Hydrodynamic Generator Duct and Anchoring for Modular Energy Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrodynamic energy generation systems face challenges in efficiency, cost, deployment, reliability, and environmental impact, preventing their widespread adoption as reliable power sources.
Innovation Solution
A hydrokinetic system with a duct and anchoring structure that includes a duct with a central passageway and an annular compartment housing mechanical components, ballast tanks, and a slidable carriage for anchoring, featuring multiple rotors with self-feathering blades and a bi-directional design to maximize energy capture, and a modular, autonomous control system for optimal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional hydrodynamic energy generation systems are deployed, then power generation capability is achieved, but efficiency, cost, deployment complexity, reliability and environmental impact issues prevent widespread adoption
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components including the duct structure, rotor assembly, generator, and anchoring system. This segmentation allows for easier deployment, maintenance, and replacement of individual components without affecting the entire system, thereby improving reliability and reducing deployment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates self-adjusting mechanisms such as the self-feathering rotor blades that automatically optimize their angle to capture hydrodynamic forces efficiently. This self-service capability reduces the need for external control systems and manual intervention, enhancing reliability while maintaining power generation capability.
2Productivity
If complex hydrodynamic systems are implemented to maximize power generation, then energy capture efficiency improves, but deployment and maintenance complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements are merged into integrated assemblies. The rotor blades are integrated with the rotor hub, which connects to the generator shaft. The duct structure combines flow guidance, structural support, and anchoring attachment points. This merging reduces the number of separate components to deploy and maintain while preserving energy capture efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The duct structure serves multiple functions: guiding hydrodynamic flow over the rotors, providing structural support for the entire assembly, and serving as the mounting platform for the generator and other components. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying deployment while maintaining high energy capture efficiency.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional anchoring systems are used, then system stability is achieved, but deployment difficulty and environmental impact increase
Solution Approach 1:
The anchoring system is designed to distribute loads evenly across multiple attachment points on the duct structure. The anchor cables are positioned to create balanced tension forces that stabilize the system without creating stress concentrations. This equipotential distribution of forces simplifies the anchoring process while maintaining system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The anchoring system counteracts the buoyant forces and hydrodynamic loads acting on the floating structure. By positioning anchors at strategic locations and using appropriately sized cables, the system achieves stable equilibrium without requiring excessive anchoring strength, thereby simplifying deployment while ensuring stability.
4Productivity
If mechanical components are housed in the duct to maximize energy conversion, then power generation efficiency improves, but maintenance access and system reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The generator and other mechanical components are nested within the duct structure, utilizing the internal volume of the duct for housing. This nesting arrangement maximizes the use of available space within the duct, allowing efficient power generation while keeping components protected. Access points are provided in the duct structure for maintenance of nested components without requiring complete system disassembly.
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 provides efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly power generation with minimal maintenance, capable of operating unobtrusively in various water environments, including rivers and oceans, and supports on-demand power applications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one ballast tank positioned in the annular compartment
Implementation Method 2
a rotor (turbine or propeller)... which takes kinetic energy of flow from the marine current and converts the taken energy into electrical energy
Implementation Method 3
converts the taken energy into electrical energy... drive electrical generators contained in water-tight machine rooms
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~3
AI summary
This disclosure is directed to hydrodynamic electric generators, including their structural design, methods of deployment, anchoring systems, drive systems and control systems. The system can be scaled from ones that can be hand carried to large, stationary devices that can generate up to and greater than 20 kw in a current of 3 knots. In a stationary system, the device can be anchored to an underwater floor by an anchoring device supported by four adjustable legs. These legs can eliminate the need for extensive mooring lines, providing the device with a small footprint that is non-hazardous to marine animals or vegetation. Individual components, such as rotors, generators and other mechanical components can be modularly installed for easy removal and servicing without having to disturb the entire system.