WO1982000840A1 - Appareil d'augmentation de la vitesse d'ecoulement de l'eau pour la production d'energie electrique et autres utilisations - Google Patents

Appareil d'augmentation de la vitesse d'ecoulement de l'eau pour la production d'energie electrique et autres utilisations Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1982000840A1
WO1982000840A1 PCT/US1981/001202 US8101202W WO8200840A1 WO 1982000840 A1 WO1982000840 A1 WO 1982000840A1 US 8101202 W US8101202 W US 8101202W WO 8200840 A1 WO8200840 A1 WO 8200840A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
water
side wall
cowling
side walls
walls
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1981/001202
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Energy Systems Corp Hydrodynamic
P Borgren
Original Assignee
Hydrodynamic Energy Systems Co
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
Priority claimed from US06/185,486 external-priority patent/US4363564A/en
Application filed by Hydrodynamic Energy Systems Co filed Critical Hydrodynamic Energy Systems Co
Priority to BR8108790A priority Critical patent/BR8108790A/pt
Publication of WO1982000840A1 publication Critical patent/WO1982000840A1/fr
Priority to DK204582A priority patent/DK204582A/da
Priority to FI821613A priority patent/FI821613L/fi

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Classifications

    • 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
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
    • E02B15/00—Cleaning or keeping clear the surface of open water; Apparatus therefor
    • E02B15/04—Devices for cleaning or keeping clear the surface of open water from oil or like floating materials by separating or removing these materials
    • E02B15/046—Collection of oil using vessels, i.e. boats, barges
    • 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
    • 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
    • F03B13/14—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 wave energy
    • F03B13/141—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 wave energy with a static energy collector
    • F03B13/144—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 wave energy with a static energy collector which lifts water above sea level
    • F03B13/145—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 wave energy with a static energy collector which lifts water above sea level for immediate use in an energy converter
    • 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
    • Y02A—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02A20/00—Water conservation; Efficient water supply; Efficient water use
    • Y02A20/20—Controlling water pollution; Waste water treatment
    • Y02A20/204—Keeping clear the surface of open water from oil spills
    • 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

Definitions

  • the present invention relates as indicated to water treatment apparatus.
  • the broad invention concepts are utilized for generating electric power from wave action forces, tides, and bodies of water having uni-directional flow such as rivers. This is accomplished by increasing the velocity of the water along longitudinally and transversely curved surfaces for driving generating equipment.
  • these same velocity increasing capabilities are used to separate water from contaminants, such as oil or chemical wastes, with a vessel being provided with longitudinally and transversely curved surfaces at the hull thereof.
  • Wave action generators for producing electric energy are well known in the art. Such generators frequently operate on the principle of using the vertical motion inherent in the formation and movement of the waves to effect vertical movement of a component of the generating system.
  • a typical prior art system translates such vertical movement to rotary movement to directly or indirectly drive a generator shaft or the like by means of which the electric power is generated.
  • Examples of vertical-to-rotaxy systems are disclosed in U.S. Patent 870,706 to H.P. Woodard, U.S. Patent 3,894,241 to S. Kaplan, and U.S. Patent 3,959,663 to J.V. Rubsy.
  • Other systems use the vertical wave motion to operate pumps for pumping the water to a storage vessel or reservoir, with the hydrostatic pressure of the stored water subsequently driving a turbine generator or the like by means of which electric power is directly produced.
  • a plurality of pump assemblies are mounted around the silo or along the walls of the coffer dam, with the piston of each pump being operatively connected to a float member subjected to wave action. As wave forces contact the float members, the same are raised, thereby raising the piston and creating a negative pressure within the lower pump chamber, as a result of which water is directed from the reservoir into such lower pump chambers. As a result, the water level of the reservoir is reduced. Due to the hydrostatic pressure thus produced relative to the water surrounding the silo or coffer dam, water is forced through turbine generators to produce energy, with the water exhausted from the turbine entering the reservoir to complete the cycle. A significant amount of electrical energy can thereby be produced.
  • tide action generators With regard to tide action generators, the basic concept of utilizing differences in water level due to tide conditions to create electrical energy is well known in the art. Extensive research has been conducted in this area for many years due to the consistency of the tidal movements and the differential in high and low tides at particular locations. However, tidal generators have also comprised, for the most part, structure or devices by which the vertical water drop is translated into rotary motion to drive power generating equipment.
  • a plurality of gates are positioned at the front of the apparatus and serve to direct the oil-water mixture into the separation area, with the separation being primarily effected by virtue of the different specific gravities of the oil and water. Both the oil or water are separately directed to and stored on a barge to which the skimming apparatus is operatively connected.
  • U.S. Patent 4,120,793 to P.G. Strain discloses a vessel having a bow formed with apertures through which oil and water are directed. The oil and water mixture passes into conduits which direct the mixture to separation apparatus.
  • U.S. Patent 4,058,461 to T.I. Gaw also shows a vessel wherein the bow is of a specific configuration, with the oil-water mixture being directed into a collecting area and thereafter pumped into settling tanks. After a period of settling, the water is separated from the oil, with the oil being collected and the water pumped out of the tanks through discharge pipes.
  • U.S. Patent 3,890,234 to Frank Galicia discloses an oil separation and recovery device in which the incoming oil-gas mixture is directed across corrugated- shaped troughs which are upwardly and forwardly inclined to facilitate separation of the oil from the water, with the oil thereafter, due to its buoyancy, being collected and pumped through a discharge pipe.
  • a principal feature of the present invention when used for generating electrical energy is the adaptability of the invention to environments where wave action, tidal action or uni-directional water flow to an appreciable extent exists, or combinations of these water forces. It will be understood that in each of these environments a particular installation system is preferred, although in each instance the results achieved are based on the same scientific premise. Specifically, in each instance water is diverted along a curved path at the end of which is a cowling of reduced diameter toward the outlet end thereof, with such outlet end directly communicating with a turbine by means of which electrical energy is produced.
  • the invention is specifically adaptable to varying water conditions.
  • wave action is the source from which the power is derived
  • a generally V-shaped structure is arranged at the appropriate location from the shore, with the apex of the V extending outwardly.
  • the motion of the water is confined essentially to the depth of the wave, and the waves will be split by the apex of the V for passage along the sides of the structure.
  • the sides are both longitudinally and transversely curved, and as a result there is a substantial increase in velocity of the water as it passes along the curved wall.
  • each wall Adjacent the inner end of each wall is positioned a cowling the outer end of which is shaped generally complimentary to the shape of the wall immediately adjacent the entry end of the cowling.
  • the cowling is tapered inwardly toward its discharge end at which is positioned the turbine to be driven by the water.
  • the cowling can be a separately formed member, or the side wall can be shaped to provide a generally circular, inwardly tapering opening through which the water, at high velocity, passes into the turbine. It has been imperically determined that the velocity of the water passing through the cowling and into the turbine is approximately 30 feet per second.
  • a second generally V-shaped structure either separate from or integral with the first is positioned downstream of the first to take advantage of the return tide.
  • an additional pair of curved side walls leading to an apex are arranged, with the return tide flow being directed to separate cowlings located at the end of the longitudinally and transversely curved walls and communicating at their outer ends with generating turbines.
  • the invention is adapted for use in river conditions by providing a single longitudinally and trans- versely curved wall surface at the end of which is positioned the turbine generator as above described.
  • the water flow is split, with a portion of the flow continuing downstream, and the other portion being directed along the curved wall surface, with the water discharged from the turbine likewise being directed downstream.
  • the structure is modified to increase, in both directions, the velocity of the water as it approaches the structure.
  • the side walls and turbines subjected to water flow in one direction can be vertically staggered relative to the side walls and turbines of the side walls subjected to water flow in the opposite direction. In this manner, conservation of space is provided.
  • the directional cowling is preferably provided with grids or filters at appropriate locations therealong thereby to provide a reasonably clean flow of water to the turbines.
  • the present invention is utilized for separating contaminents, such as oil, from water
  • the invention is characterized by its ability to treat the incoming oil-water mixture so as to accelerate or increase in velocity the mixture along curved paths, with the resulting speed of travel of the collected mixture being such that it is, without further assistance, directed through the boat to a barge or the like towed by the boat.
  • the bow of the vessel is shaped so as to' provide a front apex, and longitudinally and curved sidewalls are arranged relatively adjacent the sides of the vessel at the front thereof, with the innermost ends of each adjacent pair of walls terminating in a central opening through which the mixture passes to a barge or similar apparatus towed behind the vessel.
  • the speed of the vessel and the acceleration of the oil-water mixture as described permits flow of the mixture to a separating device without necessitating the use of the pumps positioned either in the bow of the vessel or in the pipes or conduits through which the mixture passes.
  • the invention is further characterized by the provision of a separate, towed vessel having separating apparatus by means of which the oil-water mixture can be separated, with the oil being conveyed to a storage vessel, and the water being discharged overboard.
  • the entire separation and collection process can be carried out while the vessel is traveling.
  • the vessel collecting the oil-water mixture can comprise any of a number of commercially available boats, with suitable modification to include the collecting structure and pipes or conduits through which the mixture is directed under achieved pressures to the barge operatively connected to the vessel.
  • the barge can be of simplified construction, containing a separator to receive the mixture, a storage tank into which the separated oil can be passed for storage, and an outlet pipe for discharging water.
  • the entire assembly, including the barge can be manufactured at relatively low cost.
  • the collecting and separating vessel is also well suited to remove other pollutants from water surfaces. For example, it is common, knowledge that various chemicals such as D.D.T. accumulate in concentrated amounts in the top 1/4" to 1/2" of the water surface.
  • the apparatus of the present invention can collect such concentrated amounts of pollutants and treat the same so as to remove the pollutants from the water, which is thereafter discharged overboard from the vessel.
  • pollutant can be passed at increased velocities in accordance with the invention through treatment equipment carried by the trailing barge for collecting the pollutant.
  • treatment equipment carried by the trailing barge for collecting the pollutant.
  • Such equipment can comprise, for example, beds of activated charcoal to which the pollutant adheres and which can be destroyed or renewed to provide a fresh adherent material.
  • the treatment material such as charcoal can be removed from the trailing barge and processed on shore.
  • the portability of the collecting vessel is of course a significant advantage.
  • Present collecting vessels are characterized by their relatively large size and limited utilization.
  • the present invention comprises a relatively small vessel which is a modified boat of comparatively small dimension and consequently low cost.
  • the vessel can be transported easily by airplane or helicopter to the area of the oil spill or other pollution. This adds an obviously desirable dimension to the advantages of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 is a top plan view of a water power generator particularly designed for wave action environment
  • Figure 2 is a water power generator specifically designed for tide water environment
  • Figure 3 is a water power generator especially designed for uni-directional water flow conditions such as rivers;
  • Figure 4 is a top plan view of a further form of the invention, particularly designed for river conditions where tidal action exists;
  • Figure 5 is a partially diagrammatic perspective view of the Figure 1 form of the invention, showing more clearly the curvature and configuration of the side walls of the structure;
  • Figure 6 is a fragmentary front elevational view showing in more detail the directional cowling mounted at the end of the side wall adjacent the turbine generator;
  • Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken on lines 7-7 of Figure 5 and showing the transverse cur vature of the side wall at the section line;
  • Figure 8 is a sectional view taken on line 8-8 of Figure 5;
  • Figure 9 is a sectional view taken on line 9-9 of Figure 5;
  • Figure 10 is a top plan view of a collecting vessel in accordance with the basic invention concepts, shown operatively connected to a barge towed by the vessel;
  • Figure 11 is a side elevational view of the assembly shown in Fig. 10;
  • Figure 12 is a front elevational view of the collecting vessel, showing the adjacent collecting cavities and the varying transverse cross-sectional configuration along the side walls of' the cavities;
  • Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 13-13 of Figure 12, and
  • Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 14-14 of Figure 12.
  • FIG. 1 there is illustrated therein a structural body generally indicated at 10 which is permanently installed relatively close to shore.
  • the Fig. 1 form of the invention is particularly adaptable to environments where wave action forces are encountered, and the structure 10 can be mounted permanently at the desired location in terms of distance from the shore and depth of water so as to expose the side walls thereof to maximum wave action forces.
  • the structure 10 can be formed of any suitable material, for example, poured concrete, structural steel either covered or systematized to prevent corrosion, or combinations of these materials, or other suitable building materials.
  • the surface of the structure including the surface of the side walls to be presently described, can be coated if desired to reduce building costs and prolong the life of the structure or, in the case of the side walls, to reduce the friction of the water passing therealong.
  • the structure 10 as shown in Fig. 1 includes two longitudinally and transversely curved side walls 12 and 14, the outer ends of which merge into an apex 16.
  • a cowling means commonly designated at 18 and diagrammatically shown in Fig. 1.
  • the outlet end of each cowling member communicates with a turbine generator 20 by means of which electrical energy is produced from the power of the water passing along the side walls.
  • Fig. 1 illustrate the path of diversi of the water as it approaches the structure 10.
  • the wave directly engaging the side walls 12 and 14 will continue therealong as will be presently described with reference to Fig. 5, and the wave contacting the structure in the region of the apex 16 will be split, passing to either one or the other of the side walls.
  • the structure 10 is intended to capture the force of the wave action only insofar as the wave action contacts the side walls of the structure, with the structure not being attended to confine or in any way inhibit waves passing to either side of the structure.
  • turbines which can be used satisfactorily in accordance with the present invention are the "TURE turbine units” manufactured by the Hydro-Turbine Division of Allis-Chalmers, York, Pennsylvania and turbine pumps manufactured by Johnston Pump Company, Glendora, California, with turbine pump Nos. 27CC and 27DC being exemplary.
  • the latter have impellers which are approximately 19"-21" in diameter, and are particularly adaptable to use in relative shallow wave action environments. It will be understood that turbines of larger impeller diameter can also be used, depending upon the environmental conditions.
  • FIG. 5 there is diagrammatically illustrated therein in perspective view a more clear illustration of the longitudinal and transverse curvature of the side walls 12 and 14, respectively.
  • the cowling 18 located at the inner ends of each side wall is shown positioned within the inner end of the side walls, with each cowling communicating at its inner end with a turbine 20.
  • the side walls are longitudinally curved from the apex toward the turbine, with the angle of inclination adjacent each wall being relatively flat, that is, approaching a plane generally perpendicular to the path of movement of the wave.
  • Each wall 12 and 14 relatively adjacent the apex 16 is. essentially planer, with transverse curvature increasing toward the turbine end of the wall.
  • the longitudinal curvature is continuous, as above noted, and the transverse curvature is increasingly more pronounced, as noted in Figs. 7-9.
  • This transverse and longitudinal curvature results in a rapid rollover of the water as it passes along the side walls, as shown in arrows located along each side wall 12 and 14.
  • the cowling member 18 is shown therein on a somewhat larger scale.
  • the member preferably is a separate member and positioned within the closed, tapered end of the side wall.
  • the cowling tapers in diameter from the outer end thereof to the inner end thereof, and filters 22 and 24 are preferably provided at the inlet and outlet ends of the cowling.
  • the cross-sectional configuration of the cowling will vary, but in the form shown, the cowling is generally circular in cross section, tapering from a larger to a small diameter as shown.
  • the filter members 22 and 24 are for the purpose of removing debris or the like from the water, prior to passage of the same into the turbine generator, which is diagrammatically shown both in Figs. 5 and 6.
  • each side wall can be configured to provide a tapered opening similar in shape to the cowling member 18. This would avoid the need for a separate member, although filter means would preferably still be employed for the indicated purpose.
  • the cowling member is encased within the inner end of the wall, although total encasement would not be absolutely necessary. The closing of the side wall at the inner end thereof, or the provision of a separate cowling, or both, is dictated by the need for retention of the swirling water passing along each side wall, and as long as a substantial amount of the water is retained for turbine generating purposes, it is sufficient.
  • the side walls 12, along with the structure 10, can be formed of any suitable material, with concrete being one example.
  • the surfaces of the walls can be coated with a friction-reducing material, such as fiberglass or the like.
  • a friction-reducing material such as fiberglass or the like.
  • FIG. 1 is specifically designed for a wave action environment, although the general concepts of the present invention are adaptable to river and/or tidal conditions as well.
  • Figs. 2-4 illustrate such other environments,with Fig. 2 diagrammatically illustrating in plan view a structure utilizing or taking advantage of tide action;
  • Fig. 3 illustrating a system installed in a body of water, for example a river, wherein the flow is substantially or entirely uni-directional, and
  • Fig. 4 illustrating a system particularly adapted to a river environment where tidal conditions also exist.
  • the structure 30 diagrammatica illustrated therein includes side walls 32, 34, 36 and 38.
  • the side walls 32 and 34 merge at their outer ends to an apex 40, and the opposite walls 36 and 38 likewise merge at their outer ends to an apex 42.
  • Cowling means commonly designated at 18 is positioned at the inner end of each curved side wall as described, with each cowling in turn communicating with a separate turbine generator 20.
  • each side wall is preferably identical or similar to the curvature of the side walls 12 and 14 as shown in Fig. 5. It will be apparent that during tidal conditions, water flows first in one direction and then returns in the other, as depicted by arrows at the top and bottom of Fig. 2. Thus, during conditions of high tide, for example, water impinges upon the side walls 36 and 38, increasing velocity in the process, to drive the associated turbine generators 20. The spent water is thereafter directed downstream of the building structure. During periods approaching low tide, the flow is of course in the opposite direction, with the flow impinging on side walls 32 and 34, with the built-up forces from the water due to their passage along the walls driving the associated turbine generators 20. It is of.
  • the Fig. 2 installation is preferably in an open body of water, and the system can be permanently installed in any suitable manner and with any suitable materials.
  • the side walls can be coated if desired with a friction-reducing coating to reduce the friction losses occurring as the water impinges on the side walls in both directions of movement of the water. In this manner, the horizontal force component of the water impinging upon the side walls is utilized to a maximum in increasing the velocity of the water as it passes along the side walls, thereby maximizing the output of the turbine generators.
  • the building structure 50 essentially forms one-half of the double side wall structure shown in Fig. 1, with the side wall 52 communicating at its inner end with cowling means 18 and turbine generator 20.
  • the side wall 52 terminates at its outer end in an apex 54 formed cojointly with the adjoining wall 56 of the structure, with the apex 54 diverting water along the side walls and permitting unimpeded water flow past the adjoining wall 56 of the structure.
  • the longitudinal and transverse curvature of the side wall 52 is preferably identical with or similar to the configuration shown in Fig. 5 thereby producing the increased velocity and thus force as described above.
  • FIG. 4 there is illustrated therein a system particularly designed for rivers, tidal areas or other environments where natural currents are present.
  • the system comprises separate structures 60 and 62, with the structure 60 including curved side walls 64 and 66, and the structure 62 having curved walls 68 and 70.
  • the structures 60 and 62 adjacently disposed as shown in Fig. 4 serve to funnel the incoming water toward the relatively narrow opening between the central curved portions of the structures.
  • cowling means commonly designated at 18, and a turbine generator or generators 20 are schematically shown communicating with the outlet ends of the cowling means.
  • Fig. 4 system is particularly adaptable to environments where tidal action is present, and is similar in many respects in this regard to Fig. 2.
  • the longitudinally and transversely curved side walls are positioned so as to be converged at their inner ends rather than being diverged as shown in Fig. 2.
  • the vertical location of the side walls 66 and 70 and will be such as to provide optimum power production, and these walls may be at a position above or below the major extent of the oppositely disposed walls 64 and 68.
  • a pair of turbines, superimposed may be employed, with one turbine servicing the water directed thereto from walls 66 and 70, and the other receiving water at high velocity traveling along the walls 64 and 68.
  • the speed or velocity of the water is increased proportionately. For example, if a wave is traveling at 16 feet per second, a typical speed, the water from such wave as it approaches the turbine generators will be traveling approximately 40 feed per second.
  • the transverse curvature of the side walls serves to confine the flow path, with the transverse curvature increasing as the velocity increases so as to preclude or inhibit the water from being diverted away from the surface of the side wall. It has been demonstrated that this combination of longitudinal and transverse curvature of the side walls is of fundamental importance in the present invention.
  • E 1 ⁇ 2 mv 2 , where E is energy, m is mass, and v is the velocity of the mass, in this case the velocity of the fluid.
  • the density (p) of a mass is defined as the amount of the mass in a specific volume, or:
  • volume of the fluid in an assumed or predetermined amount of time would be a product of the cross-sectional area (A) of the opening times the velocity (v) of the fluid times the amount of time (t), or:
  • the collecting vessel is generally indicated at 100 and includes a body portion 102 and a bridge 104, shown only in Figures 11 and 12.
  • the vessel 100 can be formed of any suitable construction, and is subsequently modified to include the collecting features in accordance with the present invention.
  • an elongated opening In the bow 106 of the boat, an elongated opening
  • a flow diverter 118 extends between the walls 112 and 114, and inasmuch as the walls 112 and 114 are longitudinally rearwardly curved in addition to being transversely curved, the diverter 118 serves to split the incoming oil-water mixture into the collection areas defined by the walls 110-112 and the walls 114-116.
  • the longitudinal, or front to rear, curvature of the walls can be seen in Figure 10, with the curvature becoming more pronounced toward the area at which adjacent walls merge.
  • the transverse curvature of the walls tapers rearwardly from a very gradual curvature toward the diverted 118, reference being made to Fig.
  • FIG. 13 to a more sub stantial transverse curvature toward the end of each wall, as shown in Fig. 14.
  • Figs. 13 and 14 are sectional views taken along wall 114, it will be understood that the transverse curvature of walls 110, 112 and 116 is similar.
  • the opening defined by each pairs of walls 110-112 and 114-116 is closed at the top and bottom by walls 120 and 122.
  • the rearwardly extending walls 120 and 122 taper downwardly and upwardly, respectively, whereby the incoming mixture is in effect funneled through conduits 124 and 126.
  • each conduit at the forward end thereof is similar in cross-sectional area to the area bounded by the inner end of the side walls and the top and bottom walls 120 and 122.
  • the conduits 122 and 126 extend generally horizontally from the collecting area and then upwardly as indicated at 126' in Figure 11 so as to clear the deck of the vessel adjacent the stern.
  • the conduits thereafter assume a generally horizontal orientation as shown at 127 prior to merging into a single conduit 130, best seen in Figure 10.
  • the conduit 130 discharges into a separator generally indicated at 132 which is mounted on a barge generally indicated at 134.
  • the separator per se forms no part of the present invention, and can comprise a centrigal separator of commercially available construction whereby the heavier water gravitates to the outside of the separator and the oil remains in the center or vortex portion of the separator.
  • the oil is discharged from the separator through a discharge pipe 136 into a storage vessel 138, and a water discharge pipe 140 communicates with the separator relatively adjacent the bottom thereof for discharging water from the separator overboard.
  • the oil is thus collected in the storage tank 138 and, when full, can be pumped therefrom to condition the apparatus for further separation and collection.
  • the vessel 100 is powered by twin engines commonly designated at E, each of which drives a propeller commonly designated at 150 in conventional fashion.
  • the type of engines provided form no part of the present invention, although they are preferably of sufficient size to propel the vessel at 15 miles per hour, or greater.
  • the barge 134 can be towed from the vessel 100 by tow lines commonly designated at 152 or by other forms of connection if desired. Although it will be understood that the barge 134 could be constructed and arranged to serve as the driving vessel, with the vessel 100 in effect being pushed, it is preferred that that vessel 100 be driven, and the barge 134 be towed.
  • the opening 108 can be covered by means of a plurality of cylinders commonly designated at 160, and gates 162 associated with each cylinder. As shown in Fig. 10, preferably 4 cylinders and associ ated gates are provided, with the gates being shown lowered in Fig. 11 so as to close the openings.
  • the gates 162 are raised by the cylinders 160 thereby affording access to the scoop opening 108.
  • Hydraulic cylinders commonly designated at 164 are mounted on the top wall 120, with the rods 166 of the cylinders engaging the top and bottom walls 120 and 122. By proper regulation of the cylinders 164, the elevation of the walls 120 and 122 can thus be adjusted so as to position the opening 108 in an optimum elevation for collecting the oil-water mixture.
  • an important feature of the present invention is the manner in which the mixture is accelerated as it passes along the curved walls 110-116. It is fundamental that water will travel the length of the curved walls 110-116 in exactly the same period of time that it would take the water to travel in a straight path from the tip of the diverter 118 to a rearward point parallel to the front ends of the conduits 124 and 126. Since the full path along the curved side walls is significantly longer, the speed or velocity of the water is increased proportionately. The water is of course directed into the opening 108 at a velocity equal to the velocity of the vessel. It is the transverse and longitudinally curved surfaces which produce the acceleration or increased velocity of the water, as opposed, for example, to simply straight walls which direct the water into collecting conduits.
  • curvature longitudinally and transversely may not be absolutely critical, it appears, as above noted, that maximum velocity will be achieved where the longitudinal curvature is parabolic. It is difficult to calculate the overall velocity increase of the water, due to frictional forces and the fact that water contacts the longitudinal side walls along virtually the entire surface of curvature thereof.
  • the vessel 100 it is preferable to propel the vessel 100 at speeds of 15 miles per hour, or greater. Such speeds serve two advantageous purposes. First, the production or quantity of oil-water mixture treated is increased since the quantity of mixture collected is obviously proportional to the speed of the vessel. Secondly, the speed of the vessel, and consequently the relative speed between the water and the vessel, forms the base for increase velocity by virtue of the transverse and longitudinal curvature of the walls 110-116. At such speeds, and without the aid of pumps, the mixture flows through the conduits 124, 126, 126', 127 and 130 to the separator 132. The vessel can therefore be manufactured or modified at minimal expense, with only the opening 108, side walls 110-116, and conduits 124, 126, and 126' requiring installation.
  • an ordinary power boat can be quickly and inexpensively converted to additionally function as a vessel for collecting oil-water mixtures resulting from oil spills.
  • the gates 162 can be moved to a closed position, and the vessel used for normal recreational purposes.
  • the side walls 110-116 can be formed of any suitable material, with fiberglass being one example. Fiberglass provides a low friction surface, thereby reducing friction loss. If wood or metal are used for the side walls, the exposed surfaces thereof are preferably coated with a friction-reducing material.
  • the conduits 124, 126, 126', 127 and 130 can likewise be formed of any suitable material, also preferably friction reducing to the extent possible.
  • barge 134 has been illustrated in the application drawings and described above for providing on-site separating and storing capacity, it will be apparent that other separating and collecting apparatus could be provided as well.
  • the oil spill is relatively adjacent the shore, the oil-water mixture could be directed, with possible pumping assistance, to separating and collecting installations on shore.
  • the quantity of oil-water mixture capable of being processed obviously depends on the size and speed of the vessel. However, at a speed of 15 miles per hour, the preferred minimum speed of operation, and with each conduit 124 and 126 being one foot in diamter, approximately twenty-five (25) tons per minute of oil-water mixture can be collected and processed.
  • the operating capacity of the centrifugal separator must obviously be commensurate with the volume treated.
  • the vessel can, if desired, be transported to'the site by airplane or helicopter, an obvious advantage when compared with relatively large collecting apparatus presently utilized for the same purpose.
  • the above description relates primarily to treatment of oil spills, it can also be employed to treat other surface located pollutants.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
  • Electrolytic Production Of Non-Metals, Compounds, Apparatuses Therefor (AREA)
  • Water Treatment By Electricity Or Magnetism (AREA)

Abstract

Appareil d'augmentation de la vitesse de l'eau ou de liquides contenant de l'eau, comprenant des moyens de structure (10, 110-116) interposes dans le chemin d'ecoulement d'eau ou se deplacant par rapport a l'eau. Les moyens de structure comprennent au moins une paroi laterale (12, 110) qui est incurvee longitudinalement a partir d'un point de deviation (16, 118) a son extremite exterieure vers une courbe qui s'aplatit progressivement a son extremite interieure. La paroi est courbee transversalement depuis une surface plane a son extremite exterieure vers une courbure presque circulaire a son extremite interieure. La vitesse de l'eau ou du liquide est ainsi augmentee sensiblement. Une telle augmentation de la vitesse peut etre utilisee pour la production d'energie electrique ou pour la recuperation et la separation d'huile et autres materiaux polluants de l'eau. Dans cette derniere utilisation, on propulse un bateau (100) dans l'eau, et la vitesse accrue permet au melange eau-substance polluante d'etre amene a une installation de separation (132) sans pompage.
PCT/US1981/001202 1980-09-09 1981-09-09 Appareil d'augmentation de la vitesse d'ecoulement de l'eau pour la production d'energie electrique et autres utilisations WO1982000840A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BR8108790A BR8108790A (pt) 1980-09-09 1981-09-09 Aparelho para aumentar a velocidade da agua ou de liquidos que contem agua
DK204582A DK204582A (da) 1980-09-09 1982-05-06 Apparat til foroegelse af hastigheden af en vandstroem til produktion af elektrisk kraft og andre anvendelser
FI821613A FI821613L (fi) 1980-09-09 1982-05-07 Anordning foer oekande av hastigheten hos en vattenstroemning i och foer generering av elkraft och fandra aendamaol

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US06/185,486 US4363564A (en) 1980-09-09 1980-09-09 Water power generator
US185486 1980-09-09
US23137181A 1981-02-03 1981-02-03
US231371810203 1981-02-03

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1982000840A1 true WO1982000840A1 (fr) 1982-03-18

Family

ID=26881173

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1981/001202 WO1982000840A1 (fr) 1980-09-09 1981-09-09 Appareil d'augmentation de la vitesse d'ecoulement de l'eau pour la production d'energie electrique et autres utilisations

Country Status (14)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0059215A1 (fr)
KR (1) KR830007964A (fr)
AU (1) AU7205081A (fr)
BR (1) BR8108790A (fr)
CA (1) CA1155367A (fr)
DD (1) DD201820A5 (fr)
DK (1) DK204582A (fr)
IL (1) IL63776A0 (fr)
MA (1) MA19266A1 (fr)
NO (1) NO821509L (fr)
OA (1) OA07095A (fr)
PL (1) PL232961A1 (fr)
PT (1) PT73633B (fr)
WO (1) WO1982000840A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU2007200888B1 (en) * 2007-02-28 2007-09-20 Michael Dileo Electricity generation device

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN113981927B (zh) * 2021-11-16 2023-09-01 青岛嘉德水处理材料有限公司 一种水利工程用河道浮漂收集装置

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1375232A (en) * 1916-06-26 1921-04-19 Allan C Rush Breakwater and pier and method of making the same
US2641108A (en) * 1948-03-16 1953-06-09 Wave Power Dev Ltd Means for harnessing wave power
US3667234A (en) * 1970-02-10 1972-06-06 Tecnico Inc Reducing and retarding volume and velocity of a liquid free-flowing in one direction
US4034231A (en) * 1975-04-28 1977-07-05 Conn J L Ocean tide and wave energy converter
US4033876A (en) * 1976-02-06 1977-07-05 Diosdado L. Cocjin Spilled oil retriever and anti-water pollution water craft
US4111811A (en) * 1976-04-01 1978-09-05 Mitsubishi Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Apparatus for collecting effluent oil
US4172689A (en) * 1977-12-14 1979-10-30 Ivar Thorsheim Wave power generator

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US1375232A (en) * 1916-06-26 1921-04-19 Allan C Rush Breakwater and pier and method of making the same
US2641108A (en) * 1948-03-16 1953-06-09 Wave Power Dev Ltd Means for harnessing wave power
US3667234A (en) * 1970-02-10 1972-06-06 Tecnico Inc Reducing and retarding volume and velocity of a liquid free-flowing in one direction
US4034231A (en) * 1975-04-28 1977-07-05 Conn J L Ocean tide and wave energy converter
US4033876A (en) * 1976-02-06 1977-07-05 Diosdado L. Cocjin Spilled oil retriever and anti-water pollution water craft
US4111811A (en) * 1976-04-01 1978-09-05 Mitsubishi Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Apparatus for collecting effluent oil
US4172689A (en) * 1977-12-14 1979-10-30 Ivar Thorsheim Wave power generator

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU2007200888B1 (en) * 2007-02-28 2007-09-20 Michael Dileo Electricity generation device
WO2008104024A1 (fr) * 2007-02-28 2008-09-04 Michael Dileo Dispositif de génération d'électricité

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
PT73633B (en) 1983-11-30
PL232961A1 (fr) 1982-03-15
AU7205081A (en) 1982-03-18
MA19266A1 (fr) 1982-04-01
NO821509L (no) 1982-05-07
DD201820A5 (de) 1983-08-10
DK204582A (da) 1982-05-06
IL63776A0 (en) 1981-12-31
OA07095A (fr) 1987-01-31
BR8108790A (pt) 1982-08-24
CA1155367A (fr) 1983-10-18
EP0059215A1 (fr) 1982-09-08
KR830007964A (ko) 1983-11-09
PT73633A (en) 1981-10-01

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