River-Structure Hydroelectric Power Generation Without New Construction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrical power generation systems at river and fisheries engineering structures face challenges such as high maintenance and investment costs, and require new constructions, which are prohibited in certain ecological zones.

Innovation Solution

A hydroelectric turbine or Archimedes screw system that can be installed without new constructions, using existing river structure elements for fixation, with a filtration system and adaptable configuration for unhindered navigation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If existing electrical power generation systems are installed at river engineering structures, then renewable energy production is achieved, but new constructions are required which are prohibited in certain ecological zones

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverenewable energy productionVSAvoidinstallation requirement

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system is designed to be universally applicable to existing river engineering structures such as locks, dams, and weirs without requiring new constructions. The power generation unit can be installed on various types of existing structures, making the solution adaptable to different ecological zones while maintaining the ability to generate renewable energy from water flow.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the operational parameters of existing structures by adding power generation capability without altering the fundamental structure. The water flow parameters remain largely unchanged, allowing the system to operate within existing ecological constraints while producing electricity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Power

If traditional power generation systems are installed, then electricity production is achieved, but maintenance and investment costs are high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectricity production capacityVSAvoidmaintenance and investment costs

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The power generation system is divided into modular components including the power generation unit, control system, and installation fixtures. This segmentation allows for easier maintenance, repair, and replacement of individual components without shutting down the entire system, thereby reducing maintenance costs and complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates automatic control features and monitoring capabilities that enable self-diagnosis and self-adjustment, reducing the need for manual intervention and professional maintenance. The control system automatically optimizes operation based on water flow conditions, minimizing the need for expert operators and reducing operational costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Use of energy by moving object

If power generation units are installed on existing structures, then energy production is enabled, but installation time and system downtime are increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy production capabilityVSAvoidinstallation time and downtime

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system is designed with pre-assembled modular units that can be prepared in advance and quickly installed on existing structures. The standardized installation fixtures and mounting mechanisms allow for rapid deployment, minimizing the time the structure is out of service during installation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates quick-connect mechanisms and adjustable mounting systems that allow for fast installation and removal. The power generation unit can be dynamically positioned and secured to various existing structures without requiring extensive construction work, thereby reducing installation time and system downtime.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Facilitates quick installation, reduces downtime, and adapts to various river structures, producing renewable energy while respecting ecological guidelines and avoiding new constructions.

Implementation Method 1

at least one hydroelectric turbine or Archimedes screw which easily adapts to a river structure

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydroelectric power generation: Water Turbine

Implementation Method 2

a turbine or a hydroelectric Archimedes screw used to produce electrical energy

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectArchimedes screw principle: Archimedes Screw

Implementation Method 3

The water intake of the production system includes a filtration system

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhysical filtration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP4582686A1Electrical power generation system for river and fisheries engineering structures

Publication Date: 2025.07.09 REYES FRANCOIS

Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 3C~4(B)

AI summary

Electrical energy production system (100, 200) for a river and fishing structure (900a, 900b) mainly comprising an electrical energy production unit (10, 20) and a means (11, 21) for fixing said system to said structure, said unit comprising a water intake (101, 201), a flow conduit (102, 202), at least one hydroelectric turbine (103, 203), a water outlet (109, 209), said fixing means comprising two inserts (111, 121) intended to install the system (100, 200) in said structure without new constructions or foundations; and that said system, when in a so-called non-operational configuration, allows unhindered navigation at said structure.