Importance

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Abstract

A hydroelectric turbine and a method of using the turbine in an open body of water to produce electric power is described. A turbine has a large opening to allow a stream of water to pass through. The turbine is supported by a plurality of rubber tires such that a reaction force from the stream of water holds against the tires. A frame with a floatation chamber is used to lower the turbine into position in the stream of water, and to raise the turbine to a horizontal position on the surface of the body of water. The floatation chamber is partially filled with water to lower the turbine in the body of water such that an air pocket exists in the chamber to orient the turbine in a vertical position. When the chamber is purged of water, the turbine is raised to the surface. Rotation of the turbine drives the tires, which drive pumps to pump fluid to a motor, which drives an electric generator to produce power.

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First Claim