Variable speed reconfigurable pump/turbine clusters
US12292026B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 13, 2022 |
| Grant date | May 6, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 13, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF05B2270/506
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A “hydraulic rotating machinery” (“HRM”) system provides optimal energy efficiency over a very wide conditions of service (“COS”) range by configuring a plurality of variable speed HRMs in a “cluster.” The HRMs are interconnected by one or more valves that can be actuated by a controller to configure and vary a flow path through which a process fluid flows from an inlet to an outlet. By actively selecting which of the HRMs are included in the flow path, the interconnections therebetween, and the operating speeds thereof, the controller ensures that the HRM cluster continues to operate at optimal efficiency as the COS fluctuates over a very wide range. The HRMs can be identical to each other, or can vary in design. The HRM system can be implemented for storage and retrieval of green energy. The controller can also monitor the health of the cluster and/or of the associated process.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.