DE102010025070A1 - Hydraulic power device i.e. hydropower turbine for generating water in e.g. stationary hydroelectric power plant, has ventilation device designed such that gas is exhausted from chamber, and water is sent into chamber by suppression of gas - Google Patents

Abstract

The device (10) has an anchor device (50) designed such that the power device is held by the anchor device with respect to a flow direction of water against flowing water. A leveling chamber (60) is provided in a flow body (20), which comprises a ventilation device (70). The ventilation device is designed such that gas contained in the leveling chamber is exhausted from the leveling chamber, and water is penetrated into the leveling chamber by suppression of the gas so as to change lifting force of the power device. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a method for using a hydraulic power device in a water body (2) a hydraulic power system comprising a hydraulic power device.

Description

The invention relates to a hydropower device for use in the flowing water at or below the water surface of a body of water. In this case, this hydropower device is adapted to vary its own position with respect to the water surface of the water, so to level the hydropower device.

Hydropower devices for use in flowing water are known in principle. Such hydropower devices are, for example, hydropower turbines, as used in stationary hydroelectric power plants. There turbines are arranged directly in a streaming water or positioned in piping, through which flowing water is taken from the flowing water and the turbine is fed. A disadvantage of the known hydroelectric power plants is the very complex construction. Thus, the positioning of such hydroelectric power plants is not flexible changeable but limited due to the large construction measures on the construction site. For example, such hydroelectric power plants are located at reservoirs or in streams and produce stationary power. In addition to the lack of flexibility is another disadvantage that the positioning, so the construction of such hydroelectric power plants is very expensive. Therefore, the use of such hydroelectric power plants in areas that are difficult to access for construction, only in exceptional cases in question. Especially in situations of use, in which in decentralized areas only a small amount of electricity prevails, the excessive effort of building a hydroelectric power plant is not worthwhile. In such places, a commercial diesel generator is currently often used as a power generator, despite possibly existing flowing waters, as a power source.

Furthermore, it has been proposed to provide floating hydropower devices which are placed in waters. However, such floating hydroelectric power plants have the disadvantage that they are kept in the floating position with very expensive components. Usually floating bodies are provided which generate the necessary buoyancy for the hydropower device. Such hydropower devices generally have a higher flexibility. Although they are movable to different locations, but inflexible in terms of their positioning in the flowing waters. Due to the structural arrangement of floats and the thus determined position of the hydropower device, the position of the turbine in the flowing water is set. A variation of the turbine position is only possible through structural changes to the hydropower device itself and thus with great cost and time. This greatly reduces flexibility. Especially in applications that require an adjustment of the position of the hydropower device and in which there are no professionals for the structural conversion, the use of such hydropower devices is not possible due to the lack of flexibility.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a hydropower device which solves the above-described problems of known hydropower devices. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a hydropower device which is suitable for decentralized use and has a high degree of flexibility with regard to its application situation.

This object is achieved by a hydraulic power device with the features of independent claim 1 and by a method for employing a hydraulic power device with the features of independent claim 10 and by a hydropower system having the features of independent claim 15. Advantageous embodiments, u. a. from the subsequent claims to the independent claims.

A water power device according to the invention for use in the flowing water at and / or below the water surface of a body of water has a flow body with at least one inlet opening for flowing water and at least one outlet opening opposite the inlet opening for water. The flow body is therefore the basic structure of the hydropower device, which flows around the flowing water of the water body and flows through the inlet opening and the outlet opening. Advantageously, such a flow body is adapted to such a flow around, or through flow, so that it supplies as little flow resistance as possible. In the case of the explicit configuration of the flow body, the basic principles of fluid mechanics can be used, so that, in particular, the laminar flow around the flow body which is as laminar as possible predominates.

Furthermore, a hydraulic power device according to the invention has a turbine, which is mounted rotatably in the flow body between its inlet opening and the outlet opening of the flow body about its turbine axis. In other words, the flow body forms a substantially annular structure having on both sides at least one opening, namely the inlet opening and the outlet opening. The inlet opening is the use of the hydropower device flowing water of the water opposite, while the outlet opening points in the direction of the flow of the flowing water of the water. Of course, small differences in angle to the flow direction, in particular at the outlet opening, unproblematic for the operation of a water power device according to the invention. The turbine is arranged by its arrangement between the inlet opening and the outlet opening in the flowing water, which flows through the flow body of the hydraulic power device between the inlet opening and the outlet opening. The flow direction is defined by the orientation of the flow body with respect to the flow direction of the flowing water. By the defined flow direction and the turbine itself can be defined in terms of their direction of rotation. Advantageously, a hydropower device according to the invention is thus designed for use in a single defined flow direction. The turbine is rotatably mounted about its turbine axis in the flow body, so that water, which flows through the inlet opening in the flow body, drives the turbine and leaves the flow body again through the outlet opening.

The driving of the turbine is carried out by the flow, or flow around the individual turbine blades by the flowing water.

Further, a generator for generating electricity by the rotation of the turbine is provided, which is coupled to the turbine. Coupling the turbine with the generator is to be understood that the rotation of the turbine generated by this coupling, the current in the generator. Such a coupling can be provided both directly and indirectly.

A direct coupling is possible, for example, when the shaft on which the turbine is seated and with which the turbine rotates simultaneously serves as the input shaft of the generator. This input shaft in the generator, which may be configured from a single element or also in several parts, is in turn advantageously connected to a rotor which rotates within a stator of the generator and generates an electric current by the relative movement between the rotor and the stator. Also, a clutch, for example, a slip clutch between the components can be placed so that an indirect coupling is made via this coupling.

Also indirect couplings between the turbine and the generator are possible to couple the two components together. Depending on the flow velocity of the flowing water, the size of the flow body and the type of turbine, it may be appropriate to use gearboxes which are provided within the coupling between the turbine and the generator. By providing gears, in particular a plurality of gear stages, for example, in particularly slowly flowing water, but large turbine area a slow rotation of the turbine can be translated into a fast rotation of the rotor in the generator, so that even in slow flowing waters a high amount of energy in the generator can be transmitted to generate electricity.

Furthermore, the hydropower device according to the invention has an anchoring device which is designed such that the hydropower device is held by means of the anchoring device with respect to the flow direction of the water counter to the flowing water. In other words, the anchoring device serves to keep the hydropower device at a defined location in relation to the flow direction of the flowing water in the body of water. The hydropower device is thus secured by the anchor device against drifting with the flowing water. Thus, the anchor device also forms an abutment for supporting the force, which is transmitted by the flowing water to the turbine, and is supported by the bearing elements of the turbine on the flow body and from there via the anchor device at the respective anchor point. Such an anchor device can be designed in different ways. So it is possible that elements are anchored in the classical anchor shape at the bottom of a body of water to anchor there the hydropower device. Anchoring outside the water, for example, by fixing an anchor device at the edge of the water, is conceivable for positioning the hydropower device. In situations of use, which have a bridge over the water with flowing water, it may be advantageous to connect the anchor device directly to the bridge, so that existing structural measures, such as the bridge, can be used for the positioning of the hydropower device.

Furthermore, in a hydropower device according to the invention, at least one leveling chamber is provided in the flow body, which has at least one venting device which is designed such that gas contained in the leveling chamber can escape from the leveling chamber and water can penetrate into the leveling chamber while displacing the gas. Thus, the buoyancy force of the hydropower device is changed. The leveling chamber, as the centerpiece of the present invention, is suitable for producing the high degree of flexibility of the hydropower device according to the invention. By providing a ventilation device, the entire Hydroelectric device change its buoyancy. In this case, the term "change in the buoyancy force" refers not only to the setting of a position relative to the surface of the water body, but also to a possible rotation of the water power device itself with respect to the water surface or the bottom of the water. The leveling chamber actively acts on the buoyancy force of the hydropower device in two ways. Firstly, by venting by means of the venting device, ie by the escape of gas contained in the leveling chamber, and displacement of the gas by inflowing water, the buoyancy force is reduced as absolute force, whereby the hydropower device sinks in the water. In addition, a displacement of the center of gravity is possible by the geometric arrangement of the leveling chamber in the flow body, in particular with respect to the center of gravity of the water power device, ie to the center of gravity of the hydropower device with fully ventilated leveling chambers. By moving the center of gravity, for example, a rotation, ie a realignment of the hydropower device can be generated. In other words, the buoyant force can be changed not only in an absolute manner but also in a relative manner by the displacement of the center of gravity and thus by the displacement of the point of application of the buoyant force.

Advantageously, the water which is guided into the leveling chamber for displacing the gas by means of the venting device is water which directly surrounds the flow body of the hydropower device. In such an embodiment, it is not necessary to provide additional fluids, but the location itself provides the opportunity to use the flexibility of the hydropower device.

Of course, the flow body can also be designed in several parts in a hydropower device according to the invention. In particular, at least one but also more leveling chambers are providable. The leveling chambers can be provided in a single component of the flow body or in different components of the flow body. It is also possible that the leveling chamber is formed only by assembling different parts of the flow body, that is, a seal of two components of the flow body against each other form a cavity, which can act as a leveling chamber. The term "flow body" is thus generally to be understood as the structure on which the flowing water flows past and which serves at least as a basic structure for mounting the turbine, the generator and the anchor device. Within this flow body, the leveling chamber according to the invention or even more of these leveling chambers is provided.

Each leveling chamber may be formed as a single sealed chamber or formed by a plurality of individual chambers communicating with each other in fluid communication. By forming many individual chambers, it is possible in particular to address geometrically complex shapes of the flow body. Thus, it is possible to design the flow body purely in terms of fluid dynamic aspects and then to provide on the defined outer contour oriented individual chambers in the interior of the flow body, which are interconnected in fluidkommunizierender connection and thus form the leveling chamber. In the same way, a large number of individual, ie separate leveling chambers can be formed by capping the fluid-communicating connection.

The flow body may have individual active flow elements. By "active flow element" is to be understood an element which allows the flow body a possibility to use the flow of the flowing water of the water body and / or influence. One possibility of such a flow element is the provision of a diffuser on the flow body, or as part of the flow body. Such a diffuser is arranged downstream in the flow direction of the turbine and advantageously extends to the outlet opening of the flow body. The diffuser thereby enlarges its inner diameter abruptly or continuously in the flow direction downstream of the turbine. As a result of the enlargement of the inner diameter, which, for example, can be substantially circular in cross-section, the flow velocity in the area of the turbine is increased. This allows a higher power of the turbine. To ensure that in use cases which provide a diffuser, the flow within the diffuser, ie between the turbine and outlet opening, remains in an advantageous, in particular a laminar area at the edge of the diffuser, it may be advantageous to provide inlet slots, which provide a connection between establish the interior of the flow body between the turbine and the outlet opening and the surroundings of the flow body. In this way, water, which surrounds the flow body, can flow into the diffuser through the inlet slits and prevent a possibly imminent demolition of the flow at the diffuser. In other words, these inlet slots serve to support the flow in the region of the diffuser of the flow body.

Advantageously, in a hydropower device according to the invention, the Venting device regardless of the position of the hydropower device, in particular their orientation with respect to gravity. It is particularly advantageous if the ventilation device in all positions, in particular in opposite positions of rotation of the hydropower device, ie in the 0 ° position and 180 ° position, works in the same way. In other words, the venting device is advantageously a symmetrical arrangement which allows venting independently of the orientation of the hydropower device with respect to gravity. This makes it possible, after the rotation, so turning the hydropower device to vent or before.

A hydraulic power device according to the invention can be further developed such that the flow body has at least one fin which extends substantially along the turbine axis and in which at least one leveling chamber is provided. This fin is, so to speak, an active flow element which serves to influence the flow along the flow body, or to use the flow to determine the position of the hydropower device. The fin serves, for example, for aligning the hydropower device along the flow direction of the flowing water of the water body. Due to the inventive correlation of the fin extension with the extension of the turbine axis, the flow engaging the fin rotates the water power device connected to the fin, in particular the flow body, to a position in which the fin has the least resistance to the flowing water of the water body. Since the extension of the fin along the extent of the turbine axis, the position of least resistance is identical to the position of the flow body, in which the turbine axis extends substantially along the flow direction of the flowing water of the water, the fin serves to the turbine, in particular the Alignment of the turbine axis to bring in the best position for power generation. By providing leveling chambers in such a fin, the additional space of the flow body resulting from the provision of the fin is used according to the invention. Fins, which are arranged at fully aerated leveling chambers substantially above the water surface of the water body with flowing water, can be submerged by venting the leveling chamber in the fins, by gradually reducing the buoyancy force to the entire hydropower device below the water surface of the water body lowers. In other words, by venting the leveling chambers, the activity of the fin can be adjusted with respect to its force for orienting the hydropower device. The farther the fin dives into the water, the larger the surface of attack of the flowing water and the stronger the alignment force exerted by the flow of the flowing water at the fin onto the hydropower device.

Furthermore, such a fin can have a warning device or be connected to a warning device, which is firmly or flexibly connected to the fin, so that damage by ships is essentially precluded. Such a warning device can be provided, for example, as a separate float, which signals the position of the fully submerged water device by flexible connection on the surface of the water. The signaling can be generated by bright colors, fluorescent colors or active light sources such as LEDs.

Further, it is advantageous if at least one fin of the flow body in a hydropower device according to the invention has a footprint which is designed such that in the vented state of the leveling chamber in the fin, this fin can serve as a stand body of the water power device on the bottom of a body of water flowing. In this way, it is possible that the fin, and thus a part of the flow body, receives a dual function. After insertion of the hydropower device, the fin is used to align the flow body, in particular the turbine axis along the flow direction of the flowing water of the water during slow lowering or already directly after insertion. By further venting the leveling chambers, for example the leveling chambers in the fin, the hydropower device can then be rotated so that the fins, after insertion, for example by the rotation of the hydropower device, point towards the bottom of the water. Further lowering the hydropower device causes the hydropower device to land on the ground by reducing the buoyancy force. To make this placement in a defined manner, the footprint is provided on at least one fin, so that the hydropower device gets a firm footing. In an advantageous embodiment, the footprint can form at least a part of the anchor device, so that at the same time the anchoring of the hydropower device against abortion takes place by the final lowering of the hydropower device to the bottom of a body of water.

Regardless of the rotation of the hydropower device, it is also possible for the fin to be located on the lower side of the hydropower device with respect to the gravity direction is. With such an arrangement, no rotation is required to provide, by fully lowering, the footprint of the fin for contact with the bottom of the water body.

It may be advantageous if a hydraulic power device according to the invention is further developed such that the venting device has in its leveling chamber at least one water inlet valve and at least one air outlet valve, wherein the air outlet valve, based on the use situation when venting the leveling chamber above the water inlet valve is arranged. By the arrangement according to the invention can be performed by opening both valves, advantageously first of the water inlet valve and then the air outlet valve, the venting of the leveling chamber. Through the water inlet valve, water, in particular water, which surrounds the flow body, penetrate into the leveling chamber and displace gas. The displaced gas escapes through the air outlet valve and the leveling chamber fills with water. This process can be carried out completely, ie until complete venting of the leveling chamber, but also interrupted at any time in between. The canceling takes place by closing at least one of the two valves, in particular at least the air outlet valve. Advantageously, the two valves are arranged opposite each other, so that the air outlet valve is advantageously located at the highest point and the water inlet valve advantageously at the lowest point of the leveling chamber. The orientation of the valves used here is to be understood as the deployment situation when venting the leveling chamber. This in turn depends on the orientation of the hydropower device in the flowing water at the time of venting.

It may also be advantageous if in a hydropower device according to the invention a ventilation device is provided which is designed such that water contained in the leveling chamber can escape from the leveling chamber and gas can penetrate into the leveling chamber to displace the water, in order to increase the buoyancy force of the hydropower device change. In other words, the ventilation device serves the opposite destination of the ventilation device. The ventilation device thus ventilates the respective leveling chamber and acts in contradistinction to the ventilation by the ventilation device. By providing a ventilation device, the use of the hydropower device is even more flexible, since the venting of the leveling chamber is reversible in this way. By interplay between the venting device and the venting device, flexible leveling can be achieved by varying the buoyancy of the hydropower device in any direction by targeted venting. Again, the term "change in buoyancy" is to be understood not only the change in the absolute value of the buoyancy force, but also the possibility of shifting the point of application of the buoyancy force, so that in addition to the lowering or lifting of the hydropower device, a relative movement of the water power device, for example a rotation relative to the water surface or to the bottom of the water is possible.

A further advantage may be if, in a hydropower device according to the invention, the ventilation device of each leveling chamber has at least one water outlet valve and at least one air inlet valve, the air inlet valve being arranged above the water outlet valve in relation to the application situation when the leveling chamber is ventilated. In a similar manner as in the venting device referred to herein, the air inlet valve and water outlet valve are arranged so that air can be introduced into the leveling chamber through the air inlet valve, which is forced to introduce air, for example by introducing compressed air , which displaces water in the leveling chamber through the water outlet valve. In other words, a ventilation process takes place, which is the reverse of the deaeration process.

The ventilation itself can take place in different ways. Thus, it is possible for a gas generator to be present independently of the environment which leads stored compressed gas or gas produced by chemical reactions through the air inlet valve into the leveling chamber. It is also possible that a compressor is provided, which is in fluid communication with the air inlet valve and with an air supply. The air supply can be both a compressed air chamber, as well as the connection to the water surface by means of a snorkel. The decisive factor is that the ventilation device basically opens the possibility to introduce air through the air inlet valve in the leveling chamber, which displaces the water through the water outlet valve.

In a hydropower device according to the invention, it may be advantageous if at least two leveling chambers are provided spaced apart in the flow body such that the center of gravity of the hydropower device shifts by venting and / or venting one of the two leveling chambers so that a rotation of the hydropower device as a movement relative to the ground of the water with pouring water. By the arrangement of the leveling chambers so spaced apart, the Focus and thus the point of application of the buoyancy force shifted. This displacement forces reorientation of the hydropower device with respect to its position to the bottom of the water body with flowing water. This reorientation takes the form of a rotation which is caused by the torque between the old center of gravity, for example the center of gravity and the new center of gravity, at which the changed buoyancy force now acts.

Additionally or alternatively, it is also possible that the Wasserkraftvorrichtungen has at least two leveling chambers in the flow body, which are arranged spaced from each other in the circumferential direction of the turbine, so that displaces by venting or venting one of the two leveling chambers of the center of gravity of the hydropower relative to the turbine axis and thus a rotation of the hydropower device follows about the turbine axis. This embodiment is an advantageous embodiment, for example, to complete the rotation of the hydropower device to the turbine axis, ie by 180 °, and to be able to perform, for example, then further lowering with a placement of the hydropower device at the bottom of the water. The hydropower device can be rotated about the turbine axis, which is aligned along the flow direction of the flowing water of the water. Also, a rotational alignment of the hydropower device is possible in this way.

Alternatively or in parallel, it is also possible if at least two leveling chambers are arranged in the flow body on different sides of the center of gravity of the hydropower device in a state with aerated leveling chambers, so that by venting and / or aerating one of the two leveling chambers of the center of gravity of the hydropower device relative to the center of gravity of the Hydroelectric device is moved, and thus a hiring of the turbine axis with respect to the flow direction of the flowing water takes place. Such a setting is useful, for example, when water is to be transported from different layers of the flowing water body between the inlet opening and the outlet opening of the flow body. For example, in this way the inlet opening can be lowered and the outlet opening raised or vice versa. The term "center of gravity" is to be understood as the focus which is provided in fully ventilated leveling chambers. Of course, the center of gravity shifts continuously during ventilation, or ventilation of the leveling chambers. Thus, the center of gravity is to be seen as an extreme point on a curve of any number of centers of gravity of the hydropower device. The opposite extreme point is a full center of gravity, so a focus of the hydropower device at fully filled leveling chambers. In between, a line or, in the case of a multiplicity of leveling chambers and different filling processes, even an area of possible centers of gravity extends, on which the center of gravity can come to rest, depending on the degree of filling or venting or ventilation situation of the respective leveling chamber. Within this area or on this line, the center of gravity can be shifted by targeted venting or venting the leveling chambers and thus the position of the hydropower device can be changed.

It should be noted in particular that the leveling chambers are advantageously arranged such that they allow both a rotation about the turbine axis, as well as a hiring of the turbine axis. In particular, the rotation of the turbine axis is advantageous because in this way a counter-rotation can be exerted by the torque applied by the rotating turbine to the hydropower device. A rotating turbine tends to at least partially rotate the hydropower device about the turbine axis so that the hydropower device is tilted in the water. In order to achieve defined flow results, by targeted venting or venting individual leveling chambers, a counter rotation of the Wasserkraftvorrichtung done in the turbine axis, so that the preferred position of the hydropower device in the flowing water of the water is taken again.

• • Einsetzen der Wasserkraftvorrichtung mit belüfteten Nivellierkammern in das strömende Wasser eines Gewässers,
• • Verankern der Wasserkraftvorrichtung mittels der Ankervorrichtung gegen ein Abtreiben der Wasserkraftvorrichtung mit der Strömung des Gewässers, und
• • wenigstens teilweises Entlüften von zumindest einer Nivellierkammer mittels der Entlüftungsvorrichtung zum Absenken und/oder Rotieren der Wasserkraftvorrichtung in einer Bewegung relativ zum Grund des Gewässers.

Another object of the present invention is a method for inserting a hydropower device according to the invention in a body of flowing water. Such a method according to the invention comprises the following steps:

• Inserting the hydropower device with aerated leveling chambers into the flowing water of a body of water,
• • Anchoring the hydropower device by means of the anchor device against a drive off the hydropower device with the flow of the water, and
• At least partially venting at least one leveling chamber by means of the venting device for lowering and / or rotating the hydropower device in a movement relative to the bottom of the water body.

A method according to the invention has the same advantages as a hydropower device according to the invention and as has been explained in detail above. In particular, a method according to the invention is advantageous, Since no complex structural measures are necessary and thus a flexible and decentralized use of a hydropower device according to the invention, in particular the use of this hydropower device is possible. Thus, such a hydropower device can be transported to any place in the world and be used without further accessories in a flowing water of a body of water. In remote areas, this can be used to provide power to smaller areas such as villages. The insertion is possible without great technical effort, especially without specialist personnel, since only an insertion in the water and a venting of the hydropower device must be done. A complicated control and especially structural or constructive measures are not required.

A method according to the invention can be further developed such that, depending on the water position of the hydropower device, at least one leveling chamber is specifically vented via the venting device and / or vented via the aeration device, so that the water position of the hydropower device changes by movement relative to the bottom of the waterbody. This additional process step can be carried out both actively, be initiated by the operation of an operator, or by a small control device, triggered. Such a control device has, for example, various sensors which are capable of determining, in addition to the power of the turbine, also the relative position, that is to say the lowering depth and the angle of attack, or the degree of rotation of the hydraulic power device. Depending on the parameters determined by such sensors, a control device according to the invention can carry out the method step according to the present invention and produce an adaptation of the water position of the hydropower device by targeted venting or aeration of the leveling chambers.

An inventive method can be further improved if, by venting at least one leveling chamber by means of the venting device, the hydropower device is rotated substantially 180 ° about the turbine axis. In other words, the hydropower device is turned over by such a step, so that previously pointing up elements now downwards, ie in the direction of the ground point. In hydropower devices with fins, which have footprints, this is particularly useful because after turning the water power device, a further lowering, in particular a placement of the base of the flow body can be done on the bottom of the hydropower device.

It is also advantageous if, in a method according to the invention, the turbine of the hydropower device is used as a drive for moving the hydroelectric device to its place of use. Here one makes use of the fact that a turbine is an active flow element. In the turbine insert, the turbine blades are caused to rotate by the flowing or flowing around of the flowing water. Equally, however, standing water can also be set in motion by active activation of the turbine, that is to say by means of motorized rotation of the turbine. In other words, in such an embodiment, the turbine is used to transport the hydropower device as a propeller, which serves for the motive movement of the hydropower device. It should be noted that the direction of movement of the hydropower device depends on both the direction of rotation and the angles of attack of the turbine blades. Thus, it is advantageous if, in order to position the hydropower device or to transport the hydropower device in the water, the turbine is rotated opposite to the direction which is used during power generation by the flowing water. With such control, the hydropower device can be positioned and generate power directly after switching to power generation operation without repositioning the hydropower device, particularly without rotation

A further subject of the present invention is a hydropower system comprising at least one hydropower device according to the invention and at least one energy control unit which is in electrical connection with the generator of the hydropower device via a cable connection. This power control unit serves primarily to receive the power generated by the generator via the cable line and to prepare it for use. This can be done, for example, in the form of inverters or rectifiers in an energy control unit. The energy storage in the energy control units in the form of batteries is conceivable. It is also possible that the energy control unit via the cable connection also provides a feedback with the respective hydropower device. Thus, complicated control electronics can be provided in the energy control unit, which controls, for example, the ventilation device and the ventilation device for the individual leveling chambers.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawing figures. The terms used "left", "right", "top" and "bottom" to an orientation of the drawing figures with normal readable reference numerals. Show it:

1a a side view of an embodiment of a hydropower device according to the invention

1b a front view of a hydropower device according to the invention according to 1a

1c an oblique view of the hydropower device according to the invention according to 1a and 1b

2 a further embodiment of a hydropower device according to the invention in cross section

3a a schematic representation of an embodiment of a hydropower device according to the invention in a first position

3b the hydropower device according to 3a in a second position

3c the hydropower device according to the 3a and 3b in a third position

3d the hydropower device according to the 3a to 3c in a fourth position

3e the hydropower device of 3a to 3d in a fifth position

3f the hydropower device of 3a to 3e in a sixth position

4a a hydropower device of another embodiment in a schematic representation in a first position

4b the hydropower device off 4a in a second position

4c the hydropower device from the 4a and 4b in a third position

4d the hydropower device according to the 4a to 4c in a fourth position

4e the hydropower device of 4a to 4d in a fifth position

5 a schematic representation of a leveling chamber in a first embodiment

6 a schematic representation of a leveling chamber in a further embodiment

7a a schematic representation of another embodiment of a leveling chamber in a first position

7b the leveling chamber of the 7a in a second position

8th Detail of a leveling chamber of another embodiment with a combined venting device and ventilation device

9 Arrangement in a schematic representation of a ventilation device and a ventilation device of an embodiment of a leveling chamber

10 an embodiment of a hydropower system with three hydraulic power devices.

11a an embodiment of a leveling chamber in cross section

11b the leveling chamber of the embodiment according to 11a in isometric view

In the 1a . 1b and 1c is a first embodiment of a hydropower device according to the invention 10 shown. Based on these figures, the basic principle of the hydropower device 10 be explained. As in 1c can be seen, points the hydropower device 10 This embodiment, a complex flow body 20 on. The flow body 20 This embodiment has two fins 26 which extend upwards. The fins 26 Both have a stand space 26a in an inverted state, the hydropower device 10 can be supported on a bottom of a body of water. Next, the flow body 20 an inlet opening 22 on which the viewing direction is opposite. On the back and thus hidden in this figure is an outlet opening 24 provided, which in 1b can be seen more clearly. 1b is a representation in the direction of the turbine axis 32 that is through the inlet opening 22 through and out of the outlet 24 out again.

Within the flow body 20 is a turbine 30 arranged. This turbine 30 This embodiment has three turbine blades which are symmetrical about the turbine axis 32 are arranged. The turbine 30 is centered in the flow body 20 stored and with a generator 40 coupled, which serves to generate electricity. For the storage of the turbine 30 a total of four struts are provided, which are the storage of the turbine 30 with the flow body 20 connect. These struts are made as thin as possible to the flow in the area of the turbine 30 to influence as little as possible. At the same time, however, they are mechanically stable enough to the turbine 30 to keep in the desired position even with strong currents.

In front of the entrance opening 22 is provided a star-shaped grid, which with five struts the penetration of large elements in the interior of the flow body 20 prevented. This is useful to avoid having large elements through the entrance opening 22 into the interior of the flow body 22 can get and the turbine 30 the hydropower device 10 could damage or even block.

The flow body 20 The illustrated embodiment also has a flow-active element in the form of a diffuser 28 on. The diffuser 28 closes to the generator 40 and the turbine 30 and has a magnifying round cross-section. By enlarging the cross section of the diffuser 28 The flow rate in the area of the turbine is increased, allowing the possible performance of the turbine 30 is increased. To ensure that the flow is as laminar as possible at the edge on the inside of the flow body 20 flows along and does not tear, are also inlet slots 29 provided, which in the circumferential direction substantially around the flow body 20 in particular the diffuser 28 walk around. Through these inlet slots 20 can be water from the outside of the flow body 20 in its interior, in the area of the diffuser 28 , get there and support the flow there. In this way, so to speak laminarization occurs in the area of the cross-sectional enlargement of the diffuser 28 one.

Not shown in 1a to 1c are leveling chambers 60 that are inside the flow body 20 are located. These will be explained in more detail on the basis of the following sectional drawings.

2 shows a schematic cross section through a further embodiment of the present invention. So here is a hydroelectric device 10 illustrated, which has substantially the features which in terms of embodiment in the 1a to 1c have already been explained. Again, there is a flow body 20 provided that a diffuser 28 having. Within the flow body 20 are a turbine 30 and a generator 40 arranged, which are coupled together via the turbine shaft. In the embodiment of the 2 protrudes the shaft of the turbine 30 directly into the generator 40 into it and carries there the rotor, which rotates within a stator. The shaft of the turbine 30 and with it the wave of the generator 40 Both are coaxial along the turbine axis 32 ,

The flow body 20 is in the representation of 2 along the turbine axis 32 cut so that left the entrance opening 22 for the flowing water and on the right the exit opening 24 can be seen for the flowing water. Water passing through the entrance opening 22 flows, offset by the flow when hitting the turbine 30 this in rotation, and leaves in the diffuser 28 the flow body 20 through the exit opening 24 , By the rotation of the turbine 30 the rotor becomes in the generator 40 rotated and thus generated electricity. For the sake of clarity, not shown is the wiring, which in the generator 40 can dissipate generated electricity.

The hydropower device 10 of the 2 also has a fin 26 on, how, too 1a to 1c already explained, a stand space 26a has. Within this fin 26 is a leveling chamber 60 provided at its lower left end a water inlet valve 72 and at its upper right end an air outlet valve 74 having. The water inlet valve 72 and the air outlet valve 74 together form an integral part of the ventilation device 70 , Is now the hydropower device 10 according to the 2 used in a body of water, so can by the venting device 70 by means of the opening of the two valves 72 and 74 Water in the leveling chamber 60 get and the gas contained through the air outlet valve 74 escape. That in the leveling chamber 60 contained gas escapes through the air outlet valve 74 so that the weight of the hydropower device 10 increases without the volume of the hydropower device 10 is changed. In this way, the buoyancy force is changed, in particular reduced in this case. In other words, the hydropower device catches 10 to sink in such a case. Depending on the degree of filling of the leveling chamber 60 During the venting, a new equilibrium state between buoyancy force and weight force in each existing area of use of the water body is present, so that the position of the hydropower device 10 based on the height above ground, or the depth below the water surface by the targeted venting of the leveling chamber 60 can be set exactly.

In addition, in 2 also schematically an anchor device 50 shown. By means of this anchor device, which here has an anchor and a chain or a rope, the water power device 10 secured against a drift with the flow. The rope or chain connects the anchor with the hydropower device 10 , in particular the flow body 20 such that the armature forms, as it were, the bearing point for catching the flow force acting on the flow body and all other elements of the hydropower device by the flow.

As already explained in detail in the general part of the description, the change in the buoyancy force is not exclusively a pure lowering or lifting the hydropower device 10 in a body of water. Rather, a change in the buoyancy force and a change in the point of application of the buoyancy force is possible. A variant of this change of the attack point is in 3a to 3f explained in more detail. The movement shown in this embodiment is a rotation of the hydropower device 10 essentially around the turbine axis 32 ,

In 3a The hydropower device is shown after passing with fully ventilated leveling chambers 60 has been used in a body of water. The leveling chambers 60 serve as swimmers at this time and are located essentially at the water surface Where. In this situation, the hydropower device can 10 , in particular the flow body 20 be moved to the desired position at which the hydropower device 10 should be anchored. Thus, the anchoring can be done actively by setting an anchor directly or by a method as explained below.

In addition to a pure lowering of the hydropower device 10 , which by continuous flooding of all leveling chambers 60 parallel to the water surface Where would take place can also be a rotation of the hydropower device 10 be performed. 3b shows that selectively the right of the two leveling chambers 60 has been flooded to the half, whereby the buoyancy force is not only reduced, but also from the center of the hydropower device 10 shifts to the right. The displacement of this point of attack causes the hydropower device 10 tilts until it reaches a position as in 3b is shown. Will be the leveling chamber at this time 60 on the right side of the hydropower device 10 further vented, especially as far as completely vented, a situation arises, as in 3c is shown. The further shifting of the point of application of the buoyancy force and the resulting torque, which depends on the hydropower device 10 acts, the hydropower device rotates substantially 90 ° until it has reached a position as in 3c is shown.

At this time, two different actions can be performed. Will the fully vented leveling chamber 60 vented again, the process described above, so that the hydropower device 10 rises again and rotates back. But will also be the second, not yet vented leveling chamber 60 vented, so does the hydropower device 10 in their direction of rotation until further venting in 3c upper leveling chamber 60 , a situation arises as they are in 3d is shown. In other words, the rotation of the hydropower device 10 continued until both leveling chambers 60 essentially completely deaerated, that is substantially completely filled with water. This situation is in 3e shown.

In addition to a further venting of the leveling chambers 60 can also be one in the 3a to 3f not shown additional leveling chamber 60 Serve, by further venting an additional lowering of the hydropower device 10 to achieve. This allows the hydropower device 10 after the above-described rotation about its own axis, that is, turning around, continue to be lowered until the hydropower device 10 to stand on the ground Gr. In such a situation, it is particularly advantageous if the hydropower device 10 footprint 26a on fins 26 which has this hydropower device 10 in the position of 3f Store stably on the ground.

In addition to the possibility of rotation around the turbine axis 32 is parallel but also alternatively a further leveling by the leveling chambers 60 conceivable. This further possibility is in the 4a to 4e explained. This is not about the turbine axis 32 rotates, but rather becomes the turbine axis 32 hired. In 4a is shown an initial state, as it is essentially the starting position in 3a equivalent. However, in the embodiment according to FIG 4a at the hydropower device 10 over two arms of the flow body 20 the two leveling chambers 60 along the turbine axis 32 before, or after the center of gravity L arranged. At these positions can by targeted venting of the two leveling chambers 60 also a movement of the hydropower device 10 relative to the ground Gr or to the water surface Where the water is carried out. The rotation can be carried out as it already is 3a to 3f has been explained or only after an advanced lowering. A first lowering is the 4b refer to. Thereby both leveling chambers become 60 partially flooded, so partially vented, so that the distance D between the water surface Wo and the hydropower device 10 increases. A further lowering is by uniform further venting until complete flooding of the two leveling chambers 60 possible, reducing the distance D between water surface and hydropower device 10 continues to increase. The maximum descent depth gives the correlation of buoyancy force by the displaced water volume and the possibility of receiving water to change the state of equilibrium in the water the size of the leveling chambers 60 in front.

In the event that not only a complete settling but beyond but also a Adjustment of the turbine axis is desired, instead of a further continuous filling of both leveling chambers 60 also a selective venting of one of the two leveling chambers 60 occur. The two alternative options are in the 4d and 4e explained.

4d shows the situation, if only the right, so in relation to the flow direction rear leveling chamber 60 is vented further. This shifts the focus of the hydropower device 10 also to the right, eliminating the entire hydropower device 10 leaning backwards. The inlet opening 22 rises above the outlet opening 24 ,

Conversely, it is also possible the left leveling chamber 60 continue to vent and the right leveling chamber 60 to leave. This lowers the inlet opening 22 under the outlet opening 24 , so that the turbine axis 32 front down tends.

In 5 is now a possibility of a leveling chamber according to the invention 60 represented by a venting device 70 features. The ventilation device 70 has a water inlet valve 72 and an air outlet valve 74 on. In the situation in 5 is shown, is the leveling chamber 60 vented to about one third, ie about one third filled with water. The water is thereby in the direction of the arrow Wa through the water inlet valve 72 in the leveling chamber 60 let in and by opening the air outlet valve 74 the water level rises inside the leveling chamber 60 at. The gas, in particular the air escapes along the arrow Lu from the air outlet valve 74 so that the deaeration process can proceed further.

In addition to the particularly simple embodiment of the 5 can also be an active venting done. This is for example in 6 shown. This corresponds essentially to the 5 , however, each is a pump for active ventilation 90 provided which the venting device 70 supported. One is a pump 90 in front of the water inlet valve 72 switched to suck water along the arrow Wa and through the water inlet valve 72 in the leveling chamber 60 to pump. On the other hand is a pump 90 after the air outlet valve 74 arranged to gas, in particular air along the arrow Lu through the air outlet valve 74 from the leveling chamber 60 suck. It can by the two pumps 90 in front of the water inlet valve 72 , or after the air outlet valve 74 Both or even one of them be provided. About these pumps 90 can be dispensed with the use of positive-displacement pumps on a respective valve, as by the stoppage of the respective pump 90 an unconstrained flow is excluded.

In the 7a and 7b is a symmetrical arrangement of the venting device 70 shown. 7a corresponds to the 6 , However are air outlet valve 74 and water inlet valve 72 designed so that they simultaneously as ventilation devices 80 can serve. That's how it shows 7b the vented state of the leveling chamber 60 not only in the lowered but even in the rotated state as he to the 3a to 3f has been explained. This will turn the valves 72 and 74 relative to each other. That means the original water inlet valve 72 now up and as an air inlet valve 82 acts. The former air outlet valve 74 is now down and works as a water outlet valve 84 , In this way, the same valves previously used for the venting device 70 served in this way by the symmetrical arrangement for the ventilation device 80 be used. The same symmetrical arrangement is of course conceivable without the rotation of the leveling chamber 60 , In such a case, the air outlet valve would 74 at the same time as an air inlet valve 82 and the water inlet valve 72 at the same time as a water outlet valve 84 can serve.

8th shows a further embodiment of an active venting or ventilation device 80 , Again, there is an air outlet valve 74 , or an air inlet valve 82 provided, with only a single pump 90 is provided for all functionalities of the ventilation and also the ventilation. To the pump 90 to be able to use for both directions of the air flow are shut-off valves 92 arranged substantially rectangular to each other. Here are the check valves 92 each cross-shaped closed or opened, so that two ways for the pump 90 can be opened or closed. Depending on the open path is the direction of the pump 90 on the valve 74 respectively. 82 to or from this way. Depending on the position of the check valves 92 So can the pump 90 Gas, in particular air via an air inlet valve 82 in the leveling chamber 60 or from the identically shaped air outlet valve 74 aspirate. Thus, the constellation forms as in 8th is shown, both a part of the ventilation device 70 as well as a part of the ventilation device 80 , The respective components become integral for both devices 70 and 80 used.

Additionally is in 8th provided a pressure chamber, which as a compressed air tank 86 in fluid communication with the pump 90 stands. For the situation of venting the pump sucks 80 Gas, in particular air from the leveling chamber 60 from and pump them into the compressed air tank 86 , This increases the internal pressure of the compressed air tank 86 and this also serves as a storage container for compressed air for subsequent ventilation. In the case of ventilation, the compressed air in the compressed air tank 86 used to pump over 90 back to the leveling chamber 60 to be blown. In this way, no contact with the environment is necessary, so that a self-sufficient system can be presented, which serves both for ventilation, as well as for ventilation. However, it is important to ensure that any leaks over the duration of the use of the hydropower device 10 not lead to a deterioration of the reversibility.

9 shows a further embodiment of a ventilation device 80 combined venting device 70 , Here is an open system for contact with the environment available, so that gas, in particular air along the arrows Lu and water along the arrows Wa can be replaced. The air exchange can be carried out for example by a snorkel with the existing air above the water surface or via a pressure vessel similar to the embodiment in 8th occur. The water exchange is advantageously carried out directly with the flow body 20 surrounding water.

In this case are also in functional union an air outlet valve 74 or air inlet valve 82 and a water inlet valve 72 and water outlet valve 84 intended. Again, there are check valves 92 present, which can make contact with the respective valve for air exchange or water exchange. In this way, a simple circuit is provided, which lead to each valve both gas, in particular air and gas, in particular to dissipate air, or lead water and water can dissipate. Each valve is thus beyond the marking by the reference numerals in 9 also usable in fourfold ways. Thus, each valve can be used as an air inlet valve 82 , as an air outlet valve 74 , as a water inlet valve 72 or as a water outlet valve 84 be provided. This is possible in particular if, in addition, a cross-shaped circuit is provided in the respective valve, as described in US Pat 8th is shown. An advantageous embodiment thus has a combination of 8th and 9 on, in 9 per valve a circuit according to 8th is provided.

10 shows a further subject of the present invention, namely a hydropower system 100 , The hydropower system 100 of the 10 has three hydropower devices 10 as exemplified by the embodiment of the 1a to 1c has already been explained. Each of these hydropower devices 10 is with a cable connection 112 with an energy control unit 110 connected, which is capable of that of the generator 40 the respective hydropower device 10 continue to process or forward generated electricity. Further processing in the energy control unit 110 can be done for example by the inverting or rectifying. Also a temporary storage or an intelligent distribution of the generated electricity is conceivable here. In addition, it is possible that in the hydropower system 100 the single energy control units 110 connected to each other. Such a connection can be made, for example, via cable connections 112 be produced, so that on the one hand generated electricity between the energy control units 110 on the other hand, information between the energy control units 110 can be shipped. In this way, modular can be any size hydropower system 100 be presented, which from any and therefore flexible number of hydropower devices 10 and energy control units 110 is composed. The flexibility of such a hydropower system 100 is given by the modular design to a very large extent and can be used for example to adapt to growing needs.

In the 11a and 11b is another embodiment of a leveling chamber 60 of the present invention. This is a substantially cube-shaped leveling chamber 60 whose outer wall is completely within the flow body 20 is included, so has no direct contact with the water flowing around. For the supply of air, as well as for the water supply two valves are provided, which are a water inlet valve 72 and an air inlet valve 82 form. Both valves 72 and 82 are designed as multi-way valves, according to the embodiment of 11a and 11b five connections per valve 72 and 82 are provided. This means that by means of each of the two valves 72 and 82 five leveling chambers 60 can be controlled. In the picture of the 11a and 11b is only one leveling chamber 60 to the two valves 72 and 82 connected. At the water outlet valve 84 this is the embodiment of the two 11a and 11b around a simple pressure relief valve. Is via the air inlet valve 82 Compressed air in the leveling chamber 60 injected, escapes through the compressed air displaced water through this pressure relief valve 84 , The discharged water is directly or indirectly via subsequent lines again the flow around the flow body 20 fed. Into the air inlet valve 82 is also a pressure relief valve as an air outlet valve 74 integrated, allowing air from the leveling chamber 60 can escape when water enters the leveling chamber 60 is filled.

It is understood that the present invention by the described embodiments only explained in more detail and must be limited in any way. In particular, it should be noted that the options described for the individual embodiments for individual components of the hydropower device 10 and the hydropower system 100 Of course, interchangeable and can be combined with each other.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

Hydropower device

20

flow body

22

inlet port

24

outlet

26

fin

26a

footprint

28

diffuser

29

inlet slot

30

turbine

32

turbine axis

34

Storage of the turbine shaft

40

generator

50

anchoring device

60

Nivellierkammer

70

venting device

72

Water inlet valve

74

air release

80

aeration device

82

Air inlet valve

84

water outlet

86

Air receiver

90

pump

92

shut-off valve

100

Hydropower system

110

Power control unit

112

cable connection

L

Empty center of the hydropower device

Lu

air

Wa

water

Gr

Reason of the water

Where

water surface

D

Distance to the water surface

Wa

water

Lu

air

Claims (15)

Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) for use in the flowing water at and / or below the water surface of a water body comprising a flow body ( 20 ) with at least one inlet opening ( 22 ) for flowing water and at least one of the inlet opening ( 22 ) opposite outlet opening ( 24 ) for water, a turbine ( 30 ) located between the inlet opening ( 22 ) and the outlet opening ( 24 ) about its turbine axis ( 32 ) rotatable in the flow body ( 20 ), a generator ( 40 ) for generating electricity by the rotation of the turbine ( 30 ) connected to the turbine ( 30 ), and an anchoring device ( 50 ), which is designed such that the hydropower device ( 10 ) by means of the anchor device ( 50 ) relative to the flow direction of the water is held against the flowing water, wherein at least one leveling chamber ( 60 ) in the flow body ( 20 ) is provided, the at least one venting device ( 70 ), which is designed such that in the leveling chamber ( 60 ) contained gas from the leveling chamber ( 60 ) and water in the leveling chamber ( 60 ) can penetrate under displacement of the gas to the buoyancy of the hydropower device ( 10 ) to change. Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the flow body ( 20 ) at least one fin ( 26 ) substantially along the turbine axis ( 32 ) and in which at least one leveling chamber ( 60 ) is provided. Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) according to claim 2, characterized in that the at least one fin ( 26 ) of the flow body ( 20 ) a stand area ( 26a ), which is designed such that in the vented state of the leveling chamber ( 60 ) in the fin ( 26 ) this fin ( 26 ) as a stationary body of the hydropower device ( 10 ) at the bottom of a body of water. Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ventilation device ( 70 ) each leveling chamber ( 60 ) at least one water inlet valve ( 72 ) and at least one air outlet valve ( 74 ), wherein the air outlet valve ( 74 ), based on the situation when venting the leveling chamber ( 60 ), above the water inlet valve ( 72 ) is arranged. Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a ventilation device ( 80 ) is provided, which is designed such that in the leveling chamber ( 60 ) contained water from the leveling chamber ( 60 ) and gas in the leveling chamber ( 60 ) can penetrate under displacement of the water to the buoyancy of the hydropower device ( 10 ) to change. Hydroelectric device according to claim 5, characterized in that the ventilation device ( 80 ) each leveling chamber ( 60 ) at least one water outlet valve ( 84 ) and at least one air inlet valve ( 82 ) having. Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two leveling chambers ( 60 ) in the flow body ( 20 ) are provided so spaced apart that by venting and / or venting one of the two leveling chambers ( 60 ) the center of gravity of the hydropower device ( 10 ) so that a rotation of the hydropower device ( 10 ) follows as movement relative to the bottom of the water body with flowing water. Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) according to claim 7, characterized in that at least two leveling chambers ( 60 ) in the flow body ( 20 ) in the circumferential direction of the turbine ( 30 ) are spaced apart, so that by venting and / or venting one of the two leveling chambers ( 60 ) the center of gravity of the hydropower device ( 10 ) relative to the turbine axis ( 32 ) and thus a rotation of the hydropower device ( 10 ) around the turbine axis ( 32 ) follows. Hydroelectric device ( 10 ) according to one of claims 7 to 8, characterized in that at least two leveling chambers ( 60 ) in the flow body ( 20 ) on different sides of the center of gravity (L) of the hydropower device ( 10 ) in a condition with ventilated leveling chambers ( 60 ) are arranged so that by venting and / or venting one of the two leveling chambers ( 60 ) the center of gravity of the hydropower device ( 10 ) relative to the center of gravity (L) of the hydropower device ( 10 ) and thus a hiring of the turbine axis ( 32 ) follows the flow direction of the flowing water. Method for using a hydropower device ( 10 ) having the features of any one of claims 1 to 9 in a body of flowing water, comprising the following steps: • inserting the hydropower device ( 10 ) with ventilated leveling chambers ( 60 ) into the flowing water of a body of water, • anchoring the hydropower device ( 10 ) by means of the anchor device ( 50 ) against abortion of the hydropower device ( 10 ) with the flow of the water and • at least partially venting of at least one leveling chamber ( 60 ) by means of the ventilation device ( 70 ) for lowering and / or rotating the hydropower device ( 10 ) in a movement relative to the bottom of the water. A method according to claim 10, characterized in that depending on the water position of the hydropower device ( 10 ) targeted at least one leveling chamber ( 60 ) via the ventilation device ( 70 ) and / or via the ventilation device ( 80 ) is ventilated so that the water level of the hydropower device ( 10 ) changes by a movement relative to the bottom of the water. Method according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that by venting at least one leveling chamber ( 60 ) by means of the ventilation device ( 70 ) the hydropower device ( 10 ) substantially 180 ° about the turbine axis ( 32 ) is rotated. A method according to claim 13, characterized in that by further venting at least one leveling chamber ( 60 ) by means of the ventilation device ( 70 ) the hydropower device ( 10 ) is further lowered in the water, until at least a part of the flow body ( 20 ) comes to rest on the bottom of the water. Method according to one of claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the turbine ( 30 ) of the hydropower device ( 10 ) as a drive for moving the hydropower device ( 10 ) is used to their place of use. Hydropower system ( 100 ) comprising at least one hydropower device ( 10 ) with the features of one of claims 1 to 9 and at least one energy control unit ( 110 ) connected via a cable connection ( 112 ) with the generator ( 40 ) of the hydropower device ( 10 ) is in electrical connection.

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