U.S. patent application number 10/543666 was filed with the patent office on 2006-07-06 for apparatus for converting kinetic energy.
Invention is credited to Alexander Peter Hughes, Annika Marianne Hughes, Peter Neville Hughes, Rebecca Anna Hughes.
Application Number | 20060147263 10/543666 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 9951943 |
Filed Date | 2006-07-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060147263 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hughes; Peter Neville ; et
al. |
July 6, 2006 |
Apparatus for converting kinetic energy
Abstract
Apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power
comprising a frame (230) arranged to be fixed in a vehicle running
track (240), a plate (250), (252) and (254) moveably mounted to the
frame. Power transmitting means (260) is coupled both to the plate
and a power generator. The plate is arranged to act on the power
transmitting means to cause power to be generated. The track and
plate are so disposed as to cause at least a part (221) of a
vehicle (220) moving on the track to drop onto the plate.
Inventors: |
Hughes; Peter Neville;
(London, GB) ; Hughes; Annika Marianne; (London,
GB) ; Hughes; Rebecca Anna; (London, GB) ;
Hughes; Alexander Peter; (London, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
John A Yirga;Watts Hoffmann Company
PO Box 99839
Cleveland
OH
44199-0839
US
|
Family ID: |
9951943 |
Appl. No.: |
10/543666 |
Filed: |
January 28, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
January 28, 2004 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB04/00364 |
371 Date: |
July 27, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
404/71 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F03G 7/08 20130101; E01F
13/123 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
404/071 |
International
Class: |
E01C 7/00 20060101
E01C007/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jan 28, 2003 |
GB |
0301920.5 |
Claims
1-9. (canceled)
10. Apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power
comprising a frame arranged to be fixed in a vehicle running track,
a plate moveably mounted to the frame and power converter coupled
both to the plate and a power generator, the plate being arranged
to act on the power converter to cause power to be generated, and
characterized in that the track and plate are so disposed as to
cause at least a part of a vehicle moving on the track to drop onto
the plate.
11. Apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein the plate is disposed
at a level below the track level.
12. Apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein there is provided a
raised portion of the track immediately in front of the plate.
13. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 wherein there is provided a
raised portion of the track immediately in front of the plate.
14. Apparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein the plate is pivotally
mounted.
15. Apparatus as claimed in claim 14 wherein the plate is pivotally
mounted between two ends in a running direction.
16. Apparatus as claimed in claim 14 wherein the plate is coupled
to said converter, whereby the plate drives said generator in its
at least downward stroke and recovery stroke.
17. Apparatus as claimed in claim 16 wherein said generator is
driven by a spragging clutch in both the downward stroke and said
recovery stroke.
18. Apparatus as claimed in claim 16 wherein said generator is
driven by a double acting cylinder arrangement in both the downward
stroke and said recovery stroke.
19. Apparatus as claimed in claim 11 wherein the plate is pivotally
mounted.
20. Apparatus as claimed in claim 19 wherein the plate is pivotally
mounted between two ends in a running direction.
21. Apparatus as claimed in claim 19 wherein the plate is coupled
to said converter, whereby the plate drives said generator in its
at least downward stroke and recovery stroke.
22. Apparatus as claimed in claim 21 wherein said generator is
driven by a spragging clutch in both the downward stroke and said
recovery stroke.
23. Apparatus as claimed in claim 21 wherein said generator is
driven by a double acting cylinder arrangement in both the downward
stroke and said recovery stroke.
24. Apparatus as claimed in claim 12 wherein the plate is pivotally
mounted.
25. Apparatus as claimed in claim 24 wherein the plate is pivotally
mounted between two ends in a running direction.
26. Apparatus as claimed in claim 24 wherein the plate is coupled
to said converter whereby the plate drives said generator in its at
least downward stroke and recovery stroke.
27. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26 wherein said generator is
driven by a spragging clutch in both the downward stroke and said
recovery stroke.
28. Apparatus as claimed in claim 26 wherein said generator is
driven by a double acting cylinder arrangement in both the downward
stroke and said recovery stroke.
29. A method of converting kinetic energy into useable power
comprising a frame arranged to be fixed in a vehicle running track,
a plate moveably mounted to the frame and power converter coupled
both to the plate and a power generator, the plate being arranged
to act on the power converter to cause power to be generated, and
wherein the track and plate are so disposed as to cause at least a
part of a vehicle moving on the track to drop onto the plate.
30. An apparatus for converting kinetic energy to useable power
comprising: (a) a frame fixedly attached to a road; (b) a surface
assembly having at least two plates, each plate comprising a first
and second end, wherein said plates are pivotally connected at said
first end about a central portion of said surface assembly and each
plate is pivotally connected to the frame at said second end about
an outer portion of said surface assembly; and (c) a power
converter moveably connected to the central portion of said surface
assembly, wherein said power converter is coupled to a power
generator; (d) whereby a force imposed on said central portion of
said surface assembly drives said power generator through said
power converter.
31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein said power converter is a
double acting cylinder.
32. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein said power converter is a
spragging clutch.
33. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein said power converter is a
gear assembly.
34. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein said power converter is a
cam mechanism.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to apparatus for converting
kinetic energy from passing vehicles into useable power.
[0002] It is well known that a construction known as a "sleeping
policeman" or speed ramp generally comprising a raised area
transverse to the alignment of the road is widely utilized or the
purpose of slowing vehicular traffic down. As the vehicle crosses
the "sleeping policeman" speed ramp resulting in the vehicle being
forced to slow down also resulting in an impact being exerted on
the vehicle which is generally absorbed by the suspension.
[0003] Since these traffic devices are often associated with
built-up areas it will be readily understood that save for the
slowing down of traffic which it is claimed results in a reduction
in accidents there is no other apparent benefit. Conversely
vehicles approaching these speed ramps compel the driver to brake
and therefore reduce engine speed and following passing over the
ramp to accelerate causing an increase in pollution.
[0004] In the alternative traffic calming devices as they are
presently known comprise a chicane and/or width restrictors. When
designs of this type are examined it will be readily appreciated
that the vehicle has to follow a snake like path through them
frequently changing trajectory resulting in a destabilizing of the
vehicle. This will be particularly apparent on wet or icy road
surfaces. At the time of making this patent application these
chicane traffic calming devices are relatively new and for the most
part have not experienced winter conditions.
[0005] In both the traffic calming processes previously described
it will most certainly result in greater environmental pollution
being generated. It may well in the fullness of time transpire that
the increased pollution created by these sleeping policemen/speed
ramps and chicanes may cause more fatalities and illness than the
speeding vehicles if the speed ramps or chicanes were not
present.
[0006] According to the present invention, there is provided
apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power
comprising a frame arranged to be fixed in a vehicle running track,
a plate moveably mounted to the frame and power transmitting means
coupled both to the plate and a power generator, the plate being
arranged to act on the power transmitting means to cause power to
be generated, and wherein the track and plate are so disposed as to
cause at least a part of a vehicle moving on the track to drop onto
the plate.
[0007] Means for causing the vehicle to drop may be the provision
of a raised portion of the track immediately in front of the plate,
or alternatively the plate being mounted below the level of the
track.
[0008] The relative disposition of track and plate according to the
invention is such that additional kinetic energy is transmitted to
the generator as distinct from known arrangements where a moving
vehicle moves onto a plate at substantially the same level as the
surrounding running track.
[0009] A benefit of imparting a vertical movement to a part of the
vehicle prior to it crossing the plate is that the efficiency of
the apparatus is enhanced.
[0010] Examples of a running track include amongst others, a
roadway or a driveway or a pathway. Such running tracks may be used
for traffic flowing in one direction only on a single track or a
multi-track carriageway, or may be used for two-way traffic, such
as a single track road or path in a rural location.
[0011] Preferably a raised portion of the running track may be in
the form of a hump or a ramp.
[0012] Preferably in an alternative embodiment a depression is
combined with a such hump.
[0013] Further, the position in respect of the plate may be
structured such as to cause a maximum drop or descend onto the
plate for a given vehicle approach speed or range of vehicle
approach speeds.
[0014] Preferably means is provided in close proximity to the plate
so as to cause at least a part of a vehicle that is about to cross
the plate to rise immediately in front of the plate, causing in
part a reaction on the suspension of the vehicle.
[0015] Preferably the plate is disposed at a level below the track
level.
[0016] Preferably the apparatus further comprises a raised portion
of the track immediately in front of the plate.
[0017] Preferably in an alternative embodiment, the plate is
mounted above the level of an existing track level. More preferably
in the alternative embodiment, a rising portion of track is
provided to raise an approaching vehicle to the level of the plate,
before the vehicle passes over the raised portion of the track
immediately in front of the plate.
[0018] Preferably the plate is pivotally mounted.
[0019] More preferably the plate is pivotally mounted between the
two ends in the running direction.
[0020] Preferably the plate is coupled to the transmitting means by
means of an arrangement whereby the plate drives the generator in
its at least downward stroke and/or recovery stroke.
[0021] Preferably the means for driving the generator with both
strokes comprises a spragging clutch.
[0022] Preferably the means for driving the generator with both
strokes comprises a double acting cylinder arrangement.
[0023] Preferably the hump comprises at least one fixed raised hump
or depressed hump in or on the road surface since the vehicles
suspension preferably requires to be compressed in order to deliver
the most efficient impact to the moveable plate or plates
hereinafter described.
[0024] A further benefit of the invention is to provide a suitable
convenient alternative to a `traffic calming` arrangement, such as
the sleeping policeman and the chicane while providing a
substantial benefit to the environment and utilizing energy that
would otherwise be lost.
[0025] Such an embodiment arranged for traffic calming would
preferably include multiple humps on the track over which a vehicle
approaches the ramp. More preferably, the humps would be of
increasing size, and would be arranged to ensure that a majority of
vehicles would be likely to approach the ramp at an optimum speed
for obtaining power and for the comfort of vehicle occupants.
[0026] Preferably the movable plate comprises a movable element
that is an aluminium plate or plates, steel or other suitable
material plate which is hinged either in the middle or one end.
[0027] Preferably the plate incorporates a counter balance weight
or mechanism. referably the entire plate or plates described are
covered by an elastomeric membrane (a rubber or other suitable
material mat).
[0028] The said plate or plates has placed under it a mechanism
that by way of example would comprise a rack and pinion gear. A
vehicle passing over the said plate or plates will exert forces
both gravitational impact and all other energy components related
to the forward and rolling motion and momentum and gravitational
forces of the said vehicles thereby imparting the energy through
the plate or plates to the rack and pinion or other mechanism which
in turn drives, for example, a rotary or reciprocating hydraulic or
pneumatic pump which is in turn preferably connected to an
accumulator or storage vessel for storing hydraulic pressure or air
resulting from the pump having been rotated. This in turn is
preferably connected to a further pump.
[0029] The pressure referred to is delivered from the accumulator
to the pump preferably by a valve system which may deliver on
demand or by any predetermined order that is designed into the said
system The second pump referred to may be so arranged to drive an
electrical generator. Any suitable number of pumps and/or
accumulators or storage vessels may be employed in the invention
referred to and any number of plates may be interconnected.
[0030] The generator may be kept rotating or may be allowed to come
to rest except when required to deliver electrical energy. In one
further convenient embodiment it is proposed to utilise within this
development a generator with movable magnets in order to allow
minimal inertia to be inherent within the system It will be readily
understood that the energy imparted by vehicular traffic over the
plate or plates will vary in frequency from a number per second to
a number per hour or in some instances for example during the night
to none for some hours and back to a number per second
[0031] The hydraulic accumulators or storage vessels which may
equally be pneumatic or any other suitable storage medium are
preferably designed to hold their pressure for substantial periods.
However in one further convenient embodiment of this invention it
is proposed to incorporate the facility whereby the minimal amount
of inertia is present and in order to do so it is proposed that for
the most part the hydraulic or pneumatic medium used to transmit
the energy to the generator shall be constantly flowing since oil
or the like medium has its own inertia as does a generator or pump
that has come to rest.
[0032] It is therefore proposed that in incorporating magnets that
remove the field from the generator, its resistance to rotation
will be substantially minimized. Equally so the hydraulic pump or
pumps or pneumatic pump or pumps may be by way of example of a vane
type pump whereby the vanes are capable of feathering to bring
about the minimal resistance to rotation. Therefore the whole
mechanism described herein will be capable of being kept energized
or in motion by the residual pressure in the
accumulator/accumulators described thereby resulting in the ability
of the invention described to deliver energy within a minimum time
frame.
[0033] In yet a further alternative and convenient embodiment the
plate or plates may incorporate in the place of or in addition to
the hydraulic or pneumatic system described above a single or
series of fly wheels which may be so coupled to the plate or plates
as to accelerate as a result of each vehicle passing over the plate
or plates and deliver from the said fly wheel energy either to a
suitable gear mechanism or to drive the previously described
hydraulic or pneumatic systems or any such other convenient
arrangement to utilise the energy collected via the plate or
plates. Some of the objects of the invention described herein are
referred to hereafter.
[0034] By way of example it is proposed to provide a means of
powering street lighting systems without the necessity to draw
power from conventional sources of supply for example the National
Grid. In another example the apparatus may be used to supply power
to the national grid.
[0035] Whilst it is practical for the power plate invention
described herein to work effectively either on level, upward or
downward gradients, it will be apparent that it is preferably for
the plates to be located in sites that are downward gradients
thereby utilizing the gravitational forces substantially reducing
the effect of the loss of power from the vehicle.
[0036] It will also be readily understood that in these
circumstances since the plate is being depressed by the vehicle
from the moment the vehicle enters the edge of the plate it should
render it unnecessary for any breaking to be required but can still
act in a dual capacity of power generation plate and/or speed
restricted. It will also be readily understood that power generated
by the said plate or plates may also be utilized to light traffic
signs in remote areas where it is uneconomical at the present time
to feed the light sources from more conventional power supplies by
way of example a hair-pin bend in a remote rural area or utilized
for powering temporary or permanent traffic lights.
[0037] Yet a further application may be provided whereby a pump is
driven to remove the surface water that has gathered and expel it
into the drainage system or onto the adjacent land. In the
alternative, the pump may be used to purge the drainage system. A
further convenient embodiment of the invention is to provide a
means for recharging battery powered motor cars whereby the
generator provides an electricity supply from any suitable pick up
point it will be readily understood that the plate will be
activated by the vehicle passing over it on a preferably downward
incline such incline may be slight or of any suitable gradient in
such circumstances gravity will form the major influence upon the
passage the vehicle.
[0038] The apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable
power described herein may also serve a dual purpose in providing
traffic calming or speed restricting in addition to its other
described functions.
[0039] Preferably the apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power also comprises a frame mountable in a running track
such as a road or other suitable location, a plate mounted to the
frame in such a manner as to allow the plate to move up and down
about an axis of a hinge fixed adjacent to or at the leading or
trailing edges or at any such other position as shall be suitable
to allow upward and downward motions of the plate to be
achieved.
[0040] Preferably when mounted in a road at least a portion of the
plate is above the level of the road surface.
[0041] More preferably a portion of the plate is inclined above the
road level.
[0042] Preferably the plate having a upward protrusion above the
road level but which by virtue of its design will be level if it is
required that the apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power using the plate is to be taken out of use for example
in the event of mechanical failure or in such circumstances that
weather conditions render its use impractical.
[0043] A link from the plate to a power accumulator and an
electrical generator preferably driveable from an accumulator or
accumulators or other storage vessels. Alternatively the link may
be arranged to drive a pump or pumps or fan or fans or other
mechanisms.
[0044] The accumulator or accumulators may be mechanical in the
form of a flywheel or an hydraulic or pneumatic accumulators or an
air receiver or receivers. In yet a further convenient embodiment
of this invention it is proposed that a number of plates are
inter-linked either hydraulically pneumatically or electrically and
may act in unison or sequentially or spasmodically.
[0045] The plate or plates are preferably pivotally mounted to the
frame at its edge, or any suitable point.
[0046] The plate may be segmented at more than one point to form a
ramp arranged for a vehicle's wheels to pass over before the
vehicle's wheels run onto a further section of the plate. More
preferably one or more of the segmented sections of the plate may
be linked by a hinge or other convenient means of linking.
[0047] In an alternative embodiment, the segmented sections are not
linked.
[0048] The plate may be centrally pivoted or pivoted at any
suitable point such as at one end.
[0049] Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described
by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0050] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a first embodiment
of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power
according to the invention;
[0051] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a second
embodiment of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention;
[0052] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a third embodiment
of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power
according to the invention;
[0053] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a fourth
embodiment of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention;
[0054] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a fifth embodiment
of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power
according to the invention;
[0055] FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a sixth embodiment
of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power
according to the invention;
[0056] FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a seventh
embodiment of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention;
[0057] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a hydraulic energy
conversion apparatus suitable for use with any of the preceding
embodiments of the invention;
[0058] FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a pneumatic energy
conversion apparatus suitable for use with any of the preceding
embodiments of the invention;
[0059] FIG. 9A is a plan view of the pneumatic energy conversion
apparatus of FIG. 9;
[0060] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the hydraulic energy
conversion apparatus of FIG. 8;
[0061] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic layout drawing of a
counter-weighted plate apparatus suitable for use with the energy
conversion apparatus of FIGS. 9 or 10;
[0062] FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic layout drawing showing a side
elevation of the counter-weighted plate apparatus of FIG. 11;
[0063] FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic layout drawing showing a side
elevation of a centre-pivoted plate apparatus suitable for use with
the energy conversion apparatus of FIGS. 9 or 10;
[0064] FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic layout drawing showing the end
elevation of the centre-pivoted plate apparatus of FIG. 13;
[0065] FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic layout drawing showing the plan
view of the centre-pivoted plate apparatus of FIGS. 13 and 14;
[0066] FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic layout drawing showing a side
elevation of an end pivoted plate apparatus suitable for use with
the apparatus of FIGS. 1 or 7;
[0067] FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic layout drawing showing an end
elevation of the centre-pivoted plate apparatus shown in FIG.
16;
[0068] FIG. 18 is a diagram of a rack and pinion ratchet
arrangement suitable for use with the plate shown in FIGS. 16 and
17;
[0069] FIG. 19 is a diagram of a camshaft arrangement suitable for
use with the arrangement of FIG. 18;
[0070] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing three views of an alternative
camshaft arrangement suitable for use with the arrangement of FIG.
18;
[0071] FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic side elevation of a vehicle
approaching apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable
power according to the invention;
[0072] FIG. 21A is a further diagrammatic side elevation showing
the same vehicle and apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power as FIG. 21, with front wheels of the vehicle resting
on the apparatus;
[0073] FIG. 21B is a further diagrammatic side elevation showing
the same vehicle and apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power as FIG. 21, with rear wheels of the vehicle
approaching the apparatus;
[0074] FIG. 21C is a further diagrammatic side elevation showing
the same vehicle and apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power as FIG. 21, with front wheels of the vehicle leaving
the apparatus;
[0075] FIG. 21D is a further diagrammatic side elevation showing
the same vehicle and apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power as FIG. 21, with only rear wheels of the vehicle
resting on the apparatus;
[0076] FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a eighth
embodiment of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention;
[0077] FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a ninth
embodiment of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention; and
[0078] FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic cross-section of a tenth
embodiment of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention.
[0079] From FIGS. 1 to 7 and FIGS. 22 to 24 it will be readily
understood that a vehicle passing over the movable plate will
experience an initial shock wave causing its suspension to react in
absorbing the said shock wave. A benefit of providing the approach
ramp surface is to result in the suspension being depressed causing
the vehicles suspension to be compressed at the point of impact on
the movable plate of the apparatus for converting kinetic energy
into useable power.
[0080] In describing the approach ramp this may comprise one or
more upward or downward curvatures in the road surface to react on
the vehicle's suspension to optimise the energy delivered by the
vehicle to the power plate herein described
[0081] From FIGS. 1 to 7 and FIGS. 22 to 24 ten alternative
apparatus for converting kinetic energy into useable power 1, 2, 3,
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 are shown which are embodiments of the
invention. Each apparatus comprises a moveable plate 20 coupled to
a power transmitting means (not shown in these figures) to transmit
power to a generator (not shown in these figures), and a vehicle
running track 22 and 23. Vehicles approach the apparatus in the
direction of arrow 1A, running across track 22 first, then across
the plate 20, and leaving across the track 23. To enhance the
efficiency of the operation of the apparatus, a portion of the
approach track 24 is raised so as to cause the approaching vehicle
to drop as it runs onto the plate 20. The portion of approach track
24 may be profiled according to the local situation of the
apparatus and the anticipated vehicle approach speeds. For high
approach speeds a shallow fall such as falling surface 25 may be
appropriate. In this first embodiment a final approach surface 19
is substantially horizontal, and is height 1H below a surface 21 of
the running track 22. The second embodiment 2 has a long raised
hump 26 with a centre of the hump being a distance 2L from a
leading edge 29 of the plate 20. The third embodiment has a short,
low raised hump 27. The fourth embodiment has a short, high raised
hump 28. Since vehicles are likely to traverse the short raised
hump 28 more slowly, it is positioned so that its highest point is
a short distance 1L from the leading edge 29 of the plate 20. The
short distance 1L is shorter than a longer distance 2L where the
anticipated approach speed is higher. The fifth embodiment
comprises a plurality of humps 30 and 31, and although only two
humps are shown more may be provided for a specific installation of
the apparatus. A depression 32 is formed between the two humps 30
and 31. A floor 33 of the depression 32 may be at a level above or
below the level of the surface 21 approach track 22. Hump 30
comprises a rising slope 35, then a substantially horizontal
plateau portion followed by a falling slope 37, similarly hump 31
comprises a rising slope 36 followed by a substantially horizontal
portion followed by a falling slope 38, which leads onto a final
approach surface 39. Such multiple humps, particularly where the
height increases as the humps near the plate may be used to ensure
approaching vehicles reduce their speed as they approach the plate
in a particular location. It will be appreciated that the angle of
the slopes 35, 37 and 36 and 38 and or the heights and or the
lengths of the plateau portions and or the length and depth of the
depression 32 may be adjusted to optimise the efficiency of the
humps. From FIG. 6, embodiment 6 comprises a long shallow slope 40
followed by a shorter steeper slope 41, followed by a plateau
region 42 joined by a short steeper slope 43 to a final approach
surface 44. There is substantially no plateau region between the
slope 40 and the slope 41, and while in these Figures the joining
of two surfaces adjacent surfaces, such as that between slope 40
and slope 41 is shown as a substantially sharp corner, in practice,
because of the nature of the materials used for road surfaces to
obtain a durable surface, such comers may be smoothly blended with
a large radius without detracting from the benefits achieved from
the provision of the humps in the approach surface. From FIG. 7,
embodiment 7 may be seen to comprise a long shallow slope 45
followed by a short steeper slope 46 to a final approach surface 47
leading onto plate 20. In all of the Figures from 1 to 7 and 22 to
24, the hump is of substantially the same width as the plate, and
preferably stretches across the running track from one side to the
other. In alternative embodiments similar in all respects to
embodiments 1 to 10 apart from the profiled portion of the approach
track or hump having a central portion with a level or smoothly
changing gradient along the direction of travel of vehicles
approaching the apparatus so as to provide cyclists and
motorcyclists with a smooth and safe approach to enable them to
cross the apparatus safely.
[0082] FIG. 8 shows by way of example the general layout for a
power conversion unit 80. In this example there are shown below the
level of the surrounding road surface 82, four hydraulic cylinders
83 with their piston rods 84 connected to the underside of the
moveable plate 85. It will be readily understood that any number of
cylinders or a single cylinder may be provided and that such
cylinder may be hydraulic or pneumatic or a convenient combination
of both. A connecting tunnel 86 is provided to enable a hydraulic
connection to a power conversion unit 87 which may be conveniently
situated alongside the running track or carriageway to facilitate
easy maintenance. The power conversion unit produce a suitable
output 88, such as three phase electricity or compressed air or
other fluid.
[0083] FIGS. 9 and 9A illustrate a generator 90, the plate 92
connected to four cylinders 93 either pneumatic, hydraulic, pump or
bellows. The purpose of which is to build up compressed air in an
air receiver 94 and release the air from exit 95 in bursts to
remove pollution from the general area and cause fresh air to fill
the vacated or moved polluted area space. In one further convenient
embodiment it is intended to fit a plate or plates within a road or
rail tunnel to expel polluted air and draw in or cause to be drawn
in fresh air.
[0084] FIG. 10 illustrates a convenient arrangement for a plate
power conversion unit 100 and is by way of example. Conversion unit
100 comprises a hydraulic inlet 101 from, for example the cylinders
of FIGS. 8 or 9, and a return outlet 101' which are connected
through non-return valves 102 and 102' to a hydraulic accumulator
103, and a reservoir tank 104 and hence to a pump 105 which drives
a synchronous generator 106, having a control unit 107 and a
battery 108, the control arranged to control contactor 109 to
switch a three phase output 100T.
[0085] FIG. 11 illustrates a embodiment 110 of a counter weight or
balance system earlier referred to in which the main body of the
plate is fabricated incorporating a counter balance weight 113, and
pivotally mounted on bearings 116 and pillars 117 to a preformed
frame 1182 which is preferably made of a strong material such as a
metal or reinforced concrete. The pre-formed frame is set into the
running track, so that it is preferably substantially flush with
the surrounding surface. The moving edge 111 of the plate may be
provided with return springs 112. It will be apparent that in
utilizing a counter balance 113 the spring forces will be
substantially reduced. An end stop 114 is provided to support the
plate in the event of a heavy vehicle passing over. End stop 114 is
arranged to prevent damage to the springs or energy collection
system, which in this Figure is shown as cylinders 115, but could
be any other suitable mechanism. FIG. 11A shows an enlarged portion
118' of the heavily reinforced plate 118, which is preferably
covered with a non-slip elastomeric membrane 119, such as rubber or
a resilient polymeric material. The membrane 119 extends to cover a
gap between the plate and the surrounding running track surface
110S. Vehicles are preferably arranged to approach in the direction
of arrow 110A.
[0086] FIG. 12 shows a further example and cross-section of the
counter weight/balance plate. It will be readily understood that
the counter balance and pivot may be placed at any convenient
suitable location. A length of the plate 120L, is in a particular
application suitably about 1.2 metres. A dashed outline of the
plate, shows its maximum deflected position. A difference between
the upper and maximum deflected positions gives a maximum ramp
deflection 12D. A suitable value for dimension 12D has been found
in a particular embodiment to be 50 millimetres. When in its
maximum deflected position the top surface of the plate is
substantially level with the running track onto which the vehicle
will pass after crossing the plate. Although shown with hydraulic
cylinders for use with a hydraulic accumulator, these may equally
well be pneumatic bellows and air receiver arrangement to generate
a blast of compressed air.
[0087] FIG. 13 illustrates a further alternative embodiment 130
whereby the plate 131 is centrally pivoted at pivot 132. This
arrangement enables the plate to received increased impact by
virtue of the fact that the front wheels of the vehicle travelling
in the direction of arrow 13T will strike the rear of the plate
first and be followed by the front wheels depressing the front of
the plate and will be followed by the repeat process of the rear
wheels of the vehicle or in the case of multi-axled vehicles by
repeated impact blows resulting in a see-saw effect indicated by
arrows 130S. Support and mounting frame 133 is set substantially
flush into the running track, and provides space 144 for the
cylinders 134 and routing of pipe work under the plate. A bearing
148 and coupling 146 connects the plate to the cylinders 134. The
plate is covered by elastic membrane 135 which extends over the
adjacent running track or road surface 136. The enlarged view shows
the connecting rod pivot 137 and connecting rod 138 connecting the
plate to the cylinders.
[0088] FIG. 14 further illustrates the centrally pivoted plate
apparatus 130 showing the pivot bearings 141, 141' and 141'' across
the plate, the pivot bearings supported by pillars 142, 142' and
142'' from the frame 133. The bearing journals 143 for the
cylinders are attached to the underside of the plate.
[0089] FIG. 15 illustrates a plan view and an example of
alternative pivot bearings and cylinders for the embodiment 130.
Elastic membrane 135 extends around the plate 131, and suitable
overall dimensions for a width 150W of the elastic membrane would
be 2.15 metres and a length 150L of 1.2 metres. In this alternative
arrangement, the pivot bearings 151 and 152 are preferably
positioned outside of the profile 131P of the plate 131.
[0090] FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate two cross-sectional views of an
embodiment 160 having a plate 161 pivoted at one end 162 on pivots
167 supported on pillars 168. Return springs 163 are provided at
the other end 164. Preformed frame assembly 165 provides space 166
for cylinder and camshaft assembly as described below. In this
embodiment, suitable dimensions for the plate would be a width 160W
of 2.15 metres and a length 160L of 1.2 metres. The plate is
covered by elastomeric membrane 169, which extends to overlap
surrounding surface 16S of the running track.
[0091] FIG. 18 illustrates an alternative power transmitting means
180 whereby the plate 181 has mounted beneath its surface a ratchet
mechanism 182 to drive a pinion gear 183 and preferably connected
through idler 184' to a camshaft drive gear 184. Alternatively the
pinion 183 may drive a crankshaft and connecting rod type mechanism
(not shown) to reciprocate the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders
previously referred to. Teeth 185 are arranged to disengage on the
upward stroke, as the plate moves in the direction of arrow
18M.
[0092] FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment 190 of a power
transmitting means comprising a single cam shaft 191 configuration
with four inline cylinders 192 mounted on a mounting plate 19M.
This embodiment 190 would be suitable for use with the alternative
power transmitting means 180. Embodiment 190, when used with
embodiment 180 comprises cam shaft 185 driven by camshaft drive
gear 184, mounted in bearings 186 with cam lobes 187 driving piston
connecting rods 188 which move piston 189 to pump hydraulic fluid
in at 19A and out at 19B. The side elevation shows each piston
connecting rod 188 having a spring retaining collar 193, a return
spring 194 to return the piston on stroke 19S. Mounting flange 195
has mounting bolt holes 196. Pistons 189 have seals 197. A fully
extended piston connecting rod is shown at 19E, and a fully
depressed piston connecting rod is shown at 19D.
[0093] FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment 200 of a power
transmitting apparatus comprising a gear mechanism 201 and twin cam
shaft 202 with cams 204 arrangement with 2.times.2 cylinders 203,
each having a spring retaining collar 205 and a return spring 206.
Cam shafts 202 run in bearings 207 mounted to a bearing housing 208
of a fixed frame of the apparatus. Embodiment 200 is similar to
embodiment 190.
[0094] The invention as herein before described and in particular
reference to the use of hydraulic cylinders is by way of one
example only the plate in the alternative may have provided one or
more hydraulic pumps. It will be readily understood that inertial
forces play a substantial part in absorbing energy and in the case
of hydraulic cylinders the numerous inertial moments will result in
mechanical losses brought about by the stopping and starting of the
cylinders at the end of their travel. Whereas in the case of a
hydraulic pump or pumps the pump or pumps can be so arranged to
continuously travel in a particular path of rotation building up
pressure within the system and preferable through hydraulic
accumulators either by means of being rotated though a gearing
system or by direct connection to a shaft which is rotated through
an escapement mechanism on each movement of the plate.
[0095] FIGS. 21 to 21D are diagrammatic side elevations of a
vehicle 220 approaching apparatus 210 for converting kinetic energy
into useable power according to the invention, showing how the
apparatus moves as the vehicle passes over the apparatus in the
direction of arrow 21A. Since the apparatus and vehicle are
identical in all the FIGS. 21 to 21D, labels are omitted from the
figures as appropriate in the interest of clarity.
[0096] The apparatus comprises a frame 230 arranged to be fixed in
a vehicle running track 240, and a plate 250 moveably mounted to
the frame by pivot 232 and power transmitting means 260 coupled
both to the plate at trunnion 262 and to a power generator (not
shown in FIGS. 21 to 21D). The running track 240 at least on an
approach surface 242 comprises a raised portion 244 that extends
across the track so that the approaching vehicle 220 must pass over
the raised portion before the vehicle runs onto the plate 250.
[0097] Plate 250 comprises three sections, a leading section 252, a
centre section 253, and a trailing section 254. The three sections
are pivotally connected at their leading and trailing edges to each
other or to the frame as appropriate, and hence leading section 252
is pivotally connected to the frame at leading edge 271 and is
pivotally connected to the centre section 253 at trailing edge 272
which is connected to a leading edge 273 of the centre section 253.
The centre section 253 is also pivotally connected to the trailing
section 254, at a trailing edge 274 to a leading edge 275 of the
trailing section 254. The trailing section 254 is also pivotally
connected to the frame 230 at a trailing edge 276.
[0098] The power transmitting means 260 comprises a connecting rod
and sprag clutch arrangement to convert a vertical motion of the
plate at the trunnion to a rotary motion of a drive shaft Although
this arrangement maybe suitable for some applications of the
apparatus 210, it should be noted that alternative power
transmitting means may be more suited to particular applications.
Some such suitable alternatives are described with respect to other
figures in this application.
[0099] In FIG. 21 the vehicle 220 has passed over raised portion or
hump 244 and the raised portion or hump has caused a part of the
vehicle, in this instance a body 221 to rise. The vehicle is about
to run onto the leading section 252 of the plate 250 as the body
221 is dropping in the direction of arrow 21K. As the vehicle
approaches the plate, at this point the leading edge 273 of the
central section 253 of the plate is in an `up` position. As the
front wheels 222 pass over the leading edge the central section
pivots and the plate drops. FIG. 21A shows the vehicle with front
wheels 222 of the vehicle resting on the apparatus, and having
moved the leading edge 273 to a `down` position causing the
trailing edge 274 of the plate to rise in the direction of arrow
21V. This substantially vertical movement is transmitted via a
connecting rod to a sprag clutch which causes a drive shaft to
rotate.
[0100] In FIG. 21A, the rear wheels 224 have just passed over the
highest portion of the raised portion or hump 244 and as the
vehicle continues to travel in the direction of arrow 21A are
dropping onto the plate leading section 252.
[0101] The raised portion of hump has a height 21H above the
approach surface 242, and the highest portion of the raised portion
or hump is a distance 21D from the leading edge 271 of the plate
leading section 252.
[0102] Suitable dimensions for the height 21H and the distance 21D
will depend on the particular requirements of each installation,
the anticipated typical vehicle approach speed being an important
consideration
[0103] Such suitable dimensions for 21H would typically be in the
range of 25 millimetres to 75 millimetres and for distance 21D
would typically be in the range of 100 millimetres to 450
millimetres, although dimensions outside of these ranges will be
required for particular applications to obtain an optimum output
from the power generating apparatus 210.
[0104] FIG. 21B shows rear wheels 224 of the vehicle approaching
the apparatus. As the vehicle moves forward the central plate tips
back to its original `up` position with the leading edge 273 moving
in the direction of arrow 21U causing further rotation of the drive
shaft via a second sprag clutch.
[0105] FIG. 21C shows the frontwheels 222 of the vehicle 220
leaving the apparatus 210. The rear wheels act as in FIG. 21A,
imparting further rotation to the drive shaft.
[0106] FIG. 21D shows only the rear wheels of the vehicle resting
on the apparatus. The rear wheels act as in FIG. 21B, giving a
final rotation to the drive shaft and leaving the plate in position
as shown in FIG. 21 ready for the next vehicle approaching in the
direction of arrow 21A.
[0107] Although the description with reference to FIGS. 21 to 21D
makes reference to a particular mechanical form of energy
conversion mechanism, any of the energy conversion apparatus
described herein could be used instead. The sprag clutch
arrangement has a particular benefit that energy is collected
positively by the mechanism with each movement of the plate. The
hydraulic or pneumatic arrangements described herein could be
similarly adapted by using double acting cylinders.
[0108] From FIG. 22 a diagrammatic cross-section of a eighth
embodiment 320 of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention is shown. The apparatus
comprises an inclined ramp 321 of length 32L rising from a running
track 322, and ending in a radiused step 323, a height 32H above a
plate 324. Plate 324 is pivotally mounted at 328 to a fixed fame
mounted in the running track. In use, a vehicle approaches the
apparatus in the direction of arrow 32A, and as it travels towards
the plate, at least a part of the vehicle, for example, the wheels
and unsprung mass of the vehicle, is deflected upwards by the
inclined ramp before dropping onto the plate 324. The action of the
vehicle dropping onto and traversing the plate exerts a downwards
force on power transmitting apparatus 325, so as to cause a power
output from the apparatus. In a particular arrangement of this
embodiment, the power transmitting apparatus comprises a connecting
rod 326 and crankshaft 327 arrangement to convert the substantially
vertical motion of the plate into a rotary output motion from the
power transmitting apparatus. The connecting rod 326 is preferably
connected to the plate at a hinged joint between two similar plates
324 and 324'.
[0109] It has been found in a particular application that a
suitable value for the length 32L is 1220 millimetres, for the
length 32P is 610 millimetres, and for the height 32H is 38
millimetres.
[0110] From FIG. 23 a diagrammatic cross-section of a ninth
embodiment 330 of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention is shown The apparatus
comprises an inclined ramp 331 of length 33L rising from a running
track 332, and ending in a radiused step 333, a height 33H above a
plate 334. In operation, embodiment 330 is similar to that of
embodiment 320.
[0111] It has been found in a particular application that a
suitable value for the length 33L is 1220 millimetres, for the
length 33P is 610 millimetres, and for the height 33H is 38
millimetres.
[0112] From FIG. 24 a diagrammatic cross-section of a tenth
embodiment 340 of an apparatus for converting kinetic energy into
useable power according to the invention is shown. The apparatus
comprises an inclined ramp 341 of length 34L rising from a running
track 342, and ending in a radiused step 343, a height 34H above a
plate 344. In operation, embodiment 340 is similar to that of
embodiment 330 and 320.
[0113] It has been found in a particular application that a
suitable value for the length 32L is 1829 millimetres, for the
length 32P is 610 millimetres, and for the height 32H is 32
millimetres.
[0114] Each embodiment is slightly different, each being better
suited to a particular application where particular traffic is
anticipated. Hence, each of the radiused steps 323, 333 and 343
differs slightly in its shape, and the proportions of the inclined
ramp 341 is significantly longer than that of ramp 321 or 331.
[0115] It will be appreciated that the embodiments described
convert kinetic energy from passing vehicles into another form of
energy useful in a particular application, such as electrical power
or compressed air.
[0116] Reference throughout this application is made to vehicular
traffic. It should be readily understood that there is no practical
reason why this invention should not equally apply to
locomotives/trains and/or the carriages comprising them be they
surface trains or underground trains since the plate in these
circumstances would be set between the rails and a suitable
projection on each carriage would cause the plate to rock or move
about its axis thereby generating energy. This would be
particularly relevant on downward gradients without causing any
significant disturbance or sensation to the passengers. An approach
ramp would enhance a degree of impact loading on the plate and
cancel out any opposing movement by the train's suspension system.
It will also be readily appreciated that in a country like
Australia where very substantial distances exist between stations
the ability to generate power by the forward motion of the train
particularly on downward gradients would be of great value.
[0117] It will be readily understood that any form of plate
particularly a movable plate as proposed in this application will
be subject to the ingress of dust, dirt, water, oil etc and for
this reason it is proposed to provide a complete seal over the
entire mechanism by the utilization of preferably a elastomeric
cover which may be of natural rubber or any suitable manmade
alternative. Sufficient elasticity must be incorporated to allow
adequate movement since in a further proposal it is possible that
the plate referred to may project a small amount above the road
surface but be allowed to travel to some degree below the road
surface thereby minimizing the impact on a vehicle passing over
it
[0118] Relating to the impact on the vehicle it will also be
understood that since the plate in the present proposal is damped
by the hydraulic/pneumatic system the resultant shock wave will be
for all intents and purposes imperceptible. Reference should also
be made to the fact that either cylinder may in the alternative be
gas filled In reference to the utilization of a pump or bellows for
reducing pollution it will be also understood that a pipe or
channel along the roadside may carry the fumes and pollution so
collected to a remote site for burning or cleansing by other
means.
[0119] In reference to reducing pollution it will readily
understood that the pure act of moving air does not reduce
pollution. However in one convenient embodiment described it will
be appreciated that the air pressure generated and the resultant
air movement will result in new air coming in to take the place of
the air moved thereby reducing the harmful effect by means of
dilution of the pollution.
[0120] In yet a further convenient embodiment the plate mechanism
may be utilized to drive a bellows or fan type mechanism or any
other suitable mechanism to draw in or expel air from tunnels
utilized for the carriage of traffic or from densely populated town
locations where fumes have been caused to settle by gravitational
influences.
* * * * *