Patent Publication Number: US-9835142-B2

Title: Bladeless turbine

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. Ser. No. 13/808,081 filed on May 10, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,163,512, which is a national phase application of PCT/US2011/42911 filed on Jul. 4, 2011. PCT/US2011/42911 claims benefit of provisional patent applications U.S. Ser. No. 61/361,238 filed Jul. 2, 2010, U.S. Ser. No. 61/361,266 filed on Jul. 2, 2010, U.S. Ser. No. 61/361,251 filed on Jul. 2, 2010, and U.S. Ser. No. 61/361,215 filed on Jul. 2, 2010; and is a continuation-in-part application of PCT/US2010/049196, filed on Sep. 16, 2010 which claims benefit of provisional patent application U.S. Ser. No. 61/243,154 filed on Sep. 16, 2009. 
    
    
     INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIALS FILED ON COMPACT DISC 
     None. 
     TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to the field of power generation and, more particularly, to a bladeless turbine. 
     STATEMENT OF FEDERALLY FUNDED RESEARCH 
     None. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The high cost, diminishing supply and environmental impact of fossil fuels continues to promote interest in solar energy, biomass combustion, geothermal heat, industrial waste heat recovery and other alternative clean energy sources. For example, solar energy has been used to heat water for use in homes and businesses for many years. Likewise, direct conversion of solar energy to electricity has been used for many years for satellites and spacecraft. But, these existing solar energy systems typically have low thermal efficiencies, require large installation areas and/or require expensive components. As a result, systems to efficiently and cost effectively convert solar energy to electricity are not available to the general public. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for a more efficient and economical turbine for use in solar energy, biomass combustion, geothermal heat and industrial waste heat recovery systems. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides a bladeless turbine for driving mechanical loads and generating AC electrical power in solar energy, biomass combustion, geothermal heat and industrial waste heat recovery systems. 
     More specifically, the present invention provides a bladeless fluid/vapor turbine that includes: (a) three or more turbine discs disposed within a case, wherein each turbine disc has a center opening, a first set of holes substantially equally spaced from one another along a first radius from a centerline, a second set of holes substantially equally spaced from one another along a second radius from the centerline, and two or more of the turbine discs have a set of exhaust ports positioned annularly around the center opening; (b) the case includes a main housing and a cover having the centerline, and one or more fluid/vapor inlets oriented to direct a fluid/vapor onto an outer portion of the three or more turbine discs; (c) a drive shaft passing through the center openings of the three or more turbine discs and attached to the three or more turbine discs, wherein the drive shaft is positioned within the case along the centerline, free to rotate within the case, and extends through the main housing; (d) a fluid/vapor outlet in the cover and aligned with the centerline; and (e) a set of exhaust holes proximate to and connected to the fluid/vapor outlet that are positioned annularly around the drive shaft. 
     In addition, the present invention provides a solar power system that includes one or more solar collectors, a solar tracking device, a bladeless fluid/vapor turbine, a generator and a controller. Each solar collector includes (a) one or more support structures for securely mounting the solar collector to a surface, (b) a reflective parabolic trough for concentrating solar energy along a focal axis and attached to the support structure(s) to allow rotation of the reflective parabolic trough around a longitudinal axis, (c) one or more receiver tubes attached to the reflective parabolic trough along the focal axis, and (d) a motor operably connected to the reflective parabolic trough to rotate the reflective parabolic trough around the longitudinal axis. Each receiver tube includes (i) a metal tube having an inlet, an outlet and a solar absorption coating, and (ii) a transparent tube having a first seal and a second seal to vacuum or hermetically seal the metal tube between approximately the inlet and the outlet within the transparent tube. The solar tracking device has one or more sensors to control the motor to align each solar collector to maximize the solar energy collected by the one or more receiver tubes. The bladeless fluid/vapor turbine includes: (a) three or more turbine discs disposed within a case, wherein each turbine disc has a center opening, a first set of holes substantially equally spaced from one another along a first radius from a centerline, a second set of holes substantially equally spaced from one another along a second radius from the centerline, and two or more of the turbine discs have a set of exhaust ports positioned annularly around the center opening, (b) the case comprising a main housing and a cover having the centerline, and one or more fluid/vapor inlets connected to the outlet of the receiver tube(s) and oriented to direct a fluid/vapor onto an outer portion of the three or more turbine discs, (c) a drive shaft passing through the center openings of the three or more turbine discs and attached to the three or more turbine discs, wherein the drive shaft is positioned within the case along the centerline, free to rotate within the case, and extends through the main housing, (d) a fluid/vapor outlet in the cover that is aligned with the centerline connected to the inlet of the receiver tube(s), and (e) a set of exhaust holes proximate to and connected to the fluid/vapor outlet that are positioned annularly around the drive shaft. The generator is connected to the drive shaft of the fluid/vapor turbine and having one or more electrical output terminals. The controller is connected to the motor, the solar tracking device, the fluid/vapor turbine and the generator to monitor and control the system. 
     The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Further benefits and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of various embodiments that are given by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings: 
         FIG. 1  is a high level block diagram of a solar energy power generation system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagram of a turbine and generator assembly connected to solar collector (trough) in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagram showing the valve and piping layout for a solar energy to power generation system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a diagram of a reflective parabolic trough in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 5A and 5B  are diagrams of a solar tracking device mounted on a reflective parabolic trough in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a diagram of some structural details of a reflective parabolic trough in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7  is a diagram of a motor assembly for rotating a reflective parabolic trough in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  are diagrams of a receiver tube in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a diagram of a support structure in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 10A-10C  are various diagrams of a housing for some of the components in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a block diagram showing the valve and piping layout for a solar energy power generation system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C  are diagrams of a turbine case and gasket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C  are diagrams of the rear, intermediate and front discs, respectively, for the fluid/vapor turbine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 14A and 14B  are diagrams of an inlet nozzle and gasket for the fluid/vapor turbine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a diagram of a shaft for the fluid/vapor turbine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 16  is an exploded diagram of a fluid/vapor turbine in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 17A-1, 17A-2, 17B-1 and 17B-2  are diagrams of a turbine main housing for the fluid/vapor turbine shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIGS. 17C-1, 17C-2, 17C-3, 17D-1 and 17D-2  are diagrams of a turbine cover for the fluid/vapor turbine shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 17E  is a diagram of a turbine cover gasket for the fluid/vapor turbine shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIGS. 18A-1, 18A-2, 18B-1, 18B-2, 18C-1 and 18C-2  are diagrams of the rear, intermediate and front discs, respectively, for the fluid/vapor turbine shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIGS. 19A and 19B  are diagrams of a shaft for the fluid/vapor turbine in shown in  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIGS. 20A-1 and 20A-2  are diagrams of a bearing cover for the fluid/vapor turbine shown in  FIG. 16 ; and 
         FIG. 20B  is a diagram of a bearing cover gasket for the fluid/vapor turbine shown in  FIG. 16 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     While the making and using of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention and do not delimit the scope of the invention. 
     To facilitate the understanding of this invention, a number of terms are defined below. Terms defined herein have meanings as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the areas relevant to the present invention. Terms such as “a”, “an” and “the” are not intended to refer to only a singular entity, but include the general class of which a specific example may be used for illustration. The terminology herein is used to describe specific embodiments of the invention, but their usage does not delimit the invention, except as outlined in the claims. 
     The present invention provides a bladeless turbine for driving mechanical loads and generating AC electrical power in solar energy, biomass combustion, geothermal heat and industrial waste heat recovery systems.  FIGS. 1-11  depict an example of how the bladeless turbine in accordance with the present invention can be used in a solar energy power generation system.  FIGS. 12-15  provide details of the bladeless turbine in accordance with the present invention that can be used in many types of systems, such as solar energy, biomass combustion, geothermal heat, industrial waste heat recovery, and other “green” or semi-“green” systems. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the bladeless turbine in accordance with the present invention is not limited to those systems specifically mentioned or described herein. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 1 , a high level block diagram of a solar energy power generation system  100  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The solar energy power generation system  100  provides an encapsulated solution in which all components and fluids are fully contained within a single compact unit. The major subsystems of the solar energy power generation system  100  are a turbine and generator assembly  102  and a solar collector array  104  that can have one or more solar collectors (troughs)  106 . In one example, the turbine and generator assembly  102  weighs approximately 150 lbs and is approximately 4 ft×2 ft×2 ft, and the solar collector (trough)  106  weighs approximately 105 lbs and is approximately 4 ft×12 ft. The turbine and generator assembly  102  are connected to the one or more solar collectors (troughs)  106  with input  108  and output  110  hoses or pipes. A low power cable  112  (e.g., 5V) runs from the turbine and generator assembly  102  to the one or more solar collectors (troughs)  106 ). Power generated by the turbine and generator assembly  102  is provided to the home, building, business, electrical load or utility circuit via a power connection  114 . Note that various meters, relays, breakers, reverse power flow sensors and other monitoring/protection devices may be installed between the generator and the home, building, business, electrical load or utility circuit. The turbine and generator assembly  102  and the solar collector (troughs)  106  will be described in more detail below. Note that the number of solar collectors (troughs)  106  shown in  FIG. 1  is merely for illustration purposes and present invention is not limited to the number of solar collector shown. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a block diagram of a turbine and generator assembly  102  connected to solar collector (trough)  106  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The turbine and generator assembly  102  is contained within a weather resistant cabinet  200  suitable for ground or attic installations. The solar energy power generation system  100  can be controlled and monitored by user interface  202  (software) that allows remote control and monitoring of the system. The user interface  202  is not the code running on the controller  204  (e.g., Programmable Logic Controller). Instead, user interface  202  provides allows a user to track power consumption, power production, system diagnostics and other control/monitoring functions. The user interface  202  can be installed on any user device communicably coupled to the controller. For example, the user device may include a computer, a laptop, a PDA, a phone, a mobile communications device or other electronic device. The user device having user interface  202  can be communicably coupled to the controller  204  via a direct connection, a network connection, a USB connection, a wireless network, a wide area network or a combination thereof. 
     The solar collector  106  includes one or more support structures for securely mounting the solar collector  106  to a surface (not shown), a reflective parabolic trough for concentrating solar energy along a focal axis, one or more receiver tubes  206  attached to the reflective parabolic trough along the focal axis, a motor  208  operably connected to the reflective parabolic trough to rotate the reflective parabolic trough around the longitudinal axis, and a solar tracking device or circuit  210 . A typical installation will have six solar collectors  106 , although the exact number of solar collectors  106  will be determined by various design specifications, such as energy requirements, geographic location, physical constraints and other factors. 
     The weather resistant cabinet  200  provides protection and concealment of a fluid/vapor turbine  212  having a drive shaft  214 , a generator  216  connected to the drive shaft  214  of the fluid/vapor turbine  212 , a controller  204 , a pressure vessel  218  and a primer/boost pump  220 . The generator  216  and the fluid/vapor turbine  212  can be directly coupled or coupled through a transmission or gear assembly. Note that the fluid/vapor turbine  212  can be a Tesla engine, Sterling engine or an organic Rankine cycle steam turbine. The organic Rankine cycle steam turbine has numerous advantages including, but not limited to, its bladeless design that can extract energy from very high temperatures (fully vaporized fluids) to very low temperatures (fully saturated fluids) without damage. The fluid/vapor turbine  212 , pressure vessel  218  and primer/boost pump  220  are connected together and to the receiver tube(s)  206  with input  108  and output  110  hoses or pipes. A low power cable  112  (e.g., 5V) runs from the cabinet  200  to each solar collector  106  (typically in a daisy chain). Power generated by the generator  216  is provided to the home, building, business, electrical load or utility circuit via a power connection  114  (e.g., 480VAC (three phase), 240VAC (single phase), etc. Note that various meters, relays, breakers, reverse power flow sensors and other monitoring/protection devices may be installed between the generator and the home, building, business, electrical load or utility circuit. The controller  204  is connected to the motor  208 , the solar tracking device  210 , the fluid/vapor turbine  212  and the generator  216  to monitor and control the system. The controller  204  can be a PLC, PCB, computer or SCADA system. 
     In other words, the present invention provides a solar power system  100  that includes one or more solar collectors  106 , a solar tracking device  210 , a fluid/vapor turbine  212 , a generator  216  and a controller  204 . Each solar collector  106  includes (a) one or more support structures  404  for securely mounting the solar collector  106  to a surface, (b) a reflective parabolic trough  400  for concentrating solar energy along a focal axis and attached to the support structure(s)  404  to allow rotation of the reflective parabolic trough  400  around a longitudinal axis, (c) one or more receiver tubes  206  attached to the reflective parabolic trough  400  along the focal axis, and (d) a motor  208  operably connected to the reflective parabolic trough  400  to rotate the reflective parabolic trough  400  around the longitudinal axis. Each receiver tube  206  includes (i) a metal tube  804  having an inlet  318 , an outlet  302  and a solar absorption coating, and (ii) a transparent tube  802  having a first seal and a second seal to vacuum or hermetically seal the metal tube  804  between approximately the inlet  318  and the outlet  302  within the transparent tube  802 . The solar tracking device  210  has one or more sensors  500  to control the motor  208  to align each solar collector  106  to maximize the solar energy collected by the one or more receiver tubes  206 . The fluid/vapor turbine  212  has a drive shaft  214 , a fluid/vapor inlet  304  connected to the outlet  203  of the receiver tube(s)  206  and a fluid/vapor outlet  310  connected to the inlet of the receiver tube(s)  318 . The generator  216  is connected to the drive shaft  214  of the fluid/vapor turbine  212  and has one or more electrical output terminals  114 . The controller  204  is connected to the motor  208 , the solar tracking device  210 , the fluid/vapor turbine  212  and the generator  216  to monitor and control the system  100 . The controller  204  can also position each solar collector  106  to minimize damage in potentially damaging weather via on-site sensors or remote input from the National Weather Service or other alert system. For example, the controller  204  can utilize a storm mode and sleep cycles to position each collector  106  to minimize abrasions, damage and moisture collection during non-productive periods. 
     In one embodiment, six to eight solar collectors will be required for 10 kW output based on 4.45 square meters of surface per collector. For example, the specifications for a system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention are: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
             
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 Turbine/Generator 
                   
               
               
                 Output 
                 10 kW 
               
               
                 Input Pressure 
                 140 PISG 
               
               
                 Exhaust Pressure 
                 10 PSIG (Max) 
               
               
                 Inlet Temperature 
                 361° F. 
               
               
                 Outlet Temperature 
                 240° F. 
               
               
                 Steam Usage 
                 2700 LB/HR 
               
               
                 Inlet Pipe (OD) 
                 One inch 
               
               
                 Conversion Rates 
               
               
                 1 BTU = 1.06 kJ 
               
               
                 1 lb = 0.4536 kg 
               
               
                 Solar Collector Calculations 
               
               
                 Energy from Sun 
                 1,000 W/m 2   
               
               
                 (clear summer day) 
               
               
                 Parabolic Trough 
                 4 ft × 12 ft = 4.46 m 2   
               
               
                 Collector Efficiency 
                 0.68 
               
               
                 Power from Collector 
                 1000 × 4.46 × 0.68 = 3.033 kW per trough 
               
            
           
           
               
            
               
                 Six Troughs = 18.197 kW of energy available from the Sun 
               
               
                 Steam Characteristics 
               
               
                 Total heat of steam at 240° F. = 1160 BTU/lb 
               
               
                 Total heat of steam at 361° F. = 1194 BTU/lb 
               
               
                 Change in heat/lb = 34 BTU/lb = 36 kJ/lb = 79.36 kJ/kg 
               
               
                 Required turbine steam usage: 2700 lb/hr = 1224.7 kg/hr = 0.340 kg/sec 
               
               
                 Steam provided by the collector = 3.033 kW/79.36 kJ/kg = 0.038 kg/sec 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     The controller provides a wide range of controls and functionality, such as:
         Solar Panel
           Calibration   Tracking
               One Axis   
               Shutdown
               Storms   Malfunction   
               
           Turbine Control
           RPM
               Input and Output Pressures   Operational Speed   
               Malfunction   Shutdown   Log/History   
           Transmission Control (optional depending on the turbine/generator specifications)
           Engage   Disengage   Malfunction   Shutdown   Log/History   
           Generator Control
           Speed   Output   Temperature   Shutdown   
           Transfer Switch Control
           Input Current   Output Current   Status   Log/History   
           System Management
           System Control   Error Management   Sub-System—Enable/Disengage   Remote Access/Phone home   Heartbeat Monitor   History
 
Other control mechanisms, sensors and functionality can be added to the system. Eight solar collector units can occupy a space less than or equal to 700 sqft and provide approximately 14 watts/sqft.
   
               

     Now referring to  FIG. 3 , a block diagram showing the valve and piping layout  300  for a solar energy power generation system  100  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The input hose or pipe  108  connects the outlet  302  of the receiver tube(s)  206  to the fluid/vapor inlet  304  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210 . A temperature and pressure probe or sensor  306  and a first operating pressure modulation valve (2-way)  308  are connected between the outlet  302  of the receiver tube(s)  206  and the fluid/vapor inlet  304  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210 . The fluid/vapor outlet  310  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210  is connected to the pressure vessel  212 . A back flow prevention valve  312  is connected between the fluid/vapor outlet  310  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210  and the pressure vessel  212 . A secondary line  314  connects the pressure vessel  212  to the input hose or pipe  108  between the temperature and pressure probe or sensor  306  and the first operating pressure modulation valve (2-way)  308 . A third operating pressure modulation valve (2-way)  316  on the secondary line  314  is located between the pressure vessel  212  and the input hose or pipe  108 . The output hose or pipe  110  connects the inlet  318  of the receiver tube(s)  206  to the boost pump  220  which is connected to pressure vessel  212 . A second operating pressure modulation valve  320  is connected between the inlet  318  of the receiver tube(s)  206  and the boost pump  220  to control flow into the system and stop the flow in an emergency (Emergency Shutdown). Arrows show the flow of the fluid/vapor. The pressure vessel  212  has a pressure relief valve  310  and may also have other sensors/probes, such as temperature, pressure, fluid level, etc. Temperature and/or pressure sensors/probes can be installed at various monitoring points throughout the system  100 , such as near the receiver tubes  206 , the fluid/vapor turbine  210 , the pressure vessel  212 , etc. The temperature and pressure probe/sensors (e.g.,  306 ) are communicably coupled to the controller  204 . A RPM sensor (not shown) is attached to the drive shaft  214  and communicably coupled to the controller  204 . In one embodiment, the system  300  operates at approximately  140  PSI. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , a diagram of a solar collector  106  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment of the present invention, the reflective parabolic trough  400  is made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy and has an aperture of approximately four feet, a length of approximately 12 feet (not including mounting pylons), a rim angle to approximately 82.5 degrees, a focal length of approximately 1.14 feet and a surface area facing the focal axis of 62.8 square feet. The solar collector  106  is roof mountable and weights approximately 105 pounds. The solar collector  106  includes adjustable brackets  402  and support pylons  404  (see  FIG. 9 ). Each solar collector  106  has two receiver tubes  206   a  and  206   b  that are approximately six feet long (each). They are mounted to the collector with three adjustable mounting brackets  402 . The brackets  402  allow for three axis of alignment for the receiver tubes  206   a  and  206   b.  The surface of the reflective parabolic trough  400  facing the focal axis is coated with a reflective material. 
     For example, the curve dimensions of a parabolic reflector  400  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention can be: 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                   
               
               
                 Y (ft) 
                 X (ft) 
                 Y (in) 
                 X (in) 
                 Focal Point (ft) 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 0.877 
                 2.000 
                 10.526 
                 24 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.806 
                 1.917 
                 9.667 
                 23 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.737 
                 1.833 
                 8.845 
                 22 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.672 
                 1.750 
                 8.059 
                 21 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.609 
                 1.667 
                 7.310 
                 20 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.550 
                 1.583 
                 6.597 
                 19 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.493 
                 1.500 
                 5.921 
                 18 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.440 
                 1.420 
                 5.281 
                 17 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.390 
                 1.330 
                 4.678 
                 16 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.343 
                 1.250 
                 4.112 
                 15 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.298 
                 1.167 
                 3.582 
                 14 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.257 
                 1.083 
                 3.088 
                 13 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.219 
                 1.000 
                 2.632 
                 12 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.184 
                 0.917 
                 2.211 
                 11 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.152 
                 0.833 
                 1.827 
                 10 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.123 
                 0.750 
                 1.480 
                 9 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.097 
                 0.667 
                 1.170 
                 8 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.075 
                 0.583 
                 0.895 
                 7 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.055 
                 0.500 
                 0.658 
                 6 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.038 
                 0.417 
                 0.457 
                 5 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.024 
                 0.333 
                 0.292 
                 4 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.014 
                 0.250 
                 0.164 
                 3 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.006 
                 0.167 
                 0.073 
                 2 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.002 
                 0.083 
                 0.018 
                 1 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.000 
                 0.000 
                 0.000 
                 0 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.002 
                 −0.083 
                 0.018 
                 −1 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.006 
                 −0.167 
                 0.073 
                 −2 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.014 
                 −0.250 
                 0.164 
                 −3 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.024 
                 −0.333 
                 0.282 
                 −4 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.038 
                 −0.417 
                 0.457 
                 −5 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.055 
                 −0.500 
                 0.658 
                 −6 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.075 
                 −0.583 
                 0.895 
                 −7 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.097 
                 −0.667 
                 1.170 
                 −8 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.123 
                 −0.750 
                 1.480 
                 −9 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.152 
                 −0.833 
                 1.827 
                 −10 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.184 
                 −0.917 
                 2.211 
                 −11 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.219 
                 −1.000 
                 2.632 
                 −12 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.257 
                 −1.083 
                 3.088 
                 −13 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.298 
                 −1.167 
                 3.582 
                 −14 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.343 
                 −1.250 
                 4.112 
                 −15 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.390 
                 −1.330 
                 4.678 
                 −16 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.440 
                 −1.420 
                 5.281 
                 −17 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.493 
                 −1.500 
                 5.921 
                 −18 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.550 
                 −1.583 
                 6.597 
                 −19 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.609 
                 −1.667 
                 7.310 
                 −20 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.672 
                 −1.750 
                 8.059 
                 −21 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.737 
                 −1.833 
                 8.845 
                 −22 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.806 
                 −1.917 
                 9.667 
                 −23 
                 1.14 
               
               
                 0.877 
                 −2.000 
                 10.526 
                 −24 
                 1.14 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     Now referring to  FIGS. 5A and 5B , diagrams of a solar tracking device or circuit  210  mounted on the reflective parabolic trough  400  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention are shown. The solar tracking device or circuit  210  includes one or more sensors. In this embodiment, the one or more sensors include three or more photosensitive diodes  500  disposed on the reflective parabolic trough  400  such that when the reflective parabolic through  400  is properly aligned: (a) at least a first of the photosensitive diodes  500   a  is positioned within a center  504  of a shadow  502  cast by the receiver tube(s)  206 , (b) a least a second of the photosensitive diodes  500   b  is positioned within and near a first edge  506  of the shadow  502  cast by the receiver tube(s)  206 , and (c) a least a third of the photosensitive diodes  500   c  is positioned within and near a second edge  508  of the shadow  502  cast by the receiver tube(s)  206 . The solar tracking device  210  can position the solar collector  106  at a previously recorded time-based position whenever the one or more sensors  500  do not provide a position to maximize the solar energy collected by the receiver tube(s)  206 . As a result, the solar tracking device aligns each solar collector to maximize the solar energy collected by the receiver tube(s) regardless of weather conditions. 
     In other words, to track the sun, one diode  500   a  is placed in the shadow of the receiver tub and two more  500   b  and  500   c  on each edge. The solar tracking device or circuit  210  measures the difference in light intensity measured by the photosensitive diodes  500  and if the diodes in sunlight (e.g.,  500   b  or  500   c ) move to the shadow  502 , the tracking motor  209  (e.g., stepper motor) adjusts the position of the reflective parabolic trough  400  to move the diodes (e.g.,  500   b  or  500   c ) back into sunlight. If this cannot be achieved within a pre-defined number of steps, the solar tracking device or circuit  210  will position the reflective parabolic trough  400  to a prior days position for the given time slot. As a result, the solar tracking device  210  aligns each solar collector  106  to be in the correct position to maximize the solar energy collected by the receiver tube(s)  206  regardless of weather conditions. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , a diagram of some structural details of a reflective parabolic trough  400  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The structural details of the reflective parabolic trough  400  includes a central support tube  600 , three or more support ribs  602  attached to the central support tube  600  to provide a parabolic shape, a support stringer  604  attached between the support ribs  602  at or near an end of the support ribs  602 , and a metallic sheet (not shown) attached to the support ribs  604  to form the parabolic shape. As shown, the trough is constructed with five support ribs  602  spaced 36 inches apart, six support stringers  604 , and a central support tube  600  on which the reflective parabolic trough  400  rotates. Note that the present invention is not limited to the specific support ribs  602 , support stringers  604 , or spacing shown. The frame is covered with a 20 gauge aluminum skin which the reflective material is bonded to. Other materials and thicknesses can also be used. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 7 , a diagram of a tracking motor assembly  208  for rotating a reflective parabolic trough  400  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. As shown in this embodiment of the present invention, the reflective parabolic trough  400  rotation is controlled by a gear box assembly driven by an electric stepper motor. Alternatively, a worm gear assembly can be used. The gear box (or worm gear assembly) and electric stepper motor are mounted to one of the pylons  404 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 8A and 8B , diagrams of a receiver tube  206  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention are shown. The receiver tube  206  is an evacuated tube approximately six feet in length with a clamp and gasket style connector  800  extending from each end. The flanged and grooved end facilitates an O-ring and clamp. A threaded connector can also be used. The receiver tube  206  has an exterior layer (transparent tube)  802  that is constructed from borosilicate glass having an outer diameter of approximately 2.3 inches. The inner pipe  804  is a ¾ inch metal pipe (aluminum or an aluminum alloy metal tube) coated with a solar absorption coating applied to the exterior surface of the entire pipe. The inner pipe  804  may or may not have one or more copper heat fins soldered to it. The receiver tube  206  is sealed to the fluid pipe  804  in a manner which allows a vacuum to be applied to the interior space between the exterior layer  802  and the inner pipe  804  thereby creating an evacuated tube. In one embodiment, each end has a ¾ inch NPT threaded end approximately ¾ inch past the formed hex nut. The hex nut is formed or welded to the inner pipe  804 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 9 , a diagram of a support structure  404  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. Each support structure  404  includes a base plate  900  used to secure the solar collector  106  to the surface, a mounting block  902  for connection to the reflective parabolic trough  400 , and a support  904  disposed between the base plate  900  and the mounting block  902 . Note that an angle between the base plate  900  and the surface is adjustable. As shown, each mounting pylon consists of two major parts: (a) Base Plate  900 ; and (b) Mounting pole  904 . The two components ( 900  and  904 ) are held together with a common bolt (not shown). With respect to the trough mounting block  902 , the hole in the center supports the central support tube  600  and is lined with a Teflon strip which acts as a bearing surface. The central tube  904  is a 1.5 inch round tube approximately 24-26 inches long with bolt holes as the connection point of the two parts. The base plate  900  is used to fasten the collector to the roof or ground. The angle of the plate  900  to the connector (angle “A”) is determined by the pitch of the roof or the slope of the ground. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10A-10C , various diagrams of the housing or cabinet  200  for some of the components are shown in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 10A  shows an example of the housing or cabinet  200  for the turbine and generator assembly  102  that is weatherproof and suitable for outdoor or attic installation. The housing or cabinet  200  includes the input  108  and output  110  hoses or pipes, the low power cable  112  that goes to the solar collectors  106 , and the power connection  144  that provides the power generated by the generator  216  to the home, building, business, electrical load or utility circuit. The power connection  114  may also include a connection to the user interface  202 . 
       FIGS. 10B and 10C  show a 3D perspective view and a side view, respectively, of the turbine and generator assembly  102  in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The major components are shown, such as the fluid/vapor turbine  212 , generator  216 , pressure vessel  218 , inlet  108  and outlet  110 , along with the internal bracing, piping, valves, heat exchangers, pumps, and other items. Various circuit boards (collectively the controller  204 ) are also shown, such as sun tracker board  1000 , system control board  1002  and motor control board  1004 . 
     Now referring to  FIG. 11 , a block diagram showing the valve and piping layout  300  for a solar energy power generation system  1100  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is shown. A first input hose or pipe  108   a  connects the outlet  302  of the receiver tube(s)  206  to a first operating pressure modulation valve (3-way)  1102 . A first temperature and pressure probe or sensor  306   a  is connected proximate to the output  302  of the receiver tube(s)  206 , meaning that the temperature and pressure probe or sensor  306   a  can be integrated into the receiver tube(s)  206 , or attached to the output  302  or attached to the input hose or pipe  108   a.  A second input hose or pipe  108   b  connects the first operating pressure modulation valve (3-way)  1102  to the fluid/vapor inlet  304  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210 . A second temperature and pressure probe or sensor  306   b  is connected proximate to the fluid/vapor inlet  304  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210 , meaning that the second temperature and pressure probe or sensor  306   b  can be integrated into the fluid/vapor turbine  210 , or attached to the fluid/vapor inlet  304  or attached to the input hose or pipe  108   b.  The fluid/vapor outlet  310  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210  is connected to the pressure vessel  212 . A first pressure probe  1104   a  is connected between the fluid/vapor outlet  310  of the fluid/vapor turbine  210  and the pressure vessel  212 . Alternatively, the first pressure probe  1104  can be integrated into the fluid/vapor turbine  210  or the pressure vessel  212 . A secondary line  314  connects the pressure vessel  212  to the first operating pressure modulation valve (3-way)  1102 . A second pressure probe  1104   b  on the secondary line  314  is located between the pressure vessel  212  and the first operating pressure modulation valve (3-way)  1102 . Alternatively, the second pressure probe  1104   b  can be integrated into or connected directly to the pressure vessel  212  or connected directly to the first operating pressure modulation valve (3-way)  1102 . A boost pump  220  is connected in parallel with an anti-siphon valve  1106 , both of which are connected to the pressure vessel  212  with a first output hose or pipe  110   a,  and to a second operating pressure modulation valve (2-way)  320  with a second output hose or pipe  110   b.  The second operating pressure modulation valve  320  controls flow into the system and stops the flow in an emergency (Emergency Shutdown). A third output hose or pipe  110   c  connects the inlet  318  of the receiver tube(s)  206  to the second operating pressure modulation valve (2-way)  320 . A temperature probe or sensor  1108  is connected proximate to the input  318  of the receiver tube(s)  206 , meaning that the temperature probe or sensor  1108  can be integrated into the receiver tube(s)  206 , or attached to the input  318  or attached to the third output hose or pipe  108   c.  Arrows show the flow of the fluid/vapor. The pressure vessel  212  has a pressure relief valve  310  and may also have other sensors/probes, such as temperature, pressure, fluid level  1110 , etc. Additional temperature and/or pressure sensors/probes can be installed at various monitoring points throughout the system  1100 . The temperature and/or pressure probe/sensors (e.g.,  306 ,  1104 ,  1108 , etc.) are communicably coupled to the controller  204 . A RPM sensor  1112  is attached to the drive shaft  214  and communicably coupled to the controller  204 . In one embodiment, the system  1100  operates at approximately 140 PSI. 
     A bladeless turbine, such as fluid/vapor turbine  212 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention will now be described in reference to  FIGS. 12-15 . This design is provided as an example of a suitable fluid/vapor turbine  212  for the solar power generation system previously described. The bladeless turbine described in  FIGS. 12-15  is not limited to use in solar energy systems and can be used in many types of systems, such as biomass combustion, geothermal heat, industrial waste heat recovery (e.g., recovering heat from oil field flaring), and other “green” or semi-“green” systems. Moreover, the bladeless turbine can be used with water, steam, hydrocarbons and refrigerants. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the bladeless turbine in accordance with the present invention is not limited to those systems specifically mentioned or described herein. Finally, any details or components not shown in  FIGS. 12-15  that are required to replicate the fluid/vapor turbine in accordance with the present invention will be well known or apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the following FIGURES and description, and are not necessary for a complete understanding of the inventive aspects of the bladeless turbine. 
     More specifically,  FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C  are diagrams showing various views and details of a turbine case  1200  for the bladeless turbine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13C  are diagrams of the front, intermediate and rear discs, respectively, for the bladeless turbine in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIGS. 14A and 14B  are diagrams of an inlet nozzle and a gasket in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 15  is a diagram of a turbine/generator common shaft in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 
     The turbine case  1200  is a metal housing having a main housing  1202  ( FIG. 12A ), a cover  1204  ( FIG. 12B ) and a gasket  1206  ( FIG. 12C ) disposed between the main housing  1202  (also called a shell) and the cover  1204  (also called a lid). The turbine case  1200  surrounds and completely encases the turbine discs  1300  ( FIG. 13A ),  1302  ( FIG. 13B ) and  1304  ( FIG. 13C ). The turbine case  1200  is designed to contain the flow of fluids and gases from the inlet nozzle  1400  ( FIG. 14A ), around, over, and through the turbine discs  1300  ( FIG. 13A ),  1302  ( FIG. 13B ) and  1304  ( FIG. 13C ) to the exhaust port  1208 . Additionally, integral to the turbine case  1200  is the ability to mount the bladeless to a frame, housing, or other fixture. Part of the case design is the labyrinth seal which prevents the gases from escaping from between the center rotating shaft  1500  ( FIG. 15 ) and the case  1200  itself. More specifically and will be apparent from the description below, the labyrinth seal is formed by shape and positioning of the turbine discs, the main housing, the case and the drive shaft. The turbine case  1200  can be easily manufactured at high volume and low cost. No additional seals are needed or exterior mounting fixtures to hold the turbine to a frame or fixture. Due to its compact size (longer horizontal axis for the same overall surface area) when compared to other turbine disc designs, it can fit into a relatively small space. 
     As shown in  FIG. 12A , the main housing  1202  includes an annular cavity  1208  in which the turbine discs  1300  (rear),  1302  (intermediate) and  1304  (front) are free to rotate, one or more holes  1210  to accommodate a fixed nozzle  1500 , and a center through hole  1212  for the drive end  1502  of the shaft  1500  to extend through for connection to the generator  216 . As shown, the main housing  1202  includes two holes  1212   a  and  1212   b  oriented on opposite sides of the main housing  1202 . The radius (e.g., 3.665 in) of the annular cavity  1208  is slightly larger than the radius (e.g., 3.625 in) of the turbine discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304 . The bottom of the annular cavity  1214  includes a first annular recess  1216  to receive a portion  1312  of the rear disc  1300 , and a second annular recess  1218  to receive a ridge  1508  on the annular disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . The second annular recess  1218  also includes an annular groove  1220  to receive an annular ridge or ring  1508  on the annular disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . The first annular recess  1216  has a slightly smaller radius (e.g., 3.540 in) than the radius (e.g., 3.665 in) the annular cavity  1208 . The second annular recess  1218  has a slightly larger radius (e.g., 0.968 in) than the radius (e.g., 0.9375 in) of the annular disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 12B , the cover  1204  includes an exhaust outlet (threaded hole)  1222  for connection to the hoses or pipes that lead to the pressure vessel  218 , a set of exhaust holes  1224  positioned proximate to the perimeter of the exhaust outlet  1222 , and a recess or opening  1226  for the exhaust end  1504  of the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of exhaust holes  1224  comprise eight ellipse-shaped or oval-shaped holes equally spaced around the shaft  1500  at a fixed distance from the centerline  1228  of the housing  1200 . The cover  1204  also includes a first annular recess  1230  to receive a portion of the front disc  1304 , and a second annular recess  1232  to receive an annular ridge or ring  1330  on the front disc  1304 . The first annular recess  1230  has a slightly smaller radius (e.g., 3.540 in) than the radius (e.g., 3.665 in) the annular cavity  1214 . The second annular recess  1232  has a slightly larger radius (e.g., 0.1.360 in) than the radius (e.g., 1.320 in) of the annular ridge or ring  1330  on the front disc  1304 . A portion of the cover  1234  extends into the annular cavity  1214  and the cover  1204  is affixed to the main housing  1202  using standard hardware and gasket  1206 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13A , the rear disc  1300  includes an opening  1306  for the shaft  1500 , a set of middle holes  1308  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a set of outer holes  1310  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a smaller diameter portion  1312 , and a raised annular portion  1314  around the opening  1306 . The opening  1306  includes a keyway  1316  for rotationally securing the rear disc  1300  to the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of middle holes  1308  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another within a middle portion of the rear disc  1300  (e.g., at a radius of 2.003 in from the centerline  1228 ), and the set of outer holes  1310  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another proximate to a perimeter of the rear disc  1300  (e.g., at a radius of about 3.344 in from the centerline  1228 ). Note that a different number, sizing and spacing (e.g., 15° to 60°) can be used. The smaller diameter portion  1312  fits into the first annular recess  1216  of the main housing  1202 . The raised annular portion  1314  contacts the disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 13B , the intermediate disc  1302  includes an opening  1306  for the shaft  1500 , a set of exhaust ports  1318  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , and a set of middle holes  1320  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a set of outer holes  1322  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 . The opening  1306  includes a keyway  1316  for rotationally securing the rear disc  1300  to the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of middle holes  1320  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees) (30°) from one another within a middle portion of the intermediate disc  1302  (e.g., at a radius of 2.003 in from the centerline  1228 ), and the set of outer holes  1322  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another proximate to a perimeter of the intermediate disc  1302  (e.g., at a radius of about 3.344 in from the centerline  1228 ). Note that a different number, sizing and spacing (e.g., 15° to 60°) can be used. The set of exhaust ports  1318  comprise eight ellipse-shaped or oval-shaped holes offset from one another by approximately forty-five degrees (45°) at a equal distance (e.g., 0.969 in) from the centerline  1228 . The first exhaust port  1318   a  is offset from the keyway  1316  by approximately twenty-two and one-half degrees (22.5°). Note that a different number, offset (e.g., 15° to 30°), sizing and spacing (e.g., 30° to 60°) can be used. The pattern, size, and location of the discs in relationship to the turbine shaft  1500  is aerodynamically designed to create a turbulent free flow of exhaust gases from the turbine discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304  to the exhaust pipe. The design has a higher flow rate and therefore is less restrictive than other designs. This design (better flow rate) facilities the turbine having a higher adiabatic efficiency. Note that more than one intermediate disc  1302  can be used. 
     As shown in  FIG. 13C , the front disc  1304  includes an opening  1306  for the shaft  1500 , a set of middle holes  1324  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a set of outer holes  1326  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a smaller diameter portion  1328 , and a raised annular ridge or ring  1330  around the opening  1306 . The opening  1306  includes a keyway  1316  for rotationally securing the rear disc  1300  to the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of middle holes  1324  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another within a middle portion of the front disc  1304  (e.g., at a radius of 2.003 in from the centerline  1228 ), and the set of outer holes  1326  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another proximate to a perimeter of the front disc  1304  (e.g., at a radius of about 3.344 in from the centerline  1228 ). Note that a different number, sizing and spacing (e.g., 15° to 60°) can be used. The smaller diameter portion  1328  fits into the first annular recess  1230  of the cover  1204 . The raised annular ridge or ring  1330  fits into the second annular recess  1232  of the cover  1204 . The set of exhaust ports  1318  comprise eight ellipse-shaped or oval-shaped holes offset from one another by approximately forty-five degrees (45°) at a equal distance (e.g., 0.969 in) from the centerline  1228 . The first exhaust port  1318   a  is offset from the keyway  1316  by approximately twenty-two and one-half degrees (22.5°). Note that a different number, offset (e.g., 15° to 30°), sizing and spacing (e.g., 30° to 60°) can be used. The pattern, size, and location of the turbine discs in relationship to the turbine shaft  1500  is aerodynamically designed to create a turbulent free flow of exhaust gases from the turbine discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304  to the exhaust pipe. The design has a higher flow rate and therefore is less restrictive than other designs. This design (better flow rate) facilities the turbine having a higher adiabatic efficiency. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14A , the inlet nozzle  1400  is the pattern, shape and size of the cavity created within the block of material (metal or ceramic) where the inlet pipe connects on one end  1402  of the block and the opposite end  1404  is mounted to the turbine case  1202 . The inlet nozzle controls the pattern, pressure, and distribution of the fluid and vapor across the turbine discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304 . This design is optimized for the flow of two phase steam when used with a turbine disc design. This optimal shape allows the turbine to operate at peak performance. When combined with the high flow rate exhaust design, the disc based turbine efficiencies can be equal to or greater than 50% (preferably in excess of 65%) when compared to 18%-20% of other disc based turbine designs. As shown, the inlet nozzle jet  1406  is aligned at a tangent of approximately fifty-two and one-half degrees) (52.5°) and comprises a wedge-shaped slit  1408  having an angle of approximately forty degrees (e.g., 39.861°) that opens into the annular cavity  1208  parallel to the centerline  1228 . Other alignments (e.g., 50° to 55°) and angles can be used.  FIG. 14B  shows the gasket  1402  used to mount the insert portion  1410  and O-ring of the inlet nozzle  1400  in the hole  1210  in the main casing  1202 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 15 , the turbine and generator common shaft  1500  is a single rotational shaft supporting both the rotating discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304  in the fluid/vapor turbine  212  and the rotating parts of a switch reluctance generator  216 . The exhaust end  1504  of the shaft  1500  is supported by a bearing (not shown) located in the turbine case  1200 . The drive end  1502  of the shaft  1500  is supported by a bearing (not shown) located in the generator case  216 . Designed on the shaft is the labyrinth seal used on both the turbine  1200  and generator  216  cases. By using a single shaft  1500  for both a turbine  212  and generator  216  assembly, the total numbers of parts are reduced. No interim connection shaft or coupling is required and the total number of bearings is reduced from four to two. Additionally the over-all space required is reduced. As previously described, the shaft  1500  includes a keyway  1510 , an annular disc stop  1506  and an annular ridge or ring  1508  on the annular disc stop  1506 . 
     A bladeless turbine, such as fluid/vapor turbine  212 , in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention will now be described in reference to  FIGS. 16-20B . This design is provided as an example of a suitable fluid/vapor turbine  212  for the solar power generation system previously described. The bladeless turbine described in  FIGS. 16-20B  is not limited to use in solar energy systems and can be used in many types of systems, such as biomass combustion, geothermal heat, industrial waste heat recovery (e.g., recovering heat from oil field flaring), and other “green” or semi-“green” systems. Moreover, the bladeless turbine can be used with water, steam, hydrocarbons and refrigerants. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the bladeless turbine in accordance with the present invention is not limited to those systems specifically mentioned or described herein. Finally, any details or components not shown in  FIGS. 16-20B  that are required to replicate the fluid/vapor turbine in accordance with the present invention will be well known or apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the following FIGURES and description, and are not necessary for a complete understanding of the inventive aspects of the bladeless turbine. 
     Now referring to  FIG. 16 , an exploded diagram of a fluid/vapor turbine  212  ( 1600 ) in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The fluid/vapor turbine  212  ( 1600 ) includes three or more turbine discs  1300  ( FIG. 18A ),  1302  ( FIG. 18B ) and  1304  ( FIG. 18C ) disposed within a main housing  1202 . Each turbine disc has a center opening, a first set of holes substantially equally spaced from one another along a first radius from a centerline, a second set of holes substantially equally spaced from one another along a second radius from the centerline, and two or more of the turbine discs have a set of exhaust ports positioned annularly around the center opening. The fluid/vapor turbine  212  ( 1600 ) also includes a cover  1204  and one or more fluid/vapor inlets oriented to direct a fluid/vapor onto an outer portion of the three or more turbine discs  1300 ,  1302 ,  1304 . A connector, injector, jet or nozzle  1610  is disposed within each fluid/vapor inlet and secured to the main housing  1202 . A drive shaft  1500  passes through the center openings of the three or more turbine discs  1300 ,  1302 ,  1304  and attached to the three or more turbine discs  1300 ,  1302 ,  1304 . The drive shaft  1500  is positioned within the main housing  1202  along the centerline, free to rotate within the case, and extends through the main housing  1202 . A fluid/vapor outlet is disposed in the cover  1204  and aligned with the centerline. A set of exhaust holes are proximate to and connected to the fluid/vapor outlet and are positioned annularly around the drive shaft  1500 . A first gasket  1206  is disposed between the main housing  1202  and the cover  1204 . A bearing cover  1602  is attached to the main housing  1202  and aligned with the center through hole. A bearing cover gasket  1604  is disposed between the main housing  1202  and the bearing cover  1602 . One or more sets of first bearings  1606  are disposed within the bearing cover  1602  that support the drive shaft  1500 . One or more sets of second bearings  1608  are disposed within the cover  1204  of the main housing  1202  that support the drive shaft  1500 . 
     The turbine case is a metal housing having a main housing  1202  ( FIGS. 17A-1, 17A-2, 17B-1, 17B-2 ), a cover  1204  ( FIGS. 17C-1, 17C-2, 17C-3, 17D-1, 17D-2 ) and a gasket  1206  ( FIG. 17E ) disposed between the main housing  1202  (also called a shell) and the cover  1204  (also called a lid). The turbine case surrounds and completely encases the turbine discs  1300  ( FIGS. 18A-1, 18A-2 ),  1302  ( FIGS. 18B-1, 18B-2 ) and  1304  ( FIGS. 18C-1, 18C-2 ). The turbine case is designed to contain the flow of fluids and gases from the inlet nozzle  1400  ( FIG. 14A ), around, over, and through the turbine discs  1300  ( FIG. 13A ),  1302  ( FIG. 13B ) and  1304  ( FIG. 13C ) to the exhaust port  1208 . Additionally, integral to the turbine case  1200  is the ability to mount the bladeless to a frame, housing, or other fixture. Part of the case design is the labyrinth seal which prevents the gases from escaping from between the center rotating shaft  1500  ( FIGS. 19A, 19B ) and the case itself. More specifically and will be apparent from the description below, the labyrinth seal is formed by shape and positioning of the turbine discs, the main housing, the case and the drive shaft. The turbine case can be easily manufactured at high volume and low cost. No additional seals are needed or exterior mounting fixtures to hold the turbine to a frame or fixture. Due to its compact size (longer horizontal axis for the same overall surface area) when compared to other turbine disc designs, it can fit into a relatively small space. 
       FIGS. 17A-1, 17A-2, 17B-1 and 17B-2  are diagrams of a turbine main housing  1202  for the fluid/vapor turbine  1600  shown in  FIG. 16 . The main housing  1202  includes an annular cavity  1208  in which the turbine discs  1300  (rear),  1302  (intermediate) and  1304  (front) are free to rotate, one or more fluid/vapor inlets  1210 , and a center through hole  1212  for the drive end  1502  of the shaft  1500  to extend through for connection to the generator  216 . As shown, the main housing  1202  includes two holes  1212   a  and  1212   b  oriented on opposite sides of the main housing  1202 . The diameter (e.g., 7.32 in) of the annular cavity  1208  is slightly larger than the diameter (e.g., 7.25 in) of the turbine discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304 . The bottom of the annular cavity  1214  includes a first annular recess  1216  to receive a portion  1312  of the rear disc  1300 , and a second annular recess  1218  to receive a ridge  1508  on the annular disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . The second annular recess  1218  also includes an annular groove  1220  to receive an annular ridge or ring  1508  on the annular disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . The first annular recess  1216  has a slightly smaller radius (e.g., 3.540 in) than the radius (e.g., 3.665 in) the annular cavity  1208 . The second annular recess  1218  has a slightly larger radius (e.g., 0.968 in) than the radius (e.g., 0.9375 in) of the annular disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . 
       FIGS. 17C-1, 17C-2, 17C-3, 17D-1 and 17D-2  are diagrams of a turbine cover  1204  for the fluid/vapor turbine  1600  shown in  FIG. 16 . The cover  1204  includes an exhaust outlet (threaded hole)  1222  for connection to the hoses or pipes that lead to the pressure vessel  218 , a set of exhaust holes  1224  positioned proximate to the perimeter of the exhaust outlet  1222 , and a recess or opening  1226  for the exhaust end  1504  of the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of exhaust holes  1224  comprise eight ellipse-shaped or oval-shaped holes equally spaced around the shaft  1500  at a fixed distance from the centerline  1228  of the housing  1200 . The cover  1204  also includes a first annular recess  1230  to receive a portion of the front disc  1304 , and a second annular recess  1232  to receive an annular ridge or ring  1330  on the front disc  1304 . The first annular recess  1230  has a slightly smaller radius (e.g., 3.540 in) than the radius (e.g., 3.665 in) the annular cavity  1214 . The second annular recess  1232  has a slightly larger radius (e.g., 0.1.360 in) than the radius (e.g., 1.320 in) of the annular ridge or ring  1330  on the front disc  1304 . A portion of the cover  1234  extends into the annular cavity  1214  and the cover  1204  is affixed to the main housing  1202  using standard hardware and gasket  1206 .  FIG. 17E  is a diagram of a turbine cover gasket  1206  for the fluid/vapor turbine  1600  shown in  FIG. 16 . 
       FIGS. 18A-1, 18A-2, 18B-1, 18B-2, 18C-1 and 18C-2  are diagrams of the rear  1300 , intermediate  1302  and front  1304  discs, respectively, for the fluid/vapor turbine  1600  shown in  FIG. 16 . As shown in  FIGS. 18A-1 and 18A-2 , the rear disc  1300  includes an opening  1306  for the shaft  1500 , a set of middle holes  1308  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a set of outer holes  1310  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a smaller diameter portion  1312 , and a raised annular portion  1314  around the opening  1306 . The opening  1306  includes a keyway  1316  for rotationally securing the rear disc  1300  to the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of middle holes  1308  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another within a middle portion of the rear disc  1300  (e.g., at a radius of 2.003 in from the centerline  1228 ), and the set of outer holes  1310  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another proximate to a perimeter of the rear disc  1300  (e.g., at a radius of about 3.344 in from the centerline  1228 ). Note that a different number, sizing and spacing (e.g., 15° to 60°) can be used. The smaller diameter portion  1312  fits into the first annular recess  1216  of the main housing  1202 . The raised annular portion  1314  contacts the disc stop  1506  of the shaft  1500 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 18B-1 and 18B-2 , the intermediate disc  1302  includes an opening  1306  for the shaft  1500 , a set of exhaust ports  1318  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , and a set of middle holes  1320  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a set of outer holes  1322  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 . The opening  1306  includes a keyway  1316  for rotationally securing the rear disc  1300  to the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of middle holes  1320  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another within a middle portion of the intermediate disc  1302  (e.g., at a radius of 2.003 in from the centerline  1228 ), and the set of outer holes  1322  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another proximate to a perimeter of the intermediate disc  1302  (e.g., at a radius of about 3.344 in from the centerline  1228 ). Note that a different number, sizing and spacing (e.g., 15° to 60°) can be used. The set of exhaust ports  1318  comprise eight ellipse-shaped or oval-shaped holes offset from one another by approximately forty-five degrees (45°) at a equal distance (e.g., 0.969 in) from the centerline  1228 . The first exhaust port  1318   a  is offset from the keyway  1316  by approximately twenty-two and one-half degrees (22.5°). Note that a different number, offset (e.g., 15° to 30°), sizing and spacing (e.g., 30° to 60°) can be used. The pattern, size, and location of the discs in relationship to the turbine shaft  1500  is aerodynamically designed to create a turbulent free flow of exhaust gases from the turbine discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304  to the exhaust pipe. The design has a higher flow rate and therefore is less restrictive than other designs. This design (better flow rate) facilities the turbine having a higher adiabatic efficiency. Note that more than one intermediate disc  1302  can be used. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 18C-1 and 18C-2 , the front disc  1304  includes an opening  1306  for the shaft  1500 , a set of middle holes  1324  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a set of outer holes  1326  positioned annularly around the opening  1306 , a smaller diameter portion  1328 , and a raised annular ridge or ring  1330  around the opening  1306 . The opening  1306  includes a keyway  1316  for rotationally securing the rear disc  1300  to the shaft  1500 . As shown, the set of middle holes  1324  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another within a middle portion of the front disc  1304  (e.g., at a radius of 2.003 in from the centerline  1228 ), and the set of outer holes  1326  comprises twelve holes equally spaced approximately thirty degrees (30°) from one another proximate to a perimeter of the front disc  1304  (e.g., at a radius of about 3.344 in from the centerline  1228 ). Note that a different number, sizing and spacing (e.g., 15° to 60°) can be used. The smaller diameter portion  1328  fits into the first annular recess  1230  of the cover  1204 . The raised annular ridge or ring  1330  fits into the second annular recess  1232  of the cover  1204 . The set of exhaust ports  1318  comprise eight ellipse-shaped or oval-shaped holes offset from one another by approximately forty-five degrees (45°) at a equal distance (e.g., 0.969 in) from the centerline  1228 . The first exhaust port  1318   a  is offset from the keyway  1316  by approximately twenty-two and one-half degrees (22.5°). Note that a different number, offset (e.g., 15° to 30°), sizing and spacing (e.g., 30° to 60°) can be used. The pattern, size, and location of the turbine discs in relationship to the turbine shaft  1500  is aerodynamically designed to create a turbulent free flow of exhaust gases from the turbine discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304  to the exhaust pipe. The design has a higher flow rate and therefore is less restrictive than other designs. This design (better flow rate) facilities the turbine having a higher adiabatic efficiency. 
       FIGS. 19A and 19B  are diagrams of a shaft  1500  for the fluid/vapor turbine  1600  in shown in  FIG. 16 . The turbine shaft  1500  is a single rotational shaft supporting both the rotating discs  1300 ,  1302  and  1304  in the fluid/vapor turbine  212  and the rotating parts of a switch reluctance generator  216 . The exhaust end  1504  of the shaft  1500  is supported by a first set of bearings  1606  ( FIG. 16 ) located in the bearing cover  1602  ( FIGS. 20A-1, 20A-2 ). The drive end  1502  of the shaft  1500  is supported by a second set of bearings  1608  located in the cover  1204 . Designed on the shaft is the labyrinth seal used on the turbine case. As previously described, the shaft  1500  includes a keyway  1510 , an annular disc stop  1506  and an annular ridge or ring  1508  on the annular disc stop  1506 .  FIGS. 20A-1 and 20A-2  are diagrams of a bearing cover  1602  for the fluid/vapor turbine  1600  shown in  FIG. 16 .  FIG. 20B  is a diagram of a bearing cover gasket  1604  for the fluid/vapor turbine  1600  shown in  FIG. 16 . 
     Although the present invention and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification, but only by the claims.