Submersible Turbo-Generator with Pneumatic Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing turbo-generator devices for artificial aquifer recharge face challenges such as complexity in preventing air bubbles and overpressures, and difficulty in external control due to their depth and design, which can lead to leaks and operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A turbo-generator device with a cylindrical tube and submersible asynchronous motor, equipped with a pneumatic valve that can be controlled externally to manage fluid flow, preventing air bubbles and allowing for both recharge and extraction of aquifer fluid, featuring a simple and reliable design with minimal maintenance needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a turbo-generator device is placed at great depth in an aquifer for recharge, then energy generation capability is improved, but control difficulty increases and reliability decreases due to inability to prevent overpressures and air bubbles
Solution Approach 1:
A pneumatic control line acts as an intermediary between the surface control system and the submerged valve. This flexible pneumatic conduit transmits compressed air pressure from the surface to operate the valve at depth, enabling remote control without electrical connections or complex mechanical linkages through the water column.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electrical or mechanical control systems with a pneumatic actuation system. The valve is operated by compressed air pressure transmitted through a flexible pneumatic line from the surface, eliminating the need for electrical motors, sensors, or complex mechanical linkages at the submerged device.
2Productivity
If fluid is introduced rapidly into the aquifer for recharge, then productivity is improved, but air bubbles and overpressures are generated causing device failure
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is pre-positioned and pre pressurized with compressed air through the pneumatic line before fluid introduction begins. This preliminary action ensures the valve is ready to control flow precisely from the start, preventing sudden pressure surges and air bubble formation that would occur with uncontrolled rapid introduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates pressure sensing and control mechanisms that monitor aquifer pressure conditions and provide feedback to the pneumatic valve control. This feedback loop allows the valve to automatically adjust flow rates to maintain safe pressure levels, preventing overpressurization while maximizing recharge productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a process for generating energy in aquifer recharge and the turbo-generator device associated therewith, comprising at least one cylindrical tube (1) open at its ends internally comprising: at least one hydraulic turbine (2) coupled to at least one submersible asynchronous motor (3), at least one valve (6) which is coupled to one of the ends of said at least one cylindrical tube (1) which allows opening/shutting off the fluid flow through said at least one cylindrical tube (1), wherein said at least one valve (6) can be operated by a user through operating means which can be controlled from outside said device.