Submerged Water Current Power Generation System with Fin-Ring Propellers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater power generation systems from fast-moving water currents face inefficiencies in power generation and stability, and pose environmental risks due to large, heavy structures and cavitation issues, with limited ability to deliver continuous power on a commercial scale while being environmentally friendly.
Innovation Solution
A submerged water current power generation system using induction-type generators with fin-ring propellers and buoyant flotation chambers for efficient power generation and transmission, along with a mooring system for stability and maintenance, allowing for secure and environmentally neutral operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If conventional marine propeller designs are used to capture kinetic energy from water currents, then power generation capability is improved, but the structures become prohibitively large, heavy and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The propeller is divided into multiple blades instead of using a single large conventional propeller. Each blade is independently designed and positioned to optimize kinetic energy capture while reducing the weight and complexity compared to a monolithic conventional propeller design
Solution Approach 2:
The propeller blades are constructed using composite materials that combine lightweight properties with sufficient structural strength. This allows the propeller to achieve the necessary power generation capability without requiring heavy metal construction, thereby reducing overall weight and cost
2Power
If conventional marine propeller designs are used to capture kinetic energy from water currents, then power generation capability is improved, but cavitation issues originate from the tips of the propeller blades
Solution Approach 1:
The propeller blades are designed with varying cross-sectional areas and thicknesses along their length, with specific attention to the tip regions. The local geometry is optimized to reduce stress concentration and prevent cavitation at the blade tips while maintaining overall power generation effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The propeller blade surfaces incorporate curved and streamlined geometries rather than flat surfaces. This curvature design smooths the water flow around the blade tips, reducing turbulence and cavitation while maintaining efficient kinetic energy transfer
3Power
If existing underwater power generating devices are installed at sites with fast current velocities, then power generation is improved, but stability against maximum or velocity currents is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates buoyant flotation chambers that provide upward buoyant force to counteract the downward forces and current pressures acting on the underwater generator structure. This buoyancy support enhances the overall stability of the system against fast-moving currents while allowing continuous power generation at high current velocity sites
4Power
If large expansive areas are used to capture significant kinetic energy from flowing ocean currents, then power generation is improved, but the structures become prohibitively large and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple propeller blades are merged into a single integrated propeller assembly that works together as one unit. This merging allows the system to capture significant kinetic energy from a relatively compact area rather than requiring a large expansive array of separate energy capture devices
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 generates and transfers significant power to a relay station with enhanced stability and environmental safety, overcoming previous inefficiencies and environmental concerns, enabling reliable and scalable renewable energy production.
Implementation Method 1
systems deriving power from fast-moving water currents using an induction-type generator system equipped with one or more fin-ring propellers
Implementation Method 2
induction-type generator system
Implementation Method 3
each of the power generation systems includes at least one or more submerged flotation chambers
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A method of installing and maintaining a submerged water current power generation system 101, 201, 401, 801, said method comprising disposing one or more submerged induction type power generation units 104, 201, 405, 406, equipped with propellers 105, 206,407, 501 capable of rotating around drive shafts in response to water currents in communication with one or more submerged flotation chambers and rotating said power generation units so that the propellers are disposed approximately parallel to the water surface.