Abstract: This machine consists of an impeller formed by a right prism with a minimum weight/volume ratio and which has an irregular hexagonal section, three sides of which are bigger than the other three, and with said hexagon's vertexes belonging to a single circumference. The second body of said machine is formed by an open cylindrical chamber, concentric to the impeller, with an angle of approximately 83 degrees.Its basic characteristic is its high performance in obtaining energy produced by minimum height waterfalls.

Abstract: A hinged vane rotor generating power from rivers, streams, tides or wind. A cylindrical drum is supported sideways in a current by axles at the ends connected to pulleys which are in turn, connected to a generator(s), mill wheel, pump or other working device. The rotor is turned by a series of hinged vanes, each one opening to catch the current on one side of the drum and closing to avoid the current on the other side of the drum. A fluid directing component is incorporated to increase current against one side of the drum and reduce it against the other side.

Abstract: A high volume aeration device comprises a motor and propeller tube suspended in a pond by a float. A propeller on the motor shaft and inside the propeller tube creates a generally hollow water output stream that rises out of the propeller tube. A diffuser plate is longitudinally slidable inside the hollow water output stream. The water output stream strikes the diffuser plate and locates it at an equilibrium location whereat the force of the water output stream on the diffuser plate periphery equals the weight of the diffuser plate. If the propeller cavitates, the reduced water output stream causes the diffuser plate to fall toward the propeller and redirect the water output stream to the propeller. The redirected water output stream reloads the propeller and enables the aeration device to resume full output without outside intervention after the cause of the cavitation has been eliminated.

Abstract: A number of embodiments of water powered devices that are adapted to be positioned in a stream of moving water and which carry water wheels for driving a driven device. The driven device may comprise a generator and a number of embodiments are illustrated for holding the generator against rotation and for absorbing its torque loading. In addition, a device is provided for insuring buoyancy of the device so that the water wheels float with their axis above the level of water. In some embodiments, the buoyant device comprises a buoyant float that also provides a hydrodynamic lift and a hydrodynamic force for carrying the device to the center of the stream. In other embodiments, the device comprises a hydrodynamic device that provides both the lift and the transverse force. An arrangement is disclosed which permits stacking of the water wheels for ease of packing and additionally an arrangement is disclosed for permitting replacement of individual blades of the water wheels.

Abstract: A portable floating apparatus for providing pressurized air to a submerged diver. The apparatus is comprised of the combination of a gasoline engine and an air compressor, said combination being housed in a buoyant container similar to a suitcase. The gasoline engine is preferably a two-stroke engine which drives the air compressor. The top of the container has large outlets for the intake of fresh air for compression, engine cooling and the exit of exhaust gases. These outlets have cowlings extending therefrom to reduce flooding by water from spraying or waves in rough seas. A small outlet on the side of the container with a coupling allows a flexible hose to supply air to a submerged diver. An optional fan may be inserted in the duct of one cowling to provide additional ventilation and cooling. The air supply hose, cowlings and other exterior components can be stored in the container when not in use.

Abstract: A pump assembly has a housing with water admitting openings through the housing near the bottom. A pump in the housing has an intake near the bottom. A water level sensor connects the pump to a battery in the housing when the level rises above the pump intake, to operate the pump. Closed cell foam flotation floats the assembly to permit pumping from a pool of any depth greater than one third the height of the housing. Flotation also is arranged to achieve self-righting of the assembly in the event of inadvertent tipping or upset.

Abstract: A flotation platform supports a mast assembly through which a drive shaft extends having a wind driven turbine on the upper end and a propeller on the lower end situated below the water surface. The propeller is rotated by the wind turbine and causes localized water circulation in the body of water in which the mill is situated thus aerating and mixing the water in the summer and also maintaining an ice free area around the mill in winter.

Abstract: Disclosed is a control apparatus for a variable-speed hydraulic power generating system comprising a variable-speed a.c. electric generator connected to an a.c. electric power system and a hydraulic machine system including a water turbine for driving the generator and a guide vane for controlling an amount of water supplied to the water turbine.

Abstract: A number of embodiments of water powered devices that are adapted to be positioned in a stream of moving water and which carry water wheels for driving a driven device. The driven device may comprise a generator and a number of embodiments are illustrated for holding the generator against rotation and for absorbing its torque loading. In addition, a device is provided for insuring buoyancy of the device so that the water wheels float with their axis above the level of water. In some embodiments, the buoyant device comprises a buoyant float that also provides a hydrodynamic lift and a hydrodynamic force for carrying the device to the center of the stream. In other embodiments, the device comprises a hydrodynamic device that provides both the lift and the transverse force. An arrangement is disclosed which permits stacking of the water wheels for ease of packing and additionally an arrangement is disclosed for permitting replacement of individual blades of the water wheels.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for using same for extracting energy from waves, including near-shore waves by imparting momentum to an energy roller or energy car. The energy roller or car is moved along a flexible floating belt by the action of waves on the shape of the flexible floating belt. The invention also provides for a hydrodynamically shaped float to be driven along a rigid floating structure by the action of a wave at the rear of the float.

Abstract: A water power apparatus, composed of independent, uniquely combined, and improved design features, which provides for: (1) side pontoons, the respective bows of which angle water away from the water flowing directly into the paddle wheels; (2) the addition of wheels to the cone shaped legs so as to enable vessel positioning in shallow water areas; (3) vertically dividing each respective side paddle wheel set in half, via a solid disk division extending vertically, at a right angle to, and from, the central axle to the outside extreme end of the paddle blades, off-setting the 90 degree spaced paddle blades in each such divided set by 45 degrees, and enclosing the extreme ends of each such set of divided paddle wheels via a similar solid, vertical disk enclosure extending vertically, at a right angle to, and from, the central axle to the outside extreme end of the paddle blades; (4) a gearing system utilizing the outside edge perimeter of a side paddle wheel disk enclosure, adjacent to the center boat, via vert

Abstract: A water turbine has a series of spaced blades attached to and extending around the periphery of a body portion, preferably of conical or similar shape; each of the blades has a leading end mounted at a mid region of the body e.g. halfway along it and each blade generally increases in radial dimension in the downstream direction towards the base of the body and each blade generally decreases in pitch of the blade surface in the downstream direction. A channel is defined between adjacent blades, the channel diverging in the downstream direction and the base of the body extends transversely to the axis of the body and co-operates with the blade structure to provide a zone of relative low pressure near the axial region of the body whereby an efficient water turbine is provided.

Abstract: An improved hydroelectric system provides automatic adjustment for both tidal (reversing) and river (one way) type flow. A plurality of parallel, axial flow auger-type impellors are mounted in a horizontal plane on a floating, inverted-dry-dock type vessel that has an upper deck mounting hydroelectric generators. The vessel has no bottom beneath the impellors but has parallel with them on each side a tank for buoyancy and level and flow control. Over and under the impellors are pivoting deflectors that direct flow onto the impellors and automatically reverse and rest against appropriate bumper stops when the flow reverses, from one open end to the other open end of the vessel.

Abstract: A floating apparatus for providing pressurized air to a submerged swimmer. A container is sealed and waterproofed so that it will float on the surface of the water and has an inlet above the water and an outlet below the water. The outlet is adapted to be coupled to a hose which will provide air to the submerged swimmer. The inside of the container houses a pump which couples the inlet to the outlet and forces pressurized air through the outlet. The pump is driven by an electric motor within the container.

Abstract: The invention describes an energy extractor for extracting energy from waves in the sea. A ring spine is disclosed and on the spine, spaced circumferentially thereof are flexible membranes which flex back and forth under the influence of the waves. The back and forth flexing deflects air back and forth and the air movement is used to drive air turbines and electrical generators. Arranging for the spine to be in a ring and spacing the membranes around the ring ensures efficient energy extraction regardless of wave direction.

Abstract: A sea wave impacted power generating device, comprising essentially a fix support, a movable bearer, a blade type water wheel, two pressure cylinders, a storage cylinder, two braking means and several floating bodies. Bottom of said movable bearer has several floating bodies mounted thereon and floated on then face. Square horn port and water channel thereof are used to introduce impact impulsion force of sea wave to push a blade type water wheel and further to rotate an eccentrically mounted connecting rod. Connecting rod is used to cause displacement of piston of the pressure cylinder to generate high pressure air to be stored in a pressure cylinder and used for power or electricity generating device activated by high pressure air.

Abstract: An energy efficient apparatus suitable for use in hot, arid climates wherein a source of water is available includes in combination; a rotating wheel member which utilizes the buoyancy of outwardly extending members and a pair of temperature sensitive devices responsive to the change in ambient temperature to cause the moment about the axis of the rotating wheel member to increase, thereby aiding in the rotation of the rotating wheel member providing continuous output energy. The increase of the mechanical moment is caused by the mechanical change in position of an outwardly extending member and provides a portion of the energy obtained thereby to a spring and escapement mechanism which further couples additional energy to support the rotation of the rotating wheel member.

Abstract: A hull floating on a body of water is tethered by an anchored mooring cable so that it is disposed to trail from the anchor in a current. The hull supports a rotary load such as an electric generator, air compressor or water pump having a transversely extending rotary input shaft extending beyond the hull in both lateral directions. Balanced sets of vanes arranged in wheels mounted to respective ends of the shaft are disposed in a partially submerged condition to be turned by the water current, thus turning the shaft and the rotary load. A load output conduit is provided for transmitting the load output from the load. Where the current changes direction periodically, the load output conduit may follow the mooring cable and both be pivotally mounted to the anchor so that the hull may swing around as the current changes direction. A debris-deflecting fender is shown.

Abstract: A floating portable pump is constructed of a float defining a well for containing water, a centrifugal pump supported on the float with its impeller shaft extending vertically and with its suction inlet submerged in water in the well, and an internal combustion engine arranged to drive the pump impeller. The pump and engine are secured together on the float in an arrangement such that the engine causes rotation of the pump impeller to cause the pump to draw water from the well through its suction inlet and discharge water from the pump discharge.

Abstract: A rotating cellular energy generating device for generating electrical power for extended periods of time. The generating device characterized by having an annular rotating housing having a plurality of individual compartments therein. The compartments receiving material which is compartmentalized to accurately control the mass distribution in the rotating housing for maintaining speed as power is withdrawn or generated during the rotation of the housing.

Abstract: A turbine which rotates in the same directional sense for both directions of throughflow of a working medium contains rotor blades possessing an aerofoil-shaped profile which at least over a portion of the length of the rotor blades is subdivided into profile parts or portions in order to improve the flow of the working medium about the rotor blades. The profile parts of the rotor blades are non-symmetrically constructed or arranged at least in part with respect to each plane which is perpendicular to the momentary throughflow direction of the rotor. It is therefore possible to reduce the dimensions of the turbine with essentially the same power output. Such type of turbine is particularly suitable for extracting energy from the movement of waves of bodies of water, such as the sea water of the ocean, and air moved by the waves alternately in opposite directions serves as the working or flow medium.

Abstract: A dual baffle pump/aerator assembly comprising a concave intake baffle which is disposed upon the floor of an endless channel of an oxidation ditch to intercept the flow of mixed liquor within the channel. A horizontal barrier having aeration means associated therewith is disposed above and attached to the intake baffle. A concave discharge baffle is disposed above and attached to the horizontal barrier.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing air with liquid, an aerator or oxygenator, comprises a motor or other power drive generally mounted in vertical position on a floating or a fixed structure, the motor having a shaft extending downwards through an opening in the center area of the float or fixed structure and bearing on its lower part a screw pump portion located in a cylindrical volute section just below the water level. When the apparatus is operating, the waste-water is sucked by means of the screw pump from the bottom of the body of liquid at which the apparatus is positioned and is pushed upwards in order to be diffused by means of a centrifugal impeller having outwardly curved blades, at least one of which extends downward to merge with a spiral shaped portion of a blade on the screw pump.

Abstract: A turbine includes a plurality of blades mounted on a rotary pedestal such that the pedestal is rotatable in the same direction regardless of the direction of flow. Conversion efficiency is improved by generally locating the zero lift plane of the blades on a cylindrical or conical surface coaxial with the rotary output.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for extracting the inherent kinetic energy from water particles moving in substantially circular paths within waves. It comprises a coherent intake plane (1) extending continuously from the intake side (2) to the outtake side (3), along which intake plane the waves are to roll freely from the intake side (2) to the outtake side (3). A duct (5) includes an entrance portion connected to the plane (1) and directed substantially beneath the plane toward the intake side (2). The entrance portion defines a depression (4) into which the waves fall, breaking the water particles from their respective circular paths and causing them to flow in substantially the same direction in the duct (5) for delivery to an associated energy converter.

Abstract: A rotatable shaft is provided with a plurality of blades each fixed at one end to the shaft and extending radially outwardly therefrom. Each of the blades has at least one gate or opening for the passage of fluid therethrough, and a slide movable between an inner position overlapping the blade and an outer position extending radially therefrom. The slide has means for opening said gate in one position and closing said gate in the other position. A cam for selectively moving said slide between said inner and outer positions is provided on a support for the shaft.

Abstract: An installation for exploiting the energy of flowing water in a river stream comprising a plurality of anchored pontoons supporting a plurality of waterwheels; the pontoons being arranged in a plurality of rows, the pontoons in each row being in tandem such that they form a multiplicity of longitudinal channels to channel water flow from the front to the rear of the installation and a plurality of transverse channels to channel water flow from the side of the installation to its center; the waterwheels having crankshafts that drive double acting piston pumps.

Abstract: A buoyancy prime mover that converts the potential energy of a gas buoyant within a liquid into rotating mechanical energy comprises a plurality of rigid or collapsible buckets joined by one or more chains with rotatable sprockets and shafts to form a continuous loop within an enclosure and means for controlling the pressure within the enclosure whereby the buoyant gas is trapped within the buckets, the buckets rise through the liquid and rotate the chain and sprockets to generate power.

Abstract: A motor wherein a stationary carrier supports one or more rotors each having a hollow cylindrical or endless belt-like buoyant member confining an annulus of separate inflatable and deflatable compartments for alternative admission of heated gaseous fluid and evacuation of spent fluid while the buoyant member is at least partially immersed in a supply of liquid. The inflated compartments push the buoyant member sideways and thus hold the buoyant member in a position of eccentricity with reference to the carrier and/or with reference to a hub, which is mounted on the carrier and receives torque from the buoyant member, so that the latter rotates due to its eccentric positioning and under the action of the lifting force.

Abstract: From one or more lighter than air bodies, carrying wind energy catching rotor devices, like windmills, turbines or the like, the caught energy is mechanically transmitted to earth by at least one endless cable-rope transmission. Each of the cables is led over an individual sheave fitted to a turntable on earth (ground, ship, float or so), from which it drives a stationary machine, like a generator or such, and cable guide rolls are provided as needed. All functions of force-transmission, consisting of energy transmission, wind-resistance and upward-floating forces and steering are performed by the turntable through the endless energy transmission cable(s), and no tethering or other force-transmitting cables are applied. In addition a loose, very low tensioned communication line for control, gas supply and the like extends from the turntable to the floating parts. Cable guide rolls are provided as needed.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing air with liquid (aerator or oxygenator) comprises a motor or other power drive generally mounted in vertical position on a float or a fixed structure, the motor having a shaft extending downwards through an opening in the center area of the float or fixed structure and bearing on its lower part a propeller located in a cylindrical volute section just underneath the waterlevel. When the apparatus is operating, the waste-water is sucked by means of the propeller from the bottom of the body of liquid on which the apparatus is floating and pushed upwards in order to be diffused by means of a rotating diffusion head in the shape of a paddle-wheel. This feature increases efficiency of the installation, allowing the velocity of the fluid leaving the propeller to be kept as low as possible and the dimensions of intake volute and propeller to be increased.

Abstract: The subject-matter of the present invention is a system for the generation of electrical energy by utilizing the kinetic energy of seawater, comprising a floating body exhibiting two floating supports (1) connected by a lower platform (2), a main deck and a large impeller (5) arranged between them and having a horizontal axis (12). The impeller axis is carried by vertical platelike supports (4) which divide the impeller vanes into several sectors. The rotary movement of the impeller is transmitted to a machine park (19-22) located on the main deck (3) for the generation of electrical energy. Despite its large dimensions the system according to the invention is distinguished by its high stability (FIG. 7).

Abstract: Current energy is converted into shaft power in two stages;First, buoyant power units with stationary hydrofoil wings reach faster than the current speed by sweeping out a captive path.Second, turbines at said power units convert the fast relative local current into shaft power.Power units sweeping along the water surface, using cycloidal turbine methods, as well as power units sweeping on a submerged path, using axial flow turbine methods, are described.

Abstract: The water turbine of the present invention includes a housing defining a generally cylindrical chamber therein defining a laterally extending opening. Rotatably positioned within the chamber is a rotor including a plurality of folding wings or vanes extending outwardly therefrom. Each vane includes a first blade section which is immovably fixed with respect to the rotor hub and a second blade section which is pivotally secured with respect to the first blade section. This pivotal movement of the second blade toward the nonpropelling side of the vane is restricted by a stop whereas pivotal movement of the second blade section toward the propelling side of the vane is made possible. A biasing device is included to urge the second blade section into contact with the stop which is the propulsion of the vane. To protect the joined connection between the first and second blade sections a covering means preferably including an expandable and contractable baffle section may be included.

Abstract: A centrifugal pump including a vertical axle, a flotation member rotatingly engaging the axle for lateral support, a plurality of equidistant radially extending conduits supported by the flotation member, each of the conduits including an intake port adjacent the vertical axis of the flotation member and submersed in the liquid to be pumped and upon which the flotation member of bouyed and a discharge port adjacent the outer terminal edge of the flotation member, and a drive system for rotating the flotation member.

Abstract: An improved rotational buoyant mass for wave energy conversion apparatus is disclosed. The rotational buoyant mass comprises at least one pair of helical volumes mounted for rotation about a common axis. The helical volumes are rotationally displaced with respect to one another about the common axis. The improved rotational buoyant mass may include multiple pairs of helices, the helices of respective pairs being displaced with respect to one another.

Abstract: A drive is disclosed utilizing at least two units of which one may be an auxiliary. Each unit is positionable in a relatively deep body of water and has upper and lower sprockets about which a chain is trained which carries a series of receptacles that open in the trailing direction. The chain courses of the conveyors that are to travel upwardly are close together and air under pressure is delivered into the receptacles of at least one unit as they reach the lower end of its upwardly travelling course to render the receptacles of those courses buoyant. At least one receptacle of each unit is positioned to receive air escaping from or bypassing a receptacle of the other unit. At the upper end of the downwardly travelling courses, the receptacles become weighted as they fill with water.

Abstract: A device to convert wave energy into mechanical energy, comprises a buoyant structure whose upper portion is in the region of wave action but whose lower section is below the region of wave action, so that the water adjacent the upper and lower sections of the structure has vertical movement relative to itself. This relative movement is used to rotate a vertical shaft having radially extending horizontal axles on which panels are pivotally mounted. Ballast and/or floats are used to impose on the panels a bias tending to maintain them horizontal. The relative movement of the water is used to impel fluid vertically relative to the panels in alternatingly opposite directions; and the bias imposed by the ballast and/or floats thus causes a planing wing action of the panels which impels the shaft in rotation in one direction regardless of the direction of the movement of the impelling fluid. The floating structure can rise and fall with the waves (FIGS.

Abstract: A submersible turbine device which can be used in conjunction with a water wheel operated at water level, away from the submerged turbine device. The submersible turbine device comprises a turbine bed and a turbine wheel which comprises a central rotor and a plurality of turbine blades. A forward shield is positioned to permit current flow on the exposed turbine blades while shielding the opposite blades of the turbine wheel. The turbine blade comprises sections which are hinged in such a manner that they automatically extend when exposed to current flow for maximum drive and that they automatically fold for minimum resistance when travelling against water pressure. A supplementary turbine device comprises anchored, upwardly extending support means, a buoyant platform mounted to the anchored upwardly extending support means for floating at the water level, and a water wheel rotatably mounted in the buoyant platform.

Abstract: A water pump system having a float and underwater intake with discharge into an increasingly sized series of consecutive pipes, open to the water body, for entraining additional water with that expelled from the discharge to provide a high volume, low rate and pressure water mover and a method of aquaculture employing the system.

Abstract: A buoyancy prime mover that converts the potential energy of a gas buoyant within a liquid into rotating mechanical energy comprises a plurality of rigid or collapsible buckets joined by one or more chains with rotatable sprockets and shafts to form a continuous loop so that when the buoyant gas is trapped within the buckets, the buckets rise through the liquid and rotate the chain and sprockets to generate power.

Abstract: Solar power station with semiconductor solar cells for generating electric power, wherein the semiconductor solar cells are provided on a member such as a balloon or a kite which carries the solar cells into the air. The function of the balloon or kite can also be fulfilled by a glider or airship. The solar power station can be operated by allowing the system to ascend at sunrise and descend at sunset or when the wind is going to be too strong in order to avoid any demage.

Abstract: A device for converting the energy of ocean waves into electricity, comprises a buoyant body that floats on the surface of the water and rises and falls with the waves. Fixedly secured to the buoyant body at a depth in the region of still water not affected by the waves, is a bucket wheel or bucket chain which will accordingly rise and fall with the buoyant body. But as the water surrounding the bucket wheel or chain is still, the wheel or chain will be caused to rotate or circulate, respectively. This movement of the wheel or chain is transmitted to a generator or other energy conversion device on the buoyant body, and thence to shore.

Abstract: An apparatus for efficiently converting the power of running water to useful electrical energy; the apparatus including a pair of floating pontoons anchored in a running stream, and between which a plurality of paddle wheels, rotated by the water, drive a gear mechanism connected to an electric generator, and ducts under the pontoons converging toward the paddle wheels, for concentrating more water flow thereto.

Abstract: A hydro-electric power apparatus including an electrical generator is mounted in a combination power house and crew housing disposed at or above the surface of a current of ocean or other water current and a hydraulic turbine for driving the electrical generator is suspended into the water from a supporting platform on which the power house and crew housing are mounted. The power house and crew housing and the supporting platform are anchored to the floor of the ocean or like body of water without the use of walls, ramps or the like. The supporting platform provides a helipad landing for a helicopter transporting food and supplies for the maintenance crew and repair and replacement parts for the electrical generator and other parts of the apparatus. A water inlet or intake nozzle is suspended from the supporting platform to direct a maximum hydraulic force of the ocean or other water current in the area into the hydraulic turbine.

Abstract: A dome-shaped atoll structure (12) having a central aperture at its apex is secured to a station-keeping structure (11, or 40, or 52) positioned on the ocean bottom. The atoll structure (12) is moveable through a range of vertical positions relative to the ocean bottom. Sea waves impinging on the atoll structure (12) are refracted as they crest and break, thereby producing spiralling pulses of water that converge toward the central aperture. The central aperture provides entry into a vertical standpipe (14) for the pulses of water, which impart angular momentum to water already present in the standpipe (14). A turbine (31) attached to a shaft (28) in the standpipe (14) converts the rotational energy of the water in the standpipe (14) to rotational energy of the shaft (28), which is coupled to an electrical generator (27).

Abstract: A turbine or like rotary machine of the kind in which a fluid, either a liquid or gas, is arranged to act on a plurality of generally radially extending rotor blades, has each rotor blade fixed in position relative to the rotor hub and is substantially symmetrical about a plane perpendicular to the rotor axis, the blades having surfaces which are of generally aerofoil shape and being mounted with their leading edges facing in the same circumferential direction. The rotor of such a turbine can be driven by a generally axial flow of fluid, the direction of rotation being unchanged when the direction of flow of the fluid is reversed, so that it can be used to advantage in an oscillating or periodically reversing fluid flow. Such a flow may be provided or produced for example, by naturally occurring movement of air or water.

Abstract: A generally toric lighter-than-air gas bag-type airfoil is tethered to the ground at a plurality of angularly widely distributed points about the periphery of the gas bag. A wind turbine is mounted at the entrance to the axially central vent. The tether lines are entrained about individually operable power winches, preferably controlled by a microprocessor which takes in wind direction and tether line tension data and operates the winches and inflation gas inlet and outlet valves to orient the wind turbine into the wind for maximum power output.

Abstract: Apparatus for extracting material floating on the surface of a fluid having waves thereon is provided comprising means (20) for causing the waves to break, means (36) for directing the broken waves to induce a downward flow of surface fluid and the material thereon, means (34) for discharging the downward flow of fluid and said material a preselected distance below the surface of the fluid, and means (20, 22) for containing the discharged material. In a particular embodiment, a submerged refractive structure in the form of a dome-shaped shell (20) is provided to cause the waves to break. Guide vanes (36) direct the broken surface waves into a centrally disposed vertical standpipe (34) where the fluid and the entrained floating material flows downward and is then discharged at the bottom of the shell. The material accumulates at the upper interior portion (22) within the shell. An access opening (50) is provided through the wall of the shell to facilitate removal of the material accumulated within the shell.

Abstract: A plurality of wind turbines are supported aloft on the same tethered airfoil which is provided with devices for orienting the wind turbines into the wind. Various ways and devices are described for converting the wind energy into electrical power and for connecting and providing the plural outputs to the same electrical power grid. The principles are applicable whether there are a small number of relatively large wind turbines, a large number of relatively small wind turbines or some of each.