Underwater Turbine Cable Connection for Rotation Without Snagging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional underwater turbine systems face challenges in efficiently capturing water current energy due to the need for complex ancillary features like yaw capability and high maintenance costs, particularly in deep sea environments, and existing connection systems are prone to cable snagging and over-bending when dealing with both rotation and linear movement.
Innovation Solution
A connection system that includes a cable carrier and connector carrier with a reverse bend radius chain, allowing for both rotational and linear movement, with a control system to prevent excessive tension and damage by using switches to detect and manage the rotation range, and an emergency control system to disengage connectors in case of over-rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional connection systems with flexible cables are used to allow rotation and linear movement, then rotational freedom is achieved, but cable snagging and over-bending occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible cable carrier system with controlled cable routing that allows the cable to flex within defined parameters without snagging or over-bending. The cable carrier acts as a flexible structure that guides the cable through rotation and linear movement while maintaining proper bend radius and preventing damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary cable management system between the rotating turbine unit and the stationary support structure. This intermediary system includes cable carriers, guide pulleys, and tensioning mechanisms that mediate the movement between the two endpoints, preventing direct cable snagging and over-bending while maintaining rotational freedom.
2Productivity
If turbines are arranged in arrays to capture water current energy effectively, then energy capture efficiency is improved, but installation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates self-aligning and self-adjusting features in the connection system that reduce the need for manual intervention during installation and maintenance. The system automatically compensates for misalignments and adjusts cable tension, enabling easier servicing of turbines in arrays without requiring expensive deep-sea intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic connection systems with movable and adjustable components that can adapt to varying operational conditions. This dynamic design allows for easier maintenance and reconfiguration of turbine arrays, reducing installation and maintenance costs while maintaining effective energy capture.
Data Source
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AI summary
A water current power generation system includes a connection system (1) that provides electrical connections between a power generating unit and a support structure. The system includes a control system (70) that operates to break such a connection should the relative rotation between the power generating unit and the support structure reach a predetermined amount.