Apparatus for generating electricity from flowing fluids
US6153944A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 9, 1999 |
| Grant date | Nov 28, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 9, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/70
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for generating electricity from aeolian oscilaltions caused by the flow of a fluid such as wind or water. An immobile beam extends between two piers, and a movable vane is disposed around the beam in parallel relation thereto. The vane is generally tubular, having a generally cylindrical or foil-shaped cross section. The movement of a fluid, such as wind or deep ocean tidal flow, past the vane induces aeolian oscillation in the vane, so that the vane moves to-and-fro, with respect to the beam, in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow. Rods and a crankshaft may connect the vane to a generator mounted upon the beam, so that the movement of the vane is converted into electricity. Alternatively, electricity can be generated from the movement of the vane by a field coil on the vane inducing electrical current in induction wires mounted upon the immobile beam.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.