CN116981844A

CN116981844A - Energy harvesting devices, systems, and methods of manufacture

Info

Publication number: CN116981844A
Application number: CN202280020615.3A
Authority: CN
Inventors: K·韦拉尤坦
Original assignee: Catrick Technology Co ltd
Current assignee: Catrick Technology Co ltd
Priority date: 2021-03-11
Filing date: 2022-03-09
Publication date: 2023-10-31

Abstract

An energy harvesting device is disclosed. The energy harvesting device includes a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The energy harvesting device further includes one or more wings positioned within the channel, wherein a leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented toward the inlet opening. The energy harvesting device further comprises a generator that converts movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy. The generator includes one or more vibrating members and an energy conversion device. The one or more vibration members are configured to exhibit pivotal movement and the one or more wings are configured to exhibit rotational movement. The wing may be an air wing or a hydrofoil. The energy harvesting device provides an alternative device for generating renewable energy with many advantages. The device harvests vibration energy, can be optimized to operate over a wide range of fluid flow parameters, has minimal negative impact on the environment, and is suitable for many locations and applications.

Description

Energy harvesting devices, systems, and methods of manufacture

The invention relates to an energy harvesting device, a system and a method of manufacture. In particular, the energy harvesting device is adapted to harvest energy from a fluid flow, such as wind, to produce a renewable energy source.

Background

Conventional horizontal axis wind turbines known in the art typically include three blades. Wind turbines convert the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical motion according to the aerodynamic lift principle. In operation, the blades rotate and drive a generator that converts mechanical motion into electrical energy.

Although wind turbines are widely used in the energy industry to provide a source of renewable energy, there are also a number of drawbacks. Wind turbines can only operate within a narrow window of wind speeds. For example, if the wind speed is too high, there is a risk of damaging the wind turbine. Conversely, if the wind speed is too low, there may not be sufficient aerodynamic lift to rotate the blades.

Commercial wind farms typically include large wind turbines with heights exceeding 100 m. While large wind turbines are more efficient than smaller scale miniature wind turbines, large wind turbines often dominate the surrounding landscape and have a negative aesthetic impact on the environment. There are further negative environmental consequences as the wind turbine may affect the surrounding wild animals. For example, blades of wind turbines kill birds.

Furthermore, such large wind turbines are not suitable for positioning in urban landscapes, beside highways, in particular in the vicinity of airports, because they tend to generate significant turbulence in the wake of the blades.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of an aspect of the present invention to provide an energy harvesting device which obviates or at least mitigates one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages of energy harvesting devices known in the art.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy harvesting device comprising:

a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

one or more wings located within the channel, wherein a leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented toward the inlet opening; and

a generator for converting movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy.

Preferably, the inlet opening is located on a first surface of the energy harvesting device and the outlet opening is located on a second surface of the energy harvesting device.

Preferably, the second surface is substantially opposite to the first surface. Alternatively, the second surface is substantially tangential to the first surface.

Alternatively, the inlet opening is located in a first region of the first surface and the outlet opening is located in a second region of the first surface.

Most preferably, the one or more wings comprise a thickness variation in the span direction of the one or more wings. The one or more wings may include a positive arc-shaped cross section and a negative arc-shaped cross section. One or more of the wings generate counter-interacting lift and drag forces, thereby causing vibrations, more particularly, flutter vibrations.

Preferably, the one or more wings comprise a thickness variation in the chord direction of the one or more wings.

Optionally, the one or more wings comprise one or more weights. The one or more weights are uniformly or non-uniformly distributed within the internal structure of the one or more wings.

Preferably, the energy harvesting device further comprises a generator housing. The generator housing may include a tapered portion protruding from the first surface.

Optionally, the tapered portion includes one or more fins. The fins may include discontinuous apices. The fins induce turbulent fluid flow.

Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises one or more flaps. One or more flaps are located at the inlet opening of the channel and/or at the trailing edge of the wing. The flap induces turbulent fluid flow.

Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises a mesh spanning the inlet opening and/or the outlet opening. The mesh causes turbulent fluid flow and/or acts as a barrier, e.g. protecting the wings.

Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises a flow restrictor. A flow restrictor is located within the passage. The flow restrictor narrows or widens the channel. The flow restrictor induces turbulent fluid flow.

Most preferably, the generator comprises one or more vibration devices and one or more energy conversion devices.

Preferably, the one or more vibration devices comprise one or more vibration polymers (vibration polymers). Each of the one or more vibrating polymers comprises at least two focusing members, each of the at least two focusing members having a first end for attachment to the wing and a second end, wherein the at least two focusing members are arranged such that a spacing between the focusing members decreases from the first end towards the second end.

Optionally, each of the one or more vibrating polymers comprises a plurality of focusing members, wherein two or more wings may be attached to each of the one or more vibrating polymers.

Preferably, the first ends of the at least two focusing members are attached to the inner structure of the wing. Alternatively, the first ends of the at least two focusing members are attached to the surface of the wing, more specifically to the first side of the wing.

Preferably, at least two focusing members merge toward the second end of the vibrating polymer. The at least two focusing members may be combined before or after passing through the generator housing.

Preferably, at least two focusing members pass through the generator housing by means of bearings.

Most preferably, the energy conversion device is located at the second end of the vibrating polymeric member.

Preferably, the energy transforming device is a magnet and a coil.

Optionally, the energy conversion device further comprises a rotor and an elastic coil connector.

Alternatively, the energy conversion device is a piezoelectric crystal.

Most preferably, the energy harvesting device further comprises two or more channels, each of the two or more channels having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. Preferably, each of the two or more channels comprises one or more wings located within the channel, wherein the leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented towards the inlet opening. Optionally, the energy harvesting device comprises at most eighteen channels.

Preferably, two or more channels are positioned around the generator housing.

Optionally, the two or more channels form one or more branching members for the generator housing.

Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises a lens (lens). The lens is adapted to focus solar radiation and cause convective air flow.

Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises a layer of sound insulating material.

Alternatively, the one or more vibration devices include one or more vibration members. Each vibrating member includes a first end for attachment to the wing and a second end located at the energy conversion device.

Preferably, the vibrating member is configured to pivot about a bearing located between the first and second ends of the vibrating member. Preferably, the vibrating member may pivot between 1 ° and 89 ° on either side of the central pivot position. Preferably, the vibrating member may pivot between 1 ° and 30 ° on either side of the central pivot position. Most preferably, the vibrating member may pivot between 1 ° and 15 ° on either side of the central pivot position.

Preferably, in operation, the fluid flow around the wing generates a lift force that causes a pivoting motion of the vibrating member.

Preferably, the first pivot stopper and the second pivot stopper restrict the pivotal movement of the vibration member.

Preferably, each wing is configured to rotate about an axis of the vibration member. The wings may be rotated between 1 deg. and 89 deg. on either side of the central rotational position. Most preferably, the wing member may be rotated between 1 ° and 35 ° on either side of the central rotational position.

Preferably, in operation, the weight and/or inertia of the wing generates a rotational force that causes rotational movement of the wing. This rotational movement changes the angle of attack of the wing, more specifically reverses the angle of attack of the wing.

Preferably, the first and second rotational stops limit rotational movement of the wing.

Optionally, the bearing comprises a pitch control mechanism configured to rotate the vibrating member and the wing attached to the vibrating member about an axis of the vibrating member. The pitch control mechanism includes a servo motor and a power transmission system connecting the servo motor to the vibrating member.

Preferably, the energy transforming device at the second end of the vibrating member exhibits only a pivoting movement and not a rotating movement. The rotational movement is isolated from the combination of the vibrating member and the wing.

Preferably, the pivoting movement drives the energy conversion device and the rotational movement assists the pivoting movement.

Preferably, the energy conversion device comprises a rack gear located at the second end of the vibrating member. The rack is oriented and positioned to engage the pinion. The pinion is connected to the electrical generator directly or indirectly through a shaft. In operation, pivotal movement displaces the rack, which rotates the pinion, thereby driving the electrical generator.

Optionally, the energy conversion device comprises a clutch mechanism configured to convert the oscillating rotational movement into a unidirectional rotational movement.

Preferably, the energy harvesting device is a wind energy harvesting device. The fluid flow is wind. The one or more wings include one or more air wings.

Additionally or alternatively, the energy harvesting device is a water flow energy harvesting device. The fluid flow is a water flow. The one or more wings include one or more hydrofoils.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy harvesting system comprising two or more energy harvesting devices according to the first aspect of the present invention.

Preferably, two or more energy harvesting devices are stacked side by side and/or on top of each other.

Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may include features that implement the preferred or optional features of the first aspect of the invention, and vice versa.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device, comprising:

providing a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

providing one or more wings located within the channel, wherein a leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented toward the inlet opening; and is also provided with

A generator is provided to convert movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy.

Most preferably, the method of manufacturing a wind energy harvesting apparatus further comprises characterizing the air flow.

Preferably, characterizing the fluid flow includes characterizing average fluid flow velocity, fluid flow velocity distribution, turbulence, fluid flow shear profile, fluid flow direction distribution, and long term fluid flow variation over time.

Most preferably, the method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device further comprises determining optimal parameters of a fluid energy harvesting device for use with the fluid flow.

Preferably, determining the optimal parameters of the energy harvesting device comprises determining: the size of the fluid energy harvesting device; the size and shape of the channels, the shape and configuration of the wings; the size, shape, material composition, orientation and arrangement of the vibrating device; the relative position of two or more wings within the channel; arrangement and configuration of fins, flaps, nets and flow restrictors; and the arrangement and configuration of the generators.

Embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention may include features which implement preferred or optional features of the first and/or second aspects of the present invention, and vice versa.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, a wing is provided, the wing comprising a thickness variation in the chord direction and/or span direction.

Preferably, the wing comprises a positive arc-shaped cross section and a negative arc-shaped cross section.

The wings generate counter-interacting lift and drag forces, thereby causing vibrations, more specifically, flutter vibrations.

Embodiments of the fourth aspect of the present invention may include features which implement the preferred or optional features of the first, second and/or third aspects of the present invention, and vice versa.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an energy harvesting device comprising:

a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

a generator comprising one or more vibrating polymeric members and energy conversion means, the generator being adapted to convert movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy,

wherein the one or more vibration polymers focus vibrations from the movement of the one or more wings to the energy conversion device.

Embodiments of the fifth aspect of the present invention may include features to implement preferred or optional features of the first, second, third and/or fourth aspects of the present invention, and vice versa.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device, comprising:

providing a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

providing one or more wings located within the channel, wherein a leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented toward the inlet opening; and

a generator is provided, the generator comprising one or more vibrating polymeric members and energy transforming means, the generator being arranged to transform the movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy,

Embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention may include features which implement preferred or optional features of the first, second, third, fourth and/or fifth aspects of the present invention, and vice versa.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an energy harvesting device comprising:

a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

a generator comprising one or more vibrating members and energy transforming means, the generator being adapted to transform the movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy,

wherein the one or more vibration members are configured to exhibit a pivoting motion, the pivoting motion driving the energy conversion device, and the one or more wings are configured to exhibit a rotational motion, the rotational motion assisting the pivoting motion.

Embodiments of the seventh aspect of the present invention may include features implementing preferred or optional features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and/or sixth aspects of the present invention, and vice versa.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device, comprising:

providing a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

A generator is provided, the generator comprising one or more vibrating members and energy transforming means, the generator being arranged to transform the movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy,

Embodiments of the eighth aspect of the present invention may include features to implement preferred or optional features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and/or seventh aspects of the present invention, and vice versa.

Drawings

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an energy harvesting device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a channel of an alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a wing of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the wing of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of (a) a positively curved airfoil cross-section and (b) a negatively curved airfoil cross-section of the airfoil of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the wing of FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the wing of FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the generator of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an energy harvesting system including the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of yet another alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of the wing and vibrating member of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 17 in (a) a first position, (b) a second position, (c) a third position, and (d) a fourth position;

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of an energy conversion device of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 shows three perspective views (a), (b) and (c) of an alternative energy conversion device to the energy harvesting device of FIG. 17;

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a gear mechanism of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 17;

FIG. 22 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of FIG. 1; and

fig. 23 shows a flow chart of a method of manufacturing the energy harvesting device of fig. 1.

In the following description, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals. The figures are not necessarily to scale and the proportions of certain portions have been exaggerated to better illustrate details and features of embodiments of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Description of The Preferred Embodiment

An explanation of the present invention will now be described with reference to fig. 1 to 23.

Energy harvesting device

Fig. 1 and 2 depict an energy harvesting device 1a. More specifically, the energy harvesting device 1a is adapted to harvest energy from a fluid flow, such as wind, tidal flow or even a river. The energy harvesting device 1a comprises a first surface 2a and an opposite second surface 3a. Both the first surface 2a and the second surface 3a are perpendicular to the central axis 4 and centered on the central axis 4.

Generator casing

The energy harvesting device 1a further comprises a generator housing 5a, the generator housing 5a being centred on the central axis 4. The generator housing 5a comprises an inner portion 6 and a conical portion 7, as can be seen clearly in fig. 3. The inner portion 6 of the generator housing 5 extends between the first surface 2a and the second surface 3a and has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. It will be appreciated that the inner portion 6 of the generator housing 5 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape that may vary between the first surface 2a and the second surface 3 a. The conical portion 7 of the generator housing 5a is a continuation of the inner portion 6, the conical portion 7 protruding from the first surface 2a and tapering towards the central axis 4.

Channel

The energy harvesting device 1a further comprises a channel 8a, the channel 8a being positioned circumferentially around the generator housing 5a, as is clearly shown by fig. 1 and 2. The channel 8a takes the form of a passage between the first surface 2a and the second surface 3a, adapted to guide a fluid flow 9 through the energy collecting device 1a. It should be understood that the fluid stream 9 may take the form of a gas stream or a liquid stream.

The conical portion 7 of the generator housing 5a diverts the fluid flow 9 towards the channel 8a. It has been found that for efficient operation of the energy harvesting device 1a as depicted in fig. 1 and 2, it is preferable to include no more than eighteen channels 8a positioned around the generator housing 5 a.

Each channel 8a comprises an inlet opening 10 on the first surface 2a and a corresponding outlet opening 11 on the second surface 3 a. As can be seen in fig. 1 and 2, the channel 8 comprises a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape. The channel 8a is oriented such that the half-long axis of the oval cross-sectional shape extends radially from the central axis 4. It will be appreciated that the channel 8a may have any suitable cross-sectional shape.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, each channel 8a has a different relative size depending on the position of the channel 8a on the first surface 2 a. Alternatively, it should be appreciated that each channel 8a may be all uniform in size.

Fig. 2 and 3 show that the cross-sectional shape of the channel 8a changes in the direction of the central axis 4. In other words, the cross-sectional shape changes between the first surface 2a and the second surface 3 a. This variation in the cross-sectional shape of the channel 8a may be configured to improve the velocity of the fluid flow 9 through the energy harvesting device 1 a. Alternatively, the channel 8a may comprise a uniform cross-sectional shape.

Fig. 1 and 3 show that the channel 8a comprises an optional outer portion 12 protruding from the second surface 3. The outer portion 12 is configured to divert the fluid flow 9 exiting the energy harvesting device 1a from the outlet opening 11.

Wing

The energy harvesting device 1a further comprises one or more wings 13, the wings 13 being located within each channel 8a, as shown in figures 3 and 4. More specifically, depending on whether the fluid flow 9 is a gas flow or a liquid flow, the one or more wings 13 take the form of one or more air wings or one or more hydrofoils.

Fig. 5 depicts the wing 13 and defines a number of terms for describing the shape of the wing 13. The airfoil 13 includes a leading edge 14 and a trailing edge 15. The leading edge 14, or the foremost edge, is the first airfoil surface that meets the incident fluid flow 9. Thus, the leading edge 14 separates the incident fluid flow 9. The trailing edge 15, or the last edge, is where the fluid streams 9 separated by the leading edge 14 meet.

The wing 13 further comprises a chord 16 and a span 17. Chord 16 is the distance between leading edge 14 and trailing edge 15. And span 17 is the distance between the first side 18 and the second side 19 of the wing 13. In addition, the chord line 20 is defined as an imaginary straight line connecting the leading edge 14 and the trailing edge 15.

The wing 13 further comprises an upper surface 21 and a lower surface 22. The relative curvature of the upper surface 19 and the lower surface 21 is parameterized by an arcuate line 23, the arcuate line 23 being an equidistant line between the upper surface 19 and the lower surface 21 extending across the chord direction of the wing 13. The wings 13 have a uniform cross section across the span 17.

Fig. 3 depicts the wing 13 mounted within the channel 8 a. The wings 13 are oriented such that the leading edge 14 is positioned towards the inlet opening 10 and the trailing edge 15 is positioned towards the outlet opening 11. In other words, the chord direction of the wing 13 is substantially parallel to the central axis 4.

In operation, a fluid flow enters the channel 13 through the inlet opening 10, flows past the wings 13, causes aerodynamic or hydrodynamic forces, and then exits the channel 13 through the outlet opening 11. The wings 13 exhibit movement, vibrations and/or in particular flutter vibrations, and it is the kinetic energy from these vibrations that is captured, focused, transmitted, converged and/or converted into electrical energy by the energy harvesting device 1 a.

When aerodynamic or hydrodynamic forces deflect the wing 13, the restoring force acts to return the wing 13 to its original shape due to the elasticity of the wing 13 structure. Flutter is a dynamic instability caused by positive feedback between the hydrodynamic force and the restoring force of the wings 13. While the wings 13 known in the art are generally designed to avoid flutter, these vibrations are desirable in the energy harvesting apparatus 1a because they are mechanical vibrational energy that the present invention converts into useful electrical energy.

Although the wings 13 of fig. 5 are capable of exhibiting vibratory vibrations, these vibratory vibrations may be, and preferably are, enhanced by:

a) Modifying the shape and configuration of the wings 13 to induce and/or enhance lift of the reverse interaction; and/or

b) The fluid flow 9 is adjusted to, for example, cause turbulent fluid flow 24.

(a) Improved wing

Fig. 6 depicts a modified wing 25a, the modified wing 25a comprising a thickness variation in the span direction. The modified wing 25a includes a positive arc-shaped cross section 26 and a negative arc-shaped cross section 27. The positive arc-shaped cross section 26 generates a lifting force 28 and is defined by an arc-shaped line 23 located between the upper surface 21 and the chord line 20, as depicted in fig. 7 a. The negative arcuate cross section 27 generates a drag force 29 and is defined by an arcuate line 23 located between the lower surface 22 and the chord line 20, as can be seen in fig. 7 b. The improved wing 25a exhibits a counter-interacting lifting force 28 and drag force 29, causing vibrations and/or especially flutter vibrations. The modified wing 25a of fig. 6 exhibits vibration about an axis parallel to the chord direction.

Additionally or alternatively, the modified wing 25a may also include a weight 30 to induce and/or enhance vibration. The modified wing 25a is hollow and includes an internal structure 31. The weights 30 depicted in fig. 6 are unevenly distributed across the chord and span directions within the inner structure 31 of the wing 25 a.

Fig. 8 depicts an alternative modified wing 25b, the modified wing 25b comprising a thickness variation in the chord direction. This produces a lifting force 28 and a drag force 29 in the chordwise direction across the wing 25b, causing vibrations about an axis parallel to the spanwise direction.

Fig. 9 depicts another alternative modified wing 25c, the modified wing 25c including thickness variations in the span-wise and chord-wise directions, producing a combination of vibrations about an axis parallel to the chord-wise and span-wise directions.

(b) Regulating fluid flow

Additionally or alternatively, the energy harvesting device 1 comprises fins 32, as depicted in fig. 3, the fins 32 protruding from the conical portion 7 of the generator housing 5 a. The fins 32 comprise discontinuous peaks 33, the discontinuous peaks 33 disrupting the smooth laminar flow of the incident fluid flow 9 and creating turbulent fluid flow 24.

As a further additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting device 1a includes a flap 34. As depicted in fig. 3, the flap 34 is located at the inlet opening 10 of the channel 8 a; and/or as depicted in fig. 4, the flap 34 is located at the trailing edge of the wing 13. The flap 34 pivots to divert the fluid flow 9 and disrupt the fluid flow 9, thereby creating turbulent fluid flow 24.

As a further additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting apparatus 1a comprises a mesh 35, the mesh 35 spanning the inlet opening 10 of the channel 8a, as depicted in fig. 4. The mesh 35 is uniform, but it should be understood that the mesh 35 may be non-uniform. The fluid flow 9 entering the inlet opening 10 of the channel 8a passes through the mesh 35. The mesh 35 disrupts the fluid flow 9 to create turbulent fluid flow 24. The net 35 has a dual function in that it also serves as a barrier protecting the internal components of the energy harvesting device 1 a. It will thus be appreciated that the energy harvesting device 1a may also comprise a mesh spanning the outlet opening 11 of the channel 8 a.

Additionally or alternatively, the energy harvesting device 1a includes a flow restrictor 36, the flow restrictor 36 being located within the channel 8a to narrow (or widen) the cross-sectional shape of the passageway, as depicted in fig. 4. The flow restrictor 36 acts as a bottleneck to increase the velocity of the fluid flow 9. The flow restrictor 36 disrupts the fluid flow 9 to create turbulent fluid flow 24.

Generator and vibration device

The energy harvesting device 1a further comprises a generator 37, the generator 37 being adapted to convert the movement, in other words vibration, of the one or more wings 13, 25 into electrical energy.

The generator 37 comprises one or more vibration devices in the form of one or more vibrating polymeric members 38 and an energy conversion device 39. Each vibration polymer 38 captures, transmits, focuses and/or focuses vibrations from one or more of the wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25c towards an energy conversion device 39 located within the generator housing 5. The vibration polymer 38 has a dual purpose in that it is also a means for mounting each wing 13, 25a, 25b, 25c in a plurality of channels 8.

The vibrating polymeric member 38 may be of the type described in applicant's co-pending uk patent publication No. GB2586067 and uk patent application No. GB 2008912.4. As depicted in fig. 3 and 4, the vibration polymer 38 includes at least two focusing members 40. Each focusing member 40 of the at least two focusing members 40 has a first end 41 and a second end 42, the first end 41 being for attachment to a vibration source, in this example to a wing 13, 25a, 25b, 25c. The at least two focusing members 40 are arranged such that the spacing between the focusing members 40 decreases from the first end 41 towards the second end 42.

As can be seen in fig. 3 and 4, the first end 41 of each focusing member 40 extends within the wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25c and is attached to the inner structure 31. Additionally or alternatively, the first end 41 of each focusing member 40 may be attached to a surface 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22, such as the first side 18, of the wing 13, 25a, 25b, 25 c.

The focusing member 40 depicted in fig. 3 and 4 extends from the first side 18 of the wing 13, 25a, 25b, 25c towards the central axis. Therefore, the wing 25a having a thickness variation in the span direction will cause an oscillating displacement, i.e., a linear vibration, in the focusing member 40. Conversely, a wing 25a having a thickness variation in the chord direction will cause an oscillating torsional movement in the focusing member 40. Furthermore, wings 25c with thickness variations in both the chordwise and spanwise directions will cause a combined oscillating displacement and oscillating torsion movement. The movement exhibited by the focusing member 40 depends on the attachment position of the focusing member 40 and the shape and structure of the wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25 c.

Fig. 3 and 4 show that the focusing member 40 merges toward the second end 42, passes through the generator housing 5a and extends within the generator housing 5a toward the central axis 4. Alternatively, the focusing member 40 may pass through the generator housing 5a and then be combined. The focusing member 40 passes through the generator housing 5a by means of a bearing 43, the bearing 43 facilitating the movement of the focusing member 40 within the generator housing 5 with respect to the wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25 c. The type of bearing 43 will depend on the type of movement exhibited by the focusing member 40, such as oscillating displacement and/or oscillating torsion.

The wings 9, 25a, 25b, 25c are designed to oscillate and vibrate at a relatively low frequency between 10Hz and 50Hz and at a relatively high amplitude between 10mm and 25mm, corresponding to the displacement of the second end of the focusing member. Alternatively, the wing may vibrate at a medium frequency exceeding 50Hz and at a similarly relatively high amplitude (10 mm to 25 mm).

The energy conversion device 39 is located at the second end 42 of the vibrating polymeric member 38 within the generator housing 5 a. As depicted in fig. 3 and 10, the energy conversion device 39 takes the form of a magnet 44 attached to the second end 42 of the focusing member 40, and a coil 45 is positioned around the magnet 44. The energy transforming device 39 operates according to the magnetic induction principle, wherein the movement of the magnet 44 relative to the coil 45 generates a varying magnetic flux, thereby generating an electric current in the coil 45. As can be clearly seen in fig. 10, there are multiple sets of magnets 44 and coils 45 positioned about the central axis 4, wherein each set of magnets 44 and coils 45 independently generate electricity.

Additionally or alternatively, the energy conversion device 39 may take the form of a piezoelectric crystal.

Energy harvesting system

Fig. 11 shows an energy harvesting system 46, the energy harvesting system 46 comprising an array of energy harvesting devices 1 stacked side by side and on top of each other. Thus, the energy harvesting system 46 may take the form of a wall, fence, panel for a structure or building, or even a component within a structure. The energy collection system 46 may be positioned in the region of high fluid flow 9, particularly in the region of high turbulent fluid flow 24.

As an example, for a wind energy collecting device 1 where the fluid of the fluid flow 9 is air, a highly turbulent air flow may be found on highways, airports or even in the vicinity of high-rise buildings.

As another example, for a liquid flow energy harvesting device 1 where the fluid of the fluid flow 9 is liquid flow such as water, a highly turbulent water flow may be found in a tidal barrier, tidal estuary, dam, river flood control facility, bridge support or even in a water transport pipeline. It will be appreciated that the liquid flow energy harvesting device 1 will be submerged under water.

Alternative energy collection device

Fig. 12 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device 1b, which may include the same preferred and optional features as the energy harvesting device 1a depicted in fig. 1-11.

The energy harvesting device 1b of fig. 12 comprises a channel 8b, the channel 8b connecting the first surface 2b with a tangential third surface 47b of the energy harvesting device 1 b. The third surface 47b is substantially parallel to the central axis 4 and connects the first surface 2b and the second surface 3b. The channel 8b comprises a bend 48, which bend 48 diverts the fluid flow 9, which is originally parallel to the central axis 4, in a tangential direction of the central axis 4. It should be appreciated that the energy harvesting device 1b may comprise: a channel 8a connecting the first surface 2a and the second surface 3a, as depicted in fig. 1 and 2; and a channel 8b connecting the first surface 2b and the third surface 47b, as depicted in fig. 12. As an example, when the energy collecting device 1b takes the form of a plate on the side of the building, the channel 8b diverts the wind incident on the building while also collecting energy. As another example, when the energy collecting device 1b takes the form of a plate on a sea wall, the channel 8b diverts the sea water incident on the sea wall while also collecting energy.

Additionally or alternatively, as depicted in fig. 12, the energy harvesting device 1b further comprises a layer of sound insulating material 49, the layer of sound insulating material 49 being attached to the second surface 3b of the energy harvesting device 1 b. When the energy harvesting device 1b takes the form of a panel suitable for use on a high-rise building and the panel generates electricity, the sound insulation material 49 will provide sound insulation to the building. The sound insulating material 49 is particularly suitable for the embodiment of fig. 12, because the channel 8b turns away from the second surface 3b. While the channels 8a of the energy harvesting device 1a depicted in fig. 1 will pass through the additional layer of sound insulating material 49.

Fig. 13 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device 1c, which may include the same preferred and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, 1b depicted in fig. 1-12.

The energy harvesting device 1c of fig. 13 may comprise a lens 50 for focusing solar radiation 51. This feature is particularly suitable for wind energy harvesting devices, in other words devices that are not submerged under water. The lens 50 may take the form of a conventional optical lens. The lens 50 is attached to the energy collecting device 1c by means of a mounting bracket 52 and is oriented to focus solar radiation 51 in the area of the outlet opening 11 of the channel 8 c. Thus, the fluid at the outlet opening 11 is hotter than the fluid at the inlet opening 10. In other words, the lens 50 creates a thermal gradient between the inlet opening 10 and the outlet opening 11 of the channel 8 c. This thermal gradient causes convective fluid flow, increasing the velocity and kinetic energy of the fluid flow through channel 8 c. The plurality of wings 13 located within the channel 8c may exhibit, for example, higher amplitude vibrations, and such increased vibration energy may also be captured, transmitted, focused, and/or converted into electrical energy by the energy harvesting device 1 c. The lens 50 enhances the output of the energy harvesting apparatus 1c because the amount of electricity generated is increased. It should be appreciated that the energy harvesting device 1c may comprise a plurality of lenses 50, all lenses 50 being oriented towards the outlet opening 11 of the channel 8 c.

Fig. 14 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device 1d, which may include the same preferred and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, 1b, 1c depicted in fig. 1-13.

As another additional or alternative feature, the energy conversion device 39 may include a rotor 53, or more specifically a gyratory rotor, the rotor 53 being connected between the second ends 42 of the two focusing members 40 of the two vibrating polymeric members 38 by an elastic coil connector 54, see fig. 14. Each vibration polymer 38 is attached to a wing 13. The oscillating movement of the second ends 42 of the two focusing members 40 stretches and compresses the elastic coil connectors 54, which causes the rotor 53 to rotate. This rotational movement is converted into electrical energy by the magnet and coil arrangement. The rotor can rotate clockwise and counterclockwise, and thus a pole inversion generator is required so that electricity can be generated regardless of the rotation direction. Additionally or alternatively, a gear system (not shown) may be attached to the rotor 53, which rotates a secondary wheel or shaft. Regardless of the orientation of the rotor 53, the gear system rotates the secondary wheel or shaft.

Fig. 15 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device 1e, which may include the same preferred and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d depicted in fig. 1-14.

Fig. 15 depicts a cylindrical energy harvesting apparatus 1e comprising a curved surface 55. In this embodiment, the channel 8e connects the first region 56 of the curved surface 55 to the second region 57 of the curved surface 55. As can be seen in fig. 15, the channels 8e have different orientations such that the channels 8e connect different areas of the curved surface 55, respectively. Thus, the energy harvesting device 1e may advantageously interact with fluid streams 9 from different directions.

Fig. 16 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device 1f, which may include the same preferred and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e depicted in fig. 1-15.

The energy harvesting device 1f of fig. 16 takes the form of a tree structure comprising branching members 58. Each of the branching members includes a first surface 59, a second surface 60, and a channel 8f connecting the first surface 59 and the second surface 60. Each branch member 58 is connected to a generator housing 5f, the generator housing 5f taking the form of a central column as depicted in fig. 16. Advantageously, the branching members 58 may each have a different orientation, so that the energy collection device 1e may also interact with fluid flows 9 from different directions.

Fig. 17-21 depict alternative energy harvesting devices 1g that may include the same preferred and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f depicted in fig. 1-16.

As can be seen in fig. 17, the energy harvesting device 1g has a substantially uniform hexagonal prism shape. The opposite first surface 2g and second surface 3g of the energy harvesting device 1g take the form of two hexagonal base surfaces of a hexagonal prism. As in the previous embodiments, the first surface 2g and the second surface 3g are perpendicular to the central axis 4g and centered on the central axis 4 g.

The generator housing 5g depicted in fig. 17 comprises a substantially hexagonal cross-sectional shape instead of the substantially circular cross-sectional shape previously described in the context of fig. 1-3. Furthermore, the channel 8g depicted in fig. 17 comprises a substantially trapezoidal cross-sectional shape instead of the elliptical cross-sectional shape previously described in the context of fig. 1-3.

The main difference between the energy harvesting system of fig. 17 and the embodiments of fig. 1-16 is the configuration of the wings 13, 25 and the generator 37 g. More specifically, the vibration means of the generator 37g takes the form of a vibration member 61, instead of vibrating the polymer 38. The vibration member 61 includes a first end 62 and a second end 63. The first end 62 of the vibration member 61 is attached to the first side 18 of the wings 13, 25. The energy transforming device 39g is located at the second end 63 of the vibrating member 61. The vibration member 61 extends from the wing 13, through the generator housing 5a, and extends to the energy conversion device 39g within the generator housing 5 a. The vibrating member 61 passes through the generator housing 5a by means of a bearing 43g, the bearing 43g being located between the first end 62 and the second end 63 of the vibrating member 61.

Fig. 18 depicts the movements exhibited by the vibrating member 61 and wings 13, 25 of the energy harvesting apparatus 1g, particularly four-position movements. Fig. 18 defines an x-axis, a y-axis, and a z-axis to help describe this motion.

Fig. 18a depicts a first position 64 in which the vibrating structureThe piece 61 is angled at-alpha with respect to the central pivot location 65 of the vibrating member 61. In the context of fig. 18, the central pivot position 65 of the vibrating member 61 is defined when the vibrating member 61 is parallel to the z-axis. Further, in the first position 64, the wings 13, 25 are oriented such that the chord 16 of the wings 13, 25 is at an angle of- β with respect to the center rotational position 66 of the wings 13, 25. The central rotational position 66 of the wings 13, 25 is defined when the chord 16 of the wings 13, 25 is parallel to the direction of the fluid flow 9 in the y-direction. In operation, the fluid flow 9 in the y-direction is incident on the leading edges 14 of the wings 13, 25. The angles of attack of the wings 13, 25 generate lift in the positive x-direction (F _L ) Thereby causing pivotal movement of the vibration member 61 about the bearing 43 g. This pivotal movement is limited by the first pivot stop 67 such that the vibrating member 61 is stopped in the second position 68, in which second position 68 the vibrating member 61 is at an angle of +α with respect to the z-axis, as depicted in fig. 18 b.

When in the second position 68, the weight and/or inertia of the wings 13, 25 generates a rotational force (F _R ) The rotational force (F _R ) Causing a rotary movement of the wings 13, 25 about an axis 69 defined by the vibrating member 61 itself, the axis 69 extending between the first and second ends 62, 63. The rotation is limited by the first rotation stop 70. Rotation of the wings 13, 25 reverses the angle of attack of the wings 13, 25 such that the chord 16 of the wings 13, 25 is at an angle of +β with respect to the central rotational position 66, as shown in fig. 18c, which depicts the third position 71. It will be appreciated that the position of the axis 69 relative to the wings 13, 25, and in particular the position of the axis 69 along the chord 16 of the wings 13, 25, determines the relative ease with which the wings 13, 25 can be rotated. For example, the axis 69 may be offset closer to the leading edge 14 of the wing 13, 25 than to the trailing edge 15. Thus, the position of the axis 69 may be optimized to achieve the desired rotational characteristics of the wings 13, 25.

In the third position, the fluid flow 9 around the wings 13, 25 generates lift in the negative x-direction (F _L ) Thereby causing a relative counter-pivoting movement of the vibrating member 61 about the bearing 43 g. This counter-pivoting movement is limited by the second pivot stop 72 such that the vibrating member 61 stops in the fourth position 73, in which fourth position 73 the vibrating member 61 is at an angle- α with respect to the central pivot position 65, as depicted in fig. 18 d.

When in the fourth position 73, the weight and/or inertia of the wings 13, 25 again generates a rotational force (F _R ) The rotational force (F _R ) Causing a counter-rotational movement of the wings 13, 25 about the axis defined by the vibrating member 61. The rotation is limited by the second rotation stop 74. Thereafter, the chords 16 of the wings 13, 25 are rotated at an angle of- β relative to the central rotational position 66, returning the arrangement to the first position 64, as depicted in fig. 18 a. The pivoting and rotating cycle repeats.

The first pivot stopper 67 and the second pivot stopper 72, as can be clearly seen in fig. 19, limit the pivot range of the vibration member 61. The positions of the first pivot stopper 67 and the second pivot stopper 72 can be adjusted according to a desired pivot range. The vibrating member 61 may pivot between 1 deg. and 89 deg. on either side of the central pivot position 65. Preferably, the vibrating member 61 pivots between 1 ° and 30 ° on either side of the central pivot position 65. Preferably, the vibrating member 61 pivots between 1 ° and 15 ° on either side of the central pivot position 65.

Similarly, the first rotation stopper 70 and the second rotation stopper 74, as depicted in fig. 19, restrict rotation of the vibration member 61 and the wings 13, 25. The positions of the first rotation stop 70 and the second rotation stop 74 may be adjusted according to a desired rotation range, in other words according to a desired angle of attack of the wings 13, 25. The vibrating member 61 and wings 13, 25 may be rotated between 1 deg. and 89 deg. on either side of the central rotational position 66. Preferably, the combination of the vibrating member 61 and the wings 13, 25 is rotated between 1 ° and 35 ° on either side of the central rotational position 66.

The energy conversion device 39g located at the second end 63 of the vibration member 61 exhibits only a pivoting movement and not a rotating movement. The rotational movement is isolated from the vibration member 61 and the wings 13, 25. Thus, the pivoting movement drives the energy transforming device 39g, while the rotating movement continues and/or assists the pivoting movement.

Fig. 19 depicts an energy conversion device 39g located at the second end 63 of the vibrating member 61. The second end 63 of the vibration member 61 includes a curved rack 75, in other words, a toothed track. The rack 75 is oriented and positioned to engage a pinion 76, the pinion 76 also being referred to as a cogwheel or gear. Pinion 76 is connected to shaft 77, which shaft 77 is in turn connected to an electrical generator 78. In operation, pivotal movement of the vibration member 61 periodically displaces the rack gear 75 in the x-direction, thereby rotating the pinion gear 76. Pinion 76 rotates shaft 77, and shaft 77 drives electrical generator 78 to generate electricity. It should be appreciated that shaft 77 is not required as pinion 76 may be directly connected to an electrical generator. It should also be appreciated that alternative transmission systems are contemplated to transmit the pivotal movement of the vibrating member to the electrical generator.

As can be seen in fig. 19, the bearing 43g, alternatively referred to as a bearing assembly, comprises a bearing shaft 79 and a bearing housing 81 attached to the bearing shaft 79, the bearing shaft 79 being mounted in the x-y plane through a cavity 80 in the generator housing 5a. The vibration member 61 passes through the generator housing 5a by passing through the bearing housing 81 in an orientation substantially perpendicular to the bearing shaft 79. The movement of the vibration member 61 is restricted by the bearing 43 g. The vibration member 61 may pivot about the bearing shaft 79, and the vibration member 61 may also rotate about an axis 69 defined by the vibration member 61 itself.

Fig. 20 depicts alternative bearings 43h, 43i, 43j, each comprising a bearing shaft 79 mounted by two brackets 82 and a bearing housing 81 attached to the bearing shaft 79. These alternative bearings 43h, 43i, 43j illustrate an alternative transmission system for transmitting the pivoting motion of the vibrating member to the electrical generator 78.

More specifically, fig. 20a depicts an alternative curved rack 75h at the second end 63 of the vibrating member 61, in other words, a toothed component. Fig. 20b depicts the curved rack 75i attached to the bearing shaft 79, rather than to the second end 63 of the vibration member 61. Similarly, fig. 20c depicts a gear 76 attached to a bearing shaft 79.

Additionally or alternatively, the bearings 43h, 43i, 43j depicted in fig. 20a, 20b and 20c, respectively, include a pitch control mechanism 83 located on the bearing housing 81. Pitch control mechanism 83 includes a servo motor 84 and a drivetrain 85, drivetrain 85 connecting servo motor 84 to vibration member 61. The drivetrain 85 may take the form of gears and a belt or chain. The pitch control mechanism 84 is capable of rotating the vibration member 61 and the wings 13, 25 connected to the first end 62 of the vibration member 61 about the axis 69 of the vibration member 61. In other words, pitch control mechanism 84 controls the pitch of wings 13, 25 connected to first end 62 of vibration member 61. Alternatively or in addition to the first rotation stop 70 and the second rotation stop 74, the rotation of the vibration member 61 may be limited by a pitch control mechanism 84. As an additional function, pitch control mechanism 84 may optimize the position of wings 13, 25, for example, by dynamically adjusting the pitch based on the speed and/or direction of fluid flow 9, 24. It should be appreciated that pitch control mechanism 84 may be integrated within bearing housing 81.

Additionally or alternatively, the rotational position of the vibration member 61 is biased away from the central rotational position 66 by a cam and/or pitch control mechanism. Advantageously, this will ensure that the chords 16 of the wings 13, 25 are never parallel to the direction of the fluid flow 9. The wings 13, 25 will therefore be biased towards the angle of attack that generates the aerodynamic force.

The servo motor 84 may be connected to sensors and control systems. The sensor may thus be used to measure the speed and direction of the fluid flow 9 at the inlet opening 10, and then the control system acts to adjust the orientation of the wings 13, 25 to optimize their pitch angle.

As shown in fig. 18, the linear or pivotal movement of the wings 13, 25 is translated into rotational movement of the pinion 76, the pinion 76 driving the electrical generator 78, as shown in fig. 19. This rotational movement exhibited by the pinion 76 is oscillatory in that it alternates between clockwise and counterclockwise rotation. As a further additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting device 1, in particular the energy transforming device 39, further comprises a clutch mechanism 86, as depicted in fig. 21, the clutch mechanism 86 transforming this oscillating rotational movement into a unidirectional rotational movement.

The clutch mechanism 86 includes an oscillating input shaft 87 and a one-way output shaft 88. The oscillating input shaft 87 is driven by the oscillating pinion 76, and further includes a first sprag-type clutch bearing 89 having a clockwise driving direction and a second sprag-type clutch bearing 90 having a counterclockwise driving direction. The clockwise rotating first sprag clutch bearing 89 directly engages the counterclockwise rotating first spur gear 91 on the one-way output shaft 88. The counterclockwise rotating second sprag clutch bearing 90 is meshed with a counterclockwise rotating second spur gear 92 on the one-way output shaft 88 through a clockwise rotating intermediate gear 93.

In operation, clockwise rotation of the oscillating input shaft 87 is translated into counterclockwise rotation of the unidirectional output shaft 88 by the combination of the first sprag clutch bearing 89 and the first spur gear 91. The counterclockwise rotation of the oscillation input shaft 87 is converted into the counterclockwise rotation of the one-way output shaft 88 by the combination of the second sprag clutch bearing 90, the intermediate gear 93, and the first spur gear 92. In summary, both the clockwise rotation and the counterclockwise rotation of the oscillating input shaft 87 are translated into counterclockwise rotation of the unidirectional output shaft 88. The first sprag type clutch bearing 89 and the second sprag type clutch bearing 90 are free to rotate when not rotating in the respective driving directions.

Advantageously, the clutch mechanism 86 produces a unidirectional rotational motion, which widens the types of electrical generators 78 that can be used within the energy harvesting device 1.

Due to the nature of the pivoting motion, the rotational speed of the unidirectional output shaft 88 may not be uniform. More specifically, the rotation speed is faster when the vibration member 61 passes through the center pivot position 65, and is slower when it reaches the first pivot stopper 67 and the second pivot stopper 72. Additionally or alternatively, the pivoting motion may be modified to reduce variations in the rotational speed of the unidirectional output shaft 88, by using magnets to repel the vibrating member 61 and/or using springs to apply force to the vibrating member 61. In addition or alternatively, the variation in rotational speed can also be reduced by mechanically storing the rotational movement in a flywheel or spring mechanism and then releasing the stored energy at a constant rotational speed. In alternative embodiments, the plurality of wings 13, 25 may be connected to the clutch mechanism 86 or the spring mechanism without affecting its independent oscillating movement.

As another additional or alternative feature, the pivotal movement may be limited by a magnetic end stop, a spring, and/or a servo motor 84, rather than the mechanical first and second pivot stops 67, 72. Advantageously, minimizing impact by replacing the mechanical pivot stop with a magnetic pivot stop will reduce energy losses within the transmission system, thereby increasing the useful life of the component.

It will be appreciated that the above-described oscillation-to-rotation conversion mechanism of the wings 13, 25 shown in fig. 19 to 21 may be replaced by an oscillation-to-linear conversion mechanism, which may then be connected to a linear generator. Although rotary electric generators are easier to use, they generally exhibit higher mechanical losses than linear electric generators. Thus, embodiments based on an oscillation to linear conversion mechanism have been found to exhibit improved mechanical efficiency.

As can be seen in fig. 17, the energy harvesting device 1g comprises a plurality of wings 13, 25. More specifically, fig. 17 depicts two wings 13, 25 in each channel 8g of the six channels 8g of the energy collection device 1 g. It should be appreciated that each channel 8g may include more or fewer wings 13, 25, and that the energy harvesting device 1g may include more or fewer channels 8g. The generator 37g includes a plurality of vibration members 61 and an energy conversion device 39g. The single wing 13, 25 is attached to a single vibrating member 61, which vibrating member 61 is in turn connected to an energy transforming device 39g. The energy conversion device 39g may include a plurality of separate rack 75 and pinion 76 arrangements, with the plurality of separate rack 75 and pinion 76 arrangements attached to a plurality of separate electrical generators 78. Thus, each wing 13, 25 moves independently and generates electricity independently according to the movement depicted in fig. 18. It should also be appreciated that multiple vibrating members 61 may drive a central drive shaft connected to a single electrical generator 78 in addition or alternative configurations. In this embodiment, the transmission system is configured such that the conversion of motion is unidirectional. In other words, each of the air foils 13, 25 and the vibration member 61 may independently drive the central shaft.

The embodiment of fig. 17-21 converts the linear motion of the wings 13, 25 into a rotational motion that drives a conventional electrical generator 78. Advantageously, the energy harvesting device 1g of fig. 17-21 is simpler than the embodiment of fig. 1-16, because it includes an electrical generator 78, rather than a custom-made magnet 44 and coil 45 arrangement. Thus, the device is simpler and cheaper to manufacture and the device is more reliable.

Fig. 22 depicts an alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device 1 of fig. 1. Additionally or alternatively, the cross-sectional area of the channel 8 may decrease and then increase in the direction of the central axis 4 between the first surface 2 and the second surface 3. This constriction of the channel 8 increases the velocity of the fluid flow 9 in the narrowing region of the channel 8 where the one or more wings 13, 25 are located. Advantageously, the increase in the velocity of the fluid flow 9 enhances the forces caused by the one or more wings 13, 25.

Furthermore, according to the venturi effect, this constriction results in a decrease of the fluid pressure in the narrowed region of the channel 8. As another additional or alternative feature, the channel 8 may include one or more sidewall inlets 94 in the narrowed region of the channel 8 such that lower fluid pressures draw more fluid into the channel 8. This increases the captured energy and further improves the operation of the energy harvesting device 1.

Method for manufacturing an energy harvesting device

Fig. 23 shows a flow chart of a method of manufacturing the energy harvesting device 1. The method comprises the following steps: providing a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening (S1001); providing one or more wings located within the channel, wherein a leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented toward the inlet opening (S1002); and setting up a generator to convert movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy (S1003).

Furthermore, the method of manufacturing may optionally include characterizing the fluid flow 9, 24. For example, this may include characterizing: average fluid flow velocity, fluid flow velocity distribution, turbulence, fluid flow shear profile, fluid flow direction distribution, and fluid flow variation over time.

As a further complement, the manufacturing method may optionally comprise using the characteristics of the fluid flows 9, 24 to determine optimal parameters of the energy harvesting device 1. For example, the optimization process may include determining: the size of the energy harvesting device 1; the size and shape of the channel 8, the shape and configuration of the wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25 c; the size, shape, material composition, orientation and arrangement of the vibrating device; the relative position of two or more wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25c within the channel 8; an arrangement and configuration for adjusting characteristics of the fluid flow 9, such as an arrangement and configuration of fins 32, flaps 34, nets 35, and flow restrictors 36; and the arrangement and configuration of the generator 37. Optimizing the vibration device may include optimizing the vibrating aggregate 38 by matching the average resonant frequency within the operating range of the wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25 c.

The energy harvesting device 1 has a number of advantages. In one embodiment, the device may operate without aerodynamic or hydrodynamic lift moving wings. Instead, the energy harvesting devices 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f depicted in fig. 1-16 harvest vibrational energy induced within one or more of the wings 13, 25a, 25b, 25c, in particular flutter vibrations induced by counter-interacting lift forces.

Advantageously, the energy harvesting device 1 may be optimized to operate over a wide range of fluid flow parameters, such as fluid flow velocity, thereby reducing problematic intermittence associated with devices known in the art.

Another advantage is that the energy harvesting device 1 may be compact, modular and may form part of a larger system 46. The energy harvesting device 1 and system 46 may be integrated discretely into the environment in the form of a wall, but are also suitable for locations known in the art where the device is normally not considered, such as urban landscapes, highways, airports and even underwater locations. The energy harvesting device 1 is not limited to remote areas, i.e. areas that are generally considered to be natural beauty, and thus there is no reason for the negative public opinion.

Advantageously, the energy harvesting device 1 does not include relatively large moving external components that are capable of killing birds or fish depending on the location of the energy harvesting device 1. The moving parts of the energy harvesting device 1 are all internal and exhibit only small scale movements such as vibratory movements, pivoting movements and rotational movements. Furthermore, the energy harvesting device 1 comprises features, such as a net 35, that minimize the risk to wild animals, which features prevent birds or fish from entering the channel 8 through the inlet opening 10.

The energy harvesting device 1 may be optimized according to the characteristics of the fluid flow 9, making the device 1 suitable for a wide range of applications. The function of the energy harvesting device 1 may be maximized by incorporating additional features, such as sound insulation 49.

An energy harvesting device is disclosed. The energy harvesting device includes a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The energy harvesting device further includes one or more wings positioned within the channel, wherein a leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented toward the inlet opening. The energy harvesting device further comprises a generator that converts movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy. The generator includes one or more vibrating members and an energy conversion device. The one or more vibration members are configured to both exhibit pivotal movement and the one or more wings are configured to exhibit rotational movement. The wing may be an air wing or a hydrofoil. The energy harvesting device provides an alternative device for generating renewable energy with many advantages. The device collects vibration energy and can be optimized to operate over a wide range of fluid flow parameters with minimal negative environmental impact, suitable for many locations and applications.

Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Furthermore, the term "or" is to be interpreted as inclusive rather than exclusive, unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. The embodiments described were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Accordingly, further modifications or improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. An energy harvesting device, comprising:

a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

a generator comprising one or more vibrating members and energy conversion means for converting movement of the one or more wings into electrical energy,

wherein the one or more vibrating members are configured to exhibit a pivoting motion that drives the energy conversion device, and the one or more wings are configured to exhibit a rotational motion that assists the pivoting motion.

2. The energy harvesting device of claim 1, wherein each vibrating member includes a first end for attachment to the wing and a second end located at the energy conversion device.

3. The energy harvesting device of claim 2, wherein the vibrating member is configured to pivot about a bearing located between the first and second ends of the vibrating member.

4. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein each vibrating member pivots between 1 ° and 89 ° on either side of a central pivot position.

5. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein each vibrating member pivots between 1 ° and 30 ° on either side of the central pivot position, or each vibrating member pivots between 1 ° and 15 ° on either side of the central pivot position.

6. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein, in operation, fluid flow around the wing generates lift forces that cause the pivotal movement of the vibrating member.

7. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second pivot stops limit the pivotal movement of the vibrating member.

8. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein each wing is configured to rotate about an axis of the vibrating member.

9. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the wing rotates between 1 ° and 89 ° on either side of a central rotational position.

10. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the wing rotates between 1 ° and 35 ° on either side of a central rotational position.

11. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein, in operation, the weight and/or inertia of the wing generates a rotational force that causes rotational movement of the wing.

12. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, the rotational movement of the wing reversing an angle of attack of the wing.

13. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, the first and second rotational stops limiting the rotational movement of the wing.

14. The energy harvesting device of any of claims 3-13, wherein the bearing comprises a pitch control mechanism configured to rotate the vibration member and the wing attached to the vibration member about an axis of the vibration member.

15. The energy harvesting device of claim 14, wherein the pitch control mechanism comprises a servo motor and a drivetrain that connects the servo motor to the vibrating member.

16. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the energy conversion device located at the second end of the vibrating member exhibits only the pivoting motion and not the rotating motion.

17. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, the rotational movement isolated from a combination of the vibration member and the wing.

18. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the energy conversion device comprises a rack and a pinion, the rack being located at the second end of the vibrating member, wherein the rack is oriented and positioned to engage with the pinion.

19. The energy harvesting device of claim 18, the energy conversion device further comprising an electrical generator, wherein the pinion is directly or indirectly connected to the electrical generator through a shaft.

20. The energy harvesting device of claim 19, wherein in operation, the pivotal movement displaces the rack, the rack rotating the pinion to drive the electrical generator.

21. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the energy conversion device comprises a clutch mechanism configured to convert oscillating rotational motion into unidirectional rotational motion.

22. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the energy harvesting device further comprises two or more channels, each of the two or more channels having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, wherein each of the two or more channels comprises one or more wings located within the channel, wherein a leading edge of the one or more wings is oriented toward the inlet opening.

23. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more wings comprise one or more air wings.

24. The energy harvesting device of any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more wings comprise one or more hydrofoils.

25. An energy harvesting system comprising two or more energy harvesting devices according to any one of the preceding claims.

26. A method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device, comprising:

providing a channel having an inlet opening and an outlet opening;

A generator is provided, said generator comprising one or more vibrating members and energy transforming means, said generator being adapted to transform the movement of said one or more wings into electrical energy,

wherein the one or more vibration members are configured to exhibit a pivoting motion that drives the energy conversion device, and the one or more wings are configured to exhibit a rotational motion that assists the pivoting motion.

27. The method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device of claim 26, the method of manufacturing a wind energy harvesting device further comprising characterizing a fluid flow.

28. The method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device of claim 27, further comprising determining optimal parameters of the energy harvesting device for use with the fluid flow.