Turbine array
US5825094A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 13, 1996 |
| Grant date | Oct 20, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 13, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/20
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hydroelectric power generating module comprises an upper housing section and a lower base section connected to the upper housing. The upper housing has a plurality of generators situated therewithin, and the lower base has a plurality of water flow paths extending therethrough. Each water flow path comprises an upstream water inlet, a downstream draft tube, and a distributor disposed intermediate the draft tube and the water inlet. The water inlets are defined by a plurality of horizontal members interconnected with a plurality of vertical members to form an array of water tubes having generally parallel axes. A plurality of turbines is provided wherein each turbine has a runner rotatably mounted within an associated water flow path downstream of an associated distributor. The runners are mechanically coupled to the generators for generating hydroelectric power by rotation of the runners when water travels through the water flow paths. The interconnected members form a sturdy but lightweight reinforcing bulkhead structure upstream of the runners for guiding the water flow to the runners while carrying hydraulic and gravitational loads on the module. Flap gates may be associated w…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.