Modular in-conduit generator for harnessing energy from circumferential flow
AssigneeVortex Flow, Inc.
InventorEugene M. Natarius
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An electrical generator module for harnessing the energy of fluid flowing in a channel subject to gravitational and centripetal forces. The electrical generator module includes a stationary casing portion and a runner portion rotationally coupled to the stationary casing portion, with the runner portion including a set of blades adapted to interact with the fluid. A support arrangement is adapted to secure the stationary casing portion to the interior of the channel in place such that it is prevented from rotating. An electrical energy generator is mechanically coupled to the runner portion and adapted to convert rotational motion of the runner portion into electrical energy.
Claims11
An electrical generator module for harnessing the energy of fluid flowing in a channel subject to gravitational and centripetal forces, the electrical generator module comprising:
- a cylindrical shell portion that facilitates installation of the electrical generator module within the flow channel, the cylindrical shell portion including a top end and a bottom end, the top end and bottom end each fitting within the interior of the flow channel, and wherein the cylindrical shell portion defines an interior space and includes a cylindrical exterior surface, the cylindrical exterior surface having a form factor corresponding to an interior surface of the flow channel;
- a stationary casing portion rigidly secured to the cylindrical shell portion and situated within the interior space defined by the cylindrical shell portion;
- a runner portion rotationally coupled to the stationary casing portion, the runner portion including a set of blades adapted to interact with the fluid;
- a support arrangement adapted to secure the cylindrical shell portion to the interior of the channel such that the cylindrical shell portion is prevented from rotating;
- and
- an electrical energy generator mechanically coupled to the runner portion and adapted to convert rotational motion of the runner portion into electrical energy.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.