Device for generating electricity using river streams
Small size self-contained hydropower device with unique turbine design and other features to increase power output while remaining fully submerged during its operation in a river.
The displayed is an outside view of a 3D CAD Model. It may look simple from outside, but its internal components are uniquely designed such that several science concepts are effectively applied for generating powerful electricity with small design.
Device Innovation​
Ideation
While there are various methods available to generate electricity, then why such device is needed?
Imagine if a compact design less than a meter in size, remains fully submergible but generates more electricity than several solar panels or a wind turbine.
The idea behind this innovation was to keep the size small with capacity to generate higher power.
Usage
Having a idea of a device is nice but without clarity of its consumers and its usage is only half the story.
The device built to operate in rivers does offer many advantages like it can remain close to consumers where electricity demand is.
The distance the generated electricity does not have to travel long distances which is also a cost to electricity company.
Design
A device having patentable features is designed using CAD software tools.
The design of the turbine was determined based on physics principles. First, average water flow was estimated in the rivers. Next, the number of RPMs expected to generate substantial electricity with AC motor was determined.
Applying angular momentum formulas on river flow rate and RPMs, size and dimensions of turbine was determined.
Modelling
The CAD design was converted to 3D model and small scale version was 3D printed to validate the calculations.
In a small scale tank with a flowing water, the prototype was tested.
Evaluation
RPMs on the turbines were measured and calculations were run to extrapolate the size of a device to ensure the same RPMs can be observed when real device is built.
Based on measured RPMs and number of turbines that can be installed on device, final expected electrical output was determined.
Applications
The device and method of generating electricity carves out new approach to deliver electricity and overcome the limitations of exiting alternatives.
For example, the device can operate 24 hours a day and 7 days a week while comparatively generating higher total power.