Floating Hydrokinetic Turbine Platform with Dynamic Anchoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydroelectric systems for harnessing ocean currents are not resilient to natural disasters and lack an aesthetically pleasing design, failing to effectively utilize underwater river current energy.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a platform supported by flotation members above water, with turbines extending below to capture underwater currents, an anchoring system for stability, and electrical generators to convert rotational torque into electrical energy, designed to be portable and aesthetically appealing, capable of rising and falling with water levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hydroelectric systems are used to harness ocean currents, then power generation is achieved, but the systems are vulnerable to natural disasters and lack aesthetic appeal
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power generation structure into separate functional components: floating platforms for power generation, turbines extending below water, and independent anchoring systems. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function and improves overall system resilience, as damage to one component does not necessarily compromise the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system incorporates dynamic elements that allow the platform to move vertically with water level changes while maintaining horizontal stability. The system can adapt its configuration in response to environmental conditions, providing both stability during operation and flexibility during extreme weather events.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed hydroelectric structures are deployed, then stable power generation is achieved, but the systems cannot adapt to water level changes and lack portability
Solution Approach 1:
The floating platform system uses buoyancy as a counteracting force to gravitational changes in water levels. The flotation members provide upward buoyant force that balances the weight of the platform and equipment, allowing the structure to rise and fall with water levels while maintaining stable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system acts as an intermediary between the floating platform and the riverbed/embankment. It provides stable attachment points while allowing the platform to move vertically, mediating between the need for stability and the need for adaptability to water level changes.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional power generation structures are used, then electricity is generated, but the structures are not aesthetically pleasing and difficult to deploy
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components (platforms, turbines, generators, anchoring systems) that can be manufactured separately and assembled in various configurations. This modularity improves ease of deployment and allows adaptation to different water bodies while maintaining power generation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The floating platform design serves multiple functions: it supports power generation equipment, provides a stable base for turbines, and can be deployed in various water bodies (rivers, lakes, oceans). The system's versatility allows it to be adapted to different environments without sacrificing productivity.
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 efficiently harnesses underwater current energy, providing a resilient and aesthetically pleasing means of generating electrical power that can be easily deployed and adapted to various water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and oceans, while withstanding natural disasters.
Implementation Method 1
at least one turbine extending below the platform, wherein the at least one turbine is positioned within an underwater current stream
Implementation Method 2
at least one electrical generator positioned upon the platform and mechanically connected to the turbine to receive the rotational torque to be converted to electrical energy
Implementation Method 3
one or more flotation members, a platform connected to the flotation members such that the platform is supported at least partially above a water surface
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power generation system for harvesting underwater river currents which generally includes one or more flotation members, a platform connected to the flotation members such that the platform is supported at least partially above a water surface of a river, at least one turbine extending below the platform, wherein the at least one turbine is positioned within an underwater current stream and generally comprised of an inverted wind turbine structure, at least one electrical generator positioned upon the platform and mechanically connected to the turbine to receive the rotational torque to be converted to electrical energy, wherein the electrical energy is transferred to an electrical grid distribution system, and an anchoring system having a rigid stabilization rod pivotally connected on each end for securing the platform to the embankment such as to permit the platform to rise and fall with the water surface of the river.