Fluid reaction surfaces (i.e. – impellers) – Float supported
Patent
1980-11-13
1983-09-27
Powell, Jr., Everette A.
Fluid reaction surfaces (i.e., impellers)
Float supported
415 7, 416117, 416139, F03B 1312
Patent
active
044065868
DESCRIPTION:
BRIEF SUMMARY
The present invention relates to a device for converting the energy of a fluid in motion.
In known devices of this type, with the aim for example of collecting energy from waves by turbines, the essential problem to be solved is that of the periodic change of direction of the water.
The solution generally adopted consists of arranging panels, movable in rotation around axes perpendicular to a transmission shaft, so as to form a sort of variable pitch propeller which can be reversed. It is known to achieve this pitch reversal automatically by spacing the center of thrust on the panel from the axis of rotation of this panel. At each reversal of the direction thrust of the water, the panel begins by tilting in the right direction.
The limitation of the amplitude of swing of the panel can be obtained by fixed stops. However a propeller with constant pitch (in one or other direction), is then obtained, which does not achieve the optimum yield when the water flow varies. Springs with a tendency to resist the swing may also be provided. The tilt of the panels is then dependent on the water flow, but the optimum tilt is only achieved very imperfectly. Moreover, it is a very fragile construction, which in practice is incompatible with ocean operation.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a device for collecting energy with constantly procures an optimum yield from the panel, whilst being of robust and economical construction.
According to the invention, the device for converting energy of the fluid in movement into mechanical energy comprises a rotor formed from panels mounted on a shaft by rotary axles permitting the variation in the tilt of these panels with respect to the shaft, notably under the effect of the variations in the speed of the fluid, and it is characterized in that these panels comprise means for ballast and/or flotation of predetermined mass and position to confer on them a planing wing mass structure relative to the fluid, whose angle of incidence adapts itself automatically to the speed of the fluid.
Not only is the use of stops or of a spring or of any stroke limiting device thus avoided, but it ensures that the panel will take up the optimum tilt under the action of a fluid flow parallel to the shaft, to confer maximum efficiency on the machine.
According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the ballast means comprise a weight fixed to the panel by a post. These weights may suffice to localize the centre of gravity of the panel in order to achieve the desired result.
It is also possible to provide on each a float which, in under-water operation, completes or replaces the action of the weight.
According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, several panels are mounted rotatably on the same axle, independent of one another in rotation, and each carries a predetermined ballast.
As the linear speed of the various panels varies according to their distance from the shaft, each of them takes up its optimum incidence as a function of this speed, independently of the others, and the whole unit approximates to the shape of an ideal helicoid.
According to an improved embodiment of the invention, the panels are distributed into several rotors staged along the shaft, the shaft comprising a corresponding number of coaxial tubular elements, independent of one another in rotation and each connected to a rotor.
The recovery of energy is thus multiplied economically. Moreover it is possible to rotate the various stages in different directions to eliminate counter-torques.
According to a first application of the invention, the shaft is connected by a mechanical transmission to an electric generator housed in a floating fluid-tight chamber, and, in operation, it extends vertically below said chamber.
The chamber follows the movements of the swell at the surface and drives the panels in an alternating upward movement in calm deep water.
According to a second application of the invention, the shaft is connected by a mechanical transmission to an electric generator, the whole being hou
REFERENCES:
patent: 583171 (1897-05-01), Curry
patent: 611098 (1898-09-01), Blazer
patent: 1823169 (1931-09-01), Schneider
patent: 3988592 (1976-10-01), Porter
patent: 4045148 (1977-08-01), Morin
patent: 4221538 (1980-09-01), Wells
patent: 4313711 (1982-02-01), Lee
de la Roche Kerandraon Olivier
Guillaume Pierre
Paroldi Daniel
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