Fluid-current Motors Patents (Class 290/43)
  • Publication number: 20090236852
    Abstract: There is provided a power generation and distribution system for use in combination with a utility conduit having fluid passing therethrough. The power generation and distribution system includes a rotation element disposable within the utility conduit. The rotation element rotates in response to fluid passing within the utility conduit. A power generator is in mechanical communication with the rotation element, and generates power in response to rotation of the rotation element. This system also includes a power distributor in electrical communication with the power generator and electrically connectable to a power outlet to distribute power thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Alfiero Balzano
  • Patent number: 7586206
    Abstract: A wind turbine includes an asynchronous generator having a rotor and a stator, means for determining an actual torque-speed curve of the generator, means for determining an actual grid frequency, and means for determining a shifted torque-speed curve in response to the determined actual grid frequency if the determined actual grid frequency is higher than a predetermined upper frequency limit or lower than a predetermined lower frequency limit. The means for determining a shifted torque-speed curve is further adapted to determine the shifted torque-speed curve such that an increase in the rotor voltage of said generator rotor is counteracted when shifting the actual torque-speed curve to the shifted torque-speed curve. The wind turbine further includes means for shifting the actual torque-speed curve of the generator to the shifted torque-speed curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Werner Barton, Wilhelm Janssen, Robert Delmerico, Nicholas W. Miller
  • Patent number: 7579700
    Abstract: A system for converting electricity into pressurized air, and converting pressurized air into electricity. The system includes a pressurized air reservoir, two high pressure tanks, a pump and an electrical motor convertible into a hydro turbine and an electricity generator, a volume of water equal to a tank's volume, a set of controllable valves for connecting and disconnecting independently each tank, to the atmosphere, to the pump inlet and outlet, and to the air reservoir. In use, a volume of water in the first tank is pumped into the second tank, the air in the second tank is compressed and flows into the air reservoir. By changing position of the valves, the operation repeats with opposite roles of the tanks. In an electricity generating mode, the system operates by transferring pressurized air from the air reservoir into the first tank which is full of water, the pressurized water flowing through the hydro turbine generator thereby generating electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Moshe Meller
  • Patent number: 7579704
    Abstract: A wave power apparatus includes at least one rotationally supported arm (122) which carries a float (124) at its free end, so that a translational movement of the float caused by a wave results in rotation of the arm (122). The apparatus comprises power conversion means for converting power transmitted from the wave to the arms into electric power, e.g. a hydraulic system, in which a hydraulic medium is displaced by the movement of the arm, the hydraulic system being coupled to an electric generator. The apparatus comprises a hydraulic lifting system for lifting the float out of the ocean and for locking the float in an upper position above the ocean surface, e.g. during extreme sea wave conditions, such as storm. The lifting system may comprise at least one pump for pumping hydraulic cylinders for lifting the arm out of the ocean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Wave Star Energy APS
    Inventors: Per Resen Steenstrup, Niels Arpe Hansen, Keld Hansen
  • Patent number: 7579701
    Abstract: A system for insulating a building and generating electricity includes a method for providing insulation for a building that resists heat transfer through conduction, convection and radiation, creating a series of air channels to transfer heat away from the underside of a roof using air currents, and harnessing such air currents to generate electricity. A series of turbines are positioned within or adjacent to the air channels, and are rotated by the air currents. The turbines are connected to an electrical generator, which generates electricity when the turbines are rotated. The generator is then connected either to an electrical storage device, such as a battery or a series of batteries, or is alternatively connected to the local power grid to provide electrical power back into the power grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald J White
  • Publication number: 20090206602
    Abstract: The fluid power generator is provided. The fluid power generator includes: a first member that has multiple coils; a second member that is rotatable relative to the first member and that has multiple permanent magnets; a rotating member that is mechanically linked with either one of the first member and the second member to rotate by fluid force; and a clearance controller that moves at least one of the first member and the second member to thereby change a clearance between the first member and the second member, wherein the clearance controller changes the clearance in such a manner as to make the clearance smaller after a start of rotation of the rotating member than before the start of rotation of the rotating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazuyoshi NAKAMURA, Kesatoshi TAKEUCHI
  • Patent number: 7566983
    Abstract: The proposed water-wind combined energy conversion installation comprises a hydro-unit including two lower rotors below the water level furnished with blades providing their rotation in opposite directions around a vertical axe, lower inductors, a wind-unit including two upper rotors above the level furnished with blades providing their rotation in opposite directions around the axe, upper inductors, a base structure including a lower and upper polygon-shaped frames, each including outer rods joined in vertexes, inner rods linking the non-adjacent vertexes joined by internal junctions, a float unit disposed below the reservoir's freezing lever and the level of waves produced by winds, secured substantially to the reservoirs' bottom, a linear tubular tower supported by the float unit, wherein the frames are fixed to the tower through the internal junctions, the lower inductors are fixed to the vertexes of lower frame and the upper inductors are fixed to the vertexes of upper frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Inventor: Victor Lyatkher
  • Patent number: 7564144
    Abstract: The invention is a transportable hydroelectric power generating system which is capable of being fully or partially assembled in a factory setting and then transported to a water stream. The system includes either a wind-driven or solar-powered pump or both features which serve to further supply pressurized water to the impellers on the water wheels. Thus marginal streams may become power generating sites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventors: Simon Srybnik, Louis Srybnik
  • Publication number: 20090167022
    Abstract: A system for providing electrical power from a current turbine is provided. The system includes a floatation device and a mooring. A water turbine structure is provided having an upper and lower portion wherein the lower portion includes a water fillable chamber. A plurality of cables are used to couple the system where a first cable couples the water turbine to the mooring and a second cable couples the floatation device to the first cable. The system is arranged to allow the turbine structure to be deployed and retrieved for service, repair, maintenance and redeployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2009
    Publication date: July 2, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel P. Costin
  • Patent number: 7554215
    Abstract: A generator can convert the energy from subsurface currents or undertow into electricity. The generator has a submergible electrical coil adapted to allow water propelled by subsurface currents to enter and flow axially through the coil. The electrical coil is supported above a sea floor in substantial alignment with the subsurface currents. A magnetic shuttle is mounted to longitudinally reciprocate in the coil, driven by water flowing through the coil. Additionally, a plurality of electrical coils can be submerged above a sea floor. Magnetic shuttles are placed separately into a corresponding one of the coils to longitudinally reciprocate, driven by water flowing through the coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Paul Caragine
  • Patent number: 7550863
    Abstract: The invention concerns a wind turbine comprising a vertical tower with a yaw bearing, a nacelle on top of the yaw bearing, a hub with blades rotatable around a more or less horizontal rotation axis. The nacelle has a generator and a control room, whereby the generator comprises a rotor with a rotor shaft supported on two rotor bearings carrying the hub, and a stator comprising a cylindrical outer shell with a stator diameter that is approximately equal to the diameter of the nacelle and which outer shell has at its ends a front cover plate and a back cover plate each with a rotor bearing for supporting the rotor shaft. In accordance with the invention the rotor shaft is hollow and the hollow hub is accessible from the control room through the hollow rotor shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Greenergy India Private Ltd
    Inventor: Cornelus Johannes Antonius Versteegh
  • Publication number: 20090152867
    Abstract: A self-sustaining electrical power generating system includes a spring system that stores stored energy, the spring system having an input for recharging the stored energy and an output for releasing the stored energy, wherein the spring system generates a monitor signal based on a status parameter of the spring system and wherein the spring system releases the stored energy in accordance with an output control signal. A generator converts the stored energy of the spring system into electric power. A spring recharge module recharges the stored energy of the spring system in response to a recharge control signal. A control module generates the recharge control signal and the output control signal, based on the monitor signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Cripps
  • Publication number: 20090146422
    Abstract: The invention is a transportable hydroelectric power generating system which is capable of being fully or partially assembled in a factory setting and then transported to a water stream. The system includes water channeling features which enhance the pressure within the system that the water exerts and a secondary pump feature which serves to further supply pressurized water to the impellers on the water wheels. Thus marginal streams may become power generating sites.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventors: Simon Srybnik, Louis Srybnik
  • Publication number: 20090140522
    Abstract: A turbine (2) driven electric power production system (1), —said turbine (2) arranged for being driven by a fluid (3) having a fluid speed (v) varying in time, —said turbine (2) connected to a hydrostatic displacement pump (6) further connected to a hydrostatic displacement motor (8) as part of a closed loop hydrostatic transmission system (7), —said motor (8) arranged for driving an electrical generator (9) supplying AC power (10) at a frequency (fg) near a given desired frequency (fdes), characterized by a closed loop system arranged for controlling a volumetric displacement (13) of the hydrostatic motor (8), comprising —a fluid speed meter (11m) arranged for producing a speed signal (11s) representing a speed (v) of said fluid (3), and —a rotational speed meter (12m) arranged for providing a rotational speed signal (12s) representing a rotational speed measurement (?) of said turbine (2), —a motor displacement control system (15) for continuously receiving said speed signal (11s) and said rotational speed
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventors: Peter Chapple, Ole Gunnar Dahlhaug, Per Olav Haarberg
  • Publication number: 20090140525
    Abstract: A system and process for generating hydroelectric power within a body of water uses head pressure existing between two depths of the water. A vertically arranged conduit has an upper water intake and is in fluid communication with a reservoir situated at a lower depth. In a first cycle, water flow is established in the conduit between the water intake and lower reservoir when the reservoir is substantially full of air but at a hydrostatic pressure less than the hydrostatic pressure at the top of the water conduit. A turbine mounted adjacent the reservoir and at a lower depth than the water intake drives an electric generator. As water is introduced into the reservoir, air is scavenged by a compressor and used to drive water from a second reservoir. After the first reservoir is generally full of water, valves are provided to cease the flow of water through the water intake and flow of air out the exhaust tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: STEVEN J. DEANGELES
  • Publication number: 20090140523
    Abstract: A system and process for generating hydroelectric power within a body of water relying on the pressure head existing between two depths of the water. A vertically arranged conduit or penstock has an upper water intake and is in fluid communication with a reservoir situated at a lower depth. In a first cycle, water flow is established in the conduit or penstock between the water intake and lower reservoir when the reservoir is substantially full of air. A turbine housing is mounted adjacent the reservoir at a lower depth than the water intake and houses an electric turbine generator having blades mounted within the conduit or penstock to be driven by the flow of water to generate electricity. As water is introduced into the reservoir, air is exhausted out an air exhaust tube to a point above the surface of the body of water. After the reservoir is generally full of water valves are provided to cease the flow of water through the water intake and flow of air out the exhaust tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Steven J. DeAngeles
  • Publication number: 20090134623
    Abstract: A preferred embodiment includes a system for power generation through movement of fluid having a variety of configurations and implementations. One preferred embodiment includes a system for power generation through movement of fluid includes a power generating cell with a generally cylindrical housing a ring for rotating disposed in said housing, one or more impellers fixedly coupled to said ring, and a generator operably coupled to said ring for receiving energy from the one or more impellers in which fluid is disposed about one or more impellers for creating energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventor: Wayne F. Krouse
  • Publication number: 20090129928
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a turbine comprising a plurality of blades that rotate in a single direction when exposed to fluid flow, wherein the plurality of blades are joined to the central shaft by a plurality of radial spokes disposed substantially perpendicular to the central shaft such that the rotating plurality of blades causes the shaft to rotate. The plurality of blades has a uniform airfoil-shaped cross section, where the airfoil cross section presents a non-zero angle of attack to the current. The plurality of blades wind in a spiral trajectory, rotating around the central shaft and having a variable radius along the length of the central shaft such that a distance measured from the plurality of blades to the center shaft is greater near the center of the turbine than at either end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: May 21, 2009
    Inventors: Christopher R. Sauer, Patrick McGinnis, Igor Yatskar, Millard S. Firebaugh
  • Publication number: 20090121481
    Abstract: Fluid is moved from an aquifer to a higher elevation, and is used at the higher elevation for a domestic or industrial application. Subsequently, the fluid is allowed to return from the higher elevation to the aquifer. Kinetic energy of the fluid returning to the aquifer is converted into electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2007
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventor: William Riley
  • Publication number: 20090115189
    Abstract: A power generation device includes a tower forming top and bottom reservoirs and a plurality of vertically arranged compartments between the top and bottom reservoirs. Each compartment is separated from the next lower compartment by a partition that defines a discharge opening. A rotary mechanism is arranged in each compartment and includes a rotary shaft carrying receptacles having openings set in different orientations. The shaft is coupled to a dynamo. Water is deposited in the top reservoir and is allowed to flow downward into the next lower compartment through the discharge opening for filling into the receptacles to cause rotation of the shaft, which in turn drives the dynamo to generate electrical power. Water flowing downward into the bottom reservoir can be selectively pumped back to the top reservoir for maintaining cyclic operation of the power generation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Inventor: HSIEN-MING LIN
  • Patent number: 7525208
    Abstract: There is provided a method of operating a wind power installation. Under first operating conditions in a normal operating mode the wind power installation delivers a first power to a connected electrical network. That first power is proportional to the wind speed. The wind power installation is controlled in such a way that upon the occurrence of a disturbance it remains on the connected electrical network and delivers to the connected electrical network a second power which is lower than the first power. Upon cessation of the disturbance and under the first operating conditions a third power is briefly delivered to the connected electrical network, the third power being significantly higher than the first power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Inventor: Aloys Wobben
  • Patent number: 7525207
    Abstract: A system includes a floating platform-mounted computer data center comprising a plurality of computing units, a sea-based electrical generator in electrical connection with the plurality of computing units, and one or more sea-water cooling units for providing cooling to the plurality of computing units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmy Clidaras, David W. Stiver, William Hamburgen
  • Publication number: 20090102193
    Abstract: A fluid-driven electric generator for operatively connecting to a conduit carrying a fluid. The generator includes a driving portion and a generating portion. The driving portion is non-protrudingly positioned in the conduit so as to have its placement be non-visible from outside the conduit and is activated by the fluid flowing in the conduit. The generating portion is operatively connected to the driving portion and generates electricity when the driving portion is activated by the fluid flowing in the conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventor: Liam C. Murphy
  • Patent number: 7521816
    Abstract: A water powered motor for extracting raw energy from a water current and converting it to kinetic energy. The water powered motor is generally rectangular in shape with a generally round water wheel consisting of foldable vanes. The vanes receive raw energy produced by water current transforming that raw energy into usable energy for powering a pump, electric generator or as a general power source to power other equipment such as desalinization machinery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Inventor: Jim C. Helfrich
  • Publication number: 20090091134
    Abstract: A wave-flow power installation comprises a float, a convergent-divergent water passage, attached to the float by an arm furnished with a hinge to turn the passage perpendicularly to a water stream, two turbines coaxially mounted in the passage, oriented orthogonally to the stream, each having a shaft oriented across the passage, an end of the shafts is attached to the wall of passage, supplied with hydro-dynamical blades, providing opposite rotation of the turbines, and an electro-generator including two rotors kinematically coupled with the shafts of the first turbines, providing rotation of the rotors in the opposite directions, and a stationary inductor disposed between the rotors. In some embodiments, the electro-generator is enclosed in a cavity of a hermetic capsule. The present invention can be used for building non-polluting power plants on rivers, in coastal areas of sea, and in proximity to platforms for underwater extraction of minerals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: April 9, 2009
    Inventor: Victor Lyatkher
  • Publication number: 20090085353
    Abstract: Hydroelectric pumped-storage includes monitoring electrical demand on a system over time. If the monitored demand exceeds a predetermined first value, fluid is allowed to flow substantially under the influence of gravity from a first aquifer to a second aquifer. Kinetic energy from the flowing fluid is converted into electrical energy. If the monitored demand drops below a predetermined second value, fluid from the second aquifer is moved to the first aquifer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Publication date: April 2, 2009
    Inventor: William Riley
  • Patent number: 7511387
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating and a method for creating the apparatus are disclosed. In an embodiment, the apparatus comprises an element (e.g., a mountain) having a conduit formed therein. The conduit has an inlet and an outlet, with the inlet disposed at a first elevation and the outlet disposed at a second elevation higher than the first elevation. A generator is disposed in the conduit such that fluid moving through the conduit motivates the generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: Mehdi Fakhrai
  • Patent number: 7511385
    Abstract: The present invention provides_a power converter that can be used to interface a generator (4) that provides variable voltage at variable frequency to a supply network operating at nominally fixed voltage and nominally fixed frequency and including features that allow the power converter to remain connected to the supply network and retain control during supply network fault and transient conditions. The power converter includes a generator bridge (10) electrically connected to the stator of the generator (4) and a network bridge (14). A dc link (12) is connected between the generator bridge (10) and the network bridge (14). A filter (16) having network terminals is connected between the network bridge (14) and the supply network. A first controller (18) is provided for controlling the operation of the semiconductor power switching devices of the generator bridge (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Converteam Ltd
    Inventors: Rodney Jones, Paul Brian Brogan, Erik Grøndahl, Henrik Stiesdal
  • Publication number: 20090079191
    Abstract: A power generation system includes: a prime mover; an electrical machine coupled to the prime mover and configured for converting mechanical power to electrical power, the electrical machine having a power factor of less than or equal to 0.7; a reactive power supply assembly coupled to the electrical machine and configured to supply reactive power to the electrical machine; and a power electronic converter coupled to the reactive power supply assembly and configured for transferring power from the electrical machine to a grid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Jorge Mari, Michal-Wolfgang Waszak, Simon Schramm
  • Patent number: 7508088
    Abstract: A wind turbine system includes a wind turbine generator having a rotor and a nacelle mounted atop wind tower. The wind tower is mounted on a central caisson. The wind turbine system further includes a plurality of tensioned mooring lines flexibly secured to the central caisson. The mooring lines are further secured to a plurality of anchors fixed on to a sea bed. The anchors are adapted to support lateral loads on the wind turbine system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Vasanth Srinivasa Kothnur, David Deloyd Anderson, Danian Zheng, Mohamed Ahmed Ali
  • Patent number: 7501712
    Abstract: Turbines are attached to the out-flow discharge drain lines of public sewer systems to convert the kinetic energy of the flowing and often pressurized waste water to electrical energy, by using Hydro-Generators and conducting this new electrical power back to the power grid for the local community. It meets increasing consumer demand for more public services like water/sewer/electricity generating electrical power using the resources that are already at hand, and must dispose of on a daily basis. It will be able to meet the future demands of a growing population. It is harmless to the environment and will automatically increase the electrical supply as the demand continues to increase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Inventor: David Bolyard
  • Patent number: 7498683
    Abstract: A device for converting flow energy of a fluid into electrical energy, said device comprising: h) a rotor (1) which can be driven by the fluid and comprises rotor shaft (2), i) an electric generator (16, 17) comprising a generator shaft (6), j) a gear system comprising a gear shaft (4; 4?) for transferring a rotational movement of the rotor shaft (2) to the generator shaft (6), k) a support structure (30), l) a carrier structure (20) which forms a rotor bearing (2a) for the rotor shaft (2), a gear bearing (4a; 60) for the gear shaft (4; 4?) and a generator bearing (6a) for the generator shaft (6); m) and an adjusting bearing (40; 75) which adjustably bears the carrier structure (20) relative to the support structure (30); n) wherein at least one of the gear shaft (4; 4?) and the generator shaft (6) is arranged lower than the adjusting bearing (40; 75).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: Wilhelm Landwehr
  • Patent number: 7492054
    Abstract: An improved tidal and river energy converter having a semi-submerged device designed to harvest energy from the tidal and river sites. Each device is connected to other like devices to form an interconnected array of tidal and river energy devices that are anchored to the shore at right angles to the prevailing tidal and river current. Each device is composed of a supporting floatation hull attached to a submerged strut supporting an air compressor driven by a slow rotating propeller. The air compressor is connected through a streamlined mooring system to the other air compressors in the array and those in turn are connected to a high pressure line leading underwater to an onshore air turbine electric generator connected to the local power grid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher S. Catlin
  • Patent number: 7489046
    Abstract: A system for providing electrical power from a current turbine is provided. The system includes a floatation device and a mooring. A water turbine structure is provided having an upper and lower portion wherein the lower portion includes a water fillable chamber. A plurality of cables are used to couple the system where a first cable couples the water turbine to the mooring and a second cable couples the floatation device to the first cable. The system is arranged to allow the turbine structure to be deployed and retrieved for service, repair, maintenance and redeployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Northern Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel P. Costin
  • Publication number: 20090021011
    Abstract: A hydroelectric turbine generator and control system is provided that optimizes the maximum possible power output at all times by strictly monitoring power output from the generator unit and modulating the wicket gate angle and the runner blade pitch independently of one another. The hydroelectric turbine generator includes a means for separately controlling wicket gate angle and runner blade pitch. The wicket gate angle control mechanism controls the flow into the system, pre conditions flow for maximum power and maintains reservoir level. The runner blade pitch control mechanism continuously monitors the system power output based on actual power produced, and adjusts system parameters in order to achieve maximum power output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Salvatore Shifrin, Joseph Shifrin
  • Patent number: 7471009
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for a turbine for generating electrical power from water or air flow comprising at least one rotor disk having a plurality of hydrofoil blades, a guide vanes, a cylindrical housing, and a generator means. A rim generator comprising a magnet race rotor rim and fixed stator coils in the housing is used. The apparatus is fitted with a screen to stop the ingress of debris and marine life, and a skirt augmenter device to reduce the Betz effect. The apparatus is preferably for sub-sea deployment and driven by tidal currents, but may be powered by river current or wave driven air or by wind. The apparatus may be deployed on at least one telescoping pole, tethered to the sea-bed and kept buoyant by buoyant concrete in the housing, inserted in a dam, under a barge or in a tidal power array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Clean Current Power Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Lena Marie Davis, legal representative, Emmanuel Grillos, Stephen Allison, Barry V. Davis
  • Patent number: 7471010
    Abstract: A wind turbine tower assembly for storing compressed gas such as hydrogen. The tower assembly includes a wind turbine having a rotor, a generator driven by the rotor, and a nacelle housing the generator. The tower assembly includes a foundation and a tubular tower with one end mounted to the foundation and another end attached to the nacelle. The tower includes an in-tower storage configured for storing a pressurized gas and defined at least in part by inner surfaces of the tower wall. In one embodiment, the tower wall is steel and has a circular cross section. The in-tower storage may be defined by first and second end caps welded to the inner surface of the tower wall or by an end cap near the top of the tower and by a sealing element attached to the tower wall adjacent the foundation, with the sealing element abutting the foundation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Alliance For Sustainable Energy, LLC
    Inventor: Lee Jay Fingersh
  • Patent number: 7471006
    Abstract: The present invention is a system for generating power using water current. In one embodiment, a subsurface power generating system includes a first power generating node, with at least one cross-flow turbine, at least one universal gear coupled to the at least one cross-flow turbine, at least one modular generator; and at least one clutch for engaging and disengaging the at least one modular generator and the at least one universal gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Gulfstream Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip Todd Janca, Phillip Paul Janca
  • Patent number: 7468563
    Abstract: An ocean wave driven energy device that uses the power of ocean waves to continually lift and lower a float which in turn lifts or lowers one side of a lever arm about a stationary pivot point thereby driving down or raising a piston, which is attached to the opposite side of the lever arm, thru a cylinder which in turn causes large volumes of air to move. That air is funneled to drive turbines which produce electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph J Torch
  • Patent number: 7468564
    Abstract: An electrical power supply system comprises an air-powered alternating current electrical generator in which pressurized air from a single source is used to drive an air turbine secured on the shaft of the alternating current electrical generator. One uncontrolled nozzle continuously directs air from the single source to the air turbine. At least a second controlled nozzle directs air from the single source. A solenoid-controlled shut-off valve is placed in a conduit between the source of compressed air and the second nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Wabtec Holding Corp.
    Inventor: Donald M. Crisafulli
  • Patent number: 7466035
    Abstract: The invention is a transportable hydroelectric power generating system which is capable of being fully or partially assembled in a factory setting and then transported to a water stream. The system includes water channeling features which enhance the pressure within the system that the water exerts and a secondary pump feature which serves to further supply pressurized water to the impellers on the water wheels. Thus marginal streams may become power generating sites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventors: Simon Srybnik, Louis Srybnik
  • Publication number: 20080303284
    Abstract: A low-profile apparatus for converting water current into electricity. Fabric scoops are spaced along a continuous belt and, when submerged in a current of moving water, are pushed by the current thereby causing the continuous belt to move. The current pushes the fabric scoops downstream and then fold closed as the fabric scoops are rotated out of the water and travel back upstream. The moving continuous belt is used to turn an electric generator, which causes the apparatus to produce electrical energy. The apparatus includes one or more floats to support the continuous belt, electric generator, and other components of the apparatus. The apparatus can be moored or anchored in a variety of locations where there is moving water or currents. The apparatus maintains a low profile by using fabric scoops that collapse and fold flat when not submerged thereby reducing wind resistance and visible surface area above the waterline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Hayes Clemens
  • Patent number: 7462945
    Abstract: A liquid treatment system that may be self-powered includes a filter and a hydro-generator. A flow of liquid may be filtered with the filter and used to rotate the hydro-generator to generate electric power. The liquid treatment system may include a first liquid flow path that provides treated liquid, and a second liquid flow path that provides untreated liquid. The filter and the hydro-power generator are included in the first liquid flow path so that electric power is generated by the hydro-power generator when liquid flows through the first liquid flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Access Business Group International, LLC.
    Inventors: David W. Baarman, Thomas Leppien, Terry Lee Lautzenheiser, Christopher B. Houghton, Stephen J. McPhilliamy
  • Publication number: 20080284168
    Abstract: A system capable of converting fluid energy into electrical energy in conditions of low fluid flow is provided. In an embodiment, the system may engage and disengage an energy converter via an automatic clutch. In an embodiment, the transmission of energy to an energy converter is controlled by switching the energy converter on and off. In another embodiment, the flow of electrical energy to an electrical load is controlled by a switching device. In another embodiment, a funnel is used for condensing the flow of fluid moving through the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Douglas P. Arduini
  • Publication number: 20080284169
    Abstract: A method and system of producing electrical energy by a moving vehicle. Moving air would be introduced to the vehicle provided with a generator for producing electricity. This electricity would be transmitted to one or more storage batteries connected between the generator and the vehicle's motor. Once sufficient energy is stored in the storage batteries, the vehicle would proceed to a facility for transferring the stored electricity in the storage batteries to batteries or other storage devices provided at the facility. The vehicle's owner would then receive remuneration or credit based upon the amount of energy transferred.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Paul Sabella
  • Patent number: 7453164
    Abstract: A system for capturing and converting and/or storing wind energy includes a vessel adapted to receive at least one wind machine for capturing wind and a device for converting wind energy to storable energy. A method of adapting a vessel, such as a surplus cargo ship or an oil tanker, for use as a offshore power generating system comprises equipping a vessel with devices for capturing a renewable energy source, positioning the vessel at sea to capture the renewable energy source, converting the renewable energy to a storable energy source, and storing the converted energy, and repositioning the vessel to capture further renewable energy or transport the stored, converted energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Polestar, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert M. Borden, Wendell M. Smith
  • Patent number: 7453166
    Abstract: A system for generating electricity from fluid currents having one or more trolleys that move along a closed-loop track as a result of the interaction of fluid currents on one or more blades attached to each trolley. Electrical energy may be generated by the movement of the one or more trolleys along the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Oceana Energy Company
    Inventors: Daniel E. Power, III, Ned R. Hansen, Dody Bachtar, Alan Schilke
  • Publication number: 20080247872
    Abstract: Operations of a turbine to generate energy from a relatively slow fluid flow, such as wind and water, are described. The turbine has a plurality of foils rotating about a central axis at a rotational velocity, each of the foils having a length and a foil axis parallel to the length and the central axis with each of the foils rotatable about its foil axis. From determinations of a velocity of the fluid flow, and angular location of each foil and the rotational velocity about the central axis, an attack angle of each foil is controlled with respect to the direction of fluid flow about the foil axis responsive to the velocity of the fluid flow, the angular location of the foil and the rotational velocity as the foil rotates about the central axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: LONESTAR INVENTIONS LP
    Inventor: Osman Ersed Akcasu
  • Publication number: 20080238099
    Abstract: A water supply tunnel secondary purpose turbine electric power generator system includes: a.) a water supply subsystem with a water source at an elevation that is at least 300 feet above the mean altitude of a community, that includes a gravity fed underground water tunnel being located, at least in part, upstream from the community, and, at least in part, being located under the community. There is a plurality of riser conduits in the community connected to the gravity fed underground water tunnel, delivering water from the water source to the community at a pressure that is at least 100 psi in excess of desired water pressure delivered to community water lines; b.) water valving subsystems connected to each of the riser conduits and one of each including at least one safety valve, to lower water pressure of the delivered water; and, c.) a power generating turbine subsystem, including at least one water driven turbine located in at least one of the water supply subsystem and water valving subsystem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Mark R. Ziegenfuss
  • Patent number: 7429803
    Abstract: The sewer line power generating system is designed to be positioned within a manhole. The system generates electricity from water flowing through sewer lines. The system includes a hydro turbine that can be raised and lowered into water flowing through sewer lines. They system also includes a flow control plate that accelerates and directs the water for optimal power generation. The system further includes an actuator that raises and lowers the system in response to the water flow. The system further includes a pressure gauge to measure water pressure at the turbine and adjust the position of the turbine in response to the water pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Inventor: Rufus Davis