The Generator. This would be a brush-less permanent magnet type as this type can produce high currents at low revs and its "pancake" format is ideal for this device. The illustration shows the concept involved. Harnessing a large force at low speed may require some form of gearing as illustrated. However a small diameter HEB on a fast stream could perhaps drive the armature directly and benefit from the energy saving lost through gearing. A brush-less generator will of course require less maintenance and the vented "pancake" design facilitates cooling. The control electronics would be integrated into the generator and an external collection/storage/distribution device would be incorporated.
The Barrel Rotational molding is a likely manufacturing method for the barrel. This method of manufacture is used to produce common items such as plastic tanks or water butts. A rotationally ,molded above-ground water storage tank for example can be bought for a few hundred dollars.
Alternatively glass fibre could be used especially for prototyoing.
As the HEB is completely sealed it could be an option to install a valve to maintain slight internal pressure improving rigidity. This valve would vent during periods of hot weather to protect the barrel.
Some provision for screwing the generators onto the barrel must be made. Possibly captive nuts held on a ring could be molded into the barrel.
The Sling (support frame) This would be left to the developer but a common component is that the Swing tube is mounted above the height of the barrel. Shown here are 3 of our designs as examples, Depending on location, suitable river bank, average water speed or size of barrel. The single stanchion design could possibly have the capability to swing the barrel round on to the bank for cleaning and maintenance. The frames could incorporate navigation lights.
