CA2644792C - Tidal energy structure - Google Patents
Tidal energy structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2644792C CA2644792C CA2644792A CA2644792A CA2644792C CA 2644792 C CA2644792 C CA 2644792C CA 2644792 A CA2644792 A CA 2644792A CA 2644792 A CA2644792 A CA 2644792A CA 2644792 C CA2644792 C CA 2644792C
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- Prior art keywords
- tidal
- containment
- turbine
- currents
- energy
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Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
- F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
- F03B13/12—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
- F03B13/26—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using tide energy
- F03B13/264—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using tide energy using the horizontal flow of water resulting from tide movement
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
- E02B9/00—Water-power plants; Layout, construction or equipment, methods of, or apparatus for, making same
- E02B9/08—Tide or wave power plants
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05B—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO WIND, SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS, TO MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS COVERED BY SUBCLASSES F03B, F03D AND F03G
- F05B2240/00—Components
- F05B2240/10—Stators
- F05B2240/13—Stators to collect or cause flow towards or away from turbines
- F05B2240/133—Stators to collect or cause flow towards or away from turbines with a convergent-divergent guiding structure, e.g. a Venturi conduit
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/30—Energy from the sea, e.g. using wave energy or salinity gradient
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Oceanography (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
Abstract
The disclosed invention is a tidal energy structure capable of capturing the kinetic energy of tidal currents. The tidal energy structure is composed of containment walls located in open ocean waters and arranged in the form of an hourglass. The two open ends of the structure face the ebbing and flooding tidal currents and the two narrow ends lead into a turbine compartment. The shape of the structure is such that the containment walls funnel the tidal currents into the central turbine compartment where a turbine apparatus is then able to convert the kinetic energy of the currents into electrical power. A key component of the structure is that it is able to capture the kinetic energy of both ebbing and flooding tidal currents.
Description
Derek Foran page 2 SPECIFICATION
TECHNICAL FIELD:
This invention is a specific structure which has as its purpose the production of electrical power by the capture of tidal kinetic energy.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
There are two general ways in which power may be produced from tides: by the use of impoundment ponds (capture of potential energy) and by placing water turbines directly in tidal currents (capture of kinetic energy).
The first way, impoundment ponds, involves the gradual capture and release of water. By opening and closing the entry to the pond, a water height differential between the ocean and pond can be established. This differential is then used to allow water to fall, driving turbines and producing power. There are many different tidal power plants, including those of Canadian patent 1170960, filed September 14 1982, and Canadian patent 2537578, filed July 10 2004, which use variations of this method. Although existing tidal power plants utilizing impoundment ponds have been successful in producing power from the energy of the tides, they do face problems, most notably high cost and lack of adequate power plant locations.
The first problem, high cost, is mainly due to the large expenses in constructing the containment walls of the impoundment ponds. Similarly to hydroelectric dams, these containment walls must be very thick and able to support great loads caused by the water level differentials between pond and ocean. The installation and materials costs of these walls can prevent the construction of a tidal power station from being economically viable.
The second problem, lack of proper locations, is due to the very specific physical conditions which many tidal power plants need to be economically and environmentally viable. Ideally, most containment pond tidal power stations are located in an inlet to reduce the length of the containment walls and subsequent costs. Although inlets of correct dimensions for impoundment pond power stations are fairly common, they must also be located in a geographical area with large high to low tide differentials. Locations satisfying both these previous conditions are rare thus limiting the widespread use of tidal power stations. Some tidal power plants, such as that of Canadian patent 2537578, try to deal with the limited amount of viable locations by making it possibie for the plant to be located offshore or simply along the coast (not necessarily in an inlet). These power stations solve the problem of having a limited amount of proper inlets - however another problem is created. By doing this, they increase the size of the containment walls needed and the economic viability of constructing Derek Foran page 3 the power station is lowered.
Another problem that all tidal power stations have to deal with is their destructive impact on the environment. Coastal tidal power stations are especially problematic because they have a profound negative effect on coastal ecosystems which can often be very sensitive. By placing the station offshore, the negative environmental impact, though not totally eliminated, can be reduced.
So far we have seen that tidal power stations using impoundment ponds face many problems including: high cost, lack of proper locations and negative impact on the environment. The second way of extracting energy from the tides is to place water turbines directly in tidal currents (subsequently we will call this the direct current turbine method).
This method has been widely used and is probably the simplest type of tidal power plant. Like impoundment ponds, turbines placed directly in tidal currents have their advantages and disadvantages. The direct current turbine method usually costs less to construct than a large scale impoundment pond because of the lack of expensive containment walls. Despite this, many possible direct current turbine placements are not economically viable because the magnitudes of the tides, and the subsequent power output of the turbines, are not high enough to offset construction costs and maintenance of the turbines. This fact has limited the construction of direct current turbines to locations where the timing and magnitudes of the currents are near ideal. There are simply not enough suitable locations in the world to make direct current turbines a substantial source of power. Another problem that arises with direct current turbines, similarly to impoundment ponds, is their negative impact on wildlife. Though they do not greatly interfere with nature due to sheer size like impoundment ponds, they can have severe negative environmental impacts because they are in direct contact with aquatic species. In direct current turbines there is nothing separating the turbines from the open ocean therefore it would be possible for ocean creatures such as whales, seals and fish to be injured by the turbines or have their breeding and feeding grounds disturbed.
As we have seen, both the impoundment pond and direct current turbine methods face problems of cost, location and environmental impact. The tidal power plant of Canadian patent 2537578 and others acknowledge these problems and try to fix them.
Canadian patent 2537578 attempts to solve the environmental problem of having a tidal power plant in an estuary or along a shoreline by providing the alternative of locating the plant entirely offshore. Although this avoids problems associated with coastal ecosystems, the tidal power plant remains an impoundment pond and thus a large structure. The local ecosystem would be negatively affected simply because of the imposing size of the tidal power plant. A
reduction in the size of the tidal power plant would be necessary to reduce its intrusive impact Derek Foran page 4 on the local ecosystem. An environmental problem that all tidal power plants face is the possibility of ocean creatures such as whales, seals and fish being injured by the turbines of the plant. Although this problem would be more prominent with direct current turbines because they are in the open ocean, it could also occur with impoundment ponds.
Impoundment pond tidal power plants have dealt with this possible problem by separating the turbines from the open ocean with grates and nets, similarly to hydroelectric dams. The environmental problem still remains with direct current turbines however because the turbines are open to the ocean.
To increase the amount of potential tidal power plant sites, Canadian patent proposes the possibility of locating its plant entirely offshore. Although this method does increase the amount of potential sites, it brings about higher construction costs due to the increased length in containment walls. Tidal power plants using the direct current turbine method face a different problem with location which is the insufficiency of locations with currents of correct timing and large enough magnitude. Turbine designers have tried to increase the amount of viable locations by increasing the efficiency of the turbines but this has not been enough to make direct current turbines a large provider of global power. It is clear from the location problems of both impoundment ponds and direct current turbines that the amount of tidal power plants can only increase if the plants can become more cost effective in their specific locations.
To reduce construction costs compared to previous impoundment pond structures, Canadian patent 2537578 proposes a method called Modular Barrier Construction. The patent claims that using this method reduces the materials and time needed to build the containment walls, thus reducing costs. Even if the claims of Canadian patent 2537578 regarding Modular Barrier Construction are true, the fact remains that the design is a type of impoundment pond, needing a great length of containment walls because it is a closed structure.
Due to the fact that the length of the containment walls directly affects costs, it is obvious that reducing the length of the walls would be needed to lower construction and materials costs.
The fact that Canadian patent 2537578 is an impoundment pond also means that the containment walls must be able to support great loads caused by water level differentials.
Because of the great amount of forces that they must withstand, the walls must be thick and thus construction is expensive. Containment walls with less force exerted on them (not affected by water level differentials) wouldn't need to be as thick and therefore would be less expensive.
The economic viability of a tidal power plant isn't only determined by the construction costs but by the relationship between the total costs of the plant (construction, maintenance, etc.) and the total power output of the plant. Many impoundment pond tidal power plants fail to Derek Foran page 5 increase their economic viability because they don't take advantage of the kinetic energy of tidal flows. Canadian patent 2537578 recognises this problem and attempts to fix it by shaping sections of the containment walls to capture the kinetic energy of tidal currents. Although this improves on earlier impoundment pond tidal power plants, Canadian patent 2537578 fails to take full advantage of the kinetic energy of tides. The shaped sections of the containment walls are designed only for one-way capture of tidal kinetic energy therefore not taking advantage of both the flooding and ebbing of the tides. A two-way tidal current capturing structure would clearly be better at capturing the maximum amount of kinetic energy from the tides. Canadian patent 2537578 faces another problem when it comes to implementing tidal kinetic energy capturing devices which is that it is not specialised for such. The tidal kinetic energy aspect of it is dependent on the entire structure which is large and expensive. Also, the rest of the structure has its own set of location criteria which may not match that of its kinetic tidal energy aspect. Because of this, it is unlikely that the tidal power plant would be able to take full advantage of the kinetic energy aspect of tidal flows. A tidal power plant made uniquely for the capture of tidal kinetic energy would be more cost effective in this regard because its structure and location could be optimized for capturing kinetic energy of tidal flows.
Despite the efforts of previous inventors, tidal power plants continue to face environmental, location and cost problems. The Tidal Energy Structure that is suggested in this patent manages to overcome the problems faced by both impoundment ponds and water turbines placed directly in tidal currents.
SOLUTIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
= The Tidal Energy Structure eliminates the environmental problem of having the plant in an estuary or along shore by having its location entirely offshore.
= The Tidal Energy Structure needs not be as large as offshore or shoreline impoundment ponds thus reducing its intrusive impact on the local ecosystem.
= The Tidal Energy Structure eliminates the problem of ocean creatures being injured or killed by the turbines of the plant by separating the turbines from the open ocean with nets and containment walls.
= The Tidal Energy Structure reduces the potential of any long term environmental damage due to the fact that the structure is relatively easy to disassemble.
SOLUTIONS FOR LOCATION PROBLEMS
0 The Tidal Energy Structure can be located entirely offshore thus increasing the Derek Foran page 6 amount of possible locations versus tidal power plants needing to be located on specific shorelines or in estuaries.
= The Tidal Energy Structure increases the amount of locations with sufficient tidal currents by increasing the magnitude of the currents themselves.
= The Tidal Energy Structure only captures tidal kinetic energy (not tidal potential energy) therefore its location is not limited by the location criteria of other energy capturing methods such as impoundment ponds.
SOLUTIONS FOR COST PROBLEMS
= The containment walls of the Tidal Energy Structure do not have to withstand as much force as those of impoundment ponds because there is no water level differential. Due to this, the walls of the Tidal Energy Structure do not have to be as thick which saves on construction and materials costs.
= The containment walls of the Tidal Energy structure can be made of resistant flexible sheets strung between supporting posts driven into the ground. The methods of installing this and the materials used are much cheaper than cement or rock containment walls and thus could reduce on construction and materials costs.
= The containment walls of the Tidal Energy Structure are much less thick than those of impoundment ponds. This makes them easier to install which reduces the amount of time and money needed for construction.
= The Tidal Energy Structure is not a large closed structure such as an impoundment pond tidal power plant therefore the length of the containment walls and subsequent costs are greatfy reduced.
= The Tidal Energy Structure increases its economic viability by increasing the magnitude of the tidal currents entering the turbines. This is done by shaping the containment walls to funnel the tidal currents into the turbine area. This captures the kinetic energy of a larger area and provides more power output than traditional direct current turbines.
= The Tidal Energy Structure incorporates a two way capture of kinetic energy (flooding and ebbing of the tides) which greatly increases its power output and economic viability.
= The Tidal Energy Structure is made uniquely for the capture of tidal kinetic energy Derek Foran page 7 (not tidal potential energy) therefore its economic viability is not dependent on other energy capturing elements which can be large and expensive.
DRAWINGS
Figure 1: Illustrates from a top plan view the Tidal Energy Structure with some of its main components in a section of open ocean.
Figure 2: Illustrates a perspective view from the front of one of two openings where the tidal currents enter the Tidal Energy Structure.
Figure 3: Illustrates a vertical section of the preferred embodiment of the turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy Structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1.
Figure 4: Illustrates a vertical section of an alternative turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1.
REFERENCE NUMBERS OF EACH ELEMENT
1: Tidal currents entering the turbines
TECHNICAL FIELD:
This invention is a specific structure which has as its purpose the production of electrical power by the capture of tidal kinetic energy.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
There are two general ways in which power may be produced from tides: by the use of impoundment ponds (capture of potential energy) and by placing water turbines directly in tidal currents (capture of kinetic energy).
The first way, impoundment ponds, involves the gradual capture and release of water. By opening and closing the entry to the pond, a water height differential between the ocean and pond can be established. This differential is then used to allow water to fall, driving turbines and producing power. There are many different tidal power plants, including those of Canadian patent 1170960, filed September 14 1982, and Canadian patent 2537578, filed July 10 2004, which use variations of this method. Although existing tidal power plants utilizing impoundment ponds have been successful in producing power from the energy of the tides, they do face problems, most notably high cost and lack of adequate power plant locations.
The first problem, high cost, is mainly due to the large expenses in constructing the containment walls of the impoundment ponds. Similarly to hydroelectric dams, these containment walls must be very thick and able to support great loads caused by the water level differentials between pond and ocean. The installation and materials costs of these walls can prevent the construction of a tidal power station from being economically viable.
The second problem, lack of proper locations, is due to the very specific physical conditions which many tidal power plants need to be economically and environmentally viable. Ideally, most containment pond tidal power stations are located in an inlet to reduce the length of the containment walls and subsequent costs. Although inlets of correct dimensions for impoundment pond power stations are fairly common, they must also be located in a geographical area with large high to low tide differentials. Locations satisfying both these previous conditions are rare thus limiting the widespread use of tidal power stations. Some tidal power plants, such as that of Canadian patent 2537578, try to deal with the limited amount of viable locations by making it possibie for the plant to be located offshore or simply along the coast (not necessarily in an inlet). These power stations solve the problem of having a limited amount of proper inlets - however another problem is created. By doing this, they increase the size of the containment walls needed and the economic viability of constructing Derek Foran page 3 the power station is lowered.
Another problem that all tidal power stations have to deal with is their destructive impact on the environment. Coastal tidal power stations are especially problematic because they have a profound negative effect on coastal ecosystems which can often be very sensitive. By placing the station offshore, the negative environmental impact, though not totally eliminated, can be reduced.
So far we have seen that tidal power stations using impoundment ponds face many problems including: high cost, lack of proper locations and negative impact on the environment. The second way of extracting energy from the tides is to place water turbines directly in tidal currents (subsequently we will call this the direct current turbine method).
This method has been widely used and is probably the simplest type of tidal power plant. Like impoundment ponds, turbines placed directly in tidal currents have their advantages and disadvantages. The direct current turbine method usually costs less to construct than a large scale impoundment pond because of the lack of expensive containment walls. Despite this, many possible direct current turbine placements are not economically viable because the magnitudes of the tides, and the subsequent power output of the turbines, are not high enough to offset construction costs and maintenance of the turbines. This fact has limited the construction of direct current turbines to locations where the timing and magnitudes of the currents are near ideal. There are simply not enough suitable locations in the world to make direct current turbines a substantial source of power. Another problem that arises with direct current turbines, similarly to impoundment ponds, is their negative impact on wildlife. Though they do not greatly interfere with nature due to sheer size like impoundment ponds, they can have severe negative environmental impacts because they are in direct contact with aquatic species. In direct current turbines there is nothing separating the turbines from the open ocean therefore it would be possible for ocean creatures such as whales, seals and fish to be injured by the turbines or have their breeding and feeding grounds disturbed.
As we have seen, both the impoundment pond and direct current turbine methods face problems of cost, location and environmental impact. The tidal power plant of Canadian patent 2537578 and others acknowledge these problems and try to fix them.
Canadian patent 2537578 attempts to solve the environmental problem of having a tidal power plant in an estuary or along a shoreline by providing the alternative of locating the plant entirely offshore. Although this avoids problems associated with coastal ecosystems, the tidal power plant remains an impoundment pond and thus a large structure. The local ecosystem would be negatively affected simply because of the imposing size of the tidal power plant. A
reduction in the size of the tidal power plant would be necessary to reduce its intrusive impact Derek Foran page 4 on the local ecosystem. An environmental problem that all tidal power plants face is the possibility of ocean creatures such as whales, seals and fish being injured by the turbines of the plant. Although this problem would be more prominent with direct current turbines because they are in the open ocean, it could also occur with impoundment ponds.
Impoundment pond tidal power plants have dealt with this possible problem by separating the turbines from the open ocean with grates and nets, similarly to hydroelectric dams. The environmental problem still remains with direct current turbines however because the turbines are open to the ocean.
To increase the amount of potential tidal power plant sites, Canadian patent proposes the possibility of locating its plant entirely offshore. Although this method does increase the amount of potential sites, it brings about higher construction costs due to the increased length in containment walls. Tidal power plants using the direct current turbine method face a different problem with location which is the insufficiency of locations with currents of correct timing and large enough magnitude. Turbine designers have tried to increase the amount of viable locations by increasing the efficiency of the turbines but this has not been enough to make direct current turbines a large provider of global power. It is clear from the location problems of both impoundment ponds and direct current turbines that the amount of tidal power plants can only increase if the plants can become more cost effective in their specific locations.
To reduce construction costs compared to previous impoundment pond structures, Canadian patent 2537578 proposes a method called Modular Barrier Construction. The patent claims that using this method reduces the materials and time needed to build the containment walls, thus reducing costs. Even if the claims of Canadian patent 2537578 regarding Modular Barrier Construction are true, the fact remains that the design is a type of impoundment pond, needing a great length of containment walls because it is a closed structure.
Due to the fact that the length of the containment walls directly affects costs, it is obvious that reducing the length of the walls would be needed to lower construction and materials costs.
The fact that Canadian patent 2537578 is an impoundment pond also means that the containment walls must be able to support great loads caused by water level differentials.
Because of the great amount of forces that they must withstand, the walls must be thick and thus construction is expensive. Containment walls with less force exerted on them (not affected by water level differentials) wouldn't need to be as thick and therefore would be less expensive.
The economic viability of a tidal power plant isn't only determined by the construction costs but by the relationship between the total costs of the plant (construction, maintenance, etc.) and the total power output of the plant. Many impoundment pond tidal power plants fail to Derek Foran page 5 increase their economic viability because they don't take advantage of the kinetic energy of tidal flows. Canadian patent 2537578 recognises this problem and attempts to fix it by shaping sections of the containment walls to capture the kinetic energy of tidal currents. Although this improves on earlier impoundment pond tidal power plants, Canadian patent 2537578 fails to take full advantage of the kinetic energy of tides. The shaped sections of the containment walls are designed only for one-way capture of tidal kinetic energy therefore not taking advantage of both the flooding and ebbing of the tides. A two-way tidal current capturing structure would clearly be better at capturing the maximum amount of kinetic energy from the tides. Canadian patent 2537578 faces another problem when it comes to implementing tidal kinetic energy capturing devices which is that it is not specialised for such. The tidal kinetic energy aspect of it is dependent on the entire structure which is large and expensive. Also, the rest of the structure has its own set of location criteria which may not match that of its kinetic tidal energy aspect. Because of this, it is unlikely that the tidal power plant would be able to take full advantage of the kinetic energy aspect of tidal flows. A tidal power plant made uniquely for the capture of tidal kinetic energy would be more cost effective in this regard because its structure and location could be optimized for capturing kinetic energy of tidal flows.
Despite the efforts of previous inventors, tidal power plants continue to face environmental, location and cost problems. The Tidal Energy Structure that is suggested in this patent manages to overcome the problems faced by both impoundment ponds and water turbines placed directly in tidal currents.
SOLUTIONS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
= The Tidal Energy Structure eliminates the environmental problem of having the plant in an estuary or along shore by having its location entirely offshore.
= The Tidal Energy Structure needs not be as large as offshore or shoreline impoundment ponds thus reducing its intrusive impact on the local ecosystem.
= The Tidal Energy Structure eliminates the problem of ocean creatures being injured or killed by the turbines of the plant by separating the turbines from the open ocean with nets and containment walls.
= The Tidal Energy Structure reduces the potential of any long term environmental damage due to the fact that the structure is relatively easy to disassemble.
SOLUTIONS FOR LOCATION PROBLEMS
0 The Tidal Energy Structure can be located entirely offshore thus increasing the Derek Foran page 6 amount of possible locations versus tidal power plants needing to be located on specific shorelines or in estuaries.
= The Tidal Energy Structure increases the amount of locations with sufficient tidal currents by increasing the magnitude of the currents themselves.
= The Tidal Energy Structure only captures tidal kinetic energy (not tidal potential energy) therefore its location is not limited by the location criteria of other energy capturing methods such as impoundment ponds.
SOLUTIONS FOR COST PROBLEMS
= The containment walls of the Tidal Energy Structure do not have to withstand as much force as those of impoundment ponds because there is no water level differential. Due to this, the walls of the Tidal Energy Structure do not have to be as thick which saves on construction and materials costs.
= The containment walls of the Tidal Energy structure can be made of resistant flexible sheets strung between supporting posts driven into the ground. The methods of installing this and the materials used are much cheaper than cement or rock containment walls and thus could reduce on construction and materials costs.
= The containment walls of the Tidal Energy Structure are much less thick than those of impoundment ponds. This makes them easier to install which reduces the amount of time and money needed for construction.
= The Tidal Energy Structure is not a large closed structure such as an impoundment pond tidal power plant therefore the length of the containment walls and subsequent costs are greatfy reduced.
= The Tidal Energy Structure increases its economic viability by increasing the magnitude of the tidal currents entering the turbines. This is done by shaping the containment walls to funnel the tidal currents into the turbine area. This captures the kinetic energy of a larger area and provides more power output than traditional direct current turbines.
= The Tidal Energy Structure incorporates a two way capture of kinetic energy (flooding and ebbing of the tides) which greatly increases its power output and economic viability.
= The Tidal Energy Structure is made uniquely for the capture of tidal kinetic energy Derek Foran page 7 (not tidal potential energy) therefore its economic viability is not dependent on other energy capturing elements which can be large and expensive.
DRAWINGS
Figure 1: Illustrates from a top plan view the Tidal Energy Structure with some of its main components in a section of open ocean.
Figure 2: Illustrates a perspective view from the front of one of two openings where the tidal currents enter the Tidal Energy Structure.
Figure 3: Illustrates a vertical section of the preferred embodiment of the turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy Structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1.
Figure 4: Illustrates a vertical section of an alternative turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1.
REFERENCE NUMBERS OF EACH ELEMENT
1: Tidal currents entering the turbines
2: Tidal currents exiting the turbines
3: Turbine apparatus
4: Supporting post
5: Containment panel for containment wall structure
6: Turbine compartment
7: Docking and maintenance station
8: Horizontal support wire
9: Net and horizontal support wire apparatus
10: Entire structure of a containment wall
11: Containment panel for turbine compartment
12: Turbine generator Derek Foran page 8
13: Turbine rotor blades
14: Pivoting turbine attachment point
15: Transformer and control panel
16: Protective top covering for turbine compartment
17: Containment barrier
18: Turbine rotor shaft
19: Bottom rim section DETAILED DESCRIPTION: PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
Figure 1 illustrates from the top plan view the Tidal Energy Structure with some of its main components in a section of open ocean. The containment wall structures (10), which are arranged in an hourglass shape, funnel the incoming tidal currents (1) into the turbine compartment (6) where the tidal kinetic energy is captured by the turbine apparatus (3). The tidal currents going out (2) of the turbine compartment (6) and Tidal Energy Structure are of significantly less magnitude than those coming in (1) due to the fact that the turbine apparatus (3) captures some of the tidal kinetic energy. The Tidal Energy Structure is capable of capturing tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides therefore the direction of incoming (1) and outgoing (2) tidal currents illustrated in figure 1 will be reversed depending on the direction of the tide. The preferred location of the Tidal Energy Structure would be in a bay or offshore where the tidal currents are of large magnitude however other locations are also possible. Although the Tidal Energy Structure could be economically viable in ocean waters of varying tidal current magnitudes, the power output of the tidal power plant would increase proportionally to the magnitude of the tidal currents present in the area. The structure could be located in waters of various depths. The preferred orientation of the Tidal Energy Structure would be such that the openings of the structure face the direction of the incoming tidal currents: one opening for the ebbing motion of the tides and the other for the flooding motion of the tides. These openings would not necessary have to be directly opposite each other as ebbing and flooding tidal currents do not always flow directly in opposite directions. The length Derek Foran page 9 of the containment wall structures (10) and the specific angle formed between them would vary depending on the magnitude of the local currents and local bathymetry.
The preferred height of the supporting wall structures (10) would be 1 metre above the local high tide water level but could vary depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant.
The containment wall structures (10) are preferably made of non-corroding metal supporting posts (4), non-corroding metal bottom rims (19) and articulated metal sheet containment panels (5). The composition of the containment panels (5) could vary depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant and other factors but it would be essential that they be very resistant due to the harsh conditions that they would face (storms, floating debris, etc.). One possible alternative composition for the containment panels (5) would be resistant flexible sheets made of a heavy woven synthetic material. The compositions of the supporting posts (4) and bottom rims (19) could also vary. The supporting posts (4) are driven into the ocean bottom using a pile driver and provide the stability and support for the entire Tidal Energy Structure. The number of supporting posts (4) used for the tidal power plant would depend on the length of the walls, strength of the tidal currents and other natural conditions. The height of each supporting post would depend on the specific water depth it would be in. Although other methods of attachment could be used, the containment panels (5) would preferably be bolted to the supporting posts (4) such that the interior environment of the structure is sealed from the open ocean. The bottom rims (19), the containment panels (5) and the supporting posts (4) make up the preferred embodiment of the containment wall structures (10) which serve the purpose of funnelling the tidal currents to the turbine compartment (6). Although the previous is the preferred embodiment of the containment wall structures (10), other embodiments such as reinforced concrete walls could also be used depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant. The horizontal support wires (8) are preferably made of non corroding steel and preferably strung between rings attached to the tops of the supporting posts (4). Although the wires may not be necessary in certain cases due to the natural conditions of the location, they would provide support to the Tidal Energy Structure. An alternative embodiment (not shown) would be to have extra support wires (8) strung between the supporting posts (4) and/or the ocean bottom for even more support if the natural conditions of the location necessitated this. The extra support wires (8) would be anchored to the ocean bottom with concrete blocks. Other wire attachment points and methods of attaching the support wires (8) would also be possible. The bottom rims (19) serve the purpose of securing the containment panels (5) to the ocean floor. These rims are preferably fixed to both the containment panels (5) and the ocean bottom with bolts and prevent any interaction between the internal and external environments of the Tidal Energy Structure.
Other methods of attaching the containment panels to the ocean bottom would also be possible.
A possible alternative embodiment (not pictured) would be to attach the containment panels Derek Foran page 10 (5) to the supporting posts (4) such that the panels could be retracted onto the supporting posts (4) or lowered to greater water depths in the event of a storm (or other incident) which could damage the containment panels (5).
Although the preferred embodiment of the Tidal Energy Structure is that of a structure totally independent from land, a possible alternative embodiment (not depicted) would be to construct the structure with a land mass as part of the containment wall structures (10). Using this alternative embodiment could cut construction costs in certain power plant locations.
The docking and maintenance station (7) is attached to the turbine compartment (6) and the preferred embodiment would be that of a floating structure welded onto the turbine compartment (6). Other docking and maintenance station (7) configurations would also be possible including a non floating station. Other methods of attaching the docking and maintenance station (7) to the turbine compartment would also be possible. The purpose of this station is to provide a place for docking water vessels doing maintenance work on the tidal power station. The station could also be the location of a control operator as most of the eiectrical and control devices would be located here.
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view from the front of one of two openings where the tidal currents enter the Tidal Energy Structure. These openings are the only points of interaction between the external and internal water environments of the tidal power plant.
The placement of the net and horizontal support wire apparatus (9) at the entrances of the Tidal Energy Structure ensure that no unwanted objects enter the structure and damage any of the internal components. The preferred method of attaching the net and horizontal support wire apparatus (9) to the supporting posts (4) and ocean bottom would be with cables although other methods could also be used. The horizontal support wire component of the net and horizontal support wire apparatus (9) serves the same support function as the other horizontal support wires (8). The apparatus also serves the purpose of preventing ocean creatures from entering the structure and injuring themselves in the turbine apparatus (3).
Figure 3 illustrates a vertical section of the preferred embodiment of the turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy Structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1. The tidal currents that have been intensified from being funnelled by the containment wall structures (10) enter the turbine compartment (6) and drive the turbine rotor blades (13). The mechanical energy of the turbine rotor blades (13) is then converted to electrical energy by the turbine generators (12). This electrical energy then goes to the transformer and control panel (15) which would provide electricity to the mainland via wires or otherwise.
The specific depth of each turbine and the number of turbines used would depend on the local Derek Foran page 11 conditions of the tidal power plant as tidal currents would be stronger at various water depths specific to each location. A key component of the turbine apparatus (3) is that it can capture tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides or in other words from the two opposite directions of tidal currents. To do this, the turbines are able to rotate 180 via the pivoting turbine attachment points (14) to which the turbines would be bolted.
Although this would be the preferred embodiment of the rotation of the turbine apparatus other methods of rotation could also be used. One possible alternative embodiment (not pictured) would be to bolt each turbine onto a vertical shaft which could then be rotated 1800 as a unit.
The preferred embodiment of the containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) would be of articulated metal sheets similar to that of the containment panels for the containment wall structures (5) however those for the turbine compartment would be thicker because of the necessity to protect the turbine apparatus (3). Although articulated metal sheets would be the preferred material embodiment of the containment panels (11), other material embodiments such as resistant flexible sheets possibly made of a heavy woven synthetic material could also be used depending on the local conditions. The containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) would preferably be bolted to the supporting posts (4) and bottom rim sections (19) in the same way as for the containment wall structures (10) although other methods could be used. Although the previous is the preferred embodiment of the walls of the turbine compartment (6), other embodiments such as reinforced concrete walls could also be used depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant. The preferred embodiment of the protective top covering for the turbine compartment (16) would be that of a grate although other embodiments such as a surface with no holes could also be used.
Figure 4 illustrates a vertical section of an alternative embodiment of the turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy Structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1. The tidal currents that have been intensified from being funnelled by the containment wall structures (10) enter the turbine compartment (6) and drive the turbine rotor blades (13) which turn the turbine rotor shaft (18). The mechanical energy of the rotor shaft (18) is then converted to electrical energy by the turbine generator (12). This electrical energy then goes to the transformer and control panel (15) which would provide electricity to the mainland via wires or otherwise. The specific depth of the turbine apparatus (3) would depend on the local conditions of the tidal power plant as tidal currents could be stronger at various water depths.
In the alternative embodiment of the turbine compartment of figure 4, after having been funnelled by the containment wall structures (10), the tidal currents are directed into the confined area of the turbine rotor blades (13) by the top and bottom containment barriers (17). In this embodiment there is only one turbine which could be beneficial in certain tidal Derek Foran page 12 power plant locations. The containment barriers (17) would have gradual vertical slopes to allow the tidal currents to be funnelled smoothly. The preferred material embodiment of the containment barriers would be reinforced concrete although other material embodiments could also be used.
Likewise to the turbine apparatus (3) of figure 3, the turbine apparatus (3) of figure 4 would be able to capture tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides or in other words from the two opposite directions of tidal currents. To do this, the turbine rotor blades (13) of figure 4 are able to turn from tidal currents entering the Tidal Energy Structure from both directions (flooding and ebbing).
The preferred and alternative material embodiments of the containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) of figure 4 are the same as those of figure 3. The containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) of figure 4 would be attached to the supporting posts (4) and bottom rim sections (19) in the same way as for the containment wall structures (10). The top of the turbine compartment of figure 4 would simply be the top containment barrier (17) and would therefore not need a protective top as in figure 3.
Although figures 3 and 4 represent two possible embodiments of the turbine compartment (6) of the Tidal Energy Structure, other embodiments could also be used to increase the efficiency and power output of the plant. The specific arrangement of the turbine compartment (6) would vary from plant to plant depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant.
Although the preferred method of energy transport to the mainland would be electricity through wires, other methods of energy transport and/or storage could also be used. This would depend on several factors including power plant proximity to land and fluctuating power demand needs.
Although the preferred embodiment of the Tidal Energy Structure is able to capture tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides, a possible alternative embodiment (not pictured) would be specifically for one-way capture of ocean current kinetic energy. This alternative embodiment would be constructed the same as the preferred embodiment except that the structure would only be one side of the hourglass shape and the turbine apparatus would only capture the kinetic energy of ocean currents from one direction.
This embodiment would be for locations where there are only strong tidal currents in one direction and for locations where there are strong water currents in general (not necessarily tidal).
Derek Foran page 13 Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to the mind of one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it is understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiment disclosed, and that modifications and embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.
The intended use of the Tidal Energy Structure is the generation of power through the capture of tidal kinetic energy.
The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
Figure 1 illustrates from the top plan view the Tidal Energy Structure with some of its main components in a section of open ocean. The containment wall structures (10), which are arranged in an hourglass shape, funnel the incoming tidal currents (1) into the turbine compartment (6) where the tidal kinetic energy is captured by the turbine apparatus (3). The tidal currents going out (2) of the turbine compartment (6) and Tidal Energy Structure are of significantly less magnitude than those coming in (1) due to the fact that the turbine apparatus (3) captures some of the tidal kinetic energy. The Tidal Energy Structure is capable of capturing tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides therefore the direction of incoming (1) and outgoing (2) tidal currents illustrated in figure 1 will be reversed depending on the direction of the tide. The preferred location of the Tidal Energy Structure would be in a bay or offshore where the tidal currents are of large magnitude however other locations are also possible. Although the Tidal Energy Structure could be economically viable in ocean waters of varying tidal current magnitudes, the power output of the tidal power plant would increase proportionally to the magnitude of the tidal currents present in the area. The structure could be located in waters of various depths. The preferred orientation of the Tidal Energy Structure would be such that the openings of the structure face the direction of the incoming tidal currents: one opening for the ebbing motion of the tides and the other for the flooding motion of the tides. These openings would not necessary have to be directly opposite each other as ebbing and flooding tidal currents do not always flow directly in opposite directions. The length Derek Foran page 9 of the containment wall structures (10) and the specific angle formed between them would vary depending on the magnitude of the local currents and local bathymetry.
The preferred height of the supporting wall structures (10) would be 1 metre above the local high tide water level but could vary depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant.
The containment wall structures (10) are preferably made of non-corroding metal supporting posts (4), non-corroding metal bottom rims (19) and articulated metal sheet containment panels (5). The composition of the containment panels (5) could vary depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant and other factors but it would be essential that they be very resistant due to the harsh conditions that they would face (storms, floating debris, etc.). One possible alternative composition for the containment panels (5) would be resistant flexible sheets made of a heavy woven synthetic material. The compositions of the supporting posts (4) and bottom rims (19) could also vary. The supporting posts (4) are driven into the ocean bottom using a pile driver and provide the stability and support for the entire Tidal Energy Structure. The number of supporting posts (4) used for the tidal power plant would depend on the length of the walls, strength of the tidal currents and other natural conditions. The height of each supporting post would depend on the specific water depth it would be in. Although other methods of attachment could be used, the containment panels (5) would preferably be bolted to the supporting posts (4) such that the interior environment of the structure is sealed from the open ocean. The bottom rims (19), the containment panels (5) and the supporting posts (4) make up the preferred embodiment of the containment wall structures (10) which serve the purpose of funnelling the tidal currents to the turbine compartment (6). Although the previous is the preferred embodiment of the containment wall structures (10), other embodiments such as reinforced concrete walls could also be used depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant. The horizontal support wires (8) are preferably made of non corroding steel and preferably strung between rings attached to the tops of the supporting posts (4). Although the wires may not be necessary in certain cases due to the natural conditions of the location, they would provide support to the Tidal Energy Structure. An alternative embodiment (not shown) would be to have extra support wires (8) strung between the supporting posts (4) and/or the ocean bottom for even more support if the natural conditions of the location necessitated this. The extra support wires (8) would be anchored to the ocean bottom with concrete blocks. Other wire attachment points and methods of attaching the support wires (8) would also be possible. The bottom rims (19) serve the purpose of securing the containment panels (5) to the ocean floor. These rims are preferably fixed to both the containment panels (5) and the ocean bottom with bolts and prevent any interaction between the internal and external environments of the Tidal Energy Structure.
Other methods of attaching the containment panels to the ocean bottom would also be possible.
A possible alternative embodiment (not pictured) would be to attach the containment panels Derek Foran page 10 (5) to the supporting posts (4) such that the panels could be retracted onto the supporting posts (4) or lowered to greater water depths in the event of a storm (or other incident) which could damage the containment panels (5).
Although the preferred embodiment of the Tidal Energy Structure is that of a structure totally independent from land, a possible alternative embodiment (not depicted) would be to construct the structure with a land mass as part of the containment wall structures (10). Using this alternative embodiment could cut construction costs in certain power plant locations.
The docking and maintenance station (7) is attached to the turbine compartment (6) and the preferred embodiment would be that of a floating structure welded onto the turbine compartment (6). Other docking and maintenance station (7) configurations would also be possible including a non floating station. Other methods of attaching the docking and maintenance station (7) to the turbine compartment would also be possible. The purpose of this station is to provide a place for docking water vessels doing maintenance work on the tidal power station. The station could also be the location of a control operator as most of the eiectrical and control devices would be located here.
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view from the front of one of two openings where the tidal currents enter the Tidal Energy Structure. These openings are the only points of interaction between the external and internal water environments of the tidal power plant.
The placement of the net and horizontal support wire apparatus (9) at the entrances of the Tidal Energy Structure ensure that no unwanted objects enter the structure and damage any of the internal components. The preferred method of attaching the net and horizontal support wire apparatus (9) to the supporting posts (4) and ocean bottom would be with cables although other methods could also be used. The horizontal support wire component of the net and horizontal support wire apparatus (9) serves the same support function as the other horizontal support wires (8). The apparatus also serves the purpose of preventing ocean creatures from entering the structure and injuring themselves in the turbine apparatus (3).
Figure 3 illustrates a vertical section of the preferred embodiment of the turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy Structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1. The tidal currents that have been intensified from being funnelled by the containment wall structures (10) enter the turbine compartment (6) and drive the turbine rotor blades (13). The mechanical energy of the turbine rotor blades (13) is then converted to electrical energy by the turbine generators (12). This electrical energy then goes to the transformer and control panel (15) which would provide electricity to the mainland via wires or otherwise.
The specific depth of each turbine and the number of turbines used would depend on the local Derek Foran page 11 conditions of the tidal power plant as tidal currents would be stronger at various water depths specific to each location. A key component of the turbine apparatus (3) is that it can capture tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides or in other words from the two opposite directions of tidal currents. To do this, the turbines are able to rotate 180 via the pivoting turbine attachment points (14) to which the turbines would be bolted.
Although this would be the preferred embodiment of the rotation of the turbine apparatus other methods of rotation could also be used. One possible alternative embodiment (not pictured) would be to bolt each turbine onto a vertical shaft which could then be rotated 1800 as a unit.
The preferred embodiment of the containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) would be of articulated metal sheets similar to that of the containment panels for the containment wall structures (5) however those for the turbine compartment would be thicker because of the necessity to protect the turbine apparatus (3). Although articulated metal sheets would be the preferred material embodiment of the containment panels (11), other material embodiments such as resistant flexible sheets possibly made of a heavy woven synthetic material could also be used depending on the local conditions. The containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) would preferably be bolted to the supporting posts (4) and bottom rim sections (19) in the same way as for the containment wall structures (10) although other methods could be used. Although the previous is the preferred embodiment of the walls of the turbine compartment (6), other embodiments such as reinforced concrete walls could also be used depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant. The preferred embodiment of the protective top covering for the turbine compartment (16) would be that of a grate although other embodiments such as a surface with no holes could also be used.
Figure 4 illustrates a vertical section of an alternative embodiment of the turbine compartment located in the middle of the Tidal Energy Structure. This compartment is referred to as element 6 in figure 1. The tidal currents that have been intensified from being funnelled by the containment wall structures (10) enter the turbine compartment (6) and drive the turbine rotor blades (13) which turn the turbine rotor shaft (18). The mechanical energy of the rotor shaft (18) is then converted to electrical energy by the turbine generator (12). This electrical energy then goes to the transformer and control panel (15) which would provide electricity to the mainland via wires or otherwise. The specific depth of the turbine apparatus (3) would depend on the local conditions of the tidal power plant as tidal currents could be stronger at various water depths.
In the alternative embodiment of the turbine compartment of figure 4, after having been funnelled by the containment wall structures (10), the tidal currents are directed into the confined area of the turbine rotor blades (13) by the top and bottom containment barriers (17). In this embodiment there is only one turbine which could be beneficial in certain tidal Derek Foran page 12 power plant locations. The containment barriers (17) would have gradual vertical slopes to allow the tidal currents to be funnelled smoothly. The preferred material embodiment of the containment barriers would be reinforced concrete although other material embodiments could also be used.
Likewise to the turbine apparatus (3) of figure 3, the turbine apparatus (3) of figure 4 would be able to capture tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides or in other words from the two opposite directions of tidal currents. To do this, the turbine rotor blades (13) of figure 4 are able to turn from tidal currents entering the Tidal Energy Structure from both directions (flooding and ebbing).
The preferred and alternative material embodiments of the containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) of figure 4 are the same as those of figure 3. The containment panels for the turbine compartment (11) of figure 4 would be attached to the supporting posts (4) and bottom rim sections (19) in the same way as for the containment wall structures (10). The top of the turbine compartment of figure 4 would simply be the top containment barrier (17) and would therefore not need a protective top as in figure 3.
Although figures 3 and 4 represent two possible embodiments of the turbine compartment (6) of the Tidal Energy Structure, other embodiments could also be used to increase the efficiency and power output of the plant. The specific arrangement of the turbine compartment (6) would vary from plant to plant depending on the local conditions of the tidal power plant.
Although the preferred method of energy transport to the mainland would be electricity through wires, other methods of energy transport and/or storage could also be used. This would depend on several factors including power plant proximity to land and fluctuating power demand needs.
Although the preferred embodiment of the Tidal Energy Structure is able to capture tidal kinetic energy from both the flooding and ebbing of the tides, a possible alternative embodiment (not pictured) would be specifically for one-way capture of ocean current kinetic energy. This alternative embodiment would be constructed the same as the preferred embodiment except that the structure would only be one side of the hourglass shape and the turbine apparatus would only capture the kinetic energy of ocean currents from one direction.
This embodiment would be for locations where there are only strong tidal currents in one direction and for locations where there are strong water currents in general (not necessarily tidal).
Derek Foran page 13 Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to the mind of one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and associated drawings. Therefore, it is understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiment disclosed, and that modifications and embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.
The intended use of the Tidal Energy Structure is the generation of power through the capture of tidal kinetic energy.
Claims (3)
1. A tidal energy structure for generating electricity from tidal or river waters, comprising containment walls and a turbine apparatus, with, said containment walls extending from the seafloor to above the water surface and having an hourglass shape to channel tidal or river currents into said turbine apparatus located at the constriction of said hourglass shape, characterised in that said containment walls are composed of flexible force-resistant containment panels mounted between supporting posts with horizontal support wires linking said supporting posts.
2. The structure according to claim 1, wherein vertical containment barriers, tapering from an open ingress to a narrow egress, are arranged for channelling said tidal or river waters.
3. The structure according to claim 1, wherein said containment walls are retractable.
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| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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| CA2644792A CA2644792C (en) | 2008-10-27 | 2008-10-27 | Tidal energy structure |
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| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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| CA2644792A CA2644792C (en) | 2008-10-27 | 2008-10-27 | Tidal energy structure |
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| CA2644792C true CA2644792C (en) | 2016-05-17 |
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