GB2604674A

GB2604674A - Energy harvesting device, system and method of manufacture

Info

Publication number: GB2604674A
Application number: GB2113126.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Velayutham Karthikeyan
Original assignee: Katrick Technologies Ltd
Current assignee: Katrick Technologies Ltd
Priority date: 2021-03-11
Filing date: 2021-09-14
Publication date: 2022-09-14
Anticipated expiration: 2041-09-14
Also published as: GB2604674B; GB202113126D0; GB2604639A; GB202103390D0

Abstract

An energy harvesting device comprises a duct with an inlet opening, an outlet opening and one or more foils 13, 25 located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or more foils are orientated towards the inlet opening. The energy harvesting device also comprises a generator to convert movement of the one or more foils into electricity. The generator comprises one or more vibrational members and an energy conversion means. The one or more vibrational members are configured to exhibit both pivoting motion and the one or more foils are configured to exhibit a rotation motion. The foils may be aerofoils or hydrofoils. The energy harvesting device provides an alternative device for generating renewable energy with numerous advantages. The device harvests vibrational energy, can be optimised to operate over a broad range of fluid flow parameters, has minimal negative environmental impact and is suitable for numerous locations and applications.

Description

1 Energy Harvesting Device, System and Method of Manufacture 3 The present invention relates to an energy harvesting device, system and method of 4 manufacture. In particular, the energy harvesting device is suitable for harvesting energy from a fluid flow, such as wind, to produce renewable energy.

7 Background to the Invention

9 A conventional horizontal-axis wind turbine known in the art typically comprises three blades. The wind turbine converts the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical motion 11 according to the principle of aerodynamic lift. In operation, the blades rotate and drive a 12 generator which converts the mechanical motion into electricity.

14 Whilst wind turbines are widely used in the energy industry to offer a source of renewable energy, there are numerous disadvantages. Wind turbines can only operate within a 16 narrow wind speed window. For example, if the wind speed is too high there is a risk of 17 damaging the wind turbines. Conversely if the wind speed is too low, then there may not 18 be enough aerodynamic lift to rotate the blades.

1 Commercial wind farms typically comprise large wind turbines which can be over 100 m 2 tall. Whilst large wind turbines are more efficient than smaller scale micro wind turbines, 3 the large wind turbines typically dominate the surrounding landscape and have a negative 4 aesthetic impact on the environment. There are further negative environmental consequences as wind turbines can affect the surrounding wildlife. For example, the 6 blades of the wind turbines can kill birds.

8 In addition, such large wind turbines are not suitable to be located in urban landscapes, by 9 motorways and especially not near airports as they tend to produce a significant turbulent flow in the wake of the blades.

12 Summary of the Invention

14 It is an object of an aspect of the present invention to provide an energy harvesting device that obviates or at least mitigates one or more of the aforesaid disadvantages of the 16 energy harvesting devices known in the art.

18 According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy harvesting 19 device comprising: a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; 21 one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or more foils is 22 orientated towards the inlet opening; and 23 a generator employed to convert movement of the one or more foils into electricity.

Preferably, the inlet opening is located on a first surface of the energy harvesting device 26 and the outlet opening is located on a second surface of the energy harvesting device.

28 Preferably, the second surface substantially opposes the first surface. Alternatively, the 29 second surface is substantially tangential to the first surface.

31 Alternatively, the inlet opening is located in a first region of a first surface and the outlet 32 opening is located in a second region of the first surface.

34 Most preferably, the one or more foils comprises a thickness variation in a span direction of the one or more foils. The one or more foils may comprise both positive and negative 1 cambered cross sections. The one or more foils creates counter interacting lift and drag 2 forces inducing vibrations, more specifically, flutter vibrations.

4 Preferably, the one or more foils comprises a thickness variation in a chord direction of the one or more foils.

7 Optionally, the one or more foils comprises one or more weights. The one or more 8 weights are uniformly or non-uniformly distributed within an internal structure of the one or 9 more foils.

11 Preferably, the energy harvesting device further comprises a generator housing. The 12 generator housing may comprise a cone-like portion protruding from the first surface.

14 Optionally, the cone-like portion comprises one or more fins. The fins may comprise discontinuous vertices. The fins induce turbulent fluid flow.

17 Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises one or more flaps. The one or 18 more flaps are located at the inlet opening of the duct and or at a trailing edge of the foil.

19 The flaps induce turbulent fluid flow.

21 Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises a mesh across the inlet 22 opening and or outlet opening. The mesh induces turbulent fluid flow and or acts as a 23 barrier protecting, for example, the foil.

Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises flow restrictors. The flow 26 restrictors are located within the duct. The flow restrictors narrow or widen the duct. The 27 flow restrictors induce turbulent fluid flow.

29 Most preferably, the generator comprises one or more vibrational apparatus and one or more energy conversion means.

32 Preferably, the one or more vibrational apparatus comprises one or more vibrational 33 lenses. Each of the one or more vibrational lenses comprises at least two focusing 34 members, each of the at least two focusing members having a first end for attachment to a foil and a second end, wherein the at least two focusing members are arranged such that 1 the separation between the focusing members decreases from the first ends towards the 2 second ends.

4 Optionally, each of the one or more vibrational lens comprises a plurality of focusing members wherein two or more foils may be attached to each of the one or more vibrational 6 lenses.

8 Preferably, the first ends of the at least two focusing members are attached to the internal 9 structure the foil. Alternatively, the first ends of the at least two focusing members are attached to a surface of the foil, more specifically a first side of the foil.

12 Preferably, the at least two focusing members merge towards the second end of the 13 vibrational lens. The at least two focusing members may merge before or after passing 14 through the generator housing.

16 Preferably, the at least two focusing members pass through the generator housing by 17 means of a bearing.

19 Most preferably, the energy conversion means is located at the second end of the vibrational lens.

22 Preferably, the energy conversion means is a magnet and coil.

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

27 Alternatively, the energy conversion means is a piezoelectric crystal.

29 Most preferably, the energy harvesting device further comprises two or more ducts each of the two or more ducts having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. Preferably each of 31 the two or more ducts comprise one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading 32 edge of the one or more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening. Optionally, the 33 energy harvesting device comprises a maximum of eighteen ducts.

Preferably, the two or more ducts are located about a generator housing.

2 Optionally, the two or more ducts form one or more branch members for the generator 3 housing.

Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises a lens. The lens is suitable for 6 focusing solar radiation and inducing convection air flow.

8 Optionally, the energy harvesting device further comprises a layer of noise insulation.

Alternatively, the one or more vibrational apparatus comprises one or more vibrational 11 members. Each vibrational member comprises a first end for attachment to a foil and a 12 second end located at which is an energy conversion means.

14 Preferably, the vibrational member is configured to pivot about a bearing located between the first and second ends of the vibrational member. Preferably, the vibrational member 16 may pivot between 1° and 89° either side of a central pivot position. Preferably, the 17 vibrational member may pivot between 1° and 30° either side of the central pivot position.

18 Most preferably, the vibrational member may pivot between 1° and 150 either side of the 19 central pivot position.

21 Preferably, in operation fluid flow about the foil generates lift which induces a pivoting 22 motion of the vibrational member.

24 Preferably, a first pivot stop and a second pivot stop limits the pivoting motion of the vibrational member.

27 Preferably, each foil is configured to rotate about an axis of the vibrational member. The 28 foil may rotate between 1° and 89° either side of a central rotation position. Most 29 preferably, the foil member may rotate between 1" and 35° either side of a central rotation position.

32 Preferably, in operation, the weight and or inertia of the foil generates a rotation force 33 which induces a rotation motion of the foil. The rotation motion changes, more specifically 34 reverses, the angle of attack of the foil.

1 Preferably, a first rotation stop and a second rotation stop limit the rotation motion of the 2 foil.

4 Preferably, the energy conversion means located at the second end of the vibrational member exhibits only a pivoting motion and not a rotation motion. The rotation motion is 6 isolated to the combination of the vibrational member and the foil.

8 Preferably, the pivot motion drives the energy conversion means and the rotation motion 9 assists the pivot motion.

11 Preferably, the energy conversion means comprises a rack located at the second end of 12 the vibrational member. The rack is orientated and positioned to engage with a pinion.

13 The pinion is connected directly or indirectly by an axel to an electric generator. In 14 operation, the pivoting motion displaces the rack which rotates the pinion, driving the electric generator.

17 Preferably, the energy harvesting device is a wind energy harvesting device. The fluid 18 flow is wind. The one or more foils comprise one or more aerofoils.

Additionally, or alternatively, the energy harvesting device is a water flow energy 21 harvesting device. The fluid flow is a water flow. The one or more foils comprise one or 22 more hydrofoils.

24 According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy harvesting system comprising two or more energy harvesting devices in accordance with 26 the first aspect of the present invention.

28 Preferably, the two or more energy harvesting devices are stacked side-by-side and or 29 upon each other.

31 Embodiments of the second aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement 32 the preferred or optional features of the first aspect of the invention or vice versa.

34 According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device comprising: 1 providing a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; 2 providing one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one 3 or more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening; and 4 providing a generator to convert movement of the one or more foils into electricity.

6 Most preferably, the method of manufacturing a wind energy harvesting device further 7 comprises characterising an air flow.

9 Preferably, characterising a fluid flow comprises characterising the mean fluid flow speed, fluid flow speed distribution, turbulence, fluid flow shear profile, distribution of fluid flow 11 direction and long-term temporal fluid flow variations.

13 Most preferably, the method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device further 14 comprises determining the optimum parameters of the fluid energy harvesting device for use with the fluid flow.

17 Preferably, determining the optimum parameters of the energy harvesting device 18 comprises determining: the dimensions of the fluid energy harvesting device; the 19 dimension and shape of the duct, the shape and structure of the foil; the dimension, shape, material composition, orientation and arrangement of the vibrational apparatus; the 21 relative positioning of two or more foils within the duct; the arrangement and configuration 22 of fins, flaps, mesh and flow restrictors; and the arrangement and configuration of the 23 generator.

Embodiments of the third aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement the 26 preferred or optional features of the first and or second aspects of the invention or vice 27 versa.

29 According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a foil comprising a thickness variation in a chord and or span direction.

32 Preferably, the foil comprises both positive and negative cambered cross sections.

34 The foil creates counter interacting lift and drag forces inducing vibrations, more specifically, flutter vibrations.

2 Embodiments of the fourth aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement the 3 preferred or optional features of the first, second and or third aspects of the invention or 4 vice versa.

6 According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy harvesting 7 device comprising: 8 a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; 9 one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening; and 11 a generator comprising one or more vibrational lenses and an energy conversion means, 12 the generator employed to convert movement of the one or more foils into electricity, 13 wherein the one or more vibrational lenses focus vibrations from movement of the one or 14 more foils to the energy conversion means.

16 Embodiments of the fifth aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement the 17 preferred or optional features of the first, second, third and or fourth aspects of the 18 invention or vice versa.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of 21 manufacturing an energy harvesting device comprising: 22 providing a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; 23 providing one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one 24 or more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening; and providing a generator comprising one or more vibrational lenses and an energy 26 conversion means, the generator employed to convert movement of the one or more 27 foils into electricity, 28 wherein the one or more vibrational lenses focus vibrations from movement of the 29 one or more foils to the energy conversion means.

31 Embodiments of the sixth aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement the 32 preferred or optional features of the first, second, third, fourth and or fifth aspects of the 33 invention or vice versa.

1 According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided an energy 2 harvesting device comprising: 3 a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; 4 one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening; and 6 a generator comprising one or more vibrational members and an energy conversion 7 means, the generator employed to convert movement of the one or more foils into 8 electricity, 9 wherein the one or more vibrational members are configured to exhibit a pivoting motion which drives the energy conversion means and the one or more foils are configured to 11 exhibit a rotation motion which assists the pivot motion.

13 Embodiments of the seventh aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement 14 the preferred or optional features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and or sixth aspects of the invention or vice versa.

17 According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of 18 manufacturing an energy harvesting device comprising: 19 providing a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; providing one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one 21 or more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening; and 22 providing a generator comprising one or more vibrational members and an energy 23 conversion means, the generator employed to convert movement of the one or more 24 foils into electricity, wherein the one or more vibrational members are configured to exhibit a pivoting 26 motion which drives the energy conversion means and the one or more foils are 27 configured exhibit a rotation motion which assists the pivot motion.

29 Embodiments of the eight aspect of the invention may comprise features to implement the preferred or optional features of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and or seventh 31 aspects of the invention or vice versa.

1 Brief Descriotion of Drawinas 3 There will now be described, by way of example only, various embodiments of the 4 invention with reference to the drawings, of which: 6 Figure 1 presents a perspective view of an energy harvesting device in accordance with an 7 embodiment of the present invention; 9 Figure 2 presents a front view of the energy harvesting device of Figure 1; ii Figures 3 presents a schematic cross-sectional view of the energy harvesting device of 12 Figure 1; 14 Figure 4 presents a perspective view of a duct of an alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of Figure 1; 17 Figure 5 presents a perspective view of a foil of the energy harvesting device of Figure 1; 19 Figure 6 presents a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the foil of Figure 5; 21 Figure 7 presents a schematic view of (a) a positive cambered foil cross-section and (b) a 22 negative cambered foil cross-section of the foil of Figure 6; 24 Figure 8 presents a schematic cross-section view of an alternative embodiment of the foil of Figure 5; 27 Figure 9 presents a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the foil of 28 Figure 5; Figure 10 presents a schematic cross-sectional view of a generator of the energy 31 harvesting device of Figure 1; 33 Figure 11 presents a perspective view of an energy harvesting system comprising the 34 energy harvesting device of Figure 1; 1 Figures 12 presents a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the energy 2 harvesting device of Figure 1; 4 Figure 13 presents a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the energy harvesting device of Figure 1; 7 Figure 14 presents a perspective view of a yet another further alternative embodiment of 8 the energy harvesting device of Figure 1; Figures 15 presents a perspective views of a further alternative embodiment of the energy 11 harvesting device of Figure 1; 13 Figure 16 presents a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the energy 14 harvesting device of Figure 1; 16 Figure 17 presents a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the energy 17 harvesting device of Figure 1; 19 Figure 18 presents a perspective view of a foil and a vibrational member of the energy harvesting device of Figure 17 in (a) a first position, (b) a second position, (c) a third 21 position and (d) a fourth position; 23 Figure 19 presents a perspective view of an energy conversion means of the energy 24 harvesting device of Figure 17; and 26 Figure 20 presents a flow chart of the method of manufacturing the energy harvesting 27 device of Figure 1.

29 In the description which follows, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale 31 and the proportions of certain parts have been exaggerated to better illustrate details and 32 features of embodiments of the invention.

1 Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments 3 An explanation of the present invention will now be described with reference to Figures 1 4 to 20.

6 Energy Harvesting Device 8 Figures 1 and 2 depict an energy harvesting device 1 a. More specifically, the energy 9 harvesting device la is suitable for harvesting energy from a fluid flow such as wind, tidal flows or even a river flow. The energy harvesting device la comprises a first surface 2a 11 and an opposing second surface 3a. The first and second surfaces 2a, 3a are both 12 perpendicular to and centred about a central axis 4.

14 Generator Housing 16 The energy harvesting device la further comprises a generator housing 5a centred about 17 the central axis 4. The generator housing 5a comprises an internal portion 6 and a cone- 18 like portion 7, as can clearly be seen in Figure 3. The internal portion 6 of the generator 19 housing 5 extends between the first and second surfaces 2a, 3a and has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. It will be appreciated the internal portion 6 of the generator 21 housing 5 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape which can vary between the first 22 and second surfaces 2a, 3a. The cone-like portion 7 of the generator housing 5a is a 23 continuation of the internal portion 6 that protrudes from the first surface 2a and tapers 24 towards the central axis 4.

26 Ducts 28 The energy harvesting device la further comprises ducts 8a located circumferentially 29 about the generator housing 5a, as clearly shown by Figures 1 and 2. The ducts 8a take the form of passageways between the first and second surfaces 2a, 3a suitable for 31 channelling a fluid flow 9 through the energy harvesting device la. It will be appreciated 32 the fluid flow 9 could take the form of a gas flow or a liquid flow.

34 The cone-like portion 7 of the generator housing 5a diverts the fluid flow 9 towards the ducts 8a. It has been found preferable for efficient operation for the energy harvesting 1 device la as depicted in Figure 1 and 2 to comprise no more than eighteen ducts 8a 2 located about the generator housing 5a.

4 Each duct 8a comprises an inlet opening 10 on the first surface 2a and a corresponding outlet opening 11 on the second surface 3a. As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the ducts 6 8 comprise a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape. The ducts 8a are orientated 7 such that the semi-major axis of the elliptical cross-sectional shape extends radially from 8 the central axis 4. It will be appreciated the ducts 8a may have any suitable cross- 9 sectional shape.

11 As shown in Figures 1 and 2, each duct 8a has a different relative size according to the 12 location of the duct 8a on the first surface 2a. As an alternative, it will be appreciated each 13 duct 8a may all be uniform in size.

Figures 2 and 3 show that the cross-sectional shape of the ducts 8a changes in the 16 direction of the central axis 4. In other words, the cross-sectional shape changes between 17 the first and second surfaces 2a, 3a. This variation of the cross-sectional shape of the 18 ducts 8a can be configured to modify the velocity of the fluid flow 9 through the energy 19 harvesting device la. As an alternative, the ducts 8a may comprise a uniform cross-sectional shape.

22 Figures 1 and 3 show that the ducts 8a comprise optional external portions 12 protruding 23 from the second surface 3. The external portions 12 are configured to divert the fluid flow 24 9 exiting the energy harvesting device la from the outlet openings 11.

26 Foils 28 The energy harvesting device la further comprises one or more foils 13, located within 29 each duct 8a, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. More specifically, the one or more foils 13 take the form of one or more aerofoils or one or more hydrofoils depending if the fluid flow 31 9 is a gas flow or a liquid flow.

33 Figure 5 depicts a foil 13 and defines several terms used to describe the shape of the foil 34 13. The foil 13 comprises a leading edge 14 and a trailing edge 15. The leading edge 14, or foremost edge, is the first foil surface to meet an incident fluid flow 9. As such, the 1 leading edge 14 separates the incident fluid flow 9. The trailing edge 15, or rearmost 2 edge, is where the fluid flow 9 separated by the leading edge 14 meets.

4 The foil 13 also comprises a chord 16 and span 17. The chord 16 is the distance between the leading and trailing edges 14, 15. Whereas the span 17 is the distance between a first 6 side 18 and a second side 19 of the foil 13. In addition, a chord line 20 is defined as an 7 imaginary straight line connecting the leading and trailing edge 14, 15.

9 The foil 13 further comprises an upper surface 21 and a lower surface 22. The relative curvature of the upper and lower surfaces 19, 21 is parameterised by a camber line 23 11 which is a line equidistant between the upper and lower surfaces 19,21 extending across 12 the chord direction of the foil 13. The foil 13 comprises a uniform cross section across the 13 span 17.

Figure 3 depicts the foil 13 mounted within a duct 8a. The foil 13 is orientated such that 16 the leading edge 14 is located towards the inlet opening 10 and the trailing edge 15 is 17 located towards the outlet opening 11. In other words, the chord direction of the aerofoil 18 13 is substantially parallel to the central axis 4.

In operation, an fluid flow enters the duct 13 through the inlet opening 10, flows past the 21 foil 13 inducing aerodynamic or hydrodynamic forces and then exits the duct 13 through 22 the outlet opening 11. The foil 13 exhibits movement, vibrations and or specifically flutter 23 vibrations, and it is the kinetic energy from these vibrations that the energy harvesting 24 device la captures, focuses, transmits, converges and or converts into electrical energy.

26 When aerodynamic or hydrodynamic forces deflect a foil 13 a restoring force acts to return 27 the foil 13 to its original shape due to the elasticity of the foil 13 structure. Flutter is a 28 dynamic instability caused by positive feedback between the fluid dynamic forces and the 29 restoring force of the foil 13. Whilst foils 13 known in the art are typically designed to avoid flutter, these vibrations are desirable in the energy harvesting device la as it is mechanical 31 vibrational energy the present invention converts into useful electrical energy.

33 Whilst the foil 13 of Figure 5 can exhibit flutter vibrations, it is possible and preferable to 34 enhance these flutter vibrations by: 1 a) modifying the shape and structure of the foil 13 to induce and or amplify counter 2 interacting lift; and or 3 b) adjusting the fluid flow 9 to, for example, induce a turbulent fluid flow 24.

(a) Modified Foil 7 Figure 6 depicts a modified foil 25a comprising a thickness variation in the span direction.

8 The modified foil 25a comprises both positive and negative cambered cross sections 26, 9 27. A positive cambered cross section 26 results in a lift force 28 and is defined by the camber line 23 being located between the upper surface 21 and chord line 20, as depicted 11 in Figure 7a. A negative cambered cross section 27 results in a drag force 29 and is 12 defined by the camber line 23 being located between the lower surface 22 and the chord 13 line 20, as can be seen by Figure 7b. The modified foil 25a exhibits counter interacting lift 14 and drag forces 28, 29 inducing vibrations and or specifically flutter vibrations. The modified foil 25a of Figure 6 exhibits vibrations about an axis parallel to the chord 16 direction.

18 As an additional or alternative feature, the modified foil 25a may further comprise weights 19 30 to induce and or amplify the vibrations. The modified foil 25a is hollow and comprises an internal structure 31. The weights 30 depicted in Figure 6 are non-uniformly distributed 21 within the internal structure 31 of the foil 25a across the chord and span directions.

23 Figure 8 depicts an alternative modified foil 25b comprising a thickness variation in the 24 chord direction. This results in lift and drag forces 28, 29 across the chord direction of the foil 25b inducing vibrations about an axis parallel to the span direction.

27 Figure 9 depicts a further alternative modified foil 25c comprising thickness variations in 28 both the span and chord direction resulting in a combination of vibrations about axes 29 parallel to the chord and span directions.

31 (b) Adjusting fluid flow 33 As an additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting device 1 comprises fins 32 as 34 depicted in Figure 3 protruding from the cone-like portion 7 of the generator housing 5a.

1 The fins 32 comprise discontinuous vertices 33 disrupting the smooth laminar flow of the 2 incident fluid flow 9 and creating turbulent fluid flow 24.

4 As a further additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting device la comprises flaps 34. As depicted in Figure 3, the flaps 34 are located at the inlet opening 10 of the 6 duct 8a and or, as depicted in Figure 4, the flaps 34 are located at the trailing edge of the 7 aerofoil 13. The flaps 34 pivot to divert and disrupt the fluid flow 9 creating turbulent fluid 8 flow 24.

As another additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting device la comprises a 11 mesh 35 across the inlet opening 10 of the duct 8a as depicted in Figure 4. The mesh 35 12 is uniform yet it will be appreciated the mesh 35 could instead be non-uniform. The fluid 13 flow 9 entering the inlet opening 10 of the duct 8a passes through the mesh 35. The mesh 14 35 disrupts the fluid flow 9 to create turbulent fluid flow 24. The mesh 35 has dual functionality in that it also acts as a barrier protecting the internal components of the 16 energy harvesting device 1 a. As such, it will be appreciated the energy harvesting device 17 la may also comprises a mesh across the outlet opening 11 the duct 8a.

19 As an additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting device la comprises flow restrictors 36 located within the duct 8a to narrow (or widen) the cross-sectional shape of 21 the passageway, as depicted in Figure 4. The flow restrictors 36 act as a bottle neck 22 increasing the velocity of the fluid flow 9. The flow restrictors 36 disrupts the fluid flow 9 to 23 create turbulent fluid flow 24.

Generator and Vibrational Apparatus 27 The energy harvesting device la further comprises a generator 37 employed to convert 28 movement of the one or more foils 13, 25, in other words the vibrations, into electricity.

The generator 37 comprises a one or more vibrational apparatus in the form of one or 31 more vibrational lenses 38 and an energy conversion means 39. Each vibrational lens 38 32 captures, transmits, converges and or focuses vibrations from one or more foils 13, 25a, 33 25b, 25c towards the energy conversion means 39 located within the generator housing 5.

34 The vibrational lens 38 has a dual purpose as is also a means for mounting each foil 13, 25a, 25b, 25c within the plurality of ducts 8.

2 The vibrational lens 38 may be of a type as described in the applicant's co-pending UK 3 patent publication number 0B2586067 and UK patent application number 0B2008912.4.

4 As depicted in Figures 3 and 4, the vibrational lens 38 comprises at least two focusing members 40. Each of the at least two focusing members 40 having a first end 41 for 6 attachment to a vibrational source, in this case the foil 13, 25a, 25b, 25c, and a second 7 end 42. The at least two focusing members 40 are arranged such that the separation 8 between the focusing members 40 decreases from the first ends 41 towards the second 9 ends 42.

11 As can be seen in Figures 3 and 4, the first end 41 of each focusing member 40 extends 12 within the foil 13, 25a, 25b, 25c and is attached to the internal structure 31. In addition or 13 alternatively, the first end 41 of each focusing member 40 can be attached to the a surface 14 14, 15, 18, 19, 21, 22 of the foil 13, 25a, 25b, 25c such as the first side 18.

16 The focusing members 40 depicted in Figures 3 and 4 extend from the first side 18 of the 17 foil 13, 25a, 25b, 25c towards the central axis. As such, the foil 25a with a thickness 18 variation in the span direction, would induce an oscillatory displacement, i.e. linear 19 vibrations in focusing members 40. Conversely, the foil 25a with a thickness variation in the chord direction, would induce an oscillatory twisting motion in the focusing members 21 40. Furthermore, the foil 25c with both a thickness variation in the chord and span 22 directions, would induce both a combined oscillatory displacement and twisting motion.

23 The movement exhibited by the focusing members 40 is dependent on where the focusing 24 members 40 are attached and the shape and structure of the foil 13, 25a, 25b, 25c.

26 Figures 3 and 4 show the focusing members 40 merge towards the second end 42, pass 27 through the generator housing 5a and extend within the generator housing 5a towards the 28 central axis 4. As an alternative, the focusing members 40 may pass through the 29 generator housing 5a and then merge. The focusing members 40 pass through the generator housing 5a by means of a bearing 43 which facilitates the focusing members 40 31 transmitting the movement of the foil 13, 25a, 25b, 25c within the generator housing 5.

32 The type of bearing 43 will depend on the type of movement, for example oscillatory 33 displacement and or twisting, exhibited by the focusing members 40.

1 The foils 9, 25a, 25b, 25c are designed to oscillate and vibrate at a relatively low frequency 2 between 10 to 50 Hz and a relatively high amplitude equating to a displacement of the 3 second end of the focusing members between 10 and 25 mm. Alternatively, the foils may 4 vibrate at a medium frequency over 50 Hz with a similar relatively high amplitude (10 to 25 mm).

7 The energy conversion means 39 is located at the second end 42 of the vibrational lens 8 38, within the generator housing 5a. As depicted in Figures 3 and 10 the energy 9 conversion means 39 takes the form of a magnet 44 attached to the second end 42 of the focusing members 40 and a coil 45 is located about the magnet 44. The energy 11 conversion means 39 operates on the principle of magnetic induction in that the movement 12 of the magnet 44 relative to the coil 45 creates a changing magnetic flux inducing a current 13 in the coil 45. As can clearly by seen in Figure 10 there are multiple sets of the magnet 44 14 and coil 45 located about the central axis 4, where each set is independently generating electricity.

17 As an additional or alternative feature, the energy conversion means 39 may take the form 18 of piezoelectric crystals.

Energy Harvesting System 22 Figure 11 shows an energy harvesting system 46 comprising an array of the energy 23 harvesting devices 1 stacked side-by-side and upon each other. As such, the energy 24 harvesting system 46 may take the form of a wall, a fence, panels for a structure or building or even a component within a structure. The energy harvesting system 46 may be 26 located in regions of high fluid flow 9, and particularly high turbulent fluid flow 24.

28 As an example, for a wind energy harvesting device 1 where the fluid of the fluid flow 9 is 29 air, high turbulent air flow could be found near a motorway, an airport or even on a high-rise building.

32 As another example, for a liquid flow energy harvesting device 1 where the fluid of the fluid 33 flow 9 is, for example water, high turbulent water flow could be found at a tidal barrier, a 34 tidal estuary, a dam, river flood defences, bridge supports or even within water transport 1 pipes. It will be appreciated that a liquid flow energy harvesting device 1 would be 2 submerged under water.

4 Alternative Energy Harvesting Devices 6 Figure 12 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device lb which may comprise the 7 same preferable and optional features as the energy harvesting device la depicted in 8 Figures 1 to 11.

The energy harvesting device lb of Figure 12 comprising a duct 8b connecting the first 11 surface 2b with a tangential third surface 47b of the energy harvesting device 1 b. The 12 third surface 47b is substantially parallel to the central axis 4 and connects the first and 13 second surfaces 2b, 3b. The duct 8b comprises a bend 48 which diverts the fluid flow 9 14 originally parallel to the central axis 4 in a tangential direction to the central axis 4. It will be appreciated that the energy harvesting device 1 b may comprise both: ducts 8a 16 connecting the first and second surfaces 2a, 3a as depicted in Figures 1 and 2; and ducts 17 8b connecting the first and third surfaces 2b, 47b as depicted in Figure 12. As an 18 example, when the energy harvesting device lb takes the form of panels on the side of a 19 building, the ducts 8b divert away wind incident upon the building whilst also harvesting energy. As another example, when the energy harvesting device lb takes the form of 21 panels on a sea wall, the ducts 8b divert sea water incident upon the sea wall whilst also 22 harvesting energy.

24 As an additional or alternative feature, the energy harvesting device lb as depicted in Figure 12 further comprises a layer of noise insulation 49 attached to the second surface 26 3b of the energy harvesting device 1 b. When the energy harvesting device lb takes the 27 form of a panel suitable for use on a high-rise building, as well as the panel generating 28 electricity, the noise insulation 49 would provide sound proofing for the building. The noise 29 insulation 49 is particularly suited to the embodiment of Figure 12 as the duct 8b is diverted away from the second surface 3b. Whereas the duct 8a of energy harvesting 31 device la depicted in Figure 1 would pass through the additional layer of noise insulation 32 49.

1 Figure 13 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device lc which may comprise the 2 same preferable and optional features as the energy harvesting devices la, lb depicted in 3 Figures 1 to 12.

The energy harvesting device lc of Figure 13 may comprise a lens 50 for focusing solar 6 radiation 51. This feature is particularly suited to a wind energy harvesting device, in other 7 words, a device not submerged under water. The lens 50 may take the form of a 8 conventional optical lens. The lens 50 is attached to the energy harvesting device lc by 9 means of a mounting bracket 52 and orientated to focus solar radiation 51 in the region of the outlet opening 11 of the duct Sc. Consequently, the fluid at the outlet opening 11 is 11 hotter than the fluid at the inlet opening 10. In other words, the lens 50 creates a thermal 12 gradient between the inlet opening 10 and outlet opening 11 of the duct 8c. This thermal 13 gradient induces a convection fluid flow, increasing the velocity and kinetic energy of the 14 fluid flow through the duct Sc. The foils 13 located within the duct Sc may exhibit, for example, higher amplitude vibrations, and this increased vibrational energy can also be 16 captured, transmitted, focused, converged and or converted into electrical energy by the 17 energy harvesting device lc. The lens 50 enhances the output of the energy harvesting 18 device lc as increases the amount of electricity generated. It will be appreciated that the 19 energy harvesting device lc may comprise multiple lenses 50 all orientated towards the outlet openings 11 of the ducts 8c.

22 Figure 14 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device ld which may comprise the 23 same preferable and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, lb, lc 24 depicted in Figures 1 to 13.

26 As a further additional or alternative feature, the energy conversion means 39 may 27 comprise a rotor 53, or more specifically a whirligig-type rotor, connected by an elastic coil 28 connector 54 between the second ends 42 of two focusing members 40 of two vibrational 29 lenses 38, see Figure 14. Each vibrational lens 38 is attached to a foil 13. The oscillatory movement of the second ends 42 of two focusing members 40 stretches and compresses 31 the elastic coil connector 54 which induces the rotor 53 to rotate. This rotatory motion is 32 converted into electricity by a magnet and coil arrangement. The rotor can spin both 33 clockwise and anticlockwise so a pole flipping magnetic generator is required such that 34 electricity can be generated regardless of the rotation direction. In addition, or alternatively, a gear system (not shown) can be attached to the rotor 53, which turns a 1 secondary wheel or shaft. The gear system will rotate the secondary wheel or shaft 2 irrespective to the direction of the rotor 53.

4 Figure 15 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device le which may comprise the same preferable and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, lb, lc, 1d 6 depicted in Figures 1 to 14.

8 Figure 15 depicts a cylindrical energy harvesting device le comprising a curved surface 9 55. In this embodiment a duct Be connects a first region 56 of the curved surface 55 to a second region 57 of the curved surface 55. As can be seen in Figure 15, the ducts Be 11 have different orientations such that the ducts Be each connect different regions of the 12 curved surface 55. As such, the energy harvesting device le can advantageously interact 13 with fluid flows 9 from different directions.

Figure 16 depicts an alternative energy harvesting device if which may comprise the 16 same preferable and optional features as the energy harvesting devices 1a, lb, lc, 1d, le 17 depicted in Figures 1 to 15.

19 The energy harvesting device if of Figure 16 takes the form of a tree structure as comprises branch members 58. Each branch member comprises a first surface 59, a 21 second surface 60 and ducts 8f connecting the first and second surfaces 59, 60. Each 22 branch member 58 is connected to the generator housing 5f which takes the form of a 23 central column as depicted in Figure 16. Advantageously, the branch members 58 may 24 each have different orientations such that the energy harvesting device le can also interact with fluid flows 9 from different directions.

27 Figures 17, 18 and 19 depict an alternative energy harvesting device lg which may 28 comprise the same preferable and optional features as the energy harvesting devices la, 29 1 b, 1 c, id, le, if depicted in Figures 1 to 16.

31 As can be seen in Figure 17, the energy harvesting device lg has a substantially uniform 32 hexagonal prism shape. The opposing first and second surfaces 2g, 3g of the energy 33 harvesting device lg take the form of the two hexagonal base surfaces of the hexagonal 34 prism. As with previous embodiments, the first and second surfaces 2g, 3g are perpendicular to and centred about the central axis 4g.

2 The generator housing 5g depicted in Figure 17 comprises a substantially hexagonal 3 cross-sectional shape as opposed to a substantially circular cross-sectional shape as 4 previously described in the context of Figures 1 to 3. Furthermore, the ducts 8g depicted in Figure 17 comprise a substantially trapezium cross-sectional shape as opposed to an 6 elliptical cross-section shape as previously described in the context of Figures 1 to 3.

8 A key difference between the energy harvesting system of Figure 17 and the embodiments 9 of Figures 1 to 16, is the configuration of the foils 13, 25 and the generator 37g. More specifically, the vibrational apparatus of the generator 37g takes the form of a vibrational 11 member 61 as opposed to a vibrational lens 38. The vibrational member 61 comprises a 12 first end 62 and a second end 63. The first end 62 of the vibrational member 61 is 13 attached to a first side 18 of a foil 13, 25. An energy conversion means 39g is located at 14 the second end 63 of the vibrational member 61. The vibrational member 61 extends from the foil 13, passes through the generator housing 5a and extends within the generator 16 housing 5a to the energy conversion means 39g. The vibrational member 61 passes 17 through the generator housing 5a by means of a bearing 43g, located between the first 18 and second ends 62, 63 of the vibrational member 61.

Figure 18 depicts the motion, specifically four positions, exhibited by the vibrational 21 member 61 and foil 13, 25 of the energy harvesting device 1g. Figure 18 defines an x, y 22 and z axis to aid the description of this motion.

24 Figure 8a depicts a first position 64, where the vibrational member 61 is angled at -a relative to a central pivot position 65 of the vibrational member 61. In the context of Figure 26 18, the central pivot position 65 of the vibrational member 61 is defined as when the 27 vibrational member 61 is parallel to the z axis. Furthermore, in the first position 64, the foil 28 13, 25 is orientated such that the chord 16 of the foil 13, 25 is angled at -13 relative to a 29 central rotation position 66 of the foil 13, 25. The central rotation position 66 of the foil 13, 25 is defined as when the chord 16 of the foil 13, 25 is parallel to the direction of the fluid 31 flow 9, along the y direction. In operation, a fluid flow 9 along the y direction is incident 32 upon the leading edge 14 of the foil 13, 25. The angle of attack of the foil 13, 25 generates 33 lift (FL) in the positive x direction, inducing a pivoting motion of the vibrational member 61 34 about the bearing 43g. This pivoting motion is limited by a first pivot stop 67 such that the 1 vibrational member 61 stops in a second position 68 where the vibrational member 61 is 2 angled at +a relative to the z axis as depicted by Figure 8b.

4 When in the second position 68, the weight and or inertia of the foil 13, 25 results in a rotating force (FR) inducing a rotation motion of the foil 13, 25 an axis 69 defined by the 6 vibrational member 61 itself, the axis 69 extending between the first and second ends 62, 7 63. This rotation is limited by a first rotation stop 70. The rotation of the foil 13,25 8 reverses the angle of attack of the foil 13, 25 such that the chord 16 of the foil 13, 25 is 9 angled of +13 relative to the central rotation position 66 as can be by Figure 8c which depicts a third position 71. It will be appreciated that the position of the axis 69 relative to 11 the foil 13, 25, in particular, the position of the axis 69 along the chord 16 of the foil 13, 25, 12 determines the relative ease at which the foil 13, 25 will rotate. For example, the axis 69 13 may be offset closer to the leading edge 14 of the foil 13, 25 as opposed to the trailing 14 edge 15. As such, the position of the axis 69 may be optimised such to achieve the desired rotation characteristic of the foil 13, 25.

17 In the third position, the fluid flow 9 about the foil 13, 25 generates lift (FL) in the negative x 18 direction, inducing a relative reverse pivoting motion of the vibrational member 61 about 19 the bearing 43g. This reverse pivoting motion is limited by a second pivot stop 72 such that the vibrational member 61 stops in a fourth position 73 where the vibrational member 21 61 angled at -a relative to the central pivot position 65 as depicted by Figure 8d.

23 When in the fourth position 73, the weight and or inertia of the foil 13, 25 again results in a 24 rotating force (FR) inducing in a reverse rotation motion of the foil 13, 25 about the axis defined by the vibrational member 61. This rotation is limited by a second rotation stop 74.

26 After which, the chord 16 of the foil 13, 25 is angled of -p relative to the central rotation 27 position 66, thereby returning the arrangement to the first position 64 as depicted by 28 Figure 8a. The pivot and rotation cycle repeats.

The first and second pivot stops 67, 72, which can clearly be seen in Figure 19, limit the 31 pivoting range of the vibrational member 61. The position of the first and second pivot 32 stops 67, 72 can be adjusted according to the desired pivot range. The vibrational 33 member 61 may pivot between 1 and 89° either side of the central pivot position 65.

34 Preferably, the vibrational member 61 pivots between 1° to 30° either side of the central 1 pivot position 65. Preferably, the vibrational member 61 pivots between 1° to 150 either 2 side of the central pivot position 65.

4 Similarly, the first and second rotation stops 70, 74, as depicted in Figure 19, limit the rotation of the vibrational member 61 and as such the foil 13, 25. The position of the first 6 and second rotation stops 70, 74 can be adjusted according to the desired rotation range, 7 in other words, the desired angle of attack of the foil 13, 25. The vibrational member 61 8 and foil 13, 25 may rotate between 1 and 89° either side of the central rotation position 66.

9 Preferably, the combination of the vibrational member 61 and foil 13, 25 rotates between 1° to 35° either side of the central rotation position 66. ii

12 The energy conversion means 39g located at the second end 63 end of the vibrational 13 member 61 exhibits only a pivoting motion and not a rotation motion. The rotation motion 14 is isolated to the vibrational member 61 and foil 13, 25. As such, the pivot motion drives the energy conversion means 39g whereas the rotation motion perpetuates and or assists 16 the pivot motion.

18 Figure 19 depicts the energy conversion means 39g located at the second end 63 of the 19 vibrational member 61. The second end of the vibrational member 61 comprises a curved rack 75, in other words, a toothed track. The rack 75 is orientated and positioned engage 21 with a pinion 76 also termed a cog or a gear. The pinion 76 is connected to an axel 77, 22 which is in term connected to an electric generator 78. In operation, the pivoting motion of 23 the vibrational member 61 cyclically displaces the rack 75 in the x direction, rotating the 24 pinion 76. The pinion 76 rotates the axel 77 which drives the electric generator 78 thereby generating electricity. It will be appreciated that the axel 77 is not essential as the pinion 26 76 may be directly connect to the electric generator. It will also be appreciated that an 27 alternative transmission system could be envisaged to translate the pivoting motion of the 28 vibrational member to the electric generator.

As can be seen in Figure 17, the energy harvesting device 1g comprises a plurality of foils 31 13, 25. More specifically, Figure 17 depicts two foils 13, 25 in each of the six ducts 8g of 32 the energy harvesting device 1g. It will be appreciated that each duct 8g may comprise 33 more or less foils 13, 25 and the energy harvesting device 1g may comprise more or less 34 ducts 8g. The generator 37g comprises multiple vibrational members 61 and energy conversion means 39g. A single foil 13, 25 is attached to a single vibrational member 61 1 which is in turn connected to the energy conversion means 39g. The energy conversion 2 means 39g may comprise a plurality of independent rack 75 and pinion 76 arrangements 3 attached to a plurality of independent electric generators 78. As such, each foil 13, 25 4 independently moves according to the motion depicted in Figure 18 and independently generates electricity.

7 The embodiment of Figures 17 to 19 translates linear movement of a foil 13, 25 into 8 rotational movement which drives a conventional electrical generator 78. Advantageously, 9 the energy harvesting device lg of Figures 17 to 19 is simpler than the embodiments of Figure 1 to 16 as comprises a electric generator 78 as opposed to a custom magnet 44 11 and coil 45 arrangement. As such, the device is simpler and cheaper to manufacture and 12 more reliable.

14 Method of Manufacturing an Energy Harvesting Device 16 Figure 20 shows a flow chart for a method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device 17 1. The method comprises: providing a duct with an inlet and an outlet opening (S1001); 18 providing one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or 19 more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening (61002); and providing a generator to convert movement of the one or more foils into electricity (S1003).

22 In addition, the method of manufacturing may optionally comprise characterising the fluid 23 flow 9, 24. For example, this may include characterising: the mean fluid flow speed, fluid 24 flow speed distribution, turbulence, fluid flow shear profile, distribution of fluid flow direction and long-term temporal fluid flow variations.

27 As a further addition, the method of manufacturing may option comprises utilising the 28 characteristics of the fluid flow 9, 24 to determine the optimum parameters of the energy 29 harvesting device 1. For example, this optimisation process may include determining: the dimensions of the energy harvesting device 1; the dimension and shape of the ducts 8, the 31 shape and structure of the foils 13, 25a, 25b, 25c; the dimension, shape, material 32 composition, orientation and arrangement of the vibrational apparatus; the relative 33 positioning of two or more foils 13, 25a, 25b, 25c within a duct 8; the arrangement and 34 configuration of features for adjusting the fluid flow 9 such as the fins 32, flaps 34, mesh 35 and flow restrictors 36; and the arrangement and configuration of the generator 37.

1 Optimising the vibrational apparatus may comprises optimising the vibrational lens 38 by 2 matching the average resonant frequency across the operational range of the foil 13, 25a, 3 25b, 25c.

The energy harvesting device 1 has numerous advantages. In an embodiment, the device 6 can operate without aerodynamic or hydrodynamic lift moving a foil. Instead, the energy 7 harvesting devices 1 a, 1 b, 1 c, id, 1 e, if depicted in Figures 1 to 16 harvests the 8 vibrational energy induced within one or more foils 13, 25a, 25b, 25c and specifically, 9 flutter vibrations induced by counter interacting lift.

11 Advantageously, the energy harvesting device 1 can be optimised to operate over a broad 12 range of fluid flow parameters, such as fluid flow speed, reducing the problematic 13 intermittency associated with devices known in the art.

A further advantage is that the energy harvesting device 1 can be compact, is modular and 16 can form part of a larger system 46. The energy harvesting device 1 and systems 46 can 17 be discretely integrated into the environment in the form walls but are also suitable for 18 locations typically not considered for devices known in the art, such as urban landscapes, 19 motorways, airports and even under water locations. The energy harvesting device 1 is not limited to remote areas, often considered areas of natural beauty and so there is no 21 reason for a negative public opinion.

23 Advantageously, the energy harvesting device 1 does not comprise relatively large moving 24 external components which can kill birds or fish depending on where the energy harvesting device 1 is located. The moving components of the energy harvesting device 1 are all 26 internal and only exhibit small scale movement such as vibrations, pivoting and rotation 27 movements. Furthermore, the energy harvesting device 1 comprises features which 28 minimise the risk to wildlife such as the mesh 35 which prevents birds or fish from entering 29 the duct 8 through the inlet opening 10.

31 The energy harvesting device 1 can be optimised accordingly to the characteristics of the 32 fluid flow 9 such that the device 1 is suitable for a broad range of applications. The 33 functionality of the energy harvesting devices 1 can be maximised by incorporating 34 addition features such as noise insulation 49.

1 An energy harvesting device is disclosed. The energy harvesting device comprises a duct 2 with an inlet opening and an outlet opening. The energy harvesting device further 3 comprises one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or 4 more foils are orientated towards the inlet opening. The energy harvesting device also comprises a generator to convert movement of the one or more foils into electricity. The 6 generator comprises one or more vibrational members and an energy conversion means.

7 The one or more vibrational members are configured to exhibit both pivoting motion and 8 the one or more foils are configured to exhibit a rotation motion. The foils may be aerofoils 9 or hydrofoils. The energy harvesting device provides an alternative device for generating renewable energy with numerous advantages. The device harvests vibrational energy, 11 can be optimised to operate over a broad range of fluid flow parameters, has minimal 12 negative environmental impact and is suitable for numerous locations and applications.

14 Throughout the specification, unless the context demands otherwise, the terms "comprise" or "include", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", "includes" or "including' will 16 be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the 17 exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. Furthermore, unless the context clearly 18 demands otherwise, the term "or" will be interpreted as being inclusive not exclusive.

The foregoing description of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration 21 and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise 22 form disclosed. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best 23 explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others 24 skilled in the art to best utilise the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Therefore, further 26 modifications or improvements may be incorporated without departing from the scope of 27 the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1 Claims 3 1. An energy harvesting device comprising: 4 a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or more 6 foils is orientated towards the inlet opening; and 7 a generator comprising one or more vibrational members and an energy conversion 8 means, the generator employed to convert movement of the one or more foils into 9 electricity, wherein the one or more vibrational members are configured to exhibit a pivoting 11 motion which drives the energy conversion means and the one or more foils are 12 configured exhibit a rotation motion which assists the pivot motion.14

2. An energy harvesting device as claimed in claim 1, wherein each vibrational member comprises a first end for attachment to a foil and a second end located at which is an 16 energy conversion means.18

3. An energy harvesting device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the vibrational member is 19 configured to pivot about a bearing located between the first and second ends of the vibrational member.22

4. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein each 23 vibrational member pivots between 1° and 89° either side of a central pivot position.

5. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein each 26 vibrational member pivots between 1° and 300 either side of a central pivot position, or 27 each vibrational member pivots between 1° and 15° either side of a central pivot 28 position.

6. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein in 31 operation, fluid flow about the foil generates lift which induces the pivoting motion of 32 the vibrational member.34

7. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein a first pivot stop and a second pivot stop limits the pivoting motion of the vibrational member.2

8. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein each 3 foil is configured to rotate about an axis of the vibrational member.

9. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the foil 6 rotates between 1° and 89° either side of a central rotation position.8

10. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the foil 9 rotates between 1° and 35° either side of a central rotation position.11

11. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein in 12 operation, the weight and or inertia of the foil generates a rotation force which induces 13 a rotation motion of the foil.

12. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, the rotation 16 motion of the foil reverses the angle of attack of the foil.18

13. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, a first rotation 19 stop and a second rotation stop limit the rotation motion of the foil.21

14. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the 22 energy conversion means located at the second end of the vibrational member exhibits 23 only the pivoting motion and not the rotation motion.

15. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, the rotation 26 motion is isolated to the combination of the vibrational member and foil.28

16. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the 29 energy conversion means comprises a rack, located at the second end of the vibrational member and a pinion, wherein the rack is orientated and positioned to 31 engage with a pinion.33

17. An energy harvesting device as claimed in claim 16, the energy conversion means 34 further comprises an electric generator, wherein the pinion is connected directly or indirectly by an axel to the electric generator.2

18. An energy harvesting device as claimed in claim 17, wherein in operation the pivoting 3 motion displaces the rack which rotates the pinion, driving the electric generator.

19. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein, the 6 wind energy harvesting device further comprises two or more ducts each of the two or 7 more ducts having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, wherein each of the two or 8 more ducts comprise one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge 9 of the one or more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening.11

20. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the proceeding claims wherein, the 12 one or more foils comprise one or more aerofoils.14

21. An energy harvesting device as claimed in any of the proceeding claims wherein, the one or more foils comprise or one or more hydrofoils.17

22. An energy harvesting system comprising two or more energy harvesting devices as 18 claimed in any of the preceding claims.

23. A method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device comprising: 21 providing a duct with an inlet opening and an outlet opening; 22 providing one or more foils located within the duct wherein a leading edge of the one or 23 more foils is orientated towards the inlet opening; and 24 providing a generator comprising one or more vibrational members and an energy conversion means, the generator employed to convert movement of the one or more 26 foils into electricity, 27 wherein the one or more vibrational members are configured to exhibit a pivoting 28 motion which drives the energy conversion means and the one or more foils are 29 configured exhibit a rotation motion which assists the pivot motion.31

24. A method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device as claimed in claim 23, the 32 method of manufacturing a wind energy harvesting device further comprises 33 characterising a fluid flow.1

25. A method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device as claimed in claim 24, the 2 method of manufacturing an energy harvesting device further comprises determining 3 the optimum parameters of the energy harvesting device for use with the fluid flow.