External gas-liquid cabin and wave energy power generation device

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of marine renewable energy utilization technology, specifically disclosing an external gas-liquid tank and a wave energy power generation device. The external gas-liquid tank is configured on the outside of a buoy, and the wave energy power generation device includes a buoy, the external gas-liquid tank configured on the outside of the buoy, and an air turbine and generator system configured on the external gas-liquid tank. Configuring the external gas-liquid tank on the outside of the buoy does not occupy space on top of the buoy, and also facilitates the modification of existing marine buoys or floats to add wave energy power generation capabilities to supplement electricity supply. Since the modification of existing marine buoys or floats can be achieved with low cost and simple processes, it is conducive to the industrialization and promotion of the technology.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of marine renewable energy utilization technology, specifically to an external gas-liquid tank and wave energy power generation device. Background Technology

[0002] Ocean buoys are important carriers for marine observation and communication equipment. Since a sufficient power supply is essential for marine observation and communication, the current main method of powering ocean buoys is to use solar and wind power to power their batteries. However, because solar and wind power have low energy density and are unstable, they are often insufficient for the high power consumption of functional buoys.

[0003] Wave energy is a widely distributed, high-energy-density (more than 300 times that of solar energy and more than 80 times that of wind energy) and very stable renewable energy source (with an average annual utilization time of more than 5,000 hours). Therefore, using wave energy to power marine functional buoys is very valuable and significant.

[0004] Current wave energy development technologies (referring to the conversion of wave energy into electrical energy) mainly include oscillating buoy type, wave-overtaking type, and oscillating water column type. Typically, the oscillating buoy type relies on wave energy to propel a buoy, transferring the wave energy to energy conversion devices such as hydraulic motors to generate electricity. The wave-overtaking type directs waves to a higher elevation, allowing seawater to pass through a lower-level water turbine for energy conversion, ultimately converting the seawater's kinetic energy into electrical energy. The oscillating water column type converts wave energy into the kinetic energy of gas, and then further converts the gas's kinetic energy into electrical energy to generate electricity. Wave energy generation equipment operates at sea, and the fluctuations of seawater are significantly affected by weather and tides, necessitating stable and efficient operation of the equipment. Simultaneously, achieving high power generation efficiency is of paramount importance.

[0005] In the field of oscillating water column wave energy generation, for example, Chinese invention patent CN110406635A discloses a multi-stage power supply buoy with a central tube, and Chinese invention patent CN108843483A discloses a high-efficiency conical tube wave power generation device. Both of these devices construct a gas-liquid cavity by setting a central tube in the middle of the buoy that is much longer than the buoy itself. The drawbacks of this type of power generation device are that it has a complex structure, the long central tube has a low response and utilization rate to waves, and it cannot be modified based on existing buoys or floats to enable them to generate electricity. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This invention aims to provide an external gas-liquid chamber configurable on the outside of a floating body and a wave energy generation device including the external gas-liquid chamber. The technical solution provided by this invention is as follows: An external gas-liquid chamber is configured on the outside of a floating body. The external gas-liquid chamber has a gas-liquid cavity inside. The lower end of the gas-liquid cavity is open and configured so that liquid enters the gas-liquid cavity through the open and can fluctuate within the gas-liquid cavity. The upper end of the gas-liquid cavity has at least one vent and is configured so that a gas cavity is formed between the liquid surface in the gas-liquid cavity and the top of the gas-liquid cavity. The volume of the gas cavity changes with the fluctuation of the liquid in the gas-liquid cavity. The gas pressure in the gas cavity is adjusted with the volume change and forms a pressure difference with the gas pressure outside the vent. The pressure difference includes at least a first pressure difference and a second pressure difference. Under the action of the first pressure difference, a first airflow is formed flowing from the gas cavity to the outside of the vent. Under the action of the second pressure difference, a second airflow is formed flowing from the vent into the gas cavity.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment, the formation of the gas-liquid cavity includes at least:

[0008] The outer wall of the gas-liquid chamber is provided surrounding the outer wall of the float;

[0009] The inner wall of the gas-liquid tank or the outer wall of the float is disposed opposite to the outer wall of the gas-liquid tank, wherein the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank is adapted to the outer wall of the float; and

[0010] The upper wall of the gas-liquid tank has its outer side sealed to the top of the outer wall of the gas-liquid tank, and its inner side sealed to the upper end of the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank or the upper end of the outer wall of the float.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the formation of the gas-liquid cavity includes at least:

[0012] The inner wall of the gas-liquid chamber is adapted to fit the outer wall of part of the float;

[0013] The outer wall of the gas-liquid chamber, and the inner wall of the gas-liquid chamber are arranged opposite to each other;

[0014] A gas-liquid tank sidewall, which is used to connect the ends of the gas-liquid tank inner wall and the gas-liquid tank outer wall;

[0015] The upper wall of the gas-liquid chamber is sealed to the upper end of the inner wall, outer wall, and side wall of the gas-liquid chamber.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the gas-liquid chamber is formed by at least a cylindrical gas-liquid chamber outer wall and a gas-liquid chamber upper wall covering the upper end of the gas-liquid chamber cylindrical wall, the vent is provided on the gas-liquid chamber upper wall, and a connecting structure is provided between the outer wall of the float and the outer wall of the gas-liquid chamber.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the gas-liquid chamber is further divided into several non-communicating gas-liquid chambers, each of which is provided with at least one vent.

[0018] The external gas-liquid chamber disclosed herein has the following technical advantages compared with existing technologies:

[0019] (1) The external gas-liquid tank is an independent structure that can be configured around existing buoys or floats. It can be installed on existing marine buoys or floats that are already in normal operation, and in conjunction with air turbines and generator systems, it can enable existing marine buoys or floats to generate wave energy to supplement the power supply. Since the modification of existing marine buoys or floats can be achieved with low cost and simple process, it is conducive to the industrialization and promotion of the technology.

[0020] (2) Since the external gas-liquid tank is installed on the outside of the ocean buoy or float, it will not occupy the space on the top of the existing ocean buoy or float, that is, it will not affect the structural layout and function of the top of the existing ocean buoy or float.

[0021] (3) Since the external gas-liquid tank can be installed as an independent structure around the existing marine buoy or float, the size of the gas-liquid tank can be selected according to the size of the existing marine buoy or float at the beginning of the design, so as to accurately control the amount of wave energy absorbed, thereby realizing the control of power generation.

[0022] A wave energy generation device, comprising at least:

[0023] floating body;

[0024] An external gas-liquid tank is disposed on the outside of the float;

[0025] An air turbine is installed at a vent and configured to communicate with a gas chamber through the vent, and the air turbine is configured to do work under the action of the pressure difference.

[0026] A generator connected to and configured to generate electricity by utilizing the work done by the air turbine.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the lower end face of the float protrudes beyond the lower end face of the external gas-liquid chamber.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, a counterweight is further included, which is disposed at the lower part of the buoy.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, a damping structure is further included, the damping structure being disposed below the float, and a connecting device is provided between the damping structure and the lower part of the float.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, the damping structure includes a damping base plate, a damping side plate surrounding the damping base plate, and a damping reinforcing plate connected to the damping base plate and the damping side plate respectively.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, the float is configured to be weight-adjustable, and at least one liquid storage tank is provided at the bottom of the float. The liquid storage tank is equipped with a water inlet system, a drainage system, and a controller for controlling the operation of the water inlet system and the drainage system.

[0032] The wave energy generation device disclosed herein has the following technical advantages compared with the prior art:

[0033] (1) The external gas-liquid chamber is located on the outside of the float. It can be processed as an integral part of the float or processed separately from the float and then assembled together. Its production method is flexible and it is also conducive to the modification of existing marine buoys or floats. Based on the lower modification cost and simpler modification process, it is conducive to the industrial application of the wave energy power generation device.

[0034] (2) Since the external gas-liquid tank is located on the outside of the float, it does not occupy the space at the top of the float, and the space at the top of the float can be utilized to the maximum extent.

[0035] (3) The damping structure helps to increase the amplitude of the relative motion of seawater in the gas-liquid cavity;

[0036] (4) The liquid storage tank can change the mass of the floating body according to the change of the environment, thereby changing the natural frequency of the overall structure, so as to resonate with the waves and improve the absorption efficiency of wave energy. Attached Figure Description

[0037] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings of the embodiments will be briefly described below. Obviously, the drawings described below only relate to some embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0038] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of the external gas-liquid chamber in Embodiment 1 of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 1B This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the external gas-liquid chamber in Embodiment 1 of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 1C This is a partial cross-sectional view of the external gas-liquid chamber in Embodiment 1 of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 2A This is a schematic diagram of the external structure of the external gas-liquid chamber in Embodiment 2 of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 2B This is a partial cross-sectional view of the external gas-liquid chamber in Embodiment 2 of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram of the wave energy generation device in Embodiment 4 of this disclosure. In this embodiment, an external gas-liquid chamber as shown in Embodiment 1 is configured.

[0044] Figure 3B for Figure 3A A schematic diagram of a partial vertical cross-sectional structure of the wave energy generation device shown.

[0045] Figure 3C This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the air turbine and generator system in the wave energy power generation device shown in Embodiment 4 of this disclosure.

[0046] Figure 3D for Figure 3A The diagram shows a partial structural schematic of the wave energy power generation device after concealing the air turbine and generator system.

[0047] Figure 3E This is a structural schematic diagram of an equivalent embodiment of the wave energy power generation device shown in Embodiment 4 of this disclosure. In this embodiment, the floating body is a square column structure, and the corresponding external gas-liquid chamber is a square ring structure.

[0048] Figure 3F This is a structural schematic diagram of an equivalent embodiment of the wave energy power generation device shown in Embodiment 4 of this disclosure. In this embodiment, the float is a cylindrical structure, and the outer wall of the external gas-liquid tank is a conical structure.

[0049] Figure 3G This is a structural schematic diagram of an equivalent embodiment of the wave energy power generation device shown in Embodiment 4 of this disclosure. In this embodiment, the float is a cylindrical structure, and the external gas-liquid chamber includes a cylindrical section and a conical section.

[0050] Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram of the wave energy generation device in Embodiment 5 of this disclosure. In this embodiment, an external gas-liquid chamber as shown in Embodiment 2 is configured.

[0051] Figure 4B for Figure 4A A schematic diagram of the structure of the floating body in the wave energy generation device shown;

[0052] Figure 5A This is a schematic diagram of the wave energy generation device shown in Embodiment Six of this disclosure. In this embodiment, an external gas-liquid tank as shown in Embodiment Three is configured on the outside of the float.

[0053] Figure 5B for Figure 5A A partial cross-sectional view of the wave energy generation device shown.

[0054] Figure 6A This is a schematic diagram of the wave energy generation device shown in Embodiment 7 of this disclosure. The damping structure of the wave energy generation device is connected by rigid connecting columns.

[0055] Figure 6B This is a schematic diagram of the wave energy generation device shown in Embodiment 8 of this disclosure. The damping structure of the wave energy generation device is connected by a non-rigid connecting rope.

[0056] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the wave energy power generation device shown in Embodiment 9 of this disclosure. In this wave energy power generation device, the float is provided with a liquid storage tank.

[0057] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the wave energy power generation device shown in Embodiment 10 of this disclosure. The upper part of the floating body in the wave energy power generation device is provided with an equipment platform, a solar power generation system and a wind power generation system. Detailed Implementation

[0058] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention.

[0059] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0060] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation", "connection" and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, an integral connection, or a detachable connection; they can refer to the internal connection of two components; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0061] Example 1

[0062] An external gas-liquid chamber according to this embodiment has the following structure: Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 1C As shown, it is used to configure and install on the outside of the float (also known as a marine buoy).

[0063] like Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C As shown, the external gas-liquid chamber 3 of this embodiment has an annular gas-liquid chamber inner wall 305, a gas-liquid chamber outer wall 302 disposed opposite to the gas-liquid chamber inner wall 305, and a gas-liquid chamber upper wall 301 whose upper ends are sealed and connected to both the gas-liquid chamber inner wall 305 and the gas-liquid chamber outer wall 302.

[0064] The upper wall 301 of the gas-liquid chamber has two vents 310 evenly distributed in the circumferential direction. It should be noted that configuring two vents 310 is only a preferred embodiment of this invention. In practice, depending on the size of the external gas-liquid chamber, only one or more vents may be configured.

[0065] In this embodiment, the vent 310 is used to install the air turbine and generator system. The air turbine and generator system adopts existing technology, and its specific structure will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0066] In this embodiment, the annular gas-liquid tank inner wall 305 is used to surround the float and is adapted to the outer wall of the float. The gas-liquid tank inner wall 305 and the outer wall of the float can be fixed by welding or by bolt connection or other corresponding connection structures.

[0067] In this embodiment, as Figure 1C As shown, the inner wall 305 of the gas-liquid chamber, the outer wall 302 of the gas-liquid chamber, and the upper wall 301 of the gas-liquid chamber constitute a gas-liquid chamber 309. The lower end of the gas-liquid chamber 309 is open and configured so that liquid enters the gas-liquid chamber 309 from the opening and can fluctuate within the gas-liquid chamber 309. The vent 310 is connected to the gas-liquid chamber 309.

[0068] When the external gas-liquid chamber 3 of this embodiment is configured outside the float, the gas-liquid chamber 309 is connected to seawater through the opening at its lower end, and the seawater oscillates and fluctuates within the gas-liquid chamber 309 under the action of waves. Figure 1C As shown, in this embodiment, after the liquid (seawater) enters the gas-liquid chamber 309 through the lower opening, as... Figure 1C As shown by the middle arrow, a liquid surface is formed in the gas-liquid cavity 309, and a gas cavity 311 is formed between the liquid surface and the top of the gas-liquid cavity. The volume of the gas cavity 311 changes with the fluctuation of the liquid in the gas-liquid cavity 309. The gas pressure in the gas cavity 311 is adjusted with the volume change and forms a pressure difference with the gas pressure outside the vent 310. The pressure difference includes at least a first pressure difference and a second pressure difference. Under the action of the first pressure difference, a first airflow is formed from the gas cavity 311 to the outside of the vent 310, and under the action of the second pressure difference, a second airflow is formed from the vent 310 to the gas cavity 311.

[0069] A preferred embodiment, such as Figure 1B , Figure 1CAs shown, there are multiple reinforcing plates 303 between the inner wall 305 and the outer wall 302 of the gas-liquid tank, which are used to connect the inner wall 305 and the outer wall 302 of the gas-liquid tank.

[0070] Preferably, the reinforcing plate 303 is welded and fixed to the inner wall 305 and the outer wall 302 of the gas-liquid tank, respectively. Of course, bolted connections or other types of connection structures can also be used for fixing.

[0071] As a preferred option, such as Figure 1C As shown, there is a certain gap 312 between the top of the reinforcing plate 303 and the upper wall 301 of the gas-liquid cavity to ensure air circulation on both sides of the reinforcing plate.

[0072] A preferred embodiment, such as Figure 1B As shown, multiple partition plates 304 can also be provided inside the gas-liquid chamber 309. These partition plates 304 are respectively sealed to the inner wall 305 of the gas-liquid chamber, the outer wall 302 of the gas-liquid chamber, and the upper wall 304 of the gas-liquid chamber. The partition plates 304 divide the gas-liquid chamber 309 into several sub-gas-liquid chambers, each of which is equipped with a vent 310. In this embodiment, two partition plates 304 divide the gas-liquid chamber 309 into two sub-gas-liquid chambers.

[0073] Example 2

[0074] An external gas-liquid chamber according to this embodiment has the following structure: Figure 2A , Figure 2B As shown, it is used to configure and install on the outside of the float (also known as a marine buoy). The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that it is not completely surrounding the outside of the float, but is configured on part of the outer wall of the float; that is, the external gas-liquid chamber is not annular.

[0075] The external gas-liquid chamber 3 in this embodiment, such as Figure 2A , Figure 2B As shown, it includes an inner wall 305 of the gas-liquid chamber adapted to a portion of the outer wall of the float, an outer wall 302 of the gas-liquid chamber disposed opposite to the inner wall 305, a side wall 306 of the gas-liquid chamber for connecting the ends of the inner wall 305 and the outer wall 302, and an upper wall 301 of the gas-liquid chamber that is sealed and connected to the upper ends of the inner wall 305, the outer wall 302, and the side wall 306.

[0076] In this embodiment, a vent 310 is provided on the upper wall 301 of the gas-liquid chamber. It should be noted that configuring one vent 310 is only a preferred embodiment of this embodiment. In practice, more than one vent can be configured depending on the size of the external gas-liquid chamber.

[0077] In this embodiment, the vent 310 is used to install the air turbine and generator system. The air turbine and generator system adopts existing technology, and its specific structure will not be described in detail in this embodiment.

[0078] In this embodiment, the inner wall 305 of the gas-liquid tank and the outer wall of the float can be fixed by welding or by bolt connection or other corresponding connection structures.

[0079] In this embodiment, as Figure 2B As shown, the inner wall 305, outer wall 302, side wall 306, and upper wall 301 of the gas-liquid chamber constitute a gas-liquid chamber 309, which has an open lower end. When the external gas-liquid chamber 3 of this embodiment is positioned outside the float, the gas-liquid chamber 309 communicates with seawater through the lower opening, and the seawater oscillates and fluctuates within the gas-liquid chamber 309 under the action of waves.

[0080] In this process, the liquid (seawater) enters the gas-liquid chamber 309 through the lower opening, and then... Figure 2B As shown by the middle arrow, a liquid surface is formed in the gas-liquid cavity 309, and a gas cavity 311 is formed between the liquid surface and the top of the gas-liquid cavity. The volume of the gas cavity 311 changes with the fluctuation of the liquid in the gas-liquid cavity. The gas pressure in the gas cavity 311 is adjusted with the volume change and forms a pressure difference with the gas pressure outside the vent 310. The pressure difference includes at least a first pressure difference and a second pressure difference. Under the action of the first pressure difference, a first airflow is formed from the gas cavity 311 to the outside of the vent 310, and under the action of the second pressure difference, a second airflow is formed from the vent 310 to the gas cavity 311.

[0081] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the gas-liquid cavity 309 may also be provided with a reinforcing plate 303 and a partition plate 304 as described in Embodiment 1, and their functions are the same as in Embodiment 1.

[0082] Embodiments 1 and 2 of this disclosure can be directly configured on the outside of existing floating bodies in use, and in conjunction with air turbines and generator systems, enable existing marine buoys or floating bodies to add wave energy generation capabilities to supplement the power supply.

[0083] Because of its low cost and simple modification process, this type of modification of existing marine buoys or floats is of great significance for the industrialization and promotion of the technology. Currently, a large portion of the marine buoys in use are powered by wind and solar energy. Given the low density and instability of wind and solar energy, adding wave energy generation capabilities to the existing buoys without affecting their performance, thus achieving multi-energy complementarity and ensuring the normal operation of the buoys, is of great value.

[0084] Example 3

[0085] An external gas-liquid chamber 3 in this embodiment has the following structure: Figure 5A , Figure 5B As shown, it is used to configure and install on the outside of float 2 (also known as ocean buoy).

[0086] like Figure 5A , Figure 5B As shown, the external gas-liquid chamber 3 of this embodiment includes a cylindrical gas-liquid chamber outer wall 302 and a gas-liquid chamber upper wall 301 covering the upper end of the gas-liquid chamber outer wall 302. The gas-liquid chamber upper wall 301 is provided with a vent 310, which is used to install the air turbine and generator system 1.

[0087] like Figure 5B As shown, in this embodiment, a gas-liquid chamber 309 is formed inside the outer wall 302 and the upper wall 301 of the cylindrical gas-liquid chamber. The lower end of the gas-liquid chamber 309 is open and configured so that liquid enters the gas-liquid chamber 309 from the opening and can fluctuate within the gas-liquid chamber 309. The vent 310 is connected to the gas-liquid chamber 309.

[0088] When the external gas-liquid chamber 3 of this embodiment is positioned outside the float 2, the gas-liquid chamber 309 communicates with seawater through its lower opening, and the seawater oscillates and fluctuates within the gas-liquid chamber 309 under the influence of waves. Figure 5B As shown, in this embodiment, after the liquid (seawater) enters the gas-liquid chamber 309 through the lower opening, as... Figure 5B As shown by the middle arrow, a liquid surface is formed in the gas-liquid cavity 309, and a gas cavity 311 is formed between the liquid surface and the top of the gas-liquid cavity. The volume of the gas cavity 311 changes with the fluctuation of the liquid in the gas-liquid cavity 309. The gas pressure in the gas cavity 311 is adjusted with the volume change and forms a pressure difference with the gas pressure outside the vent 310. The pressure difference includes at least a first pressure difference and a second pressure difference. Under the action of the first pressure difference, a first airflow is formed from the gas cavity 311 to the outside of the vent 310, and under the action of the second pressure difference, a second airflow is formed from the vent 310 to the gas cavity 311.

[0089] In this embodiment, as Figure 5A As shown, the external gas-liquid tank 3 is connected to the outside of the float via a connecting structure 203. Typically, multiple external gas-liquid tanks 3 of this embodiment are evenly distributed around the outside of the float 2. The connecting structure can be used to fix the external gas-liquid tank and the float by welding, or other existing connection methods such as bolts.

[0090] Compared with Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, the external gas-liquid tank 3 operates on the same principle, but has a stronger structural independence. Its installation on the outside of existing floats or buoys is simpler, which is of greater significance for the industrialization and promotion of the technology.

[0091] Example 4

[0092] This embodiment discloses a wave energy generation device, such as... Figure 3A As shown, the device includes a float 2, an external gas-liquid tank 3 surrounding the float 2, and two sets of air turbine and generator systems 1 mounted on the external gas-liquid tank 3. In this embodiment, the wave energy generation device is fixed in the ocean by an anchor chain 7 and an anchor body 9. The bottom of the float is provided with a connecting part 8, and the upper end of the anchor chain 7 is connected to this connecting part 8.

[0093] The float 2 is made of steel, other organic polymer materials, or metal materials, and is generally hollow, but may also be filled with lightweight waterproof material. Typically, the mass of the float is three to five times its maximum buoyancy. The function of the float is to generate buoyancy and carry other equipment such as gas and liquid tanks.

[0094] In this embodiment, the external gas-liquid tank 3 adopts the external gas-liquid tank described in Embodiment 1. That is, in this embodiment, the external gas-liquid tank 3 adopts the structure of the type shown in Embodiment 1, and is arranged around the float 2.

[0095] In this embodiment, the external gas-liquid tank 3 and the float 2 can be an integrated structure, for example... Figure 3B The disclosed structural form. In this integrated structure, the inner wall of the external gas-liquid tank and the outer wall of the float 2 shown in Embodiment 1 can be separate structures, for example, connected as one unit by welding; the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank and the outer wall of the float 2 can also be an integrated structure, that is, the side wall serves as both the outer wall of the float 2 and the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank.

[0096] Of course, in this embodiment, the external gas-liquid tank 3 and the float 2 can also adopt a split structure, that is, the two are produced separately and then fixed together by assembly.

[0097] In this embodiment, as a preferred option, Figure 3C As shown, a vent pipe 5 is installed at the vent 310, as... Figure 3D As shown, a connecting flange 501 is provided at the upper end of the vent pipe 5. The air turbine and generator system 1 is installed on the connecting flange 501.

[0098] The following is combined with Figure 3B , Figure 3C This section details the basic process of wave power generation. Among other things, in... Figure 3CIn the air turbine and generator system 1 shown, the air turbine is a unidirectional impulse air turbine.

[0099] In this embodiment, an air turbine is connected to a gas chamber 311 through a vent 310. The air turbine is configured to perform work under the pressure difference, and the generator uses the work done by the air turbine to generate electricity. Specifically, under the action of waves, the seawater in the gas-liquid chamber 309 moves up and down. When the seawater in the gas-liquid chamber 309 moves upward, the volume of the gas chamber 311 is compressed, and the air inside it is compressed. At this time, the atmospheric pressure inside the gas chamber 311 is greater than the atmospheric pressure outside the vent 310, thereby forming a first pressure difference. Under the action of the first pressure difference, a first airflow is formed from the gas chamber 311 to the outside of the vent 310.

[0100] The first airflow enters the valve box 106 through the vent pipe 5. At this time, the air pressure inside the valve box 106 is also greater than the external atmospheric pressure. Therefore, under the action of this pressure difference, the rectifier plate 107 is in close contact with the inner wall of the valve box 106, blocking the valve box opening 108. This causes the airflow to continue upward. After being accelerated and changed direction by the guide cone 105 and the stator 104, the high-speed airflow is ejected onto the blades of the rotor 103, thereby driving the rotor 103 to rotate. Finally, it drives the generator 102 connected to the rotor 103 to rotate and generate electricity, realizing the process of converting wave energy into electrical energy.

[0101] When the seawater in the gas-liquid chamber 309 moves downward, the volume of the gas chamber 311 increases, and the atmospheric pressure inside it is less than the atmospheric pressure outside the vent 310, thus forming a second pressure difference. Under the action of the second pressure difference, a second airflow is formed from the vent 310 into the gas chamber 311. Under the action of this second airflow, the gas pressure in the valve box 106 is lower than the external atmospheric pressure. At this time, the external atmosphere will push the rectifier plate 107 and enter the valve box 106 through the valve box opening 108, and then enter the gas chamber 311 through the vent pipe 5, storing enough gas for the next upward power generation.

[0102] In this embodiment, as Figure 3C As shown, the bottom of the air turbine has a bottom flange 109, through which the air turbine and generator system 1 are mounted on the connecting flange 501.

[0103] It should be noted that the unidirectional impulse air turbine and generator used in this embodiment are existing technologies and will not be described in detail here. Furthermore, the unidirectional impulse air turbine in this embodiment is installed by using a first airflow to do work, and when the unidirectional impulse air turbine is installed in the opposite direction, it uses a second airflow to do work.

[0104] Of course, air turbines can also be Wells turbines, bidirectional impulse turbines, or any other type of air turbine that can be used in oscillating water column wave energy power generation devices.

[0105] As a preferred option, such as Figure 3C As shown, the air turbine and generator system 1 in this embodiment is provided with a protective cap 101 on top to protect the air turbine and generator system 1.

[0106] As a preferred option, such as Figure 3C , Figure 3D As shown, in this embodiment, a wave deflector 4 connected to the connecting flange 501 is provided around the air turbine. The wave deflector 4 is used to protect the air turbine and generator system 1 from direct impact by waves.

[0107] In this embodiment, as Figure 3A As shown, a counterweight 6 is also provided at the bottom of the float 2 to lower the center of gravity of the float and make the float more stable.

[0108] In this embodiment, the lower end face of the float 2 can be flush with the lower end face of the external gas-liquid tank, or it can be configured such that the lower end face of the float 2 protrudes beyond the lower end face of the external gas-liquid tank 3, or the lower end face of the gas-liquid tank is lower than the lower end face of the float.

[0109] As a preferred embodiment, in this case, Figure 3B As shown, the lower end of the float 2 protrudes beyond the lower end of the external gas-liquid tank 3. The float portion floats in the ocean, providing buoyancy for the entire wave power generation device. Under the influence of waves, the size of the lower end of the float submerged in seawater changes, but it will not completely detach from the sea surface. Generally, at least one-quarter of the float's vertical height remains submerged in seawater. For the gas-liquid tank, its lowest point must be higher than the lower end of the float portion but lower than one-quarter of the float's height to ensure that the lower end of the gas-liquid tank remains submerged in seawater.

[0110] The beneficial effects of this configuration are: (1) saving materials and reducing mass, making it easier for the wave energy power generation device to generate vertical movement under the action of waves, thus improving the wave energy absorption efficiency; (2) the lowest end of the gas-liquid tank is moved upward, reducing the portion of the outer wall of the gas-liquid tank immersed in seawater, thereby reducing the reflection effect of the outer wall of the gas-liquid tank on waves, thus allowing more waves to enter the gas-liquid tank to do work. In this embodiment, the wave energy power generation device, since the external gas-liquid tank is configured on the outside of the float, can be manufactured integrally with the float or manufactured separately from the float and combined by assembly. Its production method is flexible and it is also conducive to the modification of existing marine buoys or floats. Based on the lower modification cost and simpler modification process, it is conducive to the industrial application of this wave energy power generation device.

[0111] In this embodiment, the external gas-liquid chamber is positioned on the outside of the float, essentially providing a shock-absorbing device. During typhoons with large waves, the violently moving waves relative to the float will first enter the gas-liquid chamber. This chamber contains a large amount of compressible air that is released through an air turbine, preventing the waves from violently rising. The upward force of the waves is slowly released within the gas-liquid chamber via the air turbine and generator system, thus preventing a sudden increase in buoyancy and avoiding the violent movements that could cause the float to be tossed up by the waves, damaging the device itself and the equipment mounted on it. Furthermore, when the wave energy generator tilts under the influence of waves, the air in the lower gas-liquid chamber is compressed more significantly, generating more upward force. This prevents the wave energy generator from tilting further, assisting it in returning to its normal position and reducing the tilt amplitude of the wave energy generator.

[0112] It should be noted that, in this embodiment, as Figure 3A , Figure 3B as well as Figure 3D As shown, the float 2 is a cylindrical structure, and the corresponding external gas-liquid tank 3 is a ring-shaped structure.

[0113] As an equivalent alternative implementation, such as Figure 3E As shown, the float 2 can be a square column structure, and correspondingly, the external gas-liquid tank 3 is also a square ring structure.

[0114] As another equivalent alternative implementation, such as Figure 3F As shown, the float 2 has a cylindrical structure, and the corresponding external gas-liquid tank 3 has a conical structure. In this embodiment, the outer wall 302 of the gas-liquid tank has a conical structure.

[0115] As another equivalent alternative implementation, such as Figure 3G As shown, the float 2 has a cylindrical structure, and the external gas-liquid tank 3 includes a cylindrical section and a conical section. The outer wall of the gas-liquid tank includes an upper cylindrical outer wall 3021 and a lower conical outer wall 3022.

[0116] Of course, the external shape of the external gas-liquid chamber 3 described above is only a feasible equivalent implementation, but it is not a limitation of this application. The external shape of the external gas-liquid chamber 3 can also be other equivalent alternative shapes.

[0117] Example 5

[0118] The following will combine Figure 4A , Figure 4B as well as Figure 2A This embodiment will be described.

[0119] The difference between this embodiment and embodiment four is that, as Figure 4A , Figure 4B as well as Figure 2A As shown, the external gas-liquid tank 3 is not a closed ring structure. It adopts the type of external gas-liquid tank structure shown in Embodiment 2 and is configured on part of the outer wall of the float 2.

[0120] In this embodiment, the external gas-liquid tank 3 and the float 2 can be either an integrated structure or a separate structure, that is, they are manufactured separately and then assembled together.

[0121] This embodiment discloses a wave energy generation device in which the external gas-liquid tank 3 and the float 2 are assembled separately. As shown in the figure. Figure 4B and Figure 2A As shown, the connection structure between the external gas-liquid tank 3 and the float 2 includes a first connecting plate 201 protruding from the outer wall of the float and a second connecting plate 308 disposed outside the side wall 306 of the gas-liquid tank. The first connecting plate 201 and the second connecting plate 308 are provided with a plurality of corresponding bolt connection holes, through which bolt fixing connection between the two is realized.

[0122] Of course, bolt connection is only a preferred method of connection, and other equivalent connection methods can also be used to achieve the connection between the two.

[0123] To ensure proper positioning of the external gas-liquid tank 3 and the float 2 before connection, the connection structure between the external gas-liquid tank 3 and the float 2 also includes a guide positioning structure disposed between the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank and the outer wall of the float. In a preferred embodiment, the guide positioning structure includes a guide limiting plate 202 disposed on the outer wall of the float and a guide limiting groove 307 disposed on the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank. Alternatively, the guide limiting groove can also be disposed on the outer wall of the float, and the guide limiting plate can also be disposed on the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank.

[0124] In this embodiment, as Figure 4A As shown, Figure 2A A vent pipe 5 is installed at the vent 310 shown. This vent pipe 5 is used to install the air turbine and generator system. A wave deflector 4 is also provided around the vent pipe 5. It should be noted that the operation and power generation principle of the wave energy power generation device in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiment 4.

[0125] Example 6

[0126] The difference between this embodiment and embodiment four is that, as Figure 5A , 5B As shown, the external gas-liquid chamber described in Example 3 is used.

[0127] In this embodiment, the external gas-liquid tank 3 is connected to the outside of the float via a connecting structure 203. Typically, multiple external gas-liquid tanks 3 of this embodiment are evenly distributed around the outside of the float. The connecting structure can be used to fix the external gas-liquid tank and the float by welding, or other existing connection methods such as bolts.

[0128] In this embodiment, as Figure 5B As shown, a vent pipe 5 is installed at the vent 310. This vent pipe 5 is used to install the air turbine and generator system. A wave deflector 4 is also provided around the vent pipe 5. It should be noted that the operation and power generation principle of the wave energy power generation device in this embodiment are the same as those in Embodiments 4 and 5.

[0129] Example 7

[0130] The difference between this embodiment and embodiments four, five, and six is ​​that, as Figure 6A As shown, no counterweight is provided at the bottom of the float 2. Correspondingly, a damping structure 12 is provided below the float 2.

[0131] One preferred damping structure 12 is, for example... Figure 6A As shown, the structure includes a damping base plate 1201, damping side plates 1202 surrounding the damping base plate 1201, and a plurality of damping reinforcing plates 1203 connected to the damping base plate 1201 and the damping side plates 1202 respectively. The damping base plate 1201 and the damping side plates 1202 form a flat barrel-shaped structure, and the function of the damping reinforcing plates 1203 is to increase the strength of the entire damping structure.

[0132] A connecting device is provided between the float 2 and the damping structure 12. A preferred connecting device is, for example... Figure 6A As shown, the connecting device is a rigid connecting column 11. The upper end of the rigid connecting column 11 is fixedly connected to the float 2, and the lower end of the rigid connecting column 11 is connected to the damping structure 12. It should be noted that the rigid connecting column 11 can be either a solid rod structure or a hollow tubular structure.

[0133] In this embodiment, the damping structure 12 is present to generate more vertical resistance, making the relative motion between the seawater and the gas-liquid cavity more intense, thereby absorbing more wave energy. Its working principle is as follows: vertically downwards from sea level, the wave force is almost negligible at depths of two wavelengths. Therefore, this device places the damping structure 12 in relatively deep seawater via a connecting device, preventing it from being subjected to upward or downward wave forces and avoiding synchronous movement of the wave energy generator under wave action. This generates resistance when the wave energy generator as a whole moves vertically, enhancing the relative motion between the seawater and the gas-liquid cavity.

[0134] Example 8

[0135] This embodiment provides a wave energy generation device, such as... Figure 6B As shown, this is based on Embodiments 4, 5, and 6, with the addition of a damping structure 12. The position of the damping structure 12 is as shown in Embodiment 7, and it is positioned below the float via a connecting device; the structure of the damping structure 12 can also be the same as in Embodiment 7.

[0136] The difference between this embodiment and embodiment seven is as follows: First, the connecting device in embodiment seven is a rigid connecting column 11, while in this embodiment, the connecting device is a non-rigid connecting rope 1802; Second, no counterweight is provided in embodiment seven, while in this embodiment, such as Figure 6B As shown, a counterweight 6 is installed at the bottom of the float.

[0137] The connection device in this embodiment, such as Figure 6B As shown, the connecting device is a non-rigid connecting rope 1802. The upper end of the non-rigid connecting rope 1802 is fixedly connected to the float 2 via an upper connecting ring 1801, and the lower end of the non-rigid connecting rope 1802 is fixedly connected to the damping structure 12 via a lower connecting ring 1803.

[0138] It should be noted that the aforementioned non-rigid connecting rope 1802 can be either a wire rope or a chain.

[0139] Among them, the connection of the non-rigid connecting rope 1802 is less expensive and more flexible in use compared with the form of the rigid connecting column 11, thus making the wave energy power generation device smaller in size.

[0140] Example 9

[0141] This embodiment discloses a wave energy generation device, such as... Figure 7 As shown, based on Embodiments 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8, a liquid storage device 14 may be provided at the bottom of the float 2. The liquid storage device includes at least one liquid storage tank, which is equipped with a water inlet system, a drainage system and a controller 13 for controlling the operation of the water inlet system and the drainage system.

[0142] This embodiment is a preferred implementation, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the liquid storage device 14 has three liquid storage chambers arranged from top to bottom, namely the first liquid storage chamber 1401, the second liquid storage chamber 1402 and the third liquid storage chamber 1403.

[0143] Taking the uppermost first liquid storage tank 1401 as an example, the first liquid storage tank 1401 is a sealed small compartment composed of a first liquid storage tank partition 14015 and a second liquid storage tank partition 14025. Within this small compartment are installed a first water suction pump 14011, a first water discharge pump 14013, a first water suction pipe 14012, and a first water discharge pipe 14014. One end of the first water suction pipe 14012 is connected to external seawater through an opening on the float 2, and the other end is connected to the first water suction pump 14011. One end of the first water discharge pipe 14014 is connected to external seawater through an opening on the float 2, and the other end is connected to the first water discharge pump 14013. Under the control of the controller 13, the first suction pump 14011 and the first drainage pump 14013, as well as other inlet and drainage pumps, sequentially add water from the bottom third liquid storage tank 1403 upwards according to the external wave conditions; or sequentially drain water from the top first liquid storage tank 1401.

[0144] In this embodiment, the overall mass of the wave energy generation device is altered by adding and draining water from the storage tank. The beneficial effects of this structure are: 1. During extreme weather events such as typhoons, adding water to the storage tank lowers the device's center of gravity, reducing the portion of the wave energy generation device exposed above the sea surface, thus minimizing damage from extreme weather. 2. The natural frequency of the wave energy generation device is related to its mass. When the natural frequency of the wave energy generation device is close to the wave frequency, resonance is achieved, resulting in optimal wave energy absorption. Therefore, after receiving information about external waves, the controller adjusts the addition or drainage of water from the storage tank to change the device's mass, thereby bringing the device's natural frequency closer to the frequency of the external waves. Ultimately, this allows the wave energy generation device to resonate with the external environment, maximizing wave energy absorption efficiency.

[0145] Example 10

[0146] Since the external gas-liquid tank is located on the outside of the float, it does not occupy the space at the top of the float, and the space at the top of the float can be utilized to the maximum extent.

[0147] In this embodiment, as Figure 8 As shown, based on Embodiments 4 to 9, a solar power generation system 16 and a wind power generation system 17 are configured on the top of the float 2 to achieve multi-energy complementarity and further improve the performance and service life of the wave energy power generation device.

[0148] In addition, in this embodiment, an equipment support frame 1501 is installed on the top of the float, and an equipment platform 1502 is installed on the equipment support frame 1501, thereby achieving the purpose of carrying more equipment.

[0149] In summary, the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An external gas-liquid tank, characterized by, The external gas-liquid chamber is an independent structure designed for placement on the outside of the float. An internal gas-liquid chamber contains a gas-liquid cavity. The lower end of the gas-liquid cavity is open, allowing liquid to enter and fluctuate within it. At least one vent is located at the upper end of the gas-liquid cavity, forming a gas chamber between the liquid surface and the top of the gas-liquid cavity. The volume of the gas chamber changes with the fluctuation of the liquid within it. The gas pressure within the gas chamber is adjusted according to the volume change and forms a pressure difference with the pressure outside the vent. This pressure difference includes at least a first pressure difference and a second pressure difference. Under the action of the first pressure difference, a first airflow is formed from the gas chamber to the outside of the vent, and under the action of the second pressure difference, a second airflow is formed from the vent into the gas chamber. The formation of the gas-liquid cavity includes at least: The outer wall of the gas-liquid chamber is provided surrounding the outer wall of the float; The inner wall of the gas-liquid tank or the outer wall of the float is disposed opposite to the outer wall of the gas-liquid tank, wherein the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank is adapted to the outer wall of the float; and The upper wall of the gas-liquid tank has its outer side sealed to the top of the outer wall of the gas-liquid tank, and its inner side sealed to the upper end of the inner wall of the gas-liquid tank or the upper end of the outer wall of the float. Alternatively, the formation of the gas-liquid cavity may include at least: The inner wall of the gas-liquid chamber is adapted to fit the outer wall of part of the float; The outer wall of the gas-liquid chamber, and the inner wall of the gas-liquid chamber are arranged opposite to each other; A gas-liquid tank sidewall, which is used to connect the ends of the gas-liquid tank inner wall and the gas-liquid tank outer wall; The upper wall of the gas-liquid tank is sealed to the upper end of the inner wall, outer wall and side wall of the gas-liquid tank respectively. Alternatively, the formation of the gas-liquid chamber may include at least a cylindrical gas-liquid chamber outer wall and a gas-liquid chamber upper wall covering the upper end of the gas-liquid chamber cylindrical wall, with the vent located on the gas-liquid chamber upper wall, and a connecting structure provided between the outer wall of the float and the outer wall of the gas-liquid chamber.

2. The external gas-liquid tank according to claim 1, characterized in that It also includes at least one partition plate that divides the gas-liquid chamber into several non-communicating gas-liquid sub-chambers, each of which is provided with at least one vent.

3. A wave energy generation device, characterized in that, At least including: floating body; The external gas-liquid chamber according to claim 1 or 2 is disposed on the outside of the float; An air turbine is installed at a vent and configured to communicate with a gas chamber through the vent, and the air turbine is configured to do work under the action of the pressure difference. A generator connected to and configured to generate electricity by utilizing the work done by the air turbine.

4. A wave power plant according to claim 3, characterized in that The lower end face of the float protrudes beyond the lower end face of the external gas-liquid chamber.

5. A wave power plant according to claim 3, characterized in that It also includes a counterweight, which is located at the bottom of the buoy.

6. A wave power plant according to any of claims 3-5, characterised in that It also includes a damping structure, which is disposed below the float, and a connecting device is provided between the damping structure and the lower part of the float.

7. A wave power plant according to claim 6, characterised in that The damping structure includes a damping base plate, a damping side plate surrounding the damping base plate, and a damping reinforcing plate connected to the damping base plate and the damping side plate respectively.

8. A wave power plant according to any of claims 3-5 or 7, characterised in that The floating body is configured to be adjustable in weight, and a bottom of the floating body is provided with at least one liquid storage cabin, the liquid storage cabin is configured with a water inlet system, a water outlet system and a controller for controlling operation of the water inlet system and the water outlet system.

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