Clean Electricity from the Detroit River: A Novel Hydro-Generator

ME450 Capstone Design and Manufacturing Experience: Winter 2008The VIVACE (Vortex Induced Vibration Aquatic Clean Energy) hydroelectric converter is a device that can be implemented anywhere that there is fluid flow. It works by converting the energy produced by Vortex Induced Vibrations (VIV) into linear oscillation motion. This motion is then converted into electrical energy through a Power Take Off (PTO) system. Our goal was to come up with a design that is robust, cost-effective, scalable, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Our design is a linear induction generator that works by passing a magnet over a non-corrosive tube containing coiled wire. This produces an electrical current through electromagnetic induction which will then be used to produce power.Prof. Michael Bernitsashttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/58692/1/me450w08project10_report.pd