Method and apparatus for generating buoyancy power via electrolysis
US4084375A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 3, 1977 |
| Grant date | Apr 18, 1978 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 3, 1997 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/20
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for generating buoyancy power comprising harnessing the buoyant energy contained in hydrogen and oxygen gases which are electrolytically generated under water. A first wheel is submerged in water with a second wheel submerged vertically beneath the first wheel. An endless belt engages and is stretched between the outer surfaces of the first and second wheels and is adapted to rotate the wheels when the belt is driven. A power generator is coupled to one of the wheels and is drivable therewith. As the hydrogen and oxygen gas bubbles are generated at the respective submerged electrodes of an electrolytic generator, the rising bubbles are separately caught in two columns of receptacles along one side of the belt thereby displacing the water from the receptacles and rendering them buoyant. The buoyant receptacles then drive the belt and the first and second wheels thereby causing the power generator to produce an electric current. The hydrogen and oxygen gases are then separately collected in submerged hoods as they are released from the respective columns of buoyant receptacles as the belt and receptacles move over the first wheel. Also provided are two funnels …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.