JP2013544332A - Improvements in turbines - Google Patents

Abstract

【Task】
The present invention relates to a turbine for extracting energy from a vibrating working fluid.
[Solution]
The turbine includes a housing that defines a flow path for the working fluid. The energy conversion part is arrange | positioned in the housing. The flow control means is selectively movable so as to block a predetermined part of the flow path, and the working fluid is guided to act on a certain part of the energy conversion unit.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates generally to energy conversion devices, and more particularly to turbines.
The present invention has been developed primarily for use in ocean wave extraction systems that use oscillating water cylinders and will be described hereinafter in this application. However, it will be appreciated that the present invention is not particularly limited to this field of use.

  To date, there has been an increasing interest in the impact that traditional energy systems have had on the environment, and new methods and systems are currently being developed to reduce the environmental impact of such systems. Has been.

Many of these systems rely on turbines to rotate electric generators to generate electricity. A problem with many such systems that have been proposed for the times is that considerable capital costs are required to set up a new system. Since the return on investment is limited to some extent by the relationship between capital cost and system efficiency, this degree of capital cost can often act as a deterrent to investors.
Currently used turbines in such systems operate at relatively low efficiency, and energy extraction systems are generally limited by the efficiency of these turbines.
It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate one or more disadvantages of the prior art, or at least provide a useful alternative.

In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention,
A turbine for extracting energy from a vibrating working fluid,
A housing defining a flow path for the working fluid;
An energy converter disposed in the housing;
A flow control means,
A turbine is provided wherein the flow control means is selectively movable to obstruct a predetermined portion of the flow path so that the working fluid is guided and acts on a portion of the energy converter.
Preferably, the flow control means includes a first configuration in which the flow control means blocks the first position of the flow path, and the working fluid can act on the first action part of the energy conversion part, and the flow control means includes It is movable so as to change the configuration of the flow path between the second configuration in which the second position of the flow channel is blocked and the working fluid can act on the second operating portion of the energy conversion unit.
The turbine of the present invention is particularly adapted for use in an ocean wave energy extraction system, wherein the working fluid is an oscillating airflow generated by an oscillating water cylinder of the ocean wave energy extraction system, the oscillating. The water column (and such airflow) vibrates in response to rising rising ocean waves passing through it.
Preferably, the energy conversion unit rotates in the flow path. The rotor is preferably adapted to rotate alone and is independent of the fluid flow direction. Preferably, the rotor is arranged to be substantially perpendicular to the fluid flow direction.
Preferably, the rotor has a central hub and a plurality of blades arranged around the hub and extending from the periphery of the hub, and the plurality of blades are arranged in the flow path. Each blade preferably has a pressure side surface and a suction side surface. Preferably, each pressure side surface is concave. Each suction side surface is preferably convex.
It is preferable that the first operation unit of the energy conversion unit is a predetermined part of the rotor. In one embodiment, the first operation unit is a predetermined number of continuous blades. In another embodiment, the first operation unit is a predetermined circumferential range of the rotor.
The channel preferably has an annular cross section. In the first configuration, the flow control mechanism interrupts a part of the ring shape at the inlet end, and an inlet opening through which the working fluid flowing in the first direction passes to act on the first working portion of the rotor. Is preferably defined.
Preferably, the first stator or nozzle is disposed on the first side of the rotor and directs the working fluid flowing in the first direction toward the pressure surface of the blade of the rotor. In a preferred embodiment, the first stator or nozzle includes a plurality of guide vanes arranged to have a circumferential range of about 180 degrees around the annular shape of the flow path.
The flow control mechanism includes a first configuration that defines a first inlet opening so that the working fluid can act on the first working part, and a first structure that allows the working fluid to act on the first working part. Preferably, means for changing the configuration of the inlet opening of the flow path between the second configuration defining two inlet openings. The inlet and outlet openings are preferably arranged on the opposite side of the rotor.
In one embodiment, the flow control mechanism is related to a circumferential range of the flow path, and includes a first gate or valve-type mechanism that is not covered by the first stator, and the first gate-type mechanism includes: It is preferably movable between an open position and a closed position where the working fluid is only allowed to pass through a nozzle part open to the rotor.
Preferably, the second stator or nozzle is disposed on the second opposite side of the rotor and directs the working fluid flowing in the second direction to the pressure surface of the rotor blade. In a preferred embodiment, the second stator or nozzle includes a plurality of guide vanes arranged to have a circumferential range of about 180 degrees around the annular shape of the flow path.
In one embodiment, the flow control mechanism is related to a circumferential range of the flow path, and includes a second gate or valve-type mechanism that is not covered by the second stator, and the second gate-type mechanism includes: It is preferably movable between an open position and a closed position where the working fluid is only allowed to pass through a nozzle part open to the rotor.
In another preferred embodiment, the flow control mechanism includes a rotatable disk for blocking a portion of the inlet opening of the flow path. Preferably, a rotatable disk is provided on each side surface of the energy conversion unit and blocks a part of each inlet opening of the flow path. The rotatable disk is preferably semicircular. Preferably, the disks are offset by 180 degrees relative to each other. Both disks rotate simultaneously up to 180 degrees in response to a change in the direction of fluid flowing from the first flow direction to the second flow direction, and the working fluid can act on the first and second working parts, respectively. Is preferred.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, a turbine for extracting energy from a vibrating working fluid,
A housing defining a flow path for the working fluid;
An energy conversion unit disposed in the housing and having a first operating unit and a second operating unit;
A first configuration in which the working fluid can act on the first working portion when the working fluid flows in a first predetermined direction; and the working fluid flows in the second predetermined direction when the working fluid flows in the second predetermined direction. A turbine comprising: a second configuration capable of acting on two working parts; and a flow control means for changing a configuration of the flow path between the two configurations.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, a turbine for extracting energy from a vibrating working fluid,
A housing defining a flow path for the working fluid;
An energy converter disposed in the housing;
A flow control mechanism that selectively changes the configuration of the flow path between an active configuration in which the working fluid acts on the energy conversion unit and a bypass configuration in which the working fluid bypasses the energy. Providing a turbine.
In one embodiment, the energy conversion unit includes a first energy conversion module and a second energy conversion module. The first energy conversion module is preferably adapted to operate in response to a working fluid flowing in a predetermined first direction. The second energy conversion module is preferably adapted to operate in response to the working fluid flowing in a predetermined second direction.
Preferably, the flow control mechanism causes the active configuration of the flow path to be a first active configuration in which the working fluid acts on the first energy conversion module and bypasses the second energy conversion module, and the working fluid. Selectively changes between a second active configuration that acts on the second energy conversion module and bypasses the first energy conversion module.
The housing is longitudinal and preferably extends along a longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the housing is arranged such that its longitudinal axis is arranged substantially parallel to the direction of flow of the oscillating working fluid. In another embodiment, the housing is arranged such that its longitudinal axis is arranged substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow of the oscillating working fluid.
For example, in an embodiment, the housing can be arranged such that the longitudinal axis is substantially vertical. In another preferred form, the housing may be arranged such that the longitudinal axis is substantially horizontal. By those skilled in the art, it is recognized that the housing is not limited to the above-described directions, but can be arranged in other suitable directions with respect to the direction of flow of the working fluid to suit a particular application. Will.
Preferably, the first energy conversion module and the second energy conversion module are arranged in the axial direction with a space apart from each other. Preferably, the first and second energy conversion modules are arranged substantially coaxially along the longitudinal axis of the housing.
In a preferred embodiment, the housing has a generally cylindrical shape. The housing preferably includes inner and outer frames. Preferably, the inner and outer frames are arranged in relation to each other, and a space or space between them forms at least a part of the flow path. The space or space between the inner and outer frames preferably forms the central path of the flow path.
Preferably, the inner and outer frames of the housing are arranged substantially concentrically around the longitudinal axis, and the cross section of the flow path, more specifically the cross section of the center or main path, is in the form of an annulus. ing.
Preferably, the housing has a first bypass part associated with the first energy conversion module and a second bypass part associated with the second energy conversion module. The first bypass section is in contact with the first energy conversion module and defines a first bypass path for the working fluid that flows around (or otherwise does not work) around the first energy conversion module. Is preferred. The second bypass portion is in contact with the second energy conversion module and defines a second bypass path for the working fluid that flows around (or otherwise does not act) the second energy conversion module. Is preferred.
Preferably, the flow control means has a first gate type mechanism movably provided in the housing for opening and closing the first bypass path. The flow control means has a second gate type mechanism movably provided in the housing for opening and closing the second bypass path. In some preferred embodiments, the first and second gate type mechanisms include a plurality of gate members hingedly connected to an outer frame of the housing, each gate member including the associated bypass path. It is preferably movable from a first position substantially flush with the outer frame for closing to a second position extending across the annulus of the flow path for opening the bypass passage. Preferably, the plurality of gate members are arranged in a pole row.
In a preferred embodiment, the first gate type mechanism includes an upstream set of gate members and a downstream set of gate members disposed upstream and downstream of the first energy conversion module, respectively.
Preferably, the second gate mechanism includes an upstream set of gate members and a downstream set of gate members disposed upstream and downstream of the second energy conversion module, respectively. It will be appreciated that the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used in a comparative sense and are due to the direction of flow of the oscillating working fluid.
The flow control mechanism is not limited to the above-described hinge-type gate type mechanism, and for example, one or more flow channel parts such as an arrangement of flow control valves that can change the configuration of the flow channel. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that it is a suitable shielding means for shielding.
Preferably, each energy conversion module has a rotor supported for rotation about the longitudinal axis of the housing. The rotors of the first and second energy conversion modules are preferably adjusted coaxially.
Preferably, each rotor has a central hub and a plurality of blades disposed around the hub and extending from the periphery of the hub. Each rotor is preferably arranged such that the plurality of blades are arranged in the flow path, more specifically in a central path between the inner and outer frames of the housing.
The plurality of blades of each rotor is preferably configured such that each rotor rotates in a predetermined direction. Preferably, each rotor is arranged to be substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow of the working fluid, and each rotor rotates about the longitudinal axis of the housing. In another preferred form, each rotor is arranged to rotate in a direction substantially parallel to the fluid flow direction. In a preferred embodiment, the rotor of the first energy conversion module and the rotor of the second energy conversion module are arranged to rotate in the same direction.
Preferably, each rotor blade has a generally crescent or arcuate cross-sectional profile. Each crescent blade preferably has a concavity and convexity shape that converges and includes a concave surface and a convex surface.
Preferably, the cross-sectional profile of each crescent blade converges such that each blade has a substantially parallel outer tip. The outer tip of each blade preferably has a smooth beveled profile, or otherwise a circular profile, one that is not sharp or pointed. In certain embodiments, each outer tip has a predetermined radius of curvature.
In one embodiment, each energy conversion module includes an inlet stator disposed adjacent to the associated rotor and directs the working fluid to the rotor. It will be appreciated that the inlet stator is adapted to divert the working fluid flow or flow path to facilitate rotation of the associated rotor in a predetermined direction.
Preferably, each stator has a plurality of guide vanes for guiding the working fluid to act on the concave surface of the rotor blade, and when the associated rotor rotates during use. The convex surface leads the concave surface.
Each stator is preferably arranged such that the plurality of guide vanes are arranged in the flow path, more specifically in the central path between the inner and outer frames of the housing. The guide vane is preferably arranged so as to be substantially perpendicular to the fluid flow direction. The plurality of guide vanes of each stator are arranged in a pole row, preferably around the longitudinal axis of the housing.
Preferably, the stator associated with the first energy conversion module is disposed toward the inlet end of the housing, and the stator is configured to move the first rotor when the working fluid flows in the first direction. On the downstream side. Preferably, the stator associated with the second energy conversion module is disposed toward the discharge end of the housing, and the stator is configured such that when the working fluid is flowing in the second direction, the second Located downstream of the rotor. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second energy conversion units are coaxially adjusted to each other, and the rotors of the first and second energy conversion units are interposed in the associated stator. ing.
In some preferred embodiments, each guide vane has a curved cross-sectional profile. Preferably, the profile of the curved cross section of each guide vane is asymmetric. Each guide vane preferably has an asymmetrical converging configuration with a concave surface and a convex surface. Preferably, each guide vane is arranged so that, in use, the concave surface accompanies the working fluid when the flow path is in an associated active configuration.
Each guide preferably has a leading edge, an intermediate portion, and a trailing edge. The intermediate portion of each stationary blade is preferably closer to the front edge than to the rear edge. Each leading edge preferably has a smooth slope or otherwise has a circular contour. Preferably, each trailing edge has a smooth slope or otherwise a circular profile. The leading and trailing edges of each guide vane are preferably not sharp or pointed. In a preferred embodiment, each leading edge and trailing edge of the guide vane has a predetermined radius of curvature. Preferably, the radius of curvature of the leading edge is greater than the radius of curvature of the trailing edge.
It will be appreciated that the guide vanes are not limited to the preferred form described above and may be of any suitable shape including a planar shape to divert the fluid flow direction toward the concave surface of the rotor blade. I will.
However, the preferred form of the rotor blade and guide vane having a smooth surface and a circular end allows the energy conversion module and increased working fluid to be used to rotate the rotor to be used. Overall, there are benefits in terms of improved efficiency and operation of the turbine.
Preferably, each rotor has a drive shaft connected to the central hub at its proximal end, and the rotation of the rotor causes a corresponding rotation of the drive shaft so that its end is It can be used to engage and drive an electric generator. In some preferred embodiments, the drive shaft associated with the first and second energy conversion modules drives the same electric generator. In a preferred embodiment, the electric generator is a generator having both ends. The electric generator is preferably provided on an inner frame of the housing.
The oscillating working fluid is preferably oscillating airflow. In one preferred form of the invention, the airflow is generated by an oscillating water cylinder of an ocean wave energy extraction system, an oscillating water cylinder (and such airflow) that oscillates as the passing ocean waves descend.
However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the oscillating working fluid is not limited to oscillating airflow, and not particularly to oscillating airflow generated from an oscillating water cylinder. For example, in another preferred form, the oscillating working fluid can be a suitable compressible fluid such as a gas, eg, a vapor. In other embodiments, the oscillating working fluid may be a liquid, eg, an incompressible fluid such as water.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a turbine for extracting energy from a vibrating working fluid,
A housing defining a flow path for the working fluid;
A first energy conversion module disposed within the housing;
A second energy conversion module disposed within the housing;
A first configuration in which the first energy conversion unit is operable and the second energy conversion unit is in an inactive state; and a second configuration in which the second energy conversion unit is operable and the first energy conversion unit is in an inactive state. A flow control means for changing the configuration of the flow path between the two configurations;
A turbine is provided.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention,
A rotor having a central hub;
A plurality of blades disposed about the hub, each blade having a generally crescent or arcuate cross-sectional profile;
A turbine is provided.
Each crescent-shaped blade preferably has a concavity and convexity configuration that includes a concave surface and a convex surface. Preferably, the blade is arranged around the hub, the concave surface being configured as the pressure surface of the blade, and the convex surface being configured as the suction surface of the blade.
Preferably, the cross-sectional profile of each crescent blade is converged such that each blade has a substantially parallel outer tip. The outer tip of each blade preferably has a smooth beveled profile, or otherwise a circular profile, not sharp or pointed. In certain embodiments, each outer tip has a predetermined radius of curvature.
Each rotor blade is preferably symmetrical.
In one embodiment, the turbine includes an inlet stator having a plurality of guide vanes disposed adjacent to the rotor for directing the working fluid toward the pressure surface of the rotor blade. . The inlet guide vane preferably directs the working fluid toward the rotor blade at a predetermined or desired flow angle. It will be appreciated that the inlet stator is adapted to divert the working fluid flow or flow path to facilitate rotation of the associated rotor in a given direction.
In some preferred embodiments, the turbine includes an outlet stator disposed adjacent to the rotor to guide the exhaust flow away from the rotor.
It will be appreciated that the inlet and outlet stators are configured such that their functions are reversible and facilitate operation with bi-directional or oscillating fluid flow.
In some preferred embodiments, each inlet and outlet guide vane has a curved cross-sectional profile. Preferably, the warped cross-sectional profile of each guide vane is asymmetric. Each guide vane preferably has an asymmetrical converging configuration with a concave surface and a convex surface. Preferably, each guide vane is arranged so that, in use, the concave surface accompanies the working fluid when the flow path is in an associated active configuration.
Each guide preferably has a leading edge, an intermediate portion, and a trailing edge. The intermediate portion of each stationary blade is preferably closer to the front edge than to the rear edge. Each leading edge preferably has a smooth slope or else has a circular contour. Preferably, each trailing edge has a smooth slope or else has a circular contour. The leading and trailing edges of each guide vane are preferably free of sharp or pointed tips. In a preferred embodiment, each leading edge and trailing edge of the guide vane has a predetermined radius of curvature. Preferably, the radius of curvature of the leading edge is greater than the radius of curvature of the trailing edge.
In an embodiment, the rotor blade may be interchangeable with a different profile blade to achieve different operating characteristics of the turbine. Similarly, the guide vanes of the first and second rotors may be interchangeable in certain embodiments.
In some preferred forms, the rotor blades and / or guide vanes are movably attached to each hub. For example, blades and / or guide vanes are hinged or rotatable attached to each hub and the pitch of the blades varies with respect to the fluid flow direction.
By way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described.

1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a turbine according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cutaway view of the turbine of FIG. 1 with the flow path in a first active configuration. FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a first stator-rotor energy conversion module and a second stator-rotor energy conversion module coupled to an electric generator having a pair of ends. It is a schematic diagram which shows the flow path of a working fluid when a flow path is a 1st active structure and the fluid is flowing into the 1st direction. It is a schematic diagram which shows the flow path of a working fluid when a flow path is a 2nd active structure and the fluid is flowing into the 2nd direction. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a side view of a second embodiment of a turbine according to the invention. FIG. 7 is an end view of the turbine of FIG. 6 with a portion of the flow path blocked by a flow control mechanism. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a turbine according to the present invention having a stator-rotor-stator arrangement. FIG. 9 is a side view of the turbine of FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an on-axis representation of the blade / guide vane arrangement of the turbine of FIG. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the turbine inlet stator of FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the turbine rotor of FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the discharge stator of the turbine of FIG. 8. FIG. 12 is an end view of the inlet stator of FIG. 11. FIG. 14 is an end view of the discharge stator of FIG. 13.

Referring to the drawings, the present invention provides a turbine 1 for extracting energy from a fluid acting while oscillating in an oscillating airflow state. The turbine 1 is specially developed for use in an ocean wave energy extraction system (not shown), particularly of the type having a vibrating water cylinder. In such a system, the oscillating water column or OWC is configured to generate an airflow that oscillates as the ocean waves pass up and down.
The turbine 1 has a vertical, generally cylindrical housing 2 having an inner frame 3 and an outer frame 4. The inner and outer frames (3, 4) are arranged concentrically around the longitudinal axis of the housing 2, and the gap or space between them forms a central flow path 5 for the working fluid. By arranging the inner and outer frames (3, 4) concentrically, the cross section of the central flow path 5 has an annular shape.
The energy conversion unit having the first energy conversion module 6 and the second energy conversion module 7 is provided in the housing 2 for extracting energy from the working fluid. The first and second rotor-stator modules (6, 7) are axially spaced from each other within the housing 2 and are substantially coaxial along the longitudinal axis of the housing 2.
The first energy conversion module 6 is preferably in the form of a stator-rotor module. The first stator-rotor module 6 is adapted to operate in response to a predetermined first direction of airflow. For example, the first stator-rotor module 6 is preferably configured to operate in response to the airflow resulting from rising ocean waves.
The second energy conversion module 7 is preferably in the form of a stator-rotor module. The second stator-rotor module 7 is adapted to operate in response to airflow flowing in a predetermined second direction. For example, the second stator-rotor module 7 is preferably configured to operate in response to airflow resulting from ocean wave descent.
The housing 2 is a first bypass portion that contacts the first stator-rotor module 6 that defines a first bypass path 9 for working fluid that flows around (or otherwise does not act) around the first stator-rotor module 6. 8.
The second bypass unit 10 is in contact with the second stator-rotor module 7 and has a second bypass path 11 for working fluid flowing around (or not acting separately) around the second stator-rotor module 7. Define.
A flow control means in the form of a gate or valve type mechanism 12 is arranged in the housing 2, and the active fluid acts on the first stator-rotor module 6 or the second stator-rotor module 7; The configuration of the flow path 5 is selectively changed between a bypass configuration in which the working fluid bypasses the energy conversion unit.

The gate type mechanism 12 is disposed upstream and downstream of both the stator-rotor module (6, 7). Each gate type mechanism 12 includes a single pole row gate member 13 hinged to the outer frame 4 of the housing 2. Each gate member 13 traverses a first position substantially flush with the outer frame 4 for closing the associated bypass passage (9, 11) and an annulus of the passage for opening the associated bypass passage. It can move from the extended second position.
With the gate-type mechanism 12, the active configuration of the flow path can be selectively changed between the first active configuration shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 and the second active configuration shown in FIG.
In the first active configuration, the upstream and downstream arrangements of the gate members 13 that are coupled to the first stator-rotor module 6 are substantially flush with the outer frame 4 for closing the first bypass passage 9. Move to each first position. In this first active configuration, the working fluid can flow through the first stator and act on the first rotor to rotate. The gate members 13 upstream and downstream of the second stator-rotor module 7 are in a second position extending across the flow path for opening the second bypass path 11, and the working fluid is the second stator-rotor. Detour 7 It will be appreciated that the first active configuration is employed when airflow is flowing from left to right in the alignment shown in FIGS.
Referring now to FIG. 5, a second active configuration is employed when the airflow changes airflow from right to left with respect to the alignment shown in the figure. In this configuration, the upstream and downstream arrangements of the gate members 13 that are coupled to the second stator-rotor module 7 are arranged in the first positions substantially flush with the outer frame 4 for closing the second bypass passage 9. Move to. In this second active configuration, the working fluid flows through the second stator and acts on and rotates the second stator. The upstream and downstream gate members 13 of the first stator-rotor module 6 are in respective second positions extending across the flow path for opening the first bypass path 9, and the working fluid is the first stator-rotor. Bypass module 6
From the above description, it is recognized that the stator of each energy conversion module (6, 7) is downstream of each rotor relative to the associated flow direction of the working fluid due to the change in direction of the working fluid resulting from the vibration Will.

The stator is adapted to divert the path or flow path of the working fluid and facilitate rotation of the associated rotor in a given direction. In particular, the first and second stator-rotor modules (6, 7) are configured such that both rotors rotate in the same direction.
The electric generator having a pair of terminals is disposed on the inner frame 3 and is connected to both the first and second rotors via the drive shafts 15. Accordingly, when the flow control means configures the flow path in the first active configuration and the air flow is in the first direction, the first rotor drives the electric generator. When the flow control means configures the flow path in the second active configuration and the airflow is in the second direction, the second rotor drives the electric generator. It will be appreciated that this unidirectional rotation of the rotor and such an electric generator provides an advantageous improvement in efficiency in generating electricity from a vibrating water cylinder. In particular, it has been found that an efficiency improvement in the range of about 20 to 25% can be achieved with certain preferred embodiments of the turbine.
Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, the present invention provides a turbine 20 for extracting energy from an oscillating working fluid, such as oscillating airflow generated by the oscillating water cylinder of an ocean wave energy extraction system. To do.
The turbine 20 includes a housing 21 having an inner frame 22 and an outer frame 23 for defining a working fluid flow path therebetween. The inner and outer frames are generally cylindrical and the cross section of the flow path is annular.
The energy conversion unit includes a first stator or nozzle 24, the rotor 25 includes a plurality of blades, and the second stator or nozzle 26 is disposed in the housing 21.
The first stator 24 is disposed on the first side of the rotor 25 and includes a plurality of guide vanes disposed in a semicircular arch configuration to direct the air flow toward the first stator 24. Direct the rotor blade pressure face to rotate the rotor.
The second stator 24 is disposed on the second side opposite to the rotor 25 and includes a plurality of guide vanes disposed in a semicircular arch configuration to rotate the rotor with air flow. Therefore, turn to the pressure surface of the rotor blade. The semi-circular nozzle arch configuration of the second stator is preferably offset about 180 degrees relative to the arch configuration of the first stator 24.
A flow control means in the form of a gated mechanism is provided to change the configuration of the flow path. The gate type mechanism includes a first set of gate members 27 arranged on the same side of the rotor 25 as the first stator 24 and a second set of gate members arranged on the second side opposite to the rotor 25. 28.
Each set of gate members (27, 28) is arranged in a semi-circular arch configuration and is offset 180 degrees relative to the associated stator. The gate member is hinged so that when the working fluid flows towards that end of the turbine, it can move to a closed position to close the open part (in this case half) towards the flow path. ing. By closing the channel portion, it is recognized that the working fluid passes only through the stator through the open channel portion and acts on the rotor in a predetermined direction to rotate. As the airflow direction changes, the set of gate members on the first side of the rotor opens and the set of gate members on the second side opposite the rotor closes, or vice versa. That is, the upstream gate member opens and the downstream gate member closes depending on the direction of airflow.
The rotor is configured to rotate in the same direction regardless of the direction of airflow.
Referring now to the embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 15, a third embodiment of a turbine according to the present invention is depicted. In this embodiment, the turbine 30 is provided with an inlet stator 31, a rotor 32, and an outlet stator 33.
The rotor 32 has a central hub 34 that determines the rotation axis of the rotor. A plurality of symmetrical blades 35 are disposed around the hub 34 and extend from the hub 34. Each blade 35 generally has a crescent or arcuate profile with a concave surface 36 and a convex surface 37. The blade 35 is disposed around the hub 34, with the concave surface 36 being configured as the pressure surface of the blade and the convex surface 37 being configured as the suction surface of the blade.

The cross-sectional contours of each crescent-shaped blade 35 converge so that each blade has a substantially parallel outer tip 38. The outer tip 38 of each blade preferably has a smooth beveled profile, or otherwise a round profile, one that is not sharp or pointed. In certain embodiments, each outer tip 38 has a predetermined radius of curvature.
The inlet stator 31 has a plurality of guide vanes 39 and is provided adjacent to the rotor 32 to direct the working fluid toward the pressure surface 35 of the rotor blade 34. The inlet guide vane 39 directs the working fluid to the rotor blade 34 at a predetermined or desired flow angle.
The outlet stator 33 has a plurality of outlet guide vanes 40, is provided adjacent to the rotor 32, and directs the discharge flow away from the rotor.
It will be appreciated that the inlet and outlet stators are configured such that the role of the inlet and outlet stators is reversible to facilitate operation in both directions or oscillating fluid flow. That is, for the air flow from the inlet end, the inlet guide vane directs the air flow toward the pressure surface of the rotor blade, and for the air flow from the outlet end, the outlet guide vane directs the air flow to the rotor blade pressure. The rotor always rotates in the same direction toward the surface.
Each inlet and outlet guide vane (39, 40) has a symmetrically curved cross-sectional profile with a concave surface 41 and a convex surface 42.
Each guide (39, 40) has a leading edge 43, an intermediate portion 44, and a trailing edge 45. The intermediate portion 44 of each stationary blade is preferably closer to the leading edge 43 than the trailing edge 45 when the stationary blade functions as an inlet stationary blade.
The leading and trailing edges have substantially smooth contours, otherwise round contours, each vane is not sharp or pointed, and the leading edge has a radius of curvature that is greater than the trailing edge radius of curvature. Is also big.
The present invention thus provides a robust turbine with improved efficiency, at least in its preferred embodiments. The turbine can conveniently extract an increased amount of energy from the oscillating or bidirectional working fluid. In particular, in certain preferred embodiments of this turbine, an increase in efficiency can be conveniently achieved in the range of up to about 20% compared to turbines currently used in ocean wave energy extraction systems. In these and other respects, the present invention in its preferred embodiments represents a significant improvement in practice and commerce over the prior art.
Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims (30)

A turbine for extracting energy from a vibrating working fluid,
A housing defining a flow path for the working fluid;
An energy converter disposed in the housing;
A flow control means,
The turbine, wherein the flow control means is selectively movable to block a predetermined part of the flow path so that the working fluid is guided and acts on a part of the energy converter. The turbine according to claim 1,
The flow control means includes
A first configuration in which the flow control means blocks a first position of the flow path, and the working fluid can act on the first working part of the energy conversion part;
A second configuration in which the flow control means blocks a second position of the flow path, and the working fluid can act on the second working part of the energy conversion part;
The turbine is movable to change the configuration of the flow path between The turbine according to claim 2,
The said flow control means is a turbine which changes the structure of the said flow path according to the change in the flow direction of the said working fluid. A turbine according to any of the preceding claims,
The flow control means includes a first control mechanism on a first side of the energy conversion module, and a second control mechanism on a second side of the energy conversion module. The turbine according to claim 4,
When the working fluid is flowing in a first predetermined direction, the first control mechanism blocks a part of the flow path, and the working fluid acts only on the first working part of the energy conversion part. When the working fluid is flowing in the second predetermined direction, the second control mechanism blocks the other part of the flow path, and the working fluid is only the second working part of the energy conversion part. Can act on the turbine The turbine according to claim 4 or 5, wherein
The turbine, wherein the first and second control mechanisms are slidable between a blocking and an open position, respectively. The turbine according to claim 4 or 5, wherein
The turbine, wherein the first and second control mechanisms are rotatable between a blocking and an open position, respectively. The turbine according to claim 7, comprising:
The first control mechanism includes a rotatable element, the second control mechanism includes a rotatable element, and the rotatable element is arranged to selectively block each portion of the flow path. The turbine. The turbine according to claim 8, comprising:
The turbine wherein the rotatable element corresponds in shape to at least a portion of a cross section of the flow path. The turbine according to claim 9, comprising:
The turbine, wherein the rotatable element is one of a semi-circular disk and an annular disk. A turbine according to any one of claims 8 to 10,
The turbine, wherein the rotatable elements are offset from each other by 180 degrees and obstruct the opposite half of the cross section of the flow path. A turbine according to claim 11, comprising:
Both rotatable elements rotate simultaneously up to 180 degrees relative to each other in response to a change in the fluid flow direction from the first flow direction to the second flow direction, and the working fluid is A turbine capable of acting on each of the first and second working parts. The turbine according to claim 4 or 5, wherein
The first control mechanism includes a first gate type mechanism movable between an open position and a closed position for blocking the first position of the flow path; and
The second control mechanism includes a second gate type mechanism that is movable between an open position and a closed position for blocking the second position of the flow path. A turbine according to claim 13, comprising:
The first and second gate type mechanisms include a partitioned gate arrangement. A turbine according to any one of the preceding claims,
A first nozzle for directing a working fluid flowing in a first predetermined direction toward the first working part of the energy conversion part;
When the working fluid is flowing in the first predetermined direction, the first nozzle is disposed upstream of the energy conversion unit. A turbine according to any one of the preceding claims,
A second nozzle for directing a working fluid flowing in a second predetermined direction to the second working part of the energy conversion part;
When the working fluid flows in the second predetermined direction, the second nozzle is disposed on the upstream side of the energy conversion unit. The turbine of claim 16, comprising:
The turbine, wherein the first and second nozzles are arranged geometrically on the opposite half of the cross section of the flow path and on the opposite side of the energy conversion unit. A turbine according to any one of claims 15 to 17,
The first nozzle includes a plurality of guide vanes arranged to have a circumferential range of about 180 degrees around a cross section of the flow path. A turbine according to claim 16 or 17,
The second nozzle includes a plurality of guide vanes arranged to have a circumferential range of about 180 degrees around a cross section of the flow path. A turbine according to any one of the preceding claims,
The said housing is a turbine which has an inner side housing and an outer side housing arrange | positioned so that the cross section of the said flow path may become cyclic | annular. A turbine according to any one of the preceding claims,
The said energy conversion part is a turbine containing the rotor supported in order to rotate in the said flow path. The turbine according to claim 21, wherein
The turbine, wherein the rotor is adapted to rotate in a single direction, the direction of rotation being independent of the direction of flow of the working fluid. A turbine according to claim 21 or 22,
The rotor includes a central hub and a plurality of blades arranged around the hub and extending from the periphery of the hub, and the plurality of blades are arranged in the flow path. A turbine according to claim 23, wherein
A turbine, wherein the rotor is arranged to be substantially perpendicular to the direction of fluid flow such that the rotor rotates about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing. A turbine according to claim 23 or 24,
Each blade has a pressure side surface and a suction side surface. 26. A turbine according to claim 25, wherein
The turbine, wherein the pressure-side surface of each blade is concave and the suction-side surfaces are convex. A turbine according to any one of the claims,
The first and second operating parts of the energy conversion unit are turbines that are predetermined parts of the rotor, respectively. 28. A turbine according to claim 27, wherein
The first and second operating parts are turbines that are in a predetermined circumferential range of the rotor. A turbine according to claim 28, comprising:
The turbine, wherein the first and second working parts are each about half of the working surface of the rotor. 28. A turbine according to claim 27, wherein
The first and second operating parts are turbines, each of which is a predetermined number of continuous rotor blades.

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