EP0059215A1 - Apparatus for increasing the velocity of water flow for electric power generation and other uses - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus for increasing the speed of water or liquids containing water, comprising structural means (10, 110-116) interposed in the water flow path or moving relative to the water. The structural means comprise at least one side wall (12, 110) which is curved longitudinally from a point of deflection (16, 118) at its outer end towards a curve which gradually flattens at its inner end. The wall is curved transversely from a flat surface at its outer end to an almost circular curvature at its inner end. The speed of the water or liquid is thus increased appreciably. Such an increase in speed can be used for the production of electrical energy or for the recovery and separation of oil and other polluting materials from water. In the latter use, a boat (100) is propelled into the water, and the increased speed allows the water-polluting substance mixture to be brought to a separation installation (132) without pumping.

Description

APPARATUS FOR INCREASING THE VELOCITY OF WATER FLOW FOR ELECTRIC POWER GENERATION AND OTHER USES

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates as indicated to water treatment apparatus. In one form of the invention, the broad invention concepts are utilized for generating electric power from wave action forces, tides, and bodies of water having uni-directional flow such as rivers. This is accomplished by increasing the velocity of the water along longitudinally and transversely curved surfaces for driving generating equipment. In a further form of the invention, these same velocity increasing capabilities are used to separate water from contaminants, such as oil or chemical wastes, with a vessel being provided with longitudinally and transversely curved surfaces at the hull thereof. Wave action generators for producing electric energy are well known in the art. Such generators frequently operate on the principle of using the vertical motion inherent in the formation and movement of the waves to effect vertical movement of a component of the generating system. A typical prior art system translates such vertical movement to rotary movement to directly or indirectly drive a generator shaft or the like by means of which the electric power is generated. Examples of vertical-to-rotaxy systems are disclosed in U.S. Patent 870,706 to H.P. Woodard, U.S. Patent 3,894,241 to S. Kaplan, and U.S. Patent 3,959,663 to J.V. Rubsy. Other systems use the vertical wave motion to operate pumps for pumping the water to a storage vessel or reservoir, with the hydrostatic pressure of the stored water subsequently driving a turbine generator or the like by means of which electric power is directly produced.

A major difficulty with wave action generating systems known in the prior art is their relativelycomplex and consequently costly construction. As a result, the necessary capital investment in systems of this type has been a substantial detriment to the commercial employment of the systems, particularly where the energy output does not justify the installation costs. It will be noted in this regard that systems must be designed to withstand and satisfactorily handle wave swells at their greatest peak, and must also be constructed to accommodate and satisfactorily handle, on an economic basis, waves of normal or less than normal height. Installations in saline water conditions present the additional problem of corrosive conditions, which has not been satisfactorily dealt with in prior art systems.

In copending U.S. Application Serial No. 127,990, filed March 7, 1980, entitled "Wave Action Generating System", in the names of Peter M. Borgren and Albert J. Amatuzio, there is disclosed a wave action generating system which employs a supporting structure, such as a coffer dam or silo-like structure, mounted relative to a body of water so as to separate the same into a relatively shallow reservoir confined by the support means and the open body of water at normal water level and subjected to wave action. The difference in water levels between the reservoir and the open body of water creates a controllable hydrostatic pressure head. A plurality of pump assemblies are mounted around the silo or along the walls of the coffer dam, with the piston of each pump being operatively connected to a float member subjected to wave action. As wave forces contact the float members, the same are raised, thereby raising the piston and creating a negative pressure within the lower pump chamber, as a result of which water is directed from the reservoir into such lower pump chambers. As a result, the water level of the reservoir is reduced. Due to the hydrostatic pressure thus produced relative to the water surrounding the silo or coffer dam, water is forced through turbine generators to produce energy, with the water exhausted from the turbine entering the reservoir to complete the cycle. A significant amount of electrical energy can thereby be produced. Although the described system is of substantial importance to the art of wave action generating systems, it is essentially limited in utility to conditions where substantial wave action activity is encountered. It is not adaptable to tidal conditions where wave action is minimal, nor can the system be utilized where water is uni-directional in flow, such as rivers, where wave action does not exist.

With regard to tide action generators, the basic concept of utilizing differences in water level due to tide conditions to create electrical energy is well known in the art. Extensive research has been conducted in this area for many years due to the consistency of the tidal movements and the differential in high and low tides at particular locations. However, tidal generators have also comprised, for the most part, structure or devices by which the vertical water drop is translated into rotary motion to drive power generating equipment.

Likewise, economic energy associated with unidirectional water flow has also been used for power generating systems. Dams of course come readily to mind, with the water flow in that instance being subjected to vertical drop which is used for energy production.

With regard to the invention form utilizing the velocity increasing concepts of the invention for separating surface contaminants, such as oil, from water, the problem of oil spills has greatly intensified over the past several years, and presents a serious environmental concern. The spillage can result from various causes, with perhaps the two principal causes being the blow-out of off shore well installations, and leakage from tankers en route to port facilities. Off shore development is continually on the increase in an effort to obtain more sources of oil, both in waters around our coast lines and in other locations around the world. The problem is magnified by the ever increasing size of oil tankers, where the loss of partial or complete tanker loads involves vast amounts of petroleum.

Due to the increasing environmental awareness of the damages of oil spills to the ecology, a great number of apparatuses have been recently developed for treating oil spills. Certain of these relate to absorbing the oil on the surface of the water and thereafter treating or discarding the absorbed oil . Chemical solutions have also been attempted. However, prior art attempts to solve the problem are predominantly related to apparatuses which attempt to skim the oil from the surface of the water, or to collect a mixture of oil and water, and thereafter separate the oil from the water at the site. A typical example of such an apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Patent 4,182,679 to Paul Van Hekle, which discloses an oil skimming apparatus in which oil and water are collected as a mixture and thereafter physically separated, with the oil being removed, and the water discharged. A plurality of gates are positioned at the front of the apparatus and serve to direct the oil-water mixture into the separation area, with the separation being primarily effected by virtue of the different specific gravities of the oil and water. Both the oil or water are separately directed to and stored on a barge to which the skimming apparatus is operatively connected.

U.S. Patent 4,120,793 to P.G. Strain discloses a vessel having a bow formed with apertures through which oil and water are directed. The oil and water mixture passes into conduits which direct the mixture to separation apparatus. U.S. Patent 4,058,461 to T.I. Gaw also shows a vessel wherein the bow is of a specific configuration, with the oil-water mixture being directed into a collecting area and thereafter pumped into settling tanks. After a period of settling, the water is separated from the oil, with the oil being collected and the water pumped out of the tanks through discharge pipes.

U.S. Patent 3,890,234 to Frank Galicia discloses an oil separation and recovery device in which the incoming oil-gas mixture is directed across corrugated- shaped troughs which are upwardly and forwardly inclined to facilitate separation of the oil from the water, with the oil thereafter, due to its buoyancy, being collected and pumped through a discharge pipe.

It is also known to utilize on-site separating apparatus in the form essentially of centrifigal separators, which function to separate the oil from the water based on differences in specific gravity. Reference is made to U.S. Patent 3,666,099 to Frank Galicia for such teaching.

In all of the above described prior art, and other prior art with which applicant is familar, the oil separating and recovering apparatuses are characterized by their rather elaborate and expensive construction.

Normally, pumping means are required to pump the oil-water mixture once collected to an area of separation, with the reason being that the apparatuses are normally operating at relatively low speeds. In these devices which attempt simply to skim the oil from the surface of the water, the results have not been satisfactory due to the inherent difficulty of collecting just the oil as opposed to an oil-water mixture. Where specifically configured bows have been devised to facilitate a col lection of the oil-water mixture, they are primarily for the purpose of more gradually confining the mixture directed into the vessel, as opposed to providing a surface which changes the vessel or other characteristics of the mixture. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A principal feature of the present invention when used for generating electrical energy is the adaptability of the invention to environments where wave action, tidal action or uni-directional water flow to an appreciable extent exists, or combinations of these water forces. It will be understood that in each of these environments a particular installation system is preferred, although in each instance the results achieved are based on the same scientific premise. Specifically, in each instance water is diverted along a curved path at the end of which is a cowling of reduced diameter toward the outlet end thereof, with such outlet end directly communicating with a turbine by means of which electrical energy is produced. Not only is such path longitudinally curved, but the surface against which the water impinges is transversely curved in progressively greater amounts as it approaches thecowling thereby effecting a swirling action which increases the velocity of the water. Such increased velocity is of course translatable directly into force, in accordance with well established scientific principals.

The invention is specifically adaptable to varying water conditions. Where wave action is the source from which the power is derived, a generally V-shaped structure is arranged at the appropriate location from the shore, with the apex of the V extending outwardly. As is well known, in wave environments, the motion of the water is confined essentially to the depth of the wave, and the waves will be split by the apex of the V for passage along the sides of the structure. As above noted, the sides are both longitudinally and transversely curved, and as a result there is a substantial increase in velocity of the water as it passes along the curved wall. Adjacent the inner end of each wall is positioned a cowling the outer end of which is shaped generally complimentary to the shape of the wall immediately adjacent the entry end of the cowling. The cowling is tapered inwardly toward its discharge end at which is positioned the turbine to be driven by the water. The cowling can be a separately formed member, or the side wall can be shaped to provide a generally circular, inwardly tapering opening through which the water, at high velocity, passes into the turbine. It has been imperically determined that the velocity of the water passing through the cowling and into the turbine is approximately 30 feet per second. Where the invention is employed in tidal action environment, the basic principles are the same as above described. However, a second generally V-shaped structure either separate from or integral with the first is positioned downstream of the first to take advantage of the return tide. Thus, an additional pair of curved side walls leading to an apex are arranged, with the return tide flow being directed to separate cowlings located at the end of the longitudinally and transversely curved walls and communicating at their outer ends with generating turbines.

The invention is adapted for use in river conditions by providing a single longitudinally and trans- versely curved wall surface at the end of which is positioned the turbine generator as above described. In a river environment, the water flow is split, with a portion of the flow continuing downstream, and the other portion being directed along the curved wall surface, with the water discharged from the turbine likewise being directed downstream. There are of course circumstances where both river and tidal currents exist, and in a further form of the invention, the structure is modified to increase, in both directions, the velocity of the water as it approaches the structure. If desired, the side walls and turbines subjected to water flow in one direction can be vertically staggered relative to the side walls and turbines of the side walls subjected to water flow in the opposite direction. In this manner, conservation of space is provided.

In order to prevent debris from entering the turbine generators, the directional cowling is preferably provided with grids or filters at appropriate locations therealong thereby to provide a reasonably clean flow of water to the turbines.

Where the present invention is utilized for separating contaminents, such as oil, from water, the invention is characterized by its ability to treat the incoming oil-water mixture so as to accelerate or increase in velocity the mixture along curved paths, with the resulting speed of travel of the collected mixture being such that it is, without further assistance, directed through the boat to a barge or the like towed by the boat. The bow of the vessel is shaped so as to' provide a front apex, and longitudinally and curved sidewalls are arranged relatively adjacent the sides of the vessel at the front thereof, with the innermost ends of each adjacent pair of walls terminating in a central opening through which the mixture passes to a barge or similar apparatus towed behind the vessel. The speed of the vessel and the acceleration of the oil-water mixture as described permits flow of the mixture to a separating device without necessitating the use of the pumps positioned either in the bow of the vessel or in the pipes or conduits through which the mixture passes. - The invention is further characterized by the provision of a separate, towed vessel having separating apparatus by means of which the oil-water mixture can be separated, with the oil being conveyed to a storage vessel, and the water being discharged overboard. Thus, the entire separation and collection process can be carried out while the vessel is traveling.

A further feature of the invention is that the vessel collecting the oil-water mixture can comprise any of a number of commercially available boats, with suitable modification to include the collecting structure and pipes or conduits through which the mixture is directed under achieved pressures to the barge operatively connected to the vessel. The barge can be of simplified construction, containing a separator to receive the mixture, a storage tank into which the separated oil can be passed for storage, and an outlet pipe for discharging water. Thus, the entire assembly, including the barge, can be manufactured at relatively low cost. The collecting and separating vessel is also well suited to remove other pollutants from water surfaces. For example, it is common, knowledge that various chemicals such as D.D.T. accumulate in concentrated amounts in the top 1/4" to 1/2" of the water surface. The apparatus of the present invention can collect such concentrated amounts of pollutants and treat the same so as to remove the pollutants from the water, which is thereafter discharged overboard from the vessel. In the case of D.D.T. , such pollutant can be passed at increased velocities in accordance with the invention through treatment equipment carried by the trailing barge for collecting the pollutant. Such equipment can comprise, for example, beds of activated charcoal to which the pollutant adheres and which can be destroyed or renewed to provide a fresh adherent material. If desired, the treatment material such as charcoal can be removed from the trailing barge and processed on shore.

The portability of the collecting vessel is of course a significant advantage. Present collecting vessels are characterized by their relatively large size and limited utilization. The present invention, on the other hand, comprises a relatively small vessel which is a modified boat of comparatively small dimension and consequently low cost. The vessel can be transported easily by airplane or helicopter to the area of the oil spill or other pollution. This adds an obviously desirable dimension to the advantages of the present invention. These and other objects of the invention will become apparent as the following description proceeds and particular reference to the application drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE APPLICATION DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a top plan view of a water power generator particularly designed for wave action environment;

Figure 2 is a water power generator specifically designed for tide water environment;

Figure 3 is a water power generator especially designed for uni-directional water flow conditions such as rivers;

Figure 4 is a top plan view of a further form of the invention, particularly designed for river conditions where tidal action exists; Figure 5 is a partially diagrammatic perspective view of the Figure 1 form of the invention, showing more clearly the curvature and configuration of the side walls of the structure;

Figure 6 is a fragmentary front elevational view showing in more detail the directional cowling mounted at the end of the side wall adjacent the turbine generator;

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken on lines 7-7 of Figure 5 and showing the transverse cur vature of the side wall at the section line;

Figure 8 is a sectional view taken on line 8-8 of Figure 5;

Figure 9 is a sectional view taken on line 9-9 of Figure 5; Figure 10 is a top plan view of a collecting vessel in accordance with the basic invention concepts, shown operatively connected to a barge towed by the vessel;

Figure 11 is a side elevational view of the assembly shown in Fig. 10;

Figure 12 is a front elevational view of the collecting vessel, showing the adjacent collecting cavities and the varying transverse cross-sectional configuration along the side walls of' the cavities; Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 13-13 of Figure 12, and

Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 14-14 of Figure 12.

DETATLED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Reference is now made to the application drawings, wherein like parts are indicated by like reference numerals, and initially to the form of the invention shown in Figs. 1-9 utilized for generating electrical power. Referring first to Figures 1 and 5, there is illustrated therein a structural body generally indicated at 10 which is permanently installed relatively close to shore. The Fig. 1 form of the invention is particularly adaptable to environments where wave action forces are encountered, and the structure 10 can be mounted permanently at the desired location in terms of distance from the shore and depth of water so as to expose the side walls thereof to maximum wave action forces. The structure 10 can be formed of any suitable material, for example, poured concrete, structural steel either covered or systematized to prevent corrosion, or combinations of these materials, or other suitable building materials. Likewise, the surface of the structure, including the surface of the side walls to be presently described, can be coated if desired to reduce building costs and prolong the life of the structure or, in the case of the side walls, to reduce the friction of the water passing therealong.

The structure 10 as shown in Fig. 1 includes two longitudinally and transversely curved side walls 12 and 14, the outer ends of which merge into an apex 16. At the end of each wall is a cowling means commonly designated at 18 and diagrammatically shown in Fig. 1. The outlet end of each cowling member communicates with a turbine generator 20 by means of which electrical energy is produced from the power of the water passing along the side walls.

The arrows in Fig. 1 illustrate the path of diversi of the water as it approaches the structure 10. The wave directly engaging the side walls 12 and 14 will continue therealong as will be presently described with reference to Fig. 5, and the wave contacting the structure in the region of the apex 16 will be split, passing to either one or the other of the side walls. It will be noted that the structure 10 is intended to capture the force of the wave action only insofar as the wave action contacts the side walls of the structure, with the structure not being attended to confine or in any way inhibit waves passing to either side of the structure.

The turbinesper se form no part of the present invention, with any satisfactory generator being capable of use for the purpose intended. Examples of turbine constructions which can be used satisfactorily in accordance with the present invention are the "TURE turbine units" manufactured by the Hydro-Turbine Division of Allis-Chalmers, York, Pennsylvania and turbine pumps manufactured by Johnston Pump Company, Glendora, California, with turbine pump Nos. 27CC and 27DC being exemplary. The latter have impellers which are approximately 19"-21" in diameter, and are particularly adaptable to use in relative shallow wave action environments. It will be understood that turbines of larger impeller diameter can also be used, depending upon the environmental conditions.

Referring to Fig. 5, there is diagrammatically illustrated therein in perspective view a more clear illustration of the longitudinal and transverse curvature of the side walls 12 and 14, respectively. The cowling 18 located at the inner ends of each side wall is shown positioned within the inner end of the side walls, with each cowling communicating at its inner end with a turbine 20. It will be noted that the side walls are longitudinally curved from the apex toward the turbine, with the angle of inclination adjacent each wall being relatively flat, that is, approaching a plane generally perpendicular to the path of movement of the wave. Each wall 12 and 14 relatively adjacent the apex 16 is. essentially planer, with transverse curvature increasing toward the turbine end of the wall. The manner in which the side walls are progressively transversely curved is shown in cross section in Figs. 7, 8 and 9, and, as noted in Fig. 6, the side walls are essentially of closed circular cross section immediately in front of the cowling member 18. As a result of the longitudinal and transverse curvature, the water in the form of relatively rapidly moving waves gradually increases velocity as it travels along each side wall, due to both the vertical and horizontal wave forces. It is rudimentary that water reaching the turbine 20 will take the same amount of time as water passing directly unimpeded to the shore, thereby resulting in the increase in speed or velocity of the water as it passes along each curved wall. Thus, both the kinetic and potential energy from the vertical and horizontal wave forces are utilized. The longitudinal curvature is continuous, as above noted, and the transverse curvature is increasingly more pronounced, as noted in Figs. 7-9. This transverse and longitudinal curvature results in a rapid rollover of the water as it passes along the side walls, as shown in arrows located along each side wall 12 and 14. Referring to Fig. 6, the cowling member 18 is shown therein on a somewhat larger scale. The member preferably is a separate member and positioned within the closed, tapered end of the side wall. The cowling tapers in diameter from the outer end thereof to the inner end thereof, and filters 22 and 24 are preferably provided at the inlet and outlet ends of the cowling. Depending upon the shape of the closed inner end of each wall, the cross-sectional configuration of the cowling will vary, but in the form shown, the cowling is generally circular in cross section, tapering from a larger to a small diameter as shown. The filter members 22 and 24 are for the purpose of removing debris or the like from the water, prior to passage of the same into the turbine generator, which is diagrammatically shown both in Figs. 5 and 6.

Although the cowling 18 is shown as a separate member in Figs. 1, 5 and 6, it will be apparent that the innermost end of each side wall can be configured to provide a tapered opening similar in shape to the cowling member 18. This would avoid the need for a separate member, although filter means would preferably still be employed for the indicated purpose. As shown, the cowling member is encased within the inner end of the wall, although total encasement would not be absolutely necessary. The closing of the side wall at the inner end thereof, or the provision of a separate cowling, or both, is dictated by the need for retention of the swirling water passing along each side wall, and as long as a substantial amount of the water is retained for turbine generating purposes, it is sufficient.

As above noted, the side walls 12, along with the structure 10, can be formed of any suitable material, with concrete being one example. In order to reduce the friction of the water passing along the wall, the surfaces of the walls can be coated with a friction-reducing material, such as fiberglass or the like. It will be noted in this regard that the horizontal forces of the wave directly impinging upon the side walls between the apex and the turbine will be deflected in the direction of curvature of the walls whereby considerable frictional forces result. The provision of a friction-reducing surface would reduce such frictional forces to the extent possible, thereby maximizing the horizontal wave forces directed along the curved side walls. As noted, Fig. 1 is specifically designed for a wave action environment, although the general concepts of the present invention are adaptable to river and/or tidal conditions as well. Figs. 2-4 illustrate such other environments,with Fig. 2 diagrammatically illustrating in plan view a structure utilizing or taking advantage of tide action; Fig. 3 illustrating a system installed in a body of water, for example a river, wherein the flow is substantially or entirely uni-directional, and Fig. 4 illustrating a system particularly adapted to a river environment where tidal conditions also exist.

Referring to Fig. 2, the structure 30 diagrammatica illustrated therein includes side walls 32, 34, 36 and 38. The side walls 32 and 34 merge at their outer ends to an apex 40, and the opposite walls 36 and 38 likewise merge at their outer ends to an apex 42. Cowling means commonly designated at 18 is positioned at the inner end of each curved side wall as described, with each cowling in turn communicating with a separate turbine generator 20.

The longitudinal and transverse curvature of each side wall is preferably identical or similar to the curvature of the side walls 12 and 14 as shown in Fig. 5. It will be apparent that during tidal conditions, water flows first in one direction and then returns in the other, as depicted by arrows at the top and bottom of Fig. 2. Thus, during conditions of high tide, for example, water impinges upon the side walls 36 and 38, increasing velocity in the process, to drive the associated turbine generators 20. The spent water is thereafter directed downstream of the building structure. During periods approaching low tide, the flow is of course in the opposite direction, with the flow impinging on side walls 32 and 34, with the built-up forces from the water due to their passage along the walls driving the associated turbine generators 20. It is of. course assumed that the structure.30 of Fig, 2 would be utilized in an environment where sufficient tide action was present to justify the installation. There may also be present wave action forces where the structure is installed in environments where wave action is normally generated. The Fig. 2 installation is preferably in an open body of water, and the system can be permanently installed in any suitable manner and with any suitable materials. As above described, the side walls can be coated if desired with a friction-reducing coating to reduce the friction losses occurring as the water impinges on the side walls in both directions of movement of the water. In this manner, the horizontal force component of the water impinging upon the side walls is utilized to a maximum in increasing the velocity of the water as it passes along the side walls, thereby maximizing the output of the turbine generators.

It will be understood that in both the invention forms illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2, as well as Figs. 3 and 4 about to be described, the energy produced from the turbine generators can be taken off in any suitable manner. Such electrical energy can be used directly, or indirectly, with an example of indirect utilization being energy used for hydrogen conversion. In any event; utilization of the electrical energy forms no part of the present invention.

Referring, to Fig. 3, there is illustrated therein a typical installation utilizing the present invention concepts for use in rivers where the speed of flow is sufficiently ample to produce electrical energy. In the Fig. 3 form, the building structure 50 essentially forms one-half of the double side wall structure shown in Fig. 1, with the side wall 52 communicating at its inner end with cowling means 18 and turbine generator 20. The side wall 52 terminates at its outer end in an apex 54 formed cojointly with the adjoining wall 56 of the structure, with the apex 54 diverting water along the side walls and permitting unimpeded water flow past the adjoining wall 56 of the structure. Again, the longitudinal and transverse curvature of the side wall 52 is preferably identical with or similar to the configuration shown in Fig. 5 thereby producing the increased velocity and thus force as described above.

Referring to Fig. 4, there is illustrated therein a system particularly designed for rivers, tidal areas or other environments where natural currents are present. The system comprises separate structures 60 and 62, with the structure 60 including curved side walls 64 and 66, and the structure 62 having curved walls 68 and 70. Rather than diverting the flow as in the forms previously described, the structures 60 and 62 adjacently disposed as shown in Fig. 4 serve to funnel the incoming water toward the relatively narrow opening between the central curved portions of the structures. At the end of each curved wall in the central region of the system are cowling means commonly designated at 18, and a turbine generator or generators 20 are schematically shown communicating with the outlet ends of the cowling means.

As noted, the Fig. 4 system is particularly adaptable to environments where tidal action is present, and is similar in many respects in this regard to Fig. 2. However, the longitudinally and transversely curved side walls are positioned so as to be converged at their inner ends rather than being diverged as shown in Fig. 2.

It will be understood that the vertical location of the side walls 66 and 70 and will be such as to provide optimum power production, and these walls may be at a position above or below the major extent of the oppositely disposed walls 64 and 68. The same applies of course to the Fig. 2 form of the invention which also is especially designed for use in tidal environment. Where there is a difference in elevation . of the walls 66 and 70 relative to the walls 64 and 68, it will be understood that a pair of turbines, superimposed, may be employed, with one turbine servicing the water directed thereto from walls 66 and 70, and the other receiving water at high velocity traveling along the walls 64 and 68.

Although the angle of curvature of the side walls in the several forms described may not be absolutely critical, it would appear that maximum water velocity will be achieved where the longitudinal curvature is parabolic. It is difficult to calculate the overall velocity increase, due to frictional forces and the fact that water, whether in wave form or in simple flow pattern form, contacts the longitudinal side wall along virtually the entire surface of curvature thereof. However, water, traveling in the form of waves, for example, will travel along the length of the curved walls 12 and 14 (Fig. 1) in exactly the same period of time that it would take the wave to travel in a straight path from the apex 16 to a distance generally parallel with the turbine generators 20. Since the flow path along the curved side walls is obviously much longer, for example, 2-3 times as long, the speed or velocity of the water is increased proportionately. For example, if a wave is traveling at 16 feet per second, a typical speed, the water from such wave as it approaches the turbine generators will be traveling approximately 40 feed per second. The transverse curvature of the side walls serves to confine the flow path, with the transverse curvature increasing as the velocity increases so as to preclude or inhibit the water from being diverted away from the surface of the side wall. It has been demonstrated that this combination of longitudinal and transverse curvature of the side walls is of fundamental importance in the present invention.

The potential energy availability of the several forms of the present invention can be calculated without difficulty. It is of course well known that the energy of a moving mass or object is expressed as follows:

(1) E = ½ mv², where E is energy, m is mass, and v is the velocity of the mass, in this case the velocity of the fluid.

It is also rudimentary that the density (p) of a mass is defined as the amount of the mass in a specific volume, or:

(2) p = m/volume Therefore, if we assume that a moving fluid passes through an opening of a specified size, the volume of the fluid in an assumed or predetermined amount of time would be a product of the cross-sectional area (A) of the opening times the velocity (v) of the fluid times the amount of time (t), or:

(3) Volume = Avt

If we substitute equation (3) in equation (2), the resulting equation becomes :

(4) p = m/Avt, or m = pAvt If we now substitute the equivalency of m as expressed in equation (4) for m in equation (1), the following equation results :

(5) E = ½ (pAvt)v² = ½pAv³t, or E/t = ½pAv³ Since the power (P) is defined as energy per unit of time (E/t) , (6) P = ½pAv , which can also be expressed as (7) P/A = ½pv³. Based on equation (7), the amount of available energy can be readily calculated based on certain known facts and assumptions. For example, it is known that the density of water between 32° and 50.°F is lOOOKg/meters (M)³, since 1 cubic centimeter of water weighs one gram. Assuming that the fluid is moving at 30 feet per second through a turbine cowling that is 20 feet in diameter, and assuming 100% efficiency of the turbine, the calculations are as follows:

(8) P/A = ½pv³, where P is power, A is cross- sectional area, p is density and v is veolocity of fluid. Therefore, P = ½pAv³

Since by definition 1 watt - 1 joule/sec0 and a joule is a Newton meter (1 KgM/s²) , 1 watt = 1 joule/sec.

= 1 Newton meter/sec. = 1 KgM/s²(M/s) = 1 KgM²/s³ Therefore, P = 11,162,488.4 watts = 11,162.5 Kw, the total power available in water moving through a 20' diameter cowling and into the turbine generator. To calculate the power available per square meter, the total power is divided by the total area, or:

P/A, expressed in watts 1 square meter

= 382.276 watts per square meter = 382 Kw per square meter

It will therefore be seen that substantial amounts of electrical energy can be produced in accordance with the present invention. Even assuming a 60% efficiency of the trurbine, a turbine having a diameter of 10 feet (approximately 7 square meters) can produce approximately 1.56 megawatcs, sufficient co operate approximately 600 homes. In turbines of greater diameter, the energy produced will of course be significantly greater, increasing proportional to the area of the turbine. Reference is now made to Figs. 10-14, which show the basic concepts of the invention applied to apparatus for efficiently and inexpensively separating surface contaminants, for example, layers of oil, from water. This application of the invention similarly utilizes the velocity increasing characteristics which so uniquely distinguish the invention from the prior art.

The collecting vessel is generally indicated at 100 and includes a body portion 102 and a bridge 104, shown only in Figures 11 and 12. The vessel 100 can be formed of any suitable construction, and is subsequently modified to include the collecting features in accordance with the present invention. In the bow 106 of the boat, an elongated opening

108 is formed, and positioned in such opening and extending rearwardly therefrom are side walls 110, 112, 114, and 116. A flow diverter 118 extends between the walls 112 and 114, and inasmuch as the walls 112 and 114 are longitudinally rearwardly curved in addition to being transversely curved, the diverter 118 serves to split the incoming oil-water mixture into the collection areas defined by the walls 110-112 and the walls 114-116. The longitudinal, or front to rear, curvature of the walls can be seen in Figure 10, with the curvature becoming more pronounced toward the area at which adjacent walls merge. The transverse curvature of the walls tapers rearwardly from a very gradual curvature toward the diverted 118, reference being made to Fig. 13, to a more sub stantial transverse curvature toward the end of each wall, as shown in Fig. 14. Although Figs. 13 and 14 are sectional views taken along wall 114, it will be understood that the transverse curvature of walls 110, 112 and 116 is similar. Referring to Fig. 11, the opening defined by each pairs of walls 110-112 and 114-116 is closed at the top and bottom by walls 120 and 122. As noted in this figure, the rearwardly extending walls 120 and 122 taper downwardly and upwardly, respectively, whereby the incoming mixture is in effect funneled through conduits 124 and 126. The diameter of each conduit at the forward end thereof is similar in cross-sectional area to the area bounded by the inner end of the side walls and the top and bottom walls 120 and 122. The conduits 122 and 126 extend generally horizontally from the collecting area and then upwardly as indicated at 126' in Figure 11 so as to clear the deck of the vessel adjacent the stern. The conduits thereafter assume a generally horizontal orientation as shown at 127 prior to merging into a single conduit 130, best seen in Figure 10.

The conduit 130 discharges into a separator generally indicated at 132 which is mounted on a barge generally indicated at 134. The separator per se forms no part of the present invention, and can comprise a centrigal separator of commercially available construction whereby the heavier water gravitates to the outside of the separator and the oil remains in the center or vortex portion of the separator. The oil is discharged from the separator through a discharge pipe 136 into a storage vessel 138, and a water discharge pipe 140 communicates with the separator relatively adjacent the bottom thereof for discharging water from the separator overboard. The oil is thus collected in the storage tank 138 and, when full, can be pumped therefrom to condition the apparatus for further separation and collection. The vessel 100 is powered by twin engines commonly designated at E, each of which drives a propeller commonly designated at 150 in conventional fashion. The type of engines provided form no part of the present invention, although they are preferably of sufficient size to propel the vessel at 15 miles per hour, or greater.

The barge 134 can be towed from the vessel 100 by tow lines commonly designated at 152 or by other forms of connection if desired. Although it will be understood that the barge 134 could be constructed and arranged to serve as the driving vessel, with the vessel 100 in effect being pushed, it is preferred that that vessel 100 be driven, and the barge 134 be towed. When the vessel is not employed for oil collection purposes, the opening 108 can be covered by means of a plurality of cylinders commonly designated at 160, and gates 162 associated with each cylinder. As shown in Fig. 10, preferably 4 cylinders and associ ated gates are provided, with the gates being shown lowered in Fig. 11 so as to close the openings. When the vessel is prepared for collecting the oil-wacer mixture, the gates 162 are raised by the cylinders 160 thereby affording access to the scoop opening 108. Hydraulic cylinders commonly designated at 164 are mounted on the top wall 120, with the rods 166 of the cylinders engaging the top and bottom walls 120 and 122. By proper regulation of the cylinders 164, the elevation of the walls 120 and 122 can thus be adjusted so as to position the opening 108 in an optimum elevation for collecting the oil-water mixture.

As noted, an important feature of the present invention is the manner in which the mixture is accelerated as it passes along the curved walls 110-116. It is fundamental that water will travel the length of the curved walls 110-116 in exactly the same period of time that it would take the water to travel in a straight path from the tip of the diverter 118 to a rearward point parallel to the front ends of the conduits 124 and 126. Since the full path along the curved side walls is significantly longer, the speed or velocity of the water is increased proportionately. The water is of course directed into the opening 108 at a velocity equal to the velocity of the vessel. It is the transverse and longitudinally curved surfaces which produce the acceleration or increased velocity of the water, as opposed, for example, to simply straight walls which direct the water into collecting conduits. Although the precise curvature longitudinally and transversely may not be absolutely critical, it appears, as above noted, that maximum velocity will be achieved where the longitudinal curvature is parabolic. It is difficult to calculate the overall velocity increase of the water, due to frictional forces and the fact that water contacts the longitudinal side walls along virtually the entire surface of curvature thereof.

As explained, it is preferable to propel the vessel 100 at speeds of 15 miles per hour, or greater. Such speeds serve two advantageous purposes. First, the production or quantity of oil-water mixture treated is increased since the quantity of mixture collected is obviously proportional to the speed of the vessel. Secondly, the speed of the vessel, and consequently the relative speed between the water and the vessel, forms the base for increase velocity by virtue of the transverse and longitudinal curvature of the walls 110-116. At such speeds, and without the aid of pumps, the mixture flows through the conduits 124, 126, 126', 127 and 130 to the separator 132. The vessel can therefore be manufactured or modified at minimal expense, with only the opening 108, side walls 110-116, and conduits 124, 126, and 126' requiring installation. Therefore, an ordinary power boat can be quickly and inexpensively converted to additionally function as a vessel for collecting oil-water mixtures resulting from oil spills. When the so converted vessel is not to be used for that purpose, the gates 162 can be moved to a closed position, and the vessel used for normal recreational purposes.

The side walls 110-116 can be formed of any suitable material, with fiberglass being one example. Fiberglass provides a low friction surface, thereby reducing friction loss. If wood or metal are used for the side walls, the exposed surfaces thereof are preferably coated with a friction-reducing material. The conduits 124, 126, 126', 127 and 130 can likewise be formed of any suitable material, also preferably friction reducing to the extent possible.

Although barge 134 has been illustrated in the application drawings and described above for providing on-site separating and storing capacity, it will be apparent that other separating and collecting apparatus could be provided as well. In addition, if the oil spill is relatively adjacent the shore, the oil-water mixture could be directed, with possible pumping assistance, to separating and collecting installations on shore.

The quantity of oil-water mixture capable of being processed obviously depends on the size and speed of the vessel. However, at a speed of 15 miles per hour, the preferred minimum speed of operation, and with each conduit 124 and 126 being one foot in diamter, approximately twenty-five (25) tons per minute of oil-water mixture can be collected and processed. The operating capacity of the centrifugal separator must obviously be commensurate with the volume treated. As above noted,the vessel can, if desired, be transported to'the site by airplane or helicopter, an obvious advantage when compared with relatively large collecting apparatus presently utilized for the same purpose. Although the above description relates primarily to treatment of oil spills, it can also be employed to treat other surface located pollutants.

Claims

I CLAIM :

1. Apparatus for increasing the velocity. of water or liquids containing water, comprising: a) structural means interposed in the path of water or liquid flow, said water flowing at a variable velocity as a result of relative movement between said water and said structural means, said structural means including at least one side wall, said side wall being longitudinally curved from a diverting point at the outer end thereof to a gradually flattened curve at the inner end thereof wherein a vertical plane through the edges of said wall is generally more perpendicular to such flow path, with the curvature of said wall being continuous from said outer to said inner end thereof, said wall also being transversely curved from a generally planar surface at the outer end thereof to a curvature approaching circular at the inner end thereof, whereby said water or liquid is substantially increased in velocity as it passes along said wall, and b) means for receiving and utilizing said water or liquid at such increased velocity.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is utilized for electric power generation, and said structural means is substantially fixed for contact by a body of flowing water or liquid, and further comprising cowling means at the inner end of said side wall, said cowling means being generally conical in shape, tapering from an enlarged end at the juncture thereof with said side wall to a relatively smaller, opposite end, and turbine generator means at said opposite end of said cowling means, whereby water is diverted by said side wall at the outer end thereof, with said water increasing in velocity and thus force as it traverses the longitudi dinally and transversely curved side wall, with the velocity of the water being further increased during passage through said cowling means prior to reaching said turbine generator.

3. The water power generator of claim 2 wherein said cowling means comprises a separate cowling member located at the inner end of said side wall, the cross section of said side wall immediately preceding said cowling means being generally circular in cross section and closed, thereby directing the entire water flow to said cowling member.

4. The water power generator of. claim 3 wherein filter means is associated with said cowling member relatively adjacent the outer and inner ends thereof, whereby debris and the like traversing the side wall is filtered out prior to water flow into the turbine generator.

5. The water power generator of claim 2 wherein said structural means comprises a second side wall the other end of which merges with the outer end of said first side wall to form an apex, with said second side wall being similarly longitudinally and transversely curved, cowling means located at the inner end of said second side wall, said cowling means being generally conical in shape, tapering from an enlarged end at the juncture thereof with said second side wall to a relatively smaller, opposite end, and turbine generator means at said opposite end of said cowling means associated with said second side wall, whereby water flow is diverted at the apex of said structure along each of said side walls, with the longitudinal and transverse curvature of each side wall, and the configuration of each cowling means, increasing the velocity of the flow of the water prior to entering and driving said turbine generators.

6. The water power generator of claim 2 wherein said structure further includes a second side wall generally similar in longitudinal and transverse configuration to said first side wall, with the outer end of said second side wall merging with the outer end of said first side wall to form an apex for diverting water flow along said side wall, cowling means positioned at the end of said second side wall, and turbine generator means communicating with the outlet end of said cowling means, said structure further comprising third and fourth side wall members oppositely positioned on said structure relative to said first and second side walls, the inner, ends of said third and fourth side walls merging to form an apex for diverting the water flow, with said third and fourth side walls being similarly longitudinally and transversely curved so as to increase the velocity of water flowing along said walls, and cowling means and turbine generator means at the inner end of each of said third and fourth side walls, whereby in a tide environment, water flow during one condition of tide engages said first and second side walls for driving the turbine generators located at the inner ends of said first and second side walls, and during the other tide condition water flew in the opposite direction contacts said third and fourth side walls for driving the turbine generators located at the inner end of said third and fourth side walls.

7. The water power generator of claim 2 wherein said structure is mounted in said body of water so that the outer end of said side wall serves as a diverter, with a portion of the water flow being diverted along said side wall as described, with the water not so diverted flowing unimpeded downstream past said structural means.

8. The water power generator of claim 2 further including a second side wall having a longitudinal and transverse configuration similar to said at least one side wall, with the outer end of said second side wall being spaced from said first side wall and the curvature of said side wall being such as to form a generally funnel-shaped opening for receiving water flow, cowling means associated with said second side wall portion and turbine generator means located at the outlet of said -cowling means, and third and fourth side wall portions opposite said first and second side walls, with said third and fourth side walls similarly collectively defining a generally funnel-shaped opening for the water flow, and being longitudinally and transversely curved as aforesaid, and cowling means and turbine generator means associated respectively with said third and fourth side wall portions. whereby, in a tide environment, water flow is directed along the first and second side walls and thereafter through said turbine generators associated therewith, and in the opposite tide condition water flow is directed along said third and fourth side walls toward said cowling means and turbine generators associated with said third and fourth side walls.

9. The water power generator of claim 8 wherein said structure comprised of said first, second, third and fourth side walls is positioned in a body of water so as to divert a portion of the water flow, with the water not intercepted by said structure flowing unimpeded past the same, thereby especially adapting the structure to use in rivers where tidal conditions exist.

10. The water power generator of claims 5 or 6 or 7 or 8 wherein said cowling means comprises a separate cowling member positioned at the innermost end of the associated side wall, with the side wall immediately in front of said cowling member being generally circular in cross section and closed, and filter means associated with each said cowling member for filtering out debris and the like from the water prior to passage of the same through said turbine generators.

11. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said apparatus is used for collecting and removing a pollutant-water mixture from the surface of a body of water, and further including a collecting vessel, and means for propelling said vessel through said body of water, said vessel being provided with a transversely elongated opening in the bow thereof at the surface of the water, said structural means being mounted in said opening and interposed in the path of water flow, said structural means including first and second side walls, said second side wall also being longitudinally curved transversely inwardly from its outer end to a gradually sharpened curve at the inner end thereof wherein a vertical plane through the edge of said second wall is generally more perpendicular to such flow path, with the longitudinal curvature of said second wall being continuous from said outer to said inner end thereof, said second wall also being transversely curved from a generally vertical planar surface at the outer end thereof to a generally semicircular curvature at the inner ends thereof, the inner ends of said one and said second walls being spaced to form an exit opening for said mixture, top and bottom walls defining the vertical dimension of said opening and defining, with said side walls, a funnel-shaped collecting area terminating at said exit opening, conduit means communicating with said exit opening and extending rearwardly from said vessel for receiving said mixture and conveying the same, without further assistance, to separator means for separating said pollutant from said water, said separator means having associated therewith means for discharging overboard said water after separating and collecting said separated pollutant.

12. The apparatus of claim 11 further including third and fourth side walls mounted in said elongated opening in said bow to one side of said first and second side walls, each of said third and fourth side walls being longitudinally curved transversely inwardly from its outer end to a gradually sharpened curve at the inner end thereof wherein a vertical plane through the edges of said walls is generally more perpendicular to such flow paths, with the longitudinal curvature of said third and fourth walls being continuous/from said outer to said inner ends thereof, said third and fourth walls also being transversely curved from a generally vertical planar surface at the outer ends thereof to a generally semi-circular curvature at the inner ends thereof, the inner ends of said third and fourth walls being spaced to form an exit opening for said mixture, said adjacently disposed walls of said first, second , third , and fourth side walls being separated by a diverter member which forms the outermost ends of said adjacent walls and which serves to divert the pollutant-water mixture into the collecting area defined by said first and second or said third and fourth side walls, a further funnel-shaped collecting area terminating at said exit openings, and conduit means communicating with said exit opening from said third and fourth side walls and extending rearwardly from said vessel for receiving said mixture and conveying the same, without further assistance, to said separator means.

13. The apparatus of claim 12 wherein said conduit means extending rearwardly from said exit openings extend generally parallel and substantially horizontal to the water surface to a point generally intermediate the length of the vessel, and then are directed upwardly above the plane of the deck and rearwardly to said separating means.

14. The apparatus of claim 11 or 12 wherein said pollutant is oil and said separator comprises a centrifugal separator mounted on a barge towed by said vessel, said centrifugal separator functioning to separate said oil from said water by virtue of the different specific gravity of said oil and water, and wherein said means for discharging said water comprises a pipe communicating with said separator for receiving water therefrom and discharging the same overboard to the body of water adjacent the barge.

15. The apparatus of claim 14 wherein said means for collecting said separated oil comprises a storage tank mounted on said barge, and means communicating said centrifugal separator with said storage tank for conveying oil to said tank.

16. The apparatus of claim 11 further including means associated with said opening in the bow of said vessel for closing said opening, thereby conditioning said vessel for other uses.

17. The apparatus of claim 11 further including means operatively connected to said bottom wall of said opening and said bow for moving said bottom wall, and thus said top and side walls, thereby to vary the elevation of said opening in said bow to maximize flow of pollutant-water mixture into said bow opening.