Energy Conversion System for Ocean Surface Waves

Abstract

An energy conversion system is an apparatus used to collect the kinetic energy of incoming ocean waves and to covert that kinetic energy into electrical energy. The apparatus includes a buoyant platform and a plurality of wave-energy capturing (WEC) units. The buoyant platform stays afloat upon the ocean surface. The WEC units are peripherally distributed about the buoyant platform, which allows the apparatus to collect to the kinetic energy from incoming ocean waves from any direction. Each WEC unit includes a cam mechanism, a recoiling mechanism, a cable, an anchor, a pinion, a transmission, and a generator. The cam mechanism converts the linear motion of the buoyant platform into rotational motion, which is fed into the pinion, through the transmission, and into the generator. The recoiling mechanism returns the cam mechanism to its equilibrium position. Each WEC unit is secured to the seabed through the anchor and the cable.

Description

[0001]The current application claims priority to a provisional application 61 / 988,037 filed on May 2, 2014.[0002]The current application is a continuation-in-part and claims priority to a non-provisional application Ser. No. 14 / 303,569 filed on Dec. 3, 2014. The non-provisional application Ser. No. 14 / 303,569 claims priority to a provisional application 61 / 973,796 filed on Apr. 1, 2014.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]The present invention relates generally to renewable energy and green energy systems. More specifically, the present invention is a renewable energy system based on ocean surface waves.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0004]Renewable energy systems involve the use of resources that are continuously replenished such as sunlight, wind, rain, oceanic tides and waves, and geothermal heat. Renewable energy systems are favorable due to their ability to provide sustainable energy with largely reduced impact on the environment. The reduced environmental impact of renewable energy systems...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Effectively converts ocean wave kinetic energy into electrical energy with reduced environmental impact, enhancing the utilization of renewable energy sources and minimizing energy waste through efficient energy storage and directional wave capture.

Problems solved by technology

However, this benefit comes at the cost of increased greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere from the combustion of fossil fuels.

Additionally, because fossil fuels generally form over millions of years, they are considered a non-renewable source of energy.

The problem is projected to worsen in the future as the Earth's population increases, leading to a corresponding increase in energy demand and consumption.

Numerous ecosystems of the Earth negatively affected by rising temperatures and increased atmospheric CO2 concentrations.

However, despite technological advancements in renewable energy systems in recent years, renewable energy systems remain underutilized.

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