Predictable Tidal Power Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tidal and ocean current-based energy production systems face limitations due to variable tidal flow velocities, large vessel sizes causing visual impact and ecosystem disturbance, and inefficiencies in energy production due to density differences between air and water, leading to intermittency and management challenges in electricity grids.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising floating vessels with underwater hydrofoils and turbines that harness the apparent speed of ocean or tidal currents, using a guide cable to propel the vessels and generate electricity, optimizing energy production by leveraging the higher density of water and providing predictable power output.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If tidal turbines are placed on the sea floor in locations with strong tidal flow, then energy production is improved, but the system is limited to specific locations and depends on variable tidal flow velocities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static sea floor-mounted turbines to dynamic floating vessels that can move with tidal currents. The vessels are propelled by tidal flow through hydrofoils and can operate in various locations, making the system both productive and adaptable to different environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary propulsion system (hydrofoils and guide cables) between the tidal flow and the turbine. Instead of directly placing turbines on the sea floor, the system uses floating vessels with hydrofoils that convert tidal motion into controlled vessel movement, which then drives the turbines, enabling both energy production and location flexibility
2Productivity
If large vessels are used for tidal energy production, then energy production capacity is improved, but visual impact and ecosystem disturbance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin-film hydrofoils for vessel propulsion instead of large traditional hulls. These hydrofoils are streamlined and can be made of thin materials, significantly reducing the visual profile and physical disturbance to the ecosystem while maintaining propulsion efficiency for energy production
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional surface vessels to three-dimensional hydrodynamic systems operating below the water surface. The hydrofoils and vessels operate submerged, reducing visual impact from above while maintaining operational effectiveness for energy generation
3Use of energy by moving object
If sail-driven vessels are used to propel turbines, then renewable energy utilization is improved, but the density difference between air and water reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent switches from pneumatic propulsion (sails using air) to hydraulic propulsion (hydrofoils using water). By utilizing the denser water medium for propulsion, the system overcomes the efficiency limitations of air-water density differences while still using renewable tidal energy to drive the vessels and turbines
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates homogeneity by using the same fluid medium (water) for both propulsion and turbine operation. The hydrofoils are propelled by water flow, and the same water flow drives the turbines, eliminating the inefficiency of transferring energy from air (sails) to water (turbines) and maximizing overall system efficiency
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 system enhances energy production in areas with slow currents, reduces visual impact, and provides a predictable, controllable power source that eases grid management by adapting to load demands, overcoming intermittency issues of traditional renewable energy sources.
Implementation Method 1
at least one hydrofoil for propelling the floating vessel along the at least one guiding unit
Implementation Method 2
at least one underwater turbine operatively connected to at least one electrical generator for producing electricity
Implementation Method 3
at least one guide cable connected to the at least one floating vessel for guiding said at least one floating vessel along a path
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for producing electricity from a fluid stream in a body of water body comprising: at least one guiding unit defining a closed loop path; a plurality of floating vessels arranged in a spaced apart configuration, each floating vessel comprising: at least one hull; at least one hydrofoil for propelling the floating vessel along the at least one guiding unit; and at least one underwater turbine operatively connected to at least one electrical generator; wherein each floating vessel is slidably connected to the at least one guiding unit and is electrically connected to at least one power line for transmitting the electric energy produced by its at least one electrical generator to an external electrical network or to an external consumer. The present invention also relates to a method for producing electricity from a fluid stream in a body of water.