Subsea Power Generation via Cable-Driven Turbine Depth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for harnessing energy from natural fluid streams, such as tidal and wind power, face high costs and inefficiencies due to unpredictable energy sources and environmental concerns, with existing technologies failing to effectively convert and store energy for consistent power generation.
Innovation Solution
A power generation system utilizing rotating elements within fluid currents to drive cables connected to power generators, with adjustable buoyancy mechanisms allowing depth control and remote operation, enabling efficient energy conversion and storage through a network of floating members and cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If turbines are used to convert tidal energy into electric power, then energy conversion is achieved, but the apparatus cost becomes prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical turbine systems with a simpler direct-drive system where a rotor connected to a generator is directly driven by tidal current through a streamlined body, eliminating the need for complex turbine mechanisms while maintaining energy conversion capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters by allowing the device to operate at different depths in the tidal stream, optimizing the flow velocity and direction for energy capture, which improves efficiency without requiring complex apparatus
2Reliability
If energy storage systems are implemented for peak periods, then energy restoration is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically adjusts its depth position in the tidal stream to capture peak energy during high-velocity periods, using the natural tidal cycle itself to provide the energy restoration function without separate storage systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic depth adjustment mechanism that allows the device to move vertically in the water column, enabling it to optimize its position for energy capture during varying tidal conditions without complex storage infrastructure
3Power
If wind farms are established on land, then power generation is achieved, but extensive land use and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from land-based horizontal space utilization to water-based vertical depth utilization, allowing multiple devices to occupy the same horizontal footprint at different depths, thereby eliminating land use conflicts and reducing infrastructure requirements
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 provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for generating power from fluid currents, offering consistent energy production and minimizing environmental impact by using adjustable depth rotation elements and remote operation, reducing the need for extensive infrastructure and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The buoyancy control mechanism utilizes weights to alter the depth of the body
Implementation Method 2
The buoyancy control mechanism utilizes a compressed gas reservoir surrounded by a segregated bladder to alter the depth of the body
Implementation Method 3
one or more blades which rotate the body in a fluid in reaction to movement of the fluid
Implementation Method 4
The rotation element is able to move to different depths as desired. The power generator is positioned primarily inside of the fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation method and device utilizes fluid currents to generate power by rotating a rotation element which in turn rotates a cable which turns components within a power generator to generate the power. The rotation element is positioned within the fluid and is able to move to different depths as desired. The power generator is positioned inside or outside of the fluid. The rotation element is able to be a helix, helix-propeller, propeller or any other practical design. The rotation element is also able to implement additional components.