WO2001025629A1 - Method and apparatus for utilizing wind energy - Google Patents

Method and apparatus for utilizing wind energy Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2001025629A1
WO2001025629A1 PCT/NL2000/000708 NL0000708W WO0125629A1 WO 2001025629 A1 WO2001025629 A1 WO 2001025629A1 NL 0000708 W NL0000708 W NL 0000708W WO 0125629 A1 WO0125629 A1 WO 0125629A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
pressure zone
pipe
under
outlet opening
energy
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/NL2000/000708
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Paulus Johannes Maria Grove
Original Assignee
G & L Exclusives B.V.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by G & L Exclusives B.V. filed Critical G & L Exclusives B.V.
Priority to AU10621/01A priority Critical patent/AU1062101A/en
Publication of WO2001025629A1 publication Critical patent/WO2001025629A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
    • F03B17/00—Other machines or engines
    • F03B17/06—Other machines or engines using liquid flow with predominantly kinetic energy conversion, e.g. of swinging-flap type, "run-of-river", "ultra-low head"
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
    • F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
    • F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
    • F03B13/08—Machine or engine aggregates in dams or the like; Conduits therefor, e.g. diffusors
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D5/00—Other wind motors
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F03D—WIND MOTORS
    • F03D9/00—Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
    • F04F—PUMPING OF FLUID BY DIRECT CONTACT OF ANOTHER FLUID OR BY USING INERTIA OF FLUID TO BE PUMPED; SIPHONS
    • F04F5/00—Jet pumps, i.e. devices in which flow is induced by pressure drop caused by velocity of another fluid flow
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/20—Hydro energy
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/70—Wind energy
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
    • Y02E10/70—Wind energy
    • Y02E10/72—Wind turbines with rotation axis in wind direction

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for utilizing wind energy, wherein an air stream is conducted via an element that increases the stream velocity so that an underpressure zone is created, wherein the under-pressure zone created by the element increasing the stream velocity is utilized for the generation of a second fluid stream in a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening by placing the outlet opening of the pipe in the underpressure zone, which second fluid stream generated in the pipe is subsequently utilized for the generation of energy at a location upstream from the outlet opening.
  • a method for the utilization of wind energy is known from practice and is applied, for example, in the use of windmills.
  • the blade of the windmill forms an element that increases the stream velocity, resulting in an under-pressure zone.
  • the drawback of the above-mentioned known method is, that a rotating or other dynamic element is used to obtain the under-pressure zone.
  • Said dynamic elements have to be able to withstand very rough weather conditions, such as for example, a storm with a hurricane force wind speed. Therefore the dynamic elements have to be very heavy and have to be made of very durable and costly materials to prevent the elements from coming loose.
  • the known method involves considerable noise pollution caused by the rotation of movable parts such as the blades of a windmill .
  • JP-57206778 relates to a method of the utilization of flow energy by utilizing the venturi action of a water stream.
  • FR-2,379,709 relates to an orientable wing for the utilization of wind energy.
  • US-4, 076,448 relates to a water turbine for the utilization of the energy of a water stream.
  • WO 91/17359 relates to a hydroelectric energy conversion system, in which the energy of a water stream is utilized.
  • a method according to the preamble is known from
  • US-5, 709,419 relates to a method and apparatus for collecting energy from wind by means of the Bernoulli effect and its conversion into usable forms of energy. It is an object of the present invention to provide an even second fluid stream in the pipe such as to avoid excessive stress on a means, e.g. a turbine, for generating energy from the second fluid stream.
  • a means e.g. a turbine
  • This object is attained in accordance with the present invention by a method for utilizing wind energy, wherein an air stream is conducted along an element increasing the stream velocity such as to create an under-pressure zone, wherein the under-pressure zone created by the element increasing the stream velocity is used for the generation of a second fluid stream in a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening by placing the outlet opening of the pipe in the under-pressure zone, which second fluid stream generated in the pipe is subsequently used at a site upstream from the outlet opening for the generation of energy, characterized in that the under-pressure downstream from the site for energy generation, is buffered.
  • This provides an even second fluid stream in the pipe, thereby avoiding excessive stress on a means, e.g.
  • the under- pressure in the pipe may be buffered by the inclusion of a surge chamber or surge tank in the pipe, or by means of local expansions in the pipe.
  • wind energy is utilized by simple means.
  • An important advantage of the method according to the present invention is that no visibly rotating parts are used. In the case of wind energy this means less destruction to the skyline. Moreover, less maintenance will be required since according to the invention no movable - and usually maintenance-prone - parts need to be exposed to inclement weather conditions. Also, with the method according to the invention there are no bird casualties.
  • any element that ensures a (local) increase in stream velocity may be used as the element for increasing the stream velocity.
  • a "fluid stream” may also be a liquid stream (such as water) .
  • a convex surface be used as the element for increasing the stream velocity.
  • the result of conducting the air stream along the convex surface is that the stream velocity increases considerably.
  • convex surface it is possible to use, for example, a plastic or metal surface. It is also possible, for example, to use convex surfaces that are already present, such as, for example a dike, a wall of a building, Delta works or the like. It is also possible to use different buildings of a convex shape. In principle one single convex surface suffices to increase the stream velocity, thereby producing an underpressure zone. It is preferred however, for the air stream conducted along the convex surface also to be conducted along a second surface, the second surface being positioned in relation to the first surface such that an opening is created between the first and the second surface .
  • an over-pressure zone is created and an inlet opening of the pipe located upstream from the site of energy generation, is positioned in the over-pressure zone.
  • An over-pressure may, for example, be created by placing an object into the air stream, with the result that in front of the object an accumulation of air
  • the over-pressure is buffered downstream from the site of energy generation, in order to obtain an even second fluid stream in the pipe such as to avoid excessive stress on a means, such as a turbine, for the generation of energy.
  • the invention also relates to an apparatus for the utilization of wind energy wherein the apparatus comprises :
  • this provides an even second fluid stream through the pipe between the outlet opening and the means for generating energy.
  • an under-pressure zone generated by wind is utilized in a simple manner.
  • the outlet opening of the pipe may in use be placed in a wind- generated under-pressure zone near a dike, building or the like.
  • the under-pressure zone in turn generates a second fluid stream in the pipe in the direction of the outlet opening. Said second fluid stream may subsequently be used for the generation of energy.
  • a further advantage of the apparatus according to the present invention compared with the known apparatus such as a windmill is, that the apparatus according to the invention can be constructed to be virtually vibration- free; this makes it possible for the apparatus to also be placed inside or on the exterior of existing constructions .
  • the apparatus since no maintenance-prone parts, such as for instance a turbine, are exposed to weather conditions, the apparatus requires practically no maintenance.
  • the turbine will be driven by a second fluid stream generated by the air stream in the pipe instead of by the air stream, i.e. wind, itself. This means that the turbine will receive fewer "blows" , since the second fluid stream is much more even than the air stream.
  • the apparatus comprises an adjustable static element increasing the stream velocity, along which element an air stream is conducted to create an under-pressure zone.
  • this stream velocity- increasing element is a convex surface.
  • the apparatus according to the invention will comprise a static surface that can be adjusted to the stream velocity and the direction of the wind. In use, i.e. during the actual generation of energy, the static surface will not move, which distinguishes it from the rotating parts of a known windmill.
  • the apparatus in addition comprises a second surface, with the convex side of the first surface oriented toward the second surface, forming a gap between them.
  • the second surface is also a convex surface, with the convex side of the first surface oriented toward the convex side of the second surface. This further enhances the underpressures .
  • the apparatus may basically comprise any possible means suitable for the purpose.
  • the means for generating energy be chosen from a turbine and a piston system.
  • the apparatus comprises means for providing an over-pressure zone, wherein in use the inlet opening may be placed in the over-pressure zone obtained.
  • the apparatus In order to maintain an even second fluid stream in the pipe, it is preferred that between the inlet opening and the means for generating energy the apparatus comprise a buffer for the over-pressure zone.
  • the present invention also relates to electricity generated by applying the method or apparatus according to the invention.
  • FIG. 1 a front view in perspective of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • FIG. 3 a cross-sectional top view of the apparatus according to Figure 2 ;
  • FIG. 4 a schematic diagram of a part of a possible embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a pipe 1 with an inlet opening 2 and an outlet opening 3.
  • the outlet opening 3 of the pipe 1 is placed at an under-pressure zone 4, which is created by wind (the first fluid stream) accumulating at a dune 5.
  • the outlet opening 3 may also be placed at a hill, dike, or the like.
  • the pipe 1 may have more than one inlet opening 2 and outlet opening 3.
  • the under-pressure zone 4 will generate a second fluid stream in the pipe 1, from the inlet opening 2 in the direction of the outlet opening 3.
  • a gas such as air may be used, but also a liquid such as, for example, water.
  • the second fluid stream generated in the pipe 1 is used for generating energy with the aid of a means 6 that is in communication with the pipe.
  • Said means 6 for generating energy is located upstream from the outlet opening 3.
  • means 6 it is possible to use, for example, a piston system but also, and this is preferred, a turbine. To save costs, there will preferably only be one turbine 6 per pipe 1.
  • a preferably convex adjustable static surface 7 (indicated by the dotted line) , may be provided above the dune 5 to enhance the effect of fluid-flow acceleration.
  • the surface 7 may have a permanent position; however, the surface 7 may also be adjustable such that said surface 7 may be adjusted subject to the wind force and wind direction.
  • Figure 2 shows a front view in perspective of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
  • Figure 2 shows a plurality of surfaces 7 placed parallel in relation to each other.
  • the surfaces 7 are convex on both sides, leaving a narrow gap 8 between the surfaces 7.
  • under-pressure zones 4 develop. Due to the fact that the outlet opening 3 of the pipe 1 in use is placed in an under-pressure zone 4, a second fluid stream is generated in the pipe 1.
  • the second fluid stream generated in the pipe 1 is used for generating energy with the aid of a means 6 that is in communication with the pipe 1, such as a turbine.
  • the second fluid stream produced in the pipe 1 undergoes extra acceleration due to the presence of inlet openings 2 that are placed in an over-pressure zone (not shown) .
  • Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional top view of the apparatus according to Figure 2. It can be clearly seen that the surfaces 7 are convex at both sides, leaving a narrow opening 8 between the two surfaces 7.
  • FIG. 4 finally shows a schematic diagram of a part of a possible apparatus according to the invention.
  • a pipe 1 with an inlet opening 2 and an outlet opening 3.
  • an under- pressure zone 4 and an over-pressure zone 9 develop, generating a second fluid stream through the pipe 1 from the inlet opening 2 to the outlet opening 3 , driving the turbine 6 or the like.
  • surge tanks 10 and 11 are provided between the turbine 6 and the inlet opening 2 and outlet opening 3. Said surge tanks 10 and 11 prevent that the fluid' s stream velocity in the pipe 1 fluctuates too much for the turbine 6.
  • the surge tanks 10 and 11 may be provided with non-return valves (not shown) .
  • Non-return valves may also be provided at other positions in the pipe 1.
  • Conceivable options are, for example, wing-shaped plates mounted under or above bridges; convex surfaces mounted near wind guards along motorways, canals, etc.
  • Other means commonly used in fluid dynamics, in particular in aerodynamics may also be provided for adapting the wind speed or the stream velocity in general, such as, for example, 'flaps' known from the wings of aeroplanes .

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for utilizing wind energy, wherein a fluid stream such as wind is conducted via an element that increases the stream velocity so that an under-pressure zone is created. The present invention is characterized in that the under-pressure zone created by the element increasing the stream velocity is utilized for the generation of a second fluid stream in a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening by placing the outlet opening of the pipe in the under-pressure zone, which second fluid stream generated in the pipe is subsequently utilized for the generation of energy at a location upstream from the outlet opening. The invention also relates to an apparatus for the utilization of wind energy, and to electricity generated by applying the method or apparatus according to the invention. Licensing an assignment is possible.

Description

Method and apparatus for utilizing wind energy
The invention relates to a method for utilizing wind energy, wherein an air stream is conducted via an element that increases the stream velocity so that an underpressure zone is created, wherein the under-pressure zone created by the element increasing the stream velocity is utilized for the generation of a second fluid stream in a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening by placing the outlet opening of the pipe in the underpressure zone, which second fluid stream generated in the pipe is subsequently utilized for the generation of energy at a location upstream from the outlet opening.
A method for the utilization of wind energy is known from practice and is applied, for example, in the use of windmills. The blade of the windmill forms an element that increases the stream velocity, resulting in an under-pressure zone.
The drawback of the above-mentioned known method is, that a rotating or other dynamic element is used to obtain the under-pressure zone. Said dynamic elements have to be able to withstand very rough weather conditions, such as for example, a storm with a hurricane force wind speed. Therefore the dynamic elements have to be very heavy and have to be made of very durable and costly materials to prevent the elements from coming loose.
Another drawback of the above-mentioned known method is that, partly because movable parts are used that are exposed to all weather conditions, these movable parts require maintenance. This maintenance is moreover very costly as said movable parts are usually located high above the ground.
Another drawback of the known method is that its application contributes considerably to the destruction of the skyline. For example, windmills are usually erect-ed in the open countryside, making them all the more conspicuous. However, the erection of windmills in urban areas is no real possibility because of the danger of movable parts coming loose. The erection of a windmill on top of a building is also not possible because of the windmill's heavy construction and the vibrations caused in use, for example by vibrations of the movable parts of the windmill .
In addition, the known method involves considerable noise pollution caused by the rotation of movable parts such as the blades of a windmill .
Moreover, there are many casualties among birds (and migrating birds) coming between the rotating blades of the windmills. According to its abstract, JP-57206778 relates to a method of the utilization of flow energy by utilizing the venturi action of a water stream.
FR-2,379,709 relates to an orientable wing for the utilization of wind energy. US-4, 076,448 relates to a water turbine for the utilization of the energy of a water stream.
WO 91/17359 relates to a hydroelectric energy conversion system, in which the energy of a water stream is utilized. A method according to the preamble is known from
US-5, 709,419. US-5, 709,419 relates to a method and apparatus for collecting energy from wind by means of the Bernoulli effect and its conversion into usable forms of energy. It is an object of the present invention to provide an even second fluid stream in the pipe such as to avoid excessive stress on a means, e.g. a turbine, for generating energy from the second fluid stream. This object is attained in accordance with the present invention by a method for utilizing wind energy, wherein an air stream is conducted along an element increasing the stream velocity such as to create an under-pressure zone, wherein the under-pressure zone created by the element increasing the stream velocity is used for the generation of a second fluid stream in a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening by placing the outlet opening of the pipe in the under-pressure zone, which second fluid stream generated in the pipe is subsequently used at a site upstream from the outlet opening for the generation of energy, characterized in that the under-pressure downstream from the site for energy generation, is buffered. This provides an even second fluid stream in the pipe, thereby avoiding excessive stress on a means, e.g. a turbine used for the generation of (for example, mechanical or electrical) energy from the second fluid stream. When air is the second fluid stream, the under- pressure in the pipe may be buffered by the inclusion of a surge chamber or surge tank in the pipe, or by means of local expansions in the pipe.
In the method according to the present invention wind energy is utilized by simple means. An important advantage of the method according to the present invention is that no visibly rotating parts are used. In the case of wind energy this means less destruction to the skyline. Moreover, less maintenance will be required since according to the invention no movable - and usually maintenance-prone - parts need to be exposed to inclement weather conditions. Also, with the method according to the invention there are no bird casualties.
Basically any element that ensures a (local) increase in stream velocity may be used as the element for increasing the stream velocity. For example, it is possible to make use of corners, the edge of a roof or a ridge on a building to (locally) increase the windspeed.
Apart from a gas stream (for example air) , a "fluid stream" may also be a liquid stream (such as water) .
In accordance with the method of the invention, it is preferred that as the element for increasing the stream velocity a convex surface be used. The result of conducting the air stream along the convex surface is that the stream velocity increases considerably.
As convex surface it is possible to use, for example, a plastic or metal surface. It is also possible, for example, to use convex surfaces that are already present, such as, for example a dike, a wall of a building, Delta works or the like. It is also possible to use different buildings of a convex shape. In principle one single convex surface suffices to increase the stream velocity, thereby producing an underpressure zone. It is preferred however, for the air stream conducted along the convex surface also to be conducted along a second surface, the second surface being positioned in relation to the first surface such that an opening is created between the first and the second surface .
Moreover, according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the present invention, an over-pressure zone is created and an inlet opening of the pipe located upstream from the site of energy generation, is positioned in the over-pressure zone.
This accelerates the flow of the second fluid stream in the pipe. An over-pressure may, for example, be created by placing an object into the air stream, with the result that in front of the object an accumulation of air
- i.e. the over-pressure - is produced.
Preferably the over-pressure is buffered downstream from the site of energy generation, in order to obtain an even second fluid stream in the pipe such as to avoid excessive stress on a means, such as a turbine, for the generation of energy.
The invention also relates to an apparatus for the utilization of wind energy wherein the apparatus comprises :
- a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, which outlet opening is placed such that in use, it is positioned in an under-pressure zone generated by an air stream, which under-pressure zone in use, generates a second fluid stream in the pipe, in the direction of the outlet opening: - a means in communication with the pipe and positioned upstream from the outlet opening, for the generation of energy from the in use created second fluid stream, characterized in that between the outlet opening and the means for generating energy, the apparatus comprises a buffer for the under-pressure zone.
In use, this provides an even second fluid stream through the pipe between the outlet opening and the means for generating energy.
With the apparatus according to the present invention an under-pressure zone generated by wind is utilized in a simple manner. For example, the outlet opening of the pipe may in use be placed in a wind- generated under-pressure zone near a dike, building or the like. In use, the under-pressure zone in turn generates a second fluid stream in the pipe in the direction of the outlet opening. Said second fluid stream may subsequently be used for the generation of energy.
A further advantage of the apparatus according to the present invention compared with the known apparatus such as a windmill is, that the apparatus according to the invention can be constructed to be virtually vibration- free; this makes it possible for the apparatus to also be placed inside or on the exterior of existing constructions . Moreover, since no maintenance-prone parts, such as for instance a turbine, are exposed to weather conditions, the apparatus requires practically no maintenance. Also, the turbine will be driven by a second fluid stream generated by the air stream in the pipe instead of by the air stream, i.e. wind, itself. This means that the turbine will receive fewer "blows" , since the second fluid stream is much more even than the air stream. According to a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the invention, the apparatus comprises an adjustable static element increasing the stream velocity, along which element an air stream is conducted to create an under-pressure zone. Preferably this stream velocity- increasing element is a convex surface. Generally the apparatus according to the invention will comprise a static surface that can be adjusted to the stream velocity and the direction of the wind. In use, i.e. during the actual generation of energy, the static surface will not move, which distinguishes it from the rotating parts of a known windmill.
It has been shown that better results have been obtained with the apparatus according to the invention, if the apparatus in addition comprises a second surface, with the convex side of the first surface oriented toward the second surface, forming a gap between them. Preferably the second surface is also a convex surface, with the convex side of the first surface oriented toward the convex side of the second surface. This further enhances the underpressures .
As means for generating energy, the apparatus may basically comprise any possible means suitable for the purpose. However, according to the present invention it is preferred that the means for generating energy be chosen from a turbine and a piston system.
According to a further preferred embodiment the apparatus comprises means for providing an over-pressure zone, wherein in use the inlet opening may be placed in the over-pressure zone obtained.
This accelerates the second fluid stream in the pipe of the apparatus.
In order to maintain an even second fluid stream in the pipe, it is preferred that between the inlet opening and the means for generating energy the apparatus comprise a buffer for the over-pressure zone.
The present invention also relates to electricity generated by applying the method or apparatus according to the invention.
Hereinbelow the invention will be further elucidated with reference to a description of the figures. Similar parts are identified by identical reference numbers .
Shown is in:
- Figure 1, a schematic cross-sectional side view of the apparatus according to the invention;
- Figure 2 a front view in perspective of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention;
- Figure 3 a cross-sectional top view of the apparatus according to Figure 2 ; and
- Figure 4 a schematic diagram of a part of a possible embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention.
Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of a pipe 1 with an inlet opening 2 and an outlet opening 3. The outlet opening 3 of the pipe 1 is placed at an under-pressure zone 4, which is created by wind (the first fluid stream) accumulating at a dune 5. Naturally, instead of at a dune 5, the outlet opening 3 may also be placed at a hill, dike, or the like. Also, the pipe 1 may have more than one inlet opening 2 and outlet opening 3. In use, the under-pressure zone 4 will generate a second fluid stream in the pipe 1, from the inlet opening 2 in the direction of the outlet opening 3. As fluid in the pipe 1 a gas such as air may be used, but also a liquid such as, for example, water. In accordance with the present invention, the second fluid stream generated in the pipe 1 is used for generating energy with the aid of a means 6 that is in communication with the pipe. Said means 6 for generating energy is located upstream from the outlet opening 3. As means 6 it is possible to use, for example, a piston system but also, and this is preferred, a turbine. To save costs, there will preferably only be one turbine 6 per pipe 1. As the means 6 is not exposed to rough weather conditions such as storm, rain and freezing rain, the means 6 requires little maintenance. Optionally a preferably convex adjustable static surface 7 (indicated by the dotted line) , may be provided above the dune 5 to enhance the effect of fluid-flow acceleration. The surface 7 may have a permanent position; however, the surface 7 may also be adjustable such that said surface 7 may be adjusted subject to the wind force and wind direction.
Figure 2 shows a front view in perspective of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention. Figure 2 shows a plurality of surfaces 7 placed parallel in relation to each other. As can be clearly seen in Figure 3, the surfaces 7 are convex on both sides, leaving a narrow gap 8 between the surfaces 7. When a wind or water stream passes through the narrowed openings 8 (the arrows in the figure indicate the flow direction) , under-pressure zones 4 develop. Due to the fact that the outlet opening 3 of the pipe 1 in use is placed in an under-pressure zone 4, a second fluid stream is generated in the pipe 1. Subsequently, in a manner analogous with that of Figure 1, the second fluid stream generated in the pipe 1 is used for generating energy with the aid of a means 6 that is in communication with the pipe 1, such as a turbine. The second fluid stream produced in the pipe 1 undergoes extra acceleration due to the presence of inlet openings 2 that are placed in an over-pressure zone (not shown) .
Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional top view of the apparatus according to Figure 2. It can be clearly seen that the surfaces 7 are convex at both sides, leaving a narrow opening 8 between the two surfaces 7.
Figure 4 finally shows a schematic diagram of a part of a possible apparatus according to the invention. There is a schematic illustration of a pipe 1 with an inlet opening 2 and an outlet opening 3. In use, an under- pressure zone 4 and an over-pressure zone 9 develop, generating a second fluid stream through the pipe 1 from the inlet opening 2 to the outlet opening 3 , driving the turbine 6 or the like. Between the turbine 6 and the inlet opening 2 and outlet opening 3, surge tanks 10 and 11, respectively, are provided. Said surge tanks 10 and 11 prevent that the fluid' s stream velocity in the pipe 1 fluctuates too much for the turbine 6. Moreover, in this manner it is possible to take maximum advantage of the wind energy present in, for example, gusts of wind. The surge tanks 10 and 11 may be provided with non-return valves (not shown) . Non-return valves may also be provided at other positions in the pipe 1. The present invention is not limited to the above- described embodiments but may be varied in numerous ways, all within the scope of the appended claims. Conceivable options are, for example, wing-shaped plates mounted under or above bridges; convex surfaces mounted near wind guards along motorways, canals, etc. Other means commonly used in fluid dynamics, in particular in aerodynamics may also be provided for adapting the wind speed or the stream velocity in general, such as, for example, 'flaps' known from the wings of aeroplanes .

Claims

1. A method for utilizing wind energy, wherein an air stream is conducted via an element that increases the stream velocity so that an under-pressure zone is created, wherein the under-pressure zone created by the element increasing the stream velocity is utilized for the generation of a second fluid stream in a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening by placing the outlet opening of the pipe in the under-pressure zone, which second fluid stream generated in the pipe is subsequently utilized for the generation of energy at *a location upstream from the outlet opening, characterized in that the under-pressure downstream from the site for energy generation, is buffered.
2. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that as the element for increasing the stream velocity a convex surface be used.
3. A method according to claim 2 , characterized in that the air stream conducted along the convex surface is also conducted along a second surface, the second surface being positioned in relation to the first surface such that an opening is created between the first and the second surface.
4. A method according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that moreover an over-pressure zone is created and an inlet opening of the pipe located upstream from the site of energy generation is positioned in the over-pressure zone.
5. A method according to claim 4 , characterized in that the under-pressure downstream from the site for energy generation, is buffered.
6. An apparatus for the utilization of wind energy wherein the apparatus comprises:
- a pipe with an inlet opening and an outlet opening, which outlet opening is placed such that in use, it is positioned in an under-pressure zone generated by an air stream, which under-pressure zone in use, generates a second fluid stream in the pipe, in the direction of the outlet opening
- a means in communication with the pipe and positioned upstream from the outlet opening, for the generation of energy from the in use created second fluid stream, characterized in that between the outlet opening and the means for generating energy, the apparatus comprises a buffer for the under-pressure zone
7. An apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the apparatus comprises an adjustable static element increasing the stream velocity, along which element an air stream is conducted to create an under-pressure zone.
8. An apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that the stream velocity-increasing element is a convex surface.
9. An apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that the apparatus in addition comprises a second surface, with the convex side of the first surface oriented toward the second surface, forming a gap between them.
10. An apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the second surface is a convex surface, with the convex side of the first surface oriented toward the convex side of the second surface.
11. An apparatus according to one of the claims 6
- 10, characterized in that the means for generating energy is chosen from a turbine and a piston system.
12. An apparatus according to one of the claims 6
- 11, characterized in that the apparatus comprises means for providing an over-pressure zone.
13. An apparatus according to claim 12 , characterized in that the inlet opening is placed in the over-pressure zone obtained in use.
14. An apparatus according to claim 13 , characterized in that between the inlet opening and the means for generating energy, the apparatus comprises a buffer for the over-pressure zone.
15. Electricity generated by applying the method or apparatus according to one of the preceding claims.
PCT/NL2000/000708 1999-10-04 2000-10-03 Method and apparatus for utilizing wind energy WO2001025629A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU10621/01A AU1062101A (en) 1999-10-04 2000-10-03 Method and apparatus for utilizing wind energy

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL1013205 1999-10-04
NL1013205A NL1013205C2 (en) 1999-10-04 1999-10-04 Method and device for utilizing wind energy and electricity generated by applying the method or device.

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2001025629A1 true WO2001025629A1 (en) 2001-04-12

Family

ID=19769987

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/NL2000/000708 WO2001025629A1 (en) 1999-10-04 2000-10-03 Method and apparatus for utilizing wind energy

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (1) AU1062101A (en)
NL (1) NL1013205C2 (en)
WO (1) WO2001025629A1 (en)

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2012000105A1 (en) * 2010-06-30 2012-01-05 Southern Alberta Institute Of Technology Apparatus for extracting energy from a fluid flow
WO2011114155A3 (en) * 2010-03-16 2012-03-08 Verderg Ltd Apparatus for generating power from fluid flow
WO2011114156A3 (en) * 2010-03-16 2012-03-08 Verderg Ltd Method and apparatus for generating power from current flow
WO2011114157A3 (en) * 2010-03-16 2012-03-08 Verderg Ltd System for ocean mixing
GB2478736B (en) * 2010-03-16 2014-08-27 Verderg Ltd Apparatus for generating power from fluid flow
WO2016054080A1 (en) * 2014-09-30 2016-04-07 Texas Tech University System Fluid flow energy extraction system and method related thereto
EP3045718A1 (en) * 2015-01-14 2016-07-20 Ali Ariana Device and process for transforming kinetic energy in electric energy
US9752549B2 (en) 2012-06-20 2017-09-05 Verderg Ltd Apparatus for converting energy from fluid flow
US10876513B2 (en) 2014-04-02 2020-12-29 Verderg Ltd Turbine assembly
US11391262B1 (en) 2021-08-26 2022-07-19 Aeromine Technologies, Inc. Systems and methods for fluid flow based renewable energy generation
US11879435B1 (en) 2023-06-21 2024-01-23 Aeromine Technologies, Inc. Systems and methods for cold-climate operation of a fluid-flow based energy generation system

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2014128600A2 (en) * 2013-02-21 2014-08-28 Bhanushali Dilip Vasantlal Injection engine for energy production
US11047360B1 (en) 2017-11-07 2021-06-29 National Technology & Engineering Solutions Of Sandia, Llc Methods, systems, and devices to optimize a fluid harvester

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4076448A (en) 1975-08-21 1978-02-28 Sanders Jr Davis A Power generating water turbine
FR2379709A1 (en) 1977-02-03 1978-09-01 Sivak Jozef Wind powered electricity generator - has vertical hollow aerofoil blade producing venturi depression in passage container turbine
JPS57206778A (en) 1981-06-12 1982-12-18 Kyuzo Kamata Electric power generation by air turbine utilizing hydroelectric generating penstock
WO1991017359A1 (en) 1990-04-27 1991-11-14 Hydro Energy Associates Limited Hydro-electric power conversion system
US5709419A (en) 1994-02-03 1998-01-20 Roskey; John E. Wind energy collection

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4076448A (en) 1975-08-21 1978-02-28 Sanders Jr Davis A Power generating water turbine
FR2379709A1 (en) 1977-02-03 1978-09-01 Sivak Jozef Wind powered electricity generator - has vertical hollow aerofoil blade producing venturi depression in passage container turbine
JPS57206778A (en) 1981-06-12 1982-12-18 Kyuzo Kamata Electric power generation by air turbine utilizing hydroelectric generating penstock
WO1991017359A1 (en) 1990-04-27 1991-11-14 Hydro Energy Associates Limited Hydro-electric power conversion system
US5709419A (en) 1994-02-03 1998-01-20 Roskey; John E. Wind energy collection

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
PATENT ABSTRACTS OF JAPAN vol. 007, no. 063 (M - 200) 16 March 1983 (1983-03-16) *

Cited By (18)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU2011228838B2 (en) * 2010-03-16 2015-11-26 Verderg Limited Apparatus for generating power from fluid flow
WO2011114156A3 (en) * 2010-03-16 2012-03-08 Verderg Ltd Method and apparatus for generating power from current flow
KR101761173B1 (en) * 2010-03-16 2017-08-04 베르드에르그 리미티드 Apparatus for Generation Power from Fluid Flow
WO2011114157A3 (en) * 2010-03-16 2012-03-08 Verderg Ltd System for ocean mixing
CN102792011A (en) * 2010-03-16 2012-11-21 维德格有限公司 Apparatus for generating power from fluid flow
JP2013522530A (en) * 2010-03-16 2013-06-13 ヴァーダーグ リミテッド Device for generating power from a fluid flow
GB2478736B (en) * 2010-03-16 2014-08-27 Verderg Ltd Apparatus for generating power from fluid flow
US9194361B2 (en) 2010-03-16 2015-11-24 Verderg Ltd Apparatus for generating power from fluid flow
WO2011114155A3 (en) * 2010-03-16 2012-03-08 Verderg Ltd Apparatus for generating power from fluid flow
WO2012000105A1 (en) * 2010-06-30 2012-01-05 Southern Alberta Institute Of Technology Apparatus for extracting energy from a fluid flow
US9752549B2 (en) 2012-06-20 2017-09-05 Verderg Ltd Apparatus for converting energy from fluid flow
US10876513B2 (en) 2014-04-02 2020-12-29 Verderg Ltd Turbine assembly
WO2016054080A1 (en) * 2014-09-30 2016-04-07 Texas Tech University System Fluid flow energy extraction system and method related thereto
US11118564B2 (en) 2014-09-30 2021-09-14 Texas Tech University System Fluid flow energy extraction system and method related thereto
EP3045718A1 (en) * 2015-01-14 2016-07-20 Ali Ariana Device and process for transforming kinetic energy in electric energy
WO2016113360A1 (en) * 2015-01-14 2016-07-21 Biip Cvba Device and process for transforming kinetic energy in electric energy
US11391262B1 (en) 2021-08-26 2022-07-19 Aeromine Technologies, Inc. Systems and methods for fluid flow based renewable energy generation
US11879435B1 (en) 2023-06-21 2024-01-23 Aeromine Technologies, Inc. Systems and methods for cold-climate operation of a fluid-flow based energy generation system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
NL1013205C2 (en) 2001-04-05
AU1062101A (en) 2001-05-10

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US7172386B2 (en) Wind and solar power plant with variable high speed rotor trains
US6841894B2 (en) Wind power generator having wind channeling body with progressively reduced section
RU2645187C2 (en) Vertical-axial wind and hydraulic turbine with flow control
US7199486B2 (en) System and method for converting wind into mechanical energy
US6710469B2 (en) Fluid-powered energy conversion device
US8459930B2 (en) Vertical multi-phased wind turbine system
US7484363B2 (en) Wind energy harnessing apparatuses, systems, methods, and improvements
CA2501025E (en) Habitat friendly, multiple impellor, wind energy extraction
US4915580A (en) Wind turbine runner impulse type
US9404474B2 (en) System and method for efficient wind power generation
KR20180116418A (en) Wind power generator combined with building
US9249807B2 (en) Fluidic flow capture and acceleration apparatus for hyper-conversion
WO2001025629A1 (en) Method and apparatus for utilizing wind energy
US8777556B2 (en) California wind engine
JP2008506877A5 (en)
JP2008506877A (en) Wind energy harvesting system
Kentfield Fundamentals/wind-driven water
WO2011035415A1 (en) Wind concentrator for wind turbine
US11156204B2 (en) Wind turbine
JP2013083264A (en) Wind power generation device
CN218669656U (en) Building wind energy diversion power generation system
KR20230169146A (en) wind generator
EA046037B1 (en) WIND GENERATOR
CN1512061A (en) Improved wind force recovering device
UA136722U (en) WIND ENERGY INSTALLATION

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AE AL AM AT AU AZ BA BB BG BR BY CA CH CN CR CU CZ DE DK DM EE ES FI GB GD GE GH GM HR HU ID IL IN IS JP KE KG KP KR KZ LC LK LR LS LT LU LV MA MD MG MK MN MW MX NO NZ PL PT RO RU SD SE SG SI SK SL TJ TM TR TT TZ UA UG US UZ VN YU ZA ZW

DFPE Request for preliminary examination filed prior to expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed before 20040101)
REG Reference to national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: 8642

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: JP