The piezoelectric generator consists of three units: 1. Piezoelectric block: Made of layers of piezoceramic elements – 1.1 (manufactured, for instance, using Soft RZT type PIC 153 from the German company Physik Instrumente GmbH & Co. KG.) in round, square or other shape depending on the size of the elements. Each layer is positioned in relation to the previous one so that they are connected with the same poles. Between them there is a conductive layer or lamella ( 1.2 ). The latter are connected either in series or in a parallel circuit via cables so that the required working voltage of the generator can be achieved
The piezoelectric generator consists of three units: 2. Hydrotransformer (not part of the patent): used to increase the working pressure over the Piezoelectric block (up to bar, depending on the qualities of the used piezocrystal elements). Its dimensions are contingent on the water thrust and the working pressure of the piezoceramics. 2
The piezoelectric generator consists of three units: 3. Input-water pressure changing block: many constructive options. Displayed here is one with a rotating two-position valve ( 3.1 ). In position 1 it lets the water to the hydrotransformer by closing the exit pipe. In position 2 the valve blocks the water and opens the exit pipe. The valve is rotated by a small electric engine and its RPM are defined in accordance with the frequency of the generated electric current
The generator works in repeating cycles consisting of two strokes (positions of the rotating valve). During each stroke electric impulses are generated, but with different direction. The piezoelectric generator produces AC charge with a set voltage (depending on the connection of the lamellas) and a set frequency (depending on the valve’s RPM). Water under pressure Pressure-changing unit (rotating valve) Hydrotransformer Piezoelectric block generating electrical current Stroke 1
If need be, a passive electronic block can be used to correct the quality of the generated current. The used water has no pressure, but possesses kinetic energy which can be used with a different construction of the rotating valve without the need of an electric engine. Stroke 2 Used water Rotating valve Pistons Hydraulic oil or antifreeze Piezoelectric layers Conductive elements Body The piezoelectric generator is suitable for all types of hydroelectric power stations, flowing water with low pressure and for systems using residual pressure (thermal or nuclear power station condensers, chemical synthesis, etc.).
1.Significantly higher energy conversion efficiency: theoretically 67%, but the lab model achieved 72% 2.Exceptionally long life (up to 20 years proven so far, possibly longer) 3.Practically ZERO maintenance costs due to lack of moving parts. The only movement is in the rotating valve and it is ceramic.
4.Since the work pressure can be controlled through a hydrotransformer, the PG requires high-debit flowing water but with minimum thrust – i.e. no need for building dam walls. 5.The PG’s energy conversion efficiency is practically unchanged by the amount of water and its different thrust. 6. Lower manufacturing costs compared to those of turbines.