Patent ID: 12188394

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The appended drawings are incorporated herein and constitute a part of the detailed description. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology may be practiced without these specific details. Like or similar components are labeled with identical element numbers for ease of understanding.

In general, and referring to the Figures, exemplary embodiments of the subject technology provide an electromagnetic turbine system1000(sometimes referred to as the “turbine system1000”), which generates power with improved efficiency. Referring toFIGS.1-4, the turbine system1000can be seen according to an exemplary embodiment. The turbine system1000may generally include one or more electromagnetic turbine modules700and a fluid circulation system500. The extent of the electromagnetic turbine modules700and fluid circulation system500may not be readily visible inFIGS.1-4because of the complexity of parts shown. So, it should be understood that the reference numbers500and700inFIGS.1-4point only to a point on each of the systems500and700. The following disclosure and remaining figures will attempt to break down an exemplary arrangement of the parts that comprise the turbine system1000, including the electromagnetic turbine modules700and fluid circulation system500. Due to the complexity and number of parts that comprise the turbine system1000, discussion of various aspects may be taken out of order from the order of the drawings. In addition, since the major subsystems of the turbine system1000are coupled together, there may be some redundancy or repetition in the discussion of figures that show elements in common between subsystems.

In some embodiments, the fluid circulation system may be adapted based on the number of turbine modules700present in any one embodiment. However, generally speaking, the fluid circulation system500may provide a fluid impetus to drive a turbine module(s)700, separate the fluid into constituent gas and liquid components, and recirculate one or more of the fluid components to drive a turbine module700again or to use in another part of the turbine system1000. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the turbine system1000includes six turbine modules700. Accordingly, the description will disclose a fluid circulation system500that may likewise include six fluid sources for driving respective turbine modules700. However, as will be understood, other embodiments may have as little as a single turbine module700which may need only a single fluid source arrangement. Likewise, embodiments with additional turbine modules700may include additional fluid sources driving the turbine modules700. In addition, while the embodiments described below comprise a one-to-one relationship between a turbine module700and a fluid source, other embodiments may be modified so that the respective turbine modules700may be driven by a fluid source in common or by shared fluid sources.

Turbine Modules

Referring now toFIGS.74,76, and78, one sixth of the turbine system1000is shown to highlight a single turbine module700for further details. The turbine module700(shown in cross-section) is the same module repeatedly shown inFIGS.74,76, and78but highlighting a different section of the module for additional details in an accompanying figure on the same sheet for the convenience of the reader. A turbine module700is shown intact and extracted from the surrounding supporting elements inFIG.44. In an exemplary embodiment, the turbine module700includes a turbine shaft708and an electromagnetic generator module750coupled to the turbine shaft708. While a single electromagnetic generator module750is shown, some embodiments may include multiple generator modules750with modifications to wiring to the system1000to extract the power generated from each generator module750as needed. The turbine module750may include a turbine impeller assembly (or a plurality of assemblies)600mounted to the turbine shaft708. The general impetus to drive rotation of the turbine shaft708may come from a driving force turning the impeller assemblies600(discussed further below). In an exemplary embodiment, the turbine module700may include six impeller assemblies600mounted to the shaft708. Referring temporarily toFIG.45, accordingly, the turbine system1000may comprise six levels of impeller assemblies600, wherein impeller assemblies600may be positioned approximately on a same horizontal level (plane) relative to the impeller assemblies600on an adjacent turbine shaft708. Six impeller assemblies600on the same level (a second level from top to bottom) with assemblies on adjacent modules700are called out. Similarly, some embodiments may expand the power output of the turbine system1000by expanding the number of turbine modules700present. Referring for the moment toFIGS.46-48, an embodiment with twelve turbine modules700is shown according to an exemplary arrangement. Generally speaking, the turbine modules700may be positioned so that impeller assemblies600of respective turbine shafts708may share a same level so that the source of the driving force (for example, the fluid source) may be configured to distribute the impetus fuel evenly on each level of the turbine system1000.

Turbine Generator

Referring now toFIG.75andFIGS.91-93, a turbine generator750may be seen in more detail according to an exemplary embodiment. The turbine generator module750may generally surround the shaft708. The turbine generator module750may include a stator710positioned around a perimeter of a rotor assembly740. Referring concurrently withFIGS.24-32, a rotor assembly740is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The rotor assembly740may comprise two arrays of magnets; an outer array of magnets706and an inner array of magnets707.

The outer array of magnets706may be configured to generate electricity when rotated within the stator710. In some embodiments, the outer array of magnets706may comprise magnets arranged in alternating fashion with the N-S poles being rotated north to south and east to west. For example, inFIGS.27and28, the polarities are shown as alternating between being on the ends that touch an adjacent magnet and on the ends that face the exterior and interior open space of the array.

The inner array of magnets707may be configured to generate a levitating effect on the generator module750along the turbine shaft708. For example, some embodiments may include a conductor plate709positioned below the array of magnets707. The magnets may be positioned so that the poles may alternate between being oriented lateral to each other or vertical to each other. For example, inFIGS.30and32, the magnets are shown with one magnet's poles facing away and toward gravity and adjacent magnets' poles facing toward and away from the first magnet. In addition, in some embodiments, a magnet with one pole facing away from gravity may have the opposite pole type on both sides of its upper half and the same pole type on both sides of its lower half. For example, a North pole facing upward (away from gravity) may be between two South poles on the upward facing surface of the array. A North pole on the downward facing surface of the array may be between to North poles of adjacent magnets. as may be appreciated, when this arrangement is positioned above a conductor plate709, the net magnetic field produces a repulsion force against the conductor plate709causing the generator module750to move upward away from the conductor plate709. This contributes to alleviating some drag on the turbine shaft708so that the less parasitic forces affect the power generated by the magnetic array706.

In some embodiments, the stator710may include a generator coil assembly760surrounded by a shroud765. The generator coil assembly760may cooperate with the rotor740to generate electricity from rotation of the outer array of magnets706. The generator coil assembly760may be positioned between the shroud765and the outer array of magnets706. Referring toFIGS.86-90, embodiments of coil assemblies760are shown. InFIG.90, a single coil assembly760is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The coil assembly760may include a conductive shroud765as a support element to which a plurality of magnets770may be attached to an inner surface of the shroud765. Each magnet770may have wires connected to positive and negative lines on each respective magnet. In an exemplary embodiment, the magnets770are wired to produce a three-phase axial flux when electricity is produced by the interaction with the rotor740.FIGS.86and87show the wiring along a line to a positive terminal780and a negative terminal785to which an output will be connected. Bundled wires may be protected by shielding790.FIG.88shows a six-coil assembly using two groups of three-phase axial flux wiring. With two groups, there may be two positive terminals780and two negative terminals785each producing three-phase flux from their respective three-coil assemblies760.FIG.89shows the direction of current within each coil assembly760when wired for three-phase axial flux. Referring toFIGS.134,135, and136, a turbine generator system is shown implementing six turbine generator modules750into two three-phase axial flux systems as they may be housed within the turbine system1000. The output of the turbine generator modules750may be used to wire to an electric motor or other components that require power in turbine generator system1000.

Upper Magnetic Bearing

In some embodiments, the turbine module700may include an upper magnetic bearing725. SeeFIGS.44,78and79. The upper magnetic bearing725may surround the turbine shaft708, positioned below the generator module750. The upper magnetic bearing725may be configured to help keep the turbine shaft laterally aligned without making physical contact. In some embodiments, the magnet719may be surrounded by a conductor shroud718. The upper magnetic bearing725may include a magnet or a magnet array719. In some embodiments, the upper magnetic bearing may be above and adjacent a first turbine impeller600. In this figure, a divertor fan720and the casing721for overflow are also called out to show some positioning relative to elements of the circulation components. If some spray scatters vertically up from impacting the turbine blades the divertor fan720may route the spray horizontally. This slows the spray down and helps keep it in the system. The liquid should drip down into the turbine casing below where the turbine blades can route the fluid through check valve670. In some embodiments, there may be a coupling723coupling turbine casings together which may prevent some liquid droplets from escaping the system.

Lower Magnetic Bearing

Some embodiments may include a lower magnetic bearing730. SeeFIGS.44,76, and77. The lower magnetic bearing730may include a conductor shroud713and a magnet(s)714(similar to the shroud718and magnet(s)719of upper magnetic bearing725). The lower magnetic bearing730may be positioned below a lowest turbine impeller600. A drain outlet711and a drain/overflow line712from a turbine impeller600are also called out to show positioning relative to some circulation components of the system500. The lower magnetic bearing730may be configured to help keep the turbine shaft laterally aligned without making physical contact.

Referring temporarily toFIGS.80-83, in an exemplary embodiment, the magnetic bearings725and730may comprise a Halbach cylinder. In one embodiment, the bearing may comprise a pair of frusto-conical Halbach cylinders positioned so that the wider base of each face each other. As may be appreciated, the Halbach cylinder bearing may be configured to produce a zero field inside the central bore of the magnet array, producing a near frictionless relationship with the turbine shaft708. In addition, the tapering sides of the frusto-conical shape and the angle of the taper changes the pressure of the resultant field along the sides. This helps the bearing stay centered around the shaft708.

In some embodiments, the turbine shaft708may include a pointed tip726to reduce friction during the startup process.

Levitation Array, magnetic array depicted inFIGS.30,31,32, situated around and attached to turbine shaft708can be a Halbach Array with the magnetic field facing downward towards a conductor plate709. Once rotating at an adequate speed, the field interacting with the conductor plate709will create eddy currents and a repulsive force known to cause magnetic levitation. The operation of the magnetic array depicted inFIGS.30,31,32may create an air gap422between the tip726and a supporting platform. As may be appreciated, levitating the turbine module700may increase its efficiency by lessening the energy lost to friction spinning on the supporting platform.

Vertical Positioning System

Referring now toFIGS.75,84and85, some embodiments may include a vertical positioning system for controlling the vertical travel of the turbine shaft708and turbine generator750. Elevational control may prevent the turbine shaft from rising to: high when levitated and colliding with elements above it. A vertical positioning system helps to keep the turbine blades650aligned at the proper elevation to receive pressurized fluid as depicted inFIG.23relative to680. In an exemplary embodiment, the vertical positioning system may include an optical sensor795configured to detect changes in color (or some other light characteristic). The optical sensor795may be positioned proximate the pointed tip726(or another section of the shaft708clear of other components). The pointed tip726may include two different colored stripes793and797. In a default state, the optical sensor795may detect that the shaft is in a safe state when the upper stripe793is detected. When the turbine shaft708rises so that the lower stripe797is detected, the optical sensor795may transmit a signal to a controller960indicating an excess of elevation of the shaft708.

Referring toFIGS.75,92, and93, on the upper end of the shaft708, a set of apposing magnets705may be coupled to a housing on the turbine generator750. The magnets705may be positioned proximate the upper tip of the shaft708. Magnets704may be positioned above the upper tip of the shaft708in alignment with the magnets705. A jack screw724may be coupled to the magnets704. In response to the turbine shaft708levitating too high, some embodiments may operate a stepper motor1006to drive the jack screw724downward so that the magnets704create a repelling force with the magnets705. The repelling force may drive or at least prevent the turbine generator750from travelling vertically higher.

Circulation System

Some embodiments of the turbine system1000include a circulation system500. The circulation system500may include generally for example, a fluid source for driving the turbine impeller module600, a fluid separator module400, and a reservoir system300for collecting a liquid component of the driving fluid to recirculate back to the impeller module600. In some embodiments, and as discussed in further detail below, the reservoir system may provide the liquid during a priming process during start-up of the turbine system1000.

Turbine Impetus

Referring toFIGS.5-8,14-15,22-23,97-99, and103-111, aspects of the fluid source and turbine module600are shown according to an exemplary embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, the impetus for the turbine module600may be a pressurized fluid. Embodiments may generally use two fluid components where one component is generally incompressible relative to a compressible component. The fluid may be for example, a compressed gas that may be mixed with a liquid that is less compressible than the gas. The gas may be introduced into the turbine system1000from an external source through entry point550(seeFIGS.1and11) which is connected to gas line manifolds819and820. The gas line manifolds819and820are shown as encircling the turbine system1000generally inFIGS.1-18. In an exemplary embodiment, the manifolds819and820may be routed as pairs.FIGS.103-107show a paired set of manifolds819;820connected to a six-to-one manifold2006(which may be connected to the gas entry point550shown inFIG.1). A solenoid2001may control flow to the compressed air manifold it is connected to. Some embodiments may include a three-to-one manifold2007which may route gas between three levels of manifolds. See for exampleFIGS.108-111.

Generally, the manifolds819and820may work as pairs fueling an upper and a lower level of pressure chambers855. In embodiments with six turbine systems700, each compressed air manifold819and820may be configured to provide gas to six pressure chambers855; three pressure chambers855on the upper level and three pressure chambers855on the lower level. In an exemplary embodiment, a manifold (819or820) fuels every other pressure chamber855on a level while the other manifold fuels the other three pressure chambers855on the same level. Referring toFIGS.97-99, in some embodiments, the gas may travel to a check valve870which may be connected to a pressure chamber855. When compressed gas or liquid is introduced into the pressure chamber855, ambient air may need to be flushed out. Ambient air may be drained through gas valve865until, for example, the pressure chamber is primarily filled with liquid. The pressure chamber855may be less than completely full of non-compressible fluid to leave room for a compressible gas. The liquid component may be routed from the fluid separator module400through conduit875. Liquid entering the pressure chamber855may be controlled by a liquid valve860. When the system is ready to pressurize the liquid with the compressed air as a propellant, the compressed air may be introduced into the pressure chamber855through air manifold824. The non-compressible fluid will tend to settle at the lower portion of pressure chamber855. The pressurized gas will tend to fill the upper portion of pressure chamber855and provide the impetus to propel the non-compressible fluid. The compressed or pressurized fluid combination may be controllably released from the pressure chamber855by a pressure release valve880into the impeller module600. In the impeller module600, the pressurized fluid may drive blades turning the turbine shaft708. The pressurized fluid may flow past the impeller module600, which as a result of transferring force to the turbine shaft708, loses pressure which may result in decompressed gas and/or liquid. In some embodiments, the fluid may flow into a decompressed fluid conduit675connected between the impeller module600and the fluid separator module400. In some embodiments, a check valve670may be connected between the impeller module600and the fluid separator module400. As will be discussed in further detail below, the fluid separator module400may separate the gas from the liquid component and recirculate at least the liquid component back to the pressure chamber855via a reclaimed liquid conduit875.

Turbine Impeller

Referring now toFIGS.1,22, and23, a turbine impeller module600is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The turbine impeller module600may be anexusbetween the fluid circulation system500and the turbine module700. The impeller module600may include a Pelton turbine impeller650housed within a sealed casing610. The turbine shaft708may be connected to the impeller module600through the center of the impeller fan650. In an exemplary embodiment, there may be six turbine impeller modules600per turbine shaft708. In some embodiments, there may be six turbine impeller modules600per cross-section level of the turbine system1000. However of course, the total number of impeller modules600per level and per system1000may depend on the number of turbine modules700present in the system1000. For example,FIGS.46-51show embodiments with twelve turbine modules700which may include twelve impeller modules600per level. Fluid may be introduced into the impeller casing610interior through a680or nozzle680connected to the valve880. As the fluid flows through the casing610, the fluid turns for example, fan blades on the impeller fan650causing rotation in the turbine shaft708.

Fluid Separator Module

Referring toFIGS.9-11,33-34,36,58-70,97-99, and127-130, a fluid separator system400is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The fluid separator system generally includes one or more separator modules430. In the exemplary embodiment shown, there are six separator modules430; one for each level of turbine impellers600. In general, the separator modules430may separate the gas component from the liquid component (or the compressed component from the less compressible component) so that at least one fluid component is recirculated back to the turbine module700for driving the turbine shaft(s)708. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the separator module430collects the liquid component and recirculates it back to the pressure chamber855.

Referring toFIGS.58-66, a separator module430is shown in detail according to an exemplary embodiment. The separator module430may include a plurality of fluid inlets410coupled to casing407, providing fluid from the impeller modules600. The number of inlets410shown is based on the number of impeller modules600present on the level of the turbine system1000for the exemplary embodiment described. After separation, liquid may be released through liquid exit(s)427. Fluid from the inlet(s)410may be collected through liquid passage412into a centrifuge system406. The centrifuge system406may comprise an outer impeller413and an inner impeller428situated above and aligned with the center of the outer impeller413. The inner impeller428and the outer impeller413may be coupled to a central shaft402that runs most of the vertical extent of the separator system400. As the outer impeller413and the inner impeller428rotate. The heavier liquid component of the fluid may naturally sink into the lower, outer impeller413. The gas component may be separated from the liquid and routed vertically along shaft402via inner impeller428. Inner impeller428may allow for decompressing gas to pass vertically along shaft402when multiple modules430are vertically oriented around shaft402. SeeFIG.11,33,68. Impeller428may route decompressing gas out of the module casing407and out a gas exhaust channel408and vertically along shaft402. Some embodiments may include fins445on a bottom surface of the impeller413. SeeFIG.64. The fins445may provide a barrier against liquid that may seep under the impeller413and prevent the liquid from the liquid from encountering and travelling down the shaft402.

Some embodiments may include a coupling409which may couple the top air/water separator430with the gas extraction assembly501above. The coupling seals the decompressing gas in the corridor so it can be routed to the impeller in gas extraction assembly501. As decompressed air impacts impeller501it may help rotate shaft402. Coupling414between air/water separator(s)430seals the decompressing gas along the shaft corridor per the same function as coupling409.

Storage, Drainage and Fill

Some embodiments may include a reservoir300which collects excess liquid that may inadvertently spray or escape. When rotating assemblies are both magnetically levitated and aligned, there are air gaps in which droplets may escape. Reservoir300can collect these droplets for reuse in the system. Referring toFIGS.1,2,5,7, and38-42a reservoir300with accompanying fill and drain elements is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The reservoir300may include a perimeter wall305defining the storage area for the liquid. The reservoir300may include a pump325which may pump the liquid into a six to one manifold310connected to solenoids285(FIG.130). The fill lines355may be connected to check valves360(FIG.59andFIG.129) leading into the separator module430. Some embodiments may include a hydraulic pump330which may control a hydraulic assembly (seen inFIGS.41-43). The hydraulic assembly may be positioned on a level above the manifold310as shown for example, inFIGS.7and11. The hydraulic assembly may include a lifting manifold365for adding hydraulic pressure raising the elements on the shaft708. The hydraulic assembly may position the impeller fan650blades at the correct elevation relative to the point in which pressurized fluid enters the pressure chamber855. Ideally, the pressurized fluid should impact the center of the turbine blades. The hydraulic assembly lifts the turbine system700to that ideal height. Once magnetic levitation is in effect the hydraulics may no longer be needed. The hydraulic assembly may include a retracting manifold370for releasing hydraulic pressure applied to the turbine system700, lowering the hydraulics after magnetic levitation takes over. When operating the lifting manifold365, the lifting manifold365may include a piston(s) attached to a rod (shown inFIGS.41and42) which pushes up against the platform under the turbine shafts708(see for example,FIG.76). The retracting hydraulic manifold370applies pressure to the top of the piston(s) drawing the rod back down and so there is an air gap between the turbine shaft point726and the platform below it during operation of the turbine module700.

Catchment

In some embodiments, the fluid separator system400may include catchment devices for collecting liquid. For example, referring toFIGS.123-126and132-133, on the top end of every turbine shaft708, and at the bottom of shafts708, there may be catchment devices455which collect liquid that escapes from the separator modules430and may leak down the shaft402. This may happen if the pump was falling behind for the amount of liquid entering the system. As mentioned briefly above with regard to divertor fan720, some spray on the top end may be collected and it drips down. The liquid collected may be returned to the reservoir300by drains335. In some embodiments, the drainage system may include a manual drain line470connected to the fluid separator system400(seeFIGS.33-37). Liquid from the separator module430may flow out a drain475in the separator module casing (seeFIG.35). Manually operated drains465may be opened to decrease the liquid present in the system1000as needed. Referring toFIGS.132-133, on the top end of the separator system400, there may be an overspray module453. The overspray module453may include a casing415. The casing415may surround the shaft402positioned above one or more of the separator modules430to catch any liquid that spins out of the outer impeller413. The casing415may flow the liquid down to drain475and back down to the reservoir300. The divertor fans417in the catchment devices455function similarly to the fan720on the turbine shaft708, except that once liquid gets to that low point it will drain into the reservoir300. On the bottom end of the shaft402, there may be a catchment module460(seeFIGS.33and123).

Gas Extraction

In some embodiments, the gas components may be extracted in the separator module430by the inner impeller428. Referring toFIGS.16,33,36, and68-71, some embodiments may include a gas extraction assembly501which may collect extracted gas and route it to exhaust lines432. The escaping gas impacts impeller inside assembly501thereby helping shaft402to rotate. In some embodiments, the exhaust lines432may be routed down to the reservoir300in case some droplets of liquid escape up the central shaft402. The escaped liquid is captured into the exhaust lines432and recovered by routing it to the reservoir300.

Priming

In some embodiments, the turbine system1000may include a priming protocol to provide initial fluid to the impeller modules600and initial rotation to the rotating elements in the system. The system will require a source of power to prime the system. The system may be primed by rotating shaft402and activating pump325. Solenoid valves315may be actuated one or more at a time to allow fluid to flow to the respective modules via conduit355. SeeFIGS.38,58,59,60, and127-130. The pump325may fill the separator module430with liquid that is routed further down to the pressure chambers855. In addition, the motor401may operate assorted valves and solenoids described above to, for example, fill the turbine modules700with compressed air ready to fill the pressure chambers855or flush non-compressed air out of the pressure chambers855. Another priming function includes lifting the separator system400including the shaft402by hydraulic power so that the shaft402is rotating out of contact from a supporting surface at start-up.

Control

Referring now toFIGS.1,2,12, and13control elements of the turbine system1000are shown according to embodiments. A controller950may be wired to various electronic elements in the system1000to control operation of the various aspects described above. The controller950may comprise a circuit board or a processor960. In some embodiments, a user interface screen970may be connected to the processor960so that users may be provided user selections and input for operating the turbine system1000. In some embodiments, the processor960may be connected to driver modules or chips975(sometimes referred to simply as “drivers975”). The drivers975may be connected to and control elements such as stepper motors1006or stepper motor1025(FIG.13). The control of stepper motors1006controls actuation of reduction gears1005or1007. Further discussion of examples of actuation of elements are discussed below.

Valve Actuation

Referring for example toFIGS.6,13,94-96,100-102and112-122, an actuation scheme for valves is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. When reviewing the figures, it should be noted that driving elements may be present in one drawing but not the other so that various features can be seen relative to the other features between figures. For example,FIG.94shows a vertical view of actuation features for two different levels of valves860and865(which can be seen more readily inFIG.6). The top of the structure only shows a gear box815while in practice, other features may be present. The valves860and865are controlled to be opened on the upper level while closed on the paired lower level (and vice versa). In an exemplary embodiment, there may be paired gear boxes (upper815and lower817) for controlling respective pairs of valves860;865.FIGS.113-122show this in clearer detail.FIGS.94-96also show a belt816(which may be the same as belt1030called out for example, inFIGS.115and122) that wraps around a pulley811(called out as element1035inFIG.122). A liquid flow passage822is accessible by liquid as controlled by the liquid valve860. A fitting825may connect one of the two valves to the pressure chamber855. Liquid flows through fitting825into the pressure chamber855. Referring toFIGS.100-102, some embodiments may be configured so that the pulleys and valves are staggered (inner and outer sets) for consideration in use of space. As a result, some embodiments use a different size belt1030for the outer gears1003than the belt1002for the inner gears1004.FIGS.118A-118Cshow the valve actuation assemblies for six turbine shafts (not pictured here).

Referring toFIG.6(andFIG.17for a concurrent top view), the two levels of valve pairs860and865can be seen according to an embodiment. The top level includes planetary gears801,803, and807for operating the rotation of valves860;865. A sun gear802may be situated between the planetary gears801,803, and807. Planetary gears801and807may be coupled to valve stems805and806respectively. The bottom level has similar planetary gears801,803, and807for turning its valves. The shaft804may be coupled to both pairs of valves860;865so that when the belt810turns pulley811, the planetary gears801and807are turned which in turn rotate valve stems805and806to open or close the passageways through each valve leading to pressure chamber855.

Pressure Charging Control

Referring back toFIG.95, in an exemplary embodiment, the control of the fluid intake and release from pressure chambers855may include a staggered sequence. While it may not be readily visible, it should be understood that embodiments include two levels of pressure chambers855with one pressure chamber855coupled to an upper pair of the vales860;865and a lower pressure chamber855coupled to the lower pair of valves860;865. The compressed gas manifold819may be the source for half (three) of the upper level pressure chambers and half (three) of the lower-level chambers855. The gas manifold820may be the source for the other half (the alternate three) pressure chambers855in the lower level and the other half (alternate three) of the pressure chambers855in the upper-level. In an exemplary embodiment, as the upper valves860;865are controlled to fill a pressure chamber855, the lower valve pair may be setting up to fill its pressure chamber865. The controller960may be configured to operate the pairs of valves860;865so that every other pressure chamber855on the same level is charging up with pressurized fluid while the other three pressure chambers855are expelling fluid into their respective impeller modules600. The controller960may also time the charging of pressure chambers855on the lower level to have the alternate state of their upper level counterpart so that for example, the upper pressure chamber may be charging while the lower level pressure chamber855may be expelling. In the exemplary process described, each turbine shaft708may be continuously driven with an even distribution of fluid force down the shaft. In other embodiments, the controller960may also operate the valves860;865so that the pressure chambers855may be staggered with intermediate states of charging. For example, a first pressure chamber855may be in a fully open state having fully expelled the pressurized fluid, a second pressure chamber855may be in a fully charged state, ready to expel the pressurized fluid when the first pressure chamber becomes fully expelled, and a third pressure chamber855may be in a partially charged state, accumulating the pressurized fluid while waiting for the second pressure chamber855to fully expel the pressurized fluid. The sequence may repeat for the next three pressure chambers855on the same level.

Wiring Referring now toFIGS.137-139, a wiring scheme900is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The wiring scheme900shows wired connections between the processor960, stepper motors701, user interface970, drivers975, solenoids809controlling opening/closing of gas from manifolds819;820, and optical sensors795.
Mechanical Actuator System

The previous embodiments employed electricity (for example, from the generator coil assembly760FIGS.86,87) to power electrical actuators connected to a fluid control system. The examples provided included actuators which may be stepper motors in communication with a set of valves to control the incompressible fluid and solenoids to control movement of compressible fluid. Some embodiments included an electric motor powering a centrifuge responsible for separating liquid and gas. When not shielded properly, electrical signals may be subject to interference from electromagnetic fields which the EMT/FRS creates.

The following description discloses embodiments that use a mechanical actuator system3100to run electrical actuators. Being mechanical, the present actuator system3100is not subject to electromagnetic interference. As a preview, forces in pressure chambers3710and3711(FIGS.179-184) can be harnessed to generate electricity that can be used to power a centrifuge motor401(SeeFIGS.2,3, and10). The mechanical actuator system may set the timing of actuators/fluid control system.

Referring now toFIGS.140-142, an electromagnetic turbine system3000(sometimes referred to as the “system3000”) is shown according to an embodiment. The system3000is similar to the system1000with respect to the use of compressible and incompressible fluids, except as mentioned above, uses mechanical actuation instead of electrical actuation to pressure and de-pressurize pressure chambers filled with the compressible and incompressible fluids. In the system3000, a mechanical actuator system3100(SeeFIGS.143-145) may be retrofitted on to the original system1000replacing some of the electrically operated actuator components. The mechanical actuator system3100is shown inFIGS.143-145in an isolated view. In an embodiment, the mechanical actuator system3100may generally include cables, pulleys and shafts to control movement or operation of other elements in the system3000. In some embodiments, the mechanical actuator system3100may transfer energy from timing assemblie(s)4000(See for example,FIGS.163and207-209) to trigger assemblie(s) to operate their respective trigger(s) in valve actuator cable sub-systems3200,3300, and3400(described in more detail below). In some embodiments, the cabling on each level may be a single cable intertwined and tensioned among the plurality of pulleys and shafts so that elements turned by the cabling move synchronously.

When positioning hydraulic manifolds3706/3709(FIG.179) and manifolds3754/3755(FIG.182,18318), consideration should be made to elevation relative to their respective pressure chamber855(See for example,FIG.8). In the remaining disclosure, embodiments will refer to pressure chambers855as pressure chambers3710and3711. Pressure chamber3710refers to the higher situated element while pressure chamber3711refers to the lower situated element, when viewed as pairs of pressure chambers855. Pressure chambers3710and3711may be configured similar or exactly alike to one another. Accordingly, when referring generally to pressure chambers of the following embodiments, reference to “pressure chamber3710/3711” can mean either the pressure chamber3710or the pressure chamber3711. In addition, reference to the pressure chamber3710as being “higher” generally indicates the arrangement of the pressure chamber3710as being above or of higher elevation than a paired pressure chamber3711(unless the context of the description is specifically referring to a higher or lower pressure status of either pressure chamber3710/3711). When using hydraulic pressure, air bubbles in hydraulic lines can cause a spongey and weaker response. With proper positioning, air bubbles originating in pressure chamber3710/3711travelling to the hydraulic manifolds3709/3706and manifolds3754/3755can be lessened or eliminated completely. This can be accomplished by keeping manifolds3709/3706and3754/3755at a low point relative to their respective pressure chamber3710/3711where liquid pools due to gravity. In this way, the system3000can be structured with one hydraulic manifold3709or3754for their respective set of higher pressure chambers3710(FIG.184) and one hydraulic manifold3706or3755for their respective set of lower pressure chambers3711(FIG.184). When hydraulic manifolds are split in this way, one hydraulic manifold can power a valve actuator cable sub-system3200or valve actuator cable sub-system3400and the alternate manifold in a pair can power a valve actuator cable sub-system3300.

It is also possible to use only one hydraulic manifold3706or3709for a set of six pressure chambers3710/3711. For example, one hydraulic manifold3706or3709may be placed at the lowest point of lower pressure chambers3711(FIG.182). That one hydraulic manifold3706or3709may connect to three higher pressure chambers3710and three lower pressure chambers3711(FIG.181). That one hydraulic manifold3706or3709may power all three of the valve actuator cable sub-systems3200,3300, and3400.

FIGS.146-148show an embodiment of a valve actuator cable sub-system3200that is attached to, and operates the opening/closing of twelve pressure valves880.

FIGS.149-151show an embodiment of a valve actuator cable sub-system3300that is attached to, and operates the opening/closing of twenty-four pressure valves860and865.

FIGS.152-154show an embodiment of a valve actuator cable sub-system3400, with 6 modules that control operation of valves5308.FIGS.155-157show one circuit module3401located within the valve actuator cable sub-system3400(FIGS.152-154). The circuit module3401includes a set of tension release pulleys that are coupled to valves in the other figures.

FIGS.158-160show examples or how cable circuits are wrapped around the perimeter with a system of pullies. These figures also depict how the elevation rotational energy can be transferred vertically. For example, referring to dumbbell shaped pulley6100FIG.160, the lower pulley element on pulley6100can be attached to a cable3573originating from timing assembly4000(FIGS.185-189, which can create rotational energy around the entire pulley6100. Timing assembly4000can store energy in spring4380and release that energy in a predetermined time depending on the state of thumb screw6500FIG.219. When the energy in spring4380(FIGS.204-205) is released it can create rotational energy around pulleys6703(FIG.241tube6200(FIG.241and pulley4103(FIGS.235-236which pulls on cable3573(FIGS.185,186188,189. That rotational energy can be transferred vertically to the upper part of the pulley(s)6100with the connecting tube6001. Roller bearings6003can assist in smooth rotation.

FIGS.161-163show isolated views of a hydraulics and timing system3201that attaches to the sub-cabling system3200for twelve valve operation.FIGS.164-165show isolated views of a hydraulics and timing system3301that attaches to the sub-cabling system3300for twenty-four valve operation.

Module3700(FIG.176,177,178) includes an assembly of twelve pressure chamber3710/3711and their respective components. System3000, (FIGS.140,141,142) as depicted includes three modules3700. Each module3700may manifolds819and820. Module3700may be comprised of two sub-modules3701(FIG.179,180,181) or3750(FIGS.182,183,184) that include six pressure chambers3710/3711each.

Each module3701or3750may be defined by their connection to air/gas manifold819(FIGS.179,180,181) or air/gas manifold820(FIG.182,183,184). Pressure chambers may be higher pressure chambers3710(FIGS.181-184) or lower pressure chambers3711(FIG.181,184).

Pressure Charging Control by Mechanical Actuation

FIGS.176-184, depict modules3700and sub modules3701and3750. Pressure is created in pressure chambers3710and3711when compressed air/gas fills that chamber from compressed air/gas manifolds819;820. The pressure chambers3710and3711may be analogous to the pressure chambers855(FIG.8) except that the pressure chambers3710and3711may be arranged for upper and lower levels respectively. The system3000may have for example, six compressed air/gas manifolds819;820(three each per level). Each manifold819;820may supply pressure to six pressure chambers3710and3711. Three of those pressure chambers3710can be situated higher and three of those pressure chambers3711can be situated lower, as shown inFIGS.181-184. Supply lines3704may be connected to the lower end of pressure chambers3711. Supply lines3704may be connected to hydraulic manifold3706. Supply lines3703may be added to the lower end of pressure chamber3710. Supply lines3703may be connected to hydraulic manifold3709. This structure creates hydraulic pressure in two hydraulic manifolds3709and3706(FIG.179). In some embodiments, compressed gas/air may be harnessed from pressure chambers3710and3711by moving supply lines3801and3800to the upper side of the chambers3710and3711where there is a pocket of compressed gas/air. The hydraulic fluid originating from pressure chambers3710/3711can be pressurized from energy stores originating from compressed gas/air supplied by compressed air/gas manifolds819and820. Compressed air/gas manifolds819and820may pressurize fluid in the lower part of pressure chambers3710/3711. The six compressed air/gas manifolds819and820may each be associated with a respective pressure chambers3710and3711(three high and three low chambers). That group of six pressure chambers3710/3711may be associated with the following three groups of actuator systems:

Twenty-Four Valve Actuator Sub-System

The valve actuator cable sub-system3300(FIGS.149-151) may actuate twenty-four valves connected to a central planetary gear assembly system2410(FIG.174). The actuator cable sub-system3300controls the fluid entering, and escaping air/gas, at the upper section of pressure chambers3710;3711(for example, some embodiments have each pressure chamber3710;3711tilted with one end higher than the other).

Twelve Valve Actuator Sub-System

The valve actuator cable sub-system3200may actuate twelve valves880connected to a central planetary gear system (FIGS.118-120). The sub-system3200controls the fluid/gas that can escape at the base/lower side of pressure chambers3710;3711.

Three Valve Actuator Sub-System

FIGS.152-154show a valve actuator cable sub-system3400that may actuate three valves. A single module3401of an actuator cable sub-system3400is depicted.FIG.258depicts a trigger assembly4500that actuates a valve5308in the valve sub-system3400. An actuator lever5310of the valve5308for the trigger assembly4500can be seen inFIG.258. Timing assemblies4000can be seen that are connected to the actuator cable sub-systems3200and3400inFIGS.161,162163.

Sub-systems3100,3200,3300,3400, and3401(FIGS.143-157connect the timing assembly4000with the trigger assembly4400. The sub-system3200actuator cables transfer energy from timing assembly4000to the trigger assembly4400associated with the sub-system3200. Similarly, the sub-system3300actuator cables transfer energy from the timing assembly4000to the trigger assembly4400associated with the sub-system3300.

Compressed Gas Control Valves Sub-System

Referring now toFIG.258, a compressed gas control valves sub-system4500may include three valves5308, which may be connected to compressed air lines824(FIG.8andFIG.258) that supply compressed air/gas to manifolds819;820. The three valves5308of system3000replace the electrically powered solenoid valves809(FIGS.8and137) of system1000. The system1000in some embodiments may also operate with mechanically actuated valves5308as depicted inFIG.258. A valve5308is connected to a supply line824below the valve5308and supply line7701(FIG.258) above the valve5308, which connects to compressed air/gas to manifolds819and820. The valves5308may be normally closed until when actuated. An actuator lever5310may be connected to a valve5308, which may be actuated by pulling an actuator cable5311coupled to the actuator lever5310. The actuator cable5311and the actuator lever5310may be connected by a spring5312that can assist in removing slack from the actuator cable5311. Once open, the valve5308will fill compressed air manifold819or820and begin a sequence of changing states that loop in such a way the system3000will continue to operate so long as a sufficient amount of compressed gas/air is supplied to the system3000.

Adjacent compressed air manifolds819and820may be operated under alternating and reciprocating protocols. The alternating protocols can assist the alternate systems to reset actuators (for example, valves860,865, and880, timing assemblies4000, triggers4400, swinging door assembly4002, arms4327,4328,4330, hydraulics4750,4752,4753, and tension release pulley5600) in the valve actuator cable sub-systems3200,3300, and3400to the start position. This reset function will be discussed in greater detail later.

Transfer of Energy to the Power Spring

When valve5308is activated, compressed gas will fill pressure chambers3710and3711via air manifolds819and820. The fluid at the bottom of pressure chambers3710and3711will then become pressurized. Pressurized fluid will flow to hydraulic manifolds3709and3706via hydraulic supply lines3703and3704. Pressurized fluid will further flow to hydraulic cylinder4750(shown inFIGS.185,186,188,189,228,229) via supply ports3702and3705FIG.179. When hydraulic cylinder4750is pressurized, hydraulic arm4752will begin to extend. A hydraulic pulley4753may be attached to hydraulic arm4752and may then start to extend cable3639(FIG.188). Cable3639may rotate planetary gear assembly3600(seeFIGS.172and173). Planetary gear assembly3600may have a one-way clutch bearing3607. One-way clutch bearing3607can be situated so pulley grooves3636/3637do not engage shaft3624when cable3639extends. Cable3639and cable3638can be situated inside grooves3636and3637respectively. Cables3639and3638can be permanently affixed to planetary gear assembly3600. Extending cable3639will cause cable3638to retract as it wraps around the pulley groove3637.

Referring toFIG.170, when cable3638retracts, pulley stack4200will begin to rotate. Cable3638can be affixed to and wrapped around pulley4101located on pulley stack4200. Pulleys4101,4102and4103can be connected so they can rotate in unison. Pulley3502may be attached via a one-way clutch bearing3577. Clutch bearing3577may be arranged so pulley3502does not rotate when cable3638retracts. Pulley stack4200may be attached to support shaft3555via roller bearings3501. As shown inFIG.170, pulley4101may be attached to power spring4755(FIGS.185-189) via cable3570. As pulley stack4200rotates it will create tension in power spring4755. The power spring4755depicted is a compression spring. An extension spring may be used instead in some embodiments. Pulley3577and4101may be different diameters in order to create a mechanical advantage.

FIGS.228,229,230depict a trigger assembly4400in a retracted state, which can also be seen connected to the sub-system3301inFIGS.165-167.FIGS.271,272,273depict trigger assembly4400in an extended state.

Timed Release Function Overview

The valve sub-system3200, valve sub-system3300, and valve sub-system3400can change state at different timed intervals by the action of a timing assembly4000(FIGS.204-206) which will be broadly described here. Tension release pulley4103(FIG.170) located on pulley stack4200may be part of a tension release assembly5600as depicted inFIGS.235-239connected to the timing assembly4000. The tension release assembly5600may create tension in a spring4380(FIG.227) located in the timing assembly4000. Tension release pulley4103may have one tooth3517(FIGS.235-239). The tooth3517on pulley4103may be seated inside of a shuttle3513as depicted inFIGS.235-239.FIGS.235and238represent the starting position of tension release pulley4103. Tension release assembly5600may enclose shuttle3513with a stationary housing3575(seeFIGS.235-237. Shuttle3513may include rollers3580so it can smoothly slide within the gap between stationary housing3570and tension release pulley4103. Tooth3517may latch into shuttle3513so it can be pulled by the rotation of pulley4103.

As pulley stack4200rotates, pulley3502(See e.g.,FIG.170) can also rotate as depicted in (FIG.236) creating tension on cable3573(FIG.238). Cable3573may be connected to and create tension in spring4308located in timing assembly4000. As tension release pulley4103continues to rotate, it will push shuttle3517into an escape pocket5700depicted inFIGS.237and239. This will allow the shuttle3513to slide off of tooth3517releasing the tension on cable3573(seeFIGS.237,239). The release of the tension of cable3573will also allow tension on spring4380to be released. The releasing of tension from spring4380will ultimately result in the change of state of the respective valve sub-system3100, valve sub-system3200, and valve sub-system3400. This function will be discussed later and in further detail.

Timing assemblies4000may result in the release of tension from power spring4755. As the tension from power spring4755dissipates, it can rotate pulley stack4200in the reverse direction as previously described. As pulley stack4200rotates, tension release pulley4103may also rotate. The tooth3517can push shuttle3513back towards the starting position (FIGS.235,238where tooth3517can seat itself back into shuttle3513. In addition, as pulley stack4200rotates as a result of the decompression of power spring4755, pulley3502may rotate which in turn rotates a generator assembly3523as depicted inFIG.167. The generator assembly3523will be discussed later and in further detail.

Referring toFIGS.235and238where shuttle3513is re-seated, the re-seat assembly5650(FIG.238) may have a flexible piece of material3514that receives pressure from spring3515and may be enclosed by the wall of stationary housing3575. Cable3573can be under tension by spring4755or spring4380. Once cable3573is released as depicted inFIG.237andFIG.239, shuttle3513can be pulled back to the starting position by power spring4755(FIGS.185-189or spring4380(FIGS.204-206,221-227). Shuttle3513will eventually make contact with back stop7900(FIG.238) when pulled to the starting location (as shown inFIG.235) by spring4755or spring4380. Once in this location, tooth3517can re-seat itself. Tooth3517, part of pulley4103, will make contact with3513when4103is rotated back towards the re-seat location depicted inFIG.235. Flexible material3514will allow shuttle3513to momentarily lift to allow for tooth3517to re-seat itself inside3573.

Timing Assemblies Per Compressed Air Manifold

The turbine system1000(FIG.1) depicted may have six compressed air manifolds819and820. Each compressed air manifold819or820may provide pressure to six total pressure chambers3710/3711FIG.181. Three pressure chambers3710can provide pressure to one hydraulic manifold3709/3754. Simultaneously, three pressure chambers3711can provide pressure to one hydraulic manifold3706/3755.

Each compressed air manifold819or820can be associated with two hydraulic manifolds3709/3754and3706/3755. Each hydraulic manifold3709/3754may be associated with three timing assemblies4000.

Each inner planetary gear assembly1002(FIG.175), may have six rotational assemblies3600(FIGS.185,186,188,189). Half of the six rotational assemblies3600on each inner planetary gear assembly1002may be associated with one hydraulic manifold3706. The other half may be associated with hydraulic manifold3755.

Each outer planetary gear assembly1003, (FIG.174) may have six rotational assemblies3600(FIGS.185,186,188,189). Half of the rotational assemblies3600on each outer planetary gear assembly1003may be associated with one hydraulic manifold3709. The other half can be associated with hydraulic manifold3754.

Rotational assemblies3600may be operated on alternating protocols relative to the other half as depicted inFIGS.174and175. Each rotational assembly3600may be associated with one timing assembly4000.

As depicted inFIGS.173-175, each rotational assembly3600may have a one-way clutch bearing3607that can rotate planetary gear3628. One hydraulic manifold3710or3711may be associated with three rotational assemblies3600. A trigger assembly4400(FIGS.228-230,232, and271-273) on an alternate protocol may be associated with three alternate assemblies3900(FIGS.200-203). Half of the one-way clutch bearings3607(FIGS.173-175) may be situated to rotate assembly3600in one direction and the other half can be situated to rotate assembly3600in the opposite direction. Under this protocol the alternate one-way clutch bearings3607will free wheel and not engage shaft3624. Referring toFIG.174, the planetary assembly2410for sub-system3300is depicted.FIG.175shows the planetary assembly1210for sub-system3200. Assemblies3600for the planetary assembly2410may be situated to alternate rotation between direction2400and direction2401. This alternating protocol can alternate the state of the associated valves (FIG.112) in sub-system3300. Assemblies3600for the planetary assembly1210may be situated to alternate rotation between directions1200and1201. This alternating protocol can alternate the state of the associated valves (FIG.118) for the sub-system3200.

Each hydraulic manifold may be associated with three or six timing assemblies4000. Hydraulic manifolds3709and3754may be associated with three timing assemblies4000. Hydraulic manifold3706and3755may be associated with six timing assemblies4000. The three timing assemblies4000associated with manifold3710actuate a twenty-four valve system (sub-system3300) in some embodiments. Of the six timing assemblies associated with hydraulic manifold3706or3755, three actuate a twelve valve system (sub-system3200) and three may actuate a three valve system (sub-system3400) in some embodiments. This arrangement may help to balance the load on manifolds since the twelve valve and twenty-four valve actuator systems may have different power requirements.

Referring toFIG.203, two tension release pulleys4103may be connected to and rotated by pulley stack4200. This structure can allow for two timing systems4000to be associated with one pulley stack4200. Single timing assemblies4000for the sub-system3300are depicted inFIGS.185,186,187. Paired timing assemblies4000for the sub-systems3200and3400are depicted inFIGS.188,189,190.

Actuating the Valve Sub-Systems

FIGS.185,186,188, and189show a power spring4755that may provide the energy necessary to change the state of the sub-system3200and sub-system3300. When the timing mechanism has triggered the release of tension in power spring4755FIGS.185-189, the decompression of power spring4755will start to pull on cable3570(FIGS.170,188, and189, wrapped around pulley4101(FIG.170), which will cause rapid rotation of pulley stack4200(FIGS.170,185,186,187). Cable3638(FIGS.172,173,185,186,188,189) will begin to wrap around pulley4101. As cable3638pulls and unwraps from rotational assembly3600(FIGS.172,173,174,175it will also begin to rotate planet gear3628(FIG.173to an alternate state. Pulley3608(FIG.173transfers rotational energy to the valves860(FIGS.6,97,98,99,118, and118A, valves865(FIGS.6,97,98,99,118A), and valves880(FIGS.15,22,23,118A. The sub-system3400may be actuated by the energy in spring4380located in timing assembly4000.

Two timing assemblies4000may be operated by one pulley stack4200(FIGS.185-187) connected that includes two tension release pullies4103. One tension release pulley4103may be associated with a timing assembly4000for the valve sub-system3200. The second tension release pulley4103may be associated with a timing assembly4000coupled to the three valve sub-system3400.

The 12 Valve and 24 Valve Trigger Mechanism

Referring toFIGS.232-234, a trigger mechanism is depicted that can be the same for both of the valve subs-systems3200and3300. The trigger assembly4400may include a linear bearing track5202that allows for linear travel of linear bearing5201. A shuttle5207may be attached to linear bearing5201. Shuttle5207may have a hold fitting5205. Hold fitting5205may be held back by trigger5206. Extension spring5203may assist trigger5206to stay in place in relation to hold fitting5205.

Tension may be created in cable5208as a result of the action previously described for hydraulic4750. This tension will ultimately be stored in power spring4755(FIGS.185-189) and held back by the action of the trigger assembly4400described here. This tension may be rapidly released when a pulling force originating from timing assembly4000is transferred to trigger cable5209. When trigger cable5209is pulled, trigger5206will pivot releasing shuttle5207attached to linear bearing5201. Subsequently, these components will rapidly travel down linear track5202which will allow power spring4755to decompress.

This trigger mechanism may be reset by the action of a hydraulic cylinder4750in sub-system3200connected to a hydraulic cylinder4750in sub-system3300. Hydraulic cylinder4750in subsystems3200and3300may be connected by hydraulic5800as depicted inFIG.292operating under an alternate protocol. As the first hydraulic cylinder4750extends, it may displace a hydraulic cylinder4750operating on the alternate protocol causing a hydraulic arm4752to. Hydraulic arm4752may connect to shuttle reset rods5900(FIGS.271-273). As hydraulic arm4752of trigger assembly4400returns to a retracted state, reset rods5900may push shuttle5207towards the reset position as depicted inFIG.232. Reset rods5900may have reset rod tips5901that may contain dampening springs5903.

The System Loop and Reciprocal Protocols

The system3000once triggered, may continue operating in a loop so long as a sufficient amount of compressed gas/air is supplied. Keeping in mind there are three pairs of compressed air manifolds819and820and six total compressed air manifolds, that may operate under an alternating protocol in the illustrative embodiment. Referring toFIG.278, the compressed gas/air manifold819/820at the top/highest elevation of the system8001may be referred to as “manifold 1” and the lowest compressed air manifold8006on system may be referred to as manifold 6. This way they may be numbered as compressed air manifolds 1-6. An example of an alternating protocol is when manifolds receive compressed air in the order of manifolds 1, 3, and 5, and then compressed air is alternately provided to manifolds 2, 4, and 6. The provision of compressed air repeats back to manifolds 1, 3, and 5, and so on to manifolds 2, 4, and 6 in a repeating loop.

Referring toFIGS.281-283, the sub-system3400timing assembly4000powered from manifold 1 may be connected to actuator lever5310associated with manifold 3. The sub-system3400timing assembly4000powered from manifold 3 may be connected to actuator lever5310associated with manifold 5. The sub-system3400timing assembly4000powered from manifold 5 may be connected to actuator lever5310associated with manifold 2. The sub-system3400timing assembly4000powered from manifold 2 may be connected to actuator lever5310associated with manifold 4. The sub-system3400timing assembly4000powered from manifold 4 may be connected to actuator lever5310associated with manifold 6. The sub-system3400timing assembly4000powered from manifold 6 may be connected to actuator lever5310associated with manifold 1. As can be seen by the previous description, the timing assemblies4000and actuator levers5310for each manifold may form a connected loop.

The Actuator Cables

Actuator cables3573(FIGS.185,186,188,189) originating from timing assemblies4000may be connected directly to the trigger5206(FIGS.233and234) and actuator lever5310(FIG.258) for their respective valve sub-systems. Actuator cables3573may be shielded with a tube and operate similar to a throttle or brake cable. Should for some reason the three associated timing assemblies4000not provide pull force at precisely the same time, this may cause an inefficiency in the system. This problem may be remedied by an arrangement of actuator cables as depicted inFIGS.143-157.

Instead of connecting actuator cable3573(FIGS.235-237) from time release4000directly to the triggers5206and actuator lever5310, they may connect to an actuator cable circuit6000(FIGS.150,153,156). The cable circuit6000may then connect separately to the associated trigger5206and actuator lever5310. In this example arrangement, should one timing assembly4000actuate prior to the other two, the cable circuit6000may simultaneously pull on all triggers5206and actuator lever5310in that related system.

Transferring the Elevation of Rotational Energy

Multiple methods may be employed to vertically transfer rotational energy within system3000. When actuator cables3573need to change elevation within the cable circuit6000to reach their respective trigger5206and actuator lever5310pair, a dumbbell shaped pulley6100(FIG.160) may be used. In this arrangement rotational energy may be transferred from one pulley6100to another pulley6100via a connecting tube6001. Other single pulleys6002or dumbbell shaped pulleys6100may be attached to the tube section of6001via a roller bearing(s)6003. Pulleys may also be attached to a support shaft5004(FIGS.144-145) via roller bearings6003. Additional support shafts5004may be added to accommodate the space needed for all cables as depicted inFIGS.143-145.

FIGS.143-145depict the valve sub-systems3200,3300, and3400actuator cable systems together.FIGS.146-148depict a valve sub-system3200actuator system only.FIGS.149-151depict a valve sub-system3300actuator system only.FIGS.152-154depict the sub-system3400only.FIGS.155-157depict only one circuit within the sub-system3400.FIGS.284-286depict only one circuit3310within subsystem3300.FIGS.288,289,290depict only one circuit3210within subsystem3200.FIGS.279,280,281depict a module of sub-system3200and sub-system3400combined with six associated timing assemblies4000.FIGS.148-150depict a module of the sub-system3300with three associated timing assemblies4000. Rotational energy may be transferred from one cable to another when two or more different cables are affixed to the same pulley6100as depicted inFIG.160. Tube6001is a sub component of pulley6100. Tube6001and pulley6100rotate in unison. Tube6001can change the elevation of rotational energy relative to the cable elevation on each end of pulley6100.

The elevation of rotational energy originating from timing assembly4000may be changed by adding a tube6200connected to transfer pulley6703(FIGS.241,244, and247). Rotational energy originating from power spring4755may be vertically transferred to rotational assembly3600needed for valve sub-systems3200and3300by vertically situating a pulley and cable system7700as depicted inFIGS.185,187,194, and197.

Additional Details of the Timing Assembly

Referring now toFIGS.213-216, the timing assembly4000system may contain a swinging door assembly4002. The swinging door assembly4002may be open as a default state. Swinging door assembly4002may have an L section4012. Swinging door assembly4002may contain rollers4013to accommodate movement with contact cylinder4330(SeeFIG.227). Swinging door assembly4002may contain a flip door4016with a torsion spring4014. Torsion spring4014may help flip door4016return to an extended state. Swinging door assembly4002may contain a torsion spring4015to help L section4012return to the default state. The default state is depicted inFIGS.213-216where the swinging door assembly4002is lined up with a linear bearing track4017. Swinging door assembly4002may have a pivot point6300as an axis that allows for4012to swing. The pivot point6300may be connected to linear bearing4010. Swinging door assembly4002may have a slot and pin4020which may limit the movement of L section4012. The pin in4020may be affixed to linear bearing4010. Linear bearing4010may be attached to the linear bearing track4017. Linear bearing4010may be attached at both ends to a cable4021. The tension in cable4021may cause swinging door assembly4002to travel back and forth along linear bearing track4017.

The swinging door assembly4002may be connected to timing pulley6400via cable4021. Timing pulley6400may be connected to and rotate in unison with spring pulley6401shown inFIGS.204,205,206. The spring pulley6401may be connected to spring4380(FIGS.204,205,206) via cable4021. Timing pulley6400and spring pulley6401may have different diameters in order to create a mechanical advantage. The alternate side of swinging door assembly4002may be connected to tension release pulley4103attached to pulley stack4200via tension cable4021.

The tension from spring4380may pull swinging door assembly4002to one side as depicted inFIG.221. When L section4012makes contact with push point4030FIG.217, it will pivot on point6300as depicted inFIGS.215-216. The pivoting of L section4012in this way allows space for contact cylinder to move unimpeded to an alternate state.

The timing assemblies4000associated with manifolds 1, 3, and 5 of timing system7500(FIGS.161and162) and their operation protocol can be connected via hydraulic lines and7601(See alsoFIG.171). The flow of hydraulic fluid through hydraulic lines7600and7601cause contact cylinder4300to change state/location to a timing assembly4000associated with a manifold operating under the alternate manifold protocol 2, 4, 6 of timing system7501.FIG.171depicts how hydraulic lines7600and7601change to connect to reciprocal ports4320and4322ofFIG.227. These reciprocal connections will cause contact cylinder4330to move in alternating directions relative to the alternate timing assembly4000.

When tension release pulley4103rotates as previously described, swinging door assembly4002will begin to travel along linear bearing track4017to an alternate state as depicted inFIG.223. When swinging door assembly4002travels in this way along linear bearing track4017, tension in spring4380may accumulate. As swinging door assembly4002travels along linear bearing track4017, flip door4016will eventually come in contact with push point4031(FIG.217). This action will cause swinging door assembly4002to pivot as depicted inFIG.223. This pivot action will allow swinging door assembly4002to avoid contact with contact cylinder4330. As the L section4012and rollers4013of the swinging door assembly4002avoid and move passed contact cylinder4330, tension release pulley4103will eventually release tension as previously described on tension cable4021. When tension is released in this way spring4380may begin to dissipate tension by drawing swinging door assembly4002back towards its original state as depicted inFIG.221.

The movement of swinging door assembly4002back to its original state may be resisted in a controlled manner by a hydraulic assembly6600(FIG.227). It's this resistance to the movement of swinging door assembly4002that may control the timing of actuation of valve sub-systems3200,3300, and3400. The timing may be set manually by turning thumb screw6500(FIGS.218,219) or electrically with a stepper motor4325(FIGS.227and271). The timing may be set differently for each valve sub-system3200,3300, and3400.

Referring toFIG.227, a hydraulic assembly6600may include a contact cylinder4330which may connect to arm4328, which may connect to linear bearing4327, that allows for movement along track4326. Arm4328may be attached to piston shaft4324. Piston shaft4324may be attached to piston head4329. Piston head4329may push and pull hydraulic fluid in chambers4321and4323. Hydraulic fluid may enter or escape fluid chambers4321and4323via ports4320and4322. Ports4320and4322may be connected to the alternate ports on a timing assembly4000as depicted inFIG.227. It is these connections that may change the state of contact cylinder4330fromFIG.221toFIG.226as previously discussed.

Referring toFIGS.218,220, and227, an hourglass port5100is shown where the movement of fluid through port5100may be controlled by the position of valve head5101. When the thumb screw6500is rotated in one direction, the position of valve head5101may create a smaller opening for fluid to pass through opening5100. When the opening is smaller it will take longer for piston head4329to push fluid out of4321via port5100which may create a delay for swinging door assembly4002to travel along linear bearing track4017.

When the thumb screw6500is rotated in the opposite direction the position of valve head5101may create a larger opening for fluid to pass through opening5100. When the opening is larger it will take less time for piston head4329to push fluid out of4321via port5100which may reduce the delay for swinging door assembly4002to travel along linear bearing track4017.

Referring toFIGS.221-226the action of swinging door assembly4002may be associated with a timing tension release assembly5600connected to an actuator(s)5206or5310or actuator circuit5000driven by the decompression of spring4380. Spring pulley6401may have tab6700(FIGS.242,245,248,251,254, and257) that interacts with two tabs6701and6702on transfer pulley6703. Transfer pulley6703may be connected to timing tension release assembly5600with a tube6200. Transfer pulley6703, tube6200and the tension release pulley4103associated with timing tension release assembly5600may be connected to rotate in unison.

As the swinging door assembly4002is drawn to the start position by the decompression of spring4380, it may rotate tab6700towards tab6702. The space between tab6700and tab6702represents a delay prior to actuation/rotation of the timing tension release assembly4000. Once tabs6700and6702make contact and rotate, tension release pulley4103will also begin to rotate. This represents the actuation phase of the actuator cables in relationship to the respective valve sub-systems3200,3300, or3400as previously described. Tab6700will continue to rotate tab6702. Tension release pulley4103will eventually release shuttle3513as previously described inFIGS.237and239.

Re-Seating the Shuttle in the Timing Tension Release Assembly

The travel of the swinging door assembly4002from the position of4012depicted starting fromFIG.222then toFIGS.223and224may re-seat the shuttle3513in the timing tension release assembly5600(FIGS.235,236,237. This direction of travel may rotate tab6700in the reciprocal direction as previously described. Eventually tab6700will make contact with tab6701. This will result in the reverse rotation of tension release pulley4103(FIGS.170,235,237) and tooth3517may push shuttle3513to the re-seat position as depicted inFIGS.235and238previously described.

Function of the Generators

Referring toFIG.167,168,169, the action of the generator assembly—3523may create electricity to help power the rotation of centrifuge motor401(FIG.10). Pulleys3502,3503,3504(FIG.167) and6800(FIG.169may be different diameters to provide for a mechanical advantage designed to increase the rotation of generator shaft3506and generator3523in relation to pulley stack4200. This arrangement may maximize the power output of generator(s)3523.

Pulley3502may be connected to pulley3503via belt3509. Pulley3503may be connected to rotary shaft3521with a one way freewheel clutch bearing3506. This arrangement will allow pulley3503to rotate rotary shaft3521but rotary shaft will not rotate pulley3503. Pulley3504may be permanently affixed to rotary shaft3521. Pulley3504may be connected to generator pulley6800via belt3505. Generator3523may be connected to generator shaft7000with a one way freewheel bearing3506. This arrangement will allow generator3523to continue spinning when the rotational input slows or stops.

Multiple generators may be connected via rotary shaft3521. Rotary shaft3521may have one or more flywheels3522. This arrangement may preserve and continue rotational momentum between separate generator3523systems. Electricity may be aggregated from generators3523system wide under the arrangement depicted inFIG.167. This aggregated energy may be utilized to rotate centrifuge motor401(FIG.10).

Other Improvements to System

As previously described, the EMT/FRS1000FIGS.1and3000FIG.140may function with any gas that may safely be compressed. This includes Noble gasses such as neon or argon well known for their illuminative properties. When these Noble gasses are used in the EMT/FRS components such as the compressed air manifolds819and820may strategically be comprised of transparent material such as acrylic. Electricity generated by the system may be used to excite those gasses for the benefits illumination of those gasses provide which may be both practical and aesthetic.

Some embodiments may include an improved arrangement of the impeller501and fan assembly at the top of the centrifuge stack. Referring toFIGS.259, in some embodiments, impeller501may be attached to the ring gear4600. Ring gear4600may connect to sun gear5400via planet gears7100. Under this arrangement one rotation of impeller501may result in greater than one rotation of shaft402(FIGS.69and70). Shaft402may be connected to sun gear5400via a one-way freewheel bearing5401(FIG.261). In this way the fan impeller501(FIG.260) may turn the shaft402but the shaft402may not turn the fan501. This would eliminate an undesirable vacuum effect that the centrifuge might cause when rotating too fast. This also slows the escape of decompressing gas which should reduce the amount of water droplets that escape the centrifuge.

Referring now toFIGS.291,292,293,294, an Electro Magnetic Turbine and Fluid Recirculation System (EMT FRS)9000(sometimes referred to in general as the “system9000”) is shown according to another embodiment. The system9000is similar to the system1000except that the system9000includes a mechanical actuator system powered by hydraulic pressure that does not necessarily require electrical actuators or a control chip to open and close valves at the proper time.FIG.292is depicted absent of elevation control assemblies9455and rotational assemblies9456.

Multiple Pressure Pipes Per Turbine Blade Assembly

Referring toFIGS.296,297,298and319, the system9000may include turbine blade assemblies9450. In this example, the turbine blade assemblies9450may be supplied with pressurized fluid by more than one pressure chamber9111-9116(shown inFIGS.296and327). In this example there are six pressure chambers9111-9116for each turbine blade assembly9450. Each of the pressure chambers9111-9116may be fitted with fluid control valves (9810-9813): for example, pressure release valve9810(FIGS.296,311,329), liquid valve9811(FIGS.308,309,312,313,318,319,320,329), gas valve9812(FIGS.308,309,312,313,318,319,320,329), and compressed gas supply valve9813(FIGS.308,310,329,350,352,351).

Cam Actuator

Fluid control valves9810-9813may be actuated in the proper sequence in part due to the action of cam actuator assembly9775(FIGS.304,305). Cam assembly9775can be connected to valves9810-9813via control rods9712,9722,9732(FIGS.304,305,310,311.

Cam Components

The cam actuator assembly9775may have for example, three concentrically arranged rails. One embodiment includes an outside rail9731(FIG.305,316), a middle rail9721(FIG.305,315) concentrically positioned inside the outside rail9731, and an inside rail9711(FIG.305,314) positioned concentrically inside the middle rail9721. Those three rails (9711,9721, and9731) may be attached to platform9680(FIG.303). In one embodiment, the platform9680may support six sets of the concentrically arranged rails9711,9721, and9731. The platform9680may be attached to gear9650(FIGS.300,301,317,353,354) so that operation of (turning of) the gear9650rotates the platform9680.

Referring toFIGS.314-317, each rail assembly may comprise vertical walls9710,9720, or9730respectively, and lateral rails9711,9721, and9731(which may be cam surfaces) respectively. Control rods9712,9722, or9732may be affixed to lateral rails9731via roller bearings9750. Each rail or cam surface (9711,9721, and9731) may be coupled to a plurality of control rods (9712,9722, or9732), respectively. For example, as shown inFIG.305, rail9711is coupled to six control rods9712. Rail9721is coupled to six control rods9722. Rail9731is coupled to six control rods9732.

As shown inFIGS.314-316, lateral rails9711,9721, and9731may have high sections990and low sections9991. As the platform9680turns the cam actuator assembly9775, the control rods9712,9722, and9732move up and down as the roller bearings9750roll up and down the high sections9990and low sections9991of lateral rails9711,9721, and9731.

Control Rods

Referring toFIGS.317and329, in some embodiments, the control rods9712,9722and9732may be laterally stabilized by a fixed plate9755. The control rods9712,9722, and9732move up and down relative to their connection to the cam actuator assembly9775. Given the high and low points of the cam actuator assembly9775, the roller bearings9750will move the control rods9712,9722, and9732up and down. The top end of the control rods may include a linkage9996that may have one or two pivot points that allow for vertical translation of the control rods9712,9722, and9732. The linkage9996may be coupled to the valves9810,9811,9812, and/or9813. The vertical translation of the control rods9712,9722, and9732change the open/closed state of the respective valve(s)9810,9811,9812, and/or9813. The control rod movement may be laterally restricted or held in place by a linear bearing9751which is held in place laterally by the plate9755. The plate9755may be bracketed in a stationary position. In this way the cam surface of rails9711,9721, and9731will slide along the bottom of the rods where they are connected with bearings. When the bottom of the control rods9712,9722, and9732trace a change in elevation relative to the cam surface, the control rod will move up, down (or stay level). The top of the control rods9712,9722, and9732may be coupled to valves9810,9811,9812, and9813that are moved from open and closed states. In this arrangement, the vertical motion of the control rods9712,9722, and9732may be dictated by the rolling curvature on the top surface of the rails9711,9721, and9731.

InFIG.310, the control rods9722may be coupled to valves9813. In operation, the up and down motion of control rods9722may open and close valves9813. InFIG.311, the control rods9712may be coupled to valves9810. In operation, the up and down motion of control rods9712may open and close valves9810. Referring toFIGS.312and313, the control rods9732may be coupled to valves9811and9812. In operation, the up and down motion of control rods9732may open and close valves9811and9812. Valves9810,9811, and9812may be quarter turn ball valves in some embodiments. Valve9813(FIG.310) may be a spring actuated valve that is normally closed.

Connected Cam Assemblies

Multiple cam actuator assemblies9775be connected together via transfer gear9630(FIGS.300,301,303,353,354) and gear9640. The rotation of transfer gear9630may be powered in part due to the action of sun gear9610(FIGS.300,301,303,347,348,349). The torque from sun gear9610may be increased via a planet gear9620(FIGS.300,301,353,354). Transfer gear9630and gear9650may be connected together by an intermediary gear9640(FIGS.301,303). Gear9650may be connected to the bottom of the cam actuator system9775as a rotational input for the cam actuator assembly9775. The sun gear9610may be connected to shaft9500(FIGS.303,347,348,349). The shaft9500may be connected to pulleys9511-9516(FIGS.348,349). Pulleys9511-9516may each be connected to shaft9500with a one-way clutch bearing9453(FIG.339). Pulleys9511-9516may each be rotated by the action of respective timing assembly9965(FIG.341). The rotation of a pulley9511-9516may rotate shaft9500.

May be Supported by Only One Centrifuge

The system9000may be supported by only one centrifuge9250(FIGS.318,322,323,346) and one impeller assembly9251(FIGS.318,322,324,355,356,357). An impeller9256(FIGS.322,324) may capture decompressing air escaping centrifuge9250to assist in the rotation of shaft9458(FIGS.318,320,322). The rotational source9457(which may be for example, a motor or other driving mechanism) (FIGS.292,294,318,320,322) may also assist in the rotation of shaft9458.

Mechanical Actuator Powered by Hydraulics

Some embodiments include a hydraulic manifold assembly9199, as shown inFIG.325. The hydraulic manifold assembly9199may aggregate hydraulic pressure from respective pressure chambers9111-9116(FIG.296). The hydraulic manifold assembly9199may include six separate manifolds9131-9136. The hydraulic pressure from pressure chambers9111-9116may be delivered to the hydraulic manifold assembly9199via hydraulic conduits9121-9126(FIGS.325,329) to actuate hydraulics9171-9176. In some embodiments, the hydraulic manifold assembly9199may comprise manifold(s)9131-9136. Each hydraulic manifold9131-9136may aggregate and deliver hydraulic pressure to their respective timing assembly9965(FIGS.339,340,341).

Some embodiments of the hydraulic manifold assembly9199may comprise a plurality of hydraulics9171-9176. Each hydraulic9171-9176may be the same. The connectivity for each hydraulic9171-9176may be traced according to their last number in the reference numeral being the same as the last number in the reference numeral of their connected manifold. For example, hydraulic9171is connected to manifold9131. Manifold9131is connected to conduit9121, conduit9121is connected to pressure chamber9111. And, hydraulic9172is connected to manifold9132. Manifold9132is connected to conduit9122, conduit9122is connected to pressure chamber9112. The same connection scheme follows for the remaining hydraulic, manifold, conduit, and pressure chamber sets.

Each timing assembly9965may contain a hydraulic9171(FIG.326) (or other designated hydraulic depending on the set of elements connected). Hydraulic pressure from the manifold assembly9199to manifold(s)9131-9136may be routed to extend hydraulics9171-9176via hydraulic conduits9141-9146. Hydraulic pressure from manifold(s)9131-9136may be routed to retract hydraulics9171-9176via hydraulic conduits9151-9156. A single hydraulic manifold (9131-9135) can simultaneously extend one hydraulic9171while retracting a hydraulic9171on a reciprocal protocol.

Timing Assemblies

In an embodiment, the system9000contains three timing modules9900(FIGS.339-342). Each timing module9900may contain two timing assemblies9965(FIG.339-341). Timing assemblies9965can be connected by hydraulic lines7600and7601. Hydraulic lines7600and7601can assist in changing the state of a timing assembly9965that is operating on an alternating protocol.

A hydraulic chamber9963(FIG.338), may be supplied or topped off with hydraulic fluid via supply line9960(FIGS.338,326). The hydraulic supply line9960can be supplied by a hydraulic manifold9131-9136FIG.326. The fluid flow may be controlled by a hydraulic regulator9961and a check valve9962. Given the arrangement described, the timing assembly9965may remain functional in the event of a small hydraulic leak in a timing module9900.

Referring toFIGS.339-341, when a hydraulic arm9177extends, tension may accumulate in cable5212. The tension may be transferred to the compression of a spring4755and timing spring4380. The tension in timing spring4380may be released on a delay based on the position of thumb screw6500(FIG.338). The release of tension from the timing spring4380may be transferred via cable5210(FIGS.339and341), routed around pulley5211(FIGS.340and341), to gate5209. The cable5210may lift gate5209. When gate5209is lifted, it may pull on cable5210. The cable5210may pull trigger5206(FIG.233,234). Once the trigger5206is pulled tension may be released from the power spring4380.

Referring toFIGS.339-341, the power spring4755may be connected to cable9910. The cable9910may be connected to pulley9911. The pulley9911may be connected to the cable9912. The cable9912may be connected to pulley(s)9511-9516. Pulley(s)9511-9516may be connected to cable5212. Each timing system9965is associated with only one of the pulleys9511-9516.FIGS.339-341show isolated views of two9965systems/1 module9900which is why there are only two pulleys depicted. Pulley9511-9516can be connected to shaft9500via a one-way clutch bearing9453(FIG.339). Via these connections the release of tension from power spring4380may be transferred to shaft9500(FIGS.303,348,349) in the form of rotational energy.

Rotational Limiter

The rotation of cam assemblies9775(FIG.304) may be controlled in part by the action of gate9460(FIG.353,354), a latch9462(FIG.354) and a shuttle stop9461(FIGS.353,354). The rotation of transfer gear9630(FIG.303) may be propelled in part by the action of timing assembly(s)9965(FIG.339). The forward moment of gear9630may be stopped when the shuttle stop9461, attached to gear9630, impacts gate9460. The gate9460may be secured in place to gear box cover9660(FIG.303). In this way the rotation of transfer gear9630and cam assembly9775can stop and travel sixty degrees at a time. Gate9460may be held securely in part when secured to latch9462. Latch9462may be secured to plate gear box plate9670as shown inFIG.303.

FIGS.300,301depict a gear assembly9600according to an embodiment. The gear assembly9600connects rotational energy from shaft9500to one or more cam assembly(s)9775. Rotational energy starting from shaft9500, is transferred to sun gear9610. Movement of sun gear9610may move gear9620, which moves gear9630. Movement of gear9630is transferred to gear9640. Movement of gear9640moves gear9650. Movement of gear9650transfers rotational energy to the cam assembly9775.FIG.3669992depicts and alternate embodiment of gear assembly9600. Gear assembly9992depicts and expanded system with an additional set of gears9650connected by gears9640.

Generator

In addition to rotating sun gear9610(FIG.348), shaft9500(FIG.348,349) may be used to rotate generator9225(FIG.348,349). The generator9225may be connected to shaft9500via a gear reduction system. For example, referring toFIGS.347-349, the shaft9500may be connected to gear9517. Gear9517may be connected to gear9519via belt9518. Gear9519may be connected to gear9521via a shaft9520. Gear9521may be connected to gear9523via belt9522. Gear9521may rotate shaft9524so the rotation may be converted into electrical energy via generator9525.

Auxillary Hydraulic/Water Pump

Referring toFIG.346, the system9000may include a fluid pump9230that may supply hydraulic pressure to a single action hydraulic9240via conduit9220and conduit9222. The fluid pump9230may also supply fluid to centrifuge9250via conduit9220and conduit9221. The centrifuge9250may distribute fluid to respective pressure chambers9111-9116. The flow of fluid from pump9230may be controlled by a shut off valve(s)9232.

Recirculation

In some embodiments, the turbine blade casing9212shown inFIGS.297and298may capture fluid impacting the turbine blade assembly9450. That fluid (including gas) may be routed from casing9212via conduit9213(FIGS.297,298,305,319). The fluid may be further routed to centrifuge9250where air and gas may be separated. Gravity will cause the fluid to drain into the lower section of centrifuge9250where centrifuge impeller9255(FIGS.322,323) may pump fluid back to pressure chambers9111-9116via conduit(s)9209(FIGS.318,320,322,323), then manifold9210(FIGS.318,319) then supply line9211(FIG.308), then via valve9811(FIG.308).

Referring toFIG.322, decompressing air may be allowed to escape centrifuge assembly9250vertically via a gas extraction assembly9251(which may use for example, an impeller) and further via conduit(s)9200. The conduit(s)9200may be further routed to tank9275(FIG.294) to recapture any droplets that might escape. Decompressing air escaping via gas extraction assembly9251may impact air impeller9256to assist in the rotation of shaft9458.

Priming

Priming for system9000may operate similar to the priming in systems1000and3000. However, system9000may include the following elements related to priming that may not be applicable to priming systems1000or3000. Referring toFIGS.297-298, upper magnetic bearing9410and lower magnetic bearing9411may be attached to turbine shaft9451. The turbine blade assembly9450may also be attached to shaft9451. Bearings9410and9411may be surrounded by a conductor9412. Conductor9412may be made of copper, for example. Turbine shaft9451may have one or more bearings9452. An air gap may be present between an inner radius of bearing9452and the shaft9451. The bearing9452may help stabilize the turbine shaft9451during start up prior to magnetic alignment.

Referring toFIGS.308-309, isolated views of the connections related to valves9811and9812are shown according to an embodiment. Valve9811may supply fluid to pressure chambers9111-9116via supply line9211and supply line9215(FIG.309). Valve9812may allow air to escape pressure chambers9111-9116while the chambers fill with liquid. Water can overflow during filling via conduit9216, then via two-to-one manifold9814, then via valve9812, then via drain conduit9260. Conduit(s)9260may be routed to tank9275FIG.357. Pressurized gas may travel via conduit9274FIG.308, then via check valve9815, then via two-to-one manifold9814, then via conduit9216.

Referring toFIGS.318-320, an isolated view of the fluid recirculation system9990for the system9000is shown according to an embodiment. The system9000may include a centrifuge9250that may pump fluid via conduit(s)9209to fluid manifold(s)9210, and then from manifold9210to supply line9211. Pressurized fluid may be released into the turbine blade casing9212. Fluid may escape from casing9212via conduit9213. Conduit9213may drain into the upper side of centrifuge9250. Gravity can allow fluid to fall to the lower side of centrifuge9250so the fluid may be pumped again via the same route described by the action of centrifuge impeller9255(FIG.323). Centrifuge9250may allow decompressing gas to escape vertically to gas extraction assembly9251. Decompressing gas may escape assembly9251via conduit(s)9200. Conduits9200may be routed to tank9275(FIG.357). In this way any droplets that may have escaped the centrifuge9250may be recycled back into the system.

Referring now toFIGS.330-334, as can be seen, hydraulic lines9121-9126, transport hydraulic pressure from pressure chambers9111-9116(FIG.296) down to manifold assembly9199. Via manifold assembly9199, pressurized fluid may further be routed via conduits9151-9156(FIG.326) and conduits (9141-9146) (FIG.326) to engage timing modules9900(See for example,FIG.337).

Referring toFIGS.335-337, an isolated view of hydraulic elements that are connected to one of three timing modules9900are shown according to an embodiment. Each timing module9900may be paired with two of the hydraulic chambers9111-9116. Hydraulic pressure originating from pressure chambers9113and9116(FIG.327) can travel along conduits9123and9126to provide pressurized hydraulic fluid needed for timing module9900(FIG.335) to function as previously described.

Referring toFIG.345, the layout of single action hydraulic(s)9240used to elevate turbine shaft(s)9451(FIG.297-298) during startup is shown according to an embodiment. Hydraulic fluid may be supplied to hydraulic(s)9240via conduit9222and via six to one manifold9231.

ReferringFIGS.350-352, routing compressed gas is shown according to an embodiment. Supply line9270may supply compressed gas/air to the entire system9000. Compressed gas may be distributed via a six-to-one manifold9271, then via supply line(s)9272, then via manifold(s)9273, then via supply lines9274. Supply line9274may further route compressed air/gas to manifold9814. Manifold9814may further route compressed air/gas via conduit9216. Conduit9216may further route compressed air/gas to pressure chamber(s)9111-9116.FIGS.355-357, depict the path of extracted gas from gas extraction assembly9251and conduits9200.FIGS.358-360depict the overfill/drain assembly. When compression chambers9111-9116overflow, the excess fluid may be captured via conduit(s)9260so excess fluid can be routed to tank9275(FIG.357) for reuse in the system9000.

Alternate Embodiment for Configuration of the Centrifuge

FIGS.361-364represent an alternate function and configuration of a centrifuge9991. Referring toFIGS.362-364, shaft9500and shaft9458may be connected via magnetic flywheel assembly9970and reduction gear assembly9980. Shaft9500and shaft9458may be separated by an air gap9984. A magnetic flywheel assembly9970may include a flywheel bracket9976which may hold magnets9974. Magnets9974may be a Halbach array assembly with the field facing outboard towards coil9971. Coil9971may be mounted on a stator9972. A conductor9973may be positioned outside and adjacent of the stator9972. The conductor9973may comprise copper. A reduction gear assembly9980may comprise a sun gear9983, a planet gear9982and a ring gear9981. Shaft9500may be connected to the magnetic flywheel assembly9970via a one-way clutch bearing9975. Previously, shaft9500was depicted as contiguous with what is referred to here as shaft9458. In this example there is a reduction gear assembly9980that allows for shaft9458to rotate at a greater speed than shaft9500. This increase in rotational speed can increase the performance of centrifuge impeller9255. The air gap9984allows shaft9500and shaft9458to rotate freely and at different speeds. Magnetic flywheel assembly9970can serve multiple functions. Acting as a flywheel only, magnetic flywheel9970may preserve rotational energy between inputs of rotational force applied to shaft9500. When there is excess force available, the magnets9974on magnetic flywheel assembly9970may act as a generator by inducing a current in coil9971.

Shaft9500may rotate in part due to the action of timing module(s)9900. The rotation of shaft9500may be transferred to centrifuge impeller9255. Magnetic flywheel assembly9970may help to preserve momentum while shaft9500is not receiving a rotational input from a timing module9900. The relative motion of magnets9974may be utilized to induce a current in coil9971. This current may be used for any purpose. It may be added to the output of system9000, for example. Reduction gear assembly9980may increase the rotational rate of centrifuge impeller9255. One-way clutch bearing9975may allow magnetic flywheel assembly9970to rotate freely after the rotational input from shaft9500has ceased.

Those of skill in the art would appreciate that various components may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or partitioned in a different way) all without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The previous description provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention.

Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” “above,” “below” and the like as used in this disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frame of reference, rather than to the ordinary gravitational frame of reference. Thus, a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, and a rear surface may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference. Similarly, an item disposed above another item may be located above or below the other item along a vertical, horizontal or diagonal direction; and an item disposed below another item may be located below or above the other item along a vertical, horizontal or diagonal direction.

A phrase such as an “aspect” does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as an “embodiment” does not imply that such embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. A phrase such an embodiment may refer to one or more embodiments and vice versa. A phrase such as a “configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such a configuration may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for.” Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.