Modular Run-of-River Power Plant with Debris Rake
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction of run-of-river power plants is costly and prone to accidents due to the need for extensive river diversion and foundation pit excavation, especially when dealing with rivers with bedrock or debris like stones and driftwood, requiring a solution that is easy to build, cost-efficient, and insensitive to such obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A modular design where each module contains a turbine and generator connected by a suction pipe, allowing for independent installation and operation, with a rake system that prevents debris accumulation and allows for easy maintenance, and the use of permanent sheet pile walls for support, reducing the need for extensive foundation excavation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a conventional dam structure with multiple energy units is used, then the power plant can generate energy, but the construction becomes costly and complex requiring extensive river diversion and foundation excavation
Solution Approach 1:
The power plant is divided into multiple independent modules, each containing its own energy unit (turbine and generator). These modules are arranged in series along the river flow and can be installed independently, eliminating the need for extensive river diversion and complex foundation work. Each module is self-contained and can be erected sequentially starting from the shore.
2Ease of manufacture
If extensive foundation excavation and river diversion are performed, then the power plant can be constructed, but construction time and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The modules are pre-assembled on land with all necessary components (turbine, generator, housing) prepared beforehand. This allows parallel preparation of multiple modules before installation, significantly reducing on-site construction time. The preliminary assembly includes pre-installing the energy units in their respective module housings.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the power plant into independent modules that can be installed sequentially rather than requiring simultaneous construction of a large dam structure, the overall construction timeline is compressed while maintaining construction ease.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the power plant is designed to handle bedrock riverbeds, then it can be constructed on various terrains, but the means to be implemented become particularly large and costly
Solution Approach 1:
Each module is designed with a localized foundation solution that adapts to the specific riverbed conditions at its installation location. The modules can be anchored directly to the riverbed using simple anchoring devices that work with various substrates including bedrock, without requiring extensive excavation or specialized foundation structures for each terrain type.
4Ease of operation
If the power plant structure is made visible above water, then it can be accessed for maintenance, but it disturbs the river course and is aesthetically displeasing
Solution Approach 1:
The module housings are designed to be movable or adjustable structures that can be positioned partially above water during maintenance operations and then returned to a submerged or low-profile position during normal operation. This dynamic positioning allows maintenance access when needed while minimizing environmental disturbance and visual impact during operation.
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 modular approach reduces construction costs and time, minimizes the impact on the river environment, and allows for gradual expansion of the power plant, while maintaining cleanliness and reducing maintenance costs through integrated debris management.
Implementation Method 1
Each module carries at least one energy unit, comprising a turbine and a generator
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a run-of-river power plant with the following components or features:at least one module or several stand-alone modules, which are arranged close to one another in the flow direction, respectively comprising at least one energy unit;each energy unit comprises a water turbine and a generator;every module includes an upstream retaining wall as well as a downstream bearing wall;an intermediate space is situated between both walls;a rake, which extends between the upper edge of the retaining wall and the upper edge of the bearing wall and covers the intermediate space;a suction channel is connected to the energy unit.