Floating Power Generation System With Scotch Yoke Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrokinetic power generation systems are typically secured to fixed structures, making them vulnerable to damage during storms or high-turbulent water flows.
Innovation Solution
A floating power generation system utilizing a scotch yoke mechanism coupled with a generator, actuated by a fin assembly with multiple fins that pivot from a first to a second position in response to water flow, allowing the system to move freely and absorb varying water flow conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the hydrokinetic power generation system is secured to a fixed supporting structure, then the system can maintain stable power generation under normal conditions, but the system becomes vulnerable to damage during storms or high-turbulent water flows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a static fixed-support structure to a dynamic floating platform that can move with water currents and waves. The floating platform is moored with flexible mooring lines that allow the system to dynamically adjust its position and orientation, absorbing the energy of storms and turbulent flows rather than rigidly resisting them, thereby preventing damage while maintaining operational reliability.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the system is made free-floating to avoid damage from extreme conditions, then the system can move with water flow, but the system may lose positional stability relative to land or fixed supports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mooring lines as an intermediary element between the floating platform and fixed anchors on the seabed. These mooring lines provide a flexible connection that constrains the platform's movement within an acceptable operational envelope while allowing it to move freely enough to avoid storm damage. The mooring system acts as a mediator that balances the competing requirements of freedom of movement and positional stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If the fins are fixed at a preset angle, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot optimize energy production under varying water flow rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements adjustable fin angles that can be dynamically modified based on water flow conditions. The fin assembly includes mechanisms to change the pitch and orientation of individual fins or groups of fins, allowing the system to optimize its hydrodynamic performance across a range of flow rates. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to maintain high efficiency whether the water flow is slow or fast, eliminating the trade-off between structural simplicity and productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A floating power generation system incorporates a scotch yoke mechanism that is coupled with an electrical generator to produce power and is actuated by a fin assembly having a plurality of fins that move or pivot from a first pivot position to a second pivot position. The fins are coupled with the yoke of the scotch yoke by a cable to move the yoke back and forth in a reciprocating motion. As the fins move back and forth from one side of the water flow direction to the other, the yoke reciprocates and turns the flywheel to produce electrical power. The floating power generation system may employ two fin assemblies, wherein a first fin assembly directs water through the plurality of first fins into the plurality of second fins of the second fin assembly to force the second fins in an opposing pivot orientation from said first fins.