In-pipe hydro-electric power system and turbine
US7959411B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 7, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 13, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S415/907
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A generally spherical turbine configured to rotate transversely within a cylindrical pipe under the power of fluid flowing either direction therethrough is operatively coupled with a rotating machine or generator to produce electricity. In one embodiment, the blades of the spherical turbine curve in an approximately 180 degree arc in a plane that is at an inclined angle relative to the rotational axis of a central shaft. In another embodiment, a deflector is provided upstream of the spherical turbine and within the cylindrical pipe to control flow through the spherical turbine by shielding a part thereof. The blades of the spherical turbine are airfoil in cross section to optimize hydrodynamic flow, to minimize cavitation, and to maximize conversion from axial to rotating energy.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.