摘要 |
A water current power generation system comprises a turbine structure 2 capable of rotation relative to its sea or river bed support structure 3 to face the oncoming current flow. A yaw drive 5 comprises a toothless gear interface 8, 10 between the turbine and support structure. The interface may include a toothless pinion gear 8 and fixed gear 10, which may include macrofeatures such as ridges to aid traction. There may also be a clamp or mechanical lock to prevent yaw at higher flow speeds, which can be released at lower speeds when the yaw drive 5 is able to produce sufficient torque to rotate the turbine 2. The system may include position stops to control the final orientation of the turbine. |