Hydro-kinetic Vane System for Oscillatory Wave Energy Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydro-kinetic energy systems are limited by geographical constraints, inefficiency, and high costs, particularly when harnessing oscillatory wave energy, as they require significant water flow and are bulky, which restricts the capture of available wave energy.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a central axle with rotating vanes having C-shaped or U-shaped flow channels that rotate between open and closed positions to maximize thrust force from water flow, converting rotational motion into electrical energy, while minimizing structural weight and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional propeller-type generators are used, then energy conversion is achieved, but the system requires minimum water flow of a few meters per second and is greatly restricted by geographical location
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic vanes that can rotate between open and closed positions based on water flow conditions. The vanes transition from a closed configuration (perpendicular to flow) to an open configuration (parallel to flow), allowing the system to adapt to varying water flow rates and geographical locations, thereby resolving the contradiction between energy generation capability and geographical adaptability
2Power
If vertical falling water is used to harness hydro-kinetic energy, then energy can be harnessed, but the use is largely limited by the use of an existing natural fall or by building a dam
Solution Approach 1:
The system utilizes natural water flow directly without requiring external infrastructure like dams. The vanes are designed to automatically respond to water flow conditions, converting kinetic energy from the flowing water itself without needing artificial elevation or storage structures, thereby eliminating the need for complex dam construction while maintaining effective power extraction
3Productivity
If conventional wave energy harnessing methods are used, then part of available energy can be captured, but the system needs to withstand incoming thrust which adds to weight and bulkiness resulting in low efficiency and high cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic vanes that can rotate between open and closed positions based on water flow conditions. The vanes transition from a closed configuration (perpendicular to flow) to an open configuration (parallel to flow), allowing the system to adapt to varying water flow rates and geographical locations, thereby resolving the contradiction between energy generation capability and geographical adaptability
4Force
If the panel is in the closed position, then maximum thrust force is applied by moving water to the panel, but the panel rotates against the first direction of moving water requiring minimum thrust force
Solution Approach 1:
The panel rotates periodically between closed and open positions in response to oscillating water flow. During the closed position, maximum thrust force is captured; during the open position, the panel rotates against the flow direction with minimum thrust force. This periodic rotation allows the system to harness energy from oscillatory wave motion while maintaining manageable mechanical complexity through the natural periodic nature of the motion
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 generation efficiency, reduces system weight and cost, and allows for harnessing lower flow rates, enabling effective capture of oscillatory wave energy with improved structural integrity and durability.
Implementation Method 1
Systems, devices, and methods are described for harnessing hydro-kinetic energy
Implementation Method 2
the thrust force applied by the moving water to the panel is maximum
Implementation Method 3
The generator is configured to convert the rotational motion of the plurality of vanes into electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for harnessing hydro-kinetic energy. The system includes a single central axle, a plurality of vanes, and a generator. The plurality of vanes may be configured to rotate about the central axle. Each vane may include a frame and a panel rotatably attached the frame. The panel may comprise a plurality of channels having a C-shaped cross-section. Movement of surrounding water may cause the panel to rotate relative to the frame between an open and closed position. The generator may be configured to convert the rotational motion of the plurality of vanes into electrical energy.