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US 8,890,353 B2Granted
Power generating hydroconveyor
AssigneeFrank Patrick Cunnane
InventorFrank Patrick Cunnane
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Abstract
Hydroconveyors are described which utilize magnetic levitation or magnetic suspension to support a collection of conveyor elements. The hydroconveyors are located above or partially within a flowstream such as a river. Additional versions of the hydroconveyors are described which include velocity increasing waterways located upstream of an end of the hydroconveyor. The various hydroconveyors can be used in conjunction with electrical generators to provide electrical power.
Claims9
A hydroconveyor system adapted for placement in a flowstream, the hydroconveyor system comprising:
- a longitudinal frame including a first distal end and a second distal end;
- a track extending along at least a portion of the length of the frame between the first end and the second end of the frame, the track defining a continuous and closed loop;
- a plurality of conveyor elements movably disposed and retained in the track, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of conveyor elements include outwardly extending members for engaging the flowstream;
- and
- means for magnetically supporting the plurality of conveyor elements with regard to the track.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.