In-tank Turbine Steady State Fluid Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closed turbine systems face challenges in maintaining a steady state between air and water levels within a tank, leading to backpressure issues and inefficient rotor operation, as well as the need for continuous lighter fluid infusion to prevent fluid mixing and maintain purity.
Innovation Solution
The method involves customizing tank shape, volume, and pipe placement, using a formula to maintain a predefined ratio of lighter and heavier fluid volumes, allowing for modular extensions and microprocessor control to adjust fluid levels and pressures, ensuring equilibrium without continuous lighter fluid injection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the heavier fluid level is increased to prevent lighter fluid escape, then fluid mixing is prevented, but rotor efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the tank volume variable rather than fixed. The tank can adjust its volume to accommodate different fluid levels dynamically, allowing the system to maintain optimal conditions for both fluid separation and rotor operation. This resolves the contradiction by enabling the heavier fluid level to be high enough to prevent mixing while low enough to avoid interfering with the rotor, as the tank volume adapts to the specific operational requirements.
2Reliability
If continuous lighter fluid infusion is used to maintain steady state, then fluid purity is maintained, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by designing a system where the tank's variable volume automatically maintains the appropriate fluid levels and steady state conditions without requiring continuous external infusion of lighter fluid. The system self-regulates to maintain fluid purity and equilibrium, eliminating the need for complex continuous infusion equipment and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed tank volume is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to pressure scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed tank volume to a variable tank volume that can adapt to different pressure scenarios. While this increases manufacturing complexity compared to a fixed tank, it provides the necessary adaptability to handle varying pressure conditions in different installation locations. The variable volume design allows the system to optimize performance for specific pressure ranges while maintaining a relatively simple overall construction approach.
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 approach achieves a stable equilibrium state that maintains rotor efficiency and prevents fluid mixing, allowing the system to operate for at least one minute without additional lighter fluid, while accommodating varying pressure scenarios and flow rates.
Implementation Method 1
an air space, also called a 'lighter fluid space,' these terms used interchangeably herein, interacts with a tank in which the turbine is enveloped... and the water, also called a 'heavier fluid space,' these terms used interchangeably herein
Data Source
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AI summary
An optimal in-tank turbine requires a tank connected to the piping system at both ends with a space for a lighter fluid inside the tank in addition to the heavier fluid passing through the pipes and causing the rotor to operate, Such a tank can reach a steady state with the presence of a lighter fluid inside the tank if certain conditions are met.