Thomas M Pitts

US Patent:

48501905, Jul 25, 1989

Filed:

May 9, 1988

Appl. No.:

7/191569

Inventors:

Thomas H. Pitts - Anderson SC

International Classification:

F03B 1310

US Classification:

60398

Abstract:

A system and method for generating chemical energy from ocean current energy is disclosed which includes a unique suspension system having a support cable (10) submerged below the ocean surface in an isolation zone (Z) remote from the adverse influences of storms and hurricanes. Support cable (10) is submerged by a first anchor which includes guys (20), buoyancy chambers (30) and guy anchors (22). A second anchor is provided by generator cable assemblies (B) which suspend a plurality of electric energy generating units (A) and are anchored by means of suspension anchors (52). Buoyancy provided by modules (14,30,36) exert a buoyancy on the suspension system and provides that the basic components of the suspension system essentially support their own weight. In this manner, little or no weight is exerted on support cable (10) by the anchors and generating units suspended. Preferably, generating units (A) are arranged in a matrix of vertical and horizontal rows across the width and along the depth of the ocean current.