Abstract: A hydrokinetic energy conversion system (HKECS) is provided, comprising design configurations suitable for efficient production of tidal or river in-stream kinetic energy into useful mechanical energy for tasks such as generating electricity or water pumping. The apparatus includes a set of blades with an airfoil cross sectional contour moving on a horizontal or vertical closed loop track, whereby the blades are propelled through the water by a net tangential lift force, rather than drag, to effectively convert the kinetic energy of flowing water to useful power.

Abstract: A thermal magnetic engine and a thermal magnetic engine system are disclosed. The thermal magnetic engine includes a fixed element, a rotation element, working fluid and a fin structure. The rotation element includes a working material. The rotation element rotates relative to the fixed element. The working fluid flows through the rotation element and forms a temperature difference on the working material. The fin structure is disposed on the rotation element. The rotation element rotates along a rotating direction due to the temperature difference on the working material and/or due to the flowing of the first working fluid through the fin structure.

Abstract: A system and method to preemptively adjust power generation of one or more non-wind power generators based on near term wind generation capability, spinning reserve margin, and/or power grid spinning reserve forecast requirements to offset wind power generation based on geospatial regional wind conditions.

Abstract: Electric generator is disclosed having a stator and a rotor. The rotor being rotatable around a center axis and relatively to the stator and the stator includes a number of stator windings extending in freely exposed end windings. The stator and/or the rotor is provided with at least one barrier means which barrier means axially extends to such a manner that at least the end windings of the stator are at least partially covered.

Abstract: A system for a hydraulically powered electric generator having a hydraulic motor coupled to an electric generator. The electric generator has a field coil that provides field excitation in the rotor. The rotor also has a permanent magnet that provides initial field excitation. A voltage regulator is connected to the rotor to adjust current in the field coil to maintain a constant output voltage as generator speed and load varies.

Abstract: A power recovery system using the Rankine power cycle incorporating a two-phase liquid-vapor expander with an electric generator which further consists of a heat sink, a heat source, a working fluid to transport heat and pressure energy, a feed pump and a two-phase liquid-vapor expander for the working fluid mounted together with an electric generator on one rotating shaft, a first heat exchanger to transport heat from the working fluid to the heat sink, a second heat exchanger to transport heat from the heat source to the working fluid.

Abstract: A system and method to preemptively adjust power generation of one or more non-wind power generators based on near term wind generation capability, spinning reserve margin, and/or power grid spinning reserve forecast requirements to offset wind power generation based on geospatial regional wind conditions.

Abstract: A wave energy electric power generation system has a buoyant body responsive to wave movement and an associated, relatively vertically stationary body, a compressor, a pressure regulator, and an impulse air turbine/generator set. The compressor has a piston that moves reciprocally relative to a cylinder to alternately compress air in opposed chambers. A pressure regulator tank defines a chamber in communication with the compressor for alternately receiving compressed air from opposed compression chambers, a floating piston within the tank applying pressure to compressed air in the chamber, a pressure regulator controlling pressure applied by the piston to the compressed air, and an hydraulic dampening system coupled to the floating piston to restrict unwanted vertical oscillations of the piston, for output of a continuous flow of compressed air at relatively constant pressure.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a system that generates a sufficient level of electricity through access to a municipal water supply line to run a furnace during below freezing temperatures. The system includes an inlet that draws water from a water supply line. A first conduit, in communication with the inlet, transports the water into a DC generator that includes an impeller to generate electricity. Water is then routed through a second conduit which then returns the water to the water supply line through an outlet. A solenoid valve may be positioned between the inlet and first conduit which remains closed when the electric grid runs normally but will open during a power outage to supply water to the DC generator. A lithium battery stores power created by the DC generator, which may include a voltage regulator and inverter to convert to DC.

Abstract: An electric power generation system may be constructed of multiple similar generator modules arranged between a rotor and a stator. The rotor may be coupled to and/or integrated with a turbine that is configured to rotate in the presence of a fluid stream such as wind or water. Each generator module may have a rotor portion configured to generate a magnetic field having at least one characteristic that changes with respect to the rotational speed of the rotor. Each generator module may further have a stator portion configured to generate an alternating electric current responsive to the magnetic field. The generated electric current may be controlled by the stator portion of the generator module in order to magnetically control the rotational speed of the rotor and the turbine. Separation between the rotor and stator portions of the generator module may be magnetically maintained.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A passive bluff body is disposed in flowing fluid for generating power. The shape of the bluff body supports a predetermined oscillatory clockwise and counter clockwise movement about a pivot absent the influence of electrical or mechanical devices for biasing the bluff body's motion for a given velocity, or range of velocities, of the fluid flow.

Abstract: A device for generating electricity from a pressurized water circulation system is disclosed. The device utilizes water flow within a tubular member to provide mechanical force to rotate a rotor. The electrical generator includes a rotor comprising an impeller, wherein the rotor is configured to receive liquid flow within an electromagnetic induction armature from the tubular member, a stator configured to generate electrical energy within a plurality of coils utilizing a magnetic flux generated by the electromagnetic induction armature when rotated adjacent to the stator, and a bypass tubular member configured to selectively route liquid around the electrical generator to adjust voltage of generated electrical energy. The device is operable within a swimming pool circulation system and feeds back electrical power to the pool pump.

Abstract: A downhole tool for generating power is provided that includes a conductive fluid disposed downhole within a tubular member, an energy harvesting apparatus, and a pressure changing apparatus. The energy harvesting apparatus includes a magnet configured to generate a magnetic field and an electrical conductor configured to move with respect to the magnet. The pressure changing apparatus is configured to supply a differential pressure across the energy harvesting apparatus, such that the electrical conductor moves with respect to the magnet.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recovering exhaust kinetic energy. The apparatus includes a valve assembly, a motor generator and a controller. The valve assembly includes a rotary shaft which is disposed in an exhaust gas pipe and a flap which is disposed on the rotary shaft. The flap is rotated by an exhaust gas that is ejected. The motor generator is connected to the rotary shaft of the valve assembly, and in a first instance generates electricity using a rotational force transmitted from the rotary shaft and in a second instance applies a torque to the rotary shaft. The controller fixes the rotary shaft of the valve assembly at a predetermined angle in the first instance and adjusts the speed of rotation of the rotary shaft by controlling the motor generator in the second instance.

Abstract: A current controller device using a vector control algorithm for controlling conversion of DC power into AC power is provided. The controller device has an open loop control loop gain and produces a first and a second voltage demand signals based on a first and a second current demand signals, a first and a second current feedback signals, a first and a second voltage feedback signals. The open loop control loop gain depends on frequencies of the first and second current feedback signals. A first and a second filters are provided at a first and a second current feedback inputs respectively. The first and second filters each have a filter characteristics to reduce the frequencies of the first and second current feedback signals at which the open loop control loop gain is greater than unity and has a phase less than or equal to minus 180°.

Abstract: Disclosed is a diffuser controller for tidal stream power generation, for use in a tidal stream power generator installed under water to generate electricity using a tidal stream. The diffuser controller includes: a turbine configured to be rotated by the tidal stream; a diffuser which is formed with an inlet through which a fluid flows into the diffuser and an outlet through which the fluid flows out from the diffuser, the turbine being fixed inside the diffuser and a rear foil being rotatably installed in the outlet; and a control unit configured to adjust an rotating angle of the rear foil depending on a direction or velocity of the tidal stream. The diffuser is configured to be rotatable.

Abstract: Devices that generate electrical energy from a flow of pressurized gas and methods of use thereof. While in no way limited thereto, exemplary device embodiments are ideally suited for powering electrical energy consuming devices wherever pressurized gas (e.g., air) is available but electrical primary power is not. This includes, for example, control and monitoring equipment, especially wireless devices, in industrial settings and in remote settings such as pipelines.

Abstract: An energy generating system includes a first pair of elongate arms, having proximal and distal ends, configured for substantially symmetrically opposing reciprocal swinging motion in a substantially horizontal plane. A first pair of substantially vertical sails are each attached at the distal end of one of the elongate arms, the sails being configured to drive opposing reciprocal swinging motion of the arms in response to a flow of fluid therepast. A first generator assembly is attached to the proximal ends of the first pair of arms, and is configured to generate electrical energy from the substantially symmetrical opposing reciprocal swinging motion of the arms.

Abstract: A system for electro-hydrodynamically extracting energy from wind includes an upstream collector that is biased at an electric potential and induces an electric field. An injector introduces a particle into the electric field. The wind drag on the particle is at least partially opposed by a force of the electric field on the particle. A sensor monitors an ambient atmospheric condition, and a controller changes a parameter of the injector in response to a change in the atmospheric condition.

Abstract: The faucet device (1) of the present invention includes a device body (2); a solenoid valve (12); a spout port forming portion (44); a generator (14) for generating electrical power by rotating an impeller; a solenoid valve-side water-passage forming member (52) for guiding water to the generator; a spout port-side water-passage forming member (42) for guiding water to a spout port; a first elastic member (52a) for sealing between the solenoid valve-side water-passage forming member and the generator and allowing relative displacement therebetween; a second elastic member (42b) for sealing between the spout port-side water-passage forming member and the generator and allowing relative displacement therebetween; a third elastic member (60) for coupling the solenoid valve-side water-passage forming member and the device body and allowing relative displacement therebetween; and a fourth elastic member (58) for coupling the spout port-side water-passage forming member and the device body and allowing relative dis

Abstract: This invention relates to a wind turbine having an additional mass each placed between a mounting end and a free end of at least two rotor blades. This invention further relates to a method for controlling a wind turbine with a pitch system for pitching a blade in a pitch angle and with blades with a mass for increased inertia, which wind turbine is operated in a normal operation mode in which a generator has a generator speed at a generator torque, and which wind turbine is to remain electrically coupled to a grid during a low voltage condition and with supplied current specifications, torque reference, power references, or according to a grid code.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: Presented is an underwater power plant including a support structure, a nacelle, the support structure and the nacelle being detachably connectable to one another via a coupling device, a water turbine, the water turbine at least indirectly drives an electrical generator that is received in the nacelle, and an inductive transmission device, where inductive transmission device transmits power generated by the electrical generator from the nacelle in a contactless manner to the support structure, and where the inductive transmission device includes a transformer with a primary side and a secondary side, the primary side is assigned to the nacelle and the secondary side is assigned to the support structure.

Abstract: This is a low-cost, ingenious, high-efficiency energy producing system from hydrokinetic energy in water waves, currents and tides. Cost advantages are due to the use of existing bridge structures to mount the water energy converter to withstand fierce wind and water forces.

Abstract: The placement of fully available prime movers having a DC output at a location inside or adjacent to an inverter-based intermittently available renewable energy site is disclosed. The fully available prime movers add reliability to an unreliable energy asset that is reaching its maximum penetration within the grid due to its unpredictability and the requirement for additional spinning reserves in other parts of the grid. The present invention can provide a portion or all of the power to an intermittently available renewable power generating facility so that the power output to the power grid is dispatchable power. In particular, a method and means are disclosed to utilize high-efficiency engines operated on various fuels some of which may be non-fossil fuels to maintain a constant power output from an otherwise intermittent power generating facility.

Abstract: A system includes a cooling water intake conduit having a water intake in a submerged area of an open natural body of water, a first water-to-water heat exchanger having a first side in fluid communication with the cooling water intake conduit, and a closed water loop in fluid communication with a second side of the water-to-water heat exchanger and arranged to route water to cooling structures at a computer data center.

Abstract: An electrical power generator assembly (10a) for using kinetic energy from a flowing fluid (12) to generate electrical power. The electrical power generator (10a) includes a blade assembly (14) and at least one primary coil (52). The blade assembly (14) having a head end (16) for facing incoming flowing fluid (12), a tail end (18) spaced from the head end (16) for facing in the direction of the flowing fluid (12), and a rotational axis (20) extending between the head end (16) and the tail end (18). The blade assembly (14) includes a blade arrangement (44) which is arranged in generally helical fashion about the rotational axis (20), and at least one mounting formation (26, 36) connected to the blade arrangement (44).

Abstract: A wind blade structure includes a wind blade frame (3), wind blade shafts (5, 6, 24) provided in the wind blade frame (3), movable blades (4) and blade stoppers (23). The blade stoppers (23) are projecting elements on the wind blade frame (3) or the wind blade shafts (5, 6, 24) for blocking the movable blades (4) from rotating when the movable blades (4) rotate to a position where they overlap with the wind blade frame (3). The areas of two portions of the movable blade (4) on both sides of the wind blade shaft (5, 6, 24) are not equal. A wind power generating apparatus is also disclosed, comprising at least one wind wheel mechanism rotating around its rotary shaft (2). The wind wheel mechanism includes at least one wind blade structure. The wind power generating apparatus and the wind blade structure may endure the impact of a strong wind without being damaged easily.

Abstract: The invention relates to a flow power plant, comprising a water turbine having torsionally rigid rotor blades, a drive train connected to the water turbine, which at least indirectly drives an electric generator and is characterized in that at inflow speeds v for which the flow power plant is designed, the water turbine is configured to be non-auto-restarting for tip speed ratios ? below a predetermined auto-restart tip speed ratio ?s where ?s?1.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an electro-magnetic metallurgy high powered electric energy density push-repel two stage magnetic stack cylinder drive motor and a hydro-kinetic high pressure hydraulic and nitrogen gas piston drive pump propulsion motor arrangement. A linear electric generator can be coupled to the arrangement to generate electric energy or the output shaft may be provided for propulsion uses.

Abstract: The hydroelectric device contains two base members, a hoist member, a paddle wheel member, and a power generation member. The base members are for the installation of the other members. The host member contains a pair of arm elements rotatably connected to the base members. The paddle wheel member contains an axle whose two ends are pin-joined to the arm elements, respectively. Therefore, the axle is rotatably configured across the arm elements, and across the base members. An end of the axle is configured with a first transmission element. The power generation member has a second transmission element at its input end engaged by the first transmission element. When the axle is turned and the first transmission element spins synchronously, the second transmission element of the power generation member is engaged to spin synchronously and the power generation member is driven to produce electricity.

Abstract: A remote monitoring and control system comprising synchronized wireless MESH technology for remote monitoring and control of utility grids (e.g., utility meters), commodity distribution networks, industrial equipment, and infrastructure including remote disconnection/connection and self-generating power.

Abstract: A linear energy harvesting device that includes a housing and a piston that moves at least partially through the housing when it is compressed or extended from a rest position. When the piston moves, hydraulic fluid is pressurized and drives a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor drives an electric generator that produces electricity. Both the motor and generator are central to the device housing. Exemplary configurations are disclosed such as monotube, twin-tube, tri-tube and rotary based designs that each incorporates an integrated energy harvesting apparatus. By varying the electrical characteristics on an internal generator, the kinematic characteristics of to the energy harvesting apparatus can be dynamically altered. In another mode, the apparatus can be used as an actuator to create linear movement.

Abstract: There are a large number of sites in the world's oceans and rivers that can provide a significant, viable, and cost effective source of renewable energy. Many are strategically located close to populated areas where these sites can be used to harness energy using ecologically benign hydrodynamic technology. A hydrodynamic array comprises multiple hydrodynamic elements for producing electricity by the motion of ocean tides or river currents and forces acting on the hydrodynamic array, which is immersed in ocean tides or river currents and which is in motion relative to the ocean tides or river currents.

Abstract: An arrangement includes a secondary fluid conduit fitted to a primary fluid conduit which is fitted with a pressure reducing valve, a first isolating valve upstream, and a second isolating valve downstream. The secondary fluid conduit defines an inlet for allowing fluid flowing through the primary fluid conduit to enter the secondary fluid conduit, to define a mode in which all the fluid flows through the secondary fluid conduit, and an outlet for allowing fluid flowing through the secondary fluid conduit to rejoin the primary fluid conduit after the second isolating valve, the flow of fluid through the secondary fluid conduit bypassing the pressure reducing valve. The secondary fluid conduit is fitted with at least one rotatable turbine, a third isolating valve upstream, and a fourth isolating valve downstream. Under the influence of the fluid flowing through the secondary fluid conduit, each turbine can rotate to drive an electricity generator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wave-power aggregate and a method of extracting energy from wave motion in a liquid by means of a wave-power aggregate. The wave-power aggregate comprises a container which is situated at least partially in the liquid and also comprises an inflow and an outflow. The container is arranged to, under the influence of said wave motion, to let a first part of the container arrange itself in a first position and a second part of the container in a second position, where the first and second position corresponds to different potential energy states. The method comprises the steps of: alternately supplying the container with at least a first and a second fluid respectively via the inflow, where the density of the fluids differs. at least during an initial stage of the method controlling a flow resistance in at least one of the first and second fluids through the container.

Abstract: A power generation apparatus according to the present invention includes: an induction generator; a switch that opens or closes an electrical connection path connecting the induction generator to an electrical path in which an alternating current of a predetermined frequency flows; a control unit that controls the opening and closing state of the switch; and an expander that rotationally drives the induction generator by a working medium supplied thereto. In order to suppress a starting current generated when starting the induction generator while suppressing an increase in cost, the control unit closes the switch after the working medium is supplied to the expander so that the expander starts to rotationally drive the induction generator.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A power recovery system using the Rankine power cycle incorporating a two-phase liquid-vapor expander with an electric generator which further consists of a heat sink, a heat source, a working fluid to transport heat and pressure energy, a feed pump and a two-phase liquid-vapor expander for the working fluid mounted together with an electric generator on one rotating shaft, a first heat exchanger to transport heat from the working fluid to the heat sink, a second heat exchanger to transport heat from the heat source to the working fluid.

Abstract: Heated air rises in a long, diagonal chimney up the side of a mountain. The airflow in the chimney turns wind turbines. Air entering the chimney's feeder tubes is heated in stages, where each stage has its own solar concentration and thermal insulation needs. Water, water vapor and air can be preheated as they are shipped to a chimney's lower end. Both low heat for preheating and high heat can be stored for night electricity generation and for continuing the chimney's electric production during cloudy periods. Water vapor rising a considerable elevation in a diagonal chimney will condense, giving up latent heat to the chimney air as it produces distilled water or mountaintop snow. Artificial thunderstorm cells downwind from the chimney are discouraged through a reduction in negative ions in the outgoing air and through thorough mixing of chimney air with the atmosphere at the chimney's top.

Abstract: A hydro electric energy generation structure is disclosed. The structure comprises: a gravity wall forming a closed outer perimeter extending above an upper water level of an existing hydraulic reservoir, and extending below the reservoir floor; at least one water inlet hydraulically connecting a first penstock to a first turbine generator below the water inlet. The structure further comprises: at least one lower water storage reservoir within the perimeter of the gravity wall receiving water from the first turbine generator; at least one pump receiving water from the lower water storage reservoir and pumping it through a pump delivery conduit to at least one upper water storage reservoir above the gravity wall; at least one second penstock delivering water from the upper water storage reservoir to a second turbine generator below; and a tailrace for returning the water into the existing reservoir.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: The invention describes a system and a method for controlling an electric generator connected to the power grid during a voltage drop in the power grid, the system comprising a back-to-back converter (2) connected between the generator (3) and the power grid (4) and also, in parallel to the generator side converter (2a), rectifying means (5) connected in series between the generator (3) and the DC-link (2b) of the back-to-back converter (2), thus providing an alternative way for the energy excess at the generator side to enter the DC-link (2b).

Abstract: In one embodiment, a control system of a variable speed pumped storage hydropower system includes an optimization processing unit configured to calculate a flow rate adjusting valve opening demand value and a first command value, a speed control unit configured to generate a secondary current active power component command value of a secondary excitation device based on the first command value, a mechanical (pump-turbine) output compensation unit configured to calculate a compensation value of the opening of the flow rate adjusting valve and/or a compensation value of the generator-motor output, and an output control unit configured to generate a flow rate adjusting valve opening command value based on the generator-motor output command value, the flow rate adjusting valve opening demand value, the compensation value calculated by the mechanical output compensation unit, and the output detection value of the generator-motor.

Abstract: A system for electro-hydrodynamically extracting energy from wind includes an upstream collector that is biased at an electric potential and induces an electric field. An injector introduces a particle into the electric field. The wind drag on the particle is at least partially opposed by a force of the electric field on the particle. A sensor monitors an ambient atmospheric condition, and a controller changes a parameter of the injector in response to a change in the atmospheric condition.

Abstract: An underwater apparatus for generating electric power from ocean currents and deep water tides. A submersible platform including two or more power pods, each having a rotor with fixed-pitch blades, with drivetrains housed in pressure vessels that are connected by a transverse structure providing buoyancy, which can be a wing depressor, hydrofoil, truss, or faired tube. The platform is connected to anchors on the seafloor by forward mooring lines and a vertical mooring line that restricts the depth of the device in the water column. The platform operates using passive, rather than active, depth control. The wing depressor, along with rotor drag loads, ensures the platform seeks the desired operational current velocity. The rotors are directly coupled to a hydraulic pump that drives at least one constant-speed hydraulic-motor generator set and enables hydraulic braking. A fluidic bearing decouples non-torque rotor loads to the main shaft driving the hydraulic pumps.

Abstract: An installation for producing supplementary electrical energy for an electricity network includes at least first and second water reservoirs, the first water reservoir being situated at a first level and the second water reservoir being situated at a second level lower than the first level, a communicating pipe between the first water reservoir and the second water reservoir being provided with a remote-controlled valve, and a hydro-electric generating system being provided with a pumping installation. The first and/or second water reservoir is integrated in the foundations in the lower portion of an artificial building that needs to be built for a primary function independently of a secondary function of producing electricity. The first water reservoir or the second water reservoir may constitute a common body of water in the vicinity of ground level.