Exchangeable In-Pipe Turbine Layout for Flow-Preserving Power Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional in-pipe power generators face issues with reduced water flow due to a large rotor occupying pipe cross-section and inconvenient maintenance, as the entire device needs to be removed for repairs.
Innovation Solution
The exchangeable in-pipe power generating device consists of a pipe unit, a base unit, and a power generating unit, where the power generators are disposed on a base portion forming an acute angle with the pipe axis, allowing for easy removal and maintenance, and a protecting unit for protection during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a rotor with blades and magnets is disposed in the pipe to generate power, then electrical energy is generated through electromagnetic induction, but water flow is reduced due to the rotor occupying a large portion of the pipe cross section
Solution Approach 1:
The power generating device is divided into multiple independent power generating units, each with its own rotor and stator assembly. These units are distributed along the pipe length rather than using a single large rotor, reducing the cross-sectional blockage while maintaining total power generation capacity through cumulative effect of multiple units
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single large in-pipe rotor to multiple smaller in-pipe rotors arranged along the pipe length (adding the length dimension). This dimensional change allows power generation distributed along the pipe rather than concentrated at one location, reducing cross-sectional obstruction while maintaining or increasing total power output
2Reliability
If the entire in-pipe power generator is removed for repair when it fails, then maintenance can be performed, but the process is very inconvenient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The power generating device is segmented into multiple independently removable power generating units. When maintenance is needed, only the faulty unit needs to be removed and replaced, rather than removing the entire device. This segmentation enables targeted maintenance of individual units while the rest of the system continues to operate
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a modular replacement strategy where failed power generating units are quickly removed and replaced with spare units. The removed units can then be recovered, repaired externally, and returned to service, creating a efficient maintenance cycle that minimizes system downtime
3Power
If a conventional in-pipe power generator is used, then power generation is achieved, but the device complexity increases and ease of repair decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into standardized modular power generating units that can be independently handled, transported, and replaced. Each module contains complete power generation functionality (rotor, stator, magnets, blades), making them self-contained repair units that simplify maintenance logistics and improve ease of repair
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple power generating units are designed with standardized interfaces and identical functionality. This universality allows any unit to replace any other unit in the system, enabling flexible maintenance strategies where spare units can be swapped in without requiring unit-specific knowledge or custom installation procedures
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
This design enables smooth water flow and facilitates convenient maintenance and repair by allowing the power generating unit to be easily removed from the pipe, improving the overall efficiency and maintenance accessibility compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
a power converting module that is disposed on the first base portion and that is driven by the blade module to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
An exchangeable in-pipe power generating device includes a pipe unit, a base unit, and a power generating unit. The pipe unit includes a pipe body extending along a pipe axial direction, and an opening disposed on the pipe body and extending along the pipe axial direction. The base unit includes a first base portion extending along the pipe axial direction, disposed in the pipe body, and adjacent to the opening. The power generating unit includes a plurality of power generators disposed on the first base portion and spaced apart from one another along the pipe axial direction. Each of the power generators includes a blade module rotatable about a blade axis, and a power converting module driven by the blade module to convert kinetic energy into electrical energy. The blade axis of each of the power generators cooperates with the pipe axial direction to form an acute angle.