Pipe Flow Power Generation With Feedback-Based Flow Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy consumption patterns lead to inefficiencies and increased strain on infrastructure and the environment, particularly in households, where energy waste is not effectively targeted or reduced.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a processor and power generation components that can be coupled to pipes to generate electricity from flowing materials like natural gas, water, or sewage, while also monitoring flow rates and regulating material flow based on external conditions using sensors and AI for enhanced efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If power generation components are added to generate electricity from material flow, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power generation components with existing pipe infrastructure, merging two functions (material transport and electricity generation) into a single integrated system. The power generation component is positioned within the pipe to utilize the kinetic energy of flowing materials without requiring separate infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it generates electricity from material flow, monitors flow rates, and regulates material flow based on external conditions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and improves overall energy efficiency.
2Loss of energy
If flow monitoring and regulation components are integrated into the pipe system, then energy waste is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that monitor flow rates and external conditions, feeding this information back to the processor. The processor then adjusts the power generation component and flow regulation to optimize energy efficiency and reduce waste, creating a closed-loop control system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically monitors its own performance and adjusts operations without external intervention. The processor uses sensor data to self-regulate flow rates and power generation, enabling the system to optimize energy efficiency autonomously.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the system regulates material flow based on external conditions, then energy efficiency is enhanced, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual operation with an automated electronic control system. The processor receives input from sensors monitoring external conditions and automatically adjusts power generation and flow regulation, eliminating the need for manual intervention while enhancing energy efficiency.
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 system effectively reduces energy waste by generating power from existing material flows and optimizing flow regulation, thereby enhancing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
a power generation component that generates power from material flowing through the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques regarding material flow regulation and power generation are provided herein. For example, one or more embodiments described herein can regard a device or system for regulating material flow and power generation. The system can comprise a processor that executes computer executable components stored in a memory. The system can also comprise a coupling component which can secure the system to a pipe. The system can further comprise a power generation component that can generate power from material flowing through the pipe and a power output component which can output power generated by the power generation component.