HK1087752B

HK1087752B - Miniature hydro-power generation system

Info

Publication number: HK1087752B
Application number: HK06107969.6A
Authority: HK
Inventors: David W. Baarman; Terry Lee Lautzenheiser
Original assignee: Access Business Group International Llc
Priority date: 2002-10-09
Filing date: 2003-10-09
Publication date: 2009-06-05

Description

Small-sized hydroelectric power generation system

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to power generation and, more particularly, to hydroelectric power generation with a compact hydroelectric power generation system.

Background

Hydroelectric power generation, in which kinetic energy is extracted from flowing pressurized water and used to rotate a generator to produce electrical energy, is well known. In addition, it is known to use pressurized fluids such as gas, steam, etc. to rotate electrical generators. For large hydroelectric power generation operated with large-scale water sources such as rivers or dams, millions of megawatts of electricity can be generated using millions of gallons of flowing water. Thus, converting kinetic energy in flowing water into electrical energy may involve significant inefficiencies and may not provide an economical and acceptable level of performance.

As the size of hydroelectric power generation equipment becomes smaller, the amount of electricity generated also becomes smaller. In addition, the amount of flowing water from which kinetic energy is extracted becomes smaller. Therefore, the efficiency of converting kinetic energy in flowing water into electrical energy becomes important. When there are many inefficiencies, only a small amount of kinetic energy is extracted from the pressurized flowing water. Thus, the amount of electricity generated decreases as the hydro-power generation devices become smaller.

There are many small systems that include flowing pressurized fluid and require electrical energy to operate. Some examples include domestic water treatment systems, automatic plumbing fixtures, flow rate monitors, water testing equipment, and the like.

There are a number of different water treatment systems that include a carbon-based filter unit and an Ultraviolet (UV) unit to filter and purify water prior to use. Carbon-based filter units use inert materials to filter particulates and organic contaminants. The ultraviolet radiation emitted from the ultraviolet unit is used to neutralize harmful microorganisms present in the water.

To start the uv unit and any other power consuming systems in the water treatment system, a power source is required. Conventional water treatment systems use electrical power from a standard electrical outlet or battery power source to drive the electrical power required by all components in the water treatment system, including the ultraviolet light unit. In the case of water treatment systems powered by electrical outlets, the system limits portability and is inoperable when the electrical outlet power supply is damaged.

Water treatment systems operated from battery power include only a limited supply of electrical energy that may be used up during operation or storage of the water treatment system. In addition, the batteries must be capable of being replaced in order to make the water treatment system operable. If a long-lasting battery power source is desired, a larger battery is required, thereby significantly increasing the weight and size of the water treatment system.

Some existing water treatment systems are capable of using a standard electrical outlet or a battery power source that can be replenished by an electrical outlet power source. Although these water treatment systems do not require replacement batteries, the capacity and size of the batteries determines the operational length of the water treatment system, albeit operating on battery power. The battery power must also be constantly replenished with electrical outlet power. In addition, these water treatment systems require additional circuitry and components in order to be operated by two different electrical power sources.

Automatic plumbing fixtures such as toilet valves and sink faucets may include electrically operated valves and sensors. The sensor may detect the presence of a user of the automatic plumbing fixture and operate the electrically operated valve in response to providing a flow of water. Both the electrically operated valve and the sensor require electrical energy to operate. Electrical power may be obtained by installing a cable from the electrical panel to the automatic plumbing fixture. Where the automatic plumbing fixture is installed within an existing building, installation of the electrical distribution board and/or cable is costly, time consuming and difficult.

For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for a miniature hydro-power generation device that is small enough to fit within a system, such as a water treatment system, an automatic plumbing fixture, etc., and that is capable of operating with high efficiency to generate sufficient electrical energy to operate the system.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention discloses a miniature hydro-power generation system that overcomes the problems associated with the prior art. Embodiments of the miniature hydro-power generation system are effective to provide sufficient electrical energy to operate electrical devices by rotating at high Revolutions Per Minute (RPM), for example, above 5000 RPM. High RPM operation is possible due to minimizing losses in the flowing liquid and maximizing the conversion of kinetic energy into rotational kinetic energy to produce electrical energy.

The hydro-power generation system may include a generally cylindrical housing that may have a plurality of blades positioned to extend outwardly from an outer surface of the housing. The paddles may be generally concave in shape and extend perpendicularly from the outer surface of the housing. The hydro-power generation system may also include a nozzle, a centering rod, and a generator. The nozzle may be configured to direct a high velocity liquid stream at the paddle to produce rotation of the housing. The centering rod may extend through a cavity included in the housing. The housing may rotate about the centering rod in response to liquid impacting the paddles.

The generator may be a permanent magnet generator positioned within the housing cavity. The generator includes a rotor connected to the housing and a stator connected to the centering rod. As the housing rotates, the rotor may be positioned within the housing to rotate about the stator and generate electrical energy. The rotor may generate a magnetic field that levitates the rotor in axial alignment around the stator. The housing includes a sleeve surrounding the centering rod. As the rotor floats around the stator, the housing floats around the centering rod. The sleeve thus surrounds the centering rod with little or no contact between the housing and the centering rod to reduce rotational friction as the housing rotates and further improve efficiency.

The housing may be formed by a first hub connected to a second hub to form a cavity. The paddles are retained between the first and second hubs when the first and second hubs are engaged. The blades may form a blade ring concentrically surrounding the housing. The housing also includes a plurality of vents configured to vent liquid from the cavity upon rotation of the housing to reduce fluid resistance. The cavity thus remains substantially dry as the paddles experience the liquid flow from the nozzle and the housing rotates at high RPM.

The housing may be positioned entirely within the outer housing. The outer housing may include an inner surface and an outlet. The inner surface may include conduits that reduce liquid spray and thus reduce fluid resistance as the liquid flow is directed at the blades. The conduit may include fingers and channels to reduce liquid spray and also direct liquid away from the outer housing. The fingers and through holes may be configured in a swirl pattern on the inner surface according to the liquid distribution pattern sputtered from the rotating housing. The liquid may be continuously directed out of the outer shell through the conduit so that the outer shell remains substantially dry. The inner casing and the nozzle can thus be operated without immersion in liquid in order to further reduce the fluid resistance and improve the effective energy transfer.

The hydro-power generation system may also include a plumbing fixture such as an automatic toilet flushing attachment. The plumbing fixture includes an electrically operated valve, an energy storage device, a power controller, a sensor, and a generator. The generator may generate electrical energy through the flow of liquid and be used to drive the power controller, the sensor and the electrically operated valve. When the sensor detects use of the toilet, the electrically operated valve may be actuated to open and provide a flow of liquid. The flow of liquid may be used by a generator to generate electrical energy to charge an energy storage device. The power controller may monitor the amount of stored energy in the energy storage device. If the amount of stored energy becomes very low, the power controller may activate the electrically operated valve to open and the generator may charge the energy storage device.

These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments, read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The above description has been presented by way of introduction only. Which should not be taken as limiting the scope of the claims which follow.

Drawings

FIG. 1 illustrates a water treatment system in connection with an embodiment of a hydro-power generation system;

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the nozzle shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the water treatment system and the hydro-power generation system shown in FIG. 1 rotated 90 with a portion of the hydro-power generation system shown in section;

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a hydro-power generation system;

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle shown in FIG. 4 taken along line 5-5;

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 4 rotated 90 with a portion of the hydro-power generation system shown in cross-section;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a hydro-power generation system coupled to a water treatment system;

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of the embodiment of the hydro-power generation system shown in FIG. 7 with a portion of the stator housing shown in cross-section;

FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system;

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of a hydro-power generation system;

FIG. 12 shows an end view of the nozzle of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the nozzle illustrated in FIG. 12 taken along line 13-13;

FIG. 14 illustrates another cross-sectional view of the nozzle of FIG. 12 taken along line 14-14;

FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of the outer housing of the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 11 taken along line 15-15;

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 11 with the inner housing removed;

FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a bottom portion of an outer housing of the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 11 taken along line 17-17;

FIG. 18 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an inner housing included in the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 11;

FIG. 19 illustrates a perspective view of a blade included in the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the blade shown in FIG. 19 taken along line 20-20;

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a hydro-power generation system including a plumbing fixture;

FIG. 22 shows a cross-sectional side view of the plumbing fixture of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 shows a schematic view of one example of a power controller included in the plumbing fixture of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 shows a schematic view of another example of a power controller included in the plumbing fixture of FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 shows a flow chart of operation of the hydro-power generation system within the plumbing fixture of FIGS. 21-24;

FIG. 26 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system;

FIG. 27 illustrates another cross-sectional side view of the hydro-power generation system of FIG. 26.

Detailed Description

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to specific structures, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various changes and modifications can be made to these specific structures without departing from the scope of the claims. The preferred embodiment can be used with any water treatment system that requires a source of electrical power and includes water flow; however, these embodiments are designed for water treatment systems that are intended for residential or mobile use. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that these embodiments may be used with fluids other than water and that the use of the terms "water" and "hydroelectric" should not be considered as limiting.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a water treatment system 10 coupled to a preferred hydro-power generation system 12. In this embodiment, the hydro-power generation system 12 includes a nozzle 14, a housing 16, an impeller 18, and a housing outlet 20. The nozzle 14 is connected to the water treatment system 10 by a conduit 22. The conduit 22 is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic or similar material and is connected to the nozzle 14 by a threaded connection, friction fit, or other similar connection mechanism.

During operation, pressurized water flows from the water treatment system 10 into the hydro-power generation system 12 via the nozzles 14, as indicated by arrow 24. The nozzle 14 is connected to the housing 16 such that water flows through the nozzle 14 and is forced through the housing 16 to the housing outlet 20. In alternative embodiments, the hydro-power generation system 12 may be positioned within the water treatment system 10 or positioned such that it may receive a quantity of pressurized water before the water enters the water treatment system 10.

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the nozzle 14. The preferred nozzle 14 is a sonic nozzle that increases the velocity of the pressurized water flowing through it. In this embodiment, the nozzle 14 is capable of increasing the flow velocity of water to subsonic velocity. The nozzle 14 is made of stainless steel or other similar rigid material and includes a nozzle inlet 26 and a nozzle outlet 28. The nozzle inlet 26 is connected to the water treatment system 10 as described above. The nozzle outlet 28 is connected to the housing 16 by a friction fit, snap fit, threaded connection, or other similar connection mechanism capable of forming a fluid tight connection therebetween. The nozzle 14 may be inserted into the housing 16 at any location that results in proper alignment of the nozzle 14 with the impeller 18, as will be discussed below.

The nozzle 14 includes a passage 30 for the passage of water. The passageway 30 is formed with a first predetermined diameter 32 at the nozzle inlet 26 and a second predetermined diameter 34 at the nozzle outlet 28. In this embodiment, the second predetermined diameter 34 is approximately 26% of the first predetermined diameter 32. The passageway 30 maintains a first predetermined diameter 32 for a predetermined length of the nozzle 14. The remainder of the channel 30 is formed by tapering the channel 30 uniformly to the second predetermined diameter 34. In this embodiment, the passageway 30 of the nozzle 14 has a taper angle of about 18 ° between the first predetermined diameter 32 and the second predetermined diameter 34.

The shape of the channel 30 determines the flow rate of water exiting the nozzle 14. In addition, the water flow rate at the nozzle outlet 28 is dependent on the pressure of the water supply and the back pressure downstream of the nozzle. The desired predetermined range of flow rates at the nozzle outlet 28 may be determined using the expected range of pressures provided by the water treatment system 10 (shown in fig. 1) at the nozzle inlet 26. For example, in a domestic water system, the pressure of the water source is in the range of about 20 to 60 pounds Per Square Inch (PSI). The channel 30 also provides a continuous uniform flow of water at the nozzle outlet 28. Water flowing through the nozzle 14 during operation flows into the housing 16 in a predetermined path within a predetermined high velocity range.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the housing 16 forms a conduit, which may be made of plastic or other similar water resistant material capable of forming a rigid water passageway. In this embodiment, the housing 16 includes a translucent portion as shown in FIG. 1 so that the interior of the housing 16 may be viewed. The housing 16 is formed around the impeller 18, the impeller 18 being in fluid communication with the water as it flows through the housing 16 after exiting the nozzle outlet 28.

The impeller 18 includes a plurality of blades 42 rigidly secured to a hub 44. The vanes 42 are positioned in the housing 16 such that water flowing from the nozzle 14 impacts the vanes 42 of the impeller 18 at a predetermined angle. The predetermined angle is determined based on the expected pressure of the water at the nozzle inlet 26, the back pressure at the nozzle outlet 28 and the required Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) of the impeller 18. During operation, the flowing water acts on the impeller 18 to cause it to rotate in a single direction within the housing 16. As discussed in detail below, this embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12 converts energy in the flowing water into rotational energy, which is in turn converted into electrical energy, as the impeller 18 rotates. In this embodiment, the impeller 18 is immersed in water flowing through the housing 16.

Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in fig. 1 rotated 90 deg., with a portion of the housing 16 broken away. As shown, the impeller 18 is coaxially secured to the generator 46 by a longitudinally extending shaft 48. The shaft 48 may be stainless steel or other similar rigid material that fixedly connects the impeller 18. The hub 44 of the impeller 18 is coaxially connected to one end of a shaft 48 and a generator shaft 50, which is part of the generator 46, is coaxially connected to the other end thereof. The rigid connection of the shaft 48 to the impeller 18 and the generator 46 may be by welding, press fitting, or other similar rigid connection.

The rotatable shaft 48 extends longitudinally into the housing 16 through a fluid tight seal 52, the seal 52 being made of rubber or other similar material. A fluid-tight seal 52 is connected to the housing 16 and is configured to allow the shaft 48 to rotate freely without leaking water from the interior of the housing 16. The shaft 48 extends longitudinally to the generator 46 located adjacent the housing 16. Although not shown, the outer surface of the generator 46 may be attached to the housing 16, such as by nuts and bolts, rivets or other similar mechanism capable of fixedly attaching the housing 16 to the generator 48.

During operation, as water flows through the housing 16 and the impeller 18 rotates, the shafts 48, 50 rotate accordingly, resulting in the generation of electrical energy by the generator 46. In an alternative embodiment, a magnetic coupling (not shown) is employed in place of the shaft 48 to eliminate the need for penetration of the housing 16. In this embodiment, the impeller 18 includes magnets of sufficient magnetic strength to rigidly couple with similar magnets on a generator shaft 50 fixed outside the housing 16. In operation, as the impeller 18 rotates, the attractive forces between the magnets oriented on the impeller and the magnets oriented on the engine shaft 50 cause the generator shaft 50 to rotate to generate electrical energy from the generator 46.

In this embodiment, the generator 46 may be a permanent magnet generator capable of generating Direct Current (DC) or Alternating Current (AC). In an alternative embodiment, the generator 46 can produce both AC and DC current. Electrical energy is transmitted from the generator 46 through a plurality of electrical conductors 54, which conductors 54 may be wires, bus bars, or other similar material capable of conducting electricity. The voltage level of the generated electrical energy is a function of the rpm of the impeller 18. As described above, the flow rate of water exiting the nozzle 14 may be designed within a predetermined range to control the voltage output of the electrical energy generated by the generator 46.

The alternating current or rectified direct current produced by this embodiment may be used to drive the water treatment system 10 and may also be used to charge an energy storage (not shown), such as a battery or capacitor. The rotation of the impeller 18 or the duration of the generated electrical energy may also be supplied to a mechanism based on flow measurements, such as a measurement of flow rate or the amount of water that has passed through the water treatment system 10. The rotation of the impeller 18 or the duration of the generated electrical energy may be combined with the back electromagnetic force (EMF) of the generator 46 to provide a flow-based measurement. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the hydro-power generation system 12 may be used in other systems besides the water treatment system 10.

FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12. This embodiment is also connected to a water treatment system 10 as in the embodiment shown in fig. 1 and includes a nozzle 14, a housing 16, an impeller 18, and a housing outlet 20. Similar to the embodiments described above, the nozzles 14 provide water at high velocity, which is directed over the rotatable impeller 18. However, in this embodiment, the impeller 18 is not submerged in the water inside the housing 16 during operation. Thus, water forms a jet from the nozzle 14, which is sprayed on the impeller 18.

The nozzle 14 may be a sonic nozzle similar to the nozzle 14 described above in fig. 2. The nozzle 14 is inserted into the housing 16 and connected thereto by a mounting plate 56. The mounting plate 56 is positioned adjacent an outer surface of the housing 16. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are other methods that may be used to connect the nozzle 14 to the housing 16.

Fig. 5 shows a cross-sectional view positioned on the mounting plate 56 of this embodiment. The mounting plate 56 includes a longitudinal slot 58 and a pair of ears 60 that allow the nozzle 14 to be adjusted to an optimal position relative to the impeller 18. In this embodiment, the nozzle 14 may be fixedly mounted to the housing 16 when the optimal position is achieved by inserting screws into the ears 60. In an alternative embodiment, the mounting plate 56 provides a single predetermined desired position for the nozzle 14 when fasteners, such as screws, rivets or pins, fixedly mount the mounting plate 56 to the housing 16.

Referring again to fig. 4, the desired position of the nozzle 14 is such that the nozzle 14 extends longitudinally into the housing 16. The housing 16 of this embodiment includes a housing interior 62 defined by the interior walls of the housing 16, as shown in FIG. 4. The housing interior 62 is an air space that includes the impeller 18 positioned therein. During operation, water is sprayed from the nozzle 14 into the housing cavity 62 in a predetermined path to impinge on the impeller 18 at a predetermined angle. The predetermined angle is determined based on the desired RPM of the impeller and the range of water pressure supplied to the nozzle by the water treatment system. The cooperation of the nozzle 14 and impeller 18 is not limited to use with pressurized water and other fluids, such as air, may be used as well.

As also shown in fig. 4, the impeller 18 includes a plurality of blades 64. Each vane 64 of this embodiment is fixedly attached at one end to an impeller hub 66 and includes a paddle 68 formed at the other end. The impeller hub 66 is fixedly connected to the shaft 48 as in the previous embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number of blades 64 and the size of the impeller 18 may vary depending on the application.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12 shown in FIG. 5 rotated 90 with a portion of the housing 16 cut away for ease of illustration. As shown, the hydro-power generation system 12 includes a housing 16 coupled to a generator 46 with a shaft 48 as in the embodiments described above. In addition, the rotatable shaft 48 extends longitudinally from the impeller 18 into the generator 46 through a fluid-tight seal 52. In an alternative embodiment, the shaft 48 may instead be a magnetic coupling, as described above, thereby eliminating the penetration of the housing 16 and the fluid-tight seal 52. As shown, the shaft 48 rotatably positions the impeller 18 in the air space within the housing interior 62 for rotation about the shaft 48 by the paddles 68.

As shown in fig. 6, each paddle 68 of this embodiment forms a parabolic shape that includes a notch 70. The parabolic shape of the paddles 68 provides a uniform receptor for the energy present in the water ejected from the nozzle 14 (shown in fig. 5). The slot 70 allows the energy of the sprayed water to enter the next paddle 68 as the impeller 18 rotates. Diverting the energy of the sprayed water to the next paddle maximizes the efficiency of the energy transfer from the water to the impeller 18. In alternative embodiments, each vane 64 may be formed in other shapes and configurations to facilitate efficient transfer of energy from other fluids ejected from the nozzle 14. For example, when the fluid is air, the blades 64 may be formed as paddles, fins, or other similar structures capable of converting energy from the flowing air into rotation of the impeller 18.

During operation, after the water jet impacts the impeller 18 at a predetermined angle, the water falls by gravity as indicated by arrow 72 toward the housing outlet 20. Thus, the water collects at the housing outlet 20 and is thereby directed out of the housing 16. Since the impeller 18 is not submerged in water, most of the energy transferred from the water jet to the impeller 18 is formed as a rotational force to the shaft 48.

Rotation of the shaft 48 rotates a portion of the generator 46. One embodiment of the generator 46 includes a rotor 76, a first stator 78, and a second stator 80 positioned inside a generator housing 82. The rotor 76 is fixedly connected to the shaft 48 and rotates therewith. The first and second stators 78, 80 are fixedly coupled to a generator housing 82 and circumferentially surround the shaft 48. The rotor 76 is positioned between first and second stators 78, 80 to form the generator 46.

The rotor 76 of this embodiment may be in the form of a disk that includes a plurality of permanent magnets 84. The permanent magnets 84 are uniformly disposed at predetermined positions within the rotor 76 to cooperate with the first and second 78, 80. Each of the first and second stators 78, 80 in this embodiment may also form a disk including a plurality of coils 86. The coils 86 are positioned uniformly inside the first and second stators 78, 80 to cooperate with the permanent magnets 84. The coils 86 may be electrically connected to form one or more windings for generating electrical energy. The number of poles and design of the first and second stators 78, 80 depends on a number of factors. These factors include: the strength of the gaussian magnetic field formed by the permanent magnets 84 and the back EMF, as well as the required RPM and the required power output of the generator 46.

In this embodiment, rotation of the rotor 76 causes magnetic flux generated by the permanent magnets 84 to likewise rotate to generate electrical energy in the first and second stators 78, 80. The rotor 76 and the first and second stators 78, 80 cooperate to generate an Alternating Current (AC). The AC may be rectified and stabilized by the generator 46 to provide both AC and Direct Current (DC). In an alternative embodiment, the permanent magnets 84 may be positioned on the first and second stators 78, 80 such that the generator 46 may be used to generate Direct Current (DC). In another alternative embodiment, the generator 46 is similar to the generator 46 discussed with respect to FIG. 3.

During operation, pressurized water may be delivered from the water treatment system 10 (shown in FIG. 1) to the hydro-power generation system 12. As in the previous embodiments, various alternative embodiments of the hydro-power generation system 12 may deliver water to the water treatment system 10 or be positioned within the water treatment system 10. In this embodiment, water is delivered from the treatment system 10 to the nozzle 14 as described above.

Pressurized water flows through the nozzle 14 and is injected into the housing cavity 62 at high velocity to impinge upon the paddles 68 on the impeller 18 at a predetermined angle of incidence. When the water strikes the paddles 68, the energy of the injected water is transferred to the impeller 18 causing it to rotate in a single direction. A portion of the spray water also sprays through the slots 70 and impacts other paddles 68 on the impeller 18 as the impeller 18 rotates. After the water strikes the paddles 68 and the simultaneous transfer of energy, the water falls by gravity to the housing outlet 20 and out of the housing 16. Thus, the housing cavity 62 maintains an air space during operation and is not completely filled with water during operation.

Rotation of the impeller 18 rotates the shaft 48 to rotate the rotor 76 of the generator 46. In this embodiment, the rotor 76 rotates at about 2400 Revolutions Per Minute (RPM). Rotation of the rotor 76 causes the generation of electrical power that is supplied to the water treatment system 10. As described above, the range of voltage levels produced by the generator 46 is determined based on the range of flow rates of water through the nozzle 14. Thus, the voltage range of the generator can be selected by selecting a range of flow rates of water through the nozzle 14.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12, which is preferably coupled to the water treatment system 10. As shown, the hydro-power generation system 12 includes a rotor housing 102 and a stator housing 104. The rotor housing 102 forms a conduit, which may be constructed of plastic or other similar rigid material, and includes an inlet 106 and an outlet 108. During operation, the inlet 106 receives flowing water as indicated by arrow 110 and the outlet 108 directs the flowing water to the water treatment system 10. In various alternative embodiments, the hydro-power generation system 12 may be fixed within the water treatment system 10 or may be fixed to receive water exiting the water treatment system 10. As discussed above, the flow of water through the hydro-power generation system 12 may be controlled by the water treatment system 10.

As shown in fig. 7, the rotor housing 102 contains a rotor 112 and the stator housing 104 contains a stator 114. The rotor 112 of this embodiment may be a twelve-stage permanent magnet rotor having six north/south pole combinations. As described in more detail below, the stator 114 of this embodiment may be an annular ring designed with eight north/south pole combinations. The rotor 112 and stator 114 cooperate to generate electrical energy during operation. As is known in the art, the stator includes fixed windings that can be configured to accommodate any number of poles depending on the magnitude of the voltage output required. The number of electrodes disclosed in the winding of the present embodiment should not be construed as a limitation of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 with the top portion of the stator housing 104 cut away for illustration. The stator 114 is fixedly positioned in the stator housing 104 to circumferentially surround the rotor housing 102. The stator 114 includes a core 116, a plurality of salient poles 118, and a plurality of coils 120. The core 116 may be constructed of iron, steel, or other similar material and is formed to include a projecting electrode 118. In this embodiment, there may be eight projecting electrodes 118, each surrounded by a coil 120.

Salient poles 118 are formed on the stator 114 so that they circumferentially surround the rotor housing 102. Each of the projecting electrodes 118 includes a shaped end that is known in the art as a pole piece 122. The pole shoes 122 are positioned adjacent the rotor housing 102. The pole shoes 122 conduct a constant magnetic flux formed by the rotor 112 through the coils 120. The coil 120 may be a wire or other similar material capable of conducting electrical energy and is wound around the projecting electrode 118. Although not shown, the coils 120 are electrically connected to each other to form windings, as is known in the art, the number of electrical coils for each coil 120 is determined by the voltage and power requirements, minimum and maximum number of revolutions of the rotor 112, maximum allowable back pressure, required inductance, and magnetic gauss.

Referring again to fig. 7, the stator 114 is positioned transversely perpendicular to the central axis of the rotor housing 102. Since the stator 114 is positioned outside of the rotor housing 102, it is out of fluid communication with the flowing water inside the rotor housing 102. The stator housing 104 is fixedly attached to the rotor housing 102 to provide a predetermined location for the stator 114 on the rotor housing 102. In this embodiment, the stator housing 104 is coupled to the outer surface of the rotor housing 102 by a friction fit. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various other ways of connecting the rotor housing 102 to the stator housing 104 exist.

In this embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12, the rotor 112 includes permanent magnets 124, which may be made of metal, sintered metal, extruded metal, or ceramic material. The permanent magnets 124 form a constant magnetic flux and are connected with the rotor shaft 126. A rotatable rotor shaft 126 extends longitudinally outwardly from both ends of the permanent magnet 124 and may be constructed of stainless steel or other rigid corrosion resistant material. The central axis of the permanent magnet 124 forms a coaxial line with the rotor shaft 126. The outer surface of the permanent magnet 124 may be streamlined to include at least one rotor blade 128. The permanent magnets 124 of this embodiment are formed in a barrel shape with a single helical ridge forming the rotor blades 128. In alternative embodiments, the rotor blades 128 may be turbine blades or other similar devices capable of causing rotation of the rotor 112 when impacted by flowing water.

As shown in fig. 7, the rotor 112 is fixed inside the rotor case 102 coaxially with the center axis of the rotor case 102. One end of the rotor shaft 126 of the rotor 112 is inserted into the first connection plate 130 and the other end thereof is inserted into the second connection plate 132. In this embodiment, both ends of the rotor shaft 126 are enlarged in diameter to form a solid area for easy fastening to the first and second coupling discs 130, 132. The first and second coupling discs 130, 132 are formed of plastic or other similar material and establish a transverse support perpendicular to the central axis of the rotor housing 102. The first and second coupling discs 130, 132 each include a bearing 134 or other similar device to allow the rotor shaft 126 to rotate freely. Further, the first connection disc 130 and the second connection disc 132 are connected to the rotor case 102 at a predetermined interval from each other so that the rotor 112 can be suspended therebetween.

The rotor 112 is positioned in the rotor housing 102 such that water flowing through the rotor housing 102 strikes rotor blades 128 that form a portion of the rotor 112. Rotor blades 128 act as a paddle to force the flowing water against rotor 112. The flowing water causes the rotor 112 to rotate in a single direction about the central axis of the rotor housing 102. The rotor 112 is positioned inside the stator 114 such that the axis of the rotor 112 is concentric with the axis of the stator 114. The rotor 112 cooperates with the stator 114 to form a generator.

During operation, as water flows and the rotor rotates, the constant magnetic flux generated by the rotor 112 also rotates and penetrates into the stator 114 to substantially generate electrical energy. An air gap of a certain distance must be maintained between the rotor 112 and the stator 114 so that a constant magnetic flux from the rotor 112 can induce the electrical energy generated by the stator 114. In these embodiments, the "air gap" between the permanent magnets 124 of the rotor 112 and the pole shoes 122 of the stator 114 includes flowing water and the rotor housing 102. The flow of fluid and the rotor housing 102 do not affect the constant magnetic flux. Thus, the rotating constant magnetic flux from the rotating rotor 112 causes electrical energy to be generated by the coils 120 of the stator 114.

When water flows through the rotor housing 102 to rotate the rotor 112, the rotating constant magnetic flux is transferred to the windings of the stator 114 and generates electrical energy. The electrical energy flows through the electrical conductor 54 to power a device, i.e., the water treatment system 10 in this embodiment. The hydro-power generation system 12 of this embodiment shown in fig. 7 and 8 generates Alternating Current (AC), which may be used to drive the water treatment system 10. In an alternative embodiment, the hydro-power generation system 12 may generate Direct Current (DC) by positioning the permanent magnets 124 on the stator 114. In another alternative embodiment, the hydro-power generation system 12 provides both AC and DC current to the water treatment system 10 by rectifying and stabilizing Alternating Current (AC). The DC current may also be used to charge an energy storage (not shown). The rotation of the rotor 112 and the duration of the generation of electrical energy may also be used to provide flow-based measurements, such as measurements of flow rate or the amount of water flowing through the water treatment system 10.

Fig. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12 that is similar in principle to the embodiment disclosed above with respect to fig. 7 and 8. This embodiment includes rotor 112, stator 114, and turbine nozzle 140 secured in housing 142. The housing 142 constitutes a conduit having an inlet 144 and an outlet 146. As water or other fluid flows into inlet 114 as indicated by arrow 148, the water flows through housing 142 and exits housing 142 through outlet 146. In one embodiment, the hydro-power generation system 12 may be mounted within the water treatment system 10 (shown in FIG. 1) behind the water treatment system 10 or to deliver water to the water treatment system 10.

The housing 142 may be made of plastic or similar rigid material capable of conducting water. The housing 142 of this embodiment includes a first portion 152 and a second portion 154 to facilitate assembly and maintenance. The first and second portions 152, 154 may be joined together by bonding, friction fit, threaded connection, or other means of forming a similarly rigid connection. The housing 142 forms a passage 156 through which water flows. Turbine nozzle 140 is fixedly positioned within passage 156.

The turbine nozzle 140 of this embodiment may be generally conical in shape and may be made of plastic or other similar rigid material. The turbine nozzle 140 may be integrally formed to include a tip 158 and a plurality of supports 160. The roof 158 may be located at the center of the channel 156 and serves to spray the flowing water outwardly toward the inner wall of the housing 142. Each support member 160 is fixedly attached to the inner wall of the housing 142 by, for example, a friction fit, snap and lock, threaded connection, or other similar rigid connection.

Support 160 fixedly supports turbine nozzle 140 in passage 156 and includes a plurality of passages 162 to allow water to flow through housing 142. The size of the channel 162 may be adjusted to control the flow rate of the water. As in the nozzle 14 described above with reference to fig. 2, a predetermined range of velocities may be determined based on the expected range of water pressures flowing into the inlet 114 and the back pressure of the hydro-power generation system 12. In addition, each support 160 may be oriented in a predetermined shape to act as a propeller to face the flowing water. The flowing water may be directed to act on the rotor 112 in a predetermined manner to eliminate turbulence, thereby adjusting the pressure drop or increasing operating efficiency.

FIG. 10 is a top view of a portion of the hydro-power generation system 12 of FIG. 9, illustrating the nozzles 140 and the supports 160 within the first portion 152 of the housing 142. The supports 160 may be positioned at a predetermined distance 1002, such as 4.42 millimeters (0.174 inches), from each other around the exterior of the nozzle 140 to form the channel 162. Each brace 160 includes a leading end 1004 and a trailing end 1006. The leading end 1004 positioned proximate to the struts 160 can form an inlet duct and the trailing end 1006 positioned proximate to the struts 160 can form an outlet duct. The liquid flow first reaches the pilot end 1004 and enters the inlet conduit as indicated by arrow 148. Within the channel 162, the liquid increases in velocity before reaching the trailing end 1006 of the struts 160.

The width of the channel 162 may taper toward the trailing end 1006, as shown. Thus, the cross-sectional area between the channels is reduced by a predetermined amount, for example, about 10% -20%. The velocity increases as the pressurized liquid is forced into the narrowing channel 162. The gradual reduction in cross-sectional area between the channels 162 minimizes back pressure while increasing the velocity of the flowing liquid. In addition, non-laminar flow of liquid within the channel 162 may be minimized by narrowing the channel 162.

The support 160 may also include a plurality of flow straighteners 1008. A flow straightener 1008 may be included in the passage 162 to further reduce non-laminar flow. Similar to the support member 160, the flow director 1008 may be fixedly attached to the inner wall of the first portion 152 and extend into the channel 162. The example bluff body 1008 may include blades connected to a body 1012. The blades 1010 may be substantially straight portions of the flow straightners 1008 extending from near the leading end 1004 toward the trailing end 1006 of each brace 160. The body 1012 may be a spherical body positioned a predetermined distance upstream of the outlet conduit formed by the trailing ends 1006 of adjacently positioned struts 160. In other examples, the flow straightners 1008 may be any other hydrodynamic shape so as to define the flow of liquid and maximize uniform flow through the channels 162.

As further shown in fig. 10, the nozzle 140 may be divided into a compression region 1016 followed by a settling region 1018. Within the compression zone 1016, an abrupt transition in the direction of liquid flow may occur. Turbulence increases due to the increased volume of liquid in the first portion 152. As the volume decreases, the compression and velocity of the liquid increases. The volume reduction in the compression region 1016 may be predetermined to achieve a desired flow rate depending on the pressure range of the desired flowing liquid. Within the compression zone 1016, the flowing liquid is forced out toward the inner walls of the housing 142, which may increase turbulence and/or non-laminar flow.

The settlement region 1018 provides a region of uniform volume with liquid capacity such that turbulence in the flowing liquid is attenuated and the liquid has a more laminar flow. The settlement region 1018 may be of a predetermined length depending on the expected magnitude of turbulence in the flowing liquid. Non-laminar flow of liquid may be reduced between the inlet channels 162. Within the channel 162, the velocity of the flowing liquid is further increased and the liquid is then directed to the rotor 112.

Referring again to FIG. 9, the rotor 112 of this embodiment includes a turbine rotor 164, a rotor shaft 166, and permanent magnets 168. The rotor 112 is rotatably secured within the passage 156 such that water flowing into the passage 156 may cause the rotor 112 to rotate about a central axis 170 of the housing 142. Rotation of rotor 112 occurs when the flowing water acts on turbine rotor 164. The turbine rotor 164 may be made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, or other similar rigid material that is capable of withstanding the rotational forces and the flowing water forces. Turbine rotor 164 includes at least one turbine blade 172 and a body 174.

Turbine blades 172 are positioned to receive energy from water flowing through struts 160. The turbine blades 172 may be a plurality of paddles, helical ridges or other devices formed on the body 174 that are capable of converting the energy of the flowing water into rotational energy. The turbine blades 172 of this embodiment are integrally formed with the body 174 and extend to a position adjacent the inner wall of the housing 142. The body 174 may be configured to define an internal cavity 176 that circumferentially surrounds a portion of the rotor shaft 166.

The reader should note that the depth of the channel 162 relative to the inner wall of the housing 142 is less than the depth of the turbine blade 172. The different depths provide for circulation of the flowing water as explained below. In addition, the flow path of the water is disposed linearly through the stator 114. The volume of the flow path is also larger after the channel 162 to provide a predetermined pressure drop in the flowing water pressure. As the water flows over the turbine blades 172, the flowing water thus releases a large amount of kinetic energy onto the rotating turbine blades 172. The kinetic energy in the flowing water is efficiently extracted by the turbine blades 172 without significant losses and inefficiencies since only the turbine blades 172 are directly in the high velocity stream of flowing water.

The rotor shaft 166 is rotatable and may be integral with the turbine rotor 164 or the rotor shaft 166 is fixedly connected to the turbine rotor 164 by a press fit, threaded connection, or similar connection means. The rotor shaft 166 may be stainless steel or other similarly rigid material that may extend longitudinally through the permanent magnet 168. The permanent magnet 168 may be a pressed magnet that may be made of metal, sintered metal, ceramic material, or other similar material having magnetic properties. The permanent magnet 168 may be fixedly attached to the rotor shaft 166 by a friction fit, molding, or other similar means. The rotor 112 is rotatably positioned by a plurality of bearings 178.

Bearings 178 circumferentially surround a portion of rotor shaft 166 at both ends of permanent magnet 168. The bearings 178 may be carbon graphite, polytetrafluoroethylene, ball bearings, ceramic, Ultra High Molecular Weight (UHMW) polyethylene, or other similar bearings capable of withstanding rotation of the rotor shaft 166. In this embodiment, the bearings 178 are lubricated by the water present in the channel 156. In addition, the flowing water may be used to cool the bearings 178, as will be described below. The bearing 178 is fixed and positioned by the stator 114.

The stator 114 of this embodiment includes a plurality of drainage guide vanes 180, fins 182, a plurality of coils 184, and a cover 186. As shown in fig. 9, the stator 114 is fixedly positioned in the channel 156 by the drain guide vanes 180. Each drain guide paddle 180 is fixedly attached to the inner wall of the housing 142 by rigid means such as adhesive, friction fit, snap fit or the like. The discharge guide vanes 180 extend longitudinally parallel to the inner wall of the housing 142 and form channels through which water flows. The exit guide vanes 180 form channels that direct the flowing water toward the outlet 146 to reduce turbulence, bubbles, back pressure, and other similar properties of the flowing water that may affect efficient operation. Fins 182 are also formed to direct the flowing water toward outlet 146.

Although not shown, the drainage guide vanes 180 may form a helical pattern similar to a helical coil concentric with the central axis 170. The drainage guide vanes 180 may gradually spread out in the direction of the fins 182 so as to gradually become substantially parallel to the central axis 170. In this configuration, the drainage guide vanes 180 may reduce turbulence and create laminar flow.

In operation, liquid received by drainage guide vanes 180 may include a tendency to swirl due to the rotation of turbine blades 172. The tendency of turbulence in the liquid may generally match the helical pattern of the drainage guide vanes 180. Thus, liquid enters the drain guide vanes 180 without causing a sudden change in direction of turbulence. Although directed by the exit guide vanes 180, the tendency of turbulence in the liquid may be gradually reduced by the gradual expansion of the exit guide vanes 180. Thus, liquid may exit the exit guide vanes 180 through a generally laminar flow to operate as efficiently as possible.

The coils 184 are formed on a core (not shown) to circumferentially surround the rotor 112 and form windings. The coil 184 is spaced from the rotor 112 by an air gap 188. The coil 184 is fixedly connected to the drainage guide screw 180. In addition, coil 184 may be fixedly coupled with bearing 178 and fin 182. The coil 184 may be fixedly attached to the drainage guide vanes 180, the bearing 178 and the fins 182 by, for example, bonding or forming an integral body therewith. In this embodiment, the coil 184 is secured inside the channel 156, but is waterproof to avoid fluid communication with the flowing water. The coil 184 may be made waterproof by, for example, being coated with epoxy, injection molded rubber or plastic, ultrasonically sealed, or otherwise isolated from water by similar waterproofing means. In an alternative embodiment, the coil 184 may be located outside of the housing 142, as in the embodiment described above with reference to fig. 7 and 8.

The coil 184 may also be water-proof by a cover 186. A cover 186 is positioned to seal an end of the coil 184 adjacent the turbine rotor 164, as shown in FIG. 9. The cap 186 may be removably attached to the coil 184 by a threaded connection or may be fixedly attached to the coil 184 by bonding or integrally formed therewith. The cover 186 is formed to partially surround the bearing 178 and radially extend a predetermined distance, which is equal to the radius of the stator 114. The predetermined distance of the cover 186 extends closer to the inner wall of the housing 142 than the body 174 of the turbine rotor 164. The difference in distance from the inner wall of the housing 142 to the cap 186 and the body 174 ensures circulation of the flowing water, as will be discussed below.

During operation, water flowing through inlet 144 and into channel 156 experiences a predetermined increase in velocity as pressurized water flows through channel 162. The flowing water is directed by the bearings 160 to achieve a predetermined angle of incidence to the turbine blades 172, which causes the rotor 112 to rotate. In this embodiment, the rotor 112 rotates at about 15000 Revolutions Per Minute (RPM). Due to the different depths of the channel 162, turbine blade 172 and cover 182, the flowing water is circulated in the internal cavity 176. Circulation of the flowing water within the internal cavity 176 provides cooling and lubrication of the adjacently positioned bearings 178.

In this embodiment, the rotor 112 rotates at about 5000 Revolutions Per Minute (RPM), for example, in a range between about 4000RPM and about 5000RPM or in a range between about 4000RPM and about 12000 RPM. Rotation above 5000RPM may be dependent upon fluid pressures in the range of about 415Kpa to about 690Kpa (about 60 to 100ibs./sq. inch) fluid pressure and fluid flow rates of about 3.78 liters/minute to about 11.35 liters/minute (about 1-3 gallons/minute). Rotation above 5000RPM may also be dependent upon liquid pressures in the range of about 103.4Kpa to about 415Kpa (about 15 to 60PSI) liquid pressure and liquid flow rates of about 0.76 liters/minute to about 3.78 liters/minute (about 0.2 to about 1 gallon/minute). The pressures and flow rates described herein may vary by as much as 10% to 20% depending on the physical properties of the liquid and/or manufacturing tolerances, dimensions, RPM.

To operate in this RPM range, the hydro-power generation system may be minimized to reduce inefficiencies due to fluid drag (or windage losses). As used herein, the term "fluid resistance" is defined as fluid friction and/or any other fluid action that is detrimental to maximizing the conversion of kinetic energy into rotational kinetic energy.

The minimization of the hydro-power generation system minimizes the surface area subjected to the fluid as the rotor 112 rotates. Additionally, the weight of the hydro-power generation system is minimized. For example, the diameter of the channel 156 is in the range of about 6.35 millimeters to about 51 millimeters (about 0.25 inches to about 2 inches). Additionally, the depth of the channel 162 may be about 0.76 millimeters to about 2.54 millimeters (about 0.03 inches to about 0.1 inches) and the depth of the turbine blade 172 may be about 0.89 millimeters to about 3.8 millimeters (about 0.035 inches to about 0.15 inches).

The resulting higher RPM and reduced fluid resistance due to minimization may maximize power generation efficiency. For example, the generator may produce between about 0.27 and 39 watts when rotated between about 5000RPM and 10000 RPM. Additionally, the permanent magnets 168 may be sized (weighted) to optimize power generation of the hydro-power generation system 12.

When the hydro-power generation system 12 is operating, the high RPM rotation of the rotor 112 within the stator 114 effectively generates electrical energy. The hydro-power generation system 12 may be capable of generating Alternating Current (AC). In an alternative embodiment, the hydro-power generation system 12 may generate Direct Current (DC). In another alternative embodiment, the hydro-power generation system 12 may be designed to produce both DC and AC power through rectification and stabilization of the AC power. As discussed above, the number of electrodes and the configuration and size of the coils 184 is dependent on the back pressure, the desired RPM, and the target energy output of the hydro-power generation system 12.

Referring now to FIGS. 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9, another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12 discussed in connection with the embodiments of these figures is used to provide multiple voltage and current levels. Multiple voltage and current levels are provided by switching the coils of the hydro-power generation system 12 between a series configuration and a parallel configuration. Although not shown, a microprocessor or other similar control device that can detect the voltage and current levels of the hydro-power generation system 12 and the current voltage and current requirements of the water treatment system 10 can be used to selectively switch the coils between the series configuration and the parallel configuration. The selection switch of the coil can be used in embodiments that generate Direct Current (DC) or Alternating Current (AC).

For example, certain Ultraviolet (UV) light sources require a lower predetermined alternating current for initial energization and a higher voltage level. After initial energization, the UV light source requires a higher ac power but a lower voltage level to maintain the supplied energy. In, for example, a water treatment system, the UV light source may be a low pressure mercury lamp or a cold cathode lamp, etc., and the startup power and run state voltage are supplied by a ballast. Additionally, the hydro-power generation system 12 may provide ballast functions described below and the ballast may be omitted. Mercury lamps and/or cold cathodes, etc. may remove bacteria and other impurities from the water.

In operation, the coils are selectively placed in a series configuration by the microprocessor as the hydro-power generation system 12 generates electrical power. The series arrangement generates a predetermined alternating current at a predetermined voltage level that is capable of initially energizing the UV light source. After initial energization of the UV light source, the coils are selectively reassembled into a parallel configuration to provide a predetermined alternating current at a predetermined voltage level that can be maintained to energize the UV light source. The switching of the coils of the hydro-power generation system 12, as described above, may provide different voltage and current requirements for any electrical device in any system powered by the hydro-power generation system 12.

In another embodiment, the hydro-power generation system 12 discussed in connection with the above-described embodiments may be provided with multiple taps to represent different sets of coils forming each winding. These taps may be used to provide a plurality of different predetermined voltage levels by electrically connecting different numbers of coils to form each winding. The water treatment system 10 may be configured to switch between taps during operation using a microprocessor or other similar device. Thus, in the UV light source example described above, one tap may be used for initial energization while the other tap may be used for continuous operation. In addition, different taps may be used on an ongoing basis to operate different electrical devices in the water treatment system 10 depending on the electrical power requirements of the electrical devices. Tap changing may also be used to control the RPM of the generator. When the RPM is below the desired threshold, for example, the tap may be adjusted to disengage the coil, thereby increasing the RPM. The tap changing of the hydro-power generation system 12 may also provide different voltage levels for any system powered by the hydro-power generation system 12.

In yet another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12 discussed in connection with the above-described embodiment, the back electromagnetic force (EMF) present is advantageously reduced. As is known in the art, the back EMF of a permanent magnet generator is increased by flux concentrators that are formed by a number of metal laminations in the generator core. Flux concentrators can be used to improve the generating efficiency of the generator, but must overcome the transmitted back EMF in order to rotate the rotor.

In the case of the hydro-power generation system 12 being used in the water treatment system 10, certain UV light sources have different power requirements during startup and operation. With the above-described embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12 and the absence of flux concentrators, the operating requirements of the UV light source may be met.

During operation, the rotational load (back EMF) on the hydro-power generation system 12 may be small before the water treatment system 10 is powered. The rotational load may be small because the hydro-power generation system 12 of this embodiment does not include flux concentrators and the water treatment system 10 has not utilized electrical energy. The elimination of the flux concentrators results in a reduction in cogging torque, thereby allowing the hydroelectric generator to rotate at a faster rate. Thus, as water flows through the hydro-power generation system 12, the rotor may accelerate to a predetermined higher RPM in a shorter period of time.

The higher RPM provides a predetermined voltage (starting voltage) at a predetermined Alternating Current (AC) that can initially power, for example, a UV light source in the water treatment system 10. After the initial energization of the UV light source, the rotational load on the hydro-power generation system 12 is increased to reduce the RPM of the rotor. This lower rotor RPM provides a predetermined low voltage with a corresponding predetermined Alternating Current (AC) so that the UV light source can be continuously energized. The reader should appreciate that the "instant" capability provided by the hydro-power generation system 12 of this embodiment may eliminate the energy storage device required in the water treatment system 10 to drive the UV light source, since the UV light source is activated almost at the beginning of the water flow.

FIG. 11 is another embodiment of the hydro-power generation system 12 shown in partial cross-sectional view. Similar to the previous embodiments, the hydro-power generation system 12 may be used with the water treatment system 10. Additionally, the hydro-power generation system 12 may be included in any other form of system having a flowing pressurized liquid. The hydro-power generation system 12 may also include structures of the water treatment system such as UV light sources, filters, electronics, and the like.

The illustrated hydro-power generation system 12 includes an outer housing 1102 with side covers removed. Additionally, the hydro-power generation system 12 includes an inner housing 1104, a centering rod 1106, and a nozzle 1108. The outer housing 1102 may be plastic, metal, carbon fiber, or other rigid material and includes a cavity 1110. The cavity 1110 is an air gap that is sized to receive the inner housing 1104 such that the inner housing 1104 contacts the inner surface 1112 of the outer housing 1102. Also included in the outer housing 1102 is an outlet 1114. The outlet 1114 may be an opening that allows liquid present in the outer housing 1102 to drain from the cavity 1110 by gravity in order to maintain an air gap during operation.

The inner housing 1104 may be generally cylindrical and made of plastic, metal, carbon fiber, or other similar material. The inner housing 1104 may be mounted to the outer housing 1102 so as to surround at least a portion of the centering rod 1106 within the cavity 1110 of the outer housing 1102. The centering rod 1106 may be fixedly coupled to the outer housing 1102 and extend into the inner housing 1104. The centering rod 1106 may be any rigid, longitudinally extending material such as stainless steel.

A plurality of bushings 1116 may be coupled to the inner housing 1104 and surround the centering rod 1106. Each of the bushings 1116 may be a bushing made of plastic, metal, or other similar material. The bushings 1116 may be formed with openings that receive the centering rod 1106 and an outer surface that is formed to fit within openings in the outer surface of the inner housing 1104. The openings in the bushings 1116 may be large enough to allow the bushings 1116 to rotate within the outer housing 1102 about the centering rod 116 without contacting the centering rod 1106. The outer surface of the bushings 1116 may be fixedly coupled to the outer surface of the inner housing 1104 such that the inner housing 1104 and the bushings 1116 rotate together. Additionally, the bushings 1116 and the inner housing 1104 may rotate independently about the centering rod 1106.

The inner housing 1104 may also include a plurality of paddles 1118 fixedly attached and extending outwardly from the outer surface 1120 of the inner housing 1104. The paddles 1118 may be made of plastic, carbon fiber, metal, or other similar material. The paddles 1118 may be positioned perpendicular to the outer surface of the inner housing 1104 such that each paddle 1118 is positioned near the nozzle 1108 at some point as the inner housing 1104 rotates.

The nozzle 1108 may be mounted to extend into the cavity 1110 between the inner housing 1104 and the outlet 1114, as shown. Similar to the nozzle 14 shown in fig. 1-5, the nozzle 1108 increases the velocity of the pressurized liquid. Pressurized liquid supplied to the nozzle inlet 1122 at a first velocity flows through the nozzle 1108 and is discharged from the nozzle outlet 1124 at a second velocity that is substantially higher than the first velocity. Liquid discharged into the cavity through the nozzle 1108 is directed through the air gap at the paddles 1118.

FIG. 12 is an end view of the nozzle 1108 looking from the nozzle inlet 1122 (FIG. 11). The nozzle 1108 includes a passageway 1202 that is an axial bore that decreases in diameter toward the nozzle outlet 1202 (FIG. 11). Included in the channel 1202 is a rib 1204. The rib 1204 is coupled to the inner surface 1206 of the nozzle 1108 and extends outwardly from the inner surface 1206 toward a central axis 1208 of the nozzle 1108.

FIG. 13 is a cutaway bottom view of the nozzle 1108 shown in FIG. 12 including the rib 1204. The passageway 1202 through the nozzle 1108 includes a first inclined portion 1302 adjacent the nozzle inlet 1122 followed by a first straight portion 1304, a tapered portion 1306, a second inclined portion 1308, and a second straight portion 1310 that forms the nozzle outlet 1124. At the nozzle inlet 1122, the passageway 1202 may be a predetermined inlet diameter of, for example, 10.8 millimeters. Within the first angled portion 1302, the diameter of the passageway 1202 may decrease uniformly toward the nozzle outlet 1124 at a predetermined angle θ, for example, about 20 degrees, relative to the central axis 1208.

At the first straight portion 1304, the diameter of the passageway 1202 may be a predetermined first nozzle diameter of, for example, about 5.8 millimeters. The inner surface 1206 may be substantially parallel to the central axis 1208 through the first straight portion 1304 of the passageway 1202 and thus remain on the first nozzle diameter. At the tapered portion 1306, the inner surface 1202 may have a radius of curvature. The radius of curvature may form a portion of a circle having a predetermined radius, such as 8.7 millimeters. The diameter of the passage 1202 in the second sloped portion 1308 may decrease uniformly toward the nozzle outlet 1124 at a predetermined angle θ, for example, about 20 degrees, relative to the central axis 1208. The second straight section 1310 may form the nozzle outlet 1124 by maintaining the passageway 1202 at a predetermined second nozzle diameter of, for example, 1.85 millimeters.

The first and second nozzle diameters may be determined based on the resulting range of liquid pressures supplied to the nozzle 1108. In one example, the diameter of the first straight portion 1304 may remain relatively constant and the diameter of the second straight portion 1301 may vary depending on the pressure of the liquid introduced to the nozzle 1108. For example, the diameter of the first straight portion 1304 may be maintained at about 5.8 millimeters, and the diameter of the second straight portion 1301 may be formed to be about 1.9 millimeters or less. Thus, the diameter of the second straight portion 1301 of the nozzle 1108 (the nozzle outlet 1124) is about 33% or less of the diameter of the first straight portion 1304 of the nozzle 1108.

In another example, the second straight portion 1301 may be formed in a range between about 0.8 millimeters and about 1.9 millimeters (about 0.03 and 0.075 inches) for a liquid pressure at the nozzle inlet 1122 of about 34kPa and 850kPa (between about 5 and 125 PSI). In this example, the nozzle 1108 may be between about 14% and about 33% of the diameter of the first straight portion 1304 of the nozzle 1108. The resulting flow rate through the nozzle 1108 in this example may range from about 0.44 liters/minute at 34kPa to about 4.16 liters/minute (about 0.115 gallons/minute to about 1.1 gallons/minute) at about 850 kPa.

The rib 1204 may be any configuration that reduces swirling and other non-laminar behavior of the liquid flowing through the passageway 1102. The illustrated rib 1204 begins at the nozzle inlet 1122 and extends a predetermined distance along the central axis 1208 through the first angled portion 1302, the first straight portion 1304, and into the tapered portion 1306. Although shown as having a uniform width, in other examples, the rib 1204 may include one or more tapered width portions, bubbles, bends, or any other configuration to enhance laminar flow of liquid through the nozzle 1108. Additionally, the rib 1204 may be longer or shorter in length than shown to better eliminate turbulence of the liquid flowing through the channel 1202.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the nozzle 1108 including the rib 1204 of FIG. 12. At the nozzle inlet 1122 of the passageway 1202, the example rib 1204 extends outwardly from the inner surface 1206 toward the central axis 1208 a predetermined first distance. The distance that the rib 1204 extends from the inner surface 1206 gradually decreases to zero as the rib 1204 extends along the central axis 1208 toward the nozzle outlet 1124. In the illustrated example, the rib 1204 is tapered to extend a distance progressively further away from the central axis 1208 as the rib 1204 extends along the central axis 1208 toward the nozzle outlet 1124. Additionally, the distance between the inner surface 1206 and the central axis 1208 becomes smaller toward the nozzle outlet 1124, further tapering the rib 1204, as shown. In other examples, the rib 1204 may form any other shape to reduce swirling action and increase laminar flow of liquid through the nozzle 1108.

Referring again to fig. 11, in operation, liquid flowing through the nozzle 1108 may be maintained in a laminar flow while the velocity of the liquid accelerates within the nozzle 1108. The liquid may be discharged from the nozzle 1108 at a high velocity. Due to the generally laminar flow, the liquid stream may maintain a well-defined liquid stream having approximately the same diameter as the nozzle outlet 1124 after discharge. Thus, liquid splashing generated by the liquid flow is reduced, and the kinetic energy of the flowing liquid is concentrated in a relatively small area.

The flow may be directed at the paddles 118. Upon impacting the paddles 118, the kinetic energy in the liquid is efficiently converted into rotational kinetic energy of the inner housing 1104. As the inner housing 1104 rotates, each of the paddles 1118 may enter the high velocity liquid stream discharged from the nozzle 1108 and receive substantially all of the kinetic energy in the flowing liquid stream.

Once kinetic energy is extracted from the liquid, the liquid falls by gravity to the outlet 1114 and is directed out of the outer housing 1102. The outer housing 1102 is substantially free of liquid due to the channel guidance. Although some liquid may be present due to the constant flow of liquid discharged from the nozzle 1108, the channeling may keep the liquid level within the outer housing 1102 low enough that the nozzle 1108 and the inner housing 1104 are not submerged in the liquid. Thus, the nozzle 1108 and the inner housing 1104 operate in an air gap within the outer housing 1102 with minimal fluid drag losses.

Some of the liquid is temporarily held on the paddles 1118 and is thrown against the outer surface 1112 of the outer housing 1102 by the rotational force of the inner housing 1104. Additionally, some liquid may impact the paddles 1118 and reflect onto the inner surface 1112.

The inner surface 1112 may form a conduit to reduce liquid splash within the cavity 1110. The reduction in liquid splash within the cavity 1110 minimizes liquid drag losses to the rotating inner housing 1104 by keeping excess liquid away from the rotating inner housing 1104. The conduits included on the inner surface 1112 may also form a spiral pattern designed to effectively collect liquid spray and direct the liquid to the outlet 1114. Thus, the cavity 1110 remains substantially free of liquid during operation and is substantially filled with air (or other gas) such that the nozzle outlet 1124 of the nozzle 1108 is not submerged in liquid.

Fig. 15 shows one example of the inner surface 1112 in a cross-sectional view of the outer housing 1102 of fig. 11. The inner surface 1112 includes a conduit in the form of a plurality of fingers 1502 extending outwardly from the inner surface 1112 toward the inner housing 1104 (fig. 11). Each finger 1502 may form a separate pyramidal member. In other words, the fingers 1502 may be grooves, rings, supports, tracks, or any other irregular shape within the inner surface 1112 of the outer housing 1102. The fingers 1502 may be positioned in a predetermined pattern. Based on a simulation or analysis of the liquid splashed from the rotating inner housing 1104 and paddles 1118, the pattern may be a spiral pattern to reduce liquid splashing and maximize the liquid channeling to the outlet 1114 (FIG. 11).

The fingers 1502 may reduce liquid splashing of liquid contacting the inner surface 1112 of the outer housing 1102. Additionally, the fingers 1502 may be configured to direct water to the central channel 1504 and the outer channels 1506 included in the outer housing 1102. The central channel 1504 and outer channel 1506 may be V-grooves or some other form of conduit to direct liquid toward the outlet 1114 (fig. 11). The inner surface 1112 may also include a plurality of branch channels 1508. The branch channels 1508 may be arcuate channels within the inner surface 1112 that direct liquid to either the central channel 1504 or the outer channel 1506. Based on simulations or analysis of the liquid splashed from the rotating inner housing 1104 and paddles 1118, the passages may also be positioned in a spiral pattern to reduce liquid splashing and maximize liquid channeling to the outlet 1114 (FIG. 11).

The fingers 1502 may be positioned along each of the branch channels 1508. Liquid on the fingers 1502 may be "trapped" by the fingers 1502. The liquid may flow out of the fingers 1502 into the branch channels 1508 and then into the central channel 1504 or the outer channel 1506.

Fig. 16 is a side view of the outer housing 1102 shown in fig. 11 with the inner housing 1104 and the centering rod 1106 removed for ease of illustration. The inner surface 1112 of the outer housing 1102 includes fingers 1502 placed along a plurality of branch channels 1602 forming an arcuate path for liquid within the inner surface 1112. Liquid "trapped" by fingers 1503 flows off fingers 1502 into branch channels 1602 and is directed into outer channel 1506 (fig. 14) and/or outlet 1114.

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the bottom of the outer housing 1102 shown in fig. 11 including the outlet 1114. The bottom of the housing 1102 similarly includes a plurality of branch channels 1702, which are arcuate channels that direct liquid to the outlet 1114. The fingers 1502 may be placed along each of the branch channels 1702.

Fig. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the inner housing 1104 shown in fig. 11 including the centering rod 1106. Also included within the inner housing 1104 are a bushing 1116, a paddle 1118, a first hub 1802, a second hub 1804, a rotor 1806 and a stator 1808. The centering rod 1106 may extend through the inner housing 1104 along a central axis 1812 and cooperate with the bushings 1116 to provide a centering function for the stator 1808. The bushings 1116 may be formed to axially fit within bushing openings 1816 formed in the first end of each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804.

The first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 may be made of plastic, carbon fiber, or any other rigid material. Each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 may be generally cylindrical and form a cavity having an open end 1818. The open end 1818 may be located at a second end opposite the first end including the sleeve opening 1816. The first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 may be coupled together at open ends 1818 to form an outer surface 1120 (FIG. 11) of the inner housing 1104.

Each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 includes a retaining ring 1820. The retaining ring 1820 includes a plurality of lugs 1822 that extend outwardly around the edge of the open end 1818 parallel to the central axis 1812. A plurality of slots 1824 may be formed between each of the lugs 1822 in the retaining ring 1820. The lugs 1822 may be aligned to adjacently contact each other when the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 are connected at the open ends 1818. The slots 1824 may also be centered between the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 to form openings.

The first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 also include a plurality of vents 1826 arranged in a concentric sequence around the outer surface of the inner housing 1104. The vents 1826 form openings that allow fluid communication between the cavity within the inner housing 1104 and the exterior of the inner housing 1104. Thus, liquid can enter or exit the inner housing 1104 via the vents 1826.

As the inner housing 1104 rotates, liquid within the inner housing 1104 flows out through the vents 1826 due to centrifugal forces created in connection with the rotation. Accordingly, by timely draining liquid through the vents 1826 when the inner housing 1104 rotates at high RPM, the loss of fluidic resistance due to the liquid within the inner housing 1104 is reduced. Rotating the inner housing 1104 may thus keep the cavity substantially free of liquid. The cavity may be substantially dry and filled with air (or some other gas). Although the cavity may be wet, the cavity may hold a small amount of liquid sufficient for effective operation. The vents 126 also provide airflow through the inner housing 1104 for cooling.

A plurality of keepers 1828 are located within cavities formed within each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804, the keepers extending outwardly from the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 toward the central axis 1812. The keepers 1828 may be positioned a predetermined distance apart to form a plurality of notches 1830 between the keepers 1828. The keepers 1828 may form an integral part of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804. Additionally, the keepers 1828 may be separately fabricated from plastic, metal, carbon fiber, or any other rigid material that interfaces with the inner surface of each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 within the respective cavities.

The rotor 1806 may include a keeper ring 1834 and a magnet 1836. The keeper ring 1834 may be a cylindrical sleeve formed of iron or a similar ferritic (or non-ferritic) material. When the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 are coupled together, a portion of the keeper ring 1834 is positioned within the cavity of each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804. The keeper ring 1834 may be coupled with the keepers 1828 within each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 such that the keeper ring 1834 rotates with the inner housing 1104. The keeper ring 1834 may be configured as a flux concentrator to operate with the magnet 1836 to improve generator efficiency.

The magnet 1836 may be coupled to the keeper ring 1834 and likewise rotate with the inner housing 1104. Magnet 1836 may be a permanent magnet, such as a sintered or bonded neodymium iron boron (NdFeB) rare earth magnet. The magnet 1836 may form a continuous, single structure having a desired number of north and south poles configured along the structure. In addition, a plurality of individual magnets may be aligned with and coupled to the keeper 1834.

By directly coupling the magnet 1836 and the retainer 1828, the back EMF of the generator may be advantageously reduced. Thus, the keeper ring 1834 may be eliminated. As mentioned above, reducing the back EMF can accelerate faster, which is advantageous for certain loads, for example, that provide "just in time" performance of the UV light source.

The stator 1808 may form a plurality of poles 1840 wound around one or more stator windings (not shown), as described above. The poles 1840 may be metal laminates that are coupled to a mounting plate 1842. The mounting plate 1842 may be metal, plastic, or any other material and may be coupled to the centering rod 1106. The stator 1808 may be positioned within the cavity formed by the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 such that the magnet 1836 is positioned around the stator 1808 proximate the poles 1840 with an air gap therein.

The stator 1808 may be operated wet or dry, as the windings may be formed from a non-conductive material such as enamel coated on a wire to form the windings. Additionally, the windings may be overmolded with plastic, rubber, or other waterproof material. In addition to providing water resistance, such overmolding may also reduce the loss of fluid resistance as the inner housing 1104 rotates about the stator 1808 at high speeds.

The rotor 1806 and stator 1808 in combination may form a generator that produces three-phase electrical power. In addition, the generator may produce single phase electrical energy. The power generated by the generator may be provided on a power supply line 1844. The power supply lines 1844 may be electrically connected to the windings of the stator 1808. The power supply line 1844 may be routed through a passage extending along the central axis 1812 through the centering rod 1106. In addition to electrical energy, the rotation of the rotor and/or the electrical energy generated may be monitored for measurements based on the flow.

The air gap between the stator 1808 and the magnet 1836 may be maintained by the magnetic field of the magnet 1836 in combination with the centering rod 1106 and the surrounding bushings 1116. The stator 1808 may be coupled to the centering rod 1106. Thus, as the inner housing 1104 and the rotor 1806 rotate, the rotating magnetic field generates electrical energy within the windings of the stator 1808.

In operation, the inner housing 1104 may be rotated by a single high velocity stream of liquid at relatively high Revolutions Per Minute (RPM), for example, above 5000 RPM. Relatively high RPM may be achieved due to the relatively small size of the inner housing 1104 and reduced fluid resistance losses. The diameter of the generally cylindrical inner housing 1104 may be less than about 40 millimeters, such as in a range between about 40 millimeters and about 10 millimeters. Since the diameter of the nozzle outlet 1124 of the nozzle 1108 (fig. 11) may be in the range of about 1.9 millimeters to 0.8 millimeters, the nozzle outlet 1124 is between about 4.75% and about 8% of the diameter of the housing 1104.

The rotational speed of the inner housing 1104 and the amount of power generated by the generator may depend on the speed of the liquid discharged by the nozzle 1108 (fig. 11) and the diameter of the inner housing 1104. Thus, a range of electrical power may be output for a range of diameters of the nozzle outlet 1124 (FIG. 11) of the nozzle 1108 and a range of diameters of the inner housing 1104 within a range of liquid pressures and flow rates. For example, a range of diameters of the nozzle outlet 1124 of the nozzle 1108 between about 0.8 millimeters and about 1.9 millimeters may discharge amounts of about 0.44 liters/minute and about 4.16 liters/minute (about 0.115 gallons/minute and about 1.1 gallons/minute). The flow rate may depend on the pressure range (about 5lb/sq.in and about 60lb/sq.in) at the nozzle inlet 1122 (FIG. 11) between about 34kPa and about 413 kPa. The resulting rotation of the inner housing 1104 may generate between about 0.25 watts and about 30 watts of electrical power. In this example the electrical energy from the generator may directly drive the UV lamp or electronics and/or may be rectified to charge an energy storage device such as a capacitor, super capacitor, ultra capacitor and/or battery.

The magnet 1836 may also provide balancing and alignment of the inner housing 1104. The weight of the magnet 1836 may be configured to rotationally balance the rotation of the inner housing 1104 for increased efficiency. Thus, the housing 1104 may rotate smoothly at high PRMs, with minimal vibration or other effects associated with unbalanced rotation. As described above, the weight of the magnet 1836 may also be reduced due to efficient power generation at high RPM.

In addition, the magnetic field of the magnet 1836 may maintain the alignment of the rotor 1806 and the inner housing 1104 with the stator 1808. The substantially equally distributed magnetic field of the magnet 1836 may axially align the rotor 1806 and the stator 1808. Thus, the inner housing 1104 may also be axially aligned with the centering rod 1106. The bushings 1116 and the centering rod 1106 may help align the inner housing 1104, however, the inner housing 1104 may be suspended in alignment with the centering rod 1106 by the magnetic field of the magnet 1836. Thus, friction losses between the surrounding rotating bushings 1116 and the non-rotating centering rod 1106 may be minimized. Additionally, when the hydro-power generation system 12 is mounted vertically and horizontally, the magnetic field may maintain the relative positional relationship between the inner housing 1104 and the stator 1808 without the use of fasteners, latches, or any other mechanism to maintain the relative positioning.

As shown in fig. 11 and 18, the paddles 1118 may form a ring concentrically surrounding the inner housing 1104. The paddles 1118 may be separately manufactured components that are attached to the outer surface of the inner housing 1104. Each of the paddles 1118 may be held in place in one of the notches 1824 to form a ring when the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 are coupled together. Additionally, the paddles 1118 may be individually attached or attached in groups to the first and/or second hubs 1802 and 1804 by bonding, welding, friction fit, or any other mechanism.

The paddles 1118 may be manufactured separately and then assembled into a ring to reduce cost and improve manufacturing performance. Additionally, the diameter of the inner housing 1104, as well as the diameter of the paddles 1118, may be varied without significantly changing the geometry of the individual paddles 1118. The configuration of each individual paddle 1118 and the retaining ring 1820 in the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 may cooperate to hold the paddles 1118 in place in the notches 1824.

Fig. 19 is a view of an example of one of the paddles 1118 shown in fig. 18. The illustrated paddle 1118 may be generally concave and includes a base 1902, a first paddle section 1904, a second paddle section 1906, and a slot 1908. The base 1902 may be formed to fit within adjacent slots 1824 (FIG. 18) of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 (FIG. 18). The base 1902 may include a lower surface 1912 and a foot 1914. The lower surface 1912 may be curved with a predetermined radius of curvature similar to the radius of curvature of the inner surfaces of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 (fig. 18). The foot 1914 may be generally triangular in shape and include a first angled surface 1916, a second angled surface 1918, and a surface 1920.

Referring now to fig. 18 and 19, the base 1902 may be disposed in the adjacently positioned notches 1824 of each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804 when the paddles 1118 are installed in the inner housing 1104. The legs 1914 of each blade 1802 may be retained in the notches 1824 by the lugs 1822 on the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804. In the illustrated example, the first and second angled surfaces 1916 and 1918 may adjacently contact one of the lugs 1822 on each of the first and second hubs 1802 and 1804, respectively. Additionally, the surface 1920 may adjacently contact an adjacently mounted paddle 1118.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional top view of the paddle 1118 of FIG. 19 showing the first and second paddle sections 1904 and 1906 and the foot 1914. Also shown is the rear surface 2002 of the paddle 1118. When the paddles 1118 are mounted on the inner housing 104 (FIG. 11), the rear surface 2002 may adjacently contact a surface 1920 (FIG. 19) of the leg 1914 of an adjacently mounted paddle 1118. The base 1902 of each paddle 1118 may form a portion of a complete concentric ring proximate the outer surface of the inner housing 1104. The paddles 1118 may be held in place by friction fit, adhesive, welding, or any other attachment mechanism or material.

Referring again to FIG. 19, the first and second blade sections 1904 and 1906 may each be provided with a separate notch or recess capable of receiving a high velocity fluid stream. As best shown in FIG. 20, each of the first and second blade sections 1904 and 1906 may be elliptical in shape to optimize the flow of liquid against the blade sections 1904 and 1906. The slot 1918 allows the flow of liquid to effectively impact each of the paddles 1118 as the inner housing 1104 (FIG. 11) rotates at high RPM.

The hydro-power generation system 12 described above may also include the capabilities of a water treatment system. In one example, the hydro-power generation system 12 may be mounted on a faucet or other plumbing fixture. The inlet of the faucet mounted hydro-power generation system 12 may be connected to the water outlet end of the faucet. In addition to the described power generation capability, the hydro-power generation system 12 may include a carbon filter and an Ultraviolet (UV) lamp. Additionally, the hydro-power generation system 12 may include a liquid diverter to bypass the hydro-power generation system 12 when treated water is not desired. The hydro-power generation system 12 may also include a processing device, such as a microprocessor, to monitor the life of the UV lamps and filters. The hydro-power generation system 12 may provide the flow detection described above for use in monitoring filter life. In addition, a microprocessor may be employed to monitor the end of life of the UV lamp. In addition, tap and/or coil switching may be dynamically instructed by the microprocessor to provide a first voltage for said starting and subsequently driving the UV lamp.

Other applications that require electrical power and involve pressurized fluid flow may also be provided by the hydro-power generation system 12. For example, a plumbing fixture having a motion detector, an electrically operated valve, or any other device that requires a power source to operate may be included as part of the hydro-power generation system 12.

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary plumbing fixture 2100 for a toilet, such as a toilet or urinal, included as part of a hydro-power generation system. The plumbing fixture 2100 includes a water inlet 2102 for receiving water and a water outlet 2104 for discharging water. The plumbing fixture 2100 also includes a valve module 2106, an electronics module 2108, and a power generation module 2110. In other examples, a faucet, a shower head, or any other plumbing fixture having a control valve, a water inlet, and a water outlet are similarly included in the hydro-power generation system. As used herein, the term "plumbing fixture" is defined to include toilet related devices such as faucets, toilet flushing mechanisms, sprayers, and sprayers. Additionally, the plumbing fixture may include a sprayer, a sprinkler, or any other device and mechanism for controlling and/or directing the flow of liquid at a pressure of less than about 1034kPa (about 150ibs./sq. inch).

Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of the example plumbing fixture 2100 illustrated in fig. 21 including the inlet 2102, the outlet 2104, the valve module 2106, the electronic module 2108, and the power generation module 2110.

The valve module 2106 includes an electrically operated valve 2202. The electrically operated valve 2202 may be any electromechanical valve device that can be actuated with a voltage and current to open and close a liquid flow path. Upon activation, the electrically operated valve 2202 may move to a position that opens a liquid flow path via the valve module 2106. When the liquid flow path is open, pressurized liquid supplied by the inlet 2102 can flow through the valve module 2106 and the power generation module 2110 to the outlet 2104. Upon power loss, the electrically operated valve 2202 may close the liquid flow path, stopping the flow of liquid via the valve module 2106 and the power generation module 2110.

The power generation module 2110 includes an outer housing 1102, an inner housing 1104, a centering rod 1106 and a nozzle 1108 similar to the embodiment described in FIGS. 11-20. Therefore, detailed description of these structures will not be repeated. In other examples, similar structures and/or components to any of the other described embodiments may be included in the power generation module 2110. The outer housing 1102 may also include a drain 2204 to direct liquid toward the outlet 2104 after impact with the inner housing 1104. The inner housing 1102 may be removed as a unit from the plumbing fixture for maintenance and/or repair. Pressurized liquid supplied to the inlet 2102 is accelerated to a high velocity by the nozzle 1108 and directed at the paddles 1118 positioned on the outer surface of the inner housing 1104.

Most of the kinetic energy in the high velocity fluid flow is converted to rotational kinetic energy to rotate the inner housing 1104 at high RPM. The liquid falls by gravity into the water outlet 2104 of the plumbing fixture 2100. Liquid splash within the cavity of the outer housing 1102 can also be directed to the water outlet 2104 by the configuration of the inner surface 1112 of the outer housing 1102 and the drain opening. The high RPM rotation of the inner housing 1104 generates electrical energy by the permanent magnet generator included in the inner housing 1104. The power is generated by a generator on power supply line 1844. The power supply line 1844 may be routed to the electronics module 2108 using a passage in the centering rod 1106 and a conduit 2206.

The electronic module 2108 may include any related circuitry and components for the plumbing fixture 2100. The electronics housing 2108 includes a valve controller 2226, an energy storage device 2228, a power controller 2230, and a sensor 2332. The valve controller 2226 may be part of the electrically operated valve 2202, and may be any device that uses voltage and current to initiate opening and closing of the electrically operated valve 2202. The valve controller 2226 may include an electric motor, a rotary actuator, a solenoid valve, or any other device capable of moving a valve mechanism. Additionally, the valve controller 2226 may include a limit switch or any other form of position sensing device to determine the position of the electrically operated valve 2202. The valve controller 2226 may be powered by the energy storage device 2228.

The energy storage device 2228 may be a battery and/or a capacitor and/or any other circuit or device capable of storing energy in the form of voltage and current. The power controller 2230 is coupled to the valve controller 2226 and the energy storage device 238. The power controller 2230 may have any circuit or device capable of monitoring the magnitude of the voltage within the energy storage device 2228 and controlling the operation of the electrically operated valve 2202.

In operation, the magnitude of the voltage within the energy storage device 2228 is monitored by the power controller 2230. When the voltage decreases below a predetermined threshold, the electrically operated valve 2202 may be activated to open by the power controller 2230. Electrical power is supplied from the energy storage device 2228 to the valve controller 2226 to actuate the electrically operated valve 2202. When the electrically operated valve 2202 is opened, pressurized liquid flows through the valve module 2106 to the nozzle 1108. The pressurized high velocity liquid stream is directed at the inner housing 1104 through a nozzle 1108 to generate electrical energy. The electrical energy is used to recharge the energy storage device 2228.

The sensor 2232 may also activate the electrically operated valve 2202. The sensor 2232 may be a motion sensor, a temperature sensor, or any other form or detection device capable of detecting one or more parameters within the environment proximate the plumbing fixture 2100. In this example, sensor 2232 may be a motion sensor capable of detecting motion. In response to movement, the sensor 2221 may use electrical power from the energy storage device 2228 to actuate the electrically operated valve 2202 to open. The energy storage device 2228 may then be charged by the electrical energy generated by the flow of liquid from the generator in the power generation module 2110.

Fig. 23 is a circuit diagram of an example of the energy storage device 2228 and the power controller 2230. The illustrated energy storage device 2228 includes a first energy storage device 2302, a second energy storage device 2304 and a third energy storage device 2306. The power controller 2230 includes a processor 2308, a first charging switch 2310, a second charging switch 2312, a third charging switch 2314, a series/parallel switch 2316, and a load control switch 2318. In other examples, more or fewer energy storage devices may be used.

The first, second and third energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 may be any device capable of storing electrical energy. In the illustrated example, the first energy storage device 2302 is a battery and the second and third energy storage devices 2304 and 21306 are capacitors to maximize charging performance. The capacitor may be one or more electrolytic capacitors or electrochemical capacitors, such as a supercapacitor and/or ultracapacitor. In other examples, a battery, a capacitor, or any other configuration of batteries and capacitors may be used. Each of the first and second energy storage devices 2302 and 2304 is electrically connected to a ground connection 2320. The third energy storage device 2306 may be electrically connected to the ground connection 2320 through the series/parallel switch 2316.

The processor 2308 may be any form of computing device capable of implementing instructions to monitor inputs and provide outputs. The input to the processor 2308 includes input power supplied by a generator within the power generation module 2110 (fig. 21) on a power input line 2330. The power supplied by the generator may be three-phase or single-phase AC power that is rectified by one or more diodes to provide DC power to the processor 2308.

Other inputs to the processor 2308 include a first charge indication for the first energy storage device 2302 on a first charging line 2332 and respective second and third charge indications for the respective second and third energy storage devices 2304 and 2306 on respective second and third charging lines 2334 and 2336. The charging lines 2332, 2334, and 2336 indicate to the processor 2308 the amount of power stored in the respective energy storage devices 2302, 2304, and 2306. Additionally, in the illustrated example, the first charge indication and the second charge indication are provided as inputs to the processor 2308 on a first charge line 2338 and a second charge line 2340, respectively. The first charge indication provides an amount of discharge of the capacitor as the second energy storage device 2304. The second charge indication provides the amount of discharge of the capacitor as the third energy storage device 2306.

The output from the processor 2308 includes control signals that control the operation of the first charge control switch 2310, the second charge control switch 2312, and the third charge control switch 2314. Activation of the first charging control switch 2310 may provide a first charging voltage to the first energy storage device 2302 on a first charging line 2342. When the second charging control switch 2312 is closed, a second charging voltage may be provided to the second energy storage device 2304 on a second charging line 2344. The third charge control switch 2314 may be activated to provide a third charging voltage to the third energy storage device 2306 on a third charging line 2346.

The processor 2308 may also provide output control signals to instruct the load control switch 2318 to control the voltage on the load supply line 2348. The load supply line 2348 may provide power to the load. In this example, the load includes an electrically operated valve 2202 (fig. 22) and electronics included in an electronics module 2108 (fig. 21). In other examples, any other load may be supplied by load supply line 2348.

The power on the load supply line 2348 may be supplied by the processor 2308 from the generator in the power generation module 2110 and/or from power stored in one or more of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306. For example, when the generator is producing power, the processor 2308 may provide power directly to a load on the load supply line 2348. Additionally, the processor 2308 may provide a charging voltage to charge one or more of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 with the power generated by the generator. Additionally, the processor 2308 may provide power stored in one or more energy storage devices to the load supply line 2348 when, for example, the generator is not generating power (or is not generating sufficient power).

The processor 2308 may also provide a control output on a valve control line 2350 to control operation of the electrically operated valve 2202. An output from the processor 2308 on a status line 2352 may provide an operating status. The operating status may include an error indication, a state of charge on the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306, a position of the electrically operated valve 2202 (fig. 22), or any other operation related indication or parameter. The status line 2352 may be connected with any form of user interface, such as a Light Emitting Diode (LED), a display, an audio alarm, etc.

The series/parallel switch 2316 includes a series switch 2356 and a parallel switch 2358. The processor 2308 may provide outputs to indicate the operation of the series switch 2356 and the parallel switch 2358. The series switch 2356 and the parallel switch 2358 may configure the second and third energy storage devices 2304 and 2306 in a parallel configuration or a series configuration.

In the parallel configuration, a smaller discharge voltage may be separately supplied to the load through the second and third energy storage devices 2304 and 2306. In the series configuration, a larger discharge voltage may be supplied to the load by the combined discharge of the second and second energy storage devices 2304 and 2306. The processor 2308, the charge control switches 2310, 2312 and 2314, the series/parallel switch 2316 and the load control switch 2318 may employ Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). In addition, separate components or separate groupings of components may be used.

Instructions stored in the memory may be implemented by the processor 2308 to provide charging and discharging control of the first, second and third energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306. Control using the processor 2308 may depend on the determined threshold voltage, the determined threshold charge level, and the input power supplied by the generator within the discharge module 2110.

The determined threshold charge level of each of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 may be a fully charged state determined based on the performance of the individual energy storage devices. First, second, and third discharge level thresholds for each of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 may also be determined. Each discharge level threshold may include a discharge limit and a discharge termination. The discharge limit may indicate that the charge level is depleted to some extent below the fully charged state. The end of discharge represents the charge depletion to below the maximum required charge depletion.

Additionally, the processor 2308 may include timing functionality to provide an indication of the status of the energy storage devices 230, 2304 and 2306. The charge timer may be initiated by the processor 2308 to begin timing when one of the energy storage devices is charging. The timing of the charging timer may be used to determine the percentage of full charge, the charging speed, etc., based on the indication of charging on the charging line for the particular energy storage device being charged. The determination related to charging may be provided on a status line 2352. Similarly, a discharge timer may be initiated by the processor 2308 to begin timing in each discharge cycle of the second and third energy storage devices 2304 and 2306. The discharge indications on the respective discharge lines 2338 and 2340 may be used by the discharge timer to indicate the percentage of discharge, the rate of discharge, etc. of each of the second and third energy storage devices 2304 and 2306 on the status line 2352.

The processor 2308 may selectively charge one or more of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 when the generator in the power generation module 2110 is generating power. For example, when the flow of liquid is relatively high at a relatively high pressure, the generator may generate a sufficient amount of electrical energy at the relatively high pressure. Under these conditions, the processor 2308 may activate the first charging switch 2310, the second charging switch 2312 and the third charging switch 2314 simultaneously to charge all of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306. Additionally, the processor 2308 may activate fewer than all of the first, second and third charging switches 2310, 2312 and 2314 when generating a smaller or lower voltage power.

In operation, the load control switch 2318 may be activated by the processor 2308 to supply power to a load when the power stored in one or more of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 is above a determined discharge limit. When the load consumes power and, thus, causes the one or more energy storage devices to discharge below the discharge limit, the processor 2308 may activate the electrically-operated valve 2202 (fig. 22) to open via the control signal on the valve control line 2350. When load power on the load supply line 2348 is lost, the electrically operated valve 2202 (fig. 22) may remain open and the generator in the power generation module 2110 may continue to supply power. Additionally, in the event of a loss of power, the electrically operated valve 2202 may be closed, the input power from the generator may be stopped and the power from the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 may be used by the processor 2308 to indicate an error on the status line 2352. The error may be indicated by, for example, a flashing Light Emitting Diode (LED).

The processor 2308 may selectively switch the series/parallel switch 2316 to maximize the discharge time as power is discharged from one or more of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306. Additionally, the voltage on the load supply line 2348 may be maintained by selectively switching the series/parallel switch 2316 when a discharge occurs in order to maximize efficiency. In addition, the processor 2308 may convert the magnitude of the output voltage to other voltage magnitudes by selectively switching the series/parallel switch 2316. For example, a generator input voltage from about 6VDC may be converted to 3VDC by the processor 2308. In another example, 1.5VDC supplied from the generator may be converted to 6VDC by the processor 2308.

Fig. 24 is another exemplary circuit diagram of the energy storage device 2228 and the power controller 2230. In this example, the power controller 2230 includes a processor 2308. The energy storage device 2228 includes a plurality of energy storage devices having a first capacitor 2402, a second capacitor 2404, a third capacitor 2406 and a fourth capacitor 2408 electrically connected to a ground line 2410. In another example, other configurations and numbers of energy storage devices may be used, such as a battery in place of the fourth capacitor 2408.

The processor 2308 may control the charging and discharging of the fourth capacitor 2408 through a charge control line 2412. The charging of the fourth capacitor 2408 may be with power supplied by a power input line 2330. The discharge of the fourth capacitor 2408 may be dependent on the load supplied by the load supply line 2348. The load may include the electrically operated valve 2202 (fig. 22) and/or any other electronics in the electronics module 2108 (fig. 21).

The processor 2308 may provide a regulated output voltage to a load on the load supply line 2348. The power supplied on the load supply line 2348 may come from the generator, the first capacitor 2402 and/or the fourth capacitor 2408. The second and third capacitors 2404 and 2406 may provide noise suppression of any high frequency transients present on the load supply line 2348.

Similar to the example of fig. 23, the processor 2308 may monitor the charge depletion of the fourth capacitor 2408 below the charge limit level and transmit a control signal on the valve control line 2350 to open the electrically operated valve 2202 (fig. 22). The resulting flow of fluid may turn the generator in the power generation module 2110 (fig. 21) at high RPM to produce electrical power on the power input line 2330. If the charge on the fourth capacitor 2408 is depleted to the point that the discharge terminates, an error may be generated on the status line 2350, and the electrically operated valve 2202 (fig. 22) may be de-energized and disconnect power to the load.

Fig. 25 is a flowchart representative of exemplary operation of the power controller 2230 of fig. 22-23. Operations begin at block 2502 when the desired output voltage to the load, the desired charge level, and the desired discharge level thresholds (discharge limit and discharge termination) are established and stored in the processor 2308. At block 2504, the processor 2308 may implement instructions to monitor the supply voltage on the power input line 2330, as well as the charging and discharging voltages of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306.

At block 2506, the processor 2308 determines whether the magnitude of the supply voltage is equal to or greater than the desired output voltage to the load. If the supply voltage is greater than the desired output voltage, the processor 2308 activates one or more of the charging switches 2310, 2312 and 2314 to supply power from the power supply line 2330 to charge one or more of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 at block 2508. At block 2510, the processor 2308 may initiate one or more charge timers 2310, 2312 and 2314 that monitor the energy storage device. Additionally, at block 2512, the processor 2308 may cause power to be supplied from the input power line 2330 to the load on the load supply line 2348. Operation then returns to block 2504 to continue monitoring the voltage and charging.

If the supply voltage is not greater than or equal to the desired output voltage at block 2506, the processor 2308 determines if the supply voltage on the input power line 2330 is less than the desired output voltage by a predetermined amount at block 2518. If the supply voltage is less than the desired output voltage by at least a predetermined amount, the processor 2308 causes one or more of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 to begin discharging the stored charge on the stored power lines 2332, 2334 and 2336 at block 2520. The processor 2308 may provide the stored charge as an output voltage and current on a load supply line 2348 to supply a load. At block 2522, the processor 2308 starts a discharge timer to monitor the discharge of power from each of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306. Operation then returns to block 2504 to continue monitoring the voltage and charging.

If the supply voltage is not less than the desired output voltage at block 2518, the processor 2308 determines if all of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are fully charged at block 2526. If all of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are fully charged, the processor 2308 determines whether the electrically operated valve 2202 is open at block 2528. If the electrically operated valve 2202 is not open, operation returns to block 2504 and the voltage is monitored. If the electrically operated valve 2202 is open, the processor 2308 sends a signal on the valve control line 2350 to close the electrically operated valve 2202 at block 2530. When the electrically operated valve 2202 is closed, the generator in the power generation module 2100 stops generating electrical power.

At block 2532, the discharge timer is reset and operation returns to block 2504 to monitor voltage and charge. If the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are not fully charged at block 2526, the processor 2308 determines if any of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are discharged less than the discharge cutoff at block 2536. If the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are discharged to less than the discharge cutoff, the processor 2308 interrupts the supply of output power on the output power line 2348 at block 2538. Additionally, at block 2540, the processor 2308 sends a signal on the valve control line 2350 to close the electrically operated valve 2202. At block 2542, the processor 2308 provides instructions on the status line 2352 to not charge the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306. Operation then returns to 2504 to monitor voltage and charge.

If at block 2536 none of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are discharged to less than the discharge cutoff, the processor 2308 determines if any of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are discharged to less than the discharge limit at block 2546. If any of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are discharged to less than the discharge limit, the processor 2308 sends a control signal on the valve control line 2350 to open the electrically operated valve 2202 at block 2548. When the electrically operated valve 2202 is open, the generator within the power generation module 2110 generates power on the power input line 2330. Operation returns to block 2504 to charge the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 and supply power from the generator to the load. If at block 2546 none of the energy storage devices 2302, 2304 and 2306 are discharged to less than the discharge limit, operation returns to block 2504 and the voltage and charge are monitored.

In another example, similar to fig. 21, the hydro-power generation system may include a plumbing fixture as a faucet system. The faucet system may include a valve module 2106, an electronics module 2108, and a power generation module 2110. The generator in the power generation module 2110 may be charged in at least one energy storage device in the power generation module 2108. The power controller included in the electronics module 2108 may perform direct charging until the energy storage device is charged. This will allow the faucet system to use stored electrical energy outside the time period that liquid is flowing through the faucet system. Additionally, if the faucet system is not in use for a long period of time, a simple momentary manual button may cause the flow of fluid to turn the generator in the power generation module 2110 to recharge the energy storage device.

In yet another example, the hydro-power generation system may include a plumbing fixture as a shower head. The showerhead may include a radio and/or other water resistant electronics. The radio may be waterproof and include AM, FM, compact disc, or any other entertainment device. The hydro-power generation system includes a similar structure to the system shown in figures 9 and 10. The generator formed by the turbine rotating within the stator may be the source of electricity to charge a capacitor, supercapacitor or ultracapacitor. This provides power to the electronic device that does not require a maintenance cycle to replace the power source, for example, if the power source is a battery. The showerhead may also include a shower timer with an alarm and pre-heat indicator to maintain shower timing. The alarm may be used to keep the length of the shower for a predetermined time. Additionally, the showerhead may include a clock having a display that illuminates when the shower is taking place. In the absence of fluid flow, the clock may be operated by the energy storage device without illumination to conserve power.

Fig. 26 illustrates the hydro-power generation system 12 including an outer housing 2602, an inner housing 2604, a centering rod 2606, and a nozzle 2608. The inner housing 2604 is positioned within a cavity 2610 formed within the outer housing 2602 and includes a plurality of paddles 2612 positioned on an outer surface 2613 of the inner housing 2604. The outer housing 2602 includes an outlet 2614 and an inner wall 2616. The configuration of the hydro-power generation system 12 shown in FIG. 26 is similar in many respects to the example hydro-power generation system. Accordingly, for the sake of brevity, the following description will focus on differences from the examples.

In the example shown, the outer housing 2602 includes an inner housing portion 2618, a nozzle portion 2620, a drain portion 2622, and a flow collection portion 2624. The inner housing portion 2618 forms a portion of the adjacent surrounding inner housing 2604. The paddles 2612 are positioned proximate to an inner wall 2616 of the inner housing portion 2618 to reduce fluid resistance. As with the example, the inner wall 2626 in the inner housing portion 2618 can include a conduit (not shown) that directs liquid toward the outlet 2614.

The nozzle portion 2620 forms a top of the outer housing 2602 and is configured to receive the nozzle 2608. The nozzle 2608 is positioned through the outer housing 2602 and directs a generally vertical stream of liquid at the paddles 2612 of the inner housing 2604. The generally vertical flow may be discharged from the nozzle outlet 2626 of the nozzle 2608 in a well-defined generally laminar flow manner at a relatively high velocity. The liquid stream after discharge may generally maintain the diameter of the nozzle outlet 2626. Liquid splashing can thus be reduced and the kinetic energy in the liquid flow can be concentrated in a relatively small area.

Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of the hydro-power generation system 12 including the outer housing 2602, the inner housing 2604, the centering rod 2606, and the nozzle 2608. The inner housing 2604 includes paddles 2612. The outer housing 2602 includes an inner housing portion 2612, a nozzle portion 2620, a drain portion 2622 and a flow collection portion 2624.

After the fluid stream impacts the paddles 2612, the fluid stream may enter the drain section 2622. Due to the impingement, the liquid stream may become a dispersed liquid stream having a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the nozzle outlet 2624. In addition, liquid splashing may be generated by the impact and rotation of the inner housing 2604. The diameter of the dispersed stream (spray pattern) may depend on the velocity of the stream and the amount of electrical load on the generator. The inner housing 2604 may rotate relatively freely when there is a small load on the generator. Therefore, the dispersion amount of the dispersion liquid flow is relatively small, for example, a dispersion angle of 30 degrees is formed with respect to the central axis 2702 coaxial with the liquid flow discharged from the nozzle 2608. Conversely, when there is a large load, a large force is required to keep the inner housing 2604 rotating, and the dispersion of the dispersion flow may cause the dispersion angle to be as large as 90 degrees with respect to the central axis 2702. Regardless of the load, the collision of the liquid with the paddles 2612 can create liquid splash and a dispersed liquid stream. For the purpose of explanation, it is assumed that the dispersion angle of the dispersion liquid flow is about 45 degrees. In other examples, greater or lesser dispersion angles may be used.

Also shown in FIG. 27 is an impact point 2704 and a plurality of trajectory vectors 2706. The impact point 2704 may be the region where a well-defined, generally linear stream of liquid discharged by the nozzle 2608 collides with the paddles 2612. The trajectory vector 2706 represents the path of the liquid after impact with the paddles 2612 according to the dispersion angle. Liquid following these trajectory vectors 2706 closer to the central axis 2702 may directly enter the collection portion 2624 and be directed to the outlet 2614.

The liquid in trajectory 2706 further exits central axis 2702 while colliding with inner surface 2616 within discharge portion 26. The liquid is effectively directed to the outlet 2614 so as to reduce fluid resistance. In addition, liquid splashing due to nozzles with the interior surface 2616 is reduced. At the drain portion 2622, the inner surface 2616 is configured with a predetermined shape so as to effectively direct liquid to the outlet and reduce liquid splash. Thus, the previously described conduits on the inner surface 2616 are not required. Conversely, the inner surface within the second segment 2710 may remain substantially flat and shaped to act as a reflector and effectively drain liquid from the outer housing 2602 and reduce fluid resistance. Thus, the cavity 2610 may remain substantially dry with a liquid flow rate in the range of about 0.44 liters/minute to about 4.16 liters/minute.

As further shown in fig. 27, the interior surface 2616 within the drain portion 2622 may be configured with a predetermined shape. The predetermined shape may depend on the trajectory flow angle 2708 formed between each trajectory vector 2706 and the inner surface 2626 within the discharge portion 2622. The trajectory flow angle 2708 is defined as the angle at which the inner surface 2616 intersects the trajectory vector 2706 after the dispersed liquid stream and liquid splash due to impact with the paddles 2612. The shape of the inner surface 2616 can be designed to maintain a trajectory flow angle 2708 after the dispersion flow of less than about 20 degrees. The trajectory flow angle 2708 is varied by plus or minus 5 degrees depending on manufacturing tolerances and/or physical properties associated with the fluid.

The shape of the inner surface 2616 of the second segment 2710 in the example shown is configured as a generally conical rocket nozzle. The shape of the inner surface may depend on the simulation or analysis of the dispersion flow due to impact with the rotating paddles 2612. By maintaining the trajectory flow angle 2708 after the dispersion flow to within about 20 degrees of the inner surface 2616, the liquid can be maintained in a more stable state with less non-laminar flow.

The more stable state allows the cavity 2610 to empty relatively faster. Accordingly, the overall size of the outer housing 2602 may be reduced while still keeping the inner and outer housings 2602, 2604 substantially dry as liquid is discharged from the nozzle 2608. Additionally, the flow of liquid out of outlet 2614 has a certain amount of velocity due to the similarity in shape to the interior surface and trajectory examples 2706. In addition, the more stable flow reduces liquid splashing and turbulence, thus reducing fluid drag and maximizing the conversion of kinetic energy into rotational energy.

The shape of the drain section 2622 of the outer housing 2602 may also be used in the previously described examples of the hydro-power generation system. For example, referring to the hydro-power generation system 12 of FIG. 11, the outer housing 1102 may be rotated 90 degrees such that the nozzles 1108 discharge the flow of liquid vertically. Additionally, the outlet 1114 may be moved to the wall of the outer housing 1102 opposite the nozzle 1108, and the outer housing may be reshaped to achieve a trajectory flow angle for a trajectory vector of about 29 degrees or less. In the exemplary hydro-power generation system of fig. 21, the outer housing 12 upstream of the outlet 2104 of the plumbing fixture 2100 may be simply reshaped to achieve a trajectory flow angle for a trajectory vector of about 29 degrees or less.

The preferred embodiment of the hydro-power generation system provides a separate power source for other devices included in, for example, a plumbing fixture or water treatment system. The hydro-power generation system 12 provides efficient conversion of energy present in the water treatment system 10 to electrical energy. The electrical energy may be used to power electronics and other devices within the hydro-power generation system. In addition, the electrical energy may power other independent systems, such as water treatment systems. As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, the application of the hydro-power generation system is not limited to water and may be advantageously used with other fluids.

While the invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be apparent that various changes and modifications may be made to these embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The appended claims are to encompass all equivalents and are intended to define the spirit and scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A hydro-power generation system, comprising:

an inner housing including a plurality of paddles that are substantially concave and positioned to extend outwardly from an outer surface of the inner housing;

a single nozzle configured to direct a single stream of liquid at the paddles to cause rotation of the inner housing;

a centering rod extending through the inner housing, the inner housing rotatable about the centering rod in response to liquid impacting the paddles; and

a generator disposed within the inner housing, wherein the generator includes a stator coupled to the centering rod and a rotor coupled to an inner surface of the inner housing, wherein the rotor rotates about the stator when the inner housing rotates to generate electrical energy.

2. The hydro-power generation system of claim 1, wherein the inner housing further comprises a plurality of vents that are fluidly communicable with the generator, the vents being concentrically configured about the outer surface to reduce an amount of liquid present within the inner housing as the inner housing rotates such that the inner housing remains substantially filled with gas.

3. The hydro-power generation system of claim 1, wherein each of the blades comprises first and second elliptical blade sections positioned perpendicular to the outer surface and a base configured to be coupled to the outer surface and to form a portion of a complete concentric ring adjacent the outer surface formed by the blades.

4. The hydro-power generation system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle comprises an axial bore having a nozzle outlet, the nozzle outlet having a diameter of less than 2 millimeters, and wherein the inner housing is rotated by the fluid stream at a speed of greater than 5000 RPM.

5. The hydro-power generation system of claim 1, wherein the nozzle comprises ribs extending through the nozzle channel to reduce turbulence of the liquid flowing through the channel.

6. The hydro-power generation system of claim 1, wherein the inner housing is configured to rotate at a speed of greater than 5000RPM through a flow of between 0.44 liters/minute and 4.16 liters/minute.

7. The hydro-power generation system of claim 1, wherein the inner housing is substantially cylindrical in shape and has a diameter of less than 40 millimeters.

8. The hydro-power generation system of claim 1, further comprising an outer housing surrounding the inner housing, wherein the outer housing is coupled to the nozzle and includes an outlet and a plurality of fingers positioned along a plurality of channels on an inner surface of the outer housing to direct liquid to the outlet.

9. A hydro-power generation system, comprising:

a nozzle;

an inner housing having a cavity, a plurality of discharge ports coaxially disposed on an outer surface of the inner housing, and a plurality of paddles mounted perpendicular to the outer surface of the inner housing, wherein the nozzle is configured to direct a flow of liquid at the paddles so as to cause the inner housing to rotate, the discharge ports being configured to discharge liquid from the cavity as the inner housing rotates so that the cavity remains dry;

a centering rod extending through the inner housing, the inner housing rotatable about the centering rod; and

a generator disposed within the cavity, the generator including a stator coupled to the centering rod and a rotor coupled to the inner housing, wherein the rotor is positioned within the inner housing to rotate about the stator when the inner housing rotates.

10. The hydro-power generation system of claim 9, wherein the vent provides fluid communication between the cavity and an outer surface of the inner housing to expel liquid from the cavity by centrifugal force as the inner housing rotates.

11. The hydro-power generation system of claim 9, wherein the nozzle comprises a passageway between the nozzle inlet and the nozzle outlet, the passageway comprising a first angled portion forming the nozzle inlet, a first straight portion continuous with the first angled portion, a tapered portion continuous with the first straight portion, a second angled portion continuous with the tapered portion, and a second straight portion continuous with the second angled portion and forming the nozzle outlet.

12. The hydro-power generation system of claim 9, wherein the nozzle comprises a first straight portion proximate the nozzle inlet and having a diameter of 5.8 millimeters and a second straight portion forming the nozzle outlet and having a diameter of less than 1.9 millimeters.

13. The hydro-power generation system of claim 9, wherein the nozzle comprises a channel having ribs extending outwardly from an inner surface of the channel toward a central axis of the channel to reduce non-laminar flow of the fluid through the channel.

14. The hydro-power generation system of claim 9, wherein the nozzle is the only nozzle and the inner housing is configured to rotate at 5000RPM or greater when the rotation is caused by a flow of liquid from the nozzle between 0.44 liters/minute and 4.16 liters/minute.

15. The hydro-power generation system of claim 9, wherein the nozzle comprises a nozzle outlet, the nozzle outlet having a diameter of less than 1.9 millimeters, and the inner housing having a diameter of less than 40 millimeters.

16. The hydro-power generation system of claim 9, wherein the nozzle comprises a channel having a first diameter proximate the nozzle inlet and a second diameter forming the nozzle outlet, wherein the second diameter is 33% or less of the first diameter.

17. A hydro-power generation system, comprising:

a centering rod;

a sleeve positioned around the centering rod;

an inner housing connected to the sleeve, wherein the inner housing and the sleeve are rotatable about the centering rod;

a plurality of paddles connected to the outer surface of the inner housing, wherein the paddles are substantially concave and extend longitudinally outward from the outer surface of the inner housing perpendicular to the centering rod; and

a permanent magnet generator enclosed within the inner housing, the permanent magnet generator including a stator connected to the centering rod and a rotor connected to the inner surface of the inner housing;

wherein the rotor and the stator cooperate to maintain the position of the sleeve around the centering rod without contact between the sleeve and the centering rod.

18. The hydro-power generation system of claim 17, wherein the rotor comprises a permanent magnet configured to rotationally balance the rotation of the inner housing.

19. The hydro-power generation system of claim 17, wherein the rotor comprises a permanent magnet having a magnetic field configured to levitate the rotor in axial alignment with the stator.

20. The hydro-power generation system of claim 17, further comprising an outer housing surrounding the inner housing, wherein the centering rod extends through opposite ends of the inner housing and is non-rotatably coupled to the outer housing.

21. The hydro-power generation system of claim 17, wherein the inner housing is substantially cylindrical and has a diameter between 40 mm and 20 mm and is configured to rotate at a speed above 5000 RPM.

22. The hydro-power generation system of claim 17, wherein each sleeve comprises a bushing having an opening formed to receive the centering rod.

23. The hydro-power generation system of claim 17, wherein the bushings are disposed on opposite ends of the inner housing and include openings to receive the centering rods and an outer surface formed to fit within the openings in the outer surface of the inner housing.

24. The hydro-power generation system of claim 17, further comprising an ultraviolet light source coupled to the permanent magnet generator, wherein the stator comprises a plurality of coils configured to dynamically switch between a parallel configuration and a series configuration to provide a first voltage to start the ultraviolet light source and a second voltage to continue driving the ultraviolet light source.

25. The hydro-power generation system of claim 24, wherein the ultraviolet light source is one of a mercury lamp and a cold cathode lamp, the lamp being started initially and driven further without a ballast.

26. A method of generating power from a hydro-power generation system, the method comprising:

accelerating the velocity of the liquid stream through a single nozzle;

discharging a liquid stream out of the nozzle via the air space so as to impact a plurality of paddles, wherein the paddles are substantially concave and extend outwardly perpendicular to the outer surface of the inner shell;

converting kinetic energy in the liquid flow into rotational kinetic energy of the inner shell;

rotating the inner shell and the permanent magnet connected with the inner surface of the inner shell through liquid flow;

rotating the permanent magnet about a stator non-rotatably positioned within the inner housing; and

electric energy is generated by the rotor and stator.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising rotating the inner housing at 5000RPM or greater with kinetic energy provided by the liquid flowing between 0.44 liters/minute and 4.16 liters/minute.

28. The method of claim 26, further comprising draining the liquid from the inner housing through a plurality of drain openings disposed in a surface of the inner housing such that the rotor and the stator are substantially dry.

29. The method of claim 26 further including maintaining the paddles as complete concentric rings on an outer surface of the inner housing with the paddles positioned in series and compressing the paddles between a first hub and a second hub forming the inner housing.

30. The method of claim 26, further comprising levitating the rotor in axial alignment with the stator in a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet.

31. The method of claim 26, further comprising directing the liquid away from the inner housing to prevent the inner housing and the nozzle from entering the liquid such that the inner housing and the nozzle remain substantially dry.

32. The method of claim 26, further comprising keeping the inner housing and the outer housing including the inner housing substantially dry while the nozzle is spraying the liquid.

33. The method of claim 26, further comprising shaping an inner surface of a discharge portion included in the outer housing to trap liquid colliding with the paddles, wherein the inner surface of the discharge portion is configured to receive liquid at a flow trajectory angle of 20 degrees or less.

34. The method of claim 26, further comprising trapping liquid splashes outside of the inner housing, wherein the liquid splashes are trapped by a plurality of pyramidal members included on an inner surface of an outer housing surrounding the inner housing, so as to reduce fluid resistance.