Float Supported Or Buoyant Runner Patents (Class 415/7)
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Patent number: 8500321Abstract: A collapsible water circulation system for relatively small, enclosed tanks such as used by municipalities, fire districts, and industries. The system in its collapsed configuration is designed to fit through the often small access opening in the tank and then to automatically expand to its extended operating configuration, all without the need for any personnel to enter the tank. The system includes a draft tube extending downwardly from a distribution dish to an inlet anchored on the floor of the tank. The system also includes at least three, elongated flotation arms that can be deployed to extend substantially horizontally and outwardly of the dish. An impeller within the dish is operated to draw water up from the anchored inlet through the draft tube to the dish. The water subsequently passes upwardly through the dish over its upper lip and substantially radially outwardly of it.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2010Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Medora Environmental, Inc.Inventors: Corey M. Simnioniw, Gary A. Kudrna, Willard R. Tormaschy, Jonathan L. Zent, Joel J. Bleth
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Patent number: 8475113Abstract: A hydroelectric power device equipped with a casing member that has a channel that passes through from an opening on the water entry side towards an opening on the water discharge side, a rotor having a plurality of blades that are integrally fixed respective to the rotating shaft and are disposed inside the channel of the casing member, and a tapered portion, that is provided on the opening on the water entry side of the casing, and that is formed such that the cross-sectional area of the tapered portion is gradually decreased towards the downstream side.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2008Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Seabell International Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yuji Unno
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Patent number: 8471399Abstract: The present invention concerns a floating wind power apparatus with a floating unit and at least three rotors supported in rotor housings, placed on separate towers with a longitudinal central axis. The towers are attached in the floating unit and the rotor housing, and the floating unit may yaw to direct the rotors in relation to the wind. At least one rotor is a downwind rotor, and at least one rotor is an upwind rotor. The towers are placed at an inclined angle in relation to the rotors.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2008Date of Patent: June 25, 2013Assignee: Windsea ASInventor: Marc Lefranc
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Patent number: 8453443Abstract: An engine for converting thermal energy to kinetic energy is provided. The engine includes a body of fluid having a first zone and a second zone, a thermal energy source thermally connected to the first zone for providing thermal energy thereto, and a thermal energy sink thermally connected to the second zone for removing thermal energy therefrom such that the first zone has a temperature greater than the second zone. The engine further includes a movable loop, which extends between the first zone and the second zone, and a plurality of containers which are positioned in the body of fluid and attached to the loop such that the loop and the containers move conjointly between the first zone and the second zone. Each of the containers expands to a first volume when it is in one of the first and second zones, and contracts to a second volume when it is in the other one of the first and second zones.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2010Date of Patent: June 4, 2013Inventor: Seong Woong Kim
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Patent number: 8393850Abstract: A wind turbine has an impeller surrounded by a turbine shroud and/or an ejector shroud, wherein the turbine shroud and/or the ejector shroud include inflatable portions and/or flexible inflatable portions. In some embodiments, the turbine shroud and/or the ejector shroud include internal rib members whose shape or length can be changed to alter the characteristics of the wind turbine.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2009Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: FloDesign Wind Turbine Corp.Inventors: Michael J. Werle, William Scott Keeley, Thomas J. Kennedy, III, Walter M. Presz, Jr.
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Patent number: 8379252Abstract: An information processing apparatus configured to generate a print job to execute bookbinding printing is provided. The information processing apparatus includes an identifying unit configured to identify a position of a pre-printed sheet where a page to be arranged on a background image of the pre-printed sheet is printed at the time of execution of the bookbinding printing, a selecting unit configured to select the pre-printed sheet to be used in the bookbinding printing from a plurality of different pre-printed sheets set in the printer so that data indicating content of the page to be arranged on the background image of the pre-printed sheet is printed at the position identified by the identifying unit, and a generating unit configured to generate the print job so that the printer prints the data using the pre-printed sheet selected by the selecting unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2009Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kinya Honda
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Patent number: 8310078Abstract: A tangential turbine is adapted for receiving kinetic energy from a flowing fluid and comprises a supporting shroud, a rotating runner having a hub and a plurality of radial blades spaced apart on the hub, and a means for controlling the receiving. In first embodiment the controlling means comprises a plurality of springs each connected with its ends turningly about a connecting axis being between and within the hub and the blade and between limit stops to the hub and fixedly to the blade turnable about the axis to a non-working tangential position. In second embodiment the controlling means comprises the shroud shaped into a caisson and provided with turnable aprons and capable of accommodating the runner in the air and controlling the insertion of the blades into the flow below the shroud.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2010Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Inventors: Vladimir Anatol Shreider, Natalia Shreider
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Patent number: 8308422Abstract: In a hydroelectric turbine having a rotor disposed within a stator housing, the rotor having an annular outer rim received by a channel in the stator housing, the improvement comprising a buoyant rotor, the rotor preferably having buoyancy chambers disposed within the rotor. The buoyancy chambers may be disposed within the annular outer rim, the blades or an annular inner rim, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the buoyancy chambers are filled with a material having a specific gravity of one or less, and most preferably the filler material is a polymer foam that adds rigidity to the rotor.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2007Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: OpenHydro Group LimitedInventor: Herbert Williams
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Publication number: 20120257955Abstract: The invention is directed to a single moored offshore marine turbine assembly having a central control vessel which includes a main vessel tethered to a control buoy. The main vessel having a first cap, a corresponding second cap and a tubular shell positioned between both the first cap and second cap. The tubular shell contains one or more vertical partitions to assist in ballasting. The control buoy includes a compressor and an air conduit which forces air into the main vessel through a manifold. A hollow suction caisson affixes the central control vessel to the ocean floor. A taut line mooring secures the suction caisson to the main vessel. Electricity is generated via a turbine shroud assembly having a conical shroud and a hydro-turbine. By attaching a plurality of turbine shroud assemblies in series via cables, a horizontal turbine array is formed resulting in a simple, economical and safe layout.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 11, 2012Publication date: October 11, 2012Inventor: Thomas Rooney
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Patent number: 8272831Abstract: A power generating apparatus suitable for use in extracting energy from the movement of water, in particular tidal movement, is disclosed. The apparatus includes an elongate, generally circular in cross section, buoyancy vessel (1), having depending from its underside on a mounting means, rotatable rotor blades (2). The rotor blades are connected to a power generating means whereby in use of the apparatus movement of water across the rotor blasé, drives them so as to generate power in the power generating means.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Scotrenewables (Marine Power) Ltd.Inventor: Barry Johnston
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Publication number: 20120230811Abstract: The invention comprised a vertical-axis rotor system features a large flywheel assembly having a rim assembly 73, stationary drive assemblies 74, wind vane members 58, sail members 98 all powers the rotor to speed of 20 rpm; a vertical-axis spindle member 66 secured by means at least on floor 61 of the enclosure system such as a building 50; said flywheel comprises plurality of lateral lever members 69 spoke members 71 respectively attached laterally to spindle member 66 and suspended respectively by stay member 70, 72 into a state of equilibrium against gravity; plurality of generator set members 76 are provided mounted to said floors each with respective drive means connected to said spindle—unitary into a generation system with features to produced large-scale cost effective and reliable renewable electricity, environmentally friendly, unitary modular, easily upgradable and buildable closer to the end consumers.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 13, 2010Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventor: Carmelito B. Tianchon
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Patent number: 8226292Abstract: A submersible, circulation system for small and shallow bodies of water such as a small pond. The system includes a driving unit with a tubular shell member and a base member and has a submersed motor and pump supported therein. The shell member extends along and about a vertical axis and has upper and lower openings with the base member spaced below and extending across the lower opening to create inlets therebetween. The pump draws water horizontally through the inlets into the unit where a relatively small first portion of the incoming water enters the pump and is driven downwardly and out upwardly directed discharge nozzles. The discharged flow passes through the remaining portion of the incoming flow to induce the larger, remaining portion to move upwardly with it toward the pond surface in a non-turbulent manner to raise the pond surface into a slightly convex mound.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2009Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Medora Environmental, Inc.Inventors: Douglas P. Walter, Willard R. Tormaschy, Joel J. Bleth, Corey M. Simnioniw, Allan V. Tuhy, Gary A. Kudrna, Jonathan L. Zent
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Patent number: 8206113Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for gradually converting marine wave energy into electricity. The energy reserve provided by wind power holds enough energy for the needs of the entire mankind. The invention provides an efficient means of putting this energy reserve to practical use. Mounted on a rotating power shaft is a pair of form parts, the convex and concave shape, especially the round-pointed open V-shape of which reverses its orientation by 180 degrees, i.e. turns from convex to concave, whenever the power shaft makes a rotation of 180 degrees. The circular motion of water occurring in a wave drives such a turbine effectively while the wave dies out. The pair of convex and concave form parts extends helically around the power shaft, whereby water currents in all directions, which come to contact with the pair of form parts, produce a rotative moment.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2006Date of Patent: June 26, 2012Inventors: Seppo Ryynänen, Mikko Ryynänen
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Patent number: 8197180Abstract: The specification and drawings describe machines and methods that transform the kinetic energy of moving bodies of fluid into useful work. Specifically, embodiments of the invention may be used to generate electricity. In preferred embodiments a buoyant or semi-buoyant propeller assembly interfaces with a flowing body of water to capture power for electricity generation or any other work project.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2011Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Inventor: Dickie L. Lamp
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Patent number: 8197208Abstract: A floating underwater support structure is disclosed. The underwater support structure includes a joint capable of rotation and angular movement along two or three axes coupled to a truss. The truss is capable of sustaining loads in tension, compression, and bending, and comprises one or more elongate, rigid members. The elongate, rigid members are capable of sustaining loads in at least tension and compression. A buoyant member positioned between or around the members of the truss at a predetermined distance below the water provides a buoyant force that typically exceeds the weight of the entire structure. In deeper water, cross bracing may be provided between the members of the truss, and in particularly deep water, a single tendon may connect between the joint, typically anchored to the floor of the body of water, and the truss. The support structure may be used to support wind turbines and other structures.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2010Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Clear Path Energy, LLCInventors: William G. Sharples, Christopher H. Tracy
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Patent number: 8177480Abstract: The invention provides a system for producing electricity from the channel, river, ocean or tidal water currents and wind. Each system module contains a vertical axis fluid driven turbine positioned in a protecting housing. The turbine employs a plurality of rotating paddles with mutually perpendicularly oriented asymmetric blades that are non-rotatably fixed by their leading edges to the poles at both ends. The high efficiency of the turbine comes from creating maximum drug force by vertically oriented blades on the power generating side and practically zero frictional force produced by blades on the resting side of the turbine.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Inventor: Edouard Petrounevitch
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Patent number: 8171729Abstract: A mechanical output generating assembly including housing having a fluid filled interior and defining a passageway through which travels a buoyant article. A reload mechanism is secured to the housing for successively introducing a plurality of buoyant article into a bottom feed location associated with the housing. The buoyant articles exert a lift generating force to drive a power take off component incorporated into the housing. A re-supply mechanism is provided for transferring buoyant articles from an upper exit location of the housing to the reload mechanism for subsequent re-introduction into the housing.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2009Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Inventor: Robert E. O'Briant
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Patent number: 8152441Abstract: A reengineered undershot waterwheel adapted to capture unutilized hydrokinetic energy is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, the blades, partitions, and shafts of the waterwheel are composed of engineered plastics and composites for improved operation and longevity. In other embodiments, the waterwheel may be fixed, floating, partially or fully submerged, mounted vertically or horizontally, and will operate in deep and shallow flowing water sources.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Inventor: Ray Hofmann
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Patent number: 8148840Abstract: An engine for reducing the temperature at the surface of a body of water during a storm includes at least one floatation member for supporting the engine, an elongate tube mounted on the floatation member configured to receive a stream of air therethrough, the elongate tube having first and second ends, a constricted center section therebetween and means for distributing water into the tube adjacent the constricted center section, a wind turbine having at least one rotor, a differential and a shaft connecting the rotor to the differential, a pump operatively connected to the wind turbine and extending into the body of water to a depth where the temperature of the water is less the water temperature at the surface and wherein water from beneath the surface of the body of water is pumped into the manifold and distributed into the elongate tube to cool the stream of air.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2008Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Inventor: Randall Gradle
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Patent number: 8123457Abstract: A system for improved power generation through movement of water having a turbine positioned in a moving body of water to receive kinetic energy, a blocking fitting, attachment or wall on the upper surface of the turbine to creates head potential in a moving body of water; an energy producing cell that is driven by said head potential. The energy producing cells are positioned to receive potential energy in addition to the kinetic energy from the head effect converting said energy combination or contribution by the movement of water through the cell. The system turbine may be fitted with a member positioned circumferentially about the housing for inducing a pressure drop across the turbine. The member may be a rotating blade, cantilevered duct, circumferential flange, radial eductor, and air tube for injection of ambient air into said water source.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Hydro Green Energy, LLCInventor: Wayne F. Krouse
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Patent number: 8109711Abstract: A wind turbine energy conversion device that can take advantage of the higher speed and more persistent winds at higher altitudes is hereinafter disclosed. The wind turbine energy conversion device includes an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) connected to one end of a tether (which may include multiple shorter tethers), the other end being connected to a terrestrial anchorage point. The UAV flies at altitudes where wind speeds can reach 40 mph or higher. The UAV comprises a flying wing with one or more trailing wind power turbines and flies airborne maneuvers designed to increase relative wind speed up to about four times the true wind speed.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2009Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Eric Blumer, John Thurston, Paul Wingett, Louie Timothy Gaines, Yogendra Yogi Sheoran
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Patent number: 8102068Abstract: A buoyant hydro turbine(31) for capturing and utilizing energy in the currents of flowing water. A driven component(33) produces electricity or other energy is coupled to and supported by a buoyant rotor(64), increasing efficiency and eliminating the need for an independent supporting structure. Tethered in flowing water, the current(71) rotates the rotors(32) and transfers rotatable energy to the central driven component(33) where electricity or other mechanical work is produced. A number of embodiments are adapted for optimizing and maintaining positioning in a stream of moving water. Additional embodiments optimizing the efficiency and effectiveness of the turbine in capturing and utilizing the current's kinetic energy as well as hydrostatic pressure.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Inventor: Brent Lee Gutekunst
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Patent number: 8096763Abstract: A method for converting kinetic energy in horizontal currents of naturally occurring fluids above ground into mechanical energy. A circulating element is guided in a closed cycle and is arranged substantially in a plane parallel to the ground. The circulating element has two lengthwise adjustable traction ropes/chains fastened in two opposite positions. The ropes/chains have buoyancy elements at their free ends. The buoyancy elements have cross-sections for the current to impact. In an embodiment, a traction rope/chain fixed to a section of the circulating element facing the horizontal current is adjusted to be longer than the traction rope/chain fixed to a section of the circulating element facing away from horizontal current.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2007Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: NTS Energie- und Transportsysteme GmbHInventor: Uwe Ahrens
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Patent number: 8061963Abstract: A wind turbine system includes a kite positioned upstream to a turbine to direct wind to the turbine, thereby increasing revolutions per minutes and power output of the turbine.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2009Date of Patent: November 22, 2011Inventor: Franklin F K Chen
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Patent number: 8011642Abstract: A cruising aerator includes a raft, a motor mounted on the raft, a shaft driven by the motor, a first impeller mounted on the shaft, a second impeller mounted on the shaft, and a common chamber. The cruising aerator further includes a sequential controller connected to the motor for controlling the motor to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise. The motor, the shaft and impellers are installed inside of the common chamber. The common chamber has a common inlet disposed under a water surface. A first outlet and a second outlet of the common chamber are arranged to face in opposite directions. The first impeller and second impeller are assembled to have opposite normal rotating directions to each other according to a rotating direction of the motor.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2009Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Inventors: Ming-Chin Tsai, Mei-Ling Chen
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Publication number: 20110200425Abstract: A method of deploying offshore wind turbine assemblies includes mounting a wind turbine assembly horizontally on a vessel and transporting the wind turbine assembly to an offshore site. The wind turbine assembly is raised to a vertical condition at the site and attached to anchor weights. Blades are attached to the turbine head after the wind turbine assembly is in the vertical condition. In one embodiment, the wind turbine assembly can include a tower including tapered lower and upper sections joined together at their respective wide ends, a turbine head connected to the upper section, and a platform connected to the lower section. The platform includes a buoy tank partially filled with ballast to provide mass and buoyancy. A wave piercing cowling is rotatively attached to the lower section. The turbine head can include an adjustable journal bearing, scabbard blade mounts, and a gearless induction generator with flux adjusting capabilities.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2009Publication date: August 18, 2011Inventor: Lloyd E. Weaver
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Publication number: 20110129329Abstract: The present invention discloses a gravity center adjustment device (2) for a wind turbine installation vessel. The gravity center adjustment device (2) is movably mounted to an outside of a vessel body (4) of the wind turbine installation vessel, so that the gravity center adjustment device (2) can selectively move in a plane substantially parallel with the vessel body (4). Since the gravity center adjustment device (2) according to the invention is movably installed to the vessel body and can move in a plane substantially parallel with the vessel body (4) so as to adjust the horizontal position of the gravity center of the installation vessel, its ability of adjusting the gravity center of the wind turbine installation vessel can be improved and the stability of the wind turbine installation vessel can be improved. Therefore, the operation efficiency can be improved and the cost of constructing a wind power plant on the offshore can be reduced.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2010Publication date: June 2, 2011Applicant: SANY Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jialiang Wu, Xinming Wang, Yanlin Li, Junlei Bai
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Patent number: 7944073Abstract: A power generator includes at least one underwater turbine unit providing a housing having a flow channel therethrough and at least one turbine means mounted in the flow channel for rotation in response to water flow through the flow channel. The turbine unit provides a turbine unit part releasably mountable in the turbine unit. The turbine unit part includes at least one of the at least one turbine means and a pump means. The turbine unit part is releasably mountable through an aperture in a side wall of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2008Date of Patent: May 17, 2011Assignee: Rotech Holdings LimitedInventors: Hector Fillipus Alexander Van Drentham Susman, Kenneth Roderick Stewart, Donald Stewart
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Patent number: 7902687Abstract: A submersible turbine-generator unit includes two or more turbines mounted on a common shaft with a generator therebetween. Each such turbine is capable of providing relatively low-speed, unidirectional rotation under a reversible ultra low head pressure and/or low velocity fluid flow. A plurality of airfoil-shaped turbine blades mount parallel to the common shaft and transversely to the direction of fluid flow for rotation in a plane parallel to the fluid flow. The turbines convert energy in the waterway currents into mechanical energy that will transfer through the turbine shaft to a cylindrical permanent magnet generator which will convert mechanical energy in the form of RPM and torque into electricity. Electricity from the variable speed electric generator is controlled, synchronized, conditioned and transformed into utility-grade electricity using a power electronics system in each module.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2007Date of Patent: March 8, 2011Assignee: Ocean Renewable Power Company, LLCInventors: Christopher R. Sauer, Charles D. Syverson, Patrick McGinnis
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Patent number: 7891940Abstract: A system for generating energy using water waves includes a unit having two rotors connected by a ramp. The unit is positioned at or near the surface of a body of water and oriented so that the waves break on the ramp and travel along the length of the ramp. Each rotor is provided with a plurality of buckets having an open top and a bottom having a opening. The opening is sealed by a flap when water enters through the top of the bucket, but is open when water enters or attempts to enter the bucket through the opening. As the water travels along the ramp, the water is fed into the buckets on the rotors to turn the rotors and drive generators positioned at both ends of the rotors. The energy is transmitted to an external collection point for use or distribution.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2009Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Kinetic Wave PowerInventor: James A. Sack
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Publication number: 20110038705Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2009Publication date: February 17, 2011Applicant: OXYDICE A/SInventor: Tommy Larsen
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Patent number: 7850433Abstract: Circulation systems for ponds, lakes, or other bodies of water. In one set of embodiments, water is drawn up from the depths of the body for exposure to the atmosphere and to generate an overall, high flow circulation pattern throughout the entire body. In other embodiments, the circulation in the body of water is primarily limited to an upper aerobic zone with only small and controlled volumes from a lower anaerobic zone being brought up. Each system preferably includes a flotation platform, dish, impeller, and draft tube with specific modifications to the various systems to adapt them for use in a variety of environments.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2007Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Medora Environmental, Inc.Inventors: Willard R. Tormaschy, Gary A. Kudrna, Tait J. Obritsch, Joel J. Bleth
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Patent number: 7811048Abstract: A turbine-intake tower for delivering wind to a turbine has a hollow support column, an intake nozzle assembly rotatably coupled to the support column, and a tower nozzle disposed within the support column. The intake nozzle assembly is configured to receive and to accelerate wind. The tower nozzle is configured to receive the wind from the intake nozzle assembly and to further accelerate the wind received from the intake nozzle assembly for delivery to the turbine.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2009Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Quality Research, Development & Consulting, Inc.Inventor: Daryoush Allaei
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Patent number: 7798419Abstract: A method and device for suppressing the destructive force of a tropical cyclone, wherein the ascendant speed of wind in the eyewall of a cyclone is reduced by sea water pumped on-site from under the sea surface to above the surface, and then dispensed in the wind at the bottom of the cyclone in/near its eyewall.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventor: Jozef Solc
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Publication number: 20100230965Abstract: A system for maintaining buoyant, energy-capture devices in general relative position in water in the presence of surface waves allows heeling of the energy capture devices while preventing collision. The system includes a grid of structural members that resists compression while permitting limited relative surface displacement between the first and second energy-capture devices. The structural members may be partially compressible and provide a restoring force, and they may allow heeling. Electricity from wave energy capture devices is combined in a way that smoothes variations inherent in wave action. Electricity from wind energy capture devices is combined with energy from wave energy capture devices for transmission to shore.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 9, 2010Publication date: September 16, 2010Applicant: Natural Power Concepts, Inc.Inventors: John Pitre, Stuart Huang
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Patent number: 7786610Abstract: An aircraft adapted to house a wind funnel and a wind turbine configured to convert the airflow through the wind funnel into electricity. An electrical cable between the aircraft and a ground station transfers the generated electricity from the aircraft to the receiving ground station for distribution. A plurality of aircraft according to certain embodiments may form a system for generating electricity from airflow.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2008Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Inventor: Lynn Potter
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Patent number: 7775761Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems and methods for tethered wind turbines may be provided. In some embodiments, a system may comprise an airborne body extending horizontally along an axis between a first point and a second point, wherein the body is at least partially filled with a gas. The system may further comprise, for example, two or more vanes coupled to the body such that the vanes, when acted upon by a wind force perpendicular to the axis are operable to cause the body to rotate about the axis to generate a Magnus effect lifting force. According to some embodiments, the system may comprise one or more tethers coupled to anchor the body to a third point.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2008Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Magenn Power, Inc.Inventor: Frederick D. Ferguson
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Patent number: 7768145Abstract: A power generator includes at least one underwater turbine unit providing a housing having a flow channel therethrough and at least one turbine means mounted in the flow channel for rotation in response to water flow through the flow channel. The turbine unit provides a turbine unit part releasably mountable in the turbine unit. The turbine unit part includes at least one of the at least one turbine means and a pump means. The turbine unit part is releasably mountable through an aperture in a side wall of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Assignee: Rotech Holdings LimitedInventors: Hector Fillipus Alexander Van Drentham Susman, Kenneth Roderick Stewart, Donald Stewart
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Publication number: 20100135768Abstract: A turbine system includes a turbine positioned so that its blades are exposed during at least part of their rotation to a region of fluid flow accelerated by a columnar structure, such as a building or a bridge pylon. A protective casing moves to isolate the turbine blades from the fluid flow, thereby protecting the turbine from overpowering conditions. Upwind and downwind fairings may be used when retrofitting pre-existing buildings. Turbines may be positioned on opposing sides of a building. Multiple turbine modules may be positioned in line along peripheries of a building. Turbines may be mounted on in-water structures, such as buoys.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2009Publication date: June 3, 2010Applicant: Natural Power Concepts, Inc.Inventor: John Pitre
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Publication number: 20100133844Abstract: A turbine adapted to be constrained within a flow of fluid is disclosed. The turbine comprises a stator adapted to be constrained within a flow of fluid, and a rotor defining an aperture and having a plurality of rotor blades (10) protruding from a peripheral region of the rotor into the aperture. The rotor is adapted to be rotatably mounted to the stator such that movement of fluid through the aperture causes rotation of the rotor relative to the stator. Electricity is generated as a result of rotation of the rotor relative to the stator.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 2, 2008Publication date: June 3, 2010Inventor: Colin Richard Pearce
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Publication number: 20100129193Abstract: Smooth, preferably variable-sweep fluid collection device surfaces disposed into opposition with wind, river, surf, ocean or tidal currents generate enhanced velocity fluid flows at length driven into onboard work-extracting disc turbines at advantageous angles of attack. Keyed to shafts turning freely through optionally extendable volutes, disc turbines comprising a dense population of smooth, axially fixed or adjustably spaced discs conducting preferably laminar flow between adjacent elements develop significant torque through boundary layer adhesion and viscous shear-stress between fluid layers. Exhaust of disc turbine throughput into divergent channels drafting into external currents of initially higher than ambient velocity and lower pressure may reduce turbine discharge backpressure, rapidly clear system throughput, and allow normally disadvantageous drag to be utilized to develop greater work generation.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Inventor: Gordon David Sherrer
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Patent number: 7713031Abstract: A submersible pump apparatus comprising a housing containing all the components of the pump assembly for using the submersible pump apparatus in a body of water. A float or a plurality of floats are attached to the top side of the housing for providing a positive buoyancy to the submersible pump apparatus. The float is provided with a channel for slidably receiving a single weight or a plurality of weights. The weight is used to overcome the positive buoyancy of the float and achieve a negative buoyancy for submerging the submersible pump apparatus to the bottom of the body of water. A sled is attached to the bottom side of the housing and comprises the combination of both legs and feet for supporting the submersible pump apparatus at the bottom of a body of water. A finder float floating at the water surface level is attached using a rope to both the weight and the housing. By removing the weight or weights from the float, a positive buoyancy is restored to raise the submersible pump apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2006Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Aqua Control, Inc.Inventor: Willis Dane
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Patent number: 7670044Abstract: Circulation systems for ponds, lakes, or other bodies of water using a flotation platform, dish, and impeller. One embodiment has a connecting arrangement between the drive motor and the impeller that permits the two to be easily and quickly coupled and uncoupled. The connecting arrangement also is designed to accommodate slight misalignments between the shafts. An arrangement to adjust and calibrate the depth of the inlet to the draft tube is disclosed. The system further includes solar panels that can be pivotally swung outwardly to open positions, angularly adjusted about a horizontal axis, and mounted to face toward the central axis of the flotation platform rather than away from it. Arrangements are further provided to monitor and control the components of the system including remotely from shore.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2007Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Medora Environmental, Inc.Inventors: Willard R. Tormaschy, Gary A. Kudrna, Tait J. Obritsch, Joel J. Bleth, Corey M. Simnioniw
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Patent number: 7670101Abstract: A portable hydro-generator, for the generation of power, including a tower (10) filled with a driving fluid, a semi-sealed curved tubular housing with a drive portion and a return portion primed with a fluid, the drive portion having a larger diameter than the return portion, an inlet to allow the fluid to enter the tubular housing, a plurality of paddles to harness the kinetic energy of the fluid entering the curved tubular housing, a linkage assembly to link the plurality of paddles, a drive chamber, a sprocket within the drive chamber to engage a portion of the paddles, and an output power generator attached to the sprocket. A paddle adapted to be used in the hydro-generator include a top surface, a bottom surface, seals to prevent water leakage through the paddles, a linkage bar to allow an attachment of the paddle to subsequent paddle, wherein the top surface of the paddle further includes studs to increase the effective surface area of the top of the paddle.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2004Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Inventor: Richard Chin Pang Mui
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Patent number: 7661922Abstract: Installations for harvesting energy of river and ocean tidal currents consist of multiple Darrieus type turbines with funnels, which are located inline on the river or ocean bottom and oriented perpendicular to direction of water movement due to tide or river current. Use of Darrieus type turbines with funnels significantly increases efficiency of energy utilization of water streams in comparison versus system not utilizing funnels. Use of greater number of Darrieus turbines operating in line allows to utilize more powerful gearbox and generator, thus improving economics of their operation. For the purpose of simplification the regular maintenance of the system the generator and all auxiliary systems are located above water, except 90-degrees gearbox. To prevent water entering 90-degrees gearbox it always is under air pressure slightly above hydrostatic pressure of water above it.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2005Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Inventor: Sidney Irving Belinsky
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Patent number: 7661659Abstract: A swing-type submersible floating aerator, including a gas-ring compressor, a base, a pipe, a support tube, a swing device and a driving device, wherein the base is disposed between the gas-ring compressor and the support tube, the base is disposed at the center of the swing device, and the driving device drives the swing device to rotate. The swing-type submersible floating aerator is capable of rotating 360 degrees in a clockwise or a counterclockwise direction, and push-flow and aeration can be performed in any direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2008Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Inventors: Shulin Sun, Jian Sun
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Patent number: 7661658Abstract: Provided is a submersible floating aerator, including a submersible hollow shaft motor (1) including a hollow shaft (2), a bottom shaft extension (4), a first motor flange (15), a second motor flange (16), a first flange (24) and a second flange (25), a gas-ring compressor (17), a base (21) having a gas inlet hole (22), a gas inlet tube (23), a dome (26), a propeller assembly (60) and an air outlet opening (18); wherein the base (21) is fixed on the top of the gas inlet tube (23), the gas-ring compressor (17) is fixed on the base (21) via a bracket (19); the air outlet opening (18) is connected to the gas-inlet hole (22) via a pipe (20); the gas inlet tube (23) is fixed to the first motor flange (15) via a first flange (24); the second motor flange (16) is fixed to the dome (26) via the second flange (25); the bottom shaft extension (4) is coaxially connected to the propeller assembly (60); and the hollow shaft (2) rotates along with the propeller assembly (60).Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2007Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Inventors: Shulin Sun, Jian Sun
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Patent number: 7586207Abstract: A system for generating energy using water waves includes a unit having two rotors connected by a ramp. The unit is positioned at or near the surface of a body of water and oriented so that the waves break on the ramp and travel along the length of the ramp. Each rotor is provided with a plurality of buckets having an open top and a bottom having a opening. The opening is sealed by a flap when water enters through the top of the bucket, but is open when water enters or attempts to enter the bucket through the opening. As the water travels along the ramp, the water is fed into the buckets on the rotors to turn the rotors and drive generators positioned at both ends of the rotors. The energy is transmitted to an external collection point for use or distribution.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2007Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Kinetic Wave PowerInventor: James A. Sack
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Patent number: 7513733Abstract: The invention relates to a generator for obtaining energy, in particular a torque comprising at least two elastic buoyant bodies which are moved around at least two deflection elements, and in the process pass a liquid-filled container through an inlet opening, which is arranged on the end surface of the container facing the ground, the cross section of which inlet opening is smaller than the cross section of an elastic buoyant body in the unloaded state. In order to narrow the elastic buoyant bodies to the cross section of the inlet opening before they enter the liquid-filled container, a funnel element is proposed according to the invention, and is arranged in front of the inlet opening.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Inventor: Eugen Dentler
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Publication number: 20090026767Abstract: A modular system for producing electricity from the channel, river, ocean or tidal water currents and wind is disclosed. The embodiments of the system comprise a set of interconnected modules. Each module contains a fluid flow energy converter positioned in a protecting housing. A converter consists of a vertical axis underwater hydro-turbine or wind turbine, connected to the electrical generator. The turbine is essentially a paddlewheel having an arrangement of attached paddles with mutually perpendicularly oriented asymmetric blades that are fixed to the poles at both ends. Such orientation of blades provides a positive feedback minimizing the blades' friction while maximizing a drag force and maximizing the turbine's efficiency. The electrical generator transforms the rotational energy of the turbine into electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2006Publication date: January 29, 2009Inventor: Edouard Petrounevitch