Motor Having A Buoyant Working Member Patents (Class 60/495)
- Having tide responsive working member positioning means (Class 60/498)
- Having means responsive to lateral impulse of fluid (Class 60/499)
- Having articulated buoyant members (Class 60/500)
- Motor is free floating unit (Class 60/501)
- Having fluid flow or wave controlling, confining or directing means (Class 60/502)
- Having flexible strand working member motion transmitting means (Class 60/504)
- Having relatively movable working members (Class 60/505)
- Working member pivotally supported (Class 60/506)
- Having one-way clutch power transmission means, e.g., ratchet, etc. (Class 60/507)
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Patent number: 12234799Abstract: A system and method by which energy from ocean waves is converted into hydrogen, and that hydrogen is used to manifest electrical and mechanical energies by an energy consuming device. A portion of the generated electrical power is communicated to water electrolyzers which produce oxygen and hydrogen from water as gases. At least a portion of the generated hydrogen gas is transferred to a transportation ship via a hose-carrying, remotely operated (or otherwise unmanned) vehicle, and subsequently transferred to an energy-consuming module or infrastructure, where a portion of the hydrogen is consumed in order to manifest a generation of electrical energy, a mechanical motion, and/or a chemical reaction.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2022Date of Patent: February 25, 2025Assignee: Lone Gull Holdings, Ltd.Inventors: Garth Alexander Sheldon-Coulson, Brian Lee Moffat, Daniel William Place, Ivar Lee Thorson
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Patent number: 12188444Abstract: An apparatus (1) for generating power is provided. The apparatus comprises: at least one pocket (2a-h) for collecting inlet gas which rises through a liquid in which the at least one pocket may be located; an output rotor (4); and a greenhouse gas scavenger (6) for removing greenhouse gas from an inlet gas; the apparatus being configured so that collection of inlet gas causes movement of the pocket, the pocket being coupled to the output rotor so that movement of the pocket causes rotation of the output rotor. A method is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2019Date of Patent: January 7, 2025Assignee: ROBERT LIM INVENTIONS LIMITEDInventor: Robert Lim
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Patent number: 12092210Abstract: A method for driving a transmission mechanism output power in response to an anticipated fluid-pressure gradient field is provided. The method includes sensing the change of direction of pressure gradient field at a desired location from the different area of the transmission mechanism within fluid. The method further includes constructing fluid-pressure gradient field based upon isolation-fluid apparatus or low-density fluid space installed on a transmission mechanism within fluid.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2022Date of Patent: September 17, 2024Inventor: Yanjun Che
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Patent number: 12085096Abstract: An indirect hydraulic load hierarchical control system and method for a wave energy device includes a first hydraulic cylinder group, a second hydraulic cylinder group, a third hydraulic cylinder group, a high-pressure energy accumulator group, a pressure detection control module, a first hydraulic power generator set, a second hydraulic power generator set and a third hydraulic power generator set. A detection end of the pressure detection control module is used for acquiring an internal pressure of the high-pressure energy accumulator group, comparing the internal pressure with a preset pressure level, and respectively controlling the on-off of reversing valves and electromagnetic valves according to a comparison result. The present invention has the beneficial effects that all hydraulic loads can be automatically loaded or automatically unloaded, so that the wave energy device operates in a full load state or in an optimal energy conversion efficiency state.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2023Date of Patent: September 10, 2024Assignee: GUANGZHOU INSTITUTE OF ENERGY CONVERSION, CHINESE ACADEMY OF SCIENCESInventors: Yin Ye, Songwei Sheng, Wensheng Wang, Kunlin Wang
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Patent number: 12012945Abstract: The invention relates to a storage unit (2) for storing energy in the form of potential energy, comprising at least one potential energy storage device (4) for receiving, storing and releasing energy, at least one guide element (6) for guiding the potential energy storage device (4) along a guide path (8), wherein the guide path (8) is arranged within a shaft (10) arranged in the ground vertically with respect to the ground surface, wherein the potential energy storage device (4) obtains the stored potential energy by conversion from kinetic energy and releases it by conversion into kinetic energy, wherein the kinetic energy results from a movement of the potential energy storage device (4) along the guide path (8), and wherein the potential energy storage device (4) is formed in the form of a continuous weight extending beyond the length of the guide path (8).Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2020Date of Patent: June 18, 2024Assignee: Eickhoff Antriebstechnik GmbHInventor: Thomas Volbers
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Patent number: 12004714Abstract: A medical instrument includes an insertion section main body extending along a longitudinal axis, a rotation supporter attached to the insertion section main body, a power transmission member rotatably supported by the rotation supporter and having a blade to which a fluid is supplied, external teeth arranged on an outer circumferential surface of the power transmission member in a circumferential direction, a tubular rotation member disposed outside the power transmission member in a radial direction, internal teeth arranged on an inner circumferential surface of the rotation member in the circumferential direction, and a fluid duct configured to supply the fluid to the blade. The power transmission member is configured to rotate by receiving power generated in the blade due to supply of the fluid. The rotation member is configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis by receiving the power from the power transmission member as the internal teeth are meshed with the external teeth.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2021Date of Patent: June 11, 2024Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventor: Yuto Maekawa
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Patent number: 11719218Abstract: This invention relates to a wave energy recovery apparatus with a power-take-off arrangement comprising at least a base, a reciprocating panel, two power-take-off (PTO) units with one or more generators to convert kinetic energy of waves or tidal currents to electricity, at least two gear transmissions operatively connected between the panel and the generators and at least two one-way clutch mechanisms to control the directions of rotation of the generators. The panel is arranged to rotate a half of the generators when rotating into one direction and another half of the generators when rotating into the opposite direction.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2022Date of Patent: August 8, 2023Assignee: AW-ENERGY OYInventor: Christopher Ridgewell
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Patent number: 11624346Abstract: An active resonance C-type buoyant flap wave energy converter includes a rigid frame, a flap, a mass center adjustment assembly and a power generation assembly. The rigid frame is connected to a marine facility, and includes a main body and a support shaft provided at a bottom thereof. The flap is swingingly arranged on the support shaft. The flap is located under water surface, and swings back and forth around the support shaft under an action of a wave. The mass center adjustment assembly is configured to adjust a mass center of the flap to make a natural period of the flap same as a wave period, so as to achieve a resonance between the flap and the wave. The power generation assembly is arranged on the support shaft and is located in the flap.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2021Date of Patent: April 11, 2023Assignee: WUHAN UNIVERSITYInventors: Yuanqi Cai, Yinquan Huo, Jianhui Liu, Xiangyu Shi, Yang Liu
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Patent number: 11608888Abstract: A method for driving a transmission mechanism output power in response to an anticipated fluid-pressure gradient field is provided. The method includes sensing the change of direction of pressure gradient field at a desired location from the different area of the transmission mechanism within fluid. The method further includes constructing fluid-pressure gradient field based upon isolation-fluid apparatus or low-density fluid space installed on a transmission mechanism within fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2017Date of Patent: March 21, 2023Inventor: Yanjun Che
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Patent number: 11486347Abstract: The invention relates to a method for obtaining energy from the Earth's gravitational force, in particular for producing a rotational movement, which method is designed in such a way that working bodies are introduced into a liquid column or into communicating liquid columns by introducing devices, the action of which is oriented toward one another, counter to the water pressure, in such a way that the force/energy needed for the introduction into the (one) liquid column is at least partly compensated by a force/energy resulting from the same or other liquid column. A device for producing rotational movement uses the method according to the invention.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2019Date of Patent: November 1, 2022Inventor: Zeki Akbayir
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Patent number: 11293398Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for WEC system for a wave energy converter. The system includes a buoyant object, a reaction body and a line coupling the reaction body and the buoyant object. The system further includes a drivetrain coupled to one of the buoyant object or reaction body. The drivetrain includes a sheave coupled to one of the buoyant object or reaction body and an actuator coupled to the sheave. The line is coupled to the sheave, wherein movement of the buoyant object relative to the reaction body applies a force to the sheave. The force on the sheave drives the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to apply a spring force.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2020Date of Patent: April 5, 2022Inventor: Timothy R Mundon
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Patent number: 11181091Abstract: A wave energy conversion system has a float and a power generation drum with a drum housing rotationally attached to the float by a shaft attachment. The shaft attachment allows a rotational movement of the drum housing and the float relative to each other. The drum housing holds a cable reel with a cable having a first end part connected to the cable reel and a second end part, where the cable reel is an integral part of or connected to the drum housing to rotate with the drum housing. The float can be positioned in the sea by having the second end part of the cable attached to a submerged structure or to the sea bed. When the float is positioned in the sea, the float may be moved by the waves, which movements cause a rotational movement of the drum housing with electric power being generated.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2017Date of Patent: November 23, 2021Assignee: RESEN WAVES APSInventor: Per Resen Steenstrup
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Patent number: 11174830Abstract: A floating wave energy converter intended to be installed in an aquatic environment comprising a surface, water and a bed, realized by a cylinder including an energy-production device, and connectors connected to anchors, wherein the connectors intersect.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2018Date of Patent: November 16, 2021Assignee: SEATURNSInventor: Vincent Tournerie
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Patent number: 11105313Abstract: A system in a water body uses buoyant force of gaseous Hydrogen and Oxygen to generate electrical power with one or more turbines that includes power resulting from the buoyant force while transporting the Hydrogen or Oxygen to a higher elevation, without loss of electrons, for conversion to electricity at the higher elevation. Conversion of Hydrogen and Oxygen to water through a Hydrogen Fuel Cell or by burning at the higher elevation may generate additional steam power, hydropower, or purified water. Portable submersible modules may transport the system below or above the water to and from the base of a plumbing portion of the system. The amount of gaseous fuel energy available at the higher elevation is not detrimentally impacted by the generation of electricity by the turbine.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2018Date of Patent: August 31, 2021Assignee: FOUR ELECTRONS LLCInventor: John Scott Perez
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Power generation systems based on thermal differences using slow-motion high-force energy conversion
Patent number: 11085425Abstract: An apparatus includes first and second tanks each configured to receive and store a refrigerant under pressure. The apparatus also includes a cylinder defining a space configured to receive the refrigerant from the first and second tanks. The apparatus further includes a piston passing into the cylinder and having a head, where the head divides the space within the cylinder into a first volume for the refrigerant from the first tank and a second volume for the refrigerant from the second tank. In addition, the apparatus includes a converter configured to translate linear movement of the piston into rotational motion and a generator configured to produce electrical power based on the rotational motion.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2019Date of Patent: August 10, 2021Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventor: Gregory W. Heinen -
Patent number: 11014016Abstract: An electric water desalination assembly for desalinating water without burning fossil fuels includes an evaporator and a renewable electrical power generation system. The renewable electrical power generation system is electrically coupled to the evaporator for providing power to the evaporator. The evaporator is fluidly coupled to a source of salt water for boiling the salt water into desalinated steam. Additionally, the evaporator is fluidly coupled to the water desalination system for processing the desalinated steam into freshwater. Additionally, the water desalinating system is fluidly coupled to a freshwater distribution system. In this way the freshwater distribution system receives freshwater from the water desalination system.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2019Date of Patent: May 25, 2021Inventor: Jay Dotter
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Patent number: 10815959Abstract: The present invention is a method of controlling a wave energy system (COM), wherein the force fex exerted by the waves on a mobile float of the wave energy system is estimated, then at least one dominant frequency ?ex of the force exerted by the waves on the mobile float is determined using an unscented Kalman filter (UKF), and the control (COM) of the wave energy system is determined by a variable-gain PI control law whose coefficients are a function of dominant frequency ?ex.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2018Date of Patent: October 27, 2020Assignee: IFP ENERGIES NOUVELLESInventors: Paolino Tona, Hoai-Nam Nguyen
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Patent number: 10495052Abstract: A wave energy converter includes a buoyant body and an acceleration tube attached thereto forming a working cylinder. Upper and lower openings in the acceleration tube allow water flow between the working cylinder and the water in which the acceleration tube is at least partially submerged. A working piston is reciprocable in the working cylinder and an energy converting device collects energy from the movements of the working piston relative to the buoyant body. A mooring system maintains the wave energy converter within a desired anchoring area and includes at least a first fastening device mounted on the buoyant body for attachment of a first mooring line to the buoyant body and a second fastening device mounted on the buoyant body for attachment of a second mooring line to the buoyant body. The mooring lines include first and second line sections, respectively, and at least one buoyant element attached therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2016Date of Patent: December 3, 2019Assignee: W4P Waves4Power ABInventors: Filip Alm, Lennart Claesson
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Patent number: 10465649Abstract: The invention relates to a method for obtaining energy from the Earth's gravitational force, in particular for producing a rotational movement, which method is designed in such a way that working bodies (7) are introduced into a liquid column (1) or into communicating liquid columns (1) by introducing devices (11), the action of which is oriented toward one another, counter to the water pressure, in such a way that the force/energy needed for the introduction into the (one) liquid column (1) is at least partly compensated by a force/energy resulting from the same or other liquid column (1). A device for producing rotational movement uses the method according to the invention.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2015Date of Patent: November 5, 2019Assignee: Akbayir Holding UGInventor: Zeki Akbayir
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Patent number: 9878265Abstract: A system for producing potable water and electrical power utilizing the difference in temperature between ambient air and deep, cold ocean water is disclosed. Cold water from depths of 2000 feet (610 meters) or more is pumped to a liquid/gas heat exchanger in the upper portion of a hollow cylinder. Ambient air currents are concentrated and diverted into the exchanger, becoming cooler and denser. Moisture condensing from the ambient air onto the cool surface of the heat exchanger is collected and channeled to storage or piped to shore. The air gains velocity before reaching a wind turbine near the bottom of the cylinder. This turbine is connected to a generator to extract the wind energy. This extracted energy is converted to electricity by the generator and sent to shore.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Inventor: Glen Truett Hendrix
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Patent number: 9878873Abstract: A power generation system including a partially enclosed container assembly housing a plurality of spherical balls at a container height disposed above a ground surface, each of the plurality of spherical balls having a ball weight. The power generation system also includes a conveyor assembly with a conveyor-drive system having a plurality of ball-catch members. The conveyor assembly includes a proximal end coupled to the container assembly, a distal end, and a conveyer length separating the proximal and distal ends. The conveyor assembly spans downwardly from the container assembly at a location below the container height and is operably configured, via the ball-catch members of the conveyor-drive system, to transport the spherical balls. A generator is operably coupled to the conveyor-drive system and is operably configured to produce electricity.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2015Date of Patent: January 30, 2018Inventor: Phillip Nordike Gordon
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Patent number: 9777702Abstract: A system and method for generating energy by exploiting changes in atmospheric pressure. A system is provided that includes a pair of submerged vessels, each vessel containing a fluid; a mechanism for alternatively raising and lowering the submerged vessels to cause the fluid to expand and contract; a system for capturing mechanical energy resulting from the expansion and/or contraction; and a system for converting the mechanical energy to electrical energy.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2013Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Inventor: Joshua E. Saxe
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Patent number: 9745952Abstract: The various embodiments disclosed herein provide a generalized system for extracting gravitational energy from the planet and provide for a general, pollution free, mass lifting and energy conversion system in which the laws of fluid flow, and in particular buoyancy and gravity are utilized to lift an arbitrary mass to a higher gravitational potential energy, where upon the increased potential energy can be converted to other forms of energy. Novel and non-obvious features of the fluid interface device, used to insert the buoyant object into the buoyant fluid, insure that the insertion energy is less than the potential energy gained by the object. The net increase in potential energy can be converted to other forms of energy such as electrical power or mechanical energy. It is shown in that energy gain is effectively extracted from the gravitational field of the planet without breaking the laws of conservation of energy.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2014Date of Patent: August 29, 2017Inventor: Doug Westmoreland
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Patent number: 9297350Abstract: A combined offshore system for generating electricity includes of an offshore windmill unit with a generator for extracting power from wind and transferring it into electricity, a electricity export cable connected to the windmill for exporting produced electricity to offshore or onshore consumers, and at least one offshore wave power unit for extracting power from waves. This offshore wave power unit is characterized in that electricity produced by the wave power unit is transferred via the same electricity export cable as the electricity generated by the windmill unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2013Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Assignee: SINGLE BUOY MOORINGS INC.Inventors: Hein Wille, Sophie Boureau
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Patent number: 9068551Abstract: A wave energy converter (10) comprises an energy absorption unit (100) arranged to absorb energy generated by movements of water when the wave energy converter is arranged in a pool of water, an energy accumulation unit (200) connected to the energy absorption unit, and a power generation unit (300) connected to the energy absorption unit. The energy accumulation unit is arranged to accumulate energy from the energy absorption unit when the energy absorption unit absorbs more power than the power generation unit generates and to dissipate energy to the power generation unit when the energy absorption unit absorbs less power than the power generation unit generates. By providing hydraulic components in these units, an efficient and flexible wave energy converter is provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: OCEAN HARVESTING TECHNOLOGIES ABInventors: Mikael Sidenmark, Torbjörn Andersson
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Publication number: 20150143805Abstract: Provided is a power generation/transmission device capable of obtaining stable power by utilizing rising and falling motion of rods and rolling motion of a spherical body. The power generation/transmission device includes: drive rods F1 to F3 capable of rising and falling in a vertical direction; a drive rotating disc 3 supported to be three-dimensionally rotatable about a first universal joint 41 to rotate on a conical trajectory along a circular track of a first angle restricting plate 43 disposed below the drive rotating disc 3; and a first spherical body 32 placed on the drive rotating disc 3 to be capable of rolling motion. The drive rotating disc 3 is rotated by the rising and falling motion of the drive rods F1 to F3 and the rolling motion of the first spherical body 32.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2013Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventor: Kazue YAMAMOTO
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Publication number: 20150107238Abstract: This disclosure includes various embodiments of apparatuses for encapsulating and stopping a flowing mass of fluid (e.g., liquid such as water, or gas such as air) to extract the kinetic energy from the mass, and for exhausting the mass once stopped (spent mass, from which kinetic energy has been extracted). This disclosure also includes various embodiments of systems comprising a plurality of the present apparatuses coupled together and/or one or more of the present apparatuses in combination with one or more flow resistance modifiers (FRMs). This disclosure also includes various embodiments of methods of extracting kinetic energy from a flowing mass of fluid (e.g., liquid such as water, or gas such as air) by stopping the mass, and for exhausting the mass once stopped (spent mass, from which kinetic energy has been extracted). This disclosure also includes embodiments of mechanical energy-storage or accumulation devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2013Publication date: April 23, 2015Inventors: Lawrence G. BROWN, Gregory A.M. BROWN
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Patent number: 9003785Abstract: The invention relates to a facility for converting water power into mechanical or electrical energy, including at least one hydraulic turbine, a water reservoir (R), and a pipe (5) for supplying the turbine with water (E) from the water reservoir. The facility also includes a device (200) submerged in the water reservoir and suitable for imposing an ascending movement on a water flow (E0) moving in the water reservoir (R) towards the opening (51) of the supply pipe (5), and a gas-collecting means (400), arranged above a portion (V200) of the device (200) in which the ascending movement of the water flow (E0) takes place.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2010Date of Patent: April 14, 2015Assignee: Alstom Renewable TechnologiesInventor: Paul Toulouse
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Patent number: 8981582Abstract: A submerged power generator comprises a hull that defines an air space. A weighted container is allowed to fall within the air space during a power generating stroke. The container interacts with an apparatus so as to drive a generator during the power stroke. After the power stroke the container is ejected from the hull into the surrounding body of water. The container is made buoyant and thus floats upwardly during a buoyant stroke. The buoyant container is retrieved as it approaches the top of the hull and reintroduced into the hull for another power generating cycle.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2010Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Inventor: Kurt Paul Grossman
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Patent number: 8973359Abstract: A wave powered generating device includes a floating vessel with onboard pendulum mechanism, an anchor with a mooring chain connected with the vessel, a lever arm, an upstanding post having a tip connected with the lever arm and a foot coupled with a universal coupler, a pendulum moveably mounted on the lever arm being erected above a platform deck of the vessel by the upstanding post, a gear mechanism incorporating with a centrifugal flywheel coupled with the universal coupler via a transmission mechanism for delivery of momentum of the pendulum, and a power generating mechanism driven by the gear mechanism. Under undulating waves, the pendulum, being mounted on the lever arm, sways laterally around an axis of the upstanding post, causing the upstanding post to rotate hence delivering the momentum of the pendulum to drive the power generating mechanism via a transmission shaft and the gear mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2013Date of Patent: March 10, 2015Inventor: Man Wai Chan
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Publication number: 20150020518Abstract: A Gravity-Buoyancy Object Turbine (GBOT) is provided to generate kinetic energy using gravitational force and buoyancy force exist in the nature. The turbine of the invention has a gravity (air) chamber and a buoyancy (liquid) chamber, arranged side-by-side in such a way that both gravity and buoyancy exerts force directly and continuously on the shaft/drum/belt to cause the rotation of the turbine. The turbine blades (objects) forms the shape of a wheel, which enables leak-proof and resistance-free transfer between air and liquid chambers. The objects could be cylindrical and rotating by its own. The material, size and shape of key components and related control mechanisms of GBOT are optimized to deliver maximum performance.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2013Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventor: V. Manoj
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Publication number: 20150013325Abstract: The invention is a wave energy device which optimizes energy conversion from waves with a stable submerged platform coupled to compliant chain of floats (“pods”) which are connected to the platform by piston pumps. Wave action drives pumps to deliver pressurized water to a hydro turbine coupled to an electric generator for delivery of electric power to shore via a submarine cable. Alternatively, the pressurized water may be delivered to shore through pipes on the ocean floor, to generate electric power, also as input flow for reverse osmosis potable water production and for cooling applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2014Publication date: January 15, 2015Applicant: Dehlsen Associates, LLCInventor: James G.P. Dehlsen
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Patent number: 8920135Abstract: A multipurpose gravity air compressor employs a piston (40) traveling down a cylinder (129) by the force of gravity compressing compressible fluid (140) in one or more compressible fluid chambers (137). Compressed fluid is emptied out of compressible fluid chambers (137) through compressible fluid exit (118) for use locally or downstream. A transporter such as transporter assembly 50 grabs piston (40) and recovers it back to opening (124) at predetermined intervals and deposits piston (40) into cylinder (129) to start another cycle. Multipurpose gravity air compressor through the generation of heat through compressing compressible fluid (140) also enjoys being a heat source. Air compressor 200 can provide a means for producing energy through compressing compressible fluid (140) and a source of heat for generating steam to produce electricity on-site or downstream. Water (condensation), possibly thousands of gallons a year, could be another rainfall-independent water source advantage enjoyed.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2013Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Inventor: Dennis Eugene Daily
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Patent number: 8919111Abstract: A device for obtaining internal energy from liquid by utilizing buoyancy includes: an inner body (2); a sealing strip (3); a shell body (5); an axle (1) and liquid, wherein the sealing strip (3) is mounted between the shell body (5) and the inner body (2), a liquid entrance (6) is provided at a bottom portion of the shell body (5), the inner body (2) is connected to the axle (1), an energy transformer is connected to the axle (1) or the shell body (5). Internal energy not used in the liquid is transformed into mechanical energy by a combination of the liquid, the inner body (2) and the axle (1). The present invention also provides a method for obtaining internal energy from liquid by utilizing buoyancy.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Inventor: Rongjun Sun
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Patent number: 8910475Abstract: A buoyancy power generating apparatus includes: a tank adapted to receive liquid therein; a buoyancy mechanism disposed in the tank and including a bladder support and a bladder supported on the bladder support; a vertical support disposed outwardly of the tank; a weight unit supported movably on the vertical support; and a transmission coupled to the buoyancy mechanism and the weight unit so that the weight unit can be driven by the bladder to move upwardly during upward movement of the bladder and that the weight unit can be moved downwardly by gravity when the bladder is deflated.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2012Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: Jun Fu Clean Energy Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Chin Chiu
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Publication number: 20140352292Abstract: A machine comprises a tank defining a liquid chamber for holding a liquid. A rotor is located in the liquid chamber and is mounted such that the rotor is able to rotate relative to the tank. The rotor comprises a plurality of positively buoyant first elements and a plurality of negatively buoyant second elements. The liquid chamber is able to hold the liquid so that the rotor is immersed in the liquid and the first and second elements are arranged so that the positive buoyancy of the first elements and the negative buoyancy of the second elements are able to cause the rotor to rotate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2012Publication date: December 4, 2014Inventor: John Gahan
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Patent number: 8887497Abstract: An apparatus has a tank with an open top, a tank wall, and a closed bottom. A first ringwall extends from the bottom such that a first annular space is defined by the first ringwall and the tank wall, and a second annular space is defined by the first ringwall. A second ringwall extends in the second annular space, and defines a third annular space between the first ringwall and the second ringwall, and a cylindrical space. An air conduit extends through the cylindrical space. A pod disposed into the cylindrical space has a closed chamber and a displacement chamber. An inner riser disposed in the third annular space has an open bottom, and rests onto the inner ringwall. An outer riser rests onto the outer ringwall and is disposed in the first annular space and has a closed top, a wall, and an open bottom.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2011Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Inventor: Wayne S. Travis
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Patent number: 8863511Abstract: This is a low-cost, ingenious, high-efficiency energy producing system from hydrokinetic energy in water waves, currents and tides. Cost advantages are due to the use of existing bridge structures to mount the water energy converter to withstand fierce wind and water forces.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Inventor: Paul M Swamidass
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Publication number: 20140298793Abstract: An electrical power generating system is connected to a sewer for conveying waste water to a sanitary treatment station. Waste water is propelled through the sewer line by pumping equipment which simultaneously pulverizes most large objects carried by the waste water. The waste water drives one or more water-operated turbines. The turbines are operatively connected to electrical power generators for producing electrical power and dispersing the power through an electrical power transmission system.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2014Publication date: October 9, 2014Inventor: Jeffrey L. Cripps
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Patent number: 8839616Abstract: An integrated wind and hydro power generation system includes at least one wind turbine generator device configured to generate output power from a common cavity being occupied by water and air. The hydro generator device is powered by water flow, while the wind generator is primarily powered by the vacuum occurring with the water's exit from the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Inventor: Jose A. Perez
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Patent number: 8839618Abstract: A buoyancy engine is provided for use in a saltwater environment. The engine includes a gas filled housing and a buoyancy chamber in the housing. An elastomeric membrane is positioned between the buoyancy chamber interior and the housing interior. A semi-permeable membrane is provided between the buoyancy chamber interior and the saltwater environment. Two electrodes can be positioned with both electrodes in the buoyancy chamber or with one electrode being positioned in the buoyancy chamber and the other being positioned in the saltwater environment. A controller is joined to at least one of the electrodes for controlling an electrical potential between the two electrodes. A power source provides power to the controller.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2012Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: John B. Blottman, III, Barbar J. Akle
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Patent number: 8833070Abstract: A hydro-pneumatic cylinder for converting buoyancy energy of compressed gas into mechanical energy. The cylinder can include a pair of end plates disposed at opposite ends of the cylinder and a drive axle extending longitudinally through the cylinder and passing through the center of each end plate. The cylinder can also include a core support coupled to each end plate and centrally disposed in the cylinder and a plurality of vanes for promoting a low-drag flow. Each of the plurality of vanes is coupled to the core support and the pair of end plates. A bucket is defined by the core support, two of the plurality of vanes, and the pair of end plates. The cylinder further includes a vane support coupled to the plurality of vanes and the core support. The vane support defines a plurality of openings formed therein through which a gas can pass for equalizing pressure in the bucket.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2011Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Gravitair Rights, Inc.Inventors: Gavin P. Wilson, Michael J. Wilson, Conner C. Wilson
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Publication number: 20140250879Abstract: The WGLPP is a non-fluvial/dam, complete micro Hydroelectric Power Plant that can be an attached/integrated installation, a non-attached installation, or a portable installation (vehicle) that will continuously (24/7) power any residential, commercial, or military building. The WGLPP is driven by a water gravity energy loop (potential energy to kinetic energy to potential energy. . . ), which is clean (zero emissions and zero environmental impact) and renewable energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2013Publication date: September 11, 2014Inventor: Oscar Edgardo Moncada
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Patent number: 8826657Abstract: Systems and methods for collecting, storing, and conveying aqueous thermal energy are disclosed. In a particular embodiment, a floating film retains solar energy in a volume of water located under the film. A series of curtains hanging from a bottom surface of the film define a passage between a periphery of the film and a center of the film to direct the heated water at the center of the film. The heated water is circulated to deliver the heat to a dissociation reactor and/or donor substance. The donor is conveyed to the reactor and dissociated.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2013Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: McAllister Technologies, LLCInventor: Roy Edward McAlister
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Publication number: 20140216025Abstract: A wave energy converter for converting energy from a wave motion of a fluid into a different form of energy includes at least one rotor that is coupled to at least one energy converter. The rotor has a rotor base that has two sides with respect to the rotational plane of the rotor. At least one coupling body is attached to each side of the rotor base.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2012Publication date: August 7, 2014Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Benjamin Hagemann, Nik Scharmann, Jos Ritzen
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Patent number: 8796877Abstract: A liquid power generation apparatus includes a movable liquid tank, a linear-rotation conversion mechanism, liquid introducing device, controlling device, liquid discharging device, liquid tank returning device, and a generator. The movable liquid tank can vertically move. The linear-rotation conversion mechanism includes a male screw shaft and a female screw body and generates a rotation output in tandem with the vertical movement of the movable liquid tank. The liquid introducing device introduces a liquid when the movable liquid tank is provided at an upper position. The controlling device moves down the movable liquid tank having the liquid therein from the upper position. The liquid discharging device discharges the liquid when the movable liquid tank is lowered. The liquid tank returning device moves up the lowered movable liquid tank and returns it to its original position. The generator generates electricity by using a rotation output from the linear-rotation conversion mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2012Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Inventor: Tooru Shinohara
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Patent number: 8796870Abstract: An electric power generator having two water tanks, and two chambers movable up and down inside the two water tanks respectively in opposite directions. Each chamber has a top wall having an air outlet covered by a pressure valve, and a bottom wall having a plurality of apertures serving as both water inlets and outlets. An electric motor drivably connected to two chains from which the two chambers are hung respectively. Upper and lower electromagnetic holding devices provided at top and bottom of each water tank for holding or releasing the chambers. Continuous up and down movement of the two chambers in opposite directions by buoyancy and gravity alternately and continuously drives the electric motor to generate electric power. A method of generating electric power is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2011Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Inventor: Wai Hing Cheung
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Patent number: 8789365Abstract: An energy conversion system is provided including an annular member disposed around a shaft and at least partially defining a first radial flow passage that is fluidly coupled to a wave chamber and a second radial flow passage that is fluidly coupled to a port. A first plurality of nozzle vanes may extend at least partially through the first radial flow passage and may be configured to impart a first exit swirl angle in a fluid. A second plurality of nozzle vanes may extend at least partially through the second radial flow passage and may be configured to impart a second exit swirl angle in the fluid. A turbine wheel may be coupled to the shaft and disposed radially between the shaft and the annular member. The turbine wheel may define an axial flow passage fluidly coupled to the first and second radial flow passages and may include impulse blades.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2010Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Dresser-Rand CompanyInventor: William C. Maier
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Publication number: 20140202146Abstract: A method for operating a wave energy converter for converting energy from a wave motion of a fluid into a different form of energy includes at least one rotor and at least one energy converter that is coupled to the at least one rotor. A first torque that acts on the at least one rotor is generated by the wave motion, and a second torque (M1) that acts on the at least one rotor is generated by the at least one energy converter. The second torque (M1) is specified during a control of the energy converter.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 24, 2012Publication date: July 24, 2014Applicant: Robert Bosch BmbHInventors: Benjamin Hagemann, Nik Scharmann, Daniel Seiler-Thull, Michael Hilsch
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Publication number: 20140196450Abstract: An electric generation system includes a plurality of connected water filled chambers, each having a pivoting door that sequentially covers and exposes an access port through which buoyant objects travel to an ascending water filled tube leading to a bucket conveyor that drives a generator. The pivoting doors are synchronized so that one is opened while the other is closed. The doors are opened and closed by hemispherical cams driven by a motor. The pivoting doors propel buoyant objects towards the tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2013Publication date: July 17, 2014Inventors: Roger A. Boyd, Danny W. Boyd