US 12,612,891 B2 · Hydroelectric power generation utilizing tidal flows and coriolis force

Abstract

A system and method for harnessing and converting tidal energy into electricity utilizes the predictable nature of tidal phenomena. The system captures the Coriolis force, an inertial force imparted to a moving fluid by Earth's rotation, through a low-head turbine. The system creates a potential water column difference using multiple reservoirs and a tide capture/release algorithm. Water flows down this gradient through the turbine chamber to a lower potential energy reservoir, regulated by pump-assisted buoyant valve locks. The turbine design captures the summated rotational energy from the rotating water body created by the forced vortex and the Coriolis force as it exits the turbine chamber. This system provides a reliable, environmentally friendly, and virtually endless source of energy.

Claims19

Dependent claims

A method for harnessing and converting tidal energy into electricity, the method comprising:

providing a system comprising:
a turbine housing;
a vortex chamber encased within the housing;
one or more reservoir inlets in fluid communication with the vortex chamber, the one or more reservoir inlets configured in the turbine housing spatially below the vortex chamber;
a central conduit circumferentially positioned around the vortex chamber;
one or more reservoir outlets extend spatially upwards from the central conduit, the one or more reservoir outlets are in fluid communication with the central conduit;
a plurality of directional inlets, spaced apart from each other, extend from the central conduit and open in the vortex chamber;
and
a turbine positioned within the vortex chamber and operationally coupled to a generator;
and
generating electricity from the system using a potential water column difference between a plurality of reservoirs.

8 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Hydroelectric power generation utilizing tidal flows and coriolis force

Life of this patent

Hydroelectric power generation utilizing tidal flows and coriolis force

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19