Oscillating Flow Turbine with Segmented Energy Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ocean wave energy extraction systems face high capital outlay and low efficiency due to the inefficiency of current turbines, which limits the return on investment and energy extraction.
Innovation Solution
A turbine design with a housing, energy conversion unit, and flow control means that allows the working fluid to act on different operating sections based on flow direction, utilizing a rotor with crescent-shaped blades and guide vanes to optimize energy capture and conversion, enabling efficient energy extraction from oscillating airflow in ocean wave energy systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional turbines are used in ocean wave energy extraction systems, then the system can be set up with existing technology, but the energy extraction efficiency is low and capital outlay is high
Solution Approach 1:
The turbine is divided into multiple energy conversion units, each with specific operating sections that can be selectively activated. The flow passage is segmented into multiple sections, allowing the working fluid to be directed to different operating sections based on flow direction and conditions, thereby optimizing energy extraction from oscillating airflow
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control means is made movable to dynamically change the configuration of the flow passage between different configurations. This allows the system to adapt to oscillating flow conditions by selectively directing the working fluid to appropriate operating sections, maximizing energy capture while minimizing losses
2Productivity
If traditional turbines are used, then the system structure is simpler, but the return on investment is limited due to low efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The turbine incorporates multiple energy conversion units with distinct operating sections within a single housing. Each unit can be independently controlled through the flow control means, allowing selective activation based on operating conditions. This segmentation enables higher overall efficiency without requiring multiple separate turbine systems
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control means serves multiple functions: it directs working fluid to different operating sections, optimizes energy extraction efficiency, and adapts to oscillating flow conditions. The single turbine structure performs the work of multiple traditional turbines by selectively activating different operating sections
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 turbine achieves improved efficiency by capturing and converting more oscillating airflow into rotational energy, increasing electricity generation by 20-25% compared to traditional systems, making it a more viable and efficient option for ocean wave energy extraction.
Implementation Method 1
a rotor (32) having a central hub (34) and a plurality of blades (35) arranged about and extending from the periphery of the hub (34) such that the plurality of blades (35) are disposed within the flow passage (5)... Each blade (35) has a pressure side surface and a suction side surface. Preferably, each pressure side surface is concave. Each suction side surface is preferably convex.
Implementation Method 2
a first stator or nozzle is disposed on a first side of the rotor for directing working fluid flowing in the first direction towards the pressure side of the blades of the rotor
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to a turbine for extracting energy from an oscillating working fluid. The turbine includes a housing defining a flow passage for the working fluid. An energy conversion unit is disposed in the housing. Flow control means is selectively movable to occlude a predetermined portion of the flow passage such that the working fluid is directed to act on a certain section of the energy conversion unit.