Hydrokinetic Generator Floating Platform Tidal Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Remote areas like Southeast Alaska lack viable renewable energy sources due to unfavorable geology and protected marine life, making traditional wind, solar, and hydroelectric power generation impractical, and thus rely heavily on fossil fuels for electricity production.
Innovation Solution
A submerged hydrokinetic generator system that uses tidal energy, featuring a floating platform with suspended generator assemblies and a shield to protect aquatic life, allowing for directional stability and high-efficiency energy harvesting without the need for seafloor installation, suitable for extreme depths and sensitive ecosystems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional renewable energy sources (wind, solar, hydroelectric) are used, then environmental benefits are achieved, but geological and environmental constraints make them infeasible in remote areas like Southeast Alaska
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a floating platform as an intermediary structure that enables hydrokinetic energy generation in deep water environments where traditional renewable energy sources cannot be installed. The platform serves as a mediator between the water current and the generator assembly, allowing the system to operate in remote coastal areas without requiring seafloor installation or favorable geological conditions for traditional renewables
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by transitioning from traditional fixed-location renewable energy installations to mobile floating platforms that can be deployed in deep water channels with strong tidal currents. This parameter change allows adaptation to environments previously unsuitable for renewable energy generation
2Reliability
If fossil fuels are burned for electricity generation, then reliable power is provided, but environmental damage and high costs occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the strong tidal currents, which are natural environmental features, into useful electrical energy. By harnessing the kinetic energy of moving water through the floating hydrokinetic system, the invention transforms what could be considered a neutral natural phenomenon into a beneficial energy source that replaces fossil fuels and reduces environmental harm
3Reliability
If seafloor installation is used for traditional hydroelectric power, then stable energy generation is achieved, but it is impractical in extreme depths and sensitive ecosystems
Solution Approach 1:
The floating platform uses buoyancy as a counterweight force to offset the weight of the generator assembly and resist the pull of gravity in deep water environments. This allows the system to remain stable and operational in extreme depths without requiring seafloor installation, as the buoyant force balances the gravitational force on the submerged components
4Productivity
If directional stability is improved for the submerged generator, then water flow through the turbine is optimized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric blade design on the turbine to optimize water flow capture and conversion efficiency. The asymmetric blade geometry is specifically configured to maximize the extraction of kinetic energy from the water current while maintaining directional stability, achieving high productivity without requiring complex additional stabilization mechanisms
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 a stable and efficient means of generating electricity from tidal energy, reducing environmental impact and economic costs, while being economically competitive with fossil fuel generation, and suitable for locations where traditional renewable energy methods are not feasible.
Implementation Method 1
A submerged hydrokinetic generator system that uses tidal energy
Implementation Method 2
directs water through a high efficiency impeller or turbine
Implementation Method 3
a first generator mounted inside the first housing
Implementation Method 4
a flotation support structured to float on the water
Data Source
AI summary
A hydrokinetic electric generator system for use in water that includes a first generator located inside a submersible first housing with fore and aft sections with respective fore and aft attachment points, a center of mass of the first generator located between the fore and aft attachment points, the first generator having a shaft extending out the aft section of the first housing with a turbine attached to the shaft, a flotation support structured to float on the water, and a first cable having a first end attached to the flotation support and a second end attached to the first attachment point on the fore section, and a second cable having a first end attached to the flotation support and a second end attached to the second attachment point in a manner to permit the system to change position in response to changes in direction of water current.