Overview
The KinergyPower system represents a creative, first-of-a-kind concept using existing technologies and components in a proprietary design which converts lost energy from moving vehicles into continuous, reliable electric power. Aptly named, this system uses the kinetic energy of automobiles and trucks to generate electricity by means of a site-specific and flexible hydraulic system design. The beauty of the KinergyPower is in its simplicity.
While KinergyPower has many possible uses and adaptations, currently the most developed product is the KinergyPower carpet. This carpet or mat is composed of a series of continuous slats the width of a typical traffic lane. Generally, the efficiency (amount of power generated) of the KinergyPower carpet is a function of three key factors: traffic volume, average vehicle weight, and carpet length. The mat is modular and can be sized to meet the needs of the site or planned merchant power expectations. It can be mounted above grade or recessed to form a continuous travel surface. Clearly marked, the non-skid abrasive surface provides a safe travel path.
These slats are positioned in the KinergyPower carpet to minimize any impact to the vehicle and to mimic a flowing wave pattern rather than a series of bumps. These slats are supported by a number of interconnected micro pistons. In keeping with this flexible and adaptable design, even the size and surface area of the pistons can be selected to optimize the system’s efficiency. When activated at the points of contact, the hydraulic pistons are displaced by the weight of the vehicle through a closed-loop hydraulic system.
Hydraulic systems are one of the oldest, most reliable and well-recognized means of transferring energy. Fluids are hard to compress hence, energy is transmitted through hydraulic lines and pressure vessels for use in a variety of ways. When one considers that a person can use a hand lever hydraulic pump to move large objects, then it is obvious that the weight and momentum of automobiles and large trucks represent tremendous energy potential when combined with the same principles
As a vehicle traverses the length of a KinergyPower carpet, every axle depresses each slat. Each slat in turn, depresses a number of pistons designed to support the overall system requirements. When activated under a predetermined pressure charge and stroke, each piston displaces hydraulic fluid in volume equal to the weight of the vehicle at the point of contact. This fluid is advanced through hydraulic lines and stored in pressure vessels known as “accumulators”. These pressure vessels contain both fluid and compressible gas elements which allow the system to collect and store hydraulic fluid pressure and supply that pressure as needed to a hydraulic motor/generator. Once the fluid has progressed through the hydraulic motor/generator, the fluid is held at ambient atmosphere in a reservoir will be sent back immediately to the hydraulic pistons ready for the next activation cycle.
Every axle of the passing vehicle depresses each slat along the entire length of the Kinergy Mat. Each slat depresses a number of pistons designed to support the overall system requirements. Each piston displaces hydraulic fluid in an equal volume to its stroke. That fluid is advanced through hydraulic lines and stored in pressure vessels known as “accumulators”. These pressure vessels contain both fluid and compressible gas elements allowing the system to collect and store hydraulic fluid pressure and meter that pressure as needed to a hydraulic motor/generator. Once through the hydraulic motor/generator, the fluid is held at ambient atmosphere in a reservoir to be sent back to the mat to start its journey all over again. The KinergyPower System uses the same pressure differential as conventional power plants except hydraulics are used instead of steam.
Essentially, our KinergyPower system uses the same pressure differential as conventional power plants except hydraulics are used instead of steam.
Voltage, impedance, and phase will likewise be considered depending on whether the energy will be used by the site, transmitted to the grid, or both. Step up or step down transformers may be required to synchronize to an existing voltage if different from the generator. If the power is used by the site, the KinergyPower system can be connected to the main leg of the switch gear while offsite power will become its backup. The entire electrical system and connections are typically site-specific and will require customization to meet each situation.
All of the components used in a KinergyPower system are approved by the industry safety and fabrication standards while maintenance is supported by local labor force. Installation and implementation drawings illustrate its configuration while a bill of materials provides the quantity and description of materials used. Depending on the type of installation, some site work is to be expected. For flush installations, a recessed substrate capable of supporting the mat and its traffic loads must be constructed. Underground ductwork should also be considered to contain and conceal hydraulic lines. The operating hydraulic motor/generator, accumulators, and reservoir tank should be housed in a stand-alone building close to the mat and electric service connections. For larger facilities, load centers may lend opportunities for multiple and more compact system deployment.
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