Fluid-current Motors Patents (Class 290/43)
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Patent number: 9890762Abstract: A hydraulic power system is used in a river, ocean or any other body of water having a current. The method is useful for generating useful electric power from flowing water. The flowing water rotates a turbine and a pump that provides hydraulic power to an electric generator for a clean, renewable energy source. The hydraulic power system tethered to the bottom of a body of water and a positive buoyancy mechanism can be integrated or tethered to the pump assembly. The positive buoyancy can support the pump assembly at a predetermined distance above the sea floor.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2015Date of Patent: February 13, 2018Inventor: Gregory McManus
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Patent number: 9887605Abstract: A wind-driven electricity generation device includes a stator assembly and a rotor assembly. The stator assembly includes a case and a magnetically permeable module disposed on the case. The rotor assembly is rotatably arranged in the case and includes a rotating member and a magnetic module disposed on the rotating member. The rotating member has a column and a spiral blade. A gap is formed between the spiral blade and the case. The spiral blade is connected to the column at a helix angle of 21˜55 degrees. The spiral blade is configured to rotate the rotor assembly with respect to the stator assembly by utilizing wind, such that an induced current is generated by the cooperation of the magnetically permeable module and the magnetic module.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2016Date of Patent: February 6, 2018Assignees: KUNIHIRO MIYAKE, NARIIE OMORI, MITSUSHIN CO.,LTD.Inventors: Kunihiro Miyake, Nariie Omori
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Patent number: 9885336Abstract: There is provided a wave power generation system comprising: first and second floating members to generate a floating force, wherein the first and second floating members are spaced from each other; first and second frames respectively coupled to the first and floating members; a pendulum swayably coupled to the first and second frames, wherein the pendulum is disposed between the first and second frames; a physical power converter operatively coupled to the first and second frames and operatively coupled to the first connection bars, wherein the physical power converter is configured to convert a pendulum movement force of the pendulum to a rotation force; a first wire operatively coupled to the physical power converter; a gearbox disposed on a land and operatively coupled to the wire, wherein the gearbox is configured to receive the rotation force from the first wire and to generate a continuous rotation force using first and second weights and one-way clutch.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2016Date of Patent: February 6, 2018Inventor: Chae Gyoung Lim
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Patent number: 9885339Abstract: A fluid power-generating system operatively disposed between a first support and a second support, the system characterized by an absence of a centrally disposed rotor member, and including a machine capable of acting as a motor and as a generator, the machine coupled to the first support; a flexible wing(s) having an arcuate shape, a distal end coupled to the machine and a proximal end coupled to the second support, for catching and passing a flowing fluid; a tensioned balancing system coupled to the supports for stabilizing operation of the power-generating system; and a rigid strut(s) disposed between each flexible wing and the balancing system for supporting each flexible wing.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2016Date of Patent: February 6, 2018Inventor: Valerii Nebesnyi
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Patent number: 9874197Abstract: Some embodiments of a turbine system described herein provide a turbine that rotates in response to fluid flow, and include a rampart device that remains relatively stationary compared to the turbine and is shaped to affect fluid flow for effective power generation. The rotation of the turbine can drive a generator to output electrical energy.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2015Date of Patent: January 23, 2018Assignee: Verterra Energy Inc.Inventor: Theodore J. Christopher
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Patent number: 9850877Abstract: A fluid power-extraction machine is immersed in an ambient flow of a fluid, captures (and extracts energy from) a portion of the fluid, and discharges it back into the ambient flow. The machine includes a housing bounding a fluid intake inlet and including an ambient flow deflector, a downstream body arranged rearwardly from the deflector and forming a discharge outlet between the deflector and the downstream body, and a power extraction device in a fluid flow channel communicating from the fluid intake inlet to the discharge outlet. The deflector outwardly deflects and accelerates a portion of the ambient flow adjacent to the discharge outlet. A mixing surface of the downstream body extends outwardly and rearwardly from the discharge outlet, mixing the accelerated flow, the discharged flow and the ambient flow together along the mixing surface. A backflow preventer of the downstream body prevents wake backflow from impeding discharge of spent flow at the discharge outlet.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2014Date of Patent: December 26, 2017Inventor: George F McBride
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Patent number: 9845790Abstract: A method of operating a wind power installation selectively in a first or second operating mode is disclosed. In the first operating mode, the installation generates as much electrical power as possible based on the prevailing wind and design of the wind power installation, and in the second operating mode generates less electrical power than in the first operating mode. The wind power installation is controlled in the first and second operating modes with first and second adjustment parameter sets, respectively. When the installation is operated in the second operating mode the maximum power which can be generated with the first adjustment parameter set or a differential power between the maximum power and a power currently generated in the second operating mode may be ascertained. The second adjustment parameter set may be selected based on a desired power reduction and the maximum power.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2012Date of Patent: December 19, 2017Assignee: Wobben Properties GmbHInventors: Wolfgang de Boer, Helge Giertz
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Patent number: 9809283Abstract: A multifunctional carrying device for a tidal stream generator and a using method thereof, the multifunctional carrying device for a tidal stream generator comprises: an elongated main floating body; carrying frames, horizontally extending towards the left side and the right side from the center part of the elongated main floating body, an end part of the carrying frames being used for carrying the tidal stream generator; the elongated main floating body being a central floating control pipe (100) with two ends sealed, cable tying locations being positioned at the two ends of the central floating control pipe (100), a pipe air inlet/outlet (702) being disposed above one end of the central floating control pipe (100) and a pipe water inlet/outlet (704) being disposed below the other end of the central floating control pipe (100); a remote air pipe (700), having one end connected to the pipe air inlet/outlet (702) and the other end connected to a control switch (707); the central floating control pipe (100) beiType: GrantFiled: June 19, 2014Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Inventors: Chang Zhang, Wenyu Zhou, Yanqian Pan
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Patent number: 9812255Abstract: Assemblies and systems for contactless power and/or data transfer. The power transfer system includes at least a pair of opposing magnetic cores, each core having an L-shaped cross section. The data transfer system includes at least a pair of opposing stripline and/or microstrip conductors. Components for the power and/or data transfer system are preferably supported by a supporting surface in the rotor and/or stator. In some embodiments, the power and/or data transfer system is provided in a rotor flange and/or a stator flange for modularity.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2013Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: STICHTING NATIONAAL LUCHT-EN RUIMTEVAART LABORATORIUMInventors: Robert Zwemmer, Pieter Rudolf Faasse, Steven Michiel Bardet
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Patent number: 9803615Abstract: A system is provided comprising a tunnel for immersion in a moving mass. Energy from the mass passing through said tunnel converts to rotational force. An energy collector is provided having open and collapsed states, the open state resisting the mass. Bidirectional converter systems convert said rotational force to constant singular direction. A mechanical converter comprises an input shaft turned bidirectionally by said rotational force and two gears driven by the input shaft in opposite rotational directions, the gears separately attached to idler gears causing output gears attached to the idler gears to engage an output shaft in a same rotational direction. A hydraulic converter comprises a hydraulic pump turned bidirectionally by said rotational force. Check valves positioned between the pump and a hydraulic motor enable control of pressure and volume in one direction at the pump.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2017Date of Patent: October 31, 2017Inventor: Joseph Marion Santos
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Patent number: 9777699Abstract: A gravity driven hydroelectric system, whereby hydroelectric power is developed from potential energy of dammed water driving a water turbine assembly. The hydroelectric power extracted from the water depends on volume and on a difference in height between a source and an outflow of the water. A penstock delivers the water to the water turbine assembly. The penstock has a housing secured by frame assemblies to a structure. The housing has electromagnetic coils that produce electricity from a rotation of turbine blades having magnets.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2015Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Inventor: Robillard Decady
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Patent number: 9771922Abstract: A flowing-water driveable turbine assembly (104) for location in river or sea areas with unidirectional and bidirectional water flows. The turbine assembly comprises a turbine support (106) with positive buoyancy in water. The turbine support (106) is arranged to be anchored by an anchoring system (108) to a water bed. The turbine assembly comprises at least one turbine (110). The positive buoyancy of the turbine assembly in water has an upward force to constrain the turbine support 106 and the at least one turbine (110) to a position of floating equilibrium against a downward force of the anchoring system (108). The turbine assembly may have variable buoyancy, a duct around each turbine for directing water through the turbine to generate power from water flow, and a winch or winches for submerging the turbine assembly or parts thereof.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2012Date of Patent: September 26, 2017Assignee: SUSTAINABLE MARINE ENERGY LIMITEDInventor: Jason Hayman
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Patent number: 9770776Abstract: The invention described herein generally pertains to a system and method for a welding device and, in particular, a hybrid welding device, that leverages a renewable energy source for a source of electrical current. The welding device can include one or more renewable energy kits that harvest renewable energy sources for performing a welding operation or a powering at least one of a device or component external to the welding device. The welding device includes renewable energy component that collects an input to convert to an electrical current that can be used as a replacement current, a supplemental current, or a complimentary current.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2013Date of Patent: September 26, 2017Assignee: Lincoln Global, Inc.Inventors: Samir F. Farah, Adam Hruska
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Patent number: 9752550Abstract: A power generation system (1) comprises a housing (3) which at least partly houses a turbine rotor (6) a shaft (4) and a electrical generator arrangement. The system further comprises an inlet guide vane arrangement (16) and an outlet stay vane arrangement (20) which are each detachably attached to the housing (3). The housing (3) comprises two parts (24, 25) that are releasably attached to one another such that the two parts (24, 25) of the housing (3) can be at least partly separated from one another to permit access to the turbine rotor (6) and the electrical generator system.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2014Date of Patent: September 5, 2017Assignee: Kirloskar Energen Private LimitedInventors: Uday Yeshwant Bhende, Sanjay Prakash Joshi, Pranav Sham Marathe, Ashwin Sharad Joshi, Prashant Ramakant Adkar, Shirish Madhav Ganu
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Patent number: 9745951Abstract: A self-propelled, robotic power generating system remains submerged in deep water areas, tethered within steady-state, generally unidirectional sea currents in non-tidal areas for the continuous production of turbine-generated electricity that is transmittable by multipurpose undersea power cable to onshore electric grids.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2016Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Inventor: Robert E. Doyle
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Patent number: 9745959Abstract: A wind turbine is provided. The wind turbine includes a transformer having a low-voltage side and a high-voltage side. The transformer is configured to step up a voltage of the low-voltage side of the transformer to a voltage of an external grid. The wind turbine further includes an electrical power generating unit which is connected to the low-voltage side of the transformer and configured to feed an ac-power to the low-voltage side of the transformer. A charging device of the wind turbine is connected to the low-voltage side of the transformer and configured to charge the low-voltage side of the transformer when the generator does not feed ac-power to the low-voltage side of the transformer.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2013Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Andre Langel
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Patent number: 9745950Abstract: The invention relates to a submersible power plant. The power plant comprises a structure and a vehicle. The vehicle is arranged to be secured to the structure by means of at least one tether. The vehicle is arranged to move in a predetermined trajectory by means of a fluid stream passing the vehicle. The vehicle comprises a first wing and a second wing, where the first wing is arranged at a first distance D1 from the second wing in a longitudinal direction, and the first wing is arranged at a second distance D2 from the second wing in a lateral direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2014Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Assignee: MINESTO ABInventors: Olof Marzelius, Erik Dölerud
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Patent number: 9676090Abstract: A fastener-driving tool including a housing having an air connector, at least one of a power storage device and an electrical component associated with the housing and an electric motor assembly associated with the housing. The electric motor assembly includes a fan where air is supplied to the housing through the air connector and moves through the housing and contacts the fan to cause the fan to rotate, rotation of the fan causing the electric motor to generate electricity that is directed to the at least one power storage device and the electrical component.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2014Date of Patent: June 13, 2017Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Stephen P. Moore, Hanxin Zhao
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Patent number: 9664046Abstract: A system includes at least two tunnels configured for immersion in a moving mass wherein a part of the moving mass passes through the tunnels. An energy collector is disposed in each of the tunnels. The energy collector has an open state and a collapsed state where the collector in the open state collects energy from the moving mass. An actuator joined to each of the energy collectors transitions the energy collector between the open state and the collapsed state. An actuator activator in each of the at least two tunnels activates the actuators where activation of the actuators results in a reciprocating motion of the energy collectors in the tunnels. A cable system joins the actuators for transferring the reciprocating motion. A pulley system translates the reciprocating motion to a rotational force wherein energy from the moving mass is transferred to the rotational force.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2015Date of Patent: May 30, 2017Inventor: Joseph Marion Santos
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Patent number: 9664171Abstract: A system including at least one tunnel is configured for immersion in a moving mass. An energy collector is disposed in the at least one tunnel. The energy collector has at least an open state and a collapsed state where the collector in the open state collects at least an energy of at least a part of the moving mass passing through the at least one tunnel. Alternate activation of an actuator device joined to the energy collector and an activator joined to a weight implement alternately transitions the energy collector to the open and closed state. The alternate transition of the energy collector imparts a reciprocating motion of the energy collector and the weight implement. A cable system joins the actuators for transferring the reciprocating motion. A pulley system translates the reciprocating motion to a rotational force for driving rotational mechanisms.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2016Date of Patent: May 30, 2017Inventor: Joseph Marion Santos
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Patent number: 9660573Abstract: A solar panel enclosure converts sunlight to electricity. To remove the large amount of heat from the enclosure a chambered heat exchanger (CHE) is thermally coupled thereto. An air temperature differential is created between chamber air in a CHE portion and chamber air within a CHE heat exchanging portion. When a threshold thermal gradient is reached, air pressure that keeps the chamber air static is overcome creating airflow within the chamber. The airflow draws cooler ambient air from a chamber inlet. Heat from the enclosure is transferred to the cool air and is exhausted from a chamber outlet.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2015Date of Patent: May 23, 2017Assignee: GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC.Inventors: Richard A. DiPietro, Thomas J. Fleischman, Richard Hutzler, Keith B. Maddern, Mitchell Montanez, William K. Morse
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Patent number: 9627956Abstract: A ride-through and recovery method for DC short circuit faults of a hybrid modular multilevel converter based high-voltage direct current transmission (MMC-HVDC) system, the hybrid MMC including multiple full-bridge sub-modules and half-bridge sub-modules, and the method including: 1) detecting whether a DC short circuit fault occurs, and proceeding to step (2) if yes and continuing detecting if no; 2) realizing ride-through of the DC short circuit fault; 3) detecting whether a DC residual voltage increases, and proceeding to step (4) if yes and continuing detecting if no; and 4) realizing DC short circuit fault recovery.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2015Date of Patent: April 18, 2017Assignee: HUAZHONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYInventors: Jiabing Hu, Kecheng Xu, Maozeng Lu, Wanning Zheng
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Patent number: 9601962Abstract: Described is a wind turbine, a generator and a rotor housing for a generator with an external rotor, the rotor housing comprising a support structure, wherein the support structure is cylindrical shaped, a cone and a ring. The ring and the cone are attached together at an inner side of the cone in a horizontal plane, forming a front part of the rotor housing. The support structure is attached to the cone at a front end of the support structure, forming a side part of the rotor housing, and the support structure is formed out of segmented support structure parts. Also disclosed is the method for making the rotor housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2014Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Assignee: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFTInventors: Anders Sylvester Bjerg, Thomas Soerensen, Ashkan Vaziri Tehrani
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Patent number: 9559567Abstract: A turbine is provided, comprising a housing having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, each in communication with an internal chamber formed within the housing. A rotor is mounted for rotation within the internal chamber. At least one paddle is pivotally mounted to the rotor for pivoting between an extended position in which the paddle extends substantially radially from the rotor for receiving pressure exerted by fluid moving through the housing and causing the rotor to rotate, and a retracted position in which the paddle does not extend from the rotor. A cam is provided in the internal chamber for moving the paddle from the extended position to the retracted position when, during rotation of the rotor, the paddle moves past the cam in the extended position. Magnetic biasing means may be used to bias the paddle in the extended or retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2015Date of Patent: January 31, 2017Assignee: 1564330 ONTARIO INC.Inventor: Albert Patterson
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Patent number: 9546643Abstract: The revolving overhead windmill includes airfoils that harvest wind energy using a configuration, in the class of vertical axis wind turbines, wherein the airfoils are modestly elevated above a water or ground surface through the use of buoyancy forces and elongated structural members. The airfoil angle of attack is controlled in a periodic manner as each airfoil revolves around a closed circuit of revolution, in order to optimize system energy harvest as measured by metrics such as megawatts of electric power generation under rated wind conditions. Typical large-scale applications in high wind, offshore locations can substantively contribute to utility-scale renewable energy production and also contribute towards climate change mitigation targets.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2014Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: RIC EnterprisesInventor: Mithra M. K. V. Sankrithi
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Patent number: 9531246Abstract: A fluid-driven electricity generator includes a stator assembly and a rotor assembly. The stator assembly includes a stator core that includes a plurality of stator windings and one or more stator turbines connected to the stator core. The one or more stator turbines are configured to rotate in a first direction. The rotor assembly includes a plurality of permanent magnets that are substantially surrounded by the stator core. The rotor assembly also includes one or more rotor turbines connected to the plurality of permanent magnets. The one or more rotor turbines are configured to rotate in a second direction that is opposite the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2015Date of Patent: December 27, 2016Inventor: Grover Curtis Harris
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Patent number: 9506450Abstract: A submersible power generator with an inner/outer double rotational armatures-type power generation mechanism provided with an outer rotational armature and an inner rotational armature opposing the outer rotational armature and rotatable in a direction opposite of the outer rotational armature, and a pair of propellers disposed coaxially with blades of each of the pairs of propellers twists in opposite directions relative to an extending direction of a central axis of the pair of propellers, and a casing for accommodating and shielding the inner/outer double rotational armatures-type power generation mechanism. The submersible power generator, as installed under water to operate in a current, has a buoyancy F acting thereon that is larger than gravity W acting thereon during operation of the submersible power generator due to gravity acting on the mooring wire, so that F>W+gravity acting on the mooring wire?buoyancy acting on the mooring wire.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2012Date of Patent: November 29, 2016Assignee: KYOWA ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS CO., LTD.Inventors: Toshiaki Kanemoto, Isao Samura
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Patent number: 9506370Abstract: A generator system fluidly connected between a first preexisting pipe and a second preexisting pipe comprising a generator with a first preexisting pipe flange and a second preexisting pipe flange, without forming any holes in the first and second preexisting pipes. A first and second generator flange for engaging a non-magnetic section of pipe and the preexisting pipes and a plurality of coils secured to the non-magnetic section of pipe. A plurality of rare earth magnets secured to an outer surface of a rotating drum or a propeller and configured to energize the plurality of coils. At least one radial bearing, a thrust bearing and a junction box electrically connected to the plurality of coils for receiving energy produced by the plurality of coils and for transmitting a current.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2015Date of Patent: November 29, 2016Assignee: TAZMAN TUBINZ, INC.Inventors: Bruce A. Kaiser, Bryon D. Hodges, James R. Oldham
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Patent number: 9506449Abstract: A submersible power generator with an inner/outer double rotational armatures-type power generation mechanism provided with an outer rotational armature and an opposing inner rotational armature to rotate opposite to the outer rotational armature, and a pair of propellers, where one of the propellers is connected to one of the inner and outer rotational armatures and the other of the propellers is connected to the other armatures, and a casing for accommodating the inner/outer double rotational armatures-type power generation mechanism and shielding it from an external environment. The submersible power generator is installed under water to operate in a water current with a gravity W that is larger than buoyancy F acting thereon during operation of the submersible power generator, and makes a rotational moment center that a sum total of rotational moments generated by gravity W, buoyancy F, and drag D in a water current becomes zero.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2013Date of Patent: November 29, 2016Assignee: KYOWA ENGINEERING CONSULTANTS CO., LTD.Inventors: Toshiaki Kanemoto, Isao Samura
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Patent number: 9488155Abstract: An ocean current power generating apparatus using dual-duct with boundary layer control effect is provided. The ocean current power generating apparatus with dual-duct includes at least one power generating unit. The power generating unit includes a turbine, an inner duct and an outer duct. The turbine has a shaft box. The turbine is located inside the inner duct. An outer diameter of an inflow side of the inner duct is less than an outer diameter of an outflow side of the inner duct. The outflow side of the inner duct is located inside the outer duct. An outer diameter of an inflow side of the outer duct is less than an outer diameter of an outflow side of the outer duct.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2014Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: National Taiwan Ocean UniversityInventor: Young-Zehr Kehr
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Patent number: 9477214Abstract: Systems and methods provided herein. In one embodiment, a system includes an advisory system including a loss computation engine configured to derive a total system loss for an industrial plant based on a first sensor positioned in a first industrial plant component and on a first physical model of the first industrial plant component. The advisory system further includes a cost model configured to use a cost function to derive a cost based on the total system loss, and a control strategy system configured to derive an advisory report, a control correction factor, or a combination thereof, based on the cost, wherein a control system is configured to apply the control correction factor to control a process in the industrial plant.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2013Date of Patent: October 25, 2016Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Awadesh Kumar Tiwari, Mahesh Kumar Asati, Raub Warfield Smith, Achalesh Kumar Pandey
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Patent number: 9470211Abstract: A power control system provides an output power control for a generator. The power control system includes a power conversion unit, a sensing unit, a load-dumping unit, and a control unit. The power conversion unit receives and converts a current and a voltage, generated from the generator, to supply a load. The sensing unit receives the current and the voltage to produce a current signal and a voltage signal. The load-dumping unit is connected to the generator and the power conversion unit. The control units receives the current signal and the voltage signal, produces a current control signal to control the power conversion unit, and generates a voltage control signal to control the load-dumping so as to control the output power of the generator.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2014Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Assignee: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.Inventors: Chih-Hung Hsiao, Jo-Fang Wei
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Patent number: 9452721Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus are disclosed for generating power for a vehicle. A power generator may include a first loop configured to be deployed from a portion of a vehicle. The power generator also includes a first plurality of resistive devices coupled to the first loop, at least one resistive device of the first plurality of resistive devices being configured to transfer a force to the first loop. The power generator may also include a pulley coupled to the first loop, the pulley being configured to receive the force transferred to the first loop, and the pulley being further configured to rotate in response to receiving the force from the first loop. The power generator may also include a generator coupled to the pulley, the generator being coupled to an electrical system, and the generator being configured to deliver power to the electrical system in response to the pulley rotating.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2013Date of Patent: September 27, 2016Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Steve Mackin
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Patent number: 9447775Abstract: A method of using a bagged power generation system comprising windbags and water-bags for harnessing wind and water power to produce electricity to meet the escalating energy needs of mankind. Windbags integrated with aerodynamically shaped inflatable bodies filled with lighter-than-air gas: HAV, UAV, airplanes; enabling the apparatus to attain high altitude to capture and entrap high velocity wind. Water-bags integrated with hydrodynamic shaped bodies HUV, UUV, Submarine-boats; enabling the apparatus to dive, capture and entrap swift moving tidal-currents. Attached tether-lines pulling on the rotating reel-drums and generators to produce electricity. Active control surfaces, turbo-fans, propellers provide precision control of the apparatus. A system configured to maximize fluids capture, retention and optimized extraction of its kinetic energy.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2015Date of Patent: September 20, 2016Inventor: Yik Hei Sia
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Patent number: 9444109Abstract: A system and method for supplying hydrogen gas, and a hydrogen fuel cell system are provided to solve inconvenience caused by the requirement for replacing a hydrogen storage container during hydrogen gas supplement. The system for supplying hydrogen gas includes a hydrogen storage unit, a hydrogen conveying unit and a charging device connected to the hydrogen storage unit, where the charging device includes a charging opening matched with a hydrogen gas infusing unit. It may be noted that according to the solution provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure, when hydrogen gas needs to be supplemented, an external infusing device may be used to infuse hydrogen gas to the hydrogen storage container in the hydrogen storage unit through the charging opening, which avoids replacement of the hydrogen storage container during an entire infusing process, and makes an intensive hydrogen gas supplement process more convenient and faster.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: September 13, 2016Assignee: HUAWEI TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD.Inventors: Xingjie Wang, Haijun Wu
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Patent number: 9435819Abstract: A turbine environment wireless transmitter for monitoring bearing health inside jet turbines. This transmitter has the ability to operate in 225 to 300 degree Celsius environments and monitor real time bearing temperature and vibration and transmit that data to a centralized system for processing. The system is powered by a built in thermal electric generator, which produces power in response to a thermal gradient across it. The information transmitted is used to monitor and diagnose a bearing operating parameters in real-time and predict a failure event before any damage occurs.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2013Date of Patent: September 6, 2016Assignee: Cree Fayetteville, Inc.Inventors: John Fraley, Bryon Western, Roberto Marcelo Schupbach
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Patent number: 9382895Abstract: A water generator assembly includes a water generator having two forwarding wings on the front end thereof and the forwarding wings are applied by current and generate a resistance force and a lifting force. The resistance force and the lifting force are combined as a composition force which has a forwarding component force in the X-axis to offset the drag force cause by the current applying to the water generator. A component force in Y-axis is offset by the forwarding wings. A balance wing is connected to the water generator to prevent the water generator from spinning about the X-axis. The water generator has a lifting wing to generate a lifting force to lift the water generator. A buoyant floats and indexes the water generator. A tail wing and two side wings keep the water generator facing the current and prevent the water generator from spinning about the Y-axis.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2013Date of Patent: July 5, 2016Assignee: Kun Shan UniversityInventor: Shueei-Muh Lin
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Patent number: 9382900Abstract: A wind farm includes at least two first-direction wind power generation units and at least one second-direction wind power generation unit. The first-direction wind power generation units are spaced apart from each other at a predetermined interval and have blades that rotate in a same direction. The second-direction wind power generation unit is located adjacent to and between the first-direction wind power generation units and has blades that rotate in an opposite direction to a rotational direction of the first-direction wind power generation units.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2014Date of Patent: July 5, 2016Assignee: DOOSAN HEAVY INDUSTRIES & CONSTRUCTION CO., LTD.Inventor: Ik Hyung Lee
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Patent number: 9379546Abstract: Systems and methods for performing vector control of grid-connected power electronic converters using a neural network are described herein. Optionally, the grid-connected power electronic converters can be used in renewable and electric power system applications. In order to improve performance and stability under disturbance conditions, integrals of error signals can be introduced as inputs to the neural network. Alternatively or additionally, grid disturbance voltage can be introduced to an output of a trained neural network.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2014Date of Patent: June 28, 2016Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of AlabamaInventor: Shuhui Li
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Patent number: 9334847Abstract: A fluid-driven electricity generator includes a stator assembly and a rotor assembly. The stator assembly includes a stator core that includes a plurality of stator windings and one or more stator turbines connected to the stator core. The one or more stator turbines are configured to rotate in a first direction. The rotor assembly includes a plurality of permanent magnets that are substantially surrounded by the stator core. The rotor assembly also includes one or more rotor turbines connected to the plurality of permanent magnets. The one or more rotor turbines are configured to rotate in a second direction that is opposite the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2013Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Inventor: Grover Curtis Harris
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Patent number: 9267487Abstract: A wave power plant for extracting energy from the wave movement of a water surface area, which wave power plant comprises a frame construction (1), in which at least two rotors (3, 3a) are journalled, and wherein each rotor (3, 3a) is suspended in the frame construction (1) to the effect that the water mill wheel (3) is able to rotate about a shaft which is, in the normal use position of the wave power plant, essentially horizontal and is retained in the frame construction (1), and wherein means are provided for maintaining each of the rotors (3, 3a) partially immersed into a water surface area. The wave power plant is floating and comprises at least two non-parallel rotor shafts on which at least one rotor (3, 3a) is arranged on each rotor shaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2014Date of Patent: February 23, 2016Assignee: Weptos A/SInventor: Tommy Larsen
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Patent number: 9234501Abstract: A method of using a bagged power generation system comprising windbags and water-bags for harnessing wind and water power to produce electricity to meet the escalating energy needs of mankind. Windbags integrated with aerodynamically shaped inflatable bodies filled with lighter-than-air gas: HAV, UAV, airplanes; enabling the apparatus to attain high altitude to capture and entrap high velocity wind. Water-bags integrated with hydrodynamic shaped bodies HUV, UUV, Submarine-boats; enabling the apparatus to dive, capture and entrap swift moving tidal-currents. Attached tether-lines pulling on the rotating reel-drums and generators to produce electricity. Active control surfaces, turbo-fans, propellers provide precision control of the apparatus. A system configured to maximize fluids capture, retention and optimized extraction of its kinetic energy.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2015Date of Patent: January 12, 2016Inventor: Yik Hei Sia
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Patent number: 9228560Abstract: Hydroelectric generation devices, and more particularly fixed or floating paddlewheel electric generation devices that may be placed in any flowing liquid source in order to generate power, are presented. Such an overall power generating system includes a paddlewheel component that is situated within an artificial channel properly configured to increase the velocity of the flowing liquid therethrough, thereby providing a manner of generating paddlewheel rotation at a speed greater than that relative to the main body of the fluid itself. The inventive system thus permits power generation through the capture of the kinetic energy derived from the paddlewheel rotation at a level that is acceptable in relation to available hydrokinetic energy of the fluid source.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2014Date of Patent: January 5, 2016Inventor: Marjorie Willingham
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Patent number: 9214811Abstract: Variable frequency alternate current (VFAC) bus arrangements and systems using such VFAC bus arrangements are described, such as arrays of turbines. Such systems have a centrally located power process hub connected to the VFAC bus arrangements in a way that there is a dedicated VFAC bus arrangement for each turbine of the array.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: December 15, 2015Assignees: CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, ONE-CYCLE CONTROL, INC.Inventors: Gregory T Smedley, John Oluseun Dabiri
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Patent number: 9168984Abstract: The wind power plant includes blades mounted on an annular pontoon. The pontoon is rotatable about a vertical axis. An energy converter is situated on a platform that is encircled by the annular pontoon. A kinematic mechanism is designed so as to be capable of transmitting the rotational energy of the annular pontoon to the receiving unit of the energy converter. The floating platform is equipped with positioning means that include at least six anchors located on the bottom of a body of water. The anchors are connected to the platform by flexible members and are offset in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the annular pontoon relative to the point at which the flexible member is attached to the platform. The technical result is an increase in the number of places where the wind power plants can be installed and an increase in electric power generation.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2012Date of Patent: October 27, 2015Assignees: Federal Agency for Legal Protection of Millitary, Special and Dual Use Intellectual Activity Results (FALPIAR), Far East Federal University (FEFU)Inventor: Victor Valeryevich Cheboxarov
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Patent number: 9151269Abstract: A run-of-the-river or ocean current turbine may comprise a hatch and a slanted block having protector ribs for directing water flow to a waterwheel. The hatch may be controlled by a plurality of Transgear™ gear assemblies for varying the amount of water flow to the waterwheel from extreme drought to flood conditions so that the waterwheel may turn at rated speeds and within a predetermined range. The Transgear gear assemblies may comprise an accumulator for accumulating a rough and a fine tuned waterwheel speed. The Transgear assemblies may comprise embodiments of power take-off switches for, for example, bi-directional or clockwise and counterclockwise waterwheel shaft rotation. The turbine may be aligned for top-feed, side-feed or bottom feed of water and may comprise a tail wing or first and second turbines facing in opposite directions to capture high and low tidal flow.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 6, 2015Assignee: Differential Dynamics CorporationInventor: Kyung Soo Han
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Patent number: 9035479Abstract: A controller for optimizing the operation of a turbine to maximize the net present value of the revenue it generates over its lifetime. The controller calculates a plurality of net present values for a plurality of turbine output levels given certain input parameters such as power sale rate, power output level vs. fatigue damage accumulation, etc.; determines a maximum net present value from the plurality of output levels evaluated; and operates the turbine at the output level associated with the maximum net present value.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2014Date of Patent: May 19, 2015Assignee: WIND STREAM PROPERTIES, LLCInventor: Robert Gates
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Publication number: 20150123401Abstract: A water-based power generating installation includes a water based power generating device operable to derive power from a body of water, and to export that power via a power export cable, and an infrastructure arrangement for providing a power export connection from the installation, and including infrastructure equipment for the installation, which infrastructure equipment serves to connect the power generating device with the power export connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2013Publication date: May 7, 2015Inventors: Paul Vigars, Benjamin Palethorpe
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Patent number: 9018786Abstract: A water current power generating device for generating electric power from water current power includes a sway vibrating body which bends in a response to a fluid force exerted on a circumference surface thereof by a water current, sways in a bending state, and generates tension in a response to a deflection angle from a direction of the water current, and at least one tension power generating unit for converting electro-magnetically or piezoelectrically the tension transferred from the sway vibrating body into the electric power such that a stable electric power can be generated from water current power in a variety of water areas of slow-moving water current to fast-moving water current.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2012Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: NEC CorporationInventor: Yoshinori Hama
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Publication number: 20150108755Abstract: A turbine-based energy generation system includes an electric generator and auxiliary load. A power system for the turbine-based energy generation system includes a main converter and an auxiliary converter. The main converter is operable to deliver power generated by the electric generator to a power collection system external to the turbine-based energy generation system when the main converter is coupled to the generator. The main converter is also operable to deliver power provided from the power collection system to the auxiliary converter when the main converter is decoupled from the generator. The auxiliary converter is operable to deliver power generated by the electric generator to the auxiliary load when the auxiliary converter is coupled to the generator. The auxiliary converter is also operable to deliver the power provided by the main converter from the power collection system to the auxiliary load when the auxiliary converter is decoupled from the generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2013Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventors: Debrup Das, Sandeep Bala