Patent Publication Number: US-2011062715-A1

Title: Submersible hydroelectric power generator and methods thereof

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/242,043, filed Sep. 14, 2009, entitled “Hydroelectric Power Generator and Methods Thereof,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a submersible hydroelectric power generator and methods thereof. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for generating usable electric power by harnessing continuous tidal and current flow from a lake, river, stream or ocean and efficiently and perpetually generating electric energy therefrom. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     The concept of harnessing energy from natural water flow has been practiced for centuries. These known methods of harnessing the kinetic energy present in any moving body of water range from a water or paddle wheel for powering old mills, all the way to large scale municipal projects involving the construction of dams and other structures to funnel water through turbines. Regardless of design, the general principle of these known systems involve converting water flow, either gravity or tidal driven, as an energy source. 
     In more recent advancements, a variety of improved paddlewheel style designs have been suggested for generating electricity from water power. A significant problem with paddlewheel designs is the lack of applicability underwater, e.g., on or near the ocean floor. Given the symmetry of the design of a paddlewheel, the force from a current flow on a top blade in a first direction, is substantially the same force in the same first direction on a bottom—thus, leaving the paddlewheel motionless. 
     Similarly, a variety of rotary generation devices utilizing a propeller or turbine style blades have been contemplated for the generation of hydroelectric power. A major problem with these types of systems in underwater applications is the complete decimation of marine life downstream. By its very design, the rotary generation device creates intense turbulent flow which destroys coral reefs, marine life habitats, and eventually causes sand bed or ocean floor erosion. 
     Although most energy in the United States is produced by fossil-fuel and nuclear power plants, hydroelectricity is still important to the nation, as about 7 percent of total power is produced by hydroelectric plants. Unfortunately, much of the hydroelectric power is obtained through the use of dams, which can have drastic environmental effects through either the creation of a new dam (i.e., blockage of existing water sources) or destruction of old dams (i.e., potential flooding downstream). 
     Outside of the United States hydroelectricity represents approximately 19% of total world electricity production. According to recent studies, approximately two-thirds of the economically feasible potential remains to be developed, with a significant portion of untapped hydroelectric resources being abundant in Latin America, Central Africa, India and China. 
     While known solutions have suggested various improvements to traditional hydroelectric generation devices, there remains a need for an improved hydroelectric power generator suitable for underwater applications and methods thereof while overcoming the shortcomings of existing devices. 
     SUMMARY 
     Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a submersible hydroelectric power generator and methods thereof. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for generating usable electric power by harnessing continuous tidal and current flow from a lake, river, stream or ocean and efficiently and perpetually generating electric energy therefrom. 
     In one embodiment of the present invention, a submersible hydroelectric power generator comprises a frame structure supporting a continuous track, a plurality of fins, each fin rotatably connected to the track about a bottom edge of the fin, a power generator in communication with the track, the power generator for converting rotational mechanical energy to electrical energy, wherein each of the plurality of fins are in an open position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a front and a top portion of the frame structure, and wherein each of the plurality of fins are in a closed position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a rear and bottom portion of the frame structure. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, a power system comprises a source of continuously moving water, a submersible hydroelectric power generator comprising a frame structure supporting a continuous track, a plurality of fins, each fin rotatably connected to the track about a bottom edge of the fin, a power generator in communication with the track, the power generator for converting rotational mechanical energy to electrical energy, wherein each of the plurality of fins are in an open position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a front and a top portion of the frame structure, and wherein each of the plurality of fins are in a closed position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a rear and bottom portion of the frame structure, and a power consumption entity. 
     In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a method of generating hydroelectric power comprises providing a submersible hydroelectric power generator, the submersible hydroelectric power generator comprising: a frame structure supporting a continuous track, a plurality of fins, each fin rotatably connected to the track about a bottom edge of the fin, a power generator in communication with the track, the power generator for converting rotational mechanical energy to electrical energy, wherein each of the plurality of fins are in an open position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a front and a top portion of the frame structure, and wherein each of the plurality of fins are in a closed position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a rear and bottom portion of the frame structure; placing the submersible hydroelectric power generator in a source of continuously moving water, wherein the front of the frame structure is facing towards the direction of the continuously moving water; generating electrical energy from the rotational mechanical energy of the track; and distributing the electrical energy to a power consumption entity. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       So the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of embodiments of the present invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of embodiments encompassed within the scope of the present invention, and, therefore, are not to be considered limiting, for the present invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  depicts a perspective view of a submersible hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  depicts a top view of a submersible hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  depicts a perspective view of a fin for use in a submersible hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  depicts a side view of a fin for use in a submersible hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5  depicts a side view of a hydroelectric power system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 6  depicts a flowchart of a method of generating hydroelectric energy in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word “may” is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words “include”, “including”, and “includes” mean including but not limited to. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments or other examples described herein. However, it will be understood that these examples may be practiced without the specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail, so as to not obscure the following description. Furthermore, the examples disclosed herein are for exemplary purposes only and other examples may be employed in lieu of, or in combination with, the examples disclosed. 
     Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a submersible hydroelectric power generator and methods thereof. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus for generating usable and/or storable electrical energy by harnessing continuous tidal and/or current flow from a lake, river, stream or ocean and efficiently and perpetually generating electrical energy therefrom. 
       FIG. 1  depicts a perspective view of a submersible hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Generally, a hydroelectric power generator  100  comprises a frame structure for supporting a continuous track  110 , a plurality of fins (or protruded airfoils)  120   1-n , and a power generator  130  for converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. In many embodiments, the hydroelectric power generator  100  is intended to be placed underwater into a continuous tidal or current flow from a lake, river, stream or ocean, as designated by current C. 
     The frame structure for supporting the continuous track  110  comprises any type of frame structure suitable for embodiments of the present invention to maintain the general positioning and optional housing of the hydroelectric power generator  100 . In one embodiment, the frame structure incorporates a pair of opposing track rails that make up a portion of the continuous track  110 . In yet another embodiment, the frame structure  110  comprises a housing structure for supporting at least the continuous track  110 , the plurality of fins  120   1-n  and the generator  130 . A more detailed description of certain embodiments of the frame structure is provided herein. 
     It should be appreciated, embodiments of the present invention are designed to be utilized either as a self-standing/floating apparatus or as engaged with a floating device, such as a barge. In the first instance, the hydroelectric power generator  100  may be anchored or tethered to the ocean, lake or river floor by any means suitable. Optionally, in such an embodiment, the means for anchoring allows for rotational movement of the hydroelectric power generator  100 , such that the device may always be capable of aligning itself with the direction of the current. 
     In certain embodiments, whereby the hydroelectric power generator  100  is engaged with a floating device, such as a barge, the hydroelectric power generator  100  may be positioned in any direction the barge faces—which is usually the direction of the current. However, when the barge is in motion, either through self-propelled means or through tow, the hydroelectric power generator  100  may be facing the towards direction of movement, in which instance the relative motion of the water flow will remain the proper direction of the hydroelectric power generator  100  for operation. 
     The continuous track  110  may comprise any type track suitable for embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, the continuous track  110  comprises a loop of rigid material (e.g., connected metal plates, chain, rope, etc.) capable of supporting the forces endured when the hydroelectric power generator  100  is in operation. In many embodiments, the continuous track  110  is also provided to engage the plurality of fins  120 . A more detailed description of embodiments of the continuous track is provided herein. 
     The generator  130  may comprise any type of power generator capable of converting mechanical energy to an alternate form of energy suitable for embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, the generator  130  comprises an electrical generator for converting rotational mechanical energy to electrical energy using electromagnetic induction, or similar means to convert the forms of energy. Alternative embodiments of the present invention may employ any other type of power converter or storage apparatus, as such devices are well known in the industry. 
     The generator  130  is generally positioned integrally with the frame support, although in certain embodiment, may merely be mechanically engaged therewith. In one embodiment, the generator  130  comprises a shaft, gear or other rotatable structure engaged with the plurality of fins  120   1-n , for example, with a continuous track  110  connecting each of the fins  120   1-n . Thus, as the fins  120   1-n  move about a path defined by the continuous track  110 , a rotational movement is imparted to the rotatable structure of the generator  130 . In turn, the generator  130  converts such rotational movement to electrical energy that may either be immediately harnessed in a remote application or stored for later use. 
     The fins  120   1-n  (hereinafter collectively referred to as “fins  120 ”) each comprise an airfoil, rotatably connected on a first end to at least a portion of the track  110  of the frame support. In many embodiments, all of the fins  120  are interconnected with a belt or chain-type connection means within the track. In such an embodiment, any movement of one fin requires movement of all fins about the track, in an equidistant motion. 
     The fins  120  generally serve to engage the current or tidal flow of the water as it passes over the submersible hydroelectric power generator  100 . In many instances, as water current approaches the hydroelectric power generator  100 , a front fin engages a volume of water, flowing at a particular volumetric flow rate (e.g., 100 cu.ft./sec.). As soon at the volume of water hits a surface of the front fin, an immediate force is applied to the fin. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, once such force reaches a threshold value, which may occur almost instantaneously upon the slightest measurable force, the fin is forced to move in the direction of the current, clockwise about the continuous track. 
     Because the fins  120  are interconnected, in many embodiments, as soon as the front fin moves clockwise about the continuous track  110 , all of the fins  120  move clockwise about the continuous track  110 . Once the front fin is moved a sufficient distance, generally equal to about the distance between fins  120  within the hydroelectric power generator  100 , a subsequent fin is then in position to become the front fin, and the cycle continues. 
     As discussed supra, the fins  120  are generally rotatable about a first end connected with the track of the frame support  110 . In most embodiments, the rotation of the fins  120  is limited to between positions of about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees rotation. In such embodiments, the rotation of the fins  120  may be stopped at 90 degrees by mechanical stops, braces, or the like, affixed to a back side of the fins  120 . The fins may be closed, to its zero degree position, by virtue of the continuous track  110 . 
     In some embodiments, the fins  120  are optionally provided with floatation devices  122 , affixed to a top back portion of the fins  120 . The floatation devices  122  may comprise any material suitable for embodiments of the present invention and capable of facilitating the extension of the front fin to a position substantially close to a 90 degree position at the earliest reasonable opportunity. By doing so, the front fin is capable of engaging the water current on its front surface and being the primary driving fin of the submersible hydroelectric power generator  100 . Similarly, as the fins move around the back side of the hydroelectric power generator  100 , the floatation device  122  may assist in the closing of the fin to a zero degree position, substantially parallel or flat against a bottom portion of the continuous track  110 . 
     It should be appreciated that components of the hydroelectric power generator  100  may comprise any size suitable for embodiments of the present invention. In certain embodiments, the hydroelectric power generator  100  may be adapted for an industrial scale, such that it may comprise a length up to about a quarter mile or longer, having hundreds or thousands of fins thereon. In another embodiment, the hydroelectric power generator  100  may be adapted for use in a personal residence located on a river or stream, and may be between about eight to about 20 feet long, having between ten to twenty fins thereon. In yet another embodiment, the hydroelectric power generator  100  may be adapted for use with a decorative water fountain having a slight current therewith. In such an embodiment, the hydroelectric power generator  100  may be on the order of inches long, with a few fins thereon. 
     The materials utilized for each of the components of the hydroelectric power generator  100  may comprise any non-corrosive materials suitable for embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, the materials utilized as the components of the hydroelectric power generator  100  comprise at least one of a non-corrosive or low-corrosion metal, such as stainless steel, zinc, titanium, magnesium, cadmium, graphite, or the like. Alternatively, the materials utilized as the components of the hydroelectric power generator  100  may comprise a polymer such as polystyrene, poly(methyl) methacrylate, polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, poly(vinyl chloride), carbon fiber, nylon, polyisoprene, polybutadiene, polyisobutylene or the like. 
       FIG. 2  depicts a top view of a hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The hydroelectric power generator  200  generally comprises a continuous track  210 , a plurality of fins  220 , and a generator  230 . The hydroelectric power generator  200  may further comprise a front nozzle structure  240  and a rear diffuser structure  250  for facilitating the flow of water into and out of the hydroelectric power generator  200 . In addition, the hydroelectric power generator  200  may also optionally comprise a plurality of inlets  260  along sidewalls of the hydroelectric power generator  200  to allow additional water into the top channel to allow trailing fins to assist in the driving force behind the generator  230 . 
     The front nozzle structure  240  may comprise any type of physical structure suitable for facilitating the flow of water into the hydroelectric power generator  200 . Although termed a “nozzle,” it should be appreciated that any basic structure (e.g., nozzle, diffuser, or the like) may be suitable for embodiments of the present invention. In many embodiments, the function of the front nozzle structure  240  is to ensure the volume of water entering the hydroelectric power device  200  is flowing as laminar as possible prior to engaging the front fin. In other embodiments, the function of the front nozzle structure  240  is to provide a maximum volumetric water flow rate into the hydroelectric power device  200 . As such, the front nozzle structure  240  may be any size, shape, length, etc., to facilitate desirable flow characteristics into the hydroelectric power generator  200 . 
     In one embodiment, the front nozzle structure  240  is designed as a conical-type structure, terminating on a first end in a substantially apex shape. The second end of such structure may terminate at a point of intersection where the front fin is extended to its open, substantially 90 degree position. Acting as a nozzle, an increased force may be applied to the front fin as soon as it is in an accepting, open position. 
     The rear diffuser structure  250  may comprise any type of physical structure suitable for facilitating the flow of water out of the hydroelectric power generator  200  with minimal environmental impact. Although termed a “diffuser,” it should be appreciated that any basic structure (e.g., nozzle, diffuser, or the like) may be suitable for embodiments of the present invention. 
     In many embodiments, the function of the rear diffuser structure  250  may be to ensure the volume of water leaving the hydroelectric power device  200  is flowing as laminar as possible so as to not disturb marine life surrounding the hydroelectric power device. In other embodiments, the function of the rear diffuser structure is to direct the output volume of water in a different direction than it would normally have flowed, for example, where preservation of a particular environmental structure requires deflection of any direct current—natural or artificial. As such, the rear diffuser structure  250  may be any size, shape, length, etc., to facilitate desirable flow characteristics out of the hydroelectric power generator  200 . 
     The optional plurality of inlets  260  along sidewalls of the hydroelectric power generator  200  may be provided to allow additional water into or out of the top channel of the hydroelectric power generator  200 . Although the primary driving force of the hydroelectric power generator  200  is the front fin at any given instance, it may be desirable to maximize overall force on all fins to increase the rotational power driving the generator  230 . By providing optional inlets  260 , there may be increased volumetric flow into trailing fins  220 , thus increasing the overall force applied to the fins  220 . 
     In addition to the inlets  260 , another means to increase the overall force applied to the fins  220  is to minimize the drag on each of the fins once the fin reaches a back side of the hydroelectric power generator  200  and begins to collapse to its closed, zero degree position. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the fins  220  may optionally be fitted with one or more release doors  224 . 
     The release doors  224  may be pivotably affixed to the fins  220 , pivoting toward the front surface of the fins  220 . As a fin  220  moves around the backside of the hydroelectric power generator  200 , the release doors naturally open in light of the force of the water, now on a back surface of the fin  220 . By opening the release doors, the overall surface area of the back surface of the fin  220  is reduced, thus decreasing the drag force thereon. 
       FIG. 3  depicts a perspective view of a fin for use in a submersible hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. A fin  300  generally comprises a substantially rigid member, having a front surface  320  for engaging a fluid when submersed in a source of continuously moving fluid. In many embodiments, the fin  300  is substantially rectangular having a height defined between a bottom edge  330  and a top edge  340 , and a width measured between its two side edges. In many embodiments the fin  300  has a thickness that is substantially less than either the width or height, measured between the front surface  320  and the back surface  310  of the fin. In certain embodiments the fin  300  has a varying thickness, as determined to be suitable for embodiments of the present invention. 
     In some embodiments, the fin  300  comprises one or more release doors  350  as described above. The surface area of the front of the release doors  350  may comprise anywhere between about 10% to about 75% of the overall surface area of the front surface  320  of the fin  300 . As explained above, the release doors  350  may be pivotably connected to the fin  300 , such that the release doors  350  may facilitate the passage of water through the fin  300  when the water is acting on the back surface  310  of the fin  300 . In alternative embodiments, the release door  350  may comprise a unidirectional permeable material, such that water may pass therethrough in one direction, but not in the other. Similarly, in other embodiments, the release door  350  may comprise a one-way valve to achieve the same function as described hereinabove. 
     In many embodiments of the present invention, the fin  300  is provided with a degree of concavity about its front surface  320 , to enable the fin  300  to maximize drag force thereon when in position to engage a source of continuously flowing fluid, yet act as an airfoil, having minimal drag thereon when in a position to avoid restrictive forces. The degree of concavity of the fin  300 , as measured about a mean camber line of the fin  300 , may vary depending upon the commercial application of an embodiment of the present invention. 
     The bottom edge  330  of the fin  300  may generally comprise a pivotable means of engagement whereby the fin  300  may connect to or engage a continuous track (not shown), as described herein. Depending on the varying structure of the types of continuous tracks utilized with embodiments of the present invention, the pivotable means of engagement may comprise any suitable apparatus or structure. For example, in one embodiment, the pivotable means of engagement comprises a hinge, whereby one side of the hinge in connected to the fin  300  at the bottom edge  330 , and the opposing side of the hinge is affixed to the continuous track. Further embodiments of the present invention appreciate any type of pivotable structure may be suitable for embodiments of the present invention. 
     In some embodiments of the present invention, an optional wheel support  360  may be provided to assist the fin  300  when passing around the backside and underside of a frame, as discussed herein, to engage a rail and ensure proper motion and positioning of the fin  300  in a closed position. 
       FIG. 4  depicts a side view of a fin for use in a submersible hydroelectric power generator in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Similar to  FIG. 3 , the fin  400  generally comprises a top edge  440  and a bottom edge  430 . The fin  400  may also generally comprise at least one release door  450 . As shown in the Figure, the release door  450  may swing to an open position about a hinge  454  when the back surface of the fin  400  is acted upon by a force F. In many embodiments, the force F is caused by a volume of water. As such, when the release door  450  is in an open position, the volume of water may pass through the space  452  in the fin  400 . Similarly, when in an open position, the surface area of the back surface of the fin is greatly reduced, thus minimizing any forces acting thereon by water pressure. Although the release door  450  is shown as being pivotable along its edge closest to the top edge  440  of the fin  400 , the release door  450  may be pivotable about any of its edges, as determined by the specific application of embodiments of the present invention. Similarly, the release door  450  may comprise substantially any shape feasible within the context of embodiments of the present invention to optimize performance thereof. 
     The fin  400  may also comprise the optional wheel support  460 , as introduced above. In such embodiments, the wheel support  460  may comprise a single wheel  462  supported by a bracket structure  464  off the back surface of the fin  400 . Although shown proximate the side edge of the fin  400 , the wheel support  460  is generally aligned with the continuous track, which may not extend the entire width of the fin  400 . In certain embodiments, two or more of the wheel supports  460  may be provided on the fin  400 . Also, in alternative embodiments, similar structures (i.e., for providing similar function) may be utilized to assist the fin  400  achieve proper motion and positioning. 
       FIG. 5  depicts a side view of a hydroelectric power system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In many embodiments, the hydroelectric power system  500  comprises a source of continuously moving water shown by its current C, a submersible hydroelectric power generator, and a power consumption entity (e.g., a building, a factory, a lighting fixture, a machine, a boat, a capacitive device, etc.) (not shown). In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the submersible hydroelectric power generator generally comprises a frame structure  570  supporting a continuous track  510 , a plurality of fins  520 , each fin  520  rotatably connected to the track  510  about a bottom edge of the fin, a power generator  530  in communication with the track for converting rotational mechanical energy to electrical energy, and a power transmission line  580  (e.g., an industry-standard industrial power cable) for transmitting electrical energy to the power consumption entity. 
     The frame  570  of the submersible hydroelectric power generator generally comprises a top portion  572 , a bottom portion  574 , a front portion (not shown) positioned towards the source of the current C, and a rear portion opposing the front portion. The frame  570  may optionally be provided with a base mount or other tethering device to allow the hydroelectric power generator to rest on the floor  590  of the source of continuous water (e.g., a river bed floor, an ocean floor, etc.). It should be appreciated, although the front portion is described as being positioned towards the current C, the overall hydroelectric power generator may be positioned at a particular angle to the mean direction of the current C. That is, the current C may have a varying angle of attack with respect to the overall hydroelectric power generator. 
     Although not shown in the Figure, the frame  570  may also be provided with a housing or other protective and/or enclosing surfaces as may be needed to operate embodiments of the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, rather than leaving the entire hydroelectric power generator and its components open to flowing water, the interior of the device, i.e., within a volume defined by the continuous track  510 , may be sealed by a housing. Often, the nature of the application of the system  500  will determine whether such housing is both feasible and/or necessary for optimal operation. 
     In many embodiments of the present invention, in operation, the plurality of fins  520  are in an open position when the fin  520  is passing along the continuous track  510  over a front and a top portion  572  of the frame structure  570 , and the plurality of fins  520  are in a closed position when the fin  520  is passing along the continuous track  510  over a rear and bottom portion  574  of the frame structure  570 . By operating in such a manner, the force created on the fins  520  in the open position (i.e., along the top portion  572  of the frame  570 ) by the current C is significantly greater than the force created on the fins  520  in the closed position (i.e., along the bottom portion  574  of the frame  570 ). 
     In some embodiments, the continuous track  510  comprises a means  512  for enabling the power generator  530  to receive rotational energy. As shown in the Figure, the means  512  may comprise a plurality of projections on an inside surface of the track  510 . In such an embodiment, the projections may engage a primary gear  532 , which subsequently engages a driving gear  534  of the power generator  530 . In alternative embodiments, any structural arrangement for imparting rotational energy on a driving gear  534  of the power generator  530  may be utilized. For example, any gear, shaft, or track arrangement may be suitable for embodiments of the present invention. 
     As described supra, the fins  520  may comprise a release door  550 , and a wheel support  560 . The fins  520  may also comprise a floatation device  522 , which assists the fins  520  to reach an open position when passing the front portion of the frame  570  and a closed position when passing the rear portion of the frame  570 . As shown in the Figure, when passing the rear portion to the bottom portion  574  of the frame  570 , the wheel support  560  of the fin  520  may engage the frame  570 , or a portion thereof, and ensure the fin  520  remains in a closed position until it reaches the front portion of the frame  570 . 
       FIG. 6  depicts a flowchart of a method of generating hydroelectric energy in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The method  600  begins at step  610 . At step  620 , a submersible hydroelectric power generator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, is provided. In such embodiment, the submersible hydroelectric power generator may comprise at least a frame structure supporting a continuous track, a plurality of fins, each fin rotatably connected to the track about a bottom edge of the fin, and a power generator in communication with the track for converting rotational mechanical energy to electrical energy. 
     At step  630 , the submersible hydroelectric power generator is placed into a source of continuously moving water. For example, in one embodiment, the submersible hydroelectric power generator is placed within a river, a stream, an ocean or the like. In many embodiments, it may be beneficial to place the submersible hydroelectric power generator within a source of continuously moving water having predictable movement trends (e.g., an ocean having a predictable tide schedule, or a river having a known flow rate for specific times of year based on measured rainfall). Often, when placing the submersible hydroelectric power generator into the water, it is desirable to anchor, tether or otherwise affix the submersible hydroelectric power generator to a fixed or controllable object, such as the floor of water source, a barge, a buoy, or the like. Similarly, depending on the nature of the water source, it may be desirable to allow the submersible hydroelectric power generator to rotate about a vertical axis, to continuously face an oncoming current. 
     At step  640 , electrical energy is generated from mechanical energy of the continuous track of the submersible hydroelectric power generator. As described hereinabove, because each of the plurality of fins are in an open position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a front and a top portion of the frame structure, and because each of the plurality of fins are in a closed position when the fin is passing along the continuous track over a rear and bottom portion of the frame structure, a continuous “clockwise” motion is imparted to the track when the submersible hydroelectric power generator is submersed into the water. By utilizing any type of means for enabling the power generator to receive rotational energy described herein, the power generator is continuously receiving rotational mechanical energy. By virtue of the nature of the generator (e.g., an electromagnetic generator), electrical energy may be produced therein. 
     At step  650 , such electrical energy may be distributed to a power consumption entity. In many embodiments, the power consumption entity exists above the surface of the water. Any type of structure, device, apparatus, etc., that can utilize electrical energy may be suitable for the power consumption entity. In certain embodiments, the power consumption entity may comprise a capacitive device (e.g., a battery), for storing electrical energy for future use. In such types of embodiments, energy generated by the submersible hydroelectric power generator may be utilized great distances away from the source of water. 
     The method  600  ends at step  660 . 
     In accordance with alternative embodiments of the present invention, the submersible hydroelectric power generator may be modified and altered in numerous ways without departing from the scope and intent of the disclosed embodiments herein. For example, although disclosed in a substantially oval or rectangular shape, the overall frame and continuous track structure of the submersible hydroelectric power generator may comprise any suitable shape (e.g., circular, square, triangular, etc.) to yield optimal results for a particular application. 
     While the foregoing is directed to embodiments of the present invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof.