摘要 |
A hydroelectric device wherein a water wheel having radial paddle boards is partially submerged in a moving stream of water, and driven by the water current to operate an electric generator. The water wheel has end discs at its respective sides to block escape of water from between the paddle boards. The paddle boards are normally disposed at right angles to the current flow, but if the water current should flow faster at one side of the wheel than at the other, the ends of the boards at the slow-current side may be shifted forwardly, or the ends thereof at the fast-current side may be shifted rearwardly, having reference to the direction of current flow, in order that a portion of the water impinging against the fast-current ends of the boards will be deflected to the slow-current side. This adjustment may be made either by shifting the position of the wheel relative to the water bodily, or by shifting the paddle boards relative to the wheel. Also, adjustable vent openings are provided in the end discs adjacent each paddle board, to bleed off excess water at the fast-current side in the event sufficient water cannot be shifted to the slow-current side by angling of the paddle boards.
|