Energy conversion systems and methods
US10060473B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 2016 |
| Grant date | Aug 28, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 4, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P70/50
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An energy conversion system includes a stationary structure and a rotatable structure configured to rotate relative to the stationary structure. The system includes at least one blade member mounted to and extending radially outward from the rotatable structure. The blade member is configured to interact with fluid currents to cause the rotatable structure to rotate about an axis of rotation. The system includes a first magnetic bearing component disposed on the rotatable structure and a second magnetic bearing component disposed on the stationary structure. The magnetic bearing components have an aligned position in which the components are axially aligned along the axis of rotation with respect to each other. Axial displacement of the magnetic bearing components from the aligned position generates a magnetic field between the components that provides an axially-directed restoring force between the rotatable structure and the stationary structure to reposition the components to the aligned position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.