Showing papers on "Electric power published in 1977"

Electric power generation

Abstract: Electric power is generated from a non-uniformly operating energy source such as wind or water waves by driving hydraulic pump means by a wind wheel or a bobbing float The pump feeds hydraulic medium into a cylinder to raise a piston loaded by a weight When the weight rises above a predetermined level, the medium is fed under its constant pressure to drive an hydraulic motor connected to an induction generator Because the generator is driven at constant power (though intermittently) it can be connected to the public mains supply, eliminating the need to store power, without sophisticated interface arrangements A second generator connected to a resistive space or water heating load can be cut in at higher energy levels The hydraulic pump can be arranged to extract power from the source in the most efficient way

Process for producing methanol

Abstract: A system for processing coal to produce methanol, alcohol-slurry coal for transport, electric power and urea. Raw coal is graded. The downgraded fraction is gasified, producing steam and synthesis gas. The synthesis gas is converted to methanol which is then used to slurry upgraded coal for transport or to produce electric power. The steam output of the gasifier drives an oxygen generator to produce oxygen for the gasifier, when the synthesis gas is used to produce methanol, and also drives an electric power turbine. Natural gas may be used to maximize methanol production. Urea is a by-product.

Data processing system power control

Abstract: The data processing system consists of a plurality of interconnected data processing subsystems one of which is a service subsystem devoted to servicing the remainder of the system and provides communication between the operator and the system to facilitate maintenance. A plurality of power supply units provide electrical power for the system, together with power supply means dedicated to the service subsystem to start up. The service subsystem includes a power adapter unit with measuring and logic circuits which cooperate with a power control microprogram to control and monitor the plurality of power supply units. The power adapter unit collects analog and digital data from the plurality of power supply units and distributes digital data to the plurality of power supply units in a multiplex mode as directed by the power control microprogram. The basic functions provided are sequencing turn-on and turn-off of the plurality of power supplies, monitoring voltage, temperatures, and air flows of the system and checking the correct operation of the plurality of power supply units.

Power supply for weapon for immobilization and capture

Abstract: A weapon for subduing and restraining includes an electrical power supply. The magnitude and frequency of the electrical impulses delivered to the target provide energy in excess of 0.001 joules and ranges in effect from immobilizing to potentially "lethal" levels.

Mobile electric power generating systems

Abstract: An improved mobile electric power generating system comprising a substantially enclosed trailer for housing a power plant is disclosed. The improvements reside in removable means permitting access to the interior of the trailer enclosure for facilitating improved assembly and maintenance of the power plant. Additional features permit improved operation of the system, and improved methods for assembling the same.

Wave powered electric generator

Abstract: A wave powered electric generator using direct energy conversion is described which includes, within a water and airtight, buoyant envelope tethered to a fixed point relative to the sea bottom, one or more stators and one or more elements moveable by the force of inertia, the relative motion of the moveable element within the stator generating electricity. Also within the buoyant envelope is a rectifier for rectifying the electric energy generated by the moveable element, and power transmission means for supplying the generated and rectified electric energy to a power station. In a preferred embodiment, a conductive fluid is employed as a moveable element, this fluid being passed through a concentrated magnetic field, the resultant electrical power being tapped by electrodes whose axis preferably is orthagonal to the field and direction of fluid motion.

Revenue metering system for power companies

Abstract: An energy meter at an electrical substation contains a detector which chas state each time a quantity of energy is consumed. This data is accumulated in a microprocessor system. Real time energy consumption data is fed back to a customer monitoring station and may be telemetered to a power company central billing station. Customer and power company have their demand periods synchronized by the microprocessor system.

System for monitoring and controlling electric power consumption

Abstract: A system is disclosed for monitoring and controlling the consumption of electrical energy and the peak demand for electrical power in an installation The system can be programmed to automatically limit the instantaneous power consumption of the installation in accordance with the time of day and the required need of the facility The system sheds appropriate individual loads when the total instantaneous power consumption exceeds the pre-selected set point applicable for the time in question, to thereby return the power consumption of the installation to within this allowable limit Provision is made for selective load shedding whereby the relative size of the load shed corresponds with the relative degree of power overdraw In addition, after each shedding event, the system automatically realigns the order of priority by which the loads are shed Furthrmore, all shed loads are automatically reset to an operative condition on a periodic basic, according to the operating requirements of each load

Energy management system

Abstract: The present invention relates to an energy management system comprising an energy storage, a control system and a power converter supplying power to a load. The energy storage is arranged in individual energy units and the power converter is provided with a switching system for controlling the voltage over the load. The switching system comprises multiple parallel-connected power switches and at least one of the power switches is connected to each energy unit. The control system comprises individual control units, each being configured to monitor the status of a dedicated energy unit and produce an individual enable signal indicative of the status. Each power switch is configured to be controlled by the individual enable signal and a first control signal, wherein the control system is configured to connect multiple energy units in parallel to the load.

Solar celled hybrid vehicle

Abstract: A front wheel driven, gas powered vehicle is converted to include a rear differential connected for power input to a first and second electrical motor, or a single electric motor if desired. When first and second electrical motors are used they are connected in parallel, the power input thereto being brought across a current limiting series of resistors to protect and control the current level thereto. A switching circuit connects in various series and parallel combinations a plurality of batteries and concurrently switches the necessary current limiting resistance. Thus a control combination is provided including a manual selector for the desired forward and reverse directions and the low and high current ranges which is further multiplied by the various resistances. In this configuration, the normally available gasoline power plant is retained in the vehicle and is augmented during periods of nonoptimal use by the above electric motor provisions. This electric power can be periodically replenished either by way of a charger or a set of solar panels placed on the roof of the vehicle.

Long-run production modeling with pseudo data: electric power generation

Abstract: This paper presents a new approach to long-run production modeling which combines the simplicity of the statistical cost function with the technical detail of process analysis. Pseudo data, which are generated by an electric power process model, depict the cost-minimizing input configurations for alternative relative input prices. The pseudo data are then utilized to estimate a translog cost function, which provides price and substitution elasticities as well as a convenient form for micromodeling. Pseudo data offer numerous advantages compared to conventional time series particularly in that they avoid multicollinearity, a limited sample range, and inadequate technical and environmental detail.

Utility frame for mobile electric power generating systems

Abstract: An improved mobile electric power generating system comprising a substantially enclosed trailer for housing a power plant, and improved methods for assembling the same are disclosed. The improved system includes means defining a modular utility frame for carrying various support components of the system. Such support components may include a fuel storage tank, a start-up energy storage tank, a radiator, and power plant support apparatus.

Thermal storage with molten salt for peaking power

Abstract: An improvement in the process for the generation of electrical power in which heat released by exhaust gases derived from the combustion of gaseous products in a coal gasification process is stored and utilized to generated increased electrical power during peak demand periods.

Electrical vehicle and method

Abstract: The invention is an electrical power vehicle employing one or more motion electrical generators for converting up and down, horizontal or component motion of the vehicle or its wheel structure relative to the vehicle to pulse-type power for operating a flywheel motor-generator unit which drives a flywheel via a torque damper whereby the flywheel generator provides charging power for the batteries, which in turn operate the vehicle through a motor speed control, and supplies the other vehicle circuits A self-contained electric generator may operate at any location in the vehicle, preferably at the location of greatest vibration created by reciprocating motion when the vehicle is operated over roadways

Method and apparatus for controlling loads in electric power systems by reduction of peak loads

Abstract: This invention discloses a load management system for reducing the peak load in an electrical power distribution network. This invention monitors, records and reduces the peak load present in an electrical distribution network by deferring power service from and cycling power service to preselected transformer loads during periods of peak power demand. The peak load control function of the present invention is controlled by a power monitor which is located at the distribution transformer. The power monitor measures the ambient temperature and the power load on an associated distribution transformer and initiates the peak load control function whenever the product of the temperature factor and the measured load rises above a preset control point. Initiation of the peak load control function completely defers power service from a first group of low priority loads and activates a timing and switching mechanism which cycles power service among selected groups of controlled loads in a preselected order. As the peak load decreases, the peak load control function is terminated and full service is returned to all of the transformer loads. The point at which the control operation is initiated is a function of the maximum magnitude of the uncontrolled load and is automatically set and retained to provide a control point at which the peak load control function will be initiated in the future.

Hand cranked electrical power source

Abstract: A hand-cranked power source intended for use in emergency situations to grate electrical energy. The power source features a lightweight construction as well as the ability to generate a reasonable amount of power. The preferred embodiment couples an input drive shaft to a harmonic drive system having a high speed output shaft. Upon the output shaft are preferably mounted samarium cobalt magnets forming the rotor of a three phase alternator. The output of the alternator may be utilized to power a field device, such as a radio, or the like, or may be used to charge fast-charging batteries.

Power plant for simultaneously generating electric power and pneumatic pressure

Abstract: A power plant for simultaneously generating electric power and pneumatic pressure which comprises an engine, dynamo and compressor all juxtaposed, and wherein the crankshaft of the engine is disposed on the axis of a common shaft to the dynamo and compressor to be drivingly coupled to the common shaft and jointly rotated with the common shaft, thereby simultaneously generating electric power and pneumatic pressure.

Automotive electric generator

Abstract: The present invention provides an arrangement for use in a battery powered automotive vehicle and more particularly provides a means utilizing wind currents for generation of electric power, for use in connection with an electric motor driven vehicle, including: rotatable impeller means responsive to flow of air and mounted for rotation about a vertical axis where the impeller is carried on the surface of the electric motor driven vehicle; a power shaft cooperatively connecting an electric generator means and the impeller for generation of electric energy to be supplied to an electric storage battery means; and an electric motor to drive the vehicle; air guide means to direct air streams to the impeller to optimize efficiency in rotation of the impeller in one direction when the vehicle is proceeding in a selected direction and rotation of the impeller when the vehicle is at rest

Charged aerosol generator with uni-electrode source

Abstract: This invention relates to novel charged aerosol sources for diverse applications in Heat/Electric Power Generation, weather modification, airport fog clearance, dispersed chemical reactions, and other uses; and in particular, to a Wind/Electric Power Generator deriving electric power from wind power directly without moving mechanical parts through the medium of charged water droplets introduced into the airstream from a charging electrode, the charged droplets eventually discharging to ground, the electrical load being connected between the charging electrode and ground to complete the circuit. The wind/electric power is converted by an isobaric electrothermodynamic process occurring in the space charge field produced by the charged droplets, which are efficiently produced by novel charging devices on the charging electrode. The Wind/Electric Power Generator can be fabricated to extend across large areas of windstream to generate large electric power output at high voltage, and means are described for its conversion to standard 60 Hz, 110 V power.

CO{HD 2 {B Cooling of vehicles

Abstract: A system for CO2 cooling of the cargo compartment of a refrigerated vehicle. A vessel carried by the vehicle holds liquid CO2 at pressure preferably not greater than about 125 psia. Liquid CO2 is supplied to first heat-exchanger where it is vaporized and warmed a predetermined amount while the pressure is maintained at at least about 80 psia. The pressure of the warmed CO2 is lowered to about atmospheric pressure without the creation of solid CO2, while simultaneously cooling the CO2 vapor, using a gas-driven motor through which the CO2 vapor is passed. The cooled CO2 vapor from the motor is passed through a second heat-exchanger, and a fan connected to the motor circulates the atmosphere in the cargo compartment in association with both heat-exchangers. The CO2 vapor from the second heat-exchanger is vented to the atmosphere exterior of cargo compartment. Isenthalpic expansion means may be used in series with the gas motor, or a second gas motor may be used which can drive a generator to create electric power that is stored in a battery.

Underground pumped liquid energy storage system and method

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for producing electrical power during peak power demand periods and for, in effect, storing electrical power or energy during low power demand periods. Two or more cavities are provided in an underground salt dome or other thick salt deposit, with a first one of the cavities being located above the level of the second. Oil or other liquid in which salt is substantially insoluble, such as saturated brine, is placed in at least one of the cavities for use as a working liquid to produce electrical power. The power is produced by delivering the liquid from the first cavity to a pump/turbine unit located at a level below the first cavity to thereby drive the unit so that it produces electrical power. Such power would be produced, for example, during peak load demand periods when the need for power was greatest. Liquid discharged from the pump/turbine unit is delivered to the second cavity for temporary storage. During low power demand periods, electrical power is supplied to the pump/turbine unit to cause the unit to pump liquid from the second cavity back up to the first cavity to await repeat of the power producing phase of the cycle.

Water supply control for automatic hand washing and drying apparatus

Abstract: An improved control for use in a hand washing and drying apparatus including a first manually operable control device for causing operation of a solenoid-operated valve causing delivery of hand washing water directly to a bowl of the device for a preselected period of time. A second manually operable control device is provided for causing operation of a forced air drying structure of the device to provide hand drying air to the bowl. The control is arranged to prevent concurrent operation of the solenoid and air moving device. The control is further arranged to prevent concurrent operation of the electric heater of the water supply and the blower motor. Still further, the control is arranged to prevent concurrent operation of the solenoid valve of the water supply and the blower motor. The control is arranged to limit usage of electrical power so that a single conventional branch circuit can provide sufficient power to operate the device. The control provides an improved short delivery of the washing water so as to effectively require a number of manipulations of the manually operable control to effect a complete hand washing operation while continually maintaining an adequate supply of warm water for subsequent users. The device is arranged to permit substantially continuous sequential use thereof by a number of users as in a public restroom in effecting a series of hand washing and drying operations while providing the hand washing water in sufficient volume at the desired hand washing temperature to accommodate a series of users.

System-state and operating condition sensitive control method and apparatus for electric power delivery systems

Abstract: This invention provides a method and apparatus for determining a precise switching sequence for the power switching elements of electric power delivery systems of the on-off switching type and which enables extremely fast transient response, precise regulation and highly stable operation. The control utilizes the values of the power delivery system power handling network components, a desired output characteristic, a system timing parameter, and the externally imposed operating conditions to determine where steady state operations should be in order to yield desired output characteristics for the given system specifications. The actual state of the power delivery system is continuously monitored and compared to a state-space boundary which is derived from the desired equilibrium condition, and from the information obtained from this comparison, the system is moved to the desired equilibrium condition in one cycle of switching control. Since the controller continuously monitors the power delivery system's externally imposed operating conditions, a change in the conditions is immediately sensed and a new equilibrium condition is determined and achieved, again in a single cycle of switching control.

Operating cost calculation of an electric power generating system under incremental loading procedure

Abstract: A phased approach to calculating the expected operating cost of a power system, under the incremental loading procedure, is presented. The units in the system are divided into subsets according to their marginal cost characteristics. The contribution of each subset to the operating costs of the system is then derived in a recursive manner, taking maintenance and forced outages into account. The procedure is also extended to yield the expected amount of energy delivered by each unit in the system as well as the expected fuel cost for each unit. Given the unit cost of fuel, the expected amount of fuel consumed by each unit is easily derived.

Laboratory Experiments with Silicon Solar Cells.

Abstract: The uses of silicon solar cells as subjects of experiments in undergraduate teaching laboratories are discussed. The basic theory of these cells is presented, including equivalent circuits and characteristic equations. Fundamental experiments on the power output and efficiency, which are appropriate for non‐science majors’ courses, are detailed, as well as more advanced experiments on cell parameters. Experimental results and agreement with theory are presented for a typical inexpensive cell.

Electric power scrubber

Abstract: An electrically powered hand-held scrubber is disclosed which comprises a scrubbing brush removably attached to a sealed housing having a configuration adapted for a hand grip. Within the housing is a motor, preferably powered by rechargeable nickel cadmium storage cells which drives an eccentric. The eccentric produces an oscillating rotary motion which is communicated to the brush. The brush is moved in an oscillating back-and-forth rotary motion rather than a constant rotary motion, resulting in a more effective cleansing action. The brush has a generally triangular shape enabling it to fit into corners and other tight spots into which a circular brush cannot fit.

Illumination means for the head

Abstract: A light for being permanently attached to a hat and for directing a beam of light in the direction the person wearing the hat is looking. The light is adapted to allow the user thereof to vary the brightness of the beam of light produced thereby. Further, the light is adapted to be powered either by one or more electric storage batteries mounted on the hat or by an auxiliary source of electric power such as a standard electric trolling motor battery or the like. The auxiliary source of electric power is capable of, in addition to activating the light, recharging the electric storage batteries. The electric storage batteries are positioned about the hat so as to substantially evenly distribute the weight of the light over the head of the person wearing the hat.

Method and apparatus for detecting water in oil

Abstract: A sheet of hydrophilic paper is laminated between two plate electrodes and immersed as a water sensor assembly in an electric power transformer oil charging flow stream. A low power and voltage d.c. potential is impressed across the plates as the oil flows through or around the sensor. Any water in the flow stream coming into contact with the paper is absorbed and retained thereby. Such water reduces the electrical resistance of the paper thereby causing current flow. The consequent current flow is used as a signal to initiate the operation of a series of relays which interrupt the power supply of a prior art filtration drive motor.