Tidal Wind Wave Energy System Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for power generation using tidal, wave, and wind energy face inconsistencies due to periodic lulls in energy extraction, such as low tides, wind gusts, or fluctuations in water flow velocity, leading to inefficiencies and reduced power output.
Innovation Solution
The proposed system utilizes a combination of tidal, wind, and wave energy harvesting, storage, and regeneration methods. This includes modifying estuaries and tidal shelves to create flow channels with turbines, using power split transmission couplings and flywheels to stabilize energy output, and employing water wheels and hydraulic pumps to capture wave energy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If turbines are used to harness tidal and wind energy, then power generation is achieved, but periodic lulls in energy extraction occur due to low tides, wind gusts, or fluctuations in water flow velocity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple energy harvesting systems (tidal turbines, wind turbines, wave energy converters) into a single integrated platform. This merging allows the system to capture energy from different sources simultaneously or sequentially, compensating for the periodic lulls in individual energy sources and ensuring continuous power generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts operational parameters of different turbines and energy converters based on real-time energy availability. When tidal or wind energy is low, the system shifts to alternative energy sources or adjusts storage mechanisms to maintain consistent power output, effectively changing operational parameters to compensate for energy fluctuations.
2Reliability
If energy storage systems are implemented, then energy output is stabilized, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system serves multiple functions: it stores excess energy from peak production periods, provides backup power during lulls, stabilizes output for the grid, and enables regenerative braking. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems and justifies the added complexity through versatile utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor energy production, storage levels, and consumption in real-time. This feedback enables automatic adjustment of energy harvesting and storage operations, optimizing performance and reducing the need for complex manual control systems.
3Reliability
If multiple energy sources are integrated, then energy extraction consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated energy system is divided into separate modular components (tidal turbine modules, wind turbine modules, wave energy converter modules), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows for simplified design, maintenance, and scaling while enabling the system to function reliably even if individual modules are unavailable.
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 achieves reliable and consistent power generation by leveraging predictable tidal energy and stabilizing wind and wave energy inputs, thereby minimizing downtime and maximizing energy output.
Implementation Method 1
turbines to harness energy from running water and/or wind energy for conversion to electrical power
Implementation Method 2
using power split transmission couplings and flywheels to stabilize energy output
Implementation Method 3
employing water wheels and hydraulic pumps to capture wave energy
Implementation Method 4
employing water wheels and hydraulic pumps to capture wave energy
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems and apparatuses including systems and methods that can be used for operating a water turbine such as along one or more flow channels of a tidal estuary for power generation is disclosed. The water turbine can be positioned within the one or more flow channels and can be turned by the flow of the water from the estuary.