US 8,142,154 B2 · Oscillating energy capture mechanism

Abstract

Two or more pivots are mounted vertically or horizontally onto a rotary or stationary support structure or platform, and between these pivots, a flexible sheet of material is suspended. The mechanism operates via oscillation of the pivots that results from the upwind or upstream pivot determining the side of the flexible sheet the low-pressure (lift) area favors. The downwind or downstream pivot captures the energy from the lift generated. The mechanism makes use of adjustable pivot arm lengths and pivot spacing to tension or relax the flexible sheet, enabling control in various wind and water speeds. Alternate embodiments make use of cord attachments instead of rigid pivots, a double pivot that engages two flexible sheets in opposing action, circular/partial hemispherical sheets than enable omni-directional operation from a fixed embodiment, and shallow water body capability.

Claims17

Dependent claims

An energy capture device, comprising:

(a) a plurality of elongated support members, aligned and joined at spaced locations to the surface of a platform and said elongated support members joined so as to be able to pivot about their own longitudinal axis;
(b) a plurality of elongated members joined to said elongated support members so as to support a flexible sheet of material between said elongated members;
(c) said flexible sheet of material joined to the free ends of said elongated members;
(d) at least one energy conversion device;
and
(e) means for controllably coupling said elongated members to said at least one energy conversion device.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Oscillating energy capture mechanism

Life of this patent

Oscillating energy capture mechanism

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims17