Associated With Dam Patents (Class 405/78)
  • Patent number: 11781277
    Abstract: A dam according to the present disclosure includes a main dam including a first reservoir, and at least one first discharge part configured to discharge water stored in the first reservoir, an auxiliary dam spaced apart from the main dam at a predetermined interval and including a second reservoir configured to store the water discharged from the main dam, and at least one second discharge part configured to discharge the water stored in the second reservoir, and an underground water path being provided separately at a lower side of a bottom surface of the river or stream under a lower side of the second reservoir, and including a third discharge part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Inventor: Myeong Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 11300093
    Abstract: The present invention is a reversible pump-turbine installation positioned in a vertical borehole instead of in a conventional underground powerhouse or deep concrete powerhouse. The required plant cavitation coefficient may be achieved by simply boring a vertical borehole to the required depth rather than routing the water flow to and from a deeply buried powerhouse. A pneumatically controlled pressure relief valve may be incorporated into this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Inventor: Henry K. Obermeyer
  • Patent number: 11073139
    Abstract: The power plant disclosed is an engine that derives its usefulness in the pursuit of energy generation by utilizing hydrostatic pressure differentials found or created in various liquids, gases or solutions, such as but not limited to water and air. It is generally provided as a configuration designed to create a pressure differential, and to use the pressure differential to increase the effective head seen via a penstock and turbine system. Pump systems that are employed include venturi systems, jet pump systems and other comparable mixed-pressure vacuum pumps. Multiple power generating systems are interconnected to provide continuous and constant power generation through a penstock and turbine system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2021
    Inventor: Mark R Anteau
  • Patent number: 10760233
    Abstract: A precast dam structure includes at least two precast segments coupled together via linkages and a flow path structure. The flow path structure defines a flow path having an intake port and a draft port and is associated with at least one of the at least two precast segments. The flow path structure is configured to provide a change in flow direction, either internally or externally, from the at least one of the at least two precast segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: FRENCH DEVELOPMENT ENTERPRISES, LLC
    Inventor: William L. French, Sr.
  • Patent number: 10450711
    Abstract: A method is provided for the artificial erosion of dammed bodies of water, wherein an average grain size distribution of sediments in the dammed body of water is determined across the ground surface of the dammed body of water. A sediment requirement for downstream water is determined, and as a result, at least one displacement of the sediments in the dammed body of water into the downstream water takes place in accordance with the sediment requirements for the downstream water. Advantageously, requirements regarding at least the quantity and grain size of the sediment for the downstream water are determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Inventor: Dietrich Bartelt
  • Patent number: 9157204
    Abstract: A system and method to provide water and sediment flow through a rock jetty, which includes a plurality of collection components mounted along a forward face of the rock jetty, each collection component having a plurality of flow pipes to receive water carrying sediment; a principal flow pipe to receive flow from the plurality of flow pipes and to carry water and sediment a predetermined distance to deposit at the rear of the jetty; a continuous trough mounted on the jetty forward face to efficiently capture water and sediment at entrances of the plurality of flow pipes; and a filter screen covering the entrance of the trough to allow water and sediment to flow into the trough and to prevent large rocks and other debris from entering. Sections of principal flow pipe may be removed when sufficient quantity of sediment has been deposited, so that additional sediment can be deposited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Inventor: Webster Pierce, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9103084
    Abstract: Dams are a useful source of energy. An embodiment of a dam according to the present invention includes precast segments configured to be coupled together to form a dam optionally used to generate energy. An embodiment includes encasing an existing dam structure using interconnected precast segments. An underpinning system may penetrate the existing dam structure and be employed to assist in maintaining position of the dam or segmental components. A further embodiment includes encasing a main energy generation component using interconnected precast segments formed from a composite material including electrically conducting fibers, an electric circuit configured to measure and report the electrical resistance using a transmitter or transceiver to a dam stress/strain monitoring server. The electrical circuit may be powered directly or indirectly by available power supplied by the main energy generation component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: French Development Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: William L. French, Sr.
  • Patent number: 9103316
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tidal current power generator. In the tidal current power generator, tidal current flows in a concentrated manner into a power generation module for generating electrical energy using the flow of tidal current, in order to increase the speed of the tidal current. Thus, the amount of electrical energy generated by the power generation module may be improved to achieve highly efficient performance. Also, the range of locations in which the power generation module may be installed is significantly expanded in order to increase the electrical generation using tidal current. Since the power generation module is integrally assembled and then refloated in order to install same on the bottom of the sea, the power generation module may be easily installed as well as easily repaired and maintained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Assignee: RENETEC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jong-Seon Park
  • Patent number: 8939677
    Abstract: A low head power generating system is disclosed including a wall pivotably attachable to a structure for moving between a generally upright position and a generally flat position. In the upright position, the structure or wall impounds water, and has a power generating cell connected to the wall, which rotates by movement of water there-through and is operably connectable to a generator for generating power. A support braces the wall in the upright position. The support is adjustable with a first end connected to the wall and a second end extended against a structure, and can be an inflatable bladder, a pressurized piston or other mechanism to move the wall. The cell can be mounted on the surface of the wall or integrated within the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Hydro Green Energy, LLC
    Inventor: Wayne F. Krouse
  • Patent number: 8845231
    Abstract: The invention concerns a run-of-river power plant with the following components or features: at least one module or several stand-alone modules, which are arranged close to one another in the flow direction, respectively comprising at least one energy unit; each energy unit comprises a water turbine and a generator; every module includes an upstream retaining wall as well as a downstream bearing wall; an intermediate space is situated between both walls; a rake, which extends between the upper edge of the retaining wall and the upper edge of the bearing wall and covers the intermediate space; a suction channel is connected to the energy unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Voith Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Benjamin Holstein, Jorg Lochschmidt, Helmut Bronowski
  • Patent number: 8648487
    Abstract: A shaft power plant for energy conversion of a discharge between a headwater and a tailwater, comprising a vertical shaft, the top of which forms an inflow plane which is parallel to the bed and extends below the headwater water level, wherein the shaft is open toward the top and is closed by a base at its bottom end, a unit composed of a turbine and an electrical machine, wherein the unit is arranged entirely under water in the shaft and wherein the turbine is arranged for water to pass through horizontally, and an outflow, which is connected to the turbine, represents a closed flow channel and leads through a through-passage in the shaft to the tailwater, wherein a horizontal first cross-sectional area of the shaft is much larger than a vertical second cross-sectional area taken up by the turbine runner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Technische Universität München
    Inventors: Peter Rutschmann, Albert Sepp
  • Patent number: 8631638
    Abstract: A method, system and apparatus are provided that provide water to a heat engine via a dammed water source. The water may be tapped for cooling of and/or injection into a heat engine. Further, steam from operation of the heat engine and/or directing exhaust gases of a heat engine into a water flow in an exit channel may be collected and harnessed for power generation in a steam-driven power generator, for industrial heating purposes and other industrial uses, and/or for cooling and subsequent use as potentially more pure water. Additionally, water mist may be sprayed into the exhaust gases for sound suppression purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventor: Rene Carlos
  • Publication number: 20130266378
    Abstract: Dams are a useful source of energy. An embodiment of a dam according to the present invention includes precast segments configured to be coupled together to form a dam optionally used to generate energy. An embodiment includes encasing an existing dam structure using interconnected precast segments. An underpinning system may penetrate the existing dam structure and be employed to assist in maintaining position of the dam or segmental components. A further embodiment includes encasing a main energy generation component using interconnected precast segments formed from a composite material including electrically conducting fibers, an electric circuit configured to measure and report the electrical resistance using a transmitter or transceiver to a dam stress/strain monitoring server. The electrical circuit may be powered directly or indirectly by available power supplied by the main energy generation component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventor: William L. French, SR.
  • Patent number: 8414223
    Abstract: Dams are a useful source of energy. An embodiment of a dam according to the present invention includes precast segments configured to be coupled together to form a dam optionally used to generate energy. An embodiment includes a spillway extender to prevent upstream or downstream erosion of a riverbed at the dam. An underpinning system may be employed to assist in maintaining position of the dam or segmental components. Solar panel energy generation systems and battery storage may be associated with the segmental dam to store energy and, optionally, produce auxiliary power for subsystems associated with the dam, such as for supporting automated spillway control gate level control or automated gearing system control to control a gear ratio associated with rotating or other moving parts used to convert kinetic energy of water into electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: French Development Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: William L. French, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8333534
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for improved power generation through movement of water retrofitting existing hydroelectric dams with draft tube inserts and tailrace walls to increase water velocity for production of power using hydrokinetic turbines installed in the tailrace. By initial design or by draft tube inserts and tailrace walls, increased and streamlined water flow leads to higher efficiencies of the hydrokinetic turbine, thus more efficiently converting available kinetic energy of the water into usable energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Hydro Green Energy, LLC
    Inventor: Wayne F Krouse
  • Publication number: 20120282030
    Abstract: A low head power generating system is disclosed including a wall pivotably attachable to a structure for moving between a generally upright position and a generally flat position. In the upright position, the structure or wall impounds water, and has a power generating cell connected to the wall, which rotates by movement of water there-through and is operably connectable to a generator for generating power. A support braces the wall in the upright position. The support is adjustable with a first end connected to the wall and a second end extended against a structure, and can be an inflatable bladder, a pressurized piston or other mechanism to move the wall. The cell can be mounted on the surface of the wall or integrated within the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Wayne F. Krouse
  • Publication number: 20120237298
    Abstract: Disclosed is a double wall dam with a reservoir between the walls with opening doors mounted on the front wall to allow oncoming waves to open the doors and fill the reservoir. A hole with a turbine and generator is mounted in the bottom of the front wall to allow the water in the reservoir to flow out and spin the turbine and generator to create electricity. The dam can collect the entire wave and stack the water in a column that can be higher than the wave. This dam can produce many times the power than other over the top wave energy converters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventor: GLEN EDWARD COOK
  • Patent number: 8262315
    Abstract: The invention relates to hydroelectric generating plants which may be prefabricated and subsequently exchanged for preexisting radial water control gates. The hydroelectric generating plant disclosed herein may be particularly advantageous for hydroelectric development of projects with preexisting submergible radial gates. Various configurations are disclosed which maximize generating capacity, hydraulic efficiency, and flood flow capacity, while minimizing weight and cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Henry Karl Obermeyer
  • Patent number: 8182674
    Abstract: The device (100) serves to separate solid particles from the water of a flow (E) feeding a hydraulic machine of the turbine, pump, or turbine-pump type. The device has flow inlet and outlet zones (104, 105) for the flow that are spaced apart along an advance axis (X100) of flow advance through the device (100). The device (100) comprises a plurality of ducts (110) placed in parallel, each having a mouth and a downstream end between the inlet zone (104) and the outlet zone (105). In section perpendicular to the advance axis (X100), each duct presents a section in the form of a spiral with a radius of curvature that increases from the mouth towards the downstream end or from the downstream end towards the mouth, with each duct (110) presenting a thickness measured in a generally radial direction relative to the advance axis that is less than 10% of the width (l110) of said duct, measured parallel to said axis (X100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: ALSTOM Hydro France
    Inventor: Serge Prigent
  • Publication number: 20120087733
    Abstract: Dams are a useful source of energy. An embodiment of a dam according to the present invention includes precast segments configured to be coupled together to form a dam optionally used to generate energy. An embodiment includes a spillway extender to prevent upstream or downstream erosion of a riverbed at the dam. An underpinning system may be employed to assist in maintaining position of the dam or segmental components. Solar panel energy generation systems and battery storage may be associated with the segmental dam to store energy and, optionally, produce auxiliary power for subsystems associated with the dam, such as for supporting automated spillway control gate level control or automated gearing system control to control a gear ratio associated with rotating or other moving parts used to convert kinetic energy of water into electrical energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: French Development Enterprises
    Inventor: William L. French, SR.
  • Patent number: 8128318
    Abstract: Tide change apparatus and methodology for converting tidal energy into usable mechanical and electrical energy using wedge-hinge assemblies. Electricity is generated by transfer of mechanical energy from both incoming and outgoing tidewaters to an electrical generator. A pair of wedge-hinge assemblies mounted atop semi-submersible barges to enable water to alternately flow into and out of a retention pond relative to a corresponding main body of water in accordance with natural tidal flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Clifton Gerard Anderson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8125096
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventors: Salvatore Shifrin, Joseph Shifrin
  • Patent number: 8093743
    Abstract: A plant for producing electrical power from the movement of waves. An offshore dam has a fixed generally vertical surface which is located in open water having wave movement and located vertically at the water surface. A submerged part which is fixed relative to the dam has an opening below the waves and in close proximity to the plane of the vertical surface to receive sea water. A force exerting structure such as a hydraulic pump or a thrust arrangement receives the water through the opening and forces that water through a one-way valve beyond which it is led to a turbine for producing electric power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Enrico Bozano
  • Patent number: 8011854
    Abstract: An improved fish passage apparatus is combined with hydroelectric power generation to facilitate migration of fish between water bodies of different heights with minimal injury or trauma to fish. It may also be optimized for power generation when fish are not moving through it. The fish passage apparatus comprises a connecting tube providing fluid communication between upper and lower water bodies, an upper valve in the connecting tube adapted to control flow of water to or from an upper water body, a lower valve in the connecting tube adapted to control flow of water to or from a lower water body, and a working tube opening into the connecting tube between the upper and lower valves a working portion of which extends functionally vertical to above a water level of the upper body of water and to below a water level of the lower body and is vented at its top such that water can flow freely in and out of the working portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventor: Kenneth T Millard
  • Patent number: 7887258
    Abstract: A dam bypass apparatus including a floating inlet and a flexible conduit having a discharge opening adjacent to a dam water intake. The inlet can be laterally offset from the discharge opening, and can include screens to exclude debris from the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Mark Rubbert
  • Patent number: 7837411
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for improved power generation through movement of water retrofitting existing hydroelectric dams with draft tube inserts and tailrace walls to increase water velocity for production of power using hydrokinetic turbines installed in the tailrace. By initial design or by draft tube inserts and tailrace walls, increased and streamlined water flow leads to higher efficiencies of the hydrokinetic turbine, thus more efficiently converting available kinetic energy of the water into usable energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Inventor: Wayne F. Krouse
  • Patent number: 7785037
    Abstract: A hydroelectric system comprising a support member, a rotational torque converter, a drive member being disposed at one end of a support arm, a water driven mechanism in rotational communication with the drive member, wherein the support arm can be pivotally adjusted by a retraction mechanism are disclosed. A spillway deflector comprising a spillway deflector wedge, a deflector anchor, and a flat portion extending between the deflector anchor and the deflector wedge are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventors: Gary Lederer, Roseann Lederer
  • Patent number: 7478974
    Abstract: Normally hydroelectric dam powerhouses use river flow once before discharging it as turbulent tailwater, ineffective to spin turbines. The present invention uses tapered channels to confine and constrict turbulent tailwater into laminar flow that drives turbines both submersible and floatable utilizing the same water three times concurrently to generate new electricity. Channels originate adjacent to draft tube outlets, constrict in the downstream direction to create narrow necks where turbine/generators benefit from debris free, increased velocity and laminar flows to generate electricity. Hydroelectricity uses zero fuel, creates zero waste and has zero carbon dioxide emissions. Structures are uncomplicated, construction is within project boundaries minimizing environmental impacts and speeding projects coming online. New facilities are protected by existing dam security. Hydroelectricity replaces less dependable renewable energy systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Inventor: William Lowell Kelly
  • Publication number: 20080085158
    Abstract: This patent application describes a method to generate a load bearing repetitive cycle, which in an efficient implementation can provide a scaleable power source for all levels of human society. Only gravity, and construction materials, are necessary for a viable implementation. No additional fuel source is required for its operation. The potentials of the system can best be understood, by imagining the continuous falling of multiple objects weighing anywhere from a few oz to tons. These weights are impacting a paddle wheel, or forcing their way through strong magnetic fields. The energy generating potentials are incredible. The Trick Dam drops a rotor by falling, and then floats the same rotor up to fall again. Thereby concentrating the gravitational potential of a rotor. A self-perpetuating two-step cycle is the result. The momentum of each step is optimized via a manipulation of the rotor's weight, lighter for flotation, and heavier for fall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2006
    Publication date: April 10, 2008
    Inventor: Gary Allen Henderson
  • Patent number: 7275891
    Abstract: The apparatus may include a space frame on which is mounted at least one hydrofoil for generating positive or negative lift. The frame is attachable to underwater equipment such as a turbine. The hydrofoils are adapted to produce negative lift when a flow of liquid passes over them and so in use cause the apparatus and attached equipment to sink to the seabed. The flow of water over the hydrofoils continue to produce negative life and so maintain the apparatus on the seabed. In certain embodiments, the hydrofoils can typically be set to a passive configuration in which they flip over when the current flow changes direction. Furthermore, the hydrofoils are selectively rotatable to provide an angle of attack such that they may be adapted to provide positive lift when it is necessary to remove the apparatus from the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Robert Gordon University
    Inventors: Alan Owen, Ian Gordon Bryden
  • Patent number: 7061135
    Abstract: Device and process generating electrical power from flowing medium. Device includes turbine generator units connected to form module(s), and at least two fixed-position structures arranged to form a waterway. Module(s) are arranged between the fixed-position structures to be raised and lowered. In this way, high water level is produced upstream of the at least one module and low water level is produced downstream of module(s). An auxiliary apparatus provided on each fixed-position structure extends above upper edges of fixed-position structures, and a lifting device is arranged to lift the module(s) that are guided, at least partially, by the at least one auxiliary apparatus. In a lifting procedure, module(s) are raised above the upper edges of the fixed-position structures. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: VA Tech Hydro GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Andreas Rammler, Volker Kienberger, Peter Priegl
  • Patent number: 7012341
    Abstract: In order to obtain an electric power generator equipment capable of efficiently generating electric power and capable of reducing cost, without a water bath and constructive maximum height, the electric power generator equipment comprises a floating member for floating on a water surface, a power generator installed on an upper surface of the floating member, a cage suspended from a lower end of the floating member and held to a water bottom, a pair of floating bodies positioned in the cage which is separated, a wire rope whose both ends are fixed to the cage, and an air filling-up apparatus for filling up air to each of the floating bodies. The wire rope is winded to a pulley installed an end portion of each floating body and is winded to a pulley installed on the power generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Inventor: Hideo Matsubara
  • Patent number: 6930407
    Abstract: Method for producing a device for obtaining electrical energy from hydropower and a method for modifying a dam, in which, at a remote production site, at least two turbine-generating units, comprising a turbine and a generator connected to it, are produced, at a remote production site at least two turbine-generator units are connected to one another to form at least one module including at least two turbine-generator units. The at least one module is transported from the production site over a distance to the site of use by a transport, and, at the site of use, the at least one module is lifted off the transport by a lifting fixture and is moved into a position which is provided for its operation. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: VA Tech Hydro GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Heinz Panholzer
  • Publication number: 20040247393
    Abstract: Method of regulating a water level of a dam installation having a plurality of turbine generator units arranged to generate electrical power, wherein at least some of the plurality of turbine generator units are arranged at least one of one above another and one beside another so as to form at least one turbine generator module. The method includes regulating, at least to some extent, the water level to a predefinable set point by starting or stopping at least one of the plurality of turbine generator units and adjusting, in discrete steps, a quantity of water which can flow through the dam installation, wherein a discrete step is defined by a quantity of water which can flow through a defined number of turbine generator units. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Applicant: VA TECH HYDRO GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Gunther Hess, Heinz Panholzer
  • Patent number: 6641327
    Abstract: A water turbine arrangement employs a generator enclosed in a cylindrical casing. A turbine is arranged directly on the generator shaft outside the casing. The casing is arranged to a flow conduit by a support structure which has a tubular support shaft arranged to carry the cylindrical casing in the flow conduit. The cylindrical casing and the tubular support shaft and the turbine are removable from the flow conduit as a single structure through an installation hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Assignee: ABB Oy
    Inventors: Tommi Lassila, Risto Pakaste
  • Patent number: 6575662
    Abstract: A water quality management system and method that controls the exchange of water between two bodies of water (e.g., estuary and ocean) separated by at least one land barrier. The system consists of a series of water exchange units that are disposed in the estuary and knowledge-linked into a water quality management system that is remotely controlled from a central location. Each water exchange unit may comprise a conduit extending through the land barrier having a terminal end on the ocean side and a terminal end on the estuary side. The exchange of water between the ocean and estuary through the conduit may be effected using reversible pumps connected to the terminal end of the conduit on the estuary side. The pumps are preferably controlled from a remote location based on feed back data received from sensors located both in the estuary and ocean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Gannett Fleming, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce J. French
  • Patent number: 6554535
    Abstract: A system for protecting a coastal land from a rise of the surface of the sea, wherein offshore dams and caissons containing pump-turbines are provided in such a manner that the caissons and dams extend in parallel with the coastline of the land. Partition dams are provided so as to connect the offshore dams and the coastline together to make ponds. The water level of each pond is kept lower than a preset level, which is several meters lower than an average level of the surface of the ocean, by an operation of the pump-turbines and avoiding not only the submergence of the coastal land due to the rise in the sea level caused by global warming, but also expanding the area of offshore land.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: The Earth Science Laboratory Corp.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Kinno
  • Publication number: 20030039512
    Abstract: A method of siphoning water over dams by means of a siphon. The siphon is started by closing both ends, by means of a ball valve, gate valves, check valves or other means to seal off the ends.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2001
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: James N. Bethune
  • Patent number: 6283673
    Abstract: A system for protecting a coastal land from a rise of the surface of the sea, wherein offshore dams and caissons containing pump-turbines are provided in such a manner that the caissons and dams extend in parallel with the coastline of the land. Partition dams are provided so as to connect the offshore dams and the coastline together to make ponds. The water level of each pond is kept lower than a preset level, which is several meters lower than an average level of the surface of the ocean, by an operation of the pump-turbines and avoiding not only the submergence of the coastal land due to the rise in the sea level caused by global warming, but also expanding the area of offshore land.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: The Earth Science Laboratory Corp.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Kinno
  • Patent number: 6281597
    Abstract: A hydroelectric power installation including a pre-existing gated spillway with upstream bulkhead slots and bulkhead service crane and hydroelectric generating modules configured to fit the existing upstream bulkhead slots. Each module including a plurality of turbines, generators, and associated switchgear. The installation may include a trash rake operated on the pre-existing bulkhead service craneway. The hydroelectric installation is configured to meet all of the original navigation project design criteria including generating modules that can be raised above flood water as high as the associated radial gates and that are able to be safely lowered in front of a failed radial gate to serve as the emergency bulkhead the slots for which the modules exclusively occupy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Assignees: Syndicated Technologies, LLC., VA Tech Hydro GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Henry K. Obermeyer, Thomas Dum, Wolfgang Sambs
  • Patent number: 6146096
    Abstract: The invention concerns a system (1) of bulb turbines (2), in which each bulb turbine (2) comprises a generator located in an essentially cylindrical area (4) of a turbine housing and a turbine wheel coupled to the generator and mounted in such a way that it can rotate (7), a suction pipe (13) being attached to each bulb turbine. Several bulb turbines (2) are coupled with one another in a field-like or matrix-like order both in an essentially horizontal position side by side as well as stacked in a vertical position or are stored in at least one single common support (8). In said system, several bulb turbines are stored in one common support (8) and releasably connected to the corresponding suction pipes (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: VA Tech Voest MCE GmbH & Co
    Inventor: Stefan Winkler
  • Patent number: 5882143
    Abstract: A low head hydroelectric system for maximizing electrical power generation is disclosed. The hydroelectric system includes a support structure having a rail member adapted to be positioned above a flowing body of water adjacent a low head dam wall. An actuator is mounted to a transfer carriage which is supported for movement along the rail member. When actuated, the actuator moves an arm linearly in a vertical direction. The arm rotatably supports a water wheel including a plurality of vanes for contacting the flowing water. A generator is supported by the arm and is operably connected to the water wheel such that electricity is generated as the water wheel is caused to rotate from impact by the flowing water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventor: Fred Elmore Williams, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5800077
    Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring fouling of a trash rack for a hydroelectric power generation facility. The trash rack monitoring system includes sensors for detecting head upstream and downstream of a trash rack as well as the flow through an inlet conduit downstream of the rack. The head and flow values are used to generate a trash rack loss coefficient that reflects actual losses across the trash rack independent of flow rate. A corresponding coefficient may be calculated when the rack is clean and used as a reference value for determining the additional loss across the rack due to fouling. The loss value may be converted to an economic loss value. The coefficient and economic loss values may be displayed on an operator interface and may serve as the basis for an alarm indicating the need to clean the rack or the potential for rack failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Tennessee Valley Authority
    Inventor: Patrick March
  • Patent number: 5754446
    Abstract: A method and system for optimizing performance of a Kaplan turbine power generating unit are provided wherein an optimal "N-dimensional" virtual cam is populated with gate and blade positional settings producing maximum power output for a set of N operating parameters. The preferred parameters include head, flow, power generation level, physical situation of the unit, operating state of neighboring units, trash rack loss and a parameter indicative of cavitation (such as relative submersion level). When the system detects a unique set of operating conditions for which optimization is needed, an iterative optimization search is performed for the best gate and blade positional settings, which are then saved in memory (populating the cam matrix) for subsequent use when the same operating conditions are encountered. The optimal matrix divides parameters having ranges into range segments and treats other parameters as having discrete states.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Assignee: Voith Hydro, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard K. Fisher, Jr., Richard A. Johnson, Ronald E. Deitz
  • Patent number: 4998846
    Abstract: Bottom discharge works of a concrete dam comprise a bottom water conduit provided within the dam body and a block attached thereto at the tail-water end. In the lower portion of the attached block, there are provided a turbine chamber with a hydroelectric unit and a draught tube, while the upper portion of the attached block represents a water discharge chute. An opening with a gate is provided in the ceiling of the turbine chamber, at its inlet from the bottom water conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Inventors: Jury I. Evstratov, Viktor V. Kononov, Oleg L. Sandigursky, Mikhail T. Nerovny, Sergei V. Larionov, Oleg I. Evstratov
  • Patent number: 4941771
    Abstract: A hydroelectric system is disclosed which is designed to run intermittently to compensate for a low flow source. A float system is employed to control the operating points of the turbine by opening an inlet valve at one predetermined pond level and closing the inlet valve at a lower predetermined level. A novel entrance to the turbine inlet pipe is also disclosed which eliminates problem turbulence when the pond level is near the lower predetermined limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1990
    Inventor: Robert Perper
  • Patent number: 4772157
    Abstract: A control apparatus responsive to the difference between liquid levels, and a method of controlling a liquid flow regulator by use of the apparatus is disclosed. The control apparatus may comprise a transducer responsive to the back-pressure maintained in a bubbler system including a pair of interconnected gas bubblers, one positioned upstream and one downstream of a flow restriction, such as a trash screen protecting the inlet to a hydroelectric turbine. The mouth of the downstream bubbler is positioned at a pre-selected elevation below that of the mouth of the upstream bubbler so that the pressure head of water at the mouth of the upstream bubbler sets the system back-pressure. When the downstream water level drops sufficiently below that of the upstream water level, the reduced water pressure head at the mouth of the downstream bubbler sets the system back-pressure. A flow regulator, such as a turbine wicket gate, is operated in response to the control apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1988
    Inventor: Henry K. Obermeyer
  • Patent number: 4771699
    Abstract: A device for transport of a cable in vertical shafts, in which the cable is attached to a number of sliding means at regular intervals and arranged to slide or roll along a vertical guiding rail. The sliding means are also rigidly attached to a lifting wire at regular intervals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1988
    Assignee: ITT Flygt AB
    Inventor: Guido Kaiserfeldt
  • Patent number: 4746244
    Abstract: A hydroelectric power generating plant includes separate barges upstream and downstream of a dam, and a siphoning penstock attached to and spanning between the barges to enable fluid communication over the dam and to appropriate power generating equipment. In constructing the power generating plant, the barges and penstock are constructed remotely at a convenient manufacturing facility and either floated to the dam site over water, or transporated to the dam site over land. At the dam site the barges are positioned so as to span the dam, and moored in position, and the siphoning penstock is connected to and between the barges using trunnion supports which enable respective pivotal movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1988
    Assignee: Williams and Broome, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Broome
  • Patent number: 4573827
    Abstract: A hydraulic turbine installation is disclosed for a site comprising a dam having a floor and opposing sidewalls defining a spillway. The installation comprises a frame member which slideably engages the spillway floor on a downstream side of the dam. The frame member is slideable transverse to a direction of water flow through the spillway. A hydraulic turbine and connected generator are carried by the frame member. The frame member is provided with an intake such that when the frame member is in a first position within the spillway, water flow through the spillway is directed through the turbine runner. The frame member is slideable to a second position with the frame member out of the spillway and water flow through the spillway uninterrupted. Power actuated means such as hydraulic servomotors are provided for sliding the frame member between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1986
    Assignee: Allis-Chalmers Corporation
    Inventor: Howard A. Mayo, Jr.