Hydroelectric energy systems, and related components and methods
US10544775B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 19, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jan 28, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P70/50
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hydroelectric energy system includes a stator including a first plurality of electricity-generating elements. The system also includes a rotor including a second plurality of electricity-generating elements. The rotor is disposed radially outward of an outer circumferential surface of the stator and is configured to rotate around the stator about an axis of rotation. The rotor is a flexible belt structure having a variable thickness and extending along a portion of an axial length of the stator. The system further includes at least one hydrodynamic bearing mechanism configured to support the rotor relative to the stator during rotation of the rotor around the stator. The at least one hydrodynamic bearing mechanism includes a bearing surface made of wood or a composite material.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.