GB2617317A - Energy harvesting apparatus, system and method of manufacture - Google Patents

Energy harvesting apparatus, system and method of manufacture Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2617317A
GB2617317A GB2204477.0A GB202204477A GB2617317A GB 2617317 A GB2617317 A GB 2617317A GB 202204477 A GB202204477 A GB 202204477A GB 2617317 A GB2617317 A GB 2617317A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
energy harvesting
harvesting apparatus
central spindle
turbines
radial arms
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
GB2204477.0A
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GB2617317B (en
GB202204477D0 (en
Inventor
Velayutham Karthikeyan
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Katrick Technologies Ltd
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Katrick Technologies Ltd
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Katrick Technologies Ltd filed Critical Katrick Technologies Ltd
Priority to GB2204477.0A priority Critical patent/GB2617317B/en
Publication of GB202204477D0 publication Critical patent/GB202204477D0/en
Priority to PCT/GB2023/050799 priority patent/WO2023187359A1/en
Priority to TW112111882A priority patent/TW202407213A/en
Publication of GB2617317A publication Critical patent/GB2617317A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2617317B publication Critical patent/GB2617317B/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D1/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D1/02—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor  having a plurality of rotors
    • 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
    • F03B13/10—Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
    • 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
    • F03B17/00—Other machines or engines
    • F03B17/06—Other machines or engines using liquid flow with predominantly kinetic energy conversion, e.g. of swinging-flap type, "run-of-river", "ultra-low head"
    • F03B17/061—Other machines or engines using liquid flow with predominantly kinetic energy conversion, e.g. of swinging-flap type, "run-of-river", "ultra-low head" with rotation axis substantially in flow direction
    • 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
    • F03B17/00—Other machines or engines
    • F03B17/06—Other machines or engines using liquid flow with predominantly kinetic energy conversion, e.g. of swinging-flap type, "run-of-river", "ultra-low head"
    • F03B17/062—Other machines or engines using liquid flow with predominantly kinetic energy conversion, e.g. of swinging-flap type, "run-of-river", "ultra-low head" with rotation axis substantially at right angle to flow direction
    • F03B17/063—Other machines or engines using liquid flow with predominantly kinetic energy conversion, e.g. of swinging-flap type, "run-of-river", "ultra-low head" with rotation axis substantially at right angle to flow direction the flow engaging parts having no movement relative to the rotor during its rotation
    • 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
    • F03B3/00—Machines or engines of reaction type; Parts or details peculiar thereto
    • F03B3/12—Blades; Blade-carrying rotors
    • F03B3/126—Rotors for essentially axial flow, e.g. for propeller turbines
    • 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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D1/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D1/04—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor  having stationary wind-guiding means, e.g. with shrouds or channels
    • 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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D1/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially parallel to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D1/06—Rotors
    • F03D1/065—Rotors characterised by their construction elements
    • 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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D15/00—Transmission of mechanical power
    • 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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D3/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D3/02—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor  having a plurality of rotors
    • 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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D3/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D3/04—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor  having stationary wind-guiding means, e.g. with shrouds or channels
    • 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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D3/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D3/06—Rotors
    • F03D3/062—Rotors characterised by their construction elements
    • 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
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D3/00—Wind motors with rotation axis substantially perpendicular to the air flow entering the rotor 
    • F03D3/06—Rotors
    • F03D3/062—Rotors characterised by their construction elements
    • F03D3/066—Rotors characterised by their construction elements the wind engaging parts being movable relative to the rotor
    • F03D3/067—Cyclic movements
    • F03D3/068—Cyclic movements mechanically controlled by the rotor structure

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Sustainable Development (AREA)
  • Sustainable Energy (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
  • Wind Motors (AREA)

Abstract

An energy harvesting apparatus comprises a central spindle 2 having a central axis S and one or more radial arms 4 mechanically connected to the central spindle and extending radially from the central spindle. Each arm has a central axis R and one or more wind or water turbines 6 mechanically connected to the arm. In use, rotation of the turbine drives rotation of the one or more radial arms about its central axis R and about the central axis S of the central spindle which drives rotation of the central spindle. The central spindle, one or more radial arms and turbines are located within a duct 15. The connection between the turbine and the radial arms and/or the connection between the radial arms and the central spindle may comprise a gear arrangement. The central spindle may be parallel or perpendicular to the rotation axes of the turbines. The radial arms may be radially offset from one another around the central spindle. An energy harvesting system may comprise two or more of the energy harvesting apparatus.

Description

1 Energy Harvesting Apparatus, System and Method of Manufacture 3 The present invention relates to an energy harvesting apparatus, system and method of 4 manufacture. In particular, the energy harvesting apparatus is suitable for harvesting energy from a fluid flow, such as wind, to produce renewable energy.
7 Background to the Invention
9 A conventional horizontal-axis wind turbine known in the art typically comprises three blades. The wind turbine converts the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical motion 11 according to the principle of aerodynamic lift. In operation, the blades rotate and drive a 12 generator which converts the mechanical motion into electricity.
14 Whilst wind turbines are widely used in the energy industry to offer a source of renewable energy, there are numerous disadvantages. Wind turbines can only operate within a 16 narrow wind speed window. For example, if the wind speed is too high there is a risk of 17 damaging the wind turbines. Conversely if the wind speed is too low, then there may not 18 be enough aerodynamic lift to rotate the blades.
1 Commercial wind farms typically comprise large wind turbines which can be over 100 m 2 tall. Whilst large wind turbines are more efficient than smaller scale micro wind turbines, 3 the large wind turbines typically dominate the surrounding landscape and have a negative 4 aesthetic impact on the environment. There are further negative environmental consequences as wind turbines can affect the surrounding wildlife. For example, the 6 blades of the wind turbines can kill birds.
8 In addition, such large wind turbines are not suitable to be located in urban landscapes, by 9 motorways and especially not near airports as they tend to produce a significant turbulent flow in the wake of the blades.
12 Summary of the Invention
14 It is an object of an aspect of the present invention to provide an energy harvesting apparatus that obviates or at least mitigates one or more of the aforesaid disadvantages of 16 the energy harvesting apparatus known in the art.
18 According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy harvesting 19 apparatus comprising a central spindle, one or more radial arms mechanically connected to the central spindle and extending radially from the central spindle, each arm having one 21 or more turbines mechanically connected to the arm, 22 wherein, in use, rotation of the turbine drives rotation of the radial arm, which drives 23 rotation of the central spindle, 24 and wherein the central spindle, radial arms and turbines are located within a duct.
26 The inventors have found that the energy harvesting apparatus captures a greater 27 sweepable area (i.e., the cross-sectional area of a fluid flow that may contact a turbine) 28 than conventional horizontal-axis wind turbines, and thus increases the efficiency of 29 energy capturing. This is because the energy harvesting apparatus captures a larger portion of the fluid flow energy incident upon the apparatus.
32 Furthermore, given that the position of the turbine within the duct changes as the central 33 spindle rotates, this advantageously compensates for variations in fluid flow across the 34 cross-sectional area of the duct.
1 Additionally, by integrating the components of the energy harvesting apparatus into a duct, 2 the apparatus can be compact, is modular and can form part of a larger system. Not only 3 can the energy harvesting apparatus be discreetly integrated into the environment in the 4 form of walls, but it is also suitable for locations typically not considered for apparatus known in the art, such as urban landscapes, motorways, airports and even under water 6 locations. Thus, the energy harvesting apparatus is not limited to remote areas (often 7 considered areas of natural beauty) and so there is no reason for a negative public 8 opinion.
Preferably, the apparatus comprises a plurality of radial arms. Preferably, one or more of 11 the radial arms have a plurality of turbines. Both features advantageously further increase 12 the efficiency of energy capturing.
14 Preferably, the central spindle is located centrally within the duct.
16 Preferably, the connection between the turbine(s) and the radial arm(s), and/or the 17 connection between the radial arm(s) and the central spindle, comprises a gear 18 arrangement.
Preferably, one or more of the turbines comprises one or more blades mounted about a 21 turbine rotation axis. More preferably, one or more of the turbines comprises a plurality of 22 blades. Yet more preferably, all the turbines comprise a plurality of blades.
24 Optionally, one or more of the blades are foils. In these embodiments, preferably all the blades are foils.
27 Optionally, the central spindle is parallel to the rotation axes of the turbines. Alternatively, 28 the central spindle is perpendicular to the rotation axes of the turbines.
Preferably, the radial arms extend from the central spindle to the perimeter of the duct.
31 This advantageously increases the cross-sectional area in which the apparatus can 32 capture energy from the fluid flow.
34 Optionally, the radial arms are offset from one another along the central spindle.
1 Optionally, at least two radial arms are positioned in the same plane perpendicular to the 2 central spindle.
4 Optionally, the radial arms are distributed along the length of the central spindle.
6 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 7 comprising one or more flaps. The one or more flaps may be located at an inlet opening of 8 the duct. Alternatively, or additionally, the one or more flaps may be located at a trailing 9 edge of the blades of the turbines. The flaps may induce turbulent fluid flow.
11 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 12 comprising a mesh across an inlet opening and/or an outlet opening of the duct. The 13 mesh advantageously induces turbulent fluid flow (by disrupting the fluid flow) and/or acts 14 as a barrier protecting the components of the energy harvesting apparatus (e.g., the turbines).
17 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 18 comprising flow restrictors located within the duct. The flow restrictions may narrow (or 19 widen) the cross-sectional shape of the passageway through the duct and may act as a bottle neck increasing the velocity of the fluid flow. The flow restrictors may disrupt the 21 fluid flow to create turbulent fluid flow. According to the Venturi effect, this restriction 22 results in a reduction of fluid pressure in the narrow region of the duct. This increases the 23 energy captured and further enhances the operation and efficiency of the energy 24 harvesting apparatus.
26 Preferably, the energy harvesting apparatus further comprises at least one generator 27 mechanically connected to the central spindle, employed to convert movement of the one 28 or more turbines (via movement of the central spindle) into electricity.
The energy harvesting apparatus may comprise a single generator. Alternatively, the 31 energy harvesting apparatus may comprise a plurality of generators, each generator 32 independently generating electricity. Preferably, each of the radial arms in a particular 33 plane perpendicular to the central spindle may connect to a single generator.
1 The one or more generators may be any suitable generator known in the art, for example, 2 a conventional electric generator.
4 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus comprising a lens. The lens is suitable for focusing solar radiation and inducing 6 convection air flow. This feature is particularly suited to a wind energy harvesting 7 apparatus; in other words, an apparatus not submerged under water. The lens may take 8 the form of a conventional optical lens. The lens may be orientated to focus solar radiation 9 in the region of an outlet opening of the duct. Consequently, the fluid at the outlet opening is hotter than the fluid at the inlet opening. In other words, the lens creates a thermal 11 gradient between the inlet opening and outlet opening of the duct. This thermal gradient 12 induces a convection fluid flow, increasing the velocity and kinetic energy of the fluid flow 13 through the duct. Thus, the lens enhances the output of the energy harvesting apparatus 14 as it increases the amount of electricity generated. It will be appreciated that the energy harvesting apparatus may comprise multiple lenses all orientated towards the outlet 16 opening of the duct.
18 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 19 comprising a layer of noise insulation. When the energy harvesting apparatus takes the form of a panel suitable for use on a high-rise building, in addition to the panel generating 21 electricity, the noise insulation would provide sound proofing for the building.
23 Preferably, the energy harvesting apparatus is a wind energy harvesting apparatus. In 24 these embodiments, the fluid flow is wind. The one or more foils comprise one or more aerofoils.
27 Alternatively, or additionally, the energy harvesting apparatus is a water flow energy 28 harvesting apparatus. In these embodiments, the fluid flow is a water flow. The one or 29 more foils comprise one or more hydrofoils.
31 One or more of the turbines may be a horizontal-axis wind turbine. Alternatively, or 32 additionally, one or more of the turbines may be a vertical-axis wind turbine, such as a 33 Darrieus wind turbine.
1 According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy 2 harvesting system comprising two or more energy harvesting apparatus in accordance 3 with the first aspect of the present invention.
Preferably, the two or more energy harvesting apparatus are stacked side-by-side and/or 6 upon each other.
8 The energy harvesting apparatus or energy harvesting system may take the form of a wall, 9 a fence, panel(s) for a structure or building or even a component within a structure. The energy harvesting apparatus or energy harvesting system may be located in regions of 11 high fluid flow, and particularly high turbulent fluid flow.
13 As an example, for a wind energy harvesting apparatus or system where the fluid of the 14 fluid flow is air, high turbulent air flow could be found near a motorway, an airport or even on a high-rise building.
17 As another example, for a liquid flow energy harvesting apparatus or system where the 18 fluid of the fluid flow is, for example water, high turbulent water flow could be found at a 19 tidal barrier, a tidal estuary, a dam, river flood defences, bridge supports or even within water transport pipes. It will be appreciated that a liquid flow energy harvesting apparatus 21 or system would be submerged under water.
23 Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement 24 the preferred or optional features of the first aspect of the invention or vice versa.
26 According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a use of an energy 27 harvesting apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, or an 28 energy harvesting system in accordance with the second aspect of the present invention, 29 for generating electrical energy.
31 Embodiments of the third aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement the 32 preferred or optional features of the first and/or second aspects of the invention or vice 33 versa.
1 According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of 2 manufacturing an energy harvesting apparatus comprising: 3 providing a duct; and 4 providing a central spindle located within the duct, the central spindle comprising one or more radial arms mechanically connected to the central spindle and extending radially 6 from the central spindle, each arm having one or more turbines mechanically connected to 7 the arm, 8 wherein, in use, rotation of the turbine drives rotation of the radial arm, which drives 9 rotation of the central spindle.
11 Preferably, the method of manufacturing an energy harvesting apparatus further 12 comprises providing a generator, the generator being mechanically connected to the 13 central spindle and employed to convert movement of the one or more turbines into 14 electricity.
16 In alternative methodologies, there may be provided a method which further comprises 17 characterising an air flow. Characterising the fluid flow may comprise characterising the 18 mean fluid flow speed, fluid flow speed distribution, turbulence, fluid flow shear profile, 19 distribution of fluid flow direction and long-term temporal fluid flow variations.
21 In alternative methodologies, there may be provided a method which further comprises 22 determining the optimum parameters of the fluid energy harvesting apparatus for use with 23 the fluid flow. Determining the optimum parameters of the energy harvesting apparatus 24 may comprise determining one or more of: the dimensions of the fluid energy harvesting apparatus; the dimension and shape of the duct, the shape and structure of the blades; the 26 relative positioning of two or more turbines within the duct; and the arrangement and 27 configuration of the generator.
29 Embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement the preferred or optional features of the first, second and/or third aspects of the invention or 31 vice versa.
33 Brief Description of Drawinas
1 There will now be described, by way of example only, various embodiments of the 2 invention with reference to the drawings, of which: 4 Figure 1 presents a perspective view of a central spindle and a radial arm having a turbine in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 7 Figure 2 presents a perspective view of a central spindle and a radial arm having two 8 turbines in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 presents a perspective view of a central spindle and two radial arms each having 11 two turbines in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 13 Figure 4 presents a perspective view of an energy harvesting apparatus in accordance 14 with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 16 Figure 5 presents a schematic cross-sectional view of an energy harvesting apparatus in 17 accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 19 Figure 6 presents a perspective view of a central spindle and a radial arm having a turbine in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 22 Figure 7 presents a perspective view of a central spindle and a radial arm having two 23 turbines in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 presents a perspective view of a central spindle and two radial arms each having 26 two turbines in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 28 Figure 9 presents a perspective view of an energy harvesting apparatus in accordance 29 with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 31 Figure 10 presents a schematic cross-sectional view of an energy harvesting apparatus in 32 accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 1 Figure 11 presents a schematic cross-sectional view of the distribution of radial arms along 2 the length of the central spindle in accordance with an embodiment of the present 3 invention; and Figure 12 presents a schematic cross-sectional view of the distribution of radial arms along 6 the length of the central spindle in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the 7 present invention.
9 In the description which follows, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale 11 and the proportions of certain parts have been exaggerated to better illustrate details and 12 features of embodiments of the invention.
14 Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments 16 An explanation of the present invention will now be described with reference to Figures 1 17 to 12.
19 Energy Harvesting Apparatus 21 Figure 1 depicts part of an energy harvesting apparatus la. More specifically, the energy 22 harvesting apparatus la is suitable for harvesting energy from a fluid flow such as wind, 23 tidal flows, or river flows.
The energy harvesting apparatus 1a comprises a central spindle 2 and a generator 3 26 mechanically connected to the central spindle 2. The generator 3 is centred about the 27 central spindle 2. Also mechanically connected to the central spindle 2 is a radial arm 4, 28 positioned at the opposite end of the central spindle 2 to that which is connected to the 29 generator 3. The radial arm 4 extends radially from the central spindle 2. The radial arm 4 is mechanically connected to the central spindle 2 through a first gear arrangement 5. The 31 radial arm 4 comprises a turbine 6 mechanically connected to the radial arm 4. The 32 turbine 6 is mechanically connected to the radial arm 4 through a second gear 33 arrangement 7, at the opposite end of the radial arm 4 to that which is connected to the 34 central spindle 2. The turbine 6 comprises three foils 8 radially extending from a turbine rotation axis 9.
2 In operation, a fluid flow 10 flows past the foils 8 inducing aerodynamic or hydrodynamic 3 forces. This force causes rotation of the foils 8, which rotates about the turbine rotation 4 axis 9. Through the second gear arrangement 7, rotation of the turbine 6 causes rotation of the radial arm 4 about its central axis R. Through the first gear arrangement 5, rotation 6 of the radial arm 4 causes rotation of the central spindle 2 about its central axis S. The 7 generator 3 converts movement of the central spindle 2 into electricity.
9 It will be appreciated the fluid flow 10 could take the form of a gas flow or a liquid flow.
The foils Stake the form of one or more aerofoils or one or more hydrofoils depending on ii whether the fluid flow 10 is a gas flow or a liquid flow.
13 The turbine 6 comprises three foils 8, but it will be appreciated that the turbine 6 may 14 comprise any suitable number of foils 8. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the exact shape and dimensions of the foils 8 is not critical to the invention and thus can be any 16 suitable shape and dimension.
18 Figure 2 depicts part of an energy harvesting apparatus 1 b. This energy harvesting 19 apparatus lb comprises all the features of the energy harvesting apparatus la depicted in Figure 1. In addition, the energy harvesting apparatus lb comprises a further turbine 11 21 on the radial arm 4, such that the radial arm 4 comprises two turbines 6,11. The second 22 turbine 11 is mechanically connected to the radial arm 4 at a position between the first 23 turbine 6 and the first gear arrangement 5. The energy harvesting apparatus lb depicted 24 in Figure 2 advantageously captures energy from the fluid flow 10 over a greater cross-sectional area than the energy harvesting apparatus la depicted in Figure 1.
27 Figure 3 depicts part of an energy harvesting apparatus lc. This energy harvesting 28 apparatus lc comprises all the features of the energy harvesting apparatus lb depicted in 29 Figure 2. In addition, the energy harvesting apparatus lc comprises a second radial arm 12 on the central spindle 2, such that the central spindle 2 comprises two radial arms 4,12, 31 each comprising two turbines 6,11. The second radial arm 12 is mechanically connected 32 to the central spindle 2 at a position between the first radial arm 4 and the generator 3.
33 The energy harvesting apparatus lc in Figure 3 advantageously captures energy from the 34 fluid flow 10 over an even greater cross-sectional area than the energy harvesting apparatus lb depicted in Figure 2.
2 Figure 4 depicts an energy harvesting apparatus 1d. This energy harvesting apparatus 1d 3 comprises all the features of the energy harvesting apparatus 1c depicted in Figure 3. In 4 addition, the energy harvesting apparatus further comprises an additional radial arm 13 and an additional turbine 14 on each arm, such that each radial arm 4,12,13 comprises 6 three turbines 6,11,14. The central spindle 2, radial arms 4,12,13 and turbines 6,11,14 are 7 located within a duct 15. The central spindle 2 is located centrally within the duct 15, with 8 each radial arm 4,12,13 extending to the internal perimeter of the duct 15.
9 Advantageously, the duct 15 acts to channel the fluid flow 10 through the energy harvesting apparatus 1d. ii
12 As can be seen in Figure 4, the duct 15 has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape.
13 However, it will be appreciated that the duct 15 may have any suitable cross-sectional 14 shape.
16 Figure 5 depicts an energy harvesting apparatus le having a duct 15. Within the duct is a 17 central spindle 2 and a generator 3 mechanically connected to the central spindle 2. The 18 central spindle 2 comprises four radial arms 4,12,13,16, each comprising a turbine 6. The 19 radial arms 4,12,13,16 are radially offset from one another around the central spindle 2.
Additionally, the radial arms 4,12,13,16 are distributed along the length of the central 21 spindle 2.
23 In operation, the fluid flow 10 enters the duct 15 through the inlet opening 17, flows past 24 the foils 8 inducing aerodynamic or hydrodynamic forces and then exits the duct 15 through the outlet opening 18. This force causes rotation of the foils 8, which rotates 26 about the turbine rotation axis 9. Through the second gear arrangement 7, rotation of the 27 turbine 6 causes rotation of the radial arm 4 about its central axis R. Through the first gear 28 arrangement (not shown), rotation of the radial arm 4 causes rotation of the central spindle 29 2 about its central axis S. The generator 3 converts rotational movement of the central spindle 2 into electricity.
32 Alternative Energy Harvesting Apparatus 34 Figure 6 depicts part of an energy harvesting apparatus if which is analogous to the part of an energy harvesting apparatus 1a depicted in Figure 1. Figure 7 depicts part of an 1 energy harvesting apparatus lg which is analogous to the part of an energy harvesting 2 apparatus lb depicted in Figure 2. Figure 8 depicts part of an energy harvesting 3 apparatus lh which is analogous to the part of an energy harvesting apparatus lc 4 depicted in Figure 3. Figure 9 depicts an energy harvesting apparatus li which is analogous to the energy harvesting apparatus ld depicted in Figure 4. Figure 10 depicts 6 an energy harvesting apparatus lj which is analogous to the energy harvesting apparatus 7 le depicted in Figure 5.
9 The difference between the embodiments depicted in Figures 6 to 10 compared to the embodiments depicted in Figures 1 to 5 is that vertical-axis wind turbines with a blade 19 11 are employed. Each turbine 6,11,14 comprises three blades 19, but it will be appreciated 12 that each turbine may comprise any suitable number of blades 19. Additionally, it will be 13 appreciated that the exact shape and dimensions of the blades 19 is not critical to the 14 invention and thus can be any suitable shape and dimension.
16 Additionally, the embodiments depicted in Figures 6 to 10 are absent of a second gear 17 arrangement. Instead, the blades 19 of the turbine 6,11,14 are positioned around the 18 radial arm 4,12,13,16, such that rotation of the turbine 6,11,14 directly causes rotation of 19 the radial arm 4,12,13,16 about its central axis R. Thus, in these embodiments, the turbine rotation axis 9 should be construed to be along the radial arm 4,12,13,16 and in 21 particular its central axis R. 23 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 24 comprising one or more flaps. The one or more flaps may be located at an inlet opening of the duct. Alternatively, or additionally, the one or more flaps may be located at a trailing 26 edge of the blades of the turbines. The flaps may induce turbulent fluid flow.
28 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 29 comprising a mesh across an inlet opening and/or an outlet opening of the duct. The mesh advantageously induces turbulent fluid flow (by disrupting the fluid flow) and/or acts 31 as a barrier protecting the components of the energy harvesting apparatus (e.g., the 32 turbines).
34 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus comprising flow restrictors located within the duct. The flow restrictions may narrow (or 1 widen) the cross-sectional shape of the passageway through the duct and may act as a 2 bottle neck increasing the velocity of the fluid flow. The flow restrictors may disrupt the 3 fluid flow to create turbulent fluid flow. According to the Venturi effect, this restriction 4 results in a reduction of fluid pressure in the narrow region of the duct. This increases the energy captured and further enhances the operation and efficiency of the energy 6 harvesting apparatus.
8 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 9 comprising a lens. The lens is suitable for focusing solar radiation and inducing convection air flow. This feature is particularly suited to a wind energy harvesting 11 apparatus; in other words, an apparatus not submerged under water. The lens may take 12 the form of a conventional optical lens. The lens may be orientated to focus solar radiation 13 in the region of an outlet opening of the duct. Consequently, the fluid at the outlet opening 14 is hotter than the fluid at the inlet opening. In other words, the lens creates a thermal gradient between the inlet opening and outlet opening of the duct. This thermal gradient 16 induces a convection fluid flow, increasing the velocity and kinetic energy of the fluid flow 17 through the duct. Thus, the lens enhances the output of the energy harvesting apparatus 18 as it increases the amount of electricity generated. It will be appreciated that the energy 19 harvesting apparatus may comprise multiple lenses all orientated towards the outlet opening of the duct.
22 In alternative embodiments, there may be provided an energy harvesting apparatus 23 comprising a layer of noise insulation. When the energy harvesting apparatus takes the 24 form of a panel suitable for use on a high-rise building, in addition to the panel generating electricity, the noise insulation would provide sound proofing for the building.
27 Distribution of Radial Arms 29 Figure 11 depicts one exemplary arrangement of the radial arms 4 along the length of the central spindle 2. In this arrangement, the radial arms 4 are offset from one another along 31 the central spindle 2, such that no two radial arms are directly opposing.
33 Figure 12 depicts an alternative exemplary arrangement of the radial arms 4 along the 34 length of the central spindle 2. In this arrangement, two radial arms are positioned opposite one another in the same plane perpendicular to the central spindle (plane A), and 1 a further two radial arms are positioned opposite one another in a different plane 2 perpendicular to the central spindle (plane B). In some embodiments, the radial arms in 3 plane A are connected to a first generator (not shown) and the radial arms in plane B are 4 connected to a second generator (not shown), the two generators independently generating electricity.
7 In a yet further exemplary arrangement, the distribution of radial arms may be a 8 combination of Figure 11 and Figure 12, in that there is at least one plane perpendicular to 9 the central spindle having at least two radial arms, while at least one other radial arm has no directly opposing arm.
12 Method of Manufacturing an Energy Harvesting Apparatus 14 A method of manufacturing an energy harvesting apparatus 1 comprises providing a duct 15; and providing a central spindle 2 located within the duct 15, the central spindle 2 16 comprising one or more radial arms 4 mechanically connected to the central spindle 2 and 17 extending radially from the central spindle 2, each arm 4 having one or more turbines 6 18 mechanically connected to the arm 4. In use, rotation of the turbine 6 drives rotation of the 19 radial arm 4 about its central axis R, which in turn drives rotation of the central spindle 2 about its central axis S. 22 In alternative methodologies, there may be provided a method which further comprises 23 characterising an air flow. Characterising the fluid flow may comprise characterising the 24 mean fluid flow speed, fluid flow speed distribution, turbulence, fluid flow shear profile, distribution of fluid flow direction and long-term temporal fluid flow variations.
27 In alternative methodologies, there may be provided a method which further comprises 28 determining the optimum parameters of the fluid energy harvesting apparatus for use with 29 the fluid flow. Determining the optimum parameters of the energy harvesting apparatus may comprise determining one or more of: the dimensions of the fluid energy harvesting 31 apparatus; the dimension and shape of the duct, the shape and structure of the blades; the 32 relative positioning of two or more turbines within the duct; and the arrangement and 33 configuration of the generator.
1 As discussed previously, the energy harvesting apparatus 1 has numerous advantages.
2 The energy harvesting apparatus 1 captures a greater sweepable area (i.e., the cross- 3 sectional area of a fluid flow 10 that may contact a turbine 6) than conventional horizontal- 4 axis wind turbines, and thus increases the efficiency of energy capturing. This is because the energy harvesting apparatus 1 captures a larger portion of the fluid flow 10 energy 6 incident upon the apparatus 1.
8 Furthermore, given that the position of the turbine 6 within the duct 15 changes as the 9 central spindle 2 rotates, this advantageously compensates for variations in fluid flow 10 across the cross-sectional area of the duct 15.
12 Additionally, by integrating the components of the energy harvesting apparatus 1 into a 13 duct 15, the apparatus 1 can be compact, is modular and can form part of a larger system.
14 The duct 15 also provides physical protection for the components housed therein e.g., the turbines 6. Not only can the energy harvesting apparatus 1 be discreetly integrated into 16 the environment in the form of walls, but it is also suitable for locations typically not 17 considered for apparatus known in the art, such as urban landscapes, motorways, airports 18 and even under water locations. Thus, the energy harvesting apparatus 1 is not limited to 19 remote areas (often considered areas of natural beauty) and so there is no reason for a negative public opinion.
22 The energy harvesting apparatus 1 can be optimised accordingly to the characteristics of 23 the fluid flow 10 such that the apparatus 1 is suitable for a broad range of applications.
An energy harvesting apparatus is disclosed. The energy harvesting apparatus comprises 26 a central spindle, and one or more radial arms mechanically connected to the central 27 spindle and extending radially from the central spindle. Each arm has one or more 28 turbines mechanically connected to the arm. The central spindle, radial arms and turbines 29 are located within a duct. In use, rotation of the turbine drives rotation of the radial arm, which drives rotation of the central spindle. The energy harvesting apparatus provides an 31 alternative apparatus for generating renewable energy with numerous advantages. The 32 apparatus harvests energy from a greater cross-sectional area, has minimal negative 33 environmental impact and is suitable for numerous locations and applications.
1 Throughout the specification, unless the context demands otherwise, the terms "comprise" 2 or "include", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", "includes" or "including' will 3 be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the 4 exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Furthermore, unless the context clearly demands otherwise, the term "or' will be interpreted as being inclusive not exclusive.
7 The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration 8 and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise 9 form disclosed. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others 11 skilled in the art to best utilise the invention in various embodiments and with various 12 modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Therefore, further 13 modifications or improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of 14 the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (20)

1 Claims 3 1. An energy harvesting apparatus comprising a central spindle, one or more radial arms 4 mechanically connected to the central spindle and extending radially from the central spindle, each arm having one or more turbines mechanically connected to the arm, 6 wherein, in use, rotation of the turbine drives rotation of the radial arm, which drives 7 rotation of the central spindle, 8 and wherein the central spindle, radial arms and turbines are located within a duct.
2. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus 11 comprises a plurality of radial arms.13
3. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein one or 14 more of the radial arms comprise a plurality of turbines.16
4. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein 17 the central spindle is located centrally within the duct.19
5. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the connection between the turbine and the radial arms, and/or the connection 21 between the radial arms and the central spindle, comprises a gear arrangement.23
6. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein 24 one or more of the turbines comprises one or more blades mounted about a turbine rotation axis.27
7. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 6, wherein one or more of the 28 blades are foils.
8. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the central 31 spindle is parallel to a rotation axes of the turbines.33
9. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the central 34 spindle is perpendicular to a rotation axes of the turbines.1
10. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein 2 the radial arms extend from the central spindle to the perimeter of the duct.4
11. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the radial arms are radially offset from one another around the central spindle.7
12. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein at 8 least two radial arms are positioned in the same plane perpendicular to the central 9 spindle.11
13. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein 12 the radial arms are distributed along the length of the central spindle.14
14. The energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one generator mechanically connected to the central spindle, 16 employed to convert movement of the one or more turbines into electricity.18
15. An energy harvesting system comprising two or more energy harvesting apparatus as 19 claimed in any of the preceding claims.21
16. Use of an energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14 or an 22 energy harvesting system according to claim 15 for generating electrical energy.24
17. A method of manufacturing an energy harvesting apparatus comprising: providing a duct; and 26 providing a central spindle located within the duct, the central spindle comprising one 27 or more radial arms mechanically connected to the central spindle and extending 28 radially from the central spindle, each arm having one or more turbines mechanically 29 connected to the arm, wherein, in use, rotation of the turbine drives rotation of the radial arm, which drives 31 rotation of the central spindle.33
18. The method of manufacturing an energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 17, 34 further comprising providing a generator, the generator being mechanically connected 1 to the central spindle and employed to convert movement of the one or more turbines 2 into electricity.4
19. The method of manufacturing an energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 17 or claim 18, further comprising characterising a fluid flow.7
20. The method of manufacturing an energy harvesting apparatus as claimed in claim 19, 8 further comprising determining the optimum parameters of the energy harvesting 9 apparatus for use with the fluid flow.
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JPS59110867A (en) * 1982-12-15 1984-06-26 Seijiro Matsumura Generation device by water-wheel having super extended shaft
US4509899A (en) * 1983-03-28 1985-04-09 Frederick Larry J Traversing blade-rotary propeller
KR20090130807A (en) * 2009-04-03 2009-12-24 이쌍용 Wind generator with horizontal axis impellers
KR101446106B1 (en) * 2014-03-04 2014-10-06 허만철 generate facilities using twin blade wind power generator of moving type

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US20100187829A1 (en) * 2009-01-26 2010-07-29 Egen Llc Fluid flow energy harvester
WO2011034893A2 (en) * 2009-09-17 2011-03-24 Egen Llc Improved rotary magnus energy harvester
GB201114677D0 (en) * 2011-08-25 2011-10-12 Brown Donald E Fluid flow capture & drive transfer
KR101408275B1 (en) * 2012-11-22 2014-06-17 코리아로팍스 주식회사 Tilting blade for vertical wind power generation

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS59110867A (en) * 1982-12-15 1984-06-26 Seijiro Matsumura Generation device by water-wheel having super extended shaft
US4509899A (en) * 1983-03-28 1985-04-09 Frederick Larry J Traversing blade-rotary propeller
KR20090130807A (en) * 2009-04-03 2009-12-24 이쌍용 Wind generator with horizontal axis impellers
KR101446106B1 (en) * 2014-03-04 2014-10-06 허만철 generate facilities using twin blade wind power generator of moving type

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