Tidal energy system with compressible vessel and open circulation

摘要

An Open Circulation Tidal Energy Cell (OCTEC) comprises a sealed compressible vessel 3 formed by two plates of a flexible material that recovers its shape after compression, one inverted on the other and joined together. The vessel is located at depth in tidal waters and communicates with the atmosphere above water level 4 by at least one pipe 2. During lower tides air is inhaled from the atmosphere and during higher tides air is exhaled either back into the atmosphere, fig.3, or underwater, fig.4, driving one or more turbines 5 in each direction. The flow of air is regulated by valve(s) 6. OCTEC systems may generate electrical power, store energy and compress air for oxygenation of waters. An Inter Tidal Energy Reservoir and Generator (ITERG) sub-system may be integrated to provide pumped storage during slack demand and additional power through turbines from rising tide and gravity-fed discharge at low tide, enhancing amount and regularity of useful output. OCTECs may be arranged in 'tidal stacks' on columns or cables arising from the seabed to maximise power density and reduce environmental impact and costs of power supply.