Hot-Tap Turbine Assembly for In-Pipe Power Generation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing turbine generators in fluid conduits require shutting down the water flow, which is costly and time-consuming, and are not suitable for critical systems like communal water systems, where rerouting electrical cables or using batteries with finite lifetimes is impractical.
Innovation Solution
A turbine assembly with a turbine housing and connecting member that allows for hot-tapping installation within existing fluid conduits under pressure, enabling the turbine to be efficiently and reliably positioned in the path of fluid flow without disrupting the water system, using a process that involves a valve member and saddle clamp for sealing and alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If existing methods of installation are used (removing conduit section), then the turbine can be installed in the fluid conduit, but the water flow must be stopped which is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The installation system is divided into separate components: a saddle clamp that attaches to the external surface of the conduit, a valve member with a drillable opening, and a turbine assembly. This segmentation allows installation without removing sections of the conduit, eliminating the need to stop water flow while still enabling turbine installation through the drillable opening in the valve member.
2Ease of manufacture
If the conduit is cut and portion removed for installation, then the turbine can be installed, but the process is costly and requires stopping water flow
Solution Approach 1:
The saddle clamp and valve member assembly act as an intermediary structure that attaches to the external surface of the conduit. This intermediary provides a drillable opening through which the turbine can be installed without cutting into or removing sections of the conduit, thereby maintaining system integrity and allowing continuous water flow during installation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If batteries are used to power sensor systems, then power can be provided to devices in pipes, but batteries have finite lifetime requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The turbine generator serves as a self-service power source by converting the kinetic energy of the flowing water directly into electrical energy at the location where it is needed. This eliminates the need for external power sources like batteries that require replacement, as the system generates its own power continuously as long as water flows through the conduit.
4Use of energy by moving object
If rerouting of mains electrical cables is done, then power can be provided to sensor systems, but it is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The turbine generator provides self-service power generation by converting water flow energy directly into electricity at the sensor system location. This eliminates the need for expensive rerouting of mains electrical cables, as the system generates its own power locally without requiring external electrical infrastructure 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
Enables the generation of electrical power from fluid flow in existing conduits without the need to remove sections of the conduit, reducing installation costs and time, and allowing for continuous operation of water systems during installation.
Implementation Method 1
Turbine generators are used to generate electrical energy from mechanical energy. A hydro or water turbine generator converts the energy from a moving flow of water in to electrical energy.
Implementation Method 2
A hydro or water turbine generator converts the energy from a moving flow of water in to electrical energy
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An assembly for generating electrical power from a fluid flow being installable to a fluidic conduit comprising a fluid, the assembly comprising a turbine for generating power from the fluid flow, the turbine provided within a turbine body, a connecting member having a proximal portion attached to a distal portion of the turbine body and 5a distal portion comprising a cap, a separate enclosure for housing the turbine and turbine body, the enclosure slidably receiving the connecting member through a distal portion, the cap of the connecting member being securable to the enclosure. The enclosure is connectable to a valve member, the valve member and the enclosure for provision external to the fluidic conduit comprising the fluid.