СПОСОБ И УСТРОЙСТВО ДЛЯ ПОДТВЕРЖДЕНИЯ ПЕРИФЕРИЙНОГО УСТРОЙСТВА В СИСТЕМЕ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ

Представлена система регулирования уровня жидкости в технологической установке. Система регулирования уровня жидкости содержит: подвижный узел, содержащий стержень, при этом стержень подвижного узла включает в себя ближний конец и дальний конец; поплавок, прикрепленный к дальнему концу стержня; приводной механизм, функционально связанный с подвижным узлом; процессор, связанный с приводным механизмом и выполненный с возможностью перемещения поплавка с помощью подвижного узла; датчик, содержащий вход и выход, причем вход датчика функционально связан с подвижным узлом для приема входного сигнала, представляющего характеристику поплавка или рабочей среды, а выход датчика функционально связан с процессором для создания выходного сигнала, связанного с входным сигналом; запоминающее устройство, связанное с процессором; приводящий в действие модуль, сохраненный в запоминающем устройстве, который, будучи выполняемым в процессоре, приводит в действие приводной механизм; устройство вывода данных, ...

ПРОИЗВОДСТВО ВОДОРОДА ИЗ ГИДРОЭНЕРГИИ

... 1. Турбинная установка для крупномасштабного производства водорода, содержащая конструкцию основания, отделяющую верхний бьеф с большей высотой над уровнем моря от нижнего бьефа с меньшей высотой над уровнем моря, причем конструкция основания образует проходящий через нее проход для воды между входом, примыкающим к верхнему бьефу, и выходом, примыкающим к нижнему бьефу; рабочее колесо, опирающееся с возможностью вращения на основание и размещенное в проходе для воды между входом и выходом, так что вода, протекая через проход в результате перепада давления, вызывает вращение рабочего колеса; генератор, опирающийся на основание и соединенный с рабочим колесом посредством вращающегося вала для выработки электроэнергии при вращении рабочего колеса; и электролизер, электрически соединенный с генератором для получения электроэнергии и производства водорода. 2. Турбинная установка по п.1, в которой проход для воды образован стационарным корпусом, включающим в себя верхнюю крышку, выпускное кольцо ...

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ДЛЯ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ГИДРОЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКИМИ ТУРБИНАМИ

... 1. Система массива гидроэлектрических турбин, содержащая:- массив турбинных систем, причем каждая турбинная система (10) содержит:- гидроэлектрическую турбину (16); и- систему управления, причем система управления имеет:- систему (20) преобразователя, выполненную с возможностью преобразования мощности переменного тока (АС), подаваемой генератором (18), соединенным с гидроэлектрической турбиной (16), и имеющей напряжение и частоту, которые зависят от частоты вращения гидроэлектрической турбины, в мощность переменного тока, имеющую напряжение и частоту системы (22) передачи для передачи мощности переменного тока к приемной подстанции и- модуль (32) управления, при этом модуль управления выполнен с возможностью взаимодействия с системой (20) преобразователя, чтобы регулировать напряжение переменного тока, подаваемого генератором; и- управляющий контроллер (54), при этом управляющий контроллер выполнен с возможностью определения уровня производительности множества гидроэлектрических турбин ...

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ДЛЯ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ГИДРОЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКИМИ ТУРБИНАМИ

... 1. Система управления для управления работой гидроэлектрической турбины (16), причем система управления содержит:систему (20) преобразователя, выполненную с возможностью преобразования мощности переменного тока (AC), подаваемой генератором (18), соединенным с турбиной (16), и имеющей напряжение и частоту, которые зависят от скорости вращения турбины, в мощность переменного тока, имеющую напряжение и частоту системы (22) передачи, для передачи мощности переменного тока к приемной подстанции;причем система дополнительно содержит модуль (32) управления, при этом модуль управления выполнен с возможностью взаимодействия с системой (20) преобразователя, чтобы регулировать напряжение переменного тока, подаваемого генератором в зависимости от скорости потока воды через турбину (16), для управления таким образом вращением турбины;причем система преобразователя содержит преобразователь (26) первой ступени и преобразователь (28) второй ступени, при этом между преобразователями первой ступени и второй ...

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ДЛЯ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ГИДРОЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКИМИ ТУРБИНАМИ

... 1. Система управления для управления работой гидроэлектрической турбины (16), причем система управления содержит:систему (20) преобразователя, выполненную с возможностью преобразования мощности переменного тока (АС), подаваемой генератором (18), соединенным с турбиной (16), и имеющей напряжение и частоту, которые зависят от скорости вращения турбины, в мощность переменного тока, имеющую напряжение и частоту системы (22) передачи, для передачи мощности переменного тока к приемной подстанции;причем система дополнительно содержит модуль (32) управления, при этом модуль управления выполнен с возможностью взаимодействия с системой (20) преобразователя, чтобы регулировать напряжение переменного тока, подаваемого генератором в зависимости от скорости потока воды через турбину (16), для управления, таким образом, вращением турбины;причем система преобразователя дополнительно содержит преобразователь (26) первой ступени и преобразователь (28) второй ступени, при этом между преобразователями первой ...

Verfahren zur Regelung des Wasserdurchflusses von Wasserturbinen

Verfahren und Einrichtung zum Reduzieren der Groesse der voruebergehenden Abweichungen von der Nenndrehzahl von drehzahlgeregelten Maschinen,insbesondere von Wasserturbinen

Tidal stream energy device alignment control

A method is provided for controlling the alignment of a tidal stream energy device. The method includes repeatedly performing at intervals the steps of: measuring the tidal stream flow direction at the device, determining the alignment of the device, comparing the measured flow direction with the determined alignment to determine whether the device is misaligned with the measured flow direction, and changing the alignment of the tidal stream energy device when the comparison shows a misalignment so that the device is better aligned to generate energy for the measured flow direction. The interval is preferably at least 2 minutes and the flow direction can be measured over a volume. The flow direction is monitored to detect anomalies and the flow direction measurement can be adjusted to compensate for the anomalies.

Method of controlling a turbine rotor

Water current power generation structure

Intermittent force powered electromagnetic converters especially for sea waves

A sea wave energy generator includes a permanent magnet mover comprising equally spaced magnets 110 mounted along core 112 interacting with equal width core teeth 120T and equal length coils 130 wound about the core between adjacent teeth. The arrangement maybe such that an armature step is defined by the winding length plus one tooth width and the number of magnets capable of being fully placed within the armature step is equal to an odd number. The height of the teeth, the cross section of the winding wire and/or the number of turns in a coil may increase towards the ends of the stroke of the mover as part of the regulation of the arrangement. Control means include sensors measuring wave's and converter's parameters so as to adaptively regulating electric power production, and absorbing the excessively powerful waves' energy, depending on their changing parameters. The base supporting the generator and the impelling structures may be fixed or floating, and may include cooling circulation ...

Control system for wave energy devices

Method and system for improving energy capture efficiency from an energy capture device

A system for determining the relative angle between an energy capture device e.g. wind turbine 12 or water turbine (110, figure 6) and the direction D of the incident resource W, analyses the downstream fluid wake created by the turbine 12. The system 10 comprises a sensing arrangement 32 configured to acquire air flow data from a downstream wake 34 produced by rotating blades 20 of a wind turbine 12. The sensing arrangement 32 comprises a Lidar unit 35 having an optical source 36 and a receiver 38. The sensing arrangement 32 acquires data relating to the air flow velocity in the wake 34, which data is then processed to determine the alignment of the wind turbine 12 to the wind W.

An Improved Water Turbine Installation.

... 1015. Pßlinkas, I. Feb. 3, 1909, [Convention date]. Plant.-An hydraulic turbine plant comprises a reservoir a under which are arranged a number of turbines, such as d, d<1>, d<2>, e, e<1>, e<2>, on one or more shafts, such as b, c. The turbines are arranged at different heights, and may all be run in series. By-pass pipes l ... l<3> allow any turbine to be used independently of the others, in which case the water is exhausted into an auxiliary reservoir (not shown), and afterwards utilized in a lower turbine. Each turbine is provided with a separate transmission shaft, or all the turbines on one vertical shaft may drive a common horizontal shaft.

Energy release buoyant actuator

System for testing a turbo machine comprising a pair of twin hydraulic turbines.

Energy release buoyant actuator.

Energy release buoyant actuator.

Energy release buoyant actuator.

System for testing a turbo machine comprising a pair of twin hydraulic turbines.

VERFAHREN ZUM BETRIEB VON WASSERKRAFTWERKSANLAGEN

Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Wasserkraftwerksanlage (1) mit einem zu mindestens einer Turbine (3) führenden Kraftwerkszulauf (2), innerhalb welchem eine Rechenvorrichtung (4) zum Auffangen von Schmutzstoffen (11), welche von den Kraftwerkszulauf (2) passierendem Triebwasser (6) mitgeführt werden, angeordnet ist, wobei an der mindestens einen Turbine (3) für eine begrenzte Zeitdauer ein Spülprogramm, d.i. eine vom Regelbetrieb der mindestens einen Turbine (3) abweichende, eine Loslösung von an der Turbine (3) anhaftenden Schmutzstoffen ermöglichende Betriebsführung der Turbine(n) (3) durchgeführt wird. Erfindungsgemäß ist es vorgesehen dass ein durch anhaftende Schmutzstoffe (11) verursachter Verschmutzungsgrad der Rechenvorrichtung (4) ermittelt und als Indikator für einen an der mindestens einen Turbine (3) vorliegenden Verschmutzungsgrad herangezogen wird, wobei das Spülprogramm in Abhängigkeit des ermittelten Verschmutzungsgrades der Rechenvorrichtung (4) ausgelöst wird. Zeitpunkte, Zeitdauer ...

TURBINE

The turbine (2) has a water wheel (25) arranged in a turbine chamber (26), where the water wheel is driven by a flowing medium. A control device is provided for constricting and extending the turbine for driving the flowing medium in a specific flow cross-section through an inflow (29) to the water wheel. The inflow is formed as a nozzle (24), where a partial area of an upper surface is movably guided. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a system with a turbine; and (2) a method for controlling a turbine.

VERFAHREN ZUM BETRIEB VON WASSERKRAFTWERKSANLAGEN

Procedure and mechanism for the enterprise of a turbine or a centrifugal pump, which is driven temporarily without operational funds

Procedure and mechanism for the reduction of the height of the temporary deviations from the rated speed from speed adjusted machines, in particular of water turbines

Variable guide bearing

A guide bearing system including a pad adjuster to traverse at least one bearing in a direction to adjust a radial clearance. The system can further include a sensor for measuring deviations in the radial clearance. In some embodiments, the guide bearing system includes a controller that receives a distance signal from the sensor measuring the radial clearance and signals the pad adjuster to traverse the at least one bearing to compensate for the deviations in the radial clearance.

Method and system for controlling hydroelectric turbines

A control system for controlling an operation of a hydroelectric turbine. The control system comprises a converter system to convert AC power, supplied by a generator connected to the turbine, and having a voltage and frequency that is a function of a rotational speed of the turbine, to AC power having a voltage and frequency of a transmission system for transmitting the AC power to a receiving station. The system further comprises a control unit that is arranged to co-operate with the converter system to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator in response to a water flow speed through the turbine to thereby control rotation of the turbine. The converter system comprises a first-stage converter and a second-stage converter, with a DC link provided between the first and second-stage converters. The first-stage converter is arranged to convert the AC power supplied by the generator to DC power. The second-stage converter is arranged to convert the DC power to the AC Power for transmission ...

Underwater power generator

An underwater power generator (10) comprises a support structure (14) including a pylon (22) having a male boss (24) at an upper end of the pylon (22). A generation unit (12) has a housing (15) and a blade set (16). A female socket (28) is provided on the generation unit (12) and is configured to receive the male boss (24). A rotation unit (30) comprises a motorised pinion (56) mounted on an upper section (50) and a fixed ring gear (58) mounted on a lower section (52), wherein operation of the motorised pinion (56) rotates the upper section (50) relative to the lower section (52) about a yaw axis. A seal arrangement (60) is provided between the upper and lower sections (50, 52) to inhibit the ingress of water into the rotation unit (30).

Method for controlling a wave energy converter system, maximising the power generated

The aim of the invention is to improve the operation of a wave energy converter system, (1, 2) by means of a method for the predictive control of the converter machine (1) which maximises the power generated by taking into account the efficiency of the energy conversions and the prediction of the swell (3).

Device for converting wave energy into useable energy, particularly electrical energy, and associated method

The invention relates to a device (1) for converting the energy of the swell and of waves into useable energy, particularly electrical energy, comprising a float element (2), an oscillating element (3) mounted such that it can move with respect to the float element, the oscillating element (3) being able to be set in relative motion with respect to the float element (2) under the action of the waves on the float element and means (4) for converting the movement of the oscillating element (3) into useable energy, particularly electrical energy, the device (1) also comprising braking means (5) capable selectively of immobilizing or releasing the oscillating element (3) with respect to the float element, clutch means (7) able selectively to couple or to uncouple the conversion means (4) and the oscillating element (3), and control means (8) for controlling the braking means (5) and the clutch means (7) as the swell evolves.

Underwater power generator

An underwater power generator (10) comprises a support structure (14) including a pylon (22) having a male boss (24) at an upper end of the pylon (22). A generation unit (12) has a housing (15) and a blade set (16). A female socket (28) is provided on the generation unit (12) and is configured to receive the male boss (24). A rotation unit (30) comprises a motorised pinion (56) mounted on an upper section (50) and a fixed ring gear (58) mounted on a lower section (52), wherein operation of the motorised pinion (56) rotates the upper section (50) relative to the lower section (52) about a yaw axis. A seal arrangement (60) is provided between the upper and lower sections (50, 52) to inhibit the ingress of water into the rotation unit (30).

AN ENHANCED METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE OUTPUT OF A HYDROELECTRIC TURBINE GENERATOR

There is described a method for controlling the output of a tidal hydroelectric turbine generator (10) from a remote location, without the need for control circuitry to be housed local to the generator. The rotational speed of the turbine (10), and consequently the output power level of the generator, is controlled by varying the transmission line voltage of the submarine power cable (24) connecting the off-shore turbine with an on-shore substation (22).

UNDERWATER POWER GENERATOR

An underwater power generator (10) comprises a support structure (14) including a pylon (22) having a male boss (24) at an upper end of the pylon (22). A generation unit (12) has a housing (15) and a blade set (16). A female socket (28) is provided on the generation unit (12) and is configured to receive the male boss (24). A rotation unit (30) comprises a motorised pinion (56) mounted on an upper section (50) and a fixed ring gear (58) mounted on a lower section (52), wherein operation of the motorised pinion (56) rotates the upper section (50) relative to the lower section (52) about a yaw axis. A seal arrangement (60) is provided between the upper and lower sections (50, 52) to inhibit the ingress of water into the rotation unit (30).

UNDERWATER POWER GENERATOR

A power generation apparatus for generating power from water flows is described. The power generation apparatus includes: a generator; a first blade set operatively mounted to the generator for rotation in a selected direction in response to flowing water from a selected direction; a second blade set operatively mounted to the generator for rotation and operatively connected to the first blade set, the second blade set being disposed coaxially with, and downstream of or in a wake zone of, the first blade set; wherein the generator is adapted to be driven by at least one of the blade sets, the generator being disposed generally coaxially between the first and second blade sets.

APPARATUS FOR GENERATING ELECTRICAL POWER FROM TIDAL WATER MOVEMENT

A tidally driven electricity generator (1) has a series of turbines (2), each of which is mounted under water in an offshore location. Each turbine (2) has blades (3) which are rotated by tidal flow of water, to power a respective generator (4), which outputs AC electrical power via a respective transformer (5) to a cable (6) and appropriate switchgear (7). The cable (6) is connected to a further transformer (8) located onshore, and the transformer (8) is connected to two AC inputs of a drive (9) containing an AC/DC converter, one input (10) of which is connected via a cable to a control feedback device (11). The control feedback device (11) may be a flow meter which determines the velocity of the tidal flow, or may contain look-up tables containing information relating to the velocity of tidal flow at any particular time. The drive (9) outputs DC electrical signals along cabling (13) to DC/AC converter (14), which outputs AC electrical powervia transformer (15) to a fixed frequency local ...

KINETIC MODULAR MACHINE FOR PRODUCING ENERGY FROM FLUID FLOWS

The invention is a kinetic modular machine (M), as in figure 1, producing electricity from flows, either mono or bi-directional, moving at different speeds. The machine (M) consists of one or more turbines (Ti where i = 1,2,......n) "open center", coaxial; a floating/positioning system (F); a connection between machine and docking. Each turbine consists of a rotor (R), a stator (S) and a synchronous generator (G). In any multiple turbines configurations, the turbines are structurally, mechanically and electrically independent. The floating/positioning system (F) system consists of a floater (11), a wing (12) and a fixture linking the machine to the floater (13), implementing the rotational axes (roll, pitch, yaw) control; the wing keeps the machine at a datum distance from the shore and fluid surface. The modular design, as independent turbines solution, allows flexible design, keeping low installation and maintenance costs, even the energy producing during an occurring failure.

METHOD FOR OPERATING A HYDRAULIC MACHINE AND CORRESPONDING INSTALLATION FOR CONVERTING HYDRAULIC ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY

This installation for converting a hydraulic energy into electrical energy comprises a hydraulic adapted to be operated either in a pump mode or in a turbine mode. It further comprises means (25) for applying an electric torque to the rotor to control the rotation speed of the machine during transitions between the pump mode and the turbine mode.

DOWNHOLE POWER GENERATION SYSTEM AND OPTIMIZED POWER CONTROL METHOD THEREOF

A downhole power generation system is disclosed, which includes a turbine generator system. The turbine generator system includes a turbine, a generator coupled with the turbine and having an AC-DC rectifier, and an optimized power control unit. The turbine is driven by flow of a downhole fluid to rotate. The generator converts rotational energy from the turbine to electrical energy and outputting a direct current voltage. The turbine generator system is coupled to a load via the optimized power control unit. The optimized power control unit controls to regulate an output voltage of the generator and provides a regulated output voltage to the load so that the turbine generator system has an optimized power output. An optimized power control method for a downhole power generation system is also disclosed.

ACTIVE IMPEDANCE MATCHING SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER

The invention relates to active impedance matching systems (AIMS) and methods for increasing the efficiency of a wave energy converter (WEC) having a shaft and a shell intended to be placed in a body of water and to move relative to each other in response to forces applied to the WEC by the body of water. The system includes apparatus for: (a) extracting energy from the WEC and producing output electric energy as a function of the movement of the shell (shaft) relative to the shaft (shell): and (b) for selectively imparting energy to one of the shell and shaft for causing an increase in the displacement and velocity (or acceleration) of one of the shell and shaft relative to the other, whereby the net amount of output electrical energy produced is increased. The apparatus for extracting energy and for selectively supplying energy may be implemented using a single device capable of being operated bi-directionally, in terms of both direction and force, or may be implemented by different devices ...

IMPROVEMENTS TO THE STABILIZATION OF HYDRAULIC MACHINES WITH S-ZONE CHARACTERISTICS

This method for stabilizing the rotation speed of a hydraulic machine having S-characteristic and comprising a distributor (9) is adapted to modify a water flow, so that the machine can be coupled to a grid. The method comprises the steps of calculating an orientation of the distributor (9); and orienting the distributor according to the calculated orientation. The method further comprises the steps of providing an electric torque to the machine so as to reach a target speed.

SYNERGIC METHOD FOR HYDRODYNAMIC ENERGY GENERATION WITH NEUTRALIZED HEAD PRESSURE PUMP

A synergic method for hydrodynamic energy generation includes providing a system and method utilization for producing electrical power or mechanical rotational pumping energy for pumping water to high level reservoir or to feeding a decorative water fall, providing a multi compartment housing, pumping water via the housing, providing a first vertically aligned compartment within or beside the housing, mechanically coupling a first water wheel, situated at the bottom of first compartment, to pump shaft, generating by the first wheel mechanical rotational power, providing a second vertically aligned compartment mechanically coupling a second water wheel to a generator, generating electrical or mechanical rotational power, by the generator, providing a third vertically aligned compartment providing a fourth compartment, a pump or external jet for removing water from the fourth compartment, utilizing energy and conductively coupling the hydrodynamic energy generation system with the external ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING HYDROELECTRIC TURBINES

A control system for controlling an operation of a hydroelectric turbine. The control system comprises a converter system to convert AC power, supplied by a generator connected to the turbine, and having a voltage and frequency that is a function of a rotational speed of the turbine, to AC power having a voltage and frequency of a transmission system for transmitting the AC power to a receiving station. The system further comprises a control unit that is arranged to co-operate with the converter system to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator in response to a water flow speed through the turbine to thereby control rotation of the turbine. The converter system comprises a first-stage converter and a second-stage converter, with a DC link provided between the first and second-stage converters. The first-stage converter is arranged to convert the AC power supplied by the generator to DC power. The second-stage converter is arranged to convert the DC power to the AC Power for transmission ...

HYDRAULIC ENERGY CONVERSION UNIT AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING SUCH A UNIT

Cette installation comprend une turbine hydraulique, un conduit d'amenée à la turbine d'un écoulement forcé d'eau, un conduit (8) d'évacuation de l'écoulement sortant de la turbine et des ailettes (20) de guidage de l'écoulement dans le conduit d'évacuation. Chaque ailette de guidage (20) est mobile en rotation autour d'un axe (X22) sécant à la paroi (84) du conduit d'évacuation. Des moyens (30) sont prévus pour commander la position angulaire de l'ailette (20) autour de son axe de rotation (X22). Chaque ailette de guidage (20) est également rétractable dans la paroi (84) du conduit d'évacuation (8) et des moyens (21) de réglage de son enfoncement dans la paroi sont prévus.

RUN-OF-THE-RIVER OR MARINE CURRENT POWER PLANT AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE SAME

The invention relates to a method for operating a run-of-the-river or marine current power plant (1), comprising a water turbine (3) with a plurality of rotor blades (4.1, 4.2, 4.3) designed as buoyancy rotors, and an electrical generator (11) that is at least indirectly driven by the water turbine (3), the water turbine (3) being operated in an overspeed range above a performance optimum tip speed ratio (?opt) to limit the performance. The invention is characterized in that the water turbine (3) is matched to the immersion depth (T) of the run-of-the-river or marine current power plant (1) such that cavitation occurs on at least one rotor blade section in the overspeed range as of a cavitation tip speed ratio threshold (?k) which lies below a tip speed ratio (?d) associated with a racing speed, and the water turbine (3) is operated at tip speed ratios up to above the cavitation tip speed ratio threshold (?k) to limit the load.

Verfahren und Einrichtung zur Regelung von Kraftstationen.

Mehrstufige Wasserkraftanlage.

Verfahren zur Regelung von zusammenarbeitenden Wasserkraftwerken.

Reguliereinrichtung für Kraftmaschinen.

Antriebsmotor für das Regulatorpendel einer Kraftmaschine.

Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Gruppe von hydraulischen Kraftwerken.

Distributeur à tiroir pour installation de commande hydraulique

Hydraulische Steuerung für hohen Flüssigkeitsdruck

Einrichtung zur Übertragung der Bewegungen einer Regulierwelle auf einen schwenkbaren Regulierhebel

Hydro-elektrische Maschinengruppe

Hydro-elektrische Maschinengruppe

MULTI-LEVEL HYDRAULIC MACHINE AND PROCEDURE FOR THE ENTERPRISE THE SAME.

НАГРУЗОЧНЫЙ РЕЗИСТОР С ЖИДКОСТНЫМ ОХЛАЖДЕНИЕМ ДЛЯ ЭКСПЛУАТАЦИИ В СФЕРЕ ПРОИЗВОДСТВА ЭНЕРГИИ И ЕГО ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕ

Устройство нагрузочного резистора для генератора, приводимого в движение турбиной в жидкостной линии, где нагрузочный резистор имеет как минимум один электрический элемент в теплопроводном соединении с рабочей жидкостью турбины. Описывается также способ использования такого устройства.

Over-speed protection and flow control method for pumped storage power station

Water lifting power generation control device and water pumping generation control method

HYDRAULIC SCREW-LOCKING DEVICE FOR TURBINE, TURBINE EQUIPEE Of SUCH a DEVICE, AND EQUIPMENT OF DRILLING COMPRISING SUCH a TURBINE

CENTRIFUGAL ACTION TURBINE

METHOD FOR CONTROL OF A WAVE POWER SYSTEM BY MEANS OF A COMMAND OBTAINED BY MINIMIZING AN OBJECTIVE FUNCTION WEIGHTED BY SAME DISCRETISEE AND SHOULDER DEPRESSION DEVICE

La présente invention propose d'améliorer le fonctionnement d'un système houlomoteur par un procédé de commande (COM) prédictive de la machine de conversion qui maximise l'énergie générée en prenant en considération le rendement des conversions énergétiques (MOD ENE) et une prédiction de la houle (PRED). De plus, le procédé selon l'invention détermine la commande optimale par minimisation d'une fonction objectif pondérée et discrétisée par la méthode des trapèzes.

METHOD FOR CONTROL OF A WAVE POWER SYSTEM BY MEANS OF A PROPORTIONAL INTEGRAL CONTROL LAW

La présente invention propose un procédé de commande d'un système houlomoteur (COM), dans lequel on estime la force exercée fex par la houle sur le moyen mobile du système houlomoteur, puis on détermine au moins une fréquence dominante ωex de la force exercée par la houle sur le moyen mobile au moyen d'un filtre de Kalman sans parfum (UKF), et on détermine la commande (COM) du système houlomoteur par une loi de commande PI à gains variables, dont les coefficients sont fonction de la fréquence dominante ωex.

Power generator using water current

에너지 전환 시스템 및 방법

... 에너지 전환 시스템은 고정 구조물, 고정 구조물에 대해 회전하도록 구성된 회전 구조물을 포함할 수 있고, 회전 구조물은 회전 축을 형성한다. 시스템은 회전 구조물에 장착되어 회전 구조물로부터 방사상 외측으로 연장하고, 회전 구조물이 회전 축에 대해 회전하게 하도록 회전 축에 대해 실질적으로 평행한 방향으로 유동하는 유체 흐름과 상호 작용하도록 구성된 적어도 하나의 블레이드 부재, 및 회전 구조물이 고정 구조물에 대해 회전할 때 회전 구조물과 고정 구조물 사이에 래디얼 베어링 및 축방향 베어링 중 적어도 하나를 제공하도록 배치된 적어도 하나의 베어링 메커니즘을 추가로 포함할 수 있다. 시스템은 회전 구조물의 회전을 전기 및 수소 생산 중 적어도 하나로 전환하도록 구성될 수 있다.

AN ENHANCED METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE OUTPUT OF A HYDROELECTRIC TURBINE GENERATOR

수력 발전 장치

... 수력 발전 장치는, 수력 발전 모듈과, 지지부와, 봉형상체(5a, 5b)를 구비한다. 수력 발전 모듈은, 회전날개(1)와, 당해 회전날개(1)의 회전에 의해 발전하는 발전기(3)를 포함한다. 지지부는 수력 발전 모듈을 지지한다. 지지부는 수로에 설치 가능하다. 봉형상체(5a, 5b)는, 지지부로부터 돌출하도록, 지지부에 접속된다. 봉형상체(5a, 5b)에서의 지지부측의 일방 단부 및 지지부의 일부의 어느 하나를 중심부로 하여, 봉형상체(5a, 5b)의 일방 단부와 반대측에 위치하는 타방 단부를 회전 이동시킴에 의해, 제1 상태와 제2 상태를 전환하는 것이 가능하다. 제1 상태는, 수력 발전 모듈의 회전날개(1)가 수로 중의 수면보다 아래에 위치하는 상태이다. 제2 상태는, 회전날개(1)가 수로 중의 수면보다 위에 위치하는 상태이다.

Cage culture system using oscillating water column type wave-power generation device

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A WAVE POWER SYSTEM BY MEANS OF AN INTEGRAL PROPORTIONAL CONTROL LAW

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A WAVE ENERGY SYSTEM TAKING UNCERTAINTIES INTO ACCOUNT

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING HYDROELECTRIC TURBINES

A hydroelectric turbine array system comprises an array of turbine systems and a supervisory controller. Each turbine system of the array comprises a hydroelectric turbine and a control system. The control system includes a converter system arranged to convert AC power, supplied by a generator connected to the hydroelectric turbine and having a voltage and frequency that is a function of a rotational speed of the hydroelectric turbine, to AC power having a voltage and frequency of a transmission system for transmitting the AC power to a receiving station and a control unit co-operable with the converter system to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator. The supervisory controller determines a performance level of a plurality of hydroelectric turbines within the array and instructs the control unit of at least one of the turbine systems to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator to alter the power generated by the at least one of the turbine systems to thereby control the ...

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR WAVE ENERGY DEVICES

A control system (55) is provided for a wave energy device (10) including a rotary absorber (40). The control system (55) can adjust the rotation speed (S) of the rotary absorber (40) based on the velocity (V) of fluid flowing through the absorber resulting from waves in order to optimise the efficiency of the absorber (40).

Hydroelectric generator having retractable runner

A hydroelectric generator is provided with a retractable runner and, optionally, with a retractable distributor. This is accomplished by mounting the runner on a runner shaft which is axially movable in order to permit selective retraction and extension of the runner exteriorly of the generator housing. In this way, the runner may be selectively withdrawn from the inlet to its associated draft tube in order to clear the inlet and increase its water flow rate capacity during periods of flood or excessive high water. The distributor, i.e., the wicket gates, may optionally also be carried on the runner shaft for axial retraction and extension therewith.

Device and method for generating power using buoyancy

A power generator may generate power using buoyancy having a fluid column contained by a tank having a sealable drain and a piston having a substantially hollow interior capable of being filled with a fluid. The piston has a sealable outlet, a vent, an inlet, and a lateral cross-section that is smaller than a lateral cross-section of the tank. A rod is connected to the piston and a power generator is connected to the rod. The piston operates from a first position near the top of the fluid column to a second position near the bottom of the fluid column. The piston moves from the first position to the second position as fluid is added to the inlet. The piston moves from the second position to the first position as the fluid is drained from the outlet.

WASH TIMING BASED ON TURBINE OPERATING PARAMETERS

A system may include a memory storing a turbomachinery degradation model configured to model degradation of a turbine system over time. Further, the system may include a controller communicatively coupled to the memory, which derives a turbomachinery wash timing based on at least one input signal from the turbine system and the turbomachinery degradation model. The turbomachinery degradation model may derive a desired wash point by estimating a modeled power of the turbine system, a modeled heat rate of the turbine system, or both. Furthermore, the controller may use the desired wash point to determine a time for washing components of the turbine system. 1. A system , comprising:a memory storing a turbomachinery degradation model configured to model degradation of a turbine system over time; anda controller communicatively coupled to the memory and configured to derive a turbomachinery wash timing based on at least one input signal from the turbine system and the turbomachinery degradation model, wherein the turbomachinery degradation model is configured to derive a desired wash point by estimating a modeled power of the turbine system, a modeled heat rate of the turbine system, or both, and wherein the controller is configured to use the desired wash point to determine a time for washing components of the turbine system and control the turbine system to enter a clean mode when the time for washing the components of the turbine system is surpassed.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to maintain a steady output of the turbine system claim 1 , a steady heat rate of the turbine system claim 1 , or both over time until the time for washing the components of the turbine system is surpassed.3. (canceled)4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the clean mode comprises driving the turbine system offline for cleaning.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one input signal comprises a firing temperature claim 1 , an inlet guide vane (IGV) angle ...

GOVERNOR.

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A WAVE POWER SYSTEM BY MEANS OF AN INTEGRAL PROPORTIONAL- CONTROL LAW

The present invention is a method of controlling a wave energy system (COM), wherein the force fex exerted by the waves on a mobile float of the wave energy system is estimated, then at least one dominant frequency ωex of the force exerted by the waves on the mobile float is determined using an unscented Kalman filter (UKF), and the control (COM) of the wave energy system is determined by a variable-gain PI control law whose coefficients are a function of dominant frequency ωex.

Cyclical wave energy converter

Systems and methods use cyclical propellers with dynamic blade angle control to extract power from waves. A control system for such implementations can adapt pitching schedules for the blades of the cyclical propellers for efficient energy extraction and/or to control reactive forces. The cyclical propellers may be installed on the floor of a body of water or other liquid, on a submarine, or on a surface float, and blades may extend vertically or horizontally depending on the character of the waves. Several cyclical propellers can be combined into a single unit operated to minimize reactive forces and torques, to propel the unit horizontally or vertically, and/or to stabilize the unit. Such units can be installed with minimal or no moorings.

Ocean wave energy converter utilizing temporary immobilization of a float

A method for thermal energy storage and retrieval of electricity in phase change material.

Power control methods

In an oscillating water column (OWC) assembly power may be generated based on a power reference (Pref) that is derived from an estimate of the available mechanical power in the air turbine (2) or a measured pressure drop (Δp) across the turbine. The power reference (Pref) is used to derive a power control torque reference M ref Po within a power controller (14). A speed controller (16) uses a comparison of a measured speed (ω) of the generator (8) and a maximum speed limit (ωmax) to derive a speed control torque reference M ref ω . A selector function (22) selects whichever of the power control and speed control torque references M ref Po ⁢ M ref ω is the maximum at any time instant. The selected torque reference M ref ω is input to an anti stall torque function (24) where it is selectively modified by applying a speed dependent gain that decreases with decreasing turbine speed, preferably so that the main torque reference (Mref) is zero for a minimum speed limit.

Method and system for controlling hydroelectric turbines

A hydroelectric turbine array system comprises an array of turbine systems and a supervisory controller. Each turbine system of the array comprises a hydroelectric turbine and a control system. The control system includes a converter system arranged to convert AC power, supplied by a generator connected to the hydroelectric turbine and having a voltage and frequency that is proportional to a rotational speed of the hydroelectric turbine, to AC power having a voltage and frequency of a transmission system for transmitting the AC power to a receiving station and a control unit co-operable with the converter system to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator. The supervisory controller determines a performance level of a plurality of hydroelectric turbines within the array and instructs the control unit of at least one of the turbine systems to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator to alter the power generated by the at least one of the turbine systems to thereby control the ...

VARIABLE SPEED PUMPING SYSTEM

A variable speed pumping system includes a generator motor including a frequency converter and a primary side synchronously connected to a commercial power system although a rotor rotates at a variable speed, and a pump turbine that is directly connected to the rotor of the generator motor and drives the generator motor in a power generation mode and is driven by the generator motor in a pumping mode, in which the variable speed pumping system, in the pumping mode, inputs to a power controller a value obtained by subtracting an actual power input from a value obtained by adding a power input command to a power control correction signal calculated by a power control correction signal generator (161) based on a deviation between a rotational speed of the rotor and a rotational speed command calculated based on the power input command and supply a power command to the generator motor to perform power control, and the power control correction signal generator (161) adds a value obtained by ...

СПОСОБ ЭКСПЛУАТАЦИИ ГИДРОЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКОЙ ТУРБИННОЙ СИСТЕМЫ

Изобретение относится к способу эксплуатации гидроэлектрической турбинной системы. Способ содержит следующие этапы: размещают турбину 12 на морском дне в зоне водоема, подверженной действию приливов и отливов; прокладывают электрический кабель для передачи электрической энергии от турбины 12 к удаленному пункту; обеспечивают возможность вращения турбины 12 и выработки электрической энергии за счет энергии приливно-отливного потока воды, проходящего через турбину 12; и перед электрическим соединением кабеля с турбиной 12 поглощают электрическую энергию посредством блока нагрузки 16. Блок 16 электрически соединен с турбиной 12. Блок 16 установлен в гидроэлектрической турбинной системе 10. Изобретение направлено на упрощение установки гидроэлектрической турбинной системы в подверженном приливам и отливам водоеме. 8 з.п. ф-лы, 6 ил.

ТУРБИННАЯ УСТАНОВКА ДЛЯ КРУПНОМАСШТАБНОГО ПРОИЗВОДСТВА ВОДОРОДА

Изобретение относится к области производства водорода из гидроэлектрической энергии. Турбинная установка для крупномасштабного производства водорода содержит конструкцию основания, отделяющую верхний бьеф с большой высотой над уровнем моря от нижнего бьефа с меньшей высотой над уровнем моря. Конструкция основания образует проходящий через нее проход для воды между входом, примыкающим к верхнему бьефу, и выходом, примыкающим к нижнему бьефу. Рабочее колесо опирается с возможностью вращения на основание и размещено в проходе для воды между входом и выходом, так что вода, протекая через проход в результате перепада давления, вызывает вращение рабочего колеса. Генератор опирается на основание и соединяется с рабочим колесом посредством вращающегося вала для выработки электроэнергии при вращении рабочего колеса. Электролизер электрически соединен с генератором для получения электроэнергии и производства водорода. Система управления может воспринимать вместимость для хранения оставшегося водорода ...

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ДЛЯ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ГИДРОЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКИМИ ТУРБИНАМИ

Изобретение относится к системе управления для управления работой гидроэлектрической турбины. Техническим результатом является создание системы для преобразования электрической мощности, производимой турбиной, в форму, совместимую с ситемой передачи электроэнергии для передачи электрической мощности на берег с обеспечением оптимизации производительности отдельной турбины и групп турбин в целом. Система управления содержит систему преобразователя для преобразования мощности переменного тока, подаваемой генератором, соединенным с турбиной, и имеющей напряжение и частоту, которые зависят от скорости вращения турбины, в мощность переменного тока, имеющую напряжение и частоту системы передачи, для передачи мощности переменного тока к приемной подстанции. Система дополнительно содержит модуль управления для регулирования напряжения переменного тока, подаваемого генератором в зависимости от скорости потока воды через турбину, для управления, таким образом, вращением турбины. Система преобразователя ...

УСТАНОВКА ДЛЯ ПРЕОБРАЗОВАНИЯ ГИДРАВЛИЧЕСКОЙ ЭНЕРГИИ И СПОСОБ ЕЁ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ

Изобретение относится к установке, предназначенной для преобразования гидравлической энергии в электрическую или механическую энергию. Установка (I) для преобразования гидравлической энергии в электрическую или в механическую энергию имеет в своем составе гидравлическую турбину (1), канал (5) подведения к этой турбине потока (Е) воды под давлением, канал (8) отведения потока, выходящего из турбины, и направляющие крылышки (20) для течения потока в канале отведения. Каждое направляющее крылышко (20) является подвижным по вращательному движению относительно оси (Х), пересекающей стенку (84) канала отведения. Установка имеет в своем составе средства управления угловым положением крылышка относительно оси его вращения, включающие блок 10 и серводвигатель. Каждое крылышко (20), подвижное по вращательному движению, является убирающимся в стенку (84) канала (8) отведения. Установка содержит поршень, выполненный с возможностью регулировать погружение крылышка (20) в стенку (84). Изобретение направлено ...

СПОСОБ И СИСТЕМА ДЛЯ УПРАВЛЕНИЯ ГИДРОЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКИМИ ТУРБИНАМИ

Изобретение относится к области электротехники и может быть использовано в гидроэлектрических турбинах. Техническим результатом является обеспечение оптимизации производительности отдельных турбин и группы турбин. Система массива гидроэлектрических турбин содержит массив турбинных систем и управляющий контроллер. Каждая турбинная система массива содержит гидроэлектрическую турбину и систему управления. Система управления содержит: систему преобразователя, выполненную с возможностью преобразования мощности переменного тока, подаваемой генератором, соединенным с гидроэлектрической турбиной, и имеющей напряжение и частоту, которые зависят от скорости вращения гидроэлектрической турбины, в мощность переменного тока, имеющую напряжение и частоту системы передачи, для передачи мощности переменного тока к приемной подстанции; и модуль управления, выполненный с возможностью взаимодействия с системой преобразователя для регулирования напряжения переменного тока, подаваемого генератором. Управляющий ...

ВОЛНОВОЙ ГЕНЕРАТОР ЭНЕРГИИ И СПОСОБ ГЕНЕРИРОВАНИЯ ЭНЕРГИИ

Группа изобретений относится к устройствам и способам генерирования океанской волны. Волновой генератор энергии содержит плавучий корпус, предназначенный для плавания в массе воды. Электрическая машина (103), расположенная в корпусе, имеет якорь и источник поля, причем машина (103) имеет неподвижную часть, соединенную с корпусом, и подвижную часть. Узел (104) противовеса является подвижным в корпусе и содержит подвижную часть машины (103). Относительное перемещение узла противовеса и неподвижной части машины (103) генерирует электрическую энергию. Устройство (400) накопления энергии накапливает энергию, генерируемую машиной (103). Система (200) управления определяет двунаправленный поток энергии между устройством накопления энергии и якорем. Энергия возвращается к машине (103) для приведения в движение узла противовеса антисимметрично движению корпуса. Изобретение направлено на повышение эффективности при генерировании энергии. 2 н. и 21 з.п. ф-лы, 21 ил.

ЭЛЕКТРИЧЕСКОЕ УСТРОЙСТВО И СПОСОБ ДЛЯ ВОЛНОВОЙ ЭНЕРГЕТИЧЕСКОЙ УСТАНОВКИ

... 1. Электрическое устройство, включающее в себя обмотку, средство для индуцирования тока в обмотке и схему электрического моста, отличающееся тем, что схема электрического моста включает в себя емкостное средство, обладающее емкостью, адаптированной для получения резонанса с импедансом обмотки.2. Электрическое устройство по п.1, в котором мостовая схема (100-500) дополнительно включает в себя полупроводниковое средство, имеющее один или более полупроводников.3. Электрическое устройство по п.2, в котором полупроводниковое средство включает в себя один или более диодов.4. Электрическое устройство по п.2 или 3, в котором полупроводниковое средство включает в себя один или более тиристоров.5. Электрическое устройство по п.2 или 3, в котором полупроводниковое средство включает в себя один или более биполярных транзисторов с изолированным затвором (БТИЗ).6. Электрическое устройство по п.1, в котором мостовая схема (200) включает в себя первую, вторую и третью ветви (206, 207 и 208), соединенные ...

Modular turbine mounting

A modular turbine hub comprises a cast housing (46, figure 4) comprising a plurality of openings, one for each turbine blade. A cast or machined coupling 33, 34 is connected to the hub and attaches the turbine blade. The coupling 33, 34 holds turbine pitch control electronics 50 and a turbine pitch mechanism 43. Machining of the hub is simpler because only a single component is attached to the hub for each blade. This arrangement is particularly suitable for reducing the complexity of the hub for a three bladed tidal turbine.

Improved survivability of wave energy convertors

A wave energy conversion (WEC) system includes a float body 102 coupled to a heave plate (water anchor) 104 by a flexible tether 106. A controller controls the tether 106 between survivability modes by adjusting a tension and/or length of the tether. By lifting the heave plate 104 closer to the float 102, the relative water particle velocities reduce, thereby reducing the loading on the system. For extreme conditions, the heave plate may be mated with the surface float with winches to prevent relative movement. The surface float may be submerged for storm avoidance.

Modular turbine mounting

Wave Energy converter control

Determining damage and remaining useful life of rotating machinery including drive trains, gearboxes, and generators

Control of array of energy producing devices

A power take off system for harnessing wave energy

Apparatus for generating electricity using water movement

An apparatus 2 for generating electricity from water movement comprises an electrical generator 4 with a housing 6, a rotor 8 and a stator 10; and a control means 12 which is configured to remove a defective part 14 in the electrical generator 4, and to receive a replacement part 16. The apparatus 2 includes transport means 18 for transporting the defective part 14 around the apparatus 2. This system allows the replacement of a defective part 14 without the need for divers even although the apparatus 2 in use is submerged at depth in the water. The control means 12 may include a turntable, so that the replacement part may be lowered in an orientation where it creates minimal drag, and then rotated into its in use orientation with the apparatus.

WAVE ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICE

Method and device for decelerating an underwater power station

The invention concerns a method for the operation of an underwater powerplant comprising a water turbine for purposes of absorbing kinetic energy from a flow of water; an electrical generator with converter feed, whose generator rotor is connected in a torsionally rigid manner with the water turbine, wherein the invention is characterised in that in normal operation a first frequency converter is used for purposes of converter feed, and in the braking operation at least one second frequency converter, or one component of a second frequency converter, is connected into the circuit and synchronised with the first frequency converter, in order to execute with the latter in a combined manner a converter feed to the electrical generator, which generates a generator torque braking the water turbine.

Pump storage arrangement, method of operating a pump storage arrangement and pump storage hydropower plant

A method of operating and a pump storage arrangement are disclosed. The arrangement includes a main flow machine arranged between an energy store and an energy sink such that a fluid medium is conveyed out of the energy sink through the main flow machine into the energy store during pump operation while converting electrical energy into kinetic flow energy. The fluid medium is conveyed out of the energy store through the flow machine back into the energy sink during turbine operation while converting the stored potential energy into electrical energy. An auxiliary flow machine is arranged in series with the main flow machine and a conversion means is provided such that the fluid medium is conveyable through the main flow machine and the auxiliary flow machine during pump operation and the fluid medium is only conveyable through the main flow machine during turbine operation.

Energy release buoyant actuator

A buoyant actuator ( 10 ) is used in apparatus ( 11 ) for harnessing wave energy in a body of water such as the ocean. The buoyant actuator ( 10 ) is deployed within the body of water ( 12 ) and is responsive to wave motion in the body of water. The buoyant actuator ( 10 ) includes a body ( 101 ) incorporating a flow path along which water can flow, and a gate means ( 115 ) for controlling flow along the flow path. The gate ( 115 ) includes closure elements configured as flaps ( 221 ) providing a barrier ( 222 ) across the flow path through the body ( 101 ). Each flap ( 221 ) is moveable into and out of a condition in which it cooperates with the other flaps ( 221 ) to provide the barrier ( 222 ). A latch mechanism ( 231 ) is provided for releasably retaining each flap ( 221 ) in the condition providing the barrier ( 222 ). The latch mechanism ( 231 ) has a magnetic coupling.

Fluid-cooled load resistor for use in energy production and use therefor

A load resistor device for a generator driven by a turbine in a fluid string wherein the load resistor is provided with at least one electrical element in heat conducting connection with the turbine driving fluid. Also described is a method for use of such a device.

Francis-Type Pump for a Hydroelectric Power Plant

The invention relates to a Francis-type pump, comprising the following features: a blade wheel; a spiral housing; a suction pipe; a counter-swirl generator which is arranged in the inlet to the blade wheel and which can be activated during the start-up and deactivated after start-up, and which generates a swirl acting against the direction of rotation of the blade wheel.

WATER CURRENT TURBINE ARRANGEMENTS

A method is described for controlling a water current turbine array which includes first and second pluralities of water current turbines operable to generate electricity from a water current. The method includes controlling respective power generation characteristics of the water current turbines in the array so as to maximise power generation of the array as a whole. 1. A method for controlling a water current turbine arrangement which includes first and second pluralities of water current turbines operable to generate electricity from a water current , the first plurality of water current turbines being upstream of at least one of the turbines in the second plurality , the water current turbines having respective individual power generation characteristics , the method comprising independently controlling the individual power generation characteristics of each of the water current turbines in the arrangement so as to maximise overall energy capture from the arrangement as a whole.2. A method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the first and second pluralities of water current turbines are arranged in respective first and second rows claim 1 , so as to form an array.3. A method as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising receiving measurement information indicative of respective individual power generation characteristics of the water current turbines claim 1 , and using received measurement information in controlling the water current turbines.4. A method as claimed in . comprising controlling the respective individual power generation characteristics of the water current turbines of the first plurality independently of controlling the respective individual power generation characteristics of the water current turbines of the second plurality.5. A method as claimed in claim 1 , comprising defining groups of water current turbines claim 1 , and controlling the power generation characteristics of water current turbines in one such group independently of turbines in ...

HYDROSTATIC MOTOR AND METHOD FOR OPERATING A HYDROSTATIC MOTOR

Disclosed is a motor which uses a hydrostatic force to generate a torque which repeats cyclically owing to a displacement of the center of gravity of a cyclic unit. Float bodies () are subjected to a buoyant force in a fluid (), which buoyant force causes an upward movement () of the float bodies and drives these into an upper position. The upward movement drives a drive element. The upward movement furthermore causes air to be forced from upper segments () of a deformable element () into lower segments (), and as a result the center of gravity of the cyclic units which comprise the float bodies () and the deformable element () is raised above an axis of rotation (). When the float bodies () have passed into the upper position thereof, said elevated center of gravity position permits a rotation of the cyclic units into the initial position thereof. 1. (canceled)2. (canceled)3. (canceled)4. (canceled)5. (canceled)6. (canceled)7. (canceled)8. (canceled)9. (canceled)10. (canceled)11. (canceled)12. A motor which is designed to generate a torque using a hydrostatic force , wherein the torque is generated on the basis of a displacement of the center of gravity of a rotary unit , and wherein the motor has a drive element and the rotary unit has a rigid , dimensionally stable float body;wherein the rotary unit is arranged in a liquid fluid such that the float body whose relative density is lower than the relative density of the liquid fluid is, in a lower position, subject to a buoyant lift force which drives the float body in an upward movement into an upper position and thereby drives the drive element; andwherein the center of gravity of the rotary unit, with the float body in the upper position, is situated above the drive element, and the center of gravity thereby drives the rotary unit into an initial position in which the float body is in the lower position; and 'a deformable element comprising a gaseous fill medium;', 'wherein the rotary unit also compriseswherein ...

METHOD OF CONTROLLING A DEVICE FOR CONVERTING WAVE ENERGY TO ELECTRICAL ENERGY

The invention is a method of converting wave energy into electrical energy using a device comprising a moving device cooperating with an electric motor which oscillates with respect to the motor under the action of the waves. 112-. (canceled)13. A method of converting wave energy to electrical energy using a device comprising:a moving element cooperating with an electrical motor, the moving element oscillating with respect to the motor under the action of waves, comprising:a) selecting a relationship expressing a position of the moving element as a function of the force exerted by the motor on the moving element as a function of wave force applied to the moving element;b) actuating the motor in order to produce a given force on the moving element;c) measuring the position of the moving element with respect to the motor over time;d) determining the wave force using the relationship selected in a), accounting for the force of the motor given in b) and the position of the moving element measured in c);e) determining a new value of force exerted by the motor on the moving element, the new value corresponding to a force maximizing the average electrical power generated by the motor, the average electrical power depending on the wave force determined in d), on the new value of the force exerted by the motor on the moving element and on the position of the moving element with respect to the motor; andf) actuating the motor to produce the new force determined in e) by supplying electrical energy to the motor when the force of the motor drives the moving element and by recovering electrical energy from the motor when the force of the motor resists motion of the moving element.14. A method as claimed in claim 13 , wherein the relationship selected in a) expresses an equality between a sum of the forces applied to the moving element and a product of a mass of the moving element by the acceleration of the moving element.15. A method as claimed in claim 13 , comprising:selecting ...

Super Efficient Regulator

A system for producing mechanical energy. In some embodiments, the system includes a first source providing a first fluid, a fluid pressurization device, a second source supplying a second fluid, a first motor, and a second motor. The fluid pressurization device draws in the first fluid from the first source and increases the pressure of the first fluid. The first motor is driven by the second fluid, the second fluid decreasing in pressure and the first motor powering the fluid pressurization device as the second fluid passes through the first motor. The second motor receives a mixture of the first fluid from the first motor and the second fluid from the fluid pressurization device, whereby the second motor produces the mechanical energy.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ADJUSTING THE TORQUE OF A MASS AND SPINNING WHEEL ROTATOR IN A WAVE POWER PLANT

The invention relates to a method and a system for adjusting the torque of a mass and spinning wheel rotator in a wave power plant. The torque of a rotator rotating around a vertical shaft is compensated partially or completely with a compensating moment which is produced by an electric machine. Acceleration components (x and y) are measured for a given point of the wave power plant's floating body () in directions perpendicular to each other. A vector (V) with a magnitude formula (A) and a direction (a) is established for said acceleration components, the direction or angular position (a) of a rotator () is monitored and its lag (α) from the acceleration vector's direction (α) is determined. The compensating moment is adjusted as dependent on a compensation factor (B) whose sub-factors are the magnitude of the body's acceleration vector (V) and the sine of the angle of lag (sin α). This is supplemented with a compensation factor based on spinning wheel forces in a manner otherwise similar except that the acceleration must be replaced with a rotation speed (AV) of the body's inclination, which is obtained from an inertial sensor ). and the mass must be replaced with a gyro force which is dependent on the inertia and rotating speed of a spinning wheel. 1. A method for adjusting the torque of a mass and gyro rotator in a wave power plant , said method comprising compensating partially or completely the torque of a rotator , which rotates around a vertical shaft , with a compensating moment which is produced by an electric machine , said method comprising measuring acceleration components for a given point of the wave power plant's floating body in directions perpendicular to each other as projected onto the rotator's plane of rotation , establishing a vector with a magnitude and direction for the measured acceleration components , monitoring the direction or angular position of a rotator and determining its lag from the direction of the acceleration components’ vector ...

LINEAR ARRAY OF WAVE ENERGY CONVERSION DEVICES

The invention relates to the extraction of energy from waves and comprises a linear array of several Salter's Ducks set roughly perpendicular to the oncoming wave crest. The Ducks are each rotatably connected through a power take-off device to a rigid space frame. The Ducks are spaced and designed to have an optimized natural frequency of each Duck and the array and space frame as a whole and the response characteristics of each Duck may be further modified by controls on the power take-off in response to signals from the whole array of Ducks, particular the lead Duck, but possibly also each other Duck and the space frame motion as a whole. The whole space frame and Duck array can be moored by any means appropriate, but most likely to a single point catenary moor, though other mooring systems are possible. 1. An apparatus for converting the energy of waves in water to other useful forms comprising a multiplicity of floating ovoid bodies with a center of rotation horizontal and approximately perpendicular to an oncoming wave , said bodies being configured with an asymmetric shape about said axis of rotation so as to cause said cams to rotate about said axes of rotation when excited by said wave , said cams being arrayed in columns approximately perpendicular to the direction of travel of the wave , said bodies being rotably attached to an elongated rigid structure that fixes said bodies in position relative to each other , said rotable attachment being equipped with means to convert the rotation of said bodies to other forms of energy , and said elongated structure floating horizontally near the surface of the water , supported by said bodies.2. The apparatus of where the bodies have a cross section of Salter's Duck.3. The apparatus of wherein the bodies upwave of the following bodies generate a signal that modifies the action of said energy conversion means to maximize energy extraction by varying the relationship between the moment reacting said rotation and the ...

FLOW CONTROLLER

The present invention relates to a flow controller configured to selectively act as a pump or as a flow regulator. The flow controller comprises: an inlet for a fluid; an outlet for the fluid; a pump assembly arranged between the inlet and the outlet and configured to pump the fluid through the flow controller from the inlet to the outlet; a hydro electrical generator assembly arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the hydro electrical generator assembly configured to allow the fluid flow through the flow controller from the inlet to the outlet and to generate electricity by transforming flow energy of the fluid flowing through the flow controller into electricity; and a mode controller configured to selectively set the flow controller in a pumping mode or in an electricity generating mode. 1. A flow controller configured to selectively act as a pump or as a flow regulator for a transport of fluid from a first reservoir to a second reservoir , the flow controller comprising:an inlet connectable to the first reservoir;an outlet connectable to the second reservoir;a pump assembly arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the pump assembly comprising a first wheel configured to pump fluid through the flow controller in a flow direction from the inlet to the outlet, thereby pumping fluid from the first reservoir to the second reservoir;a flow regulator assembly arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the flow regulator assembly comprising a second wheel configured to rotate against the flow direction from the inlet to the outlet, thereby regulating a fluid flow from the first reservoir to the second reservoir; anda mode controller configured to selectively set the flow controller in a pumping mode or in a flow regulating mode based on a signal indicative on a pressure difference between the fluid at the inlet and the fluid at the outlet;wherein upon being set in the pumping mode, the mode controller is configured to activate the pump assembly; andwherein upon ...

METHODS FOR MONITORING A SEAL ASSEMBLY

A method for monitoring functionality of a seal assembly within an injector feed assembly is described. The method includes providing a buffer fluid to the seal assembly, measuring at least one of a pressure and a flow rate of the buffer fluid, and determining a functionality of the seal assembly based at least partially on the at least one of a pressure and a flow rate of the buffer fluid. 1. A method for monitoring functionality of a seal assembly within an injector feed assembly , said method comprising:providing a buffer fluid to the seal assembly;measuring at least one of a pressure and a flow rate of the buffer fluid; anddetermining a functionality of the seal assembly based at least partially on the at least one of a pressure and a flow rate of the buffer fluid.2. A method according to wherein determining the functionality of the seal assembly comprises determining whether the at least one of a pressure and a flow rate of the buffer fluid is within a predetermined range.3. A method according to further comprising providing an alert upon a determination of a seal assembly failure.4. A method according to further comprising initiating a reactor shutdown upon a determination of a seal assembly failure.5. A method according to wherein providing the buffer fluid to the seal assembly comprises providing the buffer fluid at a pressure that is greater than the pressures of either process fluid separated by the seal assembly.6. A method according to further comprising:determining a composition of at least one of the process fluid and the buffer fluid; anddetermining a functionality of the seal assembly based at least partially on the determined composition.714-. (canceled)15. A power generation plant comprising:at least one carbonaceous reactant source;at least one oxygenated fluid reactant source; an adapter and a tip section, said tip section configured to be releasably coupled to said adapter, wherein said adapter and said tip section each comprise at least one ...

ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS AND METHODS

An energy conversion system includes a stationary structure and a rotatable structure configured to rotate relative to the stationary structure. The system includes at least one blade member mounted to and extending radially outward from the rotatable structure. The blade member is configured to interact with fluid currents to cause the rotatable structure to rotate about an axis of rotation. The system includes a first magnetic bearing component disposed on the rotatable structure and a second magnetic bearing component disposed on the stationary structure. The magnetic bearing components have an aligned position in which the components are axially aligned along the axis of rotation with respect to each other. Axial displacement of the magnetic bearing components from the aligned position generates a magnetic field between the components that provides an axially-directed restoring force between the rotatable structure and the stationary structure to reposition the components to the aligned position. 1. (canceled)2. An energy conversion system comprising:a stationary structure;a rotatable structure configured to rotate relative to the stationary structure, the rotatable structure defining an axis of rotation;at least one blade member mounted to and extending radially outward from the rotatable structure, the at least one blade member being configured to interact with fluid currents to cause the rotatable structure to rotate about the axis of rotation; anda first magnetic bearing component disposed on the rotatable structure and a second magnetic bearing component disposed on the stationary structure, the first and second magnetic bearing components having an aligned position in which the magnetic bearing components are axially aligned along the axis of rotation with respect to each other,wherein axial displacement of the first and second magnetic bearing components from the aligned position generates a magnetic field between the magnetic bearing components that ...

WAVE POWER GENERATION APPARATUS

A wave power generation apparatus is disclosed. A wave power generation apparatus according to one embodiment can comprise: a floating body floating on the surface of the sea; a power transmission part, which is connected to the floating body so as to receive power generated according to the movement of the floating body, and moors the floating body on the surface of the sea; and a mooring angle adjustment module for adjusting the mooring angle of the floating body for the power transmission part according to the state of the waves acting on the floating body. 1. A wave power generation apparatus , comprising:a floating body configured to float on a surface of sea waters;a power transfer member connected to the floating body and configured to receive power generated from a movement of the floating body and moor the floating body on the surface of sea waters; anda mooring angle adjustment module configured to adjust a mooring angle of the floating body with respect to the power transfer member based on a state of waves that act on the floating body.2. The wave power generation apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the mooring angle adjustment module comprises:a movable member connected to the floating body and configured to perform a translational motion in an outward direction of the floating body,wherein the power transfer member is fixed to a seabed below the floating body via the movable member.3. The wave power generation apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the mooring angle adjustment module is configured to allow the movable member to perform the translational motion such that a distance between the floating body and a passing portion of the power transfer member associated with the movable member changes.4. The wave power generation apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the mooring angle adjustment module further comprises:a driver configured to allow the movable member to perform the translational motion;a sensor configured to sense the state of the waves that act on the ...

MARINE HYDROKINETIC TURBINE

A marine hydrokinetic electric power generator comprises one of a stator and a rotor which is adjustably movable through an infinite number of positions from being proximate to one another so that their magnetic fields overlap mostly to a position such that the rotor is most distant from the stator and has little overlap of magnetic field strength. Hatch and speed control may be also provided by a spur/helical gear assembly of sun and planetary gear sets referred to herein as a Transgear™ gear assembly. The variable (or fixed) power generator in operation may comprise one of a rotor and a stator being out of phase with one another by an angle, for example, the one of the rotor or the stator leading or lagging the other. In this instance, a motor such as a servo motor may be used to rotationally compensate for the out-of-phase angle by radially moving the rotor with respect to the stator or vice versa. The variable (or fixed) power generator may also be applied in a cam-controlled speed converter and a wind turbine electric power generator. The variable power generator of a marine hydrokinetic electric power generator may be used as a low torque generator and a high power-rated generator in these applications and may generate more electric power than a conventional fixed power generator (the rotor axially aligned to overlap the stator in a conventional manner). 1. A marine hydrokinetic electric power generator comprisinga variable power generator coupled to an input shaft and to an output shaft, the variable power generator comprising a rotor and a stator axially adjustable along the output shaft so that the rotor may be displaced with respect to the stator or the stator may be displaced with respect to the rotor, the variable power generator with a minimum displacement and complete overlap of rotor and stator and a maximum torque value in one position and with a maximum displacement and relative non-overlap of rotor and stator and a minimum torque value in another ...

WAVE FORCE GENERATION SYSTEM AND CONTROLLING METHOD THEREFOR

Disclosed are a wave force generation system for producing electric energy by a hydraulic circuit and a controlling method. The wave force generation system comprises a power conversion portion including a hydraulic cylinder which generates a hydraulic pressure by six degrees-of-freedom motion of a moving object floating on waves, wherein: when force is applied to the hydraulic cylinder in one direction thereof, the power conversion portion makes a fluid flow along a first path so as to produce electric energy; and when force is applied to the hydraulic cylinder in the other direction thereof, the power conversion portion makes the fluid flow through second path which makes the fluid bypass and flow in a direction opposite to the first path, whereby the fluid in the second path meets the first path and thus can produce electric energy. 1. A wave force generation system comprising:a power conversion portion comprising a hydraulic cylinder configured to generate a hydraulic pressure by a six degrees-of-freedom motion of a movable object floating on waves,wherein when a force is applied to the hydraulic cylinder in one direction thereof, the power conversion portion allows a fluid to flow along a first path, to produce electric energy, andwherein when a force is applied to the hydraulic cylinder in another direction thereof, the power conversion portion allows the fluid to flow through a second path that allows the fluid to bypass and flow in a direction opposite to the first path, and the second path is merged with the first path, to produce electric energy.2. The wave force generation system of claim 1 , wherein a plurality of tensile force transmission members connected to at least three portions of the movable object are included.3. The wave force generation system of claim 2 , whereineach of the tensile force transmission members comprises a first driving portion configured to drive the hydraulic cylinder, and a restoring force transmission portion,when a tensile ...

POWER PLANT COMPRISING A STRUCTURE AND A VEHICLE

The invention relates to a power plant for producing electrical power. The power plant comprises a vehicle comprising at least one wing arranged to be secured to a structure by means of at least one tether. The vehicle is arranged to move with a varying speed over a predetermined trajectory by means of a fluid stream passing the wing. The power plant comprises an element arranged to change or allow change of the distance between the vehicle and the structure continuously over or during parts of the predetermined trajectory, thereby reducing the variation in speed of the vehicle over the predetermined trajectory and/or allowing electrical power to be generated from the variation in distance by means of a transducer arranged to be attached to the power plant. The advantage of the invention is that an increased efficiency is obtainable for the power plant. 1119232982732711339297272910101. Power plant () for producing electrical power , the power plant () comprising a structure () and a vehicle () comprising at least one wing () , the vehicle () being arranged to be secured to the structure () by means of at least one tether (); the vehicle () being arranged to move in a predetermined trajectory () by means of a fluid stream passing the wing () , the vehicle () being arranged to move with a varying speed over the predetermined trajectory () , characterized in that the power plant () comprises an element () arranged to be attached between the wing () and the structure () , the element being arranged to change or allow change of the distance between the vehicle () and the structure () continuously over or during parts of the predetermined trajectory () , reducing the variation in speed of the vehicle () over the predetermined trajectory () , and/or allowing electrical power to be generated from the variation in distance between the vehicle () and the structure () by means of a transducer () , the transducer () being arranged to be attached to the power plant ().211013297. ...

TURBOMACHINE MODULE FOR A VARIABLE PITCH BLADE PROPELLER AND TURBOMACHINE COMPRISING IT

A turbomachine module with a longitudinal axis, the module comprising: a rotary casing rotatable around the longitudinal axis and arranged to carry a propeller provided with a plurality of blades; a system for changing the pitch of the blades of the propeller comprising: a control, and a mechanism for varying the pitch of the blades of the propeller connecting these blades to the control, wherein the control comprises a rotary actuator comprising a control body and a reference body which is integral with the rotary casing, and wherein the mechanism for varying the pitch comprises a synchronization ring which is driven in rotation around the longitudinal axis by the control body and which is guided in rotation on the rotary casing, the synchronization ring being connected to the blades. 1. A turbomachine module with a longitudinal axis , the module comprising:a rotary casing rotatable around the longitudinal axis and arranged to carry a propeller provided with a plurality of blades; and a control, and', 'a variable pitch mechanism for varying the pitch of the blades of the propeller connecting these blades to the control,, 'a system for changing the pitch of the blades of the propeller comprisingwherein said control comprises a rotary actuator comprising a control body and a reference body which is integral with said rotary casing, and wherein said variable pitch mechanism for varying the pitch comprises a synchronization ring which is driven in rotation around the longitudinal axis by said control body and which is guided in rotation on said rotary casing by a guide, said synchronization ring being intended to be connected to said blades, the rotary actuator being offset axially with respect to the synchronization ring.2. The module according to claim 1 , wherein the synchronization ring is at least partly surrounded by means for positioning said blades fixed to the rotary casing.3. The module according to claim 1 , wherein the synchronization ring comprises a ...

HYDRAULIC MACHINE HAVING A DEVICE FOR MEASURING THE WATER LEVEL IN THE INTAKE PIPE AND METHOD FOR DRAINAGE

A hydraulic machine has a runner, a guide apparatus, a draft tube, and an apparatus for measuring the water level in the region of the draft tube. The apparatus includes a first pressure measuring device, a second pressure measuring device, and a unit for generating differential pressure values. The pressure measuring devices are arranged in such a way that they may detect the pressures applied inside the draft tube and are respectively connected to the unit. The first pressure measuring device is located above the second pressure measuring device, and the unit is configured to generate the difference between the pressures that the pressure measuring devices detect. There is also described a method for dewatering the runner of such a hydraulic machine. 14-. (canceled)5. A hydraulic machine , comprising:a runner, a guide apparatus, and a draft tube;a level detector for measuring a water level in said draft tube, said level detector including a first pressure measuring device, a second pressure measuring device, and a unit for generating differential pressure values;said first and second pressure measuring devices being disposed to detect pressures prevailing inside said draft tube and being connected to said unit;wherein said first pressure measuring device is located above said second pressure measuring device and said unit is configured to generate a difference between the pressures respectively detected by said first and second pressure measuring devices.6. The hydraulic machine according to claim 5 , wherein:said first and second pressure measuring devices are pressure sensors for generating an electrical pressure signal and said first and second pressure sensors are connected to said unit by way of electrical cables; andsaid unit is an electronic unit for calculating an electrical differential pressure signal.7. The hydraulic machine according to claim 5 , wherein said first and second pressure measuring devices respectively comprise a separating membrane and ...

UNDERWATER POWER GENERATOR WITH DUAL BLADE SETS

A power generation apparatus for generating power from water flows is described. The power generation apparatus includes: a generator; a first blade set operatively mounted to the generator for rotation in a selected direction in response to flowing water from a selected direction; a second blade set operatively mounted to the generator for rotation and operatively connected to the first blade set, the second blade set being disposed coaxially with, and downstream of or in a wake zone of, the first blade set; wherein the generator is adapted to be driven by at least one of the blade sets, the generator being disposed generally coaxially between the first and second blade sets. 1. A power generation apparatus for generating power from water flows , the power generation apparatus , comprising:a generator,a first blade set operatively mounted to the generator for rotation in a selected direction in response to flowing water from the selected direction; anda second blade set operatively mounted to the generator for rotation, the second blade set being disposed coaxially with, and at least one of downstream of or in a wake zone of, the first blade set, the second blade set being operatively coupled to the first blade set,the generator configured to be driven by at least one of the first blade set or the second blade set, the generator further being disposed substantially coaxially between the first blade set and the second blade set and wherein the first and second blade sets are operatively coupled together.2. The power generation apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the second blade set rotates in the same direction as the first blade set when the first blade set rotates in the selected direction.3. The power generation apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:at least one of a clutch or braking arrangement configured to at least one of (1) selectively uncouple or (2) operatively disconnect the first blade set from the second blade set.4. The power generation apparatus of ...

MARINE CURRENT POWER PLANT AND A METHOD FOR ITS OPERATION

The invention relates to a method for operating a marine current power plant, comprising a water turbine with several rotor blades arranged as buoyancy rotors, an electric generator which is driven at least indirectly by the water turbine, wherein the water turbine is guided for power limitation in an overspeed range above a power-optimal tip speed ratio. The water turbine is adjusted to the immersion depth of the marine current power plant in such a way that cavitation occurs on at least one rotor blade section in the overspeed range from a cavitation tip speed ratio threshold which lies below a tip speed ratio associated with a runaway speed, and the water turbine is operated for load limitation at tip speed ratios which lie above the cavitation tip speed ratio threshold. 1. A method for operating a marine current power plant , comprising the steps of:providing a water turbine with a plurality of rotor blades arranged as buoyancy rotors;driving an electric generator at least indirectly by said water turbine;guiding said water turbine for power limitation in an overspeed range above a power-optimal tip speed ratio;adjusting said water turbine to an immersion depth of the marine current power plant so that cavitation occurs on at least one rotor blade section in the overspeed range from a cavitation tip speed ratio threshold which lies below a tip speed ratio associated with a runaway speed; andoperating said water turbine for load limitation at tip speed ratios which lie above the cavitation tip speed ratio threshold.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the tip speed ratio is set for load limitation by one of the control and feedback control of a generator torque braking said water turbine.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein said at least one rotor blade section on which cavitation occurs is spatially limited for the tip speed ratios adjustable for limiting the load.4. The method according to claim 3 , wherein said at least one rotor blade section ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING WAVE POWER GENERATION FACILITIES

A power generation facility control system includes a power transmitter including a connection member configured to transfer kinetic energy of a buoyant body that moves by wave energy, a motion converter configured to convert the kinetic energy transferred from the power transmitter to rotational kinetic energy of a rotating body, a first route configured to receive the rotational kinetic energy from the motion converter, and to generate electric power, and a second route configured to receive and store the rotational kinetic energy from the motion converter, or to transfer, to the motion converter, rotational kinetic energy that is restored using stored energy. 1. A system for controlling a power generation facility , the system comprising:a power transmitter comprising a connection member configured to transfer kinetic energy of a buoyant body that moves by wave energy;a motion converter configured to convert the kinetic energy transferred from the power transmitter to rotational kinetic energy of a rotating body;a first route configured to receive the rotational kinetic energy from the motion converter, and to generate electric power; anda second route configured to receive and store the rotational kinetic energy from the motion converter, or to transfer, to the motion converter, rotational kinetic energy that is restored using stored energy.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first route comprises a power generator configured to generate alternating current (AC) power using the rotational kinetic energy.3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising:a power generation controller configured to control output AC power of the power generator using a 3-phase current rectification scheme.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second route is configured to transfer claim 1 , to the motion converter claim 1 , the rotational kinetic energy that is restored using the stored energy when a tension of the connection member is less than or equal to a reference value or ...

Survivability of Wave Energy Convertors

A wave energy conversion (WEC) system includes a float body, a heave plate, a tether, and a controller. The tether couples the heave plate to the float body. The controller controls the tether between survivability modes. Each survivability mode adjusts a tension and/or length of the tether. 1. A wave energy conversion (WEC) system comprising:a float body;a heave plate;at least one tether to couple the heave plate to the float body; anda controller to control the at least one tether between survivability modes, wherein each survivability mode adjusts a tension and/or length of the at least one tether.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to at least partially submerge the float body below a surface of a body of water in response to a determination of a survivability event.3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the survivability event comprises a change in wave conditions.4. The system of claim 2 , wherein the survivability event comprises an anticipated change in wave conditions.5. The system of claim 2 , wherein the float body comprises at least one ballast chamber.6. The system of claim 5 , further comprising a compressor to pump air into the at least one ballast chamber to evacuate water from the at least one ballast chamber.7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller is further configured to control the at least one tether in response to a determination of a survivability event.8. The system of claim 5 , wherein the survivability event comprises a change in wave conditions.9. The system of claim 5 , wherein the survivability event comprises an anticipated change in wave conditions.10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the heave plate comprises an asymmetric heave plate. This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/399,898, filed Apr. 30, 2019, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/664,489, filed on Apr. 30, 2018. Each of these applications is incorporated by reference herein in ...

TURBINE CONTROL

The present invention provides a turbine control system and method. The turbine control system includes at least one control means accommodated on a turbine rotor wherein the control means is actuated by a controller in a first or second direction on a plane of the rotor turbine to control a rate of change of moment of inertia of the turbine and thereby controlling the operation of the turbine. The invention also provides a turbine farm including a plurality of turbines operating to provide a maximum and stable power output. The farm includes a master controller configured for controlling the operation of each of the plurality of turbines and individual controller of the turbines efficiently. 1. A control method for operating a turbine , the method comprising the steps of:actuating at least one control means coupled to the turbine in a first direction when the turbine operates above a rated power output on receipt of excess energy wherein a first portion of the excess energy is stored as energy of the actuated control means;storing a second portion of the excess energy in at least one storage means, andactuating at least one control means in a second direction by the stored energy when the turbine operates below the rated power output, wherein the at least one control means is actuated in the first direction or the second direction to control the rate of change of moment of inertia of the turbine.2. The method of wherein a controller encoded with instructions enabling the controller to actuate and control position claim 1 , speed and acceleration of the at least one control means thereby controlling the rate of change of moment of inertia (dI/dt) of the turbine in order to control a net torque acting on a drive train of the turbine.3. The method of wherein the at least one control means is actuated to move in the rotor plane radially outwards as the first direction or radially inwards as the second direction for providing the turbine a decelerating torque or an ...

WAVE-WIND MUTUALLY SUPPLEMENTING POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR CONTINUOUS POWER GENERATION

A wave-wind mutually supplementing power supply system for continuous power generation is disclosed. The system of the present invention has a wave kinetic energy module (), which comprises a wave energy harnessing unit (), a transmission shaft (), a generator unit (), a torque adjusting unit () and an automatic control unit (). The wave kinetic energy module () is disposed on/in a sea and may generate electricity through the motion of sea water. The electricity so generated is combined with a wind power generation device to provide continuous power generation. The automatic control unit () has a microprocessor () and a sea water motion sensor unit () so as to adjust the torque of the transmission shaft and control the activation of the generator unit according to the motion of the sea water. 1. A wave-wind mutually supplementing power supply system for continuous power generation , comprising:a wave kinetic energy module, which is disposed on/in a sea and may generate electricity through the motion of sea water, characterized in that the electricity so generated is combined with a wind power generation device for continuous power generation, and characterized in that:the wave kinetic energy module comprises a wave energy harnessing unit, a transmission shaft, a generator unit, a torque adjusting unit and an automatic control unit, wherein the wave energy harnessing unit may harness the kinetic energy generated through the motion of sea waves and the transmission shaft may transmit the kinetic energy harnessed by the wave energy harnessing unit to the generator unit, and wherein the generator unit may receive the kinetic energy transmitted from the transmission shaft and convert it to electricity and the torque adjusting unit is disposed on the transmission shaft so as to adjust the torque of the latter, and wherein the automatic control unit has a microprocessor and a sea water motion sensor unit so as to control the activation of the generator unit and adjust the ...

METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR WAVE ENERGY GENERATION PREDICTION AND OPTIMIZATION

Embodiments for managing a wave energy converter (WEC) device by one or more processors are described. At least one environmental characteristic associated with a WEC device in a body of water is received. A prediction of wave conditions on the body of water is calculated based on the at least one environmental characteristic. A signal representative of the prediction of wave conditions is generated. 1. A method , by one or more processors , for managing a wave energy converter (WEC) device comprising:receiving at least one environmental characteristic associated with a WEC device in a body of water;calculating a prediction of wave conditions on the body of water based on the at least one environmental characteristic; andgenerating a signal representative of the prediction of wave conditions.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the calculating of the prediction of wave conditions is performed with a computing system onboard the WEC device.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the computing system includes a machine learning module.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the machine learning module utilizes a multi-layer perceptron.5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising controlling the WEC device based on the prediction of wave conditions.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the WEC device includes a power take-off (PTO) claim 5 , and the controlling of the WEC device includes adjusting a resistance exhibited by the PTO.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one environmental characteristic is associated with at least one of winds and water currents.8. A system for managing a wave energy converter (WEC) device comprising: receives at least one environmental characteristic associated with a WEC device in a body of water;', 'calculates a prediction of wave conditions on the body of water based on the at least one environmental characteristic; and', 'generates a signal representative of the prediction of wave conditions., 'at least one processor that'}9. The system ...

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR VALIDATING A FIELD DEVICE IN A CONTROL SYSTEM

A system and method for validating the availability and operability of a field device in a process plant is provided. A diagnostic apparatus includes a processor coupled to the field device wherein a diagnostic check is executed to remotely determine the availability and operability of the field device. 1. A liquid level control system comprising:a movable assembly including a bar, the bar of the movable assembly including a proximate end and a distal end;a displacer attached to the distal end of the bar;an actuator operatively connected to the movable assembly;a processor coupled to the actuator and capable of moving the displacer via the movable assembly;a sensor including an input and an output, the input of the sensor operatively coupled to the movable assembly for receiving an input signal representative of a characteristic of the displacer or an operating environment, the output of the sensor operatively coupled to the processor for providing an output signal associated with the input signal;a memory coupled to the processor;an actuating module stored on the memory, which when executed on the processor, actuates the actuator;an output device coupled to the processor; andan exhibiting module stored on the memory, which when executed on the processor, exhibits the output signal of the sensor on the output device.2. The level control system of claim 1 , wherein the output signal of the sensor includes a discrete value representative of the characteristic of the displacer or the operating environment.3. The level control system of claim 2 , wherein the discrete value indicates a first state corresponding to the displacer positioned below a predetermined level or a second state corresponding to the displacer positioned at or above the predetermined level.4. The level control system of claim 1 , wherein the output signal of the sensor includes a continuous value representative of the characteristic of the displacer or the operating environment.5. The level control ...

Natural-frequency adjusting mechanism for wave-power generator

Provided is a wave-power generator capable of adjusting a natural period (natural frequency) in response to a changing wave period. The wave-power generator includes a weight that is installed in a floating body via a spring and that linearly reciprocates in response to a fluctuation of a water surface and a generator that generates power by being driven based on the linear reciprocating motion of the weight. An additional-mass body for adding a mass to the mass of the weight is further included.

Sea wave energy converter capable of resonant operation

A sea wave energy harvesting system includes a sea wave energy harvesting vessel positioned in the sea. The sea wave energy harvesting system dynamically adapts the motion of the sea wave energy harvesting vessel responsive to the sensed sea wave conditions to more closely align a resonant frequency of the sea wave energy harvesting vessel with the current harmonic motion of the sea waves.

HYDRAULIC DRIVETRAIN, METHOD OF STARTING SAME, POWER GENERATOR AND METHOD OF STARTING SAME

The present invention provides a hydraulic drive train including a check valve provided in a return oil passage disposed between a branching position of a first branching oil passage and a branching position of a second branching oil passage, wherein at the time of starting of startup of the hydraulic drive train, the switching valve is closed, the opening degree of the flow rate adjusting valve is set to the initial opening degree, the on-off valve is opened, the boost pump is driven by the drive motor, and the hydraulic oil is supplied to the hydraulic pump, thereby assisting the rotational speed of the vanes by the hydraulic oil. 1. A hydraulic drive train comprising:a hydraulic pump configured to be rotated by rotation of a first rotating shaft provided with vanes, wherein the first rotating shaft is rotated by the action of the vanes;a hydraulic motor configured to rotate a second rotating shaft connected to a power generator;a supply oil passage configured to supply hydraulic oil from the hydraulic pump to the hydraulic motor;a return oil passage configured to return the hydraulic oil from the hydraulic motor to the hydraulic pump;a bypass oil passage configured to connect the return oil passage to the supply oil passage;a switching valve provided in a portion of the supply oil passage located to be closer to the hydraulic motor side than a connection position between the supply oil passage and the bypass oil passage;a flow rate adjusting valve provided in the bypass oil passage;an oil tank configured to store the hydraulic oil therein;a first branching oil passage which is branched from a portion of the return oil passage located to be closer to the hydraulic pump side than a connection position between the return oil passage and the bypass oil passage, and has a distal end reaching the hydraulic oil stored in the oil tank;a boost pump which is provided in the first branching oil passage and is configured to supply hydraulic oil from the oil tank at a ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EFFICIENT WATER TURBINE OPERATION

A system includes a water turbine, a plurality of positioning winches coupled to the water turbine and a plurality of positioning cables. An individual positioning cable extends between a fixed point at a first end and the water turbine at a second end and is coupled to a corresponding positioning winch that is configured to extend and retract the individual positioning cable between the fixed point and the water turbine. A plurality of sensors is configured to sense water conditions around the water turbine. A position control system is connected to the plurality of positioning winches and connected to the plurality of sensors. The position control system is configured to position the water turbine using the plurality of positioning winches according to the water conditions sensed by the plurality of sensors. 1. A system comprising:a water turbine;a plurality of positioning winches coupled to the water turbine;a plurality of positioning cables, an individual positioning cable extending between a fixed point at a first end and the water turbine at a second end and coupled to a corresponding positioning winch that is configured to extend and retract the individual positioning cable between the fixed point and the water turbine;a plurality of sensors configured to sense water conditions around the water turbine; anda position control system connected to the plurality of positioning winches and connected to the plurality of sensors, the position control system configured to position the water turbine using the plurality of positioning winches according to the water conditions sensed by the plurality of sensors.2. The system of wherein the plurality of positioning winches are configured in pairs and the position control system is configured to position the water turbine by extending a portion of positioning cable from a first winch of a pair and retracting a corresponding portion of positioning cable from a second winch of the pair.3. The system of wherein the plurality ...

Hydroelectric power generation apparatus

A hydroelectric power generation apparatus includes a hydroelectric power generation module, a supporting part, and a bar. The hydroelectric power generation module includes a rotary blade and a power generator that generates power by rotation of the rotary blade. The supporting part supports the hydroelectric power generation module. The supporting part can be installed at a water channel. The bar is connected to the supporting part to protrude from the supporting part. With one end of the bar closer to the supporting part or a portion of the supporting part serving as a center, the other end of the bar opposite to one end of the bar can be pivoted to switch a first state to a second state and vice versa.

POWER GENERATING PLANT AND FLOATING PLANT FOR RIVERS AND CANALS

A power generating and floating plant () over a natural river, a man-made canal or similar for the generation of electricity that comprises: a floating platform () of the Catamaran type with pontoons () that speed up the flow rate () entering into a turbine; a metal gate () between said pontoons () before the turbine; at least one turbine with a central shaft (), wherein said turbine comprises a water wheel () with curved vanes () and at least two supporting disks (), where said curved vanes () rest, and where said supporting disks () comprise a plurality of radial and concentric holes (); and a low-engine speed, permanent magnet generator (). 1. A power generating and floating plant over a natural river , a man-made canal or similar for the generation of electricity COMPRISING:a floating platform of the Catamaran type with pontoons that speed up the flow rate entering into a turbine,a metal gate between said pontoons before the turbine,at least one turbine with a central shaft, where said turbine comprises a water wheel with curved vanes and at least two supporting disks, where said curved vanes rest, and where said supporting disks comprise a plurality of radial and concentric holes; anda low-engine speed, permanent magnet generator.2. The power generating and floating plant according to claim 1 , WHEREIN said platform is fastened to a stabilizing bar fixed to regulating cylinders in at least one side of the river or canal.3. The power generating and floating plant according to claim 2 , WHEREIN said regulating cylinders are inserted in reinforced concrete structures.4. The power generating and floating plant according to claim 3 , WHEREIN said stabilizing bar is fixed to said regulating cylinders through fastening means at the ends of said stabilizing bar claim 3 , where said fastening means can be displaced over said regulating cylinders between two stops.5. The power generating and floating plant according to claim 4 , WHEREIN said regulating cylinders are of ...

ENERGY GENERATION FROM BOUYANCY EFFECT

A power generation apparatus for underwater power generation including at least two balloons completely submerged under a water surface of a water body, wherein a first balloon is filled with a gas and a second balloon is initially empty, a first and a second flexible hose, a plurality of hose reels, a plurality of pulleys, a cord connecting the first balloon and the second balloon, a pump connected to the first flexible hose and the second flexible hose in an airtight manner, a first valve, a second valve, at least two pressure sensors and at least two flow rate sensors, a generator. The apparatus further includes a power controller that reads data from the at least two pressure sensors and the at least two flow rate sensors to control the opening of the first valve, the second valve, and a pumping direction of the pump. 1. A power generation apparatus for underwater power generation comprising:at least two balloons completely submerged under a water surface of a water body, wherein a first balloon is filled with a gas and a second balloon is initially empty;a plurality of flexible hoses connected to the at least two balloons, wherein a first flexible hose of the plurality of flexible hoses is connected to the first balloon in an airtight manner and a second flexible hose of the plurality of flexible hoses is connected to the second balloon in an airtight manner;a plurality of hose reels attached to supports that are fixed to a floor underwater, each hose reel winds one of the plurality of the flexible hoses;a plurality of pulleys hinged to a support that is fixed to the floor underwater;a cord that freely passes over the plurality of pulleys and connects to the first balloon and the second balloon;a pump connected to a first pipe and a second pipe, the first pipe connected to the first flexible hose and the second pipe connected to the second flexible hose each in an airtight manner;a first valve located in the first pipe, and a second valve located in the second ...

Apparatus for generating electricity from a tidal or ocean current water flow

Apparatus ( 2 ) for generating electricity from a tidal or ocean current water flow, which apparatus ( 2 ) comprises: • a plurality of electrical generators ( 4 ) for generating electricity; and • each electrical generator ( 4 ) comprises a rotor ( 8 ), a stator ( 10 ), and a housing ( 12 ); • the housing ( 12 ) is a multi-sided housing constructed such that the electrical generators ( 4 ) are stably connected together; • the apparatus ( 2 ) includes positioning means ( 20 ) for positioning the apparatus ( 2 ) above a waterbed ( 22 ); and • the apparatus ( 2 ) includes position-adjusting means ( 24 ) for adjusting the height and/or the direction of the housing ( 12 ) such that the housing ( 12 ) is always able to be at a height and pointing in a direction for receiving maximum flow of water through the housing ( 12 ), and thereby to enable the apparatus ( 2 ) to generate a maximum amount of electricity from the water flow.

Method for controlling a wave-energy system by determining the excitation force applied by waves incident upon a moving part of the said system

The invention relates to the real-time determination of the forces applied by waves incident upon the moving part ( 2 ) of a wave-energy system ( 1 ). The method according to the invention is based on the construction of a model of the radiation force applied to the moving part ( 2 ) and a model of the dynamics of the wave-energy system ( 1 ). The invention uses only measurements of the kinematics of the moving part ( 2 ) and the force applied by the conversion machine ( 3 ) to the moving part ( 2 ).

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A WAVE-ENERGY-CONVERTER SYSTEM TAKING INTO ACCOUNT UNCERTAINTIES

The present invention is a method for controlling a wave-energy-converter system, wherein the gains of a control law having a proportional component are optimally determined in terms of the harvest of energy, and are robust with respect to uncertainties in the dynamics of the wave-energy-converter system. The harvest of energy is maximized for the worst case described by the uncertainties, by solving a semidefinite-positive optimization problem. 114.-. (canceled)15. A method for controlling a wave-energy-converter system that converts energy of sea swells into electrical or hydraulic energy , the wave-energy-converter system comprising at least one movable float linked to a power take-off , and the movable float making an oscillatory movement with respect to the power take-off comprising steps of:a) measuring at least one of position, speed and acceleration of the movable float;b) estimating the force exerted by the swell on the movable float from the measurement of at least one of position and speed of the movable float;c) determining at least one dominant frequency of the force exerted by the swell on the movable float, by an unscented Kalman filter;d) determining a control value for the force exerted by the power take-off on the movable float to maximize power generated by the power take-off by:i) determining intrinsic resistance for the at least one determined dominant frequency and determining reactance of the movable float, uncertainty intervals of the intrinsic resistance and reactance of the power take-off;ii) determining at least one coefficient of a variable-gain control law including a proportional component from a semidefinite-positive optimization of maximization of the power generated by the power take-off, the semidefinite-positive optimization accounting for the intrinsic resistance and reactance of the movable float and the uncertainty intervals of the intrinsic resistance and reactance of the power take-off; ande) controlling the power take-off ...

Speed Converter-Controlled River Turbines

A river turbine for harnessing a predetermined minimum or baseload value of hydrokinetic energy from river current received at a harnessing module comprises the harnessing module, a controlling module and a generating module. Han's principle is that, in a torque balanced speed converter Hummingbird system, the generated electric power (output) from a harnessed input power (input) must exceed the electric power used for the control motor (control). Harnessed power is provided to the power balanced three variable mechanical control system when a control power line graph is crossed by an output power line graph to achieve an electrical advantage. The three variable mechanical motion control system comprises a Hummingbird control assembly of first and second spur/helical/ring/bevel/miter/worm and pinion gear assemblies or Transgear assemblies. The Hummingbird control, a control motor and a generator among other components may be mounted on a floating platform for delivery of constant power at constant frequency given sufficient input from a waterwheel harnessing module driven by river current flow in at least one direction. 1. A control assembly for controlling variable rotational speed input such that an output of the control assembly provides a constant speed output from a variable rotational speed input , the control assembly for outputting a predetermined value of electric energy according to an adjustment function , the control assembly comprising:an energy harnessing module designed to harness renewable energy from the flow of water current, the harnessing module requiring a depth of water and a speed of water to capture the predetermined value of electric energy for delivery to a load,a first Transgear assembly comprising an input shaft from the energy harnessing module, the harnessing module being designed for a specific location on a river, the input shaft from the energy harnessing module for receiving a variable rotational speed input from water flow energy ...

DOWNHOLE POWER GENERATION SYSTEM AND OPTIMIZED POWER CONTROL METHOD THEREOF

A downhole power generation system is disclosed, which includes a turbine generator system. The turbine generator system includes a turbine, a generator coupled with the turbine and having an AC-DC rectifier, and an optimized power control unit. The turbine is driven by flow of a downhole fluid to rotate. The generator converts rotational energy from the turbine to electrical energy and outputting a direct current voltage. The turbine generator system is coupled to a load via the optimized power control unit. The optimized power control unit controls to regulate an output voltage of the generator and provides a regulated output voltage to the load so that the turbine generator system has an optimized power output. An optimized power control method for a downhole power generation system is also disclosed. 1. A downhole power generation system , comprising: a turbine driven by flow of a downhole fluid to rotate; and', 'a generator coupled with the turbine and having an AC-DC rectifier, wherein the generator is configured for converting rotational energy from the turbine to electrical energy and outputting a direct current voltage; and, 'a turbine generator system comprisingan optimized power control unit via which the turbine generator system is coupled to a load, wherein the optimized power control unit is configured for controlling to regulate an output voltage of the generator and providing a regulated output voltage to the load so that the turbine generator system has an optimized power output.2. The downhole power generation system of claim 1 , wherein the optimized power control unit is configured for regularly disconnecting the generator from the load and measuring an output voltage of the generator after disconnection claim 1 , and reconnecting the generator with the load and regulating the output voltage of the generator equal to the measured output voltage of the generator multiplied by an optimized voltage ratio predefined for optimized power control.3. The ...

Hydraulic installation and method of operating such an installation

The present invention relates to a hydraulic installation where sediment concentration in the water flow circulating through the cited installation is monitored continuously. According to the invention, the hydraulic installation comprises a pressure-reducing device and a primary sensor: the pressure reducing device decreases the pressure and discharge of upstream water flow, comprising sediments, allowing that the primary sensor can operate continuously measuring sediment concentration from the upstream water flow. The hydraulic installation also comprises a calibrating device, providing the primary sensor with a reference value to be used for comparison matters and for establishing the content of sediment in the water flow.

WAVE POWER GENERATION DEVICE AND METHOD OF CONTROLLING THE SAME

A wave power generation device which eliminates addition of an adjustment mechanism relating to a change in a mass or a shape to a float and an external sensor such as a wave meter and can improve power generation efficiency by synchronizing a vertical movement of the float with all the wave periods while a manufacturing cost of the wave power generation device is suppressed and a method of controlling the same are provided. 1. A wave power generation device comprising:a body;a float configured to move vertically along the body;a transmission mechanism configured to convert the vertical movement of the float to a rotary movement; anda power generator connected to the transmission mechanism, whereinthe wave power generation device has a controller configured to control a torque of the power generator; and either one of a configuration in which a displacement z and a speed z′ of the float are estimated from data of a rotation number or a rotation speed of the power generator, a wave period is estimated from the displacement z and the speed z′, and a displacement coefficient A corresponding to the wave period is determined from a data table stored in advance or a configuration in which the displacement z and the speed z′ of the float are obtained from an acceleration sensor installed in the float, the wave period is estimated from the displacement z and the speed z′, and the displacement coefficient A corresponding to the wave period is determined from the data table; and', {'b': '1', 'a configuration in which a product calculated from the displacement coefficient A and the displacement z is transmitted as a torque command Tq to the power generator so as to control a torque of the power generator.'}], 'the controller has2. The wave power generation device according to claim 1 , whereinthe controller has:a configuration in which a speed coefficient B is determined in addition to the displacement coefficient A corresponding to the wave period from the data table; and{'b ...

KINETIC ENERGY HARVESTING USING CYBER-PHYSICAL SYSTEMS

The present invention provides a system for engaging a fluid flow. The system comprising one or more foil members operationally connected to a feedback control loop system. In one embodiment, the foil member is a hydrofoil member or an airfoil member. The foil members are configured for one or more degrees of freedom of oscillatory movement within the fluid flow. The feedback control loop system comprises a sensor system, actuator system, and a controller system. The feedback control loop system configured for actuating the foil members and thereby optimizing the operation of the foil members to attain one or more optimization objectives. In operation, the foil members are situated in the fluid flow and are manipulated to attain one or more optimization objectives. 1. A cyber-physical system for engaging a fluid flow , comprising:one or more foil members having one or more degrees of freedom of oscillatory movement within the fluid flow; anda feedback control loop system operationally connected to the foil members to actuate the foil members for purposes of attaining one or more optimization objectives.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the foil member is a hydrofoil member configured to have two degrees of freedom to pitch and plunge.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the foil member is an airfoil member configured to have two degrees of freedom to pitch and plunge.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the feedback control loop system comprises a sensor system configured for directly or indirectly measuring and monitoring the optimization objective during a predetermined time interval.5. The system of claim 4 , wherein the sensor system is configured to determine the energy extracted by monitoring and measuring the foil members degrees of freedom of motion and its conjugate forces.6. The system of claim 4 , wherein the sensor system is connected to the foil members.7. The system of claim 4 , wherein the feedback control loop system comprises an actuator system ...

STORED ENERGY SYSTEM

A hydrostatically based energy conversion unit, which comprises a vertically oriented cylinder; a piston sealingly engaged with and vertically displaceable within the cylinder; a horizontal shaft rotatably mounted to a surface located above the cylinder and mechanically connected to the piston; a motor for driving the shaft in a first rotational direction; and a generator coupled to the shaft for producing electrical power when the shaft rotates in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction. The piston is vertically displaceable in a first vertical direction during a charging mode following operation of the motor, and is vertically displaceable in a second vertical direction opposite to the first vertical direction during a power generating mode after being hydrostatically driven to produce electrical power in conjunction with the generator. 1. A hydrostatically based energy conversion unit , comprising:a) a vertically oriented cylinder;b) a piston sealingly engaged with and vertically displaceable within said cylinder;c) a horizontal shaft rotatably mounted to a surface located above said cylinder and mechanically connected to said piston;d) a motor for driving said shaft in a first rotational direction; ande) a generator coupled to said shaft for producing electrical power when said shaft rotates in a second rotational direction opposite to said first rotational direction,wherein said piston is vertically displaceable in a first vertical direction during a charging mode following operation of said motor, and is vertically displaceable in a second vertical direction opposite to said first vertical direction during a power generating mode after being hydrostatically driven to produce electrical power in conjunction with said generator.2. The energy conversion unit according to claim 1 , further comprising a reservoir within which a liquid dischargeable from the cylinder is collectable.3. The energy conversion unit according to claim 1 , ...

Kinetic modular machine for producing energy from fluid flows

A kinetic modular machine for producing electricity from flows, either mono or bi-directional, moving at different speeds, includes one or more turbines that are “open center” and coaxial; a floating/positioning system; and a connection between the kinetic modular machine and a docking. Each turbine has a rotor, a stator, and a synchronous generator. In different configurations, the turbines are structurally, mechanically and electrically independent. The floating/positioning system includes a floater, a wing, and a fixture linking the turbines to the floater, implementing the control of the rotational axes (roll, pitch, yaw), with the wing keeping the machine at a given distance from the shore and the fluid surface. The modular design, having independent turbines, allows for a flexible design, keeping the installation and maintenance costs low. 1. A modular kinetic machine (M) for producing electricity from fluid flows , the modular kinetic machine being adapted to be floating in a fluid , “open center” , with a swept area fully immersed and perpendicular to flow direction , comprising:one or more turbines (T; where i=1, 2, . . . n) that are mechanically and electrically independent; anda floating/positioning control device (F),wherein each turbine is structurally, mechanically, and electrically independent, by comprising a rotor with blades, a stator, and a built-in generator.2. The modular kinetic machine (M) claim 1 , according to the claim 1 , wherein each rotor and stator comprise parts centered on an axis of the modular kinetic machine rotational claim 1 , the parts being arranged to cause a minimal radial runout and a minimal out of bound runout among rotational parts.3510. The modular kinetic machine (M) claim 1 , according to the claim 1 , wherein a number of blades ( claim 1 , ) is a maximum number suitable dimensions and performances of the kinetic modular machine claim 1 , so as to reduce a load for each blade and allow using materials having a lower ...

MARINE TURBINE PIVOT SUPPORT

A water current power generator having an energy capture assembly, a preferred energy capture axis, and a support for carrying the capture assembly. The generator has steering means for steering the capture assembly relative to the support, the steering means being arranged to steer the capture assembly by pivoting the capture assembly about at least one axis of the support, and to perform said steering in such a manner that when the capture assembly is immersed in a fluid flow presenting a flow direction and a given minimum flow speed, the preferred energy capture axis is substantially oriented parallel to the flow direction, the steering means also including resilient return means for returning the capture assembly towards a reference angular position of the capture assembly relative to the support. 1. A water current power generator comprising an energy capture assembly adapted to capture mechanical energy from a fluid flow , the capture assembly having a preferred energy capture axis such that the efficiency of mechanical energy capture by the capture assembly is at a maximum when the preferred energy capture axis extends parallel to a flow direction of fluid in which the capture assembly is immersed , the generator also having a support for carrying the capture assembly , the generator being characterized in that it includes steering means for steering the capture assembly relative to the support , the steering means being arranged to steer the capture assembly by pivoting the capture assembly about at least one axis of the support , and to perform said steering in such a manner that when the capture assembly is immersed in a fluid flow presenting a flow direction and a given minimum flow speed , the preferred energy capture axis is substantially oriented parallel to the flow direction , the steering means also including resilient return means for returning the capture assembly towards a reference angular position of the capture assembly relative to the support ...

SENSOR ARRANGEMENT FOR A TIDAL GENERATOR

This invention relates to a generator arrangement, including: a generator located within a flow passage wherein the flow passage has an inlet and an outlet, and the generator includes at least one contra-rotating blade arrangement which is configured to be rotated about a principle axis of the generator by a flow of liquid in the flow passage, and wherein the at least one blade has an adjustable pitch; an array of sensors located downstream of the blade arrangement for detecting the outlet flow conditions; a controller for determining the outlet flow conditions on the basis of conditions sensed by the sensor array; and, a pitch control system for adjusting the pitch of the at least one blade so as to affect the flow conditions at the outlet of the flow passage. 1. A generator arrangement , comprising:a generator located within a flow passage wherein the flow passage has an inlet and an outlet, and the generator includes at least one contra-rotating blade arrangement which is configured to be rotated about a principle axis of the generator by a flow of liquid in the flow passage, and wherein at least one of the contra-rotating blades has an adjustable pitch;an array of sensors located downstream of the blade arrangement for detecting the outlet flow conditions;a controller for determining the outlet flow conditions on the basis of conditions sensed by the sensor array; and,a pitch control system for adjusting the pitch of the at least one blade so as to affect the flow conditions at the outlet of the flow passage.2. A generator arrangement as claimed in wherein the at least one sensor array is located on a support member.3. A generator arrangement as claimed in wherein the support member is a strut for supporting the electrical generator within the flow passage.4. A generator arrangement as claimed in wherein the sensor array includes three upstream sensors and one downstream sensor.5. A generator arrangement as claimed in wherein the sensors are pressure sensors.6. ...

Turbomachinery Having Self-Articulating Blades, Shutter Valve, Partial-Admission Shutters, and/or Variable-Pitch Inlet Nozzles

An axial-flow turbine assembly that includes one or more features for enhancing the efficiency of the turbine's operation. In one embodiment, the turbine assembly includes a turbine rotor having blades that adjust their pitch angle in direct response to working fluid pressure on the blades themselves or other part(s) of the rotor. In other embodiments, the turbine assembly is deployable in an application, such as an oscillating water column system, in which the flow of working fluid varies over time, for example, as pressure driving the flow changes. In a first of these embodiments, the turbine assembly includes a valve that allows the pressure to build so that the flow is optimized for the turbine's operating parameters. In a second of these embodiments, one or more variable-admission nozzle and shutter assemblies are provided to control the flow through the turbine to optimize the flow relative to the turbine's operating parameters. 1. An oscillating water column (OWC) system , comprising:a structure containing an air-water chamber designed and configured to receive water waves in a manner that changes the volume of air within said air-water chamber during operation, wherein said structure includes an opening between said air-water chamber and an air environment outside said chamber when said structure is deployed;an air-turbine mounted in said opening and designed and configured to be driven by air flowing through said opening during operation of the OWC system;a valve located in said opening and designed and configured to modulate the flow of air through said air-turbine during operation of the OWC system; anda control system designed and configured to modulate said valve in a manner that allows pressure within said air-water chamber to build to a predetermined magnitude before opening said valve.2. An OWC system according to claim 1 , wherein said valve is a shutter valve having pivotable blades claim 1 , and the OWC system further comprises an actuation ...

Mechanical System for Extracting Energy From Marine Waves

A mechanical structure used for extracting energy from oscillating marine waves is submitted. The apparatus comprises a plurality of buoyant tanks connected by a plurality of horizontal outriggers through a hinge assembly to a vertical frame located between the buoyant tanks. Marine waves create a pitching motion in the tanks forcing the outriggers to ascend and descend causing the vertical frame to rotate perpendicularly along the horizontal axis of the hinge. The power extraction system is comprised of a plurality of hydraulic cylinders connected to the vertical frame and outriggers. The pitching motion of the buoyant tanks and outriggers produce a vertical rotation along the horizontal axis of the hinge in the vertical frame, which forces contraction and expansion of the hydraulic cylinder assembly, thus extracting power from the relative motion between the members. 1. An apparatus for extracting energy from oscillating fluid comprising:a structural support assembly;a hydraulic assembly;an electrical assembly comprising a prime mover assembly and a generator;a float assembly comprising a plurality of hydraulic support, a rear tank float assembly and a front tank float assembly;wherein said structural support assembly is mechanically coupled to said rear tank float assembly and said front tank float assembly; andwherein said prime mover assembly and said generator are inside said a rear tank float assembly.2. The apparatus as in claim 1 , wherein said structural support assembly comprises a supporting frame claim 1 , a movable joint claim 1 , at least a first elongated member and a second elongated member; and wherein said first elongated member is mechanically coupled to the rear tank float assembly and said second elongated member is mechanically coupled to the front tank float assembly.3. The apparatus as in claim 2 , wherein the at least first elongated member and said second elongated member are mechanically coupled to the movable joint.4. The apparatus as in ...

METHOD FOR OPERATING A TURBOMACHINE, WHEREIN AN EFFICIENCY CHARACTERISTIC VALUE OF A STAGE IS DETERMINED, AND TURBOMACHINE HAVING A DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT THE METHOD

A turbo-machine, which can be operated in an optimized driving range is provided. To this end, a method for operating a turbo-machine having at least one turbo-machine stage, which has at least one rotary shaft is disclosed. According to the method, the following method steps are carried out: a) determining a desired efficiency characteristic value ηof the turbomachine stage; b) determining an actual efficiency characteristic value ηof the turbo-machine-stage; c) determining a comparison efficiency characteristic value of the turbo-machine stage by comparing the actual efficiency characteristic value ηand the desired efficiency characteristic value ηto one another; and d) changing at least one operating parameter of the turbo-machine stage subject to the comparison efficiency characteristic value η, wherein in order to determine the actual efficiency characteristic value η, a measuring of a torque of the rotary shaft of the turbo-machine-stage is carried out. 1. A method for operating a turbomachine including at least one turbomachine stage with at least one rotary shaft , the method comprising:{'sub': 'soll', 'a) determining a desired efficiency characteristic value ηof the at least one turbomachine stage;'}{'sub': 'ist', 'b) establishing an actual efficiency characteristic value ηof the at least one turbomachine stage;'}{'sub': vgl', 'ist', 'soll, 'c) establishing a comparison efficiency characteristic value ηof the at least one turbomachine stage by comparing the actual efficiency characteristic value ηand the desired efficiency characteristic value ηto one another; and'}{'sub': vgl', 'ist, 'd) modifying at least one operating parameter of the at least one turbomachine stage in a manner dependent on the comparison efficiency characteristic value η, wherein a torque of the at least one rotary shaft of the at least one turbomachine stage is measured for establishing the actual efficiency characteristic value η.'}2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein a ...

POWER GENERATING SYSTEMS

Power generating equipment includes a support structure adapted to be disposed on the bed of a body of water having a surface above the bed; and a buoyant power generating apparatus having positive buoyancy releasably connectable to the support structure, the power generating apparatus being adapted to be released from the support structure and to make controlled free ascent to the surface of the water following such release. 114-. (canceled)15. Power generating equipment comprising:a support structure adapted to be disposed on the bed of a body of water having a surface above the bed; anda buoyant power generating apparatus having positive buoyancy releasably connectable to the support structure, the power generating apparatus being adapted to be released from the support structure and to make controlled free ascent to the surface of the water following such release.16. Power generating equipment as claimed in claim 15 , in which the power generating apparatus is a tidal turbine.17. Power generating equipment as claimed in claim 15 , in which the equipment further comprises an umbilical comprising a first end for attachment to the power generating apparatus and/or support structure and a second end for attachment to a retrieval structure claim 15 , in which the umbilical is arranged in use to supply electrical power and/or control signals to control the releasable connection between the power generating apparatus and the support structure.18. Power generating equipment as claimed in claim 15 , in which the equipment further comprises an umbilical comprising a first end for attachment to the power generating apparatus and/or support structure and a second end for attachment to a retrieval structure claim 15 , in which the umbilical is arranged in use to supply electrical power and/or control signals to control the releasable connection between the power generating apparatus and the support structure claim 15 , and in which the first end of the umbilical is attached ...

AUTOMATIC HEIGHT ADJUSTING PADDLE WHEEL

An automatic height adjusting paddle wheel comprising a housing, where the housing includes a pair of side portions; a paddle wheel positioned along a shaft within the housing; a pair of hoists attached to shaft on each side of the paddle wheel, where each hoists includes a cable coupled to a top portion of the housing; a means to detect a water level fastened to the cable within the hoists, where the means to detect the water level activates the hoists to lift the shaft as the water level raises and lowers in turn raising and lowering the paddle wheel; and a generator at each end of the shaft, where the generator produces electric power as the paddle wheel rotates within the water. 1. An automatic height adjusting paddle wheel comprising:a. a housing, where the housing includes a pair of side portions;b. a paddle wheel positioned along a shaft within the housing;c. a pair of hoists attached to the shaft on each side of the paddle wheel, where each hoists includes a cable coupled to a top portion of the housing;d. a means to detect a water level fastened to the cable within the hoists, where the means to detect the water level activate the hoists to lift the shaft as the water level raises and lowers in turn raising and lowering the paddle wheel; ande. a generator at each end of the shaft, where the generator produces electric power as the paddle wheel rotates within the water.2. The automatic height adjusting paddle wheel according to claim 1 , where the means to detect the water level is a float at attached to the cable at a bottom of each hoist claim 1 , where the cable moves the shaft along a track as the float moves atop the water.3. The automatic height adjusting paddle wheel according to claim 1 , where the means to detect the water level is a computer controller coupled to the hoist claim 1 , where the computer controller includes a pair of lasers claim 1 , where a first laser detects the water level to power a motor within the hoist to lift the shaft claim ...

WATER CURRENT POWER GENERATION STRUCTURE

A water current power generation structure including: a power generation unit including a main body, a mounting portion which extends from the main body and which defines a mounting axis; a support structure adapted for engagement with a bed of a body of water, and including a support housing; wherein the structure further includes a yaw mechanism for rotating the power generation unit relative to the support structure, the mechanism including: a pinion associated with the mounting portion; and a gear associated within the support housing and arranged to engage the pinion to rotate the power generation unit about the mounting axis relative to the support structure; and a selective engagement mechanism for selectively engaging the yaw mechanism. 2. A structure as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the gear is supported by the mounting portion.3. A structure as claimed in claim 1 , in which the gear is an annular gear.4. A structure as claimed in claim 1 , in which the gear is arranged to extend around the inner periphery of the support housing or the mounting portion.5. A structure as claimed in claim 1 , in which the selective engagement mechanism comprises a clutch arranged to selectively allow relative rotation between the gear and the support housing.6. A structure as claimed in claim 1 , in which the selective engagement mechanism comprises a clutch arranged to selectively allow relative rotation between the gear and the support housing claim 1 , wherein the clutch is radially expandable to provide a selective engagement between the gear and the support housing.7. A structure as claimed in claim 1 , in which the selective engagement mechanism comprises a clutch arranged to selectively allow relative rotation between the gear and the support housing claim 1 , wherein the clutch is axially engagable to provide a selective engagement between the gear and the support housing.8. A structure as claimed in claim 1 , in which the selective engagement mechanism comprises an ...

WAVE POWER GENERATOR

A wave power generator comprises a buoyant casing () intended to float in a body of water. An electric machine () located within the casing has an armature and a field source, the electric machine having a fixed part coupled to the casing and a moving part. A counterweight assembly () is movable within the casing, comprising the moving part of the electric machine and wherein a relative movement of the counterweight assembly and the fixed part of the electric machine generates electric power. Power storage () stores power generated by the electric machine and a control system () determines a bi-directional energy flow between the power storage and the armature, wherein energy is returned to the electric machine to drive a motion of the counterweight assembly anti-symmetrically to a motion of the casing. 1. A wave power generator comprising:a buoyant casing intended to float in a body of water;an electric machine located within the casing comprising an armature and a field source, the electric machine having a fixed part coupled to the casing and a moving part;a counterweight assembly that is movable within the casing, comprising the moving part of the electric machine and wherein a relative movement of the counterweight assembly and the fixed part of the electric machine generates electric power;power storage that stores power generated by the electric machine;a control system that determines a bi-directional energy flow between the power storage and the armature, wherein energy is returned to the electric machine to drive a motion of the counterweight assembly anti-symmetrically to a motion of the casing.2. A wave power generator according to comprising a restoring force device located between the casing and the counterweight assembly claim 1 , the restoring force device exerting a restoring force on the counterweight assembly if the assembly moves within the casing.3. A wave power generator according to wherein the restoring force device comprises at least one of: ...

Flow controller

The present invention relates to a flow controller configured to selectively act as a pump or as a flow regulator. The flow controller comprises: an inlet for a fluid; an outlet for the fluid; a pump assembly arranged between the inlet and the outlet and configured to pump the fluid through the flow controller from the inlet to the outlet; a hydro electrical generator assembly arranged between the inlet and the outlet, the hydro electrical generator assembly configured to allow the fluid flow through the flow controller from the inlet to the outlet and to generate electricity by transforming flow energy of the fluid flowing through the flow controller into electricity; and a mode controller configured to selectively set the flow controller in a pumping mode or in an electricity generating mode.

VARIABLE GUIDE BEARING

A guide bearing system including a pad adjuster to traverse at least one bearing in a direction to adjust a radial clearance. The system can further include a sensor for measuring deviations in the radial clearance. In some embodiments, the guide bearing system includes a controller that receives a distance signal from the sensor measuring the radial clearance and signals the pad adjuster to traverse the at least one bearing to compensate for the deviations in the radial clearance. 1. A method for maintaining a radial clearance between a variable guide bearing and a shaft of a turbine comprising:measuring a baseline radial clearance between at least one guide bearing and the shaft of the turbine;engaging a pad adjuster system to the at least one guide bearing, the pad adjuster includes a prime mover in communication to the at least one variable guide bearing through a transmission, wherein the pad adjuster system actuated by a motive force from the prime mover that traverses the at least one guide bearing in a direction to adjust a radial clearance;measuring radial clearance deviations between the at least one guide bearing and the shaft of the turbine;calculating a difference between the radial clearance deviations and the baseline radial clearance; andactuating the prime mover to adjust the at least one guide bearing to compensate for the difference between the radial clearance deviations and the baseline radial clearance.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method is a computer implemented method.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the pad adjuster system includes a threaded pad adjuster in contact with a back surface of the at least one bearing guide claim 1 , an active gear that is communication with the threaded pad adjuster in a con-collinear fashion relative to the length of the pad adjuster.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the active gear is a worm gear.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the worm gear is in threaded engagement to a driveshaft gear that ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING HYDROELECTRIC TURBINES

A hydroelectric turbine array system comprises an array of turbine systems and a supervisory controller. Each turbine system of the array comprises a hydroelectric turbine and a control system. The control system includes a converter system arranged to convert AC power, supplied by a generator connected to the hydroelectric turbine and having a voltage and frequency that is a function of a rotational speed of the hydroelectric turbine, to AC power having a voltage and frequency of a transmission system for transmitting the AC power to a receiving station and a control unit co-operable with the converter system to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator. The supervisory controller determines a performance level of a plurality of hydroelectric turbines within the array and instructs the control unit of at least one of the turbine systems to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator to alter the power generated by the at least one of the turbine systems to thereby control the overall power generated by the array. 1. A hydroelectric turbine array system comprising: a hydroelectric turbine; and', a converter system, arranged to convert AC power, supplied by a generator connected to the hydroelectric turbine, and having a voltage and frequency that is a function of a rotational speed of the hydroelectric turbine, to AC power having a voltage and frequency of a transmission system for transmitting the AC power to a receiving station; and', 'a control unit, the control unit being co-operable with the converter system to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator; and, 'a control system, the control system having, 'a supervisory controller, the supervisory controller arranged to determine a performance level of a plurality of hydroelectric turbines within the array and to instruct the control unit of at least one of the turbine systems to adjust the AC voltage supplied by the generator to alter the power generated by the at least one of the turbine systems ...

Model predictive control of parametric excited pitch-surge modes in wave energy converters

A parametric excitation dynamic model is used for a three degrees-of-freedom (3-DOF) wave energy converter. Since the heave motion is uncoupled from the pitch and surge modes, the pitch-surge equations of motion can be treated as a linear time varying system, or a linear system with parametric excitation. In such case the parametric exciting frequency can be tuned to twice the natural frequency of the system for higher energy harvesting. A parametric excited 3-DOF wave energy converter can harvest more power, for both regular and irregular waves, compared to the linear 3-DOF. For example, in a Bretschneider wave, the harvested energy in the three modes is about 3.8 times the energy harvested in the heave mode alone; while the same device produces about 3.1 times the heave mode energy when using a linear 3-DOF model. 1. A multi-resonant multiple degree-of-freedom wave energy converter , comprising:a buoy in a water environment having a wave motion, wherein the waves impacting the buoy exert an excitation force with a plurality of excitation frequencies that causes a buoy motion in heave, surge, and pitch directions relative to a reference,a power take-off that is configured to apply control forces in the heave, surge, and pitch directions to the buoy and harvest mechanical energy of the buoy motion,a heave controller that causes the power take-off to apply a force to the buoy to put the buoy heave motion in resonance with the wave excitation force in the heave direction,a predictor that is configured to predict the excitation force of the wave impacting the buoy in the surge and pitch directions in a future time horizon, wherein the control forces in the surge and pitch directions are optimized using a model predictive control method to resonant the surge and pitch motions with the predicted excitation force and wherein the velocity of the pitch motion is selected to maximize parametric excitation of the surge-pitch motion.2. The wave energy converter of claim 1 , ...

NEGATIVE-PRESSURE WAVE GENERATOR

A negative-pressure wave generator has a flow-driven assembly and a power-generating assembly disposed in the sea. The flow-driven assembly has multiple Venturi tubes connected to a power generating culvert of the power-generating assembly. The power generating culvert has a generator assembly. When sea water passes, the Venturi tubes generate negative pressure to make the water flow into the flow-driven assembly from the power generating culvert. A large pressure difference is formed between outside sea water out of a turbine disposed in a front end and a chamber disposed in a rear end, and the pressure difference drives the turbine to drive the generator assembly. The transferring efficiency is high and the water in all the flow channels is in low pressure to prevent the water pipes from burst and leakage. The negative-pressure wave generator is simple in structure and solid, lowering the maintenance cost. 1. A negative-pressure wave generator comprising: an inlet main tube;', a top opening disposed in a top end of the Venturi tube;', 'a bottom opening disposed in a bottom end of the Venturi tube; and', 'a throat formed between the top opening and the bottom opening, and being smaller than the top opening and the bottom opening in inner diameter; and, 'at least one Venturi tube disposed vertically, each one of the at least one Venturi tube being a hollow tube, and having'}, 'at least one inlet branch tube connected between and communicating with the inlet main tube and the throat of the at least one Venturi tube;, 'a negative pressure mechanism having'}, 'a flow-driven assembly having'} 'a frame connected between the negative pressure mechanism and the float; and', 'a float having buoyancy and capable of controlling a magnitude of the buoyancy; and'} at least one water pipe connected to the inlet main tube;', a chamber formed inside of the casing;', 'at least one through hole formed through a bottom of the casing; an end of the at least one water pipe mounted ...

Multi-resonant feedback control of a single degree-of-freedom wave energy converter

A multi-resonant wide band controller decomposes the wave energy converter control problem into sub-problems; an independent single-frequency controller is used for each sub-problem. Thus, each sub-problem controller can be optimized independently. The feedback control enables actual time-domain realization of multi-frequency complex conjugate control. The feedback strategy requires only measurements of the buoy position and velocity. No knowledge of excitation force, wave measurements, nor wave prediction is needed. As an example, the feedback signal processing can be carried out using Fast Fourier Transform with Hanning windows and optimization of amplitudes and phases. Given that the output signal is decomposed into individual frequencies, the implementation of the control is very simple, yet generates energy similar to the complex conjugate control. 1. A multi-resonant single degree-of-freedom wave energy converter , comprising:a buoy in a water environment having wave motion, wherein the waves impacting the buoy exert an excitation force with a plurality of excitation frequencies that causes a buoy motion in a heave direction relative to a reference,a sensor for measuring a position or velocity of the buoy relative to the reference for a sample period,a power take-off that is configured to apply a control force in the heave direction to the buoy and harvest the energy of the buoy motion, anda feedback controller that uses a signal processor to extracts a plurality of frequencies, amplitudes, and phases of the measured position or velocity of the buoy, computes a proportional-derivative control for each of the plurality of extracted frequencies, amplitudes, and phases, adds up each of the proportional-derivative controls to provide a computed control force, and causes the power take-off to apply the computed control force to the buoy to put the buoy heave motion in resonance with the excitation force.2. The wave energy converter of claim 1 , wherein the signal ...

Multi-resonant feedback control of multiple degree-of-freedom wave energy converters

Multi-resonant control of a 3 degree-of-freedom (heave-pitch-surge) wave energy converter enables energy capture that can be in the order of three times the energy capture of a heave-only wave energy converter. The invention uses a time domain feedback control strategy that is optimal based on the criteria of complex conjugate control. The multi-resonant control can also be used to shift the harvested energy from one of the coupled modes to another, enabling the elimination of one of the actuators otherwise required in a 3 degree-of-freedom wave energy converter. This feedback control strategy does not require wave prediction; it only requires the measurement of the buoy position and velocity.

DEVICE FOR GENERATING HYDRO-ELECTRIC ENERGY

Device for generating energy making use of the current of a river (), with a self-floating paddlewheel () and an electric generator set () that is coupled to the paddlewheel (), whereby the device () is provided with an immersed housing () with an open bottom () in which the paddlewheel () is rotatably affixed and whereby there is a unit () to control the flow of the river () at the level of the paddlewheel (), whereby the speed of the generator set () is kept constant by controlling the water level () in the housing () by placing its internal space () under pressure and/or by controlling the aforementioned unit (). 121317201413133452793131516411024313179310a. Device for generating hydroelectric energy making use of the current of a river () , estuary or similar , whereby this device comprises a self-floating paddlewheel () that can freely turn in two directions around an axis X-X′ , and comprises at least one electric generator set () whose driveshaft () is coupled to the shaft () of the paddlewheel () in a way to transmit torque , wherein the device () is provided with an entirely or at least partially immersed housing () in the form of a bell () with an open bottom () that is at a height (A) above the bed () of the river () , estuary or similar , whose internal space () is placed under pressure to control the height (B) of the water level () in the bell () , and in which the paddlewheel () is rotatably affixed by means of bearings () or similar with paddles () that protrude below the open bottom () , and that the device () is provided with means () to control the flow of the river () , estuary or similar under the open bottom () of the bell () at the level of the paddlewheel () , whereby the speed of the at least one electric generator set () is kept constant by controlling the height (B) of the water level () in the bell () and/or by controlling the aforementioned means ().21710243139315. Device according to claim 1 , wherein to keep the speed of the at least ...

Hydropower plant for controlling grid frequency and method of operating same

A hydropower plant for regulating the frequency of an electric grid has an upper water reservoir; a lower water reservoir; a waterway that connects the upper water reservoir with the lower water reservoir. A turbine that is arranged in the waterway includes a runner, a guide vane apparatus and a device for blowing out the runner space. An electric synchronous machine is mechanically connected to the turbine and a frequency converter is electrically connected to the synchronous machine. A mains transformer is electrically connected to the frequency converter and the mains grid. A resistor is connected in a DC intermediate circuit of the frequency converter in such a way that it may connect the line sections of the DC intermediate circuit to one another. The assembly also includes a device for cooling the resistor.

MODULAR PLATFORM FOR OFFSHORE CONSTRUCTIONS WITH A STABILIZED STRUCTURE AND THE RECOVERY OF WATER WAVE ENERGY

The modular platform for offshore constructions, composed of more than two separate buoyancy elements partially immersed in water, which move along with the water wave movement and which, in the part above the water level, are connected to the structural elements forming a rigid horizontal spatial structure, characterized in that the buoyancy element () is given the shape of a cuboid or cylinder having at least one vertical hollow () to accommodate the structural element, i.e. piston (), which forms the axis along which the buoyancy element () moves, and which is connected to the horizontal structural element () fitted to take external loads. 1112314. The modular platform for offshore constructions , composed of more than two separate buoyancy elements () partially immersed in water , which move along with the water wave movement and which , in the part above the water level , are connected to the structural elements forming a rigid horizontal spatial structure , characterized in that the buoyancy element () is given the shape of a cuboid or cylinder having at least one vertical hollow () to accommodate the structural element , i.e. piston () , which forms the axis along which the buoyancy element () moves , and which is connected to the horizontal structural element () fitted to take external loads.221272. Modular platform according to claim 1 , characterized in that in the bottom part of the vertical hollow () of the buoyancy element () water gets inside the hollow () through a one-way valve () in a one-way and free flow claim 1 , and the top part of the vertical hollow is used to anchor the structural element claim 1 , i.e. piston () claim 1 , which is an element of the floating structure.335216. Modular platform according to claim 1 , characterized in that the structural element (piston) () is fitted with at least one hollow () for the transport of compressed water between the vertical chamber () of the buoyancy element () and the water receiving element i.e. ...

RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION BASED ON WATER WAVES

Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for wave power generation. In one aspect, a wave power generator device includes a stator assembly and a rotor assembly encased within a tube frame. The stator assembly includes an array of inductor coils in a fixed position within a cavity of the tube frame and a plurality of bearings coupled to the tube frame. The rotor assembly includes a turbine rotor having a central hub and peripheral blades coupled to a high inertia annular flywheel that is moveably engaged with the bearings of the stator assembly, and an array of magnets arranged to be evenly spaced and of alternating axial polarity from one another extending from the annular flywheel into the cavity between the array of inductor coils, such that electric currents are produced based on magnetic field interaction of the magnets with the inductor coils during the rotation of the annular flywheel. 137.-. (canceled)38. A method for generating electricity from water wave energy , comprising:receiving, based on a water wave, an airflow associated with the water wave into an interior of a wave power generator device to affect rotation of a rotator rotor assembly in the wave power generator device, the wave power generator device comprising a stator assembly and the rotor assembly, the stator assembly including an array of inductor coils coupled to a base frame, and the rotor assembly including (i) an annular flywheel comprising array of magnets and (ii) a turbine rotor having a central hub and peripheral blades coupled to the annular flywheel, such that the rotor assembly is operably engaged with the stator assembly by the array of magnets protruding outwardly from the annular flywheel to present between the array of inductor coils; andgenerating electrical power at the wave power generator device based on rotation of the annular flywheel at least initially caused by the received airflow into and out of the rotor assembly to initiate rotation of the turbine rotor in one ...

Tidal Stream Generator

A generating apparatus for generating electrical power from a horizontal water flow comprises a fixed hub on a support structure and a power wheel arranged for rotation about a vertical axis about the hub. The power wheel includes rotor vanes adapted to cause rotation of the power wheel when the power wheel is subject to a substantially horizontal water flow. One or more generators are provided on the hub to produce electrical power output from rotation of the power wheel relative to the hub. A shroud is rotationally mounted on the hub and arranged to cover at least some of the rotor vanes of the power wheel, so that the water flow is concentrated on the rotor vanes on one side only of the power wheel. A directional controller holds the shroud in a predetermined rotational position relative to the hub dependent on the direction of the water flow. 1. A generating apparatus for converting kinetic energy from a substantially horizontal water flow to electrical energy , the apparatus comprising:a rotationally fixed hub;a power wheel arranged for rotation about a substantially vertical axis about the hub and provided with rotor vanes adapted to cause rotation of the power wheel when the power wheel is subject to a substantially horizontal water flow;a shroud rotationally mounted on the hub and arranged to cover at least some of the rotor vanes of the power wheel;a directional controller adapted to hold the shroud in a predetermined rotational position relative to the hub dependent on the direction of the substantially horizontal water flow; andat least one generator provided on the hub and adapted to produce electrical power output derived from rotation of the power wheel relative to the hub.2. A generating apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the power wheel and the shroud each have controlled buoyancy.3. A generating apparatus according to or claim 1 , wherein the shroud extends over at least 180° and substantially covers at least half of the rotor vanes of the ...

UNDERWATER DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING POSTURE OF UNDERWATER DEVICE

This underwater device is twin-motor underwater floating-type power generation device that is provided with: a device main body that is equipped with a pair of pods that have a turbine, and with a connecting beam that connects these pods together in parallel with each other; a sinker; and tether cables that tether the device main body to the seabed via this sinker. The respective turbines of the pods are each provided with variable pitch turbine blades. This device is also provided with a depth meter that detects deviation in posture in the roll direction that is generated in the pair of pods, and a posture controller that controls the pitch of the variable pitch turbine blades of the respective turbines so as to nullify any deviation in posture in the roll direction that has been generated in the pair of pods and has been detected by the depth meter. 1. An underwater device comprising:a plurality of turbines that rotate underwater; anda posture controller that controls posture in a roll direction by controlling rotations of the plurality of turbines, whereinthe posture controller controls the posture in a roll direction by controlling the torque that is generated in each one of the plurality of turbines in accordance with the rotations of the plurality of turbines.2. The underwater device according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of turbines are each provided with variable pitch turbine blades claim 1 , and the posture controller controls the torque that is generated in each one of the plurality of turbines by controlling the pitch of the variable pitch turbine blades.3. The underwater device according to claim 1 , whereinthe underwater device is an underwater tethered-type ocean current power generation device that is provided with a plurality of power generation units which have the plurality of turbines that are rotated by sea currents, and which generate power using the rotation of the plurality of turbines, andeach turbine in the plurality of power ...

CONTROL APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR VARIABLE RENEWABLE ENERGY

Three variable gear assemblies called Transgears, an electro-mechanical rotary frequency converter, and a variable torque and power generator (VT&PG) referred to herein as a variable overlap generator (VOG), may be used independently and together to provide constant frequency and voltage output power and to increase the amount of output power generated with the same input water flow, wind speed, or solar energy. Two sets of three variable spur/helical gear assemblies of sun and planetary gear sets are combined in a mechanical three variable control to form an assembly called a Hummingbird. A Hummingbird control may comprise a constant speed control motor and a constant speed generator to produce required constant frequency and voltage and be reduced in part count and complexity. In order to provide a constant control input, a constant DC voltage can be produced and a DC motor and, for example, a brush-less and commutator-less direct current generator can be used. Once a constant speed is produced, a constant frequency can be produced by a rotary frequency converter. A VOG may be used as a low torque generator and a high power-rated generator in these applications and may generate more electric power than a conventional fixed power generator (the rotor axially aligned to overlap the stator in a conventional manner) over a wider input range of renewable energy. 1. A control assembly for controlling variable rotational speed input such that an output of the control assembly provides a more constant speed output than the variable rotational speed input , the control assembly comprising:an input shaft from an energy harnessing module, the input shaft for receiving a variable rotational speed input from the energy harnessing module,the input shaft having a central sun gear meshing with a planetary gear having a width greater than that of the input shaft sun gear,a carrier assembly including the planetary gear and first and second opposite planetary gears,a first sun gear/ ...

Buoyancy-driven Kinetic Energy Generating Apparatus and Method for Generating Kinetic Energy by Using the Same

A buoyancy-driven kinetic energy generating apparatus includes a base having a tank. A rotor includes a rotor body rotatably received in the tank. At least one float telescopes relative to the rotor body to a rotating axis of the rotor body while the rotor body rotates. A telescopic movement control module is mounted in the tank and controls the telescopic movement of the at least one float. A method generates kinetic energy by using the buoyancy-driven kinetic energy generating apparatus. The method includes filling a liquid into the tank to provide the rotor body with a pre-buoyancy and controlling the at least one float to telescope relative to the rotor body, causing a change in local buoyancy of the rotor body to imbalance the rotor body and to cause rotation of the rotor body about the rotating axis. 1. A buoyancy-driven kinetic energy generating apparatus comprising:a base including a tank;a rotor including a rotor body and a shaft portion, with the shaft portion coupled to the rotor body and the tank, with the rotor body rotatably received in the tank about a rotating axis defined by the shaft portion;at least one float mounted to the rotor body, with the at least one float telescoping relative to the rotor body while the rotor body rotates about the rotating axis; anda telescopic movement control module mounted in the tank, with the telescopic movement control module controlling the at least one float to telescope relative to the rotor body while the rotor body rotates.2. The buoyancy-driven kinetic energy generating apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , with the tank adapted to receive a liquid claim 1 , with the rotor body having an interior claim 1 , and with the interior of the rotor body being hollow and adapted to receive a mass having a density smaller than a density of the liquid to create buoyancy to float the rotor body on the liquid in the tank.3. The buoyancy-driven kinetic energy generating apparatus as claimed in claim 1 , with the tank adapted to ...

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR GENERATING POWER USING BUOYANCY

A power generator may generate power using buoyancy having a fluid column contained by a tank having a sealable drain and a piston having a substantially hollow interior capable of being filled with a fluid. The piston has a sealable outlet, a vent, an inlet, and a lateral cross-section that is smaller than a lateral cross-section of the tank. A rod is connected to the piston and a power generator is connected to the rod. The piston operates from a first position near the top of the fluid column to a second position near the bottom of the fluid column. The piston moves from the first position to the second position as fluid is added to the inlet. The piston moves from the second position to the first position as the fluid is drained from the outlet. 1. A device for generating power using buoyancy comprising:a. a fluid column;b. a piston, residing inside the fluid column, having a substantially hollow interior capable of being filled with a fluid;c. a rod connected to the piston and extending above the fluid column;d. a power generator connected to the rod;e. wherein, the piston operates from a first position near the top of the fluid column to a second position near the bottom of the fluid column;f. wherein the piston moves from the first position to the second position as fluid is added to an inlet of the piston, and wherein the piston moves from the second position to the first position as a sealable outlet is actuated from a closed position to an open position; andg. wherein the piston further comprises a plurality of voids, extending from the bottom of the piston to the top piston, and having an open top and bottom for permitting fluid to flow.2. The device for generating power using buoyancy of wherein the piston further comprises ballast that is denser than the fluid.3. The device for generating power using buoyancy of wherein the power generator comprises a hydraulic cylinder connected to the rod claim 1 , a hydraulic accumulator connected to the hydraulic ...

CONTROL OR PROCESSING SYSTEM AND METHOD

A method and associated apparatus for determining at least one parameter of an energy conversion device, the method comprising determining one or more losses associated with the energy conversion device; determining at least one parameter of the energy conversion device by improving, varying, optimising or maximising at least one operational variable and/or output of the energy conversion device (such as a power output of the energy conversion device) by reducing, minimising or optimising the one or more losses or a function thereof; and determining a value, range or function of at least one parameter of the energy conversion device (such as a power or torque curve) associated with, or that results in, the improvement, variation, optimisation or maximisation of the at least one operational variable (e.g. power output) and/or output of the energy conversion device and/or that results in the reduction, minimisation or optimisation of the one or more losses. 1. A method for determining at least one parameter of an energy conversion device , the method comprising:determining one or more losses associated with the energy conversion device;determining at least one parameter of the energy conversion device by improving, varying, optimising or maximising at least one operational variable and/or output of the energy conversion device (such as a power output of the energy conversion device) by reducing, minimising or optimising the one or more losses or a function thereof; anddetermining a value, range or function of at least one parameter of the energy conversion device (such as a power or torque curve) associated with, or that results in, the improvement, variation, optimisation or maximisation of the at least one operational variable (e.g. power output) and/or output of the energy conversion device and/or that results in the reduction, minimisation or optimisation of the one or more losses.2. The method of comprising controlling operation of the energy conversion device ...

MOBILE ELECTRIC POWER GENERA TING AND CONDITIONING SYSTEM

A mobile power conditioning system that does not require a battery comprises an energy-capturing assembly and a power conditioner. The energy-capturing assembly converts captured energy into an electric-power input. The power conditioner comprises an input terminal, a primary-output terminal, a controller and a secondary output terminal. The power conditioner receives the electrical power input and delivers a conditioned electrical power output. The primary-output terminal is configured to receive and transfer part or all of the conditioner output to a primary load. The controller regulates the transfer of an un-transferred portion of the conditioner output to the secondary output terminal so that an aggregated draw from the first output terminal and the second output terminal is less than or equal to the conditioner output. The secondary output terminal is configured to transfer the un-transferred portion of the electrical power input to a secondary load. 1. A mobile power-conditioning system comprising:a. an energy-capturing assembly for capturing energy from an energy source and converting the captured energy into an electric-power input; i. an input terminal for receiving the electric-power input from the energy capturing assembly;', 'ii. a primary output terminal that is configured to receive and transfer at least a portion of the conditioned electrical power output to a primary load;', 'iii. a secondary output terminal that is configured to receive an un-transferred portion of the conditioned electrical power output and for transferring the untransferred portion to a secondary load; and', 'iv. a controller that is configured to regulate a transfer of the un-transferred portion of the conditioned electrical power output to the secondary output terminal so that an aggregated draw from both the primary output terminal and the second output terminal is less than or equal to the conditioned electrical power output., 'b. a power conditioner that is electrically ...

Harnessing Flowing Fluids to Create Torque

An apparatus and method for producing high output and low cost/time, sustainable energy (e.g., wind or water) via natural currents that is environmentally friendly and includes a gravity-assisted equalizing control system is provided. Wings with a large surface area can be included in the design, as well as an optional counterbalance system that synchronizes the wings' position and speed with a mechanical leverage point on the body of the device. When a fluid flows past wings of the device, the fluid flow induces motion in the wings, which causes a shaft to move, creating torque at the generator. The outcome is a coordination of harmonizing the wings pitch angle to the natural frequency of a fluids specific velocity. The device can adapt itself to the velocity of the surrounding fluid through a rotational sweeping control system that produces a more streamlined profile to maximize reliability. 141-. (canceled)42. An apparatus for generating a torque from a moving fluid , the apparatus comprising:a shaft oriented along a shaft axis;a wing coupled to the shaft, wherein the wing is oriented along a wing axis that is substantially perpendicular to the shaft axis, wherein the wing is rotatable about the shaft from a first shaft axis position to a second shaft axis position, wherein the wing is rotatable about the wing axis from a first wing axis position to a second wing axis position such that the wing presents a first angle of attack when in the first wing axis position and a second angle of attack when in the second wing axis position;a pendulum pivotable about a pendulum axis from a first pendulum position to a second pendulum position, wherein the pendulum is mechanically coupled to the wing such that when the pendulum transitions from the first pendulum position to the second pendulum position, the wing correspondingly transitions from the first wing axis position to the second wing axis position.43. The apparatus of claim 42 , wherein the pendulum axis is ...

METHOD OF CONTROLLING A WAVE ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM MAXIMIZING THE POWER OUTPUT

The invention is an improved wave energy conversion system () including a model predictive control method for an energy conversion machine () that maximizes the power output by accounting for the energy conversion efficiency and a wave motion prediction (). 114-. (canceled)15. A method of controlling a wave energy conversion system that converts energy of waves into electrical or hydraulic energy , the wave energy conversion system comprising at least one mobile system that cooperates with at least one wave energy conversion machine , and the mobile system having an oscillating motion with respect to the at least one wave energy conversion machine , comprising:a) constructing a dynamic model of the wave energy conversion system relating velocity of the at least one mobile system to a force exerted by the waves on the at least one mobile system and to force exerted by the at least one wave energy conversion machine on the mobile system;b) constructing an energy model of the wave energy conversion system relating an average power generated by the at least one wave energy conversion machine to the force exerted by the at least one wave energy conversion machine on the at least one mobile system, to a velocity of the mobile system and to efficiency of the at least one wave energy conversion system;{'b': '3', 'c) predicting the force exerted by waves () on the mobile system for a predetermined time period;'}d) determining a control value of the force exerted by the at least one wave energy conversion machine on the at least one mobile system which maximizes average power generated by the at least one wave energy conversion machine, by use of the predicted force exerted by the waves on the at least one mobile system, of the dynamic model and of the energy model; ande) controlling the at least one wave energy conversion machine with the control value.16. A method as claimed in claim 15 , wherein the force exerted by the waves on the at least one mobile system is predicted ...

RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION BASED ON WATER WAVES

Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for wave power generation. In one aspect, a wave power generator device includes a stator assembly and a rotor assembly encased within a tube frame. The stator assembly includes an array of inductor coils in a fixed position within a cavity of the tube frame and a plurality of bearings coupled to the tube frame. The rotor assembly includes a turbine rotor having a central hub and peripheral blades coupled to a high inertia annular flywheel that is moveably engaged with the bearings of the stator assembly, and an array of magnets arranged to be evenly spaced and of alternating axial polarity from one another extending from the annular flywheel into the cavity between the array of inductor coils, such that electric currents are produced based on magnetic field interaction of the magnets with the inductor coils during the rotation of the annular flywheel. 141.-. (canceled)42. A wave power generator device for converting water wave power into electricity , comprising:a frame including an open interior and a support base on each end of the frame, the frame operable to interface with and to receive an airflow caused by a water wave; an array of inductor coils fixed in position with respect to the support base, and', 'an array of bearings arranged along the support base, the bearings operable to roll to allow a surface in contact with the bearings to move with respect to the stator assembly; and, 'a stator assembly encased in the frame, including a flywheel having a hollow interior and an outer wall to provide the flywheel with a high inertia,', 'a turbine rotor attached to the flywheel at a particular plane along the hollow interior, wherein the turbine rotor includes a disk and a plurality of blades protruding from the disk and wherein the rotor assembly does not include a rotary shaft in the center of the disk, and', 'an array of magnets arranged on the outer wall of the flywheel to be of alternating axial polarity from one ...

Hydroelectric power plant having an electrical drive for actuating the inlet valve

A hydroelectric power plant includes an upper water basin, a lower water basin, a waterway connecting the upper water basin to the lower water basin, a hydraulic machine disposed in the waterway, an inlet valve disposed in a pressure pipeline, and an electric drive for actuating the inlet device. The electric drive is configured in such a way that it ensures reliable closing of the inlet valve even in the event of a power failure, without an emergency power supply being provided therefor.

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR WAVE ENERGY CONVERSION

A wave energy conversion cylinder includes an outer cylinder and a center rod disposed along an axis of the outer cylinder. A plurality of electrically-conductive windings are disposed about an inner circumference of the outer cylinder. A magnet is slidably disposed on the center rod. A buoyancy cylinder is disposed outwardly of the outer cylinder. A first moveable ring weight may be slidably disposed along the axis of the center rod and a second moveable ring weight may be slidably disposed along the axis of the center rod. The first moveable ring weight and the second moveable ring weight facilitate control to tune a mass moment of inertia of the wave energy conversion cylinder. 1. A wave energy conversion cylinder comprising:an outer cylinder;a center rod disposed along an axis of the outer cylinder;a plurality of electrically-conductive windings disposed about an inner circumference of the outer cylinder;a magnet slidably disposed on the center rod; anda buoyancy shell disposed outwardly of the outer cylinder.2. The wave energy conversion cylinder of claim 1 , comprising:a first moveable ring weight slidably disposed along the axis of the center rod; anda second moveable ring weight slidably disposed along the axis of the center rod.3. The wave energy conversion cylinder of claim 1 , wherein movement of the magnet along the center rod induces an electrical current in the plurality of electrically-conductive windings.4. The wave energy conversion cylinder of claim 1 , comprising a bracket slidably disposed on the center rod.5. The wave energy conversion cylinder of claim 4 , comprising a plurality of bearing devices that facilitate movement of the bracket.6. The wave energy conversion cylinder of claim 5 , wherein the plurality of bearing devices are ball rollers.7. The wave energy conversion cylinder of claim 4 , wherein the magnet is coupled outwardly of the bracket.8. The wave energy conversion cylinder of claim 1 , comprising an absorber block disposed at an ...

POWER TAKE-OFF FOR A WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER

A wave energy converter incorporates a floating body and a reaction body engaging the floating body wherein the reaction body is static or oscillating out of phase relative to the floating body. A power take-off (PTO) has at least one direct drive linear generator, a high level controller responsive to sensors engaged to the direct drive linear generator and providing a PTO force change command (dF) and a low level controller receiving the PTO force change command and providing control signals to power electronics connected to the direct drive linear generator. The direct drive linear generator is operable responsive to the control signals to achieve optimal power extraction performance with high force at low speed with operation in two physical directions and operating as both a motor and a generator for a total of four quadrants of control. 1. A wave energy converter comprising:a floating body;a reaction body engaging the floating body, said reaction body static or oscillating out of phase relative to the floating body; at least one direct drive linear generator;', {'sub': 'To', 'a high level controller responsive to sensors engaged to the direct drive linear generator and providing a PTO force change command (dFp);'}, 'a low level controller receiving the PTO force change command and providing control signals to power electronics connected to the direct drive linear generator, said direct drive linear generator operable responsive to the control signals to achieve optimal power extraction performance with high force at low speed with operation in two physical directions and operating as both a motor and a generator for a total of four quadrants of control., 'a power take-off (PTO) having'}2. The wave energy converter as defined in wherein the at least one direct drive linear generator comprises:a plurality of stators linked in series having lateral edges flush with one-another creating a single electric machine; and,a translator having a plurality of magnetic ...

Method for Starting a Hydroelectric Turbine

The invention concerns a method for starting a hydroelectric turbine () provided with a runner () mechanically coupled to a shaft line (), a distributor () comprising leak tight guide vanes to control a flow of water to said runner, a spiral case () for supplying water to said runner, said spiral case comprising a duct connected to a main inlet valve (), the method comprising: 1. Method for starting a hydroelectric turbine provided with a runner mechanically coupled to a shaft line , a distributor comprising leak-tight guide vanes to control a flow of water to said runner , a spiral case for supplying water to said runner , said spiral case comprising a duct connected to a main inlet valve , the method comprising:a) a step of balancing pressures on both sides of said main inlet valve, and of at least partially opening said main inlet valve, while the leak-tight guide vanes of the distributor are closed, water pressurized at an upstream level being present in said spiral case and at said distributor;b) then a step of opening the leak-tight guide vanes of the distributor.2. Method according to claim 1 , wherein said step a) comprises fully opening said main inlet valve.3. Method according to claim 1 , wherein said main inlet valve comprises a spherical valve or a butterfly valve.4. Method according to claim 1 , wherein said water present in said spiral case and at said distributor during step a) is pressurized at least 2 bars claim 1 , preferably at least 5 bars claim 1 , preferably at least 10 bars claim 1 , and more preferably at least 30 bars.5. Method according to claim 1 , wherein said hydroelectric turbine is connected to one claim 1 , preferably two claim 1 , reservoirs of water.6. Method according to claim 1 , wherein said hydroelectric turbine is connected to a grid claim 1 , the duration between end of step b) and grid synchronization being less than 30 s.7. Method according to claim 1 , comprising a standstill mode before step b) claim 1 , wherein said ...

METHOD FOR OPERATING AN ENERGY INSTALLATION, AND AN ENERGY SYSTEM HAVING SUCH ENERGY INSTALLATIONS

A method is disclosed for operating an energy installation having a wind turbine or water turbine connected to a generator, a converter unit connected on the generator side to the generator, and an auxiliary energy unit for providing electrical energy to cover an intrinsic energy demand of the energy installation. The converter unit is connected to an electric power grid and feeds electrical energy generated by the generator into the electric power grid via the converter unit. The auxiliary energy unit is connected to the electric power grid for drawing electrical energy. In the event of a separation of the converter unit and of the auxiliary energy unit from the electric power grid, the auxiliary energy unit draws electrical energy from an energy storage unit for an adjustable period of time, and the auxiliary energy unit then draws electrical energy generated by the generator via the converter unit. 1. A method for operating an energy installation , the energy installation having a wind turbine or water turbine connected to a generator , a converter unit connected on a generator side to the generator , and an auxiliary energy unit to provide electrical energy to cover an intrinsic energy demand of the energy installation , the converter unit being connected on a grid side to an electric power grid to feed electrical energy generated by the generator into the electric power grid via the converter unit , and the auxiliary energy unit being connected to the electric power grid for drawing electrical energy , the method comprising:drawing electrical energy from an energy storage unit via the auxiliary energy unit in an event of a separation of the converter unit and of the auxiliary energy unit from the electric power grid;in an event of the separation of the converter unit and of the auxiliary energy unit from the electric power grid, drawing electrical energy from the energy storage unit for an adjustable period of time to the auxiliary energy unit, and then drawing ...

HYDROELECTRIC GEAR PUMP WITH VARYING HELIX ANGLES OF GEAR TEETH

A gear pump for power generation comprises a first rotor and a second rotor in a case. The first rotor comprises a first plurality of radially spaced teeth, wherein the first plurality of radially spaced teeth wrap around the first rotor helically in a clockwise direction, and wherein at a first position the first plurality of radially spaced teeth have a helix angle different than the helix angle of the first plurality of radially spaced teeth at a second position. The second rotor comprises a second plurality of radially spaced teeth, wherein the second plurality of radially spaced teeth wrap around the second rotor helically in a counter-clockwise direction, and wherein at a first position the second plurality of radially spaced teeth have a helix angle different than the helix angle of the second plurality of radially spaced teeth at a second position. 1. A gear pump unit for hydroelectric power generation , comprising: a case comprising a fluid inlet and an outlet;', a rear portion;', 'an axis;', 'a first position located along the axis;', 'a second position located along the axis at a location between the first position and the rear portion;', 'a first plurality of radially spaced teeth, wherein the first plurality of radially spaced teeth wrap around the first rotor helically in a clockwise direction, and wherein at the first position the first plurality of radially spaced teeth have a helix angle different than the helix angle of the first plurality of radially spaced teeth at the second position;', 'a second rotor in the case, the second rotor comprising:', 'a rear portion;', 'an axis;', 'a first position located along the axis;', 'a second position located along the axis at a location between the first position and the rear portion;', 'a second plurality of radially spaced teeth, wherein the second plurality of radially spaced teeth wrap around the second rotor helically in a counter-clockwise direction, and wherein at the first position the second ...

Mass Activated Generator

A mass activated generator to generate torque, including a power drop device to receive liquid to drive a continuous loop device to generate the torque; a mass activated pump to receive the liquid from the continuous loop device and to pump the liquid to the continuous loop device. The continuous loop device includes a pair of torque shafts to drive an electric generator and a plurality of power drop containers connected to the torque shafts to receive the liquid and to transfer the liquid to the mass activated pump.

RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION BASED ON WATER WAVES

Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for wave power generation. In one aspect, a wave power generator device includes a stator assembly and a rotor assembly encased within a tube frame. The stator assembly includes an array of inductor coils in a fixed position within a cavity of the tube frame and a plurality of bearings coupled to the tube frame. The rotor assembly includes a turbine rotor having a central hub and peripheral blades coupled to a high inertia annular flywheel that is moveably engaged with the bearings of the stator assembly, and an array of magnets arranged to be evenly spaced and of alternating axial polarity from one another extending from the annular flywheel into the cavity between the array of inductor coils, such that electric currents are produced based on magnetic field interaction of the magnets with the inductor coils during the rotation of the annular flywheel. 141.-. (canceled)42. A wave power generator device , comprising:a frame including a support base and an opening to an interior of the frame, the frame operable to receive an airflow through the opening;a stator assembly including an array of inductor coils fixed in position with respect to the support base, and a plurality of bearings operable to roll to allow an object in contact to move with respect to the array of inductor coils; anda rotor assembly including a flywheel having a hollow interior and an outer wall to provide the flywheel with a high inertia, a turbine rotor attached to the flywheel and including a disk and a plurality of blades protruding from the disk, and an array of magnets arranged on the outer wall of the flywheel to be of alternating axial polarity from one another such that the magnets move with respect to the inductor coils as the flywheel rotates with respect to the stator assembly, such that the relative motion between the magnets and the inductor coils causes generation of electric currents in the inductor coils, wherein the rotor assembly does ...

APPARATUS FOR GENERATING ELECTRICITY USING WATER MOVEMENT

Apparatus () for generating electricity using water movement, which apparatus () comprises: (i) at least one electrical generator () which is for generating the electricity and which comprises a housing (), a rotor () and a stator (); (ii) at least one control means () for use in the maintenance of the apparatus (), and the apparatus () being such that: (iii) the control means () is configured to enable the removal of at least a defective part () in the electrical generator (); (iv) the control means () is configured to enable the reception of a replacement part () for the defective part (); (v) the apparatus () includes transport means () for transporting the defective part () around the apparatus () such that the defective part () is able to be removed from the apparatus (), and for transporting the replacement part () around the apparatus () such that the replacement part () is able to be installed in place of the defective part (); and (vi) the defective part () and the replacement part () are parts whereby the defective part () is able to be removed by the control means (), the replacement part () is able to be installed by the control means (), and the removal and replacement are able to be effected without the need for divers even although the apparatus () in use is submerged at depth in the water. 2. Apparatus according to in which the control means includes rotator means for rotating the replacement part of the electrical generator when it is received in the apparatus claim 1 , whereby the replacement part is able to be lowered to the apparatus such that the thinnest cross sectional area of the replacement part is presented to the water movement and thereby generates a minimum drag through the water claim 1 , and whereby the replacement part is able to be rotated to a correct orientation in the apparatus for the connection to the apparatus.3. Apparatus according to in which the rotator means is a turntable which is vertically mounted so that it is parallel ...

METHOD OF ACTUATING OCEAN CURRENT ELECTRIC POWER GENERATOR AND ACTUATION CONTROL APPARATUS

An ocean current electric power generator includes a mechanical brake that restricts a rotation of a rotor shaft of a rotatable wing, and a power transmission mechanism that is disposed between the rotor shaft and an electric power generator. The power transmission mechanism includes a switching section that switches between a power transmission state and a power disconnection state, a load application section that applies a rotation load on the rotor shaft during the power disconnection state, and a speed varying section that varies a revolution speed of the rotor shaft, and transmits the revolution to the electric power generator during the power transmission state. 17.-. (canceled)8. A method of actuating an ocean current electric power generator under an ocean , wherein a rotor of an electric power generator enclosed in a nacelle is driven by a rotatable wing that protrudes outside the nacelle and has a fixed pitch angle , the ocean current electric power generator comprising:a mechanical brake that restricts a rotation of a rotor shaft of the rotatable wing; and a switching section that switches between a power transmission state and a power disconnection state;', 'a load application section that applies a rotation load on the rotor shaft of the rotatable wing during the power disconnection state; and', 'a speed varying section that varies a revolution speed of the rotor shaft of the rotatable wing, and transmits the revolution to the rotor of the electric power generator during the power transmission state,, 'a power transmission mechanism that is disposed between the rotor shaft of the rotatable wing and the rotor of the electric power generator, the power transmission mechanism comprising a brake releasing step of setting the power transmission mechanism to the power disconnection state by the switching section to switch the mechanical brake from an applied state to a released state;', 'a rotatable wing accelerating step of increasing the revolution speed of ...

OCEAN WAVE POWER GENERATOR WITH ARTIFICIALLY INTELLIGENT CONTROLLER

The ocean wave power generator with an artificially intelligent controller is a wave power generator based on a two-body mass-spring-damper system, including a first mass, a second mass, and a linear generator coupled to the second mass. A linear actuator is coupled to the second mass, and first and second motion sensors are positioned for detecting position and speed of the first and second masses. The maximum power output of the linear generator is determined based on the position and the speed of the first mass, and an ideal position and an ideal speed of the second mass, corresponding to the maximum power output of the linear generator and the position and the speed of the first mass, are determined. The position and the speed of the second mass are adjusted using a linear actuator to match the ideal position and the ideal speed of the second mass. 1. An ocean wave power generator with an artificially intelligent controller , comprising:a first mass;a second mass;a first spring resiliently coupling the first mass and the second mass;a first damper joining the first mass and the second mass for damping relative oscillation between the first mass and the second mass;a second spring resiliently coupling the second mass and a support surface;a second damper joining the second mass and the support surface for damping relative oscillation between the second mass and the support surface;a linear generator mounted on the support surface, the linear generator being coupled to the second mass, relative oscillation between the second mass and the support surface driving the linear generator to generate power;a linear actuator coupled to the second mass;a first motion sensor positioned for detecting position and speed of the first mass;a second motion sensor positioned for detecting position and speed of the second mass; anda controller connected to the first and second motion sensors for receiving the position and the speed of the first mass from the first motion sensor ...

YAW CONTROL-BY-RUDDER TYPE TIDAL STREAM POWER GENERATION APPARATUS AND YAW CONTROL METHOD OF THE SAME

A yaw control-by-rudder type tidal stream power generation apparatus includes: a nacelle used in a tidal stream power generator that converts flowing energy of a tidal stream to generate electric power, and located in the tidal stream to be rotatable about a first rotating shaft; a rotor provided at one side of the nacelle with reference to the first rotating shaft, and configured to be rotated by the flowing energy of the tidal stream; a rudder unit provided at the other side of the nacelle with reference to the first rotating shaft, and including a rudder fixed to the nacelle and a variable rudder rotatably connected to the nacelle; and a control unit configured to control the rotation of the variable rudder. When the flow direction of the tidal stream is changed, the rotation of the variable rudder is controlled by the control unit. 1. A yaw control-by-rudder type tidal stream power generation apparatus comprising:a nacelle used in a tidal stream power generator that converts flowing energy of a tidal stream to generate electric power, and located in the tidal stream to be rotatable about a first rotating shaft;a rotor provided at one side of the nacelle with reference to the first rotating shaft, and configured to be rotated by the flowing energy of the tidal stream;a rudder unit provided at the other side of the nacelle with reference to the first rotating shaft, and including a rudder fixed to the nacelle and a variable rudder rotatably connected to the nacelle; anda control unit configured to control the rotation of the variable rudder,wherein, when the flow direction of the tidal stream is changed, the rotation of the variable rudder is controlled by the control unit so that drag and lift are generated on the rudder unit to rotate the nacelle to the flow direction of the tidal stream.2. The yaw control-by-rudder type tidal stream power generation apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the variable rudder is connected to the nacelle to be rotatable about a second ...

Renewable energy generation based on water waves

Methods, systems, and devices are disclosed for wave power generation. In one aspect, a wave power generator device includes a stator assembly and a rotor assembly encased within a tube frame. The stator assembly includes an array of inductor coils in a fixed position within a cavity of the tube frame and a plurality of bearings coupled to the tube frame. The rotor assembly includes a turbine rotor having a central hub and peripheral blades coupled to a high inertia annular flywheel that is moveably engaged with the bearings of the stator assembly, and an array of magnets arranged to be evenly spaced and of alternating axial polarity from one another extending from the annular flywheel into the cavity between the array of inductor coils, such that electric currents are produced based on magnetic field interaction of the magnets with the inductor coils during the rotation of the annular flywheel.

METHOD FOR MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMAL OPERATIONS OF CASCADE HYDROPOWER PLANTS BASED ON RELATIVE TARGET PROXIMITY AND MARGINAL ANALYSIS PRICIPLE

The invention relates to the field of hydropower scheduling, and relates to a method for multi-objective optimal operations of cascade hydropower plants based on relative target proximity and marginal analysis principle. The invention constructs an optimization model with relative target proximity by introducing positive and negative ideal points of objectives so that a multi-objective optimization is efficiently handled. A strategy for processing complex operation constraints is proposed and coupled with genetic algorithm to solve the model. Thus, optimal solution sets under different weight coefficients of objectives can be determined. Following this, marginal benefit and marginal cost are introduced to represent a relationship between multiple objective values and corresponding weight coefficients. According to principle of profit maximization in economics, a marginal analysis of objective weight coefficient is finally made to determine benefit-dominant area, cost-dominant area and equilibrium area, and there by obtaining a basis of multi-objective decision-making. 1(1) set initial calculation conditions, including operation conditions and constraints of hydropower plants, as well as conditions for electric and hydraulic operation demands;{'sub': 1', '2', '1', '1', '2', '2, 'sup': min', 'max', 'min', 'max, 'claim-text': [{'sub': 1', '2', '1', '2, 'sup': min', 'min', 'max', 'max, 'step 1. obtain positive and negative ideal points: the positive ideal point is denoted as (F, F), and the negative ideal point is denoted as (F, F);'}, {'sub': 1', '2', '1', '2', '1', '2', '1', '1', '1', '1', '2', '2', '2', '2', '2', '2, 'sup': min', 'max', 'min', 'min', 'max', 'min, 'step 2. normalize object vector: objective function values of any a feasible solution are denoted as Fand F; objective vector of the solution is represented as (F, F); this objective vector is normalized as (g, g), where g=(F−F)/(F−F), g=(F−F)/(F−F); so the positive and negative ideal points are not ...

METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A ROTOR BLADE ADJUSTMENT DEVICE

Method for controlling a rotor blade adjustment device () of a wind turbine or water hydroelectric powerplant (), wherein the rotor blade adjustment device () has a drive () which is connected to a rotor blade () which is subjected to a flow of wind or water and has the purpose of rotating the rotor blade () about a rotor blade axis () relative to a rotor hub () on which the rotor blade () is mounted so as to be rotatable about the rotor blade axis (), and an electromagnetic brake () which is connected to the rotor blade () and has the purpose of blocking rotation of the rotor blade () about the rotor blade axis (), wherein the brake () is actuated in order to change its activation state at a brake activation time (t), wherein the drive () is actuated to change its driving state at a drive activation time (t) which has a predetermined chronological offset (Δt) with respect to the brake activation time (t), and wherein an electric current (I) which flows through the brake () is measured, the form of the resulting current/time curve is evaluated, and the chronological offset (Δt) is newly determined and/or adapted as a function of the result of this evaluation. 1141142088157815348815342034. Method for controlling a rotor blade adjustment device () of a wind turbine or water hydroelectric powerplant () , wherein the rotor blade adjustment device () comprises a drive () which is connected to a rotor blade () which is subjected to a flow of wind or water and has the purpose of rotating the rotor blade () about a rotor blade axis () relative to a rotor hub () on which the rotor blade () is mounted so as to be rotatable about the rotor blade axis () and an electromagnetic brake () which is connected to the rotor blade () and has the purpose of blocking rotation of the rotor blade () about the rotor blade axis () , wherein the brake () is actuated in order to change its activation state at a brake activation time (t) , and wherein the drive () is actuated to change its ...

Optimal Control of Wave Energy Converters

A wave energy converter and method for extracting energy from water waves maximizes the energy extraction per cycle by estimating an excitation force of heave wave motion on the buoy, computing a control force from the estimated excitation force using a dynamic model, and applying the computed control force to the buoy to extract energy from the heave wave motion. Analysis and numerical simulations demonstrate that the optimal control of a heave wave energy converter is, in general, in the form of a bang-singular-bang control; in which the optimal control at a given time can be either in the singular arc mode or in the bang-bang mode. The excitation force and its derivatives at the current time can be obtained through an estimator, for example, using measurements of pressures on the surface of the buoy in addition to measurements of the buoy position. A main advantage of this approximation method is the ease of obtaining accurate measurements for pressure on the buoy surface and for buoy position, compared to wave elevation measurements. 1. A method for extracting energy from water waves , comprising:providing a wave energy converter comprising a buoy in water having heave wave motion;estimating an excitation force of the heave wave motion on the buoy; constructing a Hamiltonian as a function of buoy states,', 'computing partial derivatives of the Hamiltonian with respect to the buoy states and the control force, and', 'computing the control force at which the partial derivatives vanish; and, 'computing a control force from the estimated excitation force using a dynamic model, wherein the model comprises'}applying the computed control force to the buoy to extract energy from the heave wave motion.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the Hamiltonian is a linear function of the control force and wherein the control force comprises a singular arc.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the buoy states comprise a heave position and a heave velocity of the buoy.4. The method of ...

BUOYANCY-DRIVEN POWER GENERATION APPARATUS USING GRAVITY BODY

The present invention relates to a buoyancy-driven power generation apparatus using a gravity body. To achieve this, according to the present invention, a rotary module is configured with at least one rotary body mounted on a rotary shaft, a latch provided between the rotary body and the rotary shaft such that the rotary body transmits power only in one direction, and a power transmission gear mounted on one end portion of the rotary shaft. A rope is mounted on the rotary body of the rotary module to make contact with the same to move up and down. A buoyant body hangs from one end portion of the rope, and a gravity body lighter in weight than the buoyant body hangs from the other end portion of the rope. A power gear is provided on one end portion of the rotary module so as to be engaged with the power transmission gear such that the rotating force of the power gear is transmitted to a generator. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively convert a movement of the surface of the sea into a vertical up and down motion of the buoyant body. 1. A buoyancy-driven power generation apparatus using a gravity body , the buoyancy-driven power generation apparatus comprising:{'b': 10', '12', '11', '12', '11', '12', '13', '11, 'a rotation module () comprising at least one rotational body () provided on a shaft (), a latch (L) arranged between the rotational body () and the shaft () to allow the rotational body () to transmit power only in one direction, and a power transmission gear () provided at one side end of the shaft ();'}{'b': 20', '12', '10, 'a rope () mounted on the rotational body () of the rotation module () in a contacting manner to move up and down;'}{'b': 30', '20, 'a buoyant body () provided at one side end of the rope ();'}{'b': 40', '20', '30, 'a gravity body () provided at an opposite side end of the rope () and having a weight less than a weight of the buoyant body (); and'}{'b': 50', '10', '13', '50', '60, 'a power gear () provided at one side end of the ...

CONVERTER SYSTEM AND WIND OR WATER POWER PLANT

A converter system with a rectifier () and at least two inverters () is described and depicted, wherein the rectifier () can be supplied with energy from an alternating current source (), the rectifier () is connected to each of the inverters () via a common direct voltage circuit () in order to supply energy to the inverters () and each inverter () can be connected to a respective electrical load () in order to supply energy to the respective electrical load (). According to the invention, a converter system that is especially reliable is realized in that a decoupling device () is arranged in at least one of the connections between the direct current circuit () and one of the inverters (), wherein the decoupling device () prevents electrical energy coming from the inverter () from being transmitted in the direction of the direct current circuit (). A wind or water power plant with a rotor is also described and presented, wherein the rotor comprises a rotor hub and at least two rotor blades and the rotor blades can be rotated about their respective longitudinal axes by electrical loads (). According to the invention, a wind or water power plant that is especially reliable is realized in that the wind or water power plant comprises a converter system according to one of the claims through wherein the converter system supplies the loads () with energy. 112-. (canceled)13. A wind or water power plant comprising:a rotor comprising a rotor hub and at least two rotor blades;each of the rotor blades orientated about a respective longitudinal axis;at least two electrical loads configured to rotate the respective rotor blades about their respective longitudinal axes;a converter system configured to supply energy to the loads;the converter system comprising a rectifier, an alternating current source and at least two inverters;the rectifier configured to be supplied with energy from the alternating current source and connected to each of the inverters via a common direct ...

Underwater floating-type ocean current power generation device

Provided is an underwater floating-type ocean current power generation device whereby cyclical directional vibration of a floating body of the ocean current power generation device, caused by shadow moment, can be suppressed. An underwater floating type ocean current power generation device includes ocean current power generation device main bodies, each including a rotor of a power generator housed in a nacelle, and a structure. The rotor is configured to be driven by a rotary blade protruding outward from the nacelle. A twin drum floating body capable of floating underwater is constituted by the structure and the ocean current power generation device main bodies joined to the left and right of the structure. The underwater floating type ocean current power generation device is moored to an ocean floor by a mooring rope.

CROSSFLOW AXES ROTARY MECHANICAL DEVICES WITH DYNAMIC INCREASED SWEPT AREA

Crossflow axes rotary mechanical devices with Dynamic Increased Swept Area including at least two rotors with equal arm sizes attached to a support structure parallel to each other, having their axes of rotation perpendicular to the fluid with a rotors offset 0<=Ro<2R, rotating relative to each other in synchrony by a rotors synchronizing mechanism, having at least one blade attached to each rotor via the radial arm where the blades of the opposite rotors do not collide during the rotation, are described. The rotors with arms and blades share their spaces, the fluid, the support structure, the rotors synchronizing mechanisms, the electric machines, the braking systems, the yawing systems, as well as the characteristics, parameters, effects and additional mechanisms that the crossflow axes rotary mechanical devices with Dynamic Increased Swept Area have compare to the crossflow axes rotary mechanical devices without Dynamic Increased Swept Area. 1. A crossflow axes rotary mechanical device with Dynamic Increased Swept Area comprising:at least two rotors with equal radial arm sizes attached to a support structure parallel to each other having their axes of rotation on a plane perpendicular to the fluid and a rotors offset 0<=Ro<2R, wherein the rotors rotate relative to each other in synchrony with the same TSR by at least one rotors synchronizing mechanism attached to the rotors, forming one module;{'sub': SBR', 'BR', 'B, "at least one blade attached to each rotor on the side between the rotors via the radial arm, wherein each of the blades of one rotor at the φ=0° rotating phase has an angle 0°<=B<180° with the closest blade from the opposite rotor on a plane parallel to the rotors, each of the blades has a space δ>=RFR between blade's tip and the opposite rotor-arm plane, each of the blades has a minimum space δ>=BNCS with the crossing blades from the opposite rotors;"}at least one electric machine attached to the support structure and connected to one of the rotors ...

Wave power generation system and method

A power generator comprises a casing ( 110 ) that in use is deployed in an environment in which the casing is subjected to an excitation motion such as wave motion. A series of masses ( 101, 103 a - c ) is located within the casing, wherein at least a first mass is coupled to the casing by a first spring ( 102 ), each of the masses is coupled to at least one adjacent mass by a respective spring, and wherein the casing and the series of masses bring a motion of the power generator into resonance with the excitation motion. A plurality of electric machines each comprising a stator and a field source are each associated with a corresponding mass such that a relative motion of a mass and associated electric machine generates electrical power. A power takeoff circuit receives generated electrical power from the plurality of electric machines and outputs electrical power from the power generator.

Dynamic Tuning of Wave Energy Converters Using Inertial Traps

A wave energy converter can be dynamically tuned to achieve resonance with ocean swell by varying the geometry of an attached submerged water-filled vessel (). 1. A means of dynamic tuning of a wave energy converter , comprising:a. a buoyant body that is arranged to oscillate under the influence of ocean swell;b. said body being rigidly attached to a submerged vessel;c. said vessel enclosing a volume that is arranged to be always full of water;d. said vessel having a geometry that can be dynamically varied, whereby said volume can be dynamically varied.2. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said vessel is always substantially streamlined in the direction of said oscillation.3. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said vessel comprises at least one elastic element.4. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said vessel comprises at least one flexing element.5. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said vessel comprises at least one sliding element.6. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said vessel comprises at least one pleated element.7. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said vessel is opened and closed using flex-frames.8. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said body is arranged to oscillate in the heaving vector.9. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said body is arranged to oscillate in the surging vector.10. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said body is arranged to oscillate in the pitching vector.11. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said body is one of a series of adjacent linked floating bodies arranged so that power can be extracted from the relative motion of said floating bodies.12. A means of dynamic tuning as claimed in wherein said geometry is dynamically varied using at least one linear actuator. Conversion of oceanic wave energy to useful power.The aims of the present invention are to:Dynamic tuning means here the continuous real- ...

METHOD FOR EFFICIENTLY OBTAINING MECHANICAL WORK AND/OR GENERATING POWER FROM FLUID FLOWS AND APPARATUS THEREOF

The invention describes a method for more efficient way of obtaining mechanical work and/or power generation from fluid flows with the oscillating motion of the blade and the counterweight in a direction that is perpendicular to the flow of fluid in conjunction with a smooth and periodic change of the angle of the blade to the flow of fluid over the sine wave which is characterized by being carried out by: rotating the surface of the blade to the direction of the fluid's flow and/or; changing the amplitude of the oscillation of the blade with respect to the fluid's flow rate and/or; changing the amplitude of the angle of the blade with respect to the fluid's flow rate; capturing mechanical work in the form of torque or tensile/compressive force to propel attached machinery or generate power from the arm of the counterweight. The invention further describes the apparatus to carry out this method. 1. (canceled)231522bb. The apparatus for more efficient obtaining of mechanical work and/or generating power from fluid flows comprising of a pendular arrangement of the blade and the counterweight pivoting on a pivot joint , characterized in that the pivot joint () of the blade () is coupled with the counterweight () via the arm () of the counterweight , while the arm () of the counterweight is coupled with at least two mechanisms belonging to the system of control mechanisms comprising:{'b': 10', '21', '20', '22', '10, 'the mechanism (A) with the incorporated flywheel (), the first articulated mounting (), the first rod () and the first pivot joint () to capture torque or tensile/compressive force, wherein an electric generator or machinery is attached to the flywheel ();'}{'b': 24', '23', '25', '4, 'the mechanism (B) comprising the second articulated mounting (), the second rod (), the second pivot joint () and the angle lever () for smooth and periodic variations in the alpha angle between 0° and max.±90° of the blade throughout the oscillation to the direction of the ...

Survivability of Wave Energy Convertors

A wave energy conversion (WEC) system includes a float body, a heave plate, a tether, and a controller. The tether couples the heave plate to the float body. The controller controls the tether between survivability modes. Each survivability mode adjusts a tension and/or length of the tether.