In-Pipe Generator Using Fluid Momentum for Leak-Tight Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for an in-pipe generator system that can produce electrical current using the momentum of a fluid without creating holes in preexisting pipes, ensuring leak-tight integrity and safety, particularly in environments with hydrocarbons, oxygen, or volatile gases.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a non-magnetic section of pipe with a flux guide and coils, a non-rotating stator, and rotating rare earth magnets, which are energized by fluid momentum to generate electrical current, using a non-rotating stator and rotating device with fan blades to focus magnetic flux into coils, producing 6-48 volts of electricity without combustion or compromising pipeline integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If holes are created in preexisting pipes to install generator components, then generator installation is enabled, but pipeline leak-tight integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The generator components (magnets, coils, stator) are nested within the existing pipe interior space. The non-magnetic pipe section serves as a container housing all generator elements, allowing installation without external modifications to the pipeline structure.
Solution Approach 2:
A non-magnetic pipe section is used as a flexible containment shell that can be inserted into the existing pipeline. This shell provides a leak-tight barrier while allowing the magnetic field to pass through, solving both the installation and integrity problems.
2Power
If magnetic materials are used in the generator components, then electromagnetic generation is enabled, but magnetic flux interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
Different sections of the generator have different magnetic properties. The stator and pipe are made non-magnetic to allow flux passage, while the rotor contains magnetic materials concentrated in specific locations (magnet positions) to generate the required magnetic field without unnecessary interference.
Solution Approach 2:
A non-magnetic pipe section acts as an intermediary between the magnetic components and the external environment. This intermediary allows the magnetic field to function internally while preventing magnetic flux interference with external equipment or the pipeline itself.
3Power
If traditional generator installation methods are used, then power generation is achieved, but pipeline integrity and safety are compromised in hazardous environments
Solution Approach 1:
The flowing fluid itself provides the mechanical energy to rotate the rotor through its natural momentum, eliminating the need for external power sources or mechanical connections that would compromise pipeline integrity. The system uses the fluid's own energy to generate electricity.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical power transmission through shafts and gears is replaced with a fluid-driven rotational system. The fluid flow directly rotates the rotor, eliminating complex mechanical connections and reducing safety risks in hazardous environments.
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 solution provides a safe, leak-tight, and pollution-free method for generating electricity in remote sites, capable of powering supervisory control systems, site lighting, and charging electronic devices, while preventing electrocution, explosions, and environmental harm.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating magnetic flux to energize the plurality of coils for generating a current
Implementation Method 2
a flux guide secured to an outer surface of the non-magnetic section of pipe... arranged to focus magnetic flux into the plurality of coils
Data Source
AI summary
A generator system with a generator connected between a first preexisting pipe and a second preexisting pipe. The generating system can have a non-magnetic section of pipe, a flux guide, a plurality of coils, a non-rotating stator a rotating device, a plurality of rare earth, and a controller. Fluid flows through the first preexisting pipe flange towards the second preexisting pipe flange, which causes the rotating device to turn the rotating shaft that rotates the plurality of rare earth magnets to provide a magnetic flux energizing the plurality of coils generating a current of sufficient energy to produce at least six watts continuously.