Systems and processes for pipeline transport of water using micro hydroelectric turbines to reduce electricity drawn from third-party electrical power grids
US11894685B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 8, 2022 |
| Grant date | Feb 6, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 8, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02J2300/28
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Disclosed herein are unique systems and processes to transport water or fluids within pipelines by generating electricity along various portions of the water pipeline route using micro hydroelectric turbines (also referred to herein as mini-turbines) placed in-line inside of (or adjacent to/parallel with) the pipeline at one or more distances. The mini-turbines are connected via wiring systems to the pump stations at the bottom of declines in the pipeline to generate electricity via gravity flow of the water through the pipeline, and then provide such electricity to a pump to propel or pump the water up inclined portions of the pipeline route. In this manner, water or fluids can be transported from a first location to a second location along significant distances through a pipeline while reducing the electrical consumption from a third-party electrical power grid.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.