CA2692665A1 - Converter gear assembly and a water powered generator utilizing same - Google Patents
Converter gear assembly and a water powered generator utilizing same Download PDFInfo
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- CA2692665A1 CA2692665A1 CA2692665A CA2692665A CA2692665A1 CA 2692665 A1 CA2692665 A1 CA 2692665A1 CA 2692665 A CA2692665 A CA 2692665A CA 2692665 A CA2692665 A CA 2692665A CA 2692665 A1 CA2692665 A1 CA 2692665A1
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- Prior art keywords
- shaft
- input shaft
- output shaft
- gear
- transfer
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
- F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
- F03B13/12—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
- F03B13/14—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
- F03B13/16—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem"
- F03B13/18—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem" where the other member, i.e. rem is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
- F03B13/1845—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem" where the other member, i.e. rem is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore and the wom slides relative to the rem
- F03B13/1855—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem" where the other member, i.e. rem is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore and the wom slides relative to the rem where the connection between wom and conversion system takes tension and compression
- F03B13/186—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem" where the other member, i.e. rem is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore and the wom slides relative to the rem where the connection between wom and conversion system takes tension and compression the connection being of the rack-and-pinion type
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16H—GEARING
- F16H3/00—Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio or for reversing rotary motion
- F16H3/003—Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio or for reversing rotary motion the gear ratio being changed by inversion of torque direction
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/30—Energy from the sea, e.g. using wave energy or salinity gradient
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
Abstract
A converter gear assembly to extract energy from reciprocating input motion is provided. The assembly utilizes input and output shafts. Dual gear sets, which optionally have different gearing ratios, are used to alternately transfer rotation of the input shaft to the output shaft. A power generation system that uses a converter gear assembly to provide water to a storage tank. The water is used to drive a power output member.
Description
TITLE: CONVERTER GEAR ASSEMBLY AND A WATER POWERED
GENERATOR UTILIZING SAME
FIELD
This invention relates to a converter gear assembly, which comprises a mechanical conversation system that allows an output shaft to have a unidirectional spin regardless of the rotation of the input shaft. This invention also relates to a power generation system, which utilizes the converter gear assembly to either directly or indirectly produce power, preferably electricity.
INTRODUCTION
Various types of wave power generators are known. See for example US 3,911,287; US 4,122,676; US 4,145,885; US 4,438,343; US
4,598,547 and, US 6,247,308.
US 3,911,287 discloses a wave powered generator in which one or more floats rotates an input shaft. The input shaft has two input gears, which connect to output gears by chains. The output gears connect to the output shaft by one or more clutches. Rotation of the input shaft in either direction causes only one of the clutches to engage such that the output shaft spins unidirectionally.
US 4,122,676 discloses a wave powered generator in which submerged propellers are driven by the movement of waves. The propellers are fixed in position and drive a pair of ratchet wheels. The ratchet wheels use cables to drive the output shaft.
US 4,145,885 discloses a wave powered motor in which a float is rotatably connected to a shaft whose movement is constrained to linear vertical motion. The shaft operates as a rack at one end and engages two ratcheted pinions. One pinion is directly connected to the output shaft and the other is connected by way of a chain so as to cause opposite directions of rotation.
US 4,438,343 discloses system for use in a boat. In this particular system, an apparatus is mounted to the bottom of a boat. A housing is secured to the boat and contains a power generating member. The rocking of the boat causes the housing and the shafts to rotate, thereby producing a power output.
US 4,598,547 discloses a wave powered generator in which a float is rigidly connected to a shaft, which is rigidly connected to an input shaft.
The input shaft is connected to two perpendicular rods. Each rod has its terminal end.
The chains engage ratcheted gears, which drive the output shaft. The chains are arranged such that each chain rotates the gears in opposite direction.
US 6,247,308 discloses an apparatus wherein one or more floats are connected to drive an input shaft. As exemplified in the drawings, a plurality of input shafts are arranged perpendicular to the output shaft and are used to drive the output shaft.
Accordingly, various different mechanisms are known, many of which utilize chains as part of the drive mechanism. Each of the mechanisms is relatively complicated.
SUMMARY
In accordance with this invention, an improved converter gear assembly is provided. The converter gear assembly utilizes input and output shafts that are parallel to each other. Two transfer shafts, which are preferably spaced apart, may be utilized to convey power from the input shaft to the output shaft. Accordingly, the load provided to the output shaft is distributed at different locations on the output shaft. A further advantage is that the use of two transfer shafts can permit different gearing ratios for different motions. For example, a first gear ratio may be utilized to transfer power from the input shaft to the output shaft when the output shaft is driven in a first direction (e.g. by a float that is driven upwardly by a wave). At the same time, a different gear ratio may be utilized to transmit power from the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft is rotated in the opposite direction (e.g. by the downward movement of a float due to the passing of a wave). Accordingly, the converter gear assembly may be adapted to convert input power to output power taking into account the fact that the force driving the reciprocating member that is drivingly connected to the converter gear assembly may have different forces applied to it when moving in alternate directions.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention, the output shaft may be used to directly drive a power output member (e.g. an electrical generator). Alternately, the output shaft may indirectly produce power.
Accordingly, the assembly may be used to provide controlled release of energy obtained from an oscillating source. For example, the output shaft may be used to power a water pump. The water pump may be used to transfer water into a water reservoir (e.g. a storage tank at an elevated height to a power generator).
Water may flow from the water reservoir to a power generator (e.g. an electrical generator) preferably at a controlled rate. For example, while the feed rate of water to the storage tank may be variable due to the output power provided by the output shaft, the storage tank may act as a surge vessel whereby a constant flow rate of water may be provided to an electrical generator thereby permitting the electrical generator to operate more efficiently.
Accordingly, in accordance with this invention there is provided an apparatus for extracting energy from reciprocating input motion comprising:
(a) a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis;
(b) a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel;
GENERATOR UTILIZING SAME
FIELD
This invention relates to a converter gear assembly, which comprises a mechanical conversation system that allows an output shaft to have a unidirectional spin regardless of the rotation of the input shaft. This invention also relates to a power generation system, which utilizes the converter gear assembly to either directly or indirectly produce power, preferably electricity.
INTRODUCTION
Various types of wave power generators are known. See for example US 3,911,287; US 4,122,676; US 4,145,885; US 4,438,343; US
4,598,547 and, US 6,247,308.
US 3,911,287 discloses a wave powered generator in which one or more floats rotates an input shaft. The input shaft has two input gears, which connect to output gears by chains. The output gears connect to the output shaft by one or more clutches. Rotation of the input shaft in either direction causes only one of the clutches to engage such that the output shaft spins unidirectionally.
US 4,122,676 discloses a wave powered generator in which submerged propellers are driven by the movement of waves. The propellers are fixed in position and drive a pair of ratchet wheels. The ratchet wheels use cables to drive the output shaft.
US 4,145,885 discloses a wave powered motor in which a float is rotatably connected to a shaft whose movement is constrained to linear vertical motion. The shaft operates as a rack at one end and engages two ratcheted pinions. One pinion is directly connected to the output shaft and the other is connected by way of a chain so as to cause opposite directions of rotation.
US 4,438,343 discloses system for use in a boat. In this particular system, an apparatus is mounted to the bottom of a boat. A housing is secured to the boat and contains a power generating member. The rocking of the boat causes the housing and the shafts to rotate, thereby producing a power output.
US 4,598,547 discloses a wave powered generator in which a float is rigidly connected to a shaft, which is rigidly connected to an input shaft.
The input shaft is connected to two perpendicular rods. Each rod has its terminal end.
The chains engage ratcheted gears, which drive the output shaft. The chains are arranged such that each chain rotates the gears in opposite direction.
US 6,247,308 discloses an apparatus wherein one or more floats are connected to drive an input shaft. As exemplified in the drawings, a plurality of input shafts are arranged perpendicular to the output shaft and are used to drive the output shaft.
Accordingly, various different mechanisms are known, many of which utilize chains as part of the drive mechanism. Each of the mechanisms is relatively complicated.
SUMMARY
In accordance with this invention, an improved converter gear assembly is provided. The converter gear assembly utilizes input and output shafts that are parallel to each other. Two transfer shafts, which are preferably spaced apart, may be utilized to convey power from the input shaft to the output shaft. Accordingly, the load provided to the output shaft is distributed at different locations on the output shaft. A further advantage is that the use of two transfer shafts can permit different gearing ratios for different motions. For example, a first gear ratio may be utilized to transfer power from the input shaft to the output shaft when the output shaft is driven in a first direction (e.g. by a float that is driven upwardly by a wave). At the same time, a different gear ratio may be utilized to transmit power from the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft is rotated in the opposite direction (e.g. by the downward movement of a float due to the passing of a wave). Accordingly, the converter gear assembly may be adapted to convert input power to output power taking into account the fact that the force driving the reciprocating member that is drivingly connected to the converter gear assembly may have different forces applied to it when moving in alternate directions.
In accordance with another embodiment of this invention, the output shaft may be used to directly drive a power output member (e.g. an electrical generator). Alternately, the output shaft may indirectly produce power.
Accordingly, the assembly may be used to provide controlled release of energy obtained from an oscillating source. For example, the output shaft may be used to power a water pump. The water pump may be used to transfer water into a water reservoir (e.g. a storage tank at an elevated height to a power generator).
Water may flow from the water reservoir to a power generator (e.g. an electrical generator) preferably at a controlled rate. For example, while the feed rate of water to the storage tank may be variable due to the output power provided by the output shaft, the storage tank may act as a surge vessel whereby a constant flow rate of water may be provided to an electrical generator thereby permitting the electrical generator to operate more efficiently.
Accordingly, in accordance with this invention there is provided an apparatus for extracting energy from reciprocating input motion comprising:
(a) a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis;
(b) a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel;
(c) the input shaft is driving connected to the output shaft by a first transfer shaft and a first gear set, the first gear set including a first one way bearing that drivingly connects the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates clockwise; and, (d) the input shaft is also driving connected to the output shaft by a second transfer shaft and a second gear set, the second gear set including a second one way bearing that drivingly connects the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates counter clockwise.
In any embodiment, the first and second transfer shafts may each have a transfer shaft longitudinal axis and the transfer shaft longitudinal axes may be perpendicular to the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis.
In any embodiment, the first and second one way bearings may be provided on the input shaft. Preferably, the first and second one way bearings are provided at opposed ends of the input shaft.
In any embodiment, the first gear set may further comprise a first input shaft gear mounted to the first one way bearing, a first transfer shaft gear provided on the first transfer shaft and drivenly connected to the first input shaft gear, a second transfer shaft gear provided on the first transfer shaft and drivenly connected to a first output shaft gear drivenly connected to the output shaft.
Preferably, the second gear set further comprises a second input shaft gear mounted to the second one way bearing, a first transfer shaft gear provided on the second transfer shaft and drivenly connected to the second input shaft gear, a second transfer shaft gear provided on the second transfer shaft and drivenly connected to a second output shaft gear drivenly connected to the output shaft.
In any embodiment, the first and second gear sets may comprise bevel gears.
In any embodiment, the first and second transfer shafts may each have a transfer shaft longitudinal axis and the transfer shaft longitudinal axes may be perpendicular to the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis.
In any embodiment, the first and second one way bearings may be provided on the input shaft. Preferably, the first and second one way bearings are provided at opposed ends of the input shaft.
In any embodiment, the first gear set may further comprise a first input shaft gear mounted to the first one way bearing, a first transfer shaft gear provided on the first transfer shaft and drivenly connected to the first input shaft gear, a second transfer shaft gear provided on the first transfer shaft and drivenly connected to a first output shaft gear drivenly connected to the output shaft.
Preferably, the second gear set further comprises a second input shaft gear mounted to the second one way bearing, a first transfer shaft gear provided on the second transfer shaft and drivenly connected to the second input shaft gear, a second transfer shaft gear provided on the second transfer shaft and drivenly connected to a second output shaft gear drivenly connected to the output shaft.
In any embodiment, the first and second gear sets may comprise bevel gears.
In any embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a reciprocating drive member drivingly connected to the input shaft. Preferably, the reciprocating drive member comprises a float.
In any embodiment, the first gear set may have a first gearing ratio and the second gear set may have a second gearing ratio and the second gearing ratio may be different to the first gearing ratio.
In any embodiment, at least one of the first gear set and the second gear set may have a variable gearing ratio. Preferably, each of the first gear set and the second gear set has a variable gearing ratio. Optionally, at least one of the first gear set and the second gear set comprises a continuous variable transmission. Preferably, each of the first gear set and the second gear set comprises a continuous variable transmission.
In any embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a water pump drivenly connected to the output shaft and the water pump may be in fluid communication with a water reservoir and the water reservoir may be in fluid communication with a water powered power output member. Preferably, the water powered power output member comprises a water powered electrical generator.
Accordingly, in accordance with this invention there is provided a method for extracting energy from a reciprocating input motion comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis, a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel, a first transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates clockwise and a second transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates counter clockwise, each transmission comprising a plurality of gears and a transfer shaft;
(b) driving an reciprocating drive member drivingly connected to the input shaft in a first direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a first direction whereupon the first transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in a first direction and the second transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft; and, (c) subsequently driving the reciprocating drive member in a second direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a second direction whereupon the second transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in the first direction and the first transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise driving the input shaft in a first direction at a first rate and driving the output shaft in a first direction at a second rate, and driving the input shaft in a second direction at a third rate and driving the output shaft in the first direction at a fourth rate different to the second rate.
In any embodiment, the first transmission may have a first gearing ratio and the second transmission may have a second gearing ratio and the method may further comprise adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios. Preferably, the method further comprises adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios based on at least one of the velocity and acceleration of the reciprocating input motion.
In any embodiment, the first transmission may have a first gearing ratio and the second transmission may have a second gearing ratio and the method may further comprise utilizing a first gearing ratio based upon a first variable rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft in the clockwise direction and utilizing a second gearing ratio based upon a second variable rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft in the counter clockwise direction.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios during operation based on the rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise using the output shaft to directly produce power.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise using the output shaft to cause water to flow through a water powered power output member.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise using the output shaft to transfer water to a water reservoir and drawing water from the water reservoir to power an electrical generator.
DRAWINGS
It will be more fully understood in accordance with the following description of the preferred embodiments of the invention in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a converter gear assembly in accordance with this invention wherein the input shaft is rotated in a first direction;
Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of the converter gear assembly of Figure 1 wherein the input shaft is driven in the opposite direction but the output shaft is driven in the same direction as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective exploded view of a float having the converter gear assembly of Figure 1 provided therein;
Figure 4 is a schematic view of a power generating apparatus utilizing the converter gear assembly of Figure 1; and, Figure 5 is a schematic drawing of an alternate power generating assembly using the converter gear assembly of Figure 1;
DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
Various apparatuses or methods will be described below to provide an example of each claimed invention. No invention described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover processes or apparatuses that are not described below. The claimed inventions are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus or process described below, or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It is possible that an apparatus of process described below is not an embodiment of any claimed inventions.
As exemplified in Figures 1 and 2, converter gear assembly 10 comprises input shaft 12, output shaft 14 and first and second transfer shafts and 18. As exemplified, input shaft 12 has a longitudinal axis A and output shaft 14 has a longitudinal axis B wherein axis A and B are parallel to each other.
First transfer shaft 16 has a longitudinal axis 16 and second transfer shaft 18 has a longitudinal axis D wherein axis C and D are parallel to each other.
Preferably, as exemplified, transfer shafts 16 and 18 are oriented perpendicular to input and output shafts 12 and 14. Accordingly, axis A and B are perpendicular to axis C
and D.
It will be appreciated that each of the shafts 12, 14, 16 and 18 may be rotatably mounted in a gear box, a frame or other support structure known in the art and may be so supported by any means known in the art. For example, each of the shafts may be rotatably mounted to a bearing, which is provided in the gear box, a frame or the like.
Input shaft 12 is drivingly connected to output shaft 14 by first and second transfer shafts 16, 18 and first and second gear sets 36, 38. Each gear set includes a one way bearing. Accordingly, first and second one way bearings 40, 42 are provided. The gear sets are configured to be selectively drivingly connected to output shaft 14 depending upon the direction of rotation of input shaft 12.
As exemplified in Figures 1 and 2, input shaft 12 may be provided with first and second one way bearings 40 and 42. Bearings 40 and 42 may be provided at any location on shaft 12. Preferably, they are spaced apart. More preferably, as exemplified, input shaft 12 has first and second opposed ends and 22 and first one way bearing 40 is provided on first end 20 and second one way bearing 42 may be provided on second end 22.
For example, if input shaft 12 rotates in a first direction as exemplified in Figure 1, then first one way bearing 40 is configured to drivingly connect first input shaft 12 with first transfer shaft 16. Similarly, second one way bearing 42 is configured so as to allow shaft 12 to freely rotate without being drivingly connected to second transfer shaft 18. First transfer shaft 16 is drivingly connected to output shaft 14 so as to rotate output shaft 14 in a particular direction (e.g. clockwise). Similarly, if input shaft 12 is rotated in the opposite direction, as exemplified in Figure 2, then second one way bearing 42 is configured to drivingly connect input shaft 12 with second transfer shaft 18.
First one way bearing 14 is configured to allow input shaft 12 to freely rotate without being drivingly connected to first transfer shaft 16. Second transfer shaft 18 is drivingly connected to output shaft 14 so as to drive output shaft 14 in the same direction as when output shaft 14 is driven by first transfer shaft 16 (e.g.
clockwise).
Various first and second gear sets 36, 38 may be utilized to selectively drivingly connect input shaft 12 and output shaft 14. As exemplified, first gear set 36 drivingly connects input shaft 12 to output shaft 14 when input shaft 12 rotates clockwise. Second gear set 38 drivingly connects input shaft to output shaft 14 when input shaft 12 rotates counter clockwise.
In any embodiment, the first gear set may have a first gearing ratio and the second gear set may have a second gearing ratio and the second gearing ratio may be different to the first gearing ratio.
In any embodiment, at least one of the first gear set and the second gear set may have a variable gearing ratio. Preferably, each of the first gear set and the second gear set has a variable gearing ratio. Optionally, at least one of the first gear set and the second gear set comprises a continuous variable transmission. Preferably, each of the first gear set and the second gear set comprises a continuous variable transmission.
In any embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise a water pump drivenly connected to the output shaft and the water pump may be in fluid communication with a water reservoir and the water reservoir may be in fluid communication with a water powered power output member. Preferably, the water powered power output member comprises a water powered electrical generator.
Accordingly, in accordance with this invention there is provided a method for extracting energy from a reciprocating input motion comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis, a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel, a first transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates clockwise and a second transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates counter clockwise, each transmission comprising a plurality of gears and a transfer shaft;
(b) driving an reciprocating drive member drivingly connected to the input shaft in a first direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a first direction whereupon the first transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in a first direction and the second transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft; and, (c) subsequently driving the reciprocating drive member in a second direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a second direction whereupon the second transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in the first direction and the first transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise driving the input shaft in a first direction at a first rate and driving the output shaft in a first direction at a second rate, and driving the input shaft in a second direction at a third rate and driving the output shaft in the first direction at a fourth rate different to the second rate.
In any embodiment, the first transmission may have a first gearing ratio and the second transmission may have a second gearing ratio and the method may further comprise adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios. Preferably, the method further comprises adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios based on at least one of the velocity and acceleration of the reciprocating input motion.
In any embodiment, the first transmission may have a first gearing ratio and the second transmission may have a second gearing ratio and the method may further comprise utilizing a first gearing ratio based upon a first variable rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft in the clockwise direction and utilizing a second gearing ratio based upon a second variable rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft in the counter clockwise direction.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios during operation based on the rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise using the output shaft to directly produce power.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise using the output shaft to cause water to flow through a water powered power output member.
In any embodiment, the method may further comprise using the output shaft to transfer water to a water reservoir and drawing water from the water reservoir to power an electrical generator.
DRAWINGS
It will be more fully understood in accordance with the following description of the preferred embodiments of the invention in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a converter gear assembly in accordance with this invention wherein the input shaft is rotated in a first direction;
Figure 2 is a schematic drawing of the converter gear assembly of Figure 1 wherein the input shaft is driven in the opposite direction but the output shaft is driven in the same direction as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective exploded view of a float having the converter gear assembly of Figure 1 provided therein;
Figure 4 is a schematic view of a power generating apparatus utilizing the converter gear assembly of Figure 1; and, Figure 5 is a schematic drawing of an alternate power generating assembly using the converter gear assembly of Figure 1;
DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
Various apparatuses or methods will be described below to provide an example of each claimed invention. No invention described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover processes or apparatuses that are not described below. The claimed inventions are not limited to apparatuses or processes having all of the features of any one apparatus or process described below, or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It is possible that an apparatus of process described below is not an embodiment of any claimed inventions.
As exemplified in Figures 1 and 2, converter gear assembly 10 comprises input shaft 12, output shaft 14 and first and second transfer shafts and 18. As exemplified, input shaft 12 has a longitudinal axis A and output shaft 14 has a longitudinal axis B wherein axis A and B are parallel to each other.
First transfer shaft 16 has a longitudinal axis 16 and second transfer shaft 18 has a longitudinal axis D wherein axis C and D are parallel to each other.
Preferably, as exemplified, transfer shafts 16 and 18 are oriented perpendicular to input and output shafts 12 and 14. Accordingly, axis A and B are perpendicular to axis C
and D.
It will be appreciated that each of the shafts 12, 14, 16 and 18 may be rotatably mounted in a gear box, a frame or other support structure known in the art and may be so supported by any means known in the art. For example, each of the shafts may be rotatably mounted to a bearing, which is provided in the gear box, a frame or the like.
Input shaft 12 is drivingly connected to output shaft 14 by first and second transfer shafts 16, 18 and first and second gear sets 36, 38. Each gear set includes a one way bearing. Accordingly, first and second one way bearings 40, 42 are provided. The gear sets are configured to be selectively drivingly connected to output shaft 14 depending upon the direction of rotation of input shaft 12.
As exemplified in Figures 1 and 2, input shaft 12 may be provided with first and second one way bearings 40 and 42. Bearings 40 and 42 may be provided at any location on shaft 12. Preferably, they are spaced apart. More preferably, as exemplified, input shaft 12 has first and second opposed ends and 22 and first one way bearing 40 is provided on first end 20 and second one way bearing 42 may be provided on second end 22.
For example, if input shaft 12 rotates in a first direction as exemplified in Figure 1, then first one way bearing 40 is configured to drivingly connect first input shaft 12 with first transfer shaft 16. Similarly, second one way bearing 42 is configured so as to allow shaft 12 to freely rotate without being drivingly connected to second transfer shaft 18. First transfer shaft 16 is drivingly connected to output shaft 14 so as to rotate output shaft 14 in a particular direction (e.g. clockwise). Similarly, if input shaft 12 is rotated in the opposite direction, as exemplified in Figure 2, then second one way bearing 42 is configured to drivingly connect input shaft 12 with second transfer shaft 18.
First one way bearing 14 is configured to allow input shaft 12 to freely rotate without being drivingly connected to first transfer shaft 16. Second transfer shaft 18 is drivingly connected to output shaft 14 so as to drive output shaft 14 in the same direction as when output shaft 14 is driven by first transfer shaft 16 (e.g.
clockwise).
Various first and second gear sets 36, 38 may be utilized to selectively drivingly connect input shaft 12 and output shaft 14. As exemplified, first gear set 36 drivingly connects input shaft 12 to output shaft 14 when input shaft 12 rotates clockwise. Second gear set 38 drivingly connects input shaft to output shaft 14 when input shaft 12 rotates counter clockwise.
I
As exemplified in Figures 1 and 2, first gear set 36 comprises first one way bearing 40, first input shaft gear 44, first transfer shaft gear 46, second transfer shaft gear 48 and first output shaft gear 50. Similarly, second gear set 38 comprises second input shaft gear 52, first transfer shaft gear 54, second transfer shaft gear 56 and second output shaft gear 58.
It will be appreciated that each gear may be positioned at any desired location on its respective shaft. First transfer shaft 16 has first and second ends 24, 26. Preferably, the transfer shaft gears are spaced apart on first transfer shaft 16 and, preferably, are spaced apart at opposed ends.
Accordingly, first transfer shaft gear 46 may be located at first end 24 and second transfer shaft gear may be located at second end 26. Second transfer shaft 18 has first and second spaced apart ends 28, 30. As with transfer shaft 16, transfer shaft gears 54, 56 may be located at any desired location and may be provided at the spaced apart ends 28, 30. Finally, output shaft 14 has first and second spaced apart ends 32, 34. First and second output shaft gears 50, 58 may be located at any desired position along output shaft 14 and, preferably, are spaced apart and, more preferably are located at opposed ends 32, 34.
Each gear may be of any particular design. As exemplified herein, each of the gears is exemplified as a bevel gear with teeth that mesh with a mating gear.
In operation, input shaft 20 may be rotated in a clockwise direction.
Due to one way bearings 40 and 42, input shaft may therefore be drivingly connected to first input shaft gear 44. First input shaft gear 44 is drivingly connected to first transfer shaft gear 46. If first input shaft gear 46 is non-rotationally mounted to first transfer shaft 16, then first transfer shaft 16 will rotate. If second transfer shaft gear 48 is non-rotationally mounted to first transfer shaft 16, then second transfer shaft gear 48 will rotate and cause first output shaft gear 50 to rotate. If first output shaft gear 50 is non-rotationally mounted to output shaft 14, then output shaft 14 will rotate. It will be appreciated that second output shaft gear 52 and first and second transfer shaft gears 54, 56 may be non-rotationally mounted to their respective shaft. Similarly, second input shaft gear 52 may be non-rotationally mounted to a part of one way bearing 42.
Accordingly, when shaft 14 rotates due to the rotation of transfer shaft 16, gears 58 and 56 will cause second transfer shaft 18 to rotate. However, due to one way bearing 42, the rotational movement will not be transferred to input shaft 12.
Conversely, as exemplified in Figure 2, when shaft 12 is rotated in the opposite direction, one way gear 42 will cause shaft 12 to be drivingly connected to second transfer shaft 18 via gears 52, 54. Second transfer shaft will be drivingly connected to output shaft 14 via gears 56, 58. Due to the rotation of shaft 14, gears 50 and 48 may cause shaft 16 to rotate. However, due to the configuration of one way bearing 40 (e.g., first input shaft gear 44 may be non-rotationally mounted to a part of one way bearing 40), the rotation of first transfer shaft 16, as transferred through gears 46, 44 will not be delivered to shaft 12.
Accordingly, the rotation of shaft 12 in either direction will result in shaft 14 rotating in the same direction. Accordingly, shaft 14 may be utilized to provide unidirectional output power. Shaft 14 may, for example, be mechanically linked to a turbine, transmission or other member to provide power output or to do work. Alternately, output shaft 14 may be indirectly linked to a power output member, which is discussed further on in this specification.
As will be appreciated, input shaft 12 is drivenly connected to an input power member which reciprocates to provide rotation in alternate directions to input shaft 12. Preferably, the input member is driven by wave motion, however other types of reciprocating motion may be used. For example, referring to Figure 3, converter gear assembly 10 may be mounted in a housing which may comprise a float 60 having lower portion 62 and upper portion 64, which are preferably removably connected to each other so as to provide access to apparatus 10. Preferably, housing 60 is water tight. A notched drive rod 66 may be drivingly connected to input shaft 12. As exemplified, notched drive rod 66 has a notched portion, which comprises a rack 68 and which is drivingly connected to, e.g. first drive gear 70, which is non-rotatably mounted on shaft 72.
First drive gear 70 is drivingly connected to second drive gear 74, which is non-rotationally mounted on input shaft 12. Accordingly, as drive rod 66 moves with respect to first drive gear 70, input shaft 12 will be rotated in one direction or another resulting in output shaft 14 being rotated in a single direction.
It will be appreciated that drive rod 66 may be directly drivingly connected to gear 74 without any intermediary gear or additional intermediary gears may be provided so as to alter the rate of rotation of shaft 12 for the same rate of motion of drive rod 66. Drive rod 66 may be drivingly connected to input shaft 12 by any other linkage known in the mechanical arts and need not be notched.
In accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3, converter gear assembly 10 is mounted in position in float 60. Further, float 60 is preferably sealed. Float 60 is preferably movably mounted so as to travel upwardly or downwardly based upon the motion of waves 76. For example, as exemplified in Figures 3 and 4, float 60 may be provided with one or more sleeves which are slidably mounted on polls 80. Polls 80 are preferably mounted in a fixed position (e.g. they may be mounted to the bed of a body of water). Accordingly, as wave 76 travel past float 60, float 60 may move upwardly or downwardly along polls 80. Preferably, drive rod 66 is also mounted at a fixed vertical position (e.g. and may also be mounted to the bed of the body of water). Accordingly, as float 60 moves up, the relative movement of rack 68 and first drive gear 70 will cause the upward or downward motion of float 60 to induce rotation of input shaft 12 and, accordingly, cause output shaft 14 to rotate.
It will be appreciated that, in an alternate embodiment, as exemplified in Figure 5, converter gear assembly 10 may be mounted in a fixed position (e.g. the gear box which may be mounted to a bridge or other fixed surface). In such a case, drive rod 66 is mounted to float 60 and, preferably, fixedly mounted thereto at a set relative height with respect to float 60.
Accordingly, as float 60 moves upwardly or downwardly, rack 68 will drive gear 70.
In any embodiment, each of first and second gear sets 36, 38 may use the same gearing ratio. Alternately, they may use differing gear ratios.
Further, one or both of the gear sets may use a variable gearing ratio. In particular, one or both of the gear sets may be a continuous variable transmission.
Referring to the embodiment of Figure 3, the wave motion will push float 60 upwardly. After a wave passes, the float will fall downwardly under the influence of gravity. However, the downward movement will, to some degree, be resisted by the wave as the wave travels past the float. Essentially, some of the downward acceleration of the float is resisted by the water. By adjusting the gear ratio of the appropriate gear set, full downward acceleration of the float, including that portion which is resisted by the wave, may be utilized to drive the input shaft thereby obtaining the same amount of power as if the float fell free fall the same distance. Conversely, when the float travels upwardly due to a wave, less resistance will be encountered which will permit the utilization of a different gearing ratio.
Output shaft 14 may be directly or indirectly connected to a power output member. For example, output shaft 14 may be utilized to drive a mechanical member or a generator. As exemplified in Figure 5, output shaft is drivingly connected to output gear 82, which is drivingly connected to a generator 84 by drive shaft 86. The output of electrical generator 84 may be immediately used, transferred to a grid or stored in a battery 88 by means of wires 90. It will be appreciated that, in an alternate embodiment, output shaft may be used to provide mechanical power without converting the rotation of the shaft to electricity. This particular design is preferred when converter gear assembly 10 is stationary.
As exemplified in Figures 1 and 2, first gear set 36 comprises first one way bearing 40, first input shaft gear 44, first transfer shaft gear 46, second transfer shaft gear 48 and first output shaft gear 50. Similarly, second gear set 38 comprises second input shaft gear 52, first transfer shaft gear 54, second transfer shaft gear 56 and second output shaft gear 58.
It will be appreciated that each gear may be positioned at any desired location on its respective shaft. First transfer shaft 16 has first and second ends 24, 26. Preferably, the transfer shaft gears are spaced apart on first transfer shaft 16 and, preferably, are spaced apart at opposed ends.
Accordingly, first transfer shaft gear 46 may be located at first end 24 and second transfer shaft gear may be located at second end 26. Second transfer shaft 18 has first and second spaced apart ends 28, 30. As with transfer shaft 16, transfer shaft gears 54, 56 may be located at any desired location and may be provided at the spaced apart ends 28, 30. Finally, output shaft 14 has first and second spaced apart ends 32, 34. First and second output shaft gears 50, 58 may be located at any desired position along output shaft 14 and, preferably, are spaced apart and, more preferably are located at opposed ends 32, 34.
Each gear may be of any particular design. As exemplified herein, each of the gears is exemplified as a bevel gear with teeth that mesh with a mating gear.
In operation, input shaft 20 may be rotated in a clockwise direction.
Due to one way bearings 40 and 42, input shaft may therefore be drivingly connected to first input shaft gear 44. First input shaft gear 44 is drivingly connected to first transfer shaft gear 46. If first input shaft gear 46 is non-rotationally mounted to first transfer shaft 16, then first transfer shaft 16 will rotate. If second transfer shaft gear 48 is non-rotationally mounted to first transfer shaft 16, then second transfer shaft gear 48 will rotate and cause first output shaft gear 50 to rotate. If first output shaft gear 50 is non-rotationally mounted to output shaft 14, then output shaft 14 will rotate. It will be appreciated that second output shaft gear 52 and first and second transfer shaft gears 54, 56 may be non-rotationally mounted to their respective shaft. Similarly, second input shaft gear 52 may be non-rotationally mounted to a part of one way bearing 42.
Accordingly, when shaft 14 rotates due to the rotation of transfer shaft 16, gears 58 and 56 will cause second transfer shaft 18 to rotate. However, due to one way bearing 42, the rotational movement will not be transferred to input shaft 12.
Conversely, as exemplified in Figure 2, when shaft 12 is rotated in the opposite direction, one way gear 42 will cause shaft 12 to be drivingly connected to second transfer shaft 18 via gears 52, 54. Second transfer shaft will be drivingly connected to output shaft 14 via gears 56, 58. Due to the rotation of shaft 14, gears 50 and 48 may cause shaft 16 to rotate. However, due to the configuration of one way bearing 40 (e.g., first input shaft gear 44 may be non-rotationally mounted to a part of one way bearing 40), the rotation of first transfer shaft 16, as transferred through gears 46, 44 will not be delivered to shaft 12.
Accordingly, the rotation of shaft 12 in either direction will result in shaft 14 rotating in the same direction. Accordingly, shaft 14 may be utilized to provide unidirectional output power. Shaft 14 may, for example, be mechanically linked to a turbine, transmission or other member to provide power output or to do work. Alternately, output shaft 14 may be indirectly linked to a power output member, which is discussed further on in this specification.
As will be appreciated, input shaft 12 is drivenly connected to an input power member which reciprocates to provide rotation in alternate directions to input shaft 12. Preferably, the input member is driven by wave motion, however other types of reciprocating motion may be used. For example, referring to Figure 3, converter gear assembly 10 may be mounted in a housing which may comprise a float 60 having lower portion 62 and upper portion 64, which are preferably removably connected to each other so as to provide access to apparatus 10. Preferably, housing 60 is water tight. A notched drive rod 66 may be drivingly connected to input shaft 12. As exemplified, notched drive rod 66 has a notched portion, which comprises a rack 68 and which is drivingly connected to, e.g. first drive gear 70, which is non-rotatably mounted on shaft 72.
First drive gear 70 is drivingly connected to second drive gear 74, which is non-rotationally mounted on input shaft 12. Accordingly, as drive rod 66 moves with respect to first drive gear 70, input shaft 12 will be rotated in one direction or another resulting in output shaft 14 being rotated in a single direction.
It will be appreciated that drive rod 66 may be directly drivingly connected to gear 74 without any intermediary gear or additional intermediary gears may be provided so as to alter the rate of rotation of shaft 12 for the same rate of motion of drive rod 66. Drive rod 66 may be drivingly connected to input shaft 12 by any other linkage known in the mechanical arts and need not be notched.
In accordance with the embodiment of Figure 3, converter gear assembly 10 is mounted in position in float 60. Further, float 60 is preferably sealed. Float 60 is preferably movably mounted so as to travel upwardly or downwardly based upon the motion of waves 76. For example, as exemplified in Figures 3 and 4, float 60 may be provided with one or more sleeves which are slidably mounted on polls 80. Polls 80 are preferably mounted in a fixed position (e.g. they may be mounted to the bed of a body of water). Accordingly, as wave 76 travel past float 60, float 60 may move upwardly or downwardly along polls 80. Preferably, drive rod 66 is also mounted at a fixed vertical position (e.g. and may also be mounted to the bed of the body of water). Accordingly, as float 60 moves up, the relative movement of rack 68 and first drive gear 70 will cause the upward or downward motion of float 60 to induce rotation of input shaft 12 and, accordingly, cause output shaft 14 to rotate.
It will be appreciated that, in an alternate embodiment, as exemplified in Figure 5, converter gear assembly 10 may be mounted in a fixed position (e.g. the gear box which may be mounted to a bridge or other fixed surface). In such a case, drive rod 66 is mounted to float 60 and, preferably, fixedly mounted thereto at a set relative height with respect to float 60.
Accordingly, as float 60 moves upwardly or downwardly, rack 68 will drive gear 70.
In any embodiment, each of first and second gear sets 36, 38 may use the same gearing ratio. Alternately, they may use differing gear ratios.
Further, one or both of the gear sets may use a variable gearing ratio. In particular, one or both of the gear sets may be a continuous variable transmission.
Referring to the embodiment of Figure 3, the wave motion will push float 60 upwardly. After a wave passes, the float will fall downwardly under the influence of gravity. However, the downward movement will, to some degree, be resisted by the wave as the wave travels past the float. Essentially, some of the downward acceleration of the float is resisted by the water. By adjusting the gear ratio of the appropriate gear set, full downward acceleration of the float, including that portion which is resisted by the wave, may be utilized to drive the input shaft thereby obtaining the same amount of power as if the float fell free fall the same distance. Conversely, when the float travels upwardly due to a wave, less resistance will be encountered which will permit the utilization of a different gearing ratio.
Output shaft 14 may be directly or indirectly connected to a power output member. For example, output shaft 14 may be utilized to drive a mechanical member or a generator. As exemplified in Figure 5, output shaft is drivingly connected to output gear 82, which is drivingly connected to a generator 84 by drive shaft 86. The output of electrical generator 84 may be immediately used, transferred to a grid or stored in a battery 88 by means of wires 90. It will be appreciated that, in an alternate embodiment, output shaft may be used to provide mechanical power without converting the rotation of the shaft to electricity. This particular design is preferred when converter gear assembly 10 is stationary.
Alternately, converter gear assembly 10 may be indirectly connected to a generator 84. This particular embodiment is preferred when converter gear assembly 10 is not stationary (e.g., it is mounted in a moving platform such as float 60). Referring to Figures 3 and 4, output shaft 14 may be provided with an output gear 32 which may be drivingly connected to a water pump gear 92, which is drivingly connected to a water pump 94 by a drive shaft 96. Accordingly, when output shaft 14 rotates, water pump 94 may be driven to pump water through conduit 98 into a suitable storage tank or reservoir 100.
As exemplified, the water in which float 60 sits may be pumped into tank 100. It will be appreciated that conduit 98 is preferably flexible. The water in tank 100 may be released through an outlet into a passage so as to drive a water turbine or like member. The water turbine is preferably drivingly connected to electrical generator 84 by drive shaft 106. In an alternate embodiment, drive shaft 106 may be mechanically linked to provide mechanical power to a member to do work.
It will be appreciated that the rate of power output by output shaft 14 may vary depending upon the size and rate of travel of wave 76 (i.e., output shaft 14 will typically not rotate at a constant speed). Accordingly, the power provided by output shaft 14 may vary from time to time. By pumping water into tank 100, water turbine 104 may be provided with a constant or generally constant supply of water to drive water turbine 104. For example, the outlet of tank 100 may be provided with a variable gate which may be utilized to adjust the rate of water flow through passage 102 so as to gradually adjust the amount of water passing through passage 102 to account for surges or shortages of water in tank 100. Overall, storage tank 100 is preferably sized so as to ensure a generally constant supply of water to water turbine 104 as would be anticipated due to the characteristics of the waves 76 in the location where float 60 is provided.
It will be appreciated that the converter gear assembly may be utilized by itself or in combination with a power generation system as disclosed herein. In addition, the power generation system disclosed herein may be utilized using any converter gear assembly known in the art. It will also be appreciated that any of the features disclosed herein may be used by themselves, or with any other feature.
What has been described above has been intended illustrative and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variances and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined in the claims appended hereto.
As exemplified, the water in which float 60 sits may be pumped into tank 100. It will be appreciated that conduit 98 is preferably flexible. The water in tank 100 may be released through an outlet into a passage so as to drive a water turbine or like member. The water turbine is preferably drivingly connected to electrical generator 84 by drive shaft 106. In an alternate embodiment, drive shaft 106 may be mechanically linked to provide mechanical power to a member to do work.
It will be appreciated that the rate of power output by output shaft 14 may vary depending upon the size and rate of travel of wave 76 (i.e., output shaft 14 will typically not rotate at a constant speed). Accordingly, the power provided by output shaft 14 may vary from time to time. By pumping water into tank 100, water turbine 104 may be provided with a constant or generally constant supply of water to drive water turbine 104. For example, the outlet of tank 100 may be provided with a variable gate which may be utilized to adjust the rate of water flow through passage 102 so as to gradually adjust the amount of water passing through passage 102 to account for surges or shortages of water in tank 100. Overall, storage tank 100 is preferably sized so as to ensure a generally constant supply of water to water turbine 104 as would be anticipated due to the characteristics of the waves 76 in the location where float 60 is provided.
It will be appreciated that the converter gear assembly may be utilized by itself or in combination with a power generation system as disclosed herein. In addition, the power generation system disclosed herein may be utilized using any converter gear assembly known in the art. It will also be appreciated that any of the features disclosed herein may be used by themselves, or with any other feature.
What has been described above has been intended illustrative and non-limiting and it will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other variances and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as defined in the claims appended hereto.
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Claims (25)
1. An apparatus for extracting energy from reciprocating input motion comprising:
a) a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis;
b) a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel;
c) the input shaft is driving connected to the output shaft by a first transfer shaft and a first gear set, the first gear set including a first one way bearing that drivingly connects the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates clockwise; and, d) the input shaft is also driving connected to the output shaft by a second transfer shaft and a second gear set, the second gear set including a second one way bearing that drivingly connects the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates counter clockwise.
a) a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis;
b) a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel;
c) the input shaft is driving connected to the output shaft by a first transfer shaft and a first gear set, the first gear set including a first one way bearing that drivingly connects the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates clockwise; and, d) the input shaft is also driving connected to the output shaft by a second transfer shaft and a second gear set, the second gear set including a second one way bearing that drivingly connects the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates counter clockwise.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first and second transfer shafts each have a transfer shaft longitudinal axis and the transfer shaft longitudinal axes are perpendicular to the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis.
3. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-2 wherein the first and second one way bearings are provided on the input shaft.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein the first and second one way bearings are provided at opposed ends of the input shaft.
5. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-4 wherein the first gear set further comprises a first input shaft gear mounted to the first one way bearing, a first transfer shaft gear provided on the first transfer shaft and drivenly connected to the first input shaft gear, a second transfer shaft gear provided on the first transfer shaft and drivenly connected to a first output shaft gear drivenly connected to the output shaft.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein the second gear set further comprises a second input shaft gear mounted to the second one way bearing, a first transfer shaft gear provided on the second transfer shaft and drivenly connected to the second input shaft gear, a second transfer shaft gear provided on the second transfer shaft and drivenly connected to a second output shaft gear drivenly connected to the output shaft.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein the first and second gear sets comprise bevel gears.
8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-7 further comprising a reciprocating drive member drivingly connected to the input shaft.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein the reciprocating drive member comprises a float.
10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-9 wherein the first gear set has a first gearing ratio and the second gear set has a second gearing ratio and the second gearing ratio is different to the first gearing ratio.
11. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-9 wherein at least one of the first gear set and the second gear set has a variable gearing ratio.
12. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein each of the first gear set and the second gear set has a variable gearing ratio.
13. The apparatus of any one of claims 11-12 wherein at least one of the first gear set and the second gear set comprises a continuous variable transmission.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein each of the first gear set and the second gear set comprises a continuous variable transmission.
15. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-14 further comprising a water pump drivenly connected to the output shaft and the water pump is in fluid communication with a water reservoir and the water reservoir is in fluid communication with a water powered power output member.
16. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the water powered power output member comprises a water powered electrical generator.
17. A method for extracting energy from a reciprocating input motion comprising the steps of:
a) providing a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis, a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel, a first transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates clockwise and a second transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates counter clockwise, each transmission comprising a plurality of gears and a transfer shaft;
b) driving an reciprocating drive member drivingly connected to the input shaft in a first direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a first direction whereupon the first transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in a first direction and the second transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft; and, c) subsequently driving the reciprocating drive member in a second direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a second direction whereupon the second transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in the first direction and the first transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft.
a) providing a rotatably mounted input shaft having an input shaft longitudinal axis, a rotatably mounted output shaft having an output shaft longitudinal axis wherein the input shaft longitudinal axis and the output shaft longitudinal axis are parallel, a first transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates clockwise and a second transmission drivingly connecting the input shaft to the output shaft when the input shaft rotates counter clockwise, each transmission comprising a plurality of gears and a transfer shaft;
b) driving an reciprocating drive member drivingly connected to the input shaft in a first direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a first direction whereupon the first transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in a first direction and the second transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft; and, c) subsequently driving the reciprocating drive member in a second direction and causing the input shaft to rotate in a second direction whereupon the second transmission causes the output shaft to rotate in the first direction and the first transmission is disengaged from driving engagement of the output shaft.
18. The method of claim 17 further comprising driving the input shaft in a first direction at a first rate and driving the output shaft in a first direction at a second rate, and driving the input shaft in a second direction at a third rate and driving the output shaft in the first direction at a fourth rate different to the second rate.
19. The method of any one of claims 17-18 wherein the first transmission has a first gearing ratio and the second transmission has a second gearing ratio and the method further comprises adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios.
20. The method of claim 19 further comprising adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios based on at least one of the velocity and acceleration of the reciprocating input motion.
21. The method of any one of claims 17-18 wherein the first transmission has a first gearing ratio and the second transmission has a second gearing ratio and the method further comprises utilizing a first gearing ratio based upon a first variable rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft in the clockwise direction and utilizing a second gearing ratio based upon a second variable rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft in the counter clockwise direction.
22. The method of claim 21 further comprising adjusting at least one of the gearing ratios during operation based on the rotational velocity and/or rotational acceleration of the input shaft.
23. The method of any one of claims 17-22 further comprising using the output shaft to directly produce power.
24. The method of any one of claims 17-22 further comprising using the output shaft to cause water to flow through a water powered power output member.
25. The method of claim 24 further comprising using the output shaft to transfer water to a water reservoir and drawing water from the water reservoir to power an electrical generator.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2692665A CA2692665A1 (en) | 2010-02-11 | 2010-02-11 | Converter gear assembly and a water powered generator utilizing same |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2692665A CA2692665A1 (en) | 2010-02-11 | 2010-02-11 | Converter gear assembly and a water powered generator utilizing same |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2692665A1 true CA2692665A1 (en) | 2011-08-11 |
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2692665A Abandoned CA2692665A1 (en) | 2010-02-11 | 2010-02-11 | Converter gear assembly and a water powered generator utilizing same |
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| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2692665A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN109099013A (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2018-12-28 | 苏州格力士实业有限公司 | Efficient vibration isolation type blower |
-
2010
- 2010-02-11 CA CA2692665A patent/CA2692665A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN109099013A (en) * | 2018-11-05 | 2018-12-28 | 苏州格力士实业有限公司 | Efficient vibration isolation type blower |
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Effective date: 20130411 |