Floating, water current-driven electrical power generation system
US7223137B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 15, 2005 |
| Grant date | May 29, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 29, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/20
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A floating, water current-driven electrical power generation system has a hull supporting one or more paddle wheels. The unit is tethered in a stream or river so that the moving water turns the paddle wheel coupled to an electrical generator. A transmission matches stream flow conditions to the electrical generator. Stabilizing fins on the hull bottom help keep the hull properly aligned in the stream's current. Built-in leg structures are sized to prevent bottoming of the paddle wheel during periods of low water in the stream or river. Mounts are provided for an outboard motor useful for propelling the unit to a desired location. Larger versions of the system may be equipped with a boat mooring facility allowing a boat to propel the unit to a desired position in a stream or river.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.