A power generation device and its control method

Abstract

The present invention relates to the technical field of wave power generation, and particularly to a power generation device and a control method thereof. The power generation device includes at least one power generation unit, and the power generation unit includes a swing plate assembly, a commutation mechanism, a generator and a steering mechanism. Among them, the swing plate assembly includes a plurality of plate members that are fixedly connected and arranged at intervals, and the plurality of plate members are coplanar. In the extending direction of the plate members, the widths of both ends of each plate member are smaller than the width of the middle section; the commutation mechanism is used to output the swing of the swing plate assembly as a one-way rotation and transmit it to the generator; the steering mechanism includes a sensor and a steering gear assembly. The sensor is arranged on the plate member and is used to detect the wave data at its position, and the controller is used to receive the data detected by the sensor and control the steering of the steering gear assembly. With such a design, the swing plate assembly can cause vortex-induced vibration during the swinging process, further increasing the swing amplitude, and the steering mechanism can adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly in real time, improving the power generation efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of wave power generation, and particularly to a power generation device and a control method thereof. Background Art

[0002] China has a long coastline and numerous islands, and the marine energy is very rich. As a renewable clean energy, marine energy is the main development direction in the future. Among them, wave energy has the characteristics of wide distribution and high energy flux density, and has become a hot spot for the development of marine energy.

[0003] Wave energy power generation is a technology that converts wave energy into electrical energy. The power generation devices using wave energy are mainly divided into three categories: mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic according to the energy intermediate conversion link. At present, the existing mechanical power generation devices have problems of low power generation efficiency and low energy conversion efficiency that need to be solved urgently. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To overcome the problems existing in the related technologies, the present invention provides a power generation device and a control method thereof, which can improve the power generation efficiency.

[0005] According to the first aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, a power generation device is provided, which includes at least one power generation unit, and the power generation unit includes:

[0006] A swing plate assembly, including a plurality of plate members, the plurality of plate members are fixedly connected and spaced apart by a set distance, the plurality of plate members are coplanar, and in the extending direction of the plate member, the widths of both ends of each plate member are smaller than the width of the middle section;

[0007] A commutation mechanism, fixedly connected to the swing plate assembly, and the commutation mechanism is used to output the swing of the swing plate assembly as a unidirectional rotation;

[0008] A generator, fixedly connected to the output end of the commutation mechanism;

[0009] A steering mechanism, including a sensor and a steering gear assembly, both the sensor and the steering gear assembly are electrically connected to a controller, the sensor is disposed on the plate member, the sensor is used to detect wave data at its location, the steering gear assembly is disposed at the bottom of the power generation unit, the steering mechanism is used to adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly, and the controller is used to receive the data detected by the sensor and control the steering of the steering gear assembly.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present invention, the commutation mechanism includes a housing, a connecting rod, a ratchet wheel, a first pawl and a second pawl, wherein,

[0011] The first end of the connecting rod is fixedly connected to the swing plate assembly, and the second end of the connecting rod is rotatably connected to the housing;

[0012] The ratchet wheel is rotatably connected to the housing through a bearing. The plane where the ratchet wheel is located is perpendicular to the plane where the plate member is located. The inner ring of the ratchet wheel is provided with first ratchet teeth, and the outer ring of the ratchet wheel is provided with second ratchet teeth;

[0013] The first end of the first pawl is rotatably connected to the connecting rod. The second end of the first pawl cooperates with the first ratchet teeth. The first end of the second pawl is rotatably connected to the connecting rod. The second end of the second pawl cooperates with the second ratchet teeth. The first pawl and the second pawl are used to alternately push the ratchet wheel to rotate along with the swing of the connecting rod.

[0014] In some embodiments of the present invention, the steering gear assembly includes a driving gear and a driven gear. The driving gear is connected to the controller. The driven gear meshes with the driving gear, and the driven gear is fixedly connected to the housing.

[0015] In some embodiments of the present invention, the plate member includes a reinforcing rib and a plate body. In the width direction of the plate body, the reinforcing rib is arranged in the middle of the plate body. In the extending direction of the plate body, both ends of the reinforcing rib protrude from the plate body. In the thickness direction of the plate body, the reinforcing rib protrudes from the surface of the plate body;

[0016] The plate body includes a first plate segment, a second plate segment, and a third plate segment that are sequentially connected in its extending direction. The first plate segment includes a first free end and a first connection end connected to the first end of the second plate segment. Along the extending direction of the plate body, the width of the first plate segment gradually decreases from the first connection end to the first free end direction; the second plate segment has a rectangular structure; the third plate segment includes a second free end and a second connection end connected to the second end of the second plate segment. Along the extending direction of the plate body, the width of the third plate segment gradually decreases from the second connection end to the second free end direction.

[0017] In some embodiments of the present invention, the swing plate assembly includes three such plate members. The three plate members are arranged at intervals in their width direction. The connecting rod is fixedly connected to the reinforcing rib of the plate member located in the middle.

[0018] In some embodiments of the present invention, the power generation unit further includes a planetary gear speed increasing mechanism. The planetary gear speed increasing mechanism is arranged between the output end of the commutation mechanism and the generator. The planetary gear speed increasing mechanism is used to increase the rotational speed of the output end of the commutation mechanism.

[0019] In some embodiments of the present invention, the power generation device includes a plurality of such power generation units arranged in an array. The arrangement mode of the plurality of power generation units is determined as follows:

[0020] Perform a flow field simulation on the power generation unit to obtain flow field data;

[0021] Fit the flow field data to obtain a flow field function;

[0022] Optimize the flow field function using a genetic algorithm and add a projection spacing constraint condition to obtain the arrangement;

[0023] According to the second aspect of the embodiments of the present invention, a control method for a power generation device is provided. The control method includes:

[0024] Obtain the wave data detected by the sensor;

[0025] Import the wave data into a flow field prediction model to obtain multiple wave parameters around the power generation unit;

[0026] According to the functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave parameters, determine the first wave parameter among the multiple wave parameters that maximizes the power generation efficiency;

[0027] Adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly according to the first wave parameter so that the swing plate assembly faces the wave with the first wave parameter;

[0028] In some embodiments of the present invention, the construction method of the flow field prediction model includes:

[0029] Perform a flow field simulation on the power generation unit to obtain flow field data;

[0030] Train the flow field prediction model according to the flow field data.

[0031] In some embodiments of the present invention, the wave parameters include wave velocity, and the wave velocity includes wave speed and wave direction. The functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave speed is a bell-shaped curve.

[0032] The technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present invention may include the following beneficial effects:

[0033] A power generation device provided by the present invention includes at least one power generation unit. By setting the power generation unit to include a swing plate assembly composed of multiple plate members that are narrow at both ends and wide in the middle, the swing plate assembly can cause vortex-induced vibration during the swinging process, further increasing the swing amplitude; by setting a commutation mechanism to output the swing of the swing plate assembly as a unidirectional rotation and transmit it to the generator, the conversion of wave energy to electrical energy is realized; by setting a steering mechanism to adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly in real time according to the wave conditions, the wave energy capture efficiency is improved, and thus the power generation efficiency of the power generation device is improved.

[0034] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory, and do not limit the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] The drawings herein are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification, showing embodiments consistent with the present invention, and are used together with the specification to explain the principles of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the external structure of a power generation unit shown according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0037] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the power generation unit in

[0038] Figure 3 is Figure 1 another schematic diagram of the internal structure of the power generation unit in

[0039] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a commutation mechanism shown according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0040] Figure 5 is a schematic flowchart of a control method for a power generation device shown according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0041] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the arrangement of multiple power generation units in a power generation device shown according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0042] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of performing a flow field simulation on a power generation unit shown according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0043] Reference Numerals:

[0044] 10. Power generation unit;

[0045] 100. Swing plate assembly; 110. Plate member; 1110. Plate body; 1111. First plate segment; 1112. Second plate segment; 1113. Third plate segment; 1120. Reinforcing rib; 1130. Connecting member;

[0046] 200. Commutation mechanism; 210. Housing; 220. Link; 230. Ratchet; 2310. First ratchet tooth; 2320. Second ratchet tooth; 240. First ratchet pawl; 250. Second ratchet pawl; 260. Transmission bracket; 2610. Central axis; 2620. Transmission pawl;

[0047] 300. Planetary gear speed increasing mechanism; 400. Generator;

[0048] 500. Steering mechanism; 510. Sensor; 520. Steering gear assembly; 5210. Driving gear; 5220. Driven gear; 5230. Steering motor;

[0049] 610. Housing; 6110. Mounting ear; 620. Rotating part; 6210. Limit hole. Detailed implementation manners

[0050] Here, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail, and examples thereof are shown in the drawings. When the following description refers to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings represent the same or similar elements. The implementation manners described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all implementation manners consistent with the present invention. On the contrary, they are merely examples of devices and methods consistent with some aspects of the present invention as detailed in the appended claims.

[0051] Wave energy power generation is a technology that converts wave energy into electrical energy. Wave energy is a clean energy source that does not produce greenhouse gas emissions during the power generation process, which helps reduce environmental pollution. Moreover, wave energy comes from the ocean, is a renewable energy source that is almost inexhaustible and widely distributed. In addition, wave energy has a high energy density and can store a large amount of energy in a small space, which helps to achieve the diversification and sustainable development of the energy structure. The power generation devices using wave energy are mainly divided into three categories according to the energy intermediate conversion links: mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic. Currently, the existing mechanical power generation devices have problems of low power generation efficiency and low energy conversion efficiency.

[0052] To solve the above technical problems, the present invention provides a power generation device. By setting that the power generation unit includes a swing plate assembly composed of a plurality of plate members that are narrow at both ends and wide in the middle, the swing plate assembly can cause vortex-induced vibration during the swinging process, further increasing the swing amplitude. By setting a commutation mechanism to output the swing of the swing plate assembly as a unidirectional rotation and transmit it to the generator, the conversion of wave energy into electrical energy is realized. By setting a steering mechanism to adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly in real time according to the wave conditions, the wave energy capture efficiency is improved, and thus the power generation efficiency of the power generation device is improved.

[0053] Next, with reference to the drawings, a power generation device and its control method provided by the present invention will be described in detail.

[0054] It should be noted that Figures 1 to 5 the plane where the x-axis and the z-axis are located is the plane where the swing plate assembly 100 is located, the plane where the x-axis and the y-axis are located is the plane where the ratchet wheel 230 is located, the x-axis direction is the width direction of the plate member 110, the y-axis direction is the thickness direction of the plate member 110, and the z-axis direction is the extending direction of the plate member 110. In addition, Figures 1 to 5The direction of the pendulum plate assembly 100 shown only represents one state of the pendulum plate assembly 100 and does not constitute a limitation on the direction of the pendulum plate assembly 100.

[0055] An embodiment of the present invention provides a power generation device, as Figures 1 to 7 shown. The power generation device includes at least one power generation unit 10, as Figures 1 to 3 shown. The power generation unit 10 includes a pendulum plate assembly 100, a commutation mechanism 200, a generator 400, a steering mechanism 500, and a housing 610 disposed outside the commutation mechanism 200, the generator 400, and the steering mechanism 500. Among them, the pendulum plate assembly 100 includes a plurality of plate members 110. The plurality of plate members 110 are arranged at a set distance intervals in the x-axis direction and are fixedly connected to each other by a connecting member 1130. The set distance can be adjusted according to actual needs. For example, the width of the plate member 110 is 25 cm, and the interval between the plate members 110 is 10 cm, 12 cm, etc., which are not limited herein. In the extending direction of the plate member 110 (i.e., the z-axis direction), the widths of both ends of the plate member 110 are smaller than the width of the middle section; the commutation mechanism 200 is fixedly connected to the pendulum plate assembly 100. The commutation mechanism 200 can convert the back-and-forth swing of the pendulum plate assembly 100 in the y-axis direction into a one-way rotation and output it to the generator 400 connected to the commutation mechanism 200, and the generator 400 converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

[0056] The steering mechanism 500 includes a sensor 510 and a steering gear assembly 520. The sensor 510 is disposed on the plate member 110. In this embodiment, one sensor 510 is disposed on the plate member 110 at the middle position and is located in the middle section in the extending direction of the plate member 110. In other embodiments, the sensor 510 can also be disposed on the plate members 110 at both ends in the x-axis direction, or can be disposed at positions near both ends of the plate member 110 in the y-axis direction. In addition, multiple sensors 510 can be provided, all within the protection scope of this application, which are not limited herein; the steering gear assembly 520 is disposed at the bottom of the power generation unit 10. Both the sensor 510 and the steering gear assembly 520 are electrically connected to the controller. The sensor 510 sends the wave data detected at the position where the sensor 510 is located to the controller, and the controller controls the steering gear assembly 520 to adjust the orientation of the pendulum plate assembly 100 according to the wave data.

[0057] The power generation process of the power generation unit 10 in this embodiment is as follows: The pendulum plate assembly 100 swings under the action of waves. The commutation mechanism 200 converts the swing of the pendulum plate assembly 100 into a one-way rotation and outputs it to the generator 400. The generator 400 converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, realizing power generation. During the power generation process, the steering mechanism 500 can adjust the orientation of the pendulum plate assembly 100 in real time.

[0058] By setting up a swing plate assembly 100 including multiple plate members 110 with the middle section of the plate member 110 being wider at the middle and narrower at both ends, the hydrodynamic characteristics of seagrass communities are simulated. Under the action of waves, vortex-induced vibration can be generated, further increasing the swing amplitude and improving the power generation efficiency. Moreover, the visual aesthetics is enhanced without causing visual pollution. In addition, through the setting of the steering mechanism 500, the power generation unit 10 can adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly 100 in real time according to the wave conditions, thereby improving the energy capture efficiency.

[0059] For a rigid structure or a long flexible structure with elastic support, it will move under the action of fluid. The phenomenon that this kind of structure vibrates due to the excitation of the fluid force caused by the alternating shedding of vortices is called vortex-induced vibration. When the vortex shedding frequency is close to the natural vibration frequency of the structure, a resonance phenomenon will occur. Within a certain range near this water flow, usually accompanied by an increase in the vortex intensity, the response amplitude of the structure will increase accordingly. From Figure 7 it can be seen that there are two P-shaped vortices near the power generation unit 10 in this application, which proves the existence of vortex-induced vibration. Figure 7 Schematically shows the situation of velocity field simulation of the power generation unit 10. From blue to red indicates that the rate of the wave gradually increases.

[0060] In one embodiment, as Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, the commutation mechanism 200 includes a housing 210, a connecting rod 220, a ratchet wheel 230, a first pawl 240, and a second pawl 250. Among them, the ratchet wheel 230 is arranged in the housing 210. The first end of the connecting rod 220 is fixedly connected to the swing plate assembly 100, and the second end of the connecting rod 220 is connected to the housing 210 through a bearing. The connecting rod 220 can swing in the plane where the y-axis and the z-axis are located with the second end as the axis; the ratchet wheel 230 is rotatably connected to the housing 210 through a bearing. The plane where the ratchet wheel 230 is located is perpendicular to the plane where the swing plate is located. The inner ring of the ratchet wheel 230 is provided with first ratchet teeth 2310, and the outer ring of the ratchet wheel 230 is provided with second ratchet teeth 2320; the first end of the first pawl 240 is rotatably connected to the connecting rod 220, the second end of the first pawl 240 cooperates with the first ratchet teeth 2310, and the first end of the second pawl 250 is rotatably connected to the connecting rod 220. The second end of the second pawl 250 cooperates with the second ratchet teeth 2320. In the z-axis direction, the second pawl 250 is arranged in the direction close to the swing plate assembly 100, and the first pawl 240 is located within the space enclosed by the inner ring of the ratchet wheel 230. The first pawl 240 and the second pawl 250 alternately push the ratchet wheel 230 to rotate unidirectionally as the connecting rod 220 swings.

[0061] The commutation mechanism 200 in this embodiment has a simple structure, reducing the space occupation, thereby reducing the overall volume of the power generation unit 10, which is beneficial to the miniaturization of the power generation unit 10. When arranging the power generation device, the arrangement density of the power generation unit 10 can be increased, and the power generation efficiency of the power generation device within the set area is improved.

[0062] In one embodiment, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, the commutation mechanism 200 further includes a transmission support 260. The transmission support 260 is fixedly connected to a surface of the ratchet 230 close to the generator 400. Specifically, the transmission support 260 includes a central shaft 2610 and a plurality of transmission claws 2620. One end of the central shaft 2610 is rotatably connected to the housing 210 through a bearing, and the other end of the central shaft 2610 is connected to the generator. One end of each transmission claw 2620 is fixedly connected to the central shaft, and the other end of the transmission claw 2620 is fixedly connected to the ratchet 230. With such a design, the rotation of the ratchet 230 is transmitted to the generator 400 through the transmission support 260.

[0063] In one embodiment, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, a plurality of mounting ears 6110 are provided on the outer shell 610. The power generation unit 10 is installed on the seabed through the through holes on the mounting ears 6110 by fasteners. The outer shell 610 plays a protective role for the commutation mechanism 200, the generator 400 and the steering mechanism 500, and can prevent the erosion of seawater or the interference of other organisms; the rotating part 620 is rotatably connected to the outer shell 610, and the rotating part 620 is fixedly connected to the top of the housing 210 of the commutation mechanism 200. A limiting hole 6210 is provided on the rotating part 620, and the connecting rod 220 passes through the limiting hole 6210. When the steering mechanism 500 adjusts the orientation of the swing plate assembly 100, the rotating part 620 can rotate synchronously with the rotation of the connecting rod 220 and the housing 210. The extending direction of the limiting hole 6210 is the same as the swinging direction of the connecting rod 220, and the size of the limiting hole 6210 is adapted to the shape of the connecting rod 220. Here, the adaptation means that while ensuring that the limiting hole 6210 can limit the swing of the connecting rod 220 and prevent the connecting rod 220 from shaking in the x-axis direction, there is still enough space for the connecting rod 220 to swing.

[0064] In one embodiment, as Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown in the figure, the steering gear assembly 520 includes a driving gear 5210, a driven gear 5220, and a steering motor 5230. The driving gear 5210 is connected to the steering motor 5230, and the steering motor 5230 is electrically connected to the controller. The controller can control the rotation of the output end of the steering motor 5230. The steering motor 5230 can drive the driving gear 5210 to rotate clockwise and counterclockwise. The driven gear 5220 meshes with the driving gear 5210 and is fixedly connected to the housing 210.

[0065] By providing the meshing driving gear 5210 and driven gear 5220, the rotation of the driving gear 5210 and the driven gear 5220 drives the overall rotation of the swing plate assembly 100, the reversing mechanism 200, and the generator 400 to adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly 100. While the structure is simple, the angle adjustment is more precise, and the precision increases with the increase in the number of gear teeth, which is beneficial to improving the power generation efficiency.

[0066] In one embodiment, as Figure 2 shown, the plate member 110 includes a reinforcing rib 1120 and a plate body 1110. In the width direction of the plate body 1110, the reinforcing rib 1120 is arranged in the middle of the plate body 1110, and the extending direction of the reinforcing rib 1120 is the same as that of the plate body 1110. In the extending direction of the plate body 1110, both ends of the reinforcing rib 1120 protrude from the plate body 1110. In the thickness direction of the plate body 1110, the reinforcing rib 1120 protrudes from the surface of the plate body 1110, and chamfers are provided at the edges of the plate body 1110.

[0067] The plate body 1110 includes a first plate segment 1111, a second plate segment 1112, and a third plate segment 1113 that are connected in sequence in its extending direction. The first plate segment 1111 includes a first free end and a first connection end connected to the first end of the second plate segment 1112. Along the extending direction of the swing plate, the width of the first plate segment 1111 gradually decreases from the first connection end to the first free end direction; the second plate segment 1112 has a rectangular structure; the third plate segment 1113 includes a second free end and a second connection end connected to the second end of the second plate segment 1112. Along the extending direction of the swing plate, the width of the third plate segment 1113 gradually decreases from the second connection end to the second free end direction. The reinforcing rib 1120, the first plate segment 1111, the second plate segment 1112, and the third plate segment 1113 are integrally formed structures.

[0068] In this embodiment, the setting of the reinforcing rib 1120 plays a strengthening role, which is beneficial to the overall structural stability of the plate member 110. The first plate segment 1111 and the third plate segment 1113 with an approximately triangular structure are beneficial to the shedding of vortices, ensuring the occurrence of the vortex-induced vibration phenomenon.

[0069] In some embodiments, the material of the plate member 110 is the same as that of the reinforcing rib 1120, both being glass fiber reinforced polyurethane material. Compared with the traditional swing plate assembly made of metal material with a coating on the surface, it has the advantages of high strength, light weight, corrosion resistance, etc., can withstand the scouring of waves, and also reduces the pollution to the marine environment. It should be noted that the material of the plate member 110 can be a rigid material, such as fiber reinforced composite material, or a flexible material, such as polyurethane material, etc.; the material of the reinforcing rib 1120 can be the same as or different from that of the plate member 110. For example, the reinforcing rib 1120 uses a rigid material and the plate body 1110 uses a flexible material. Those skilled in the art can select according to the actual situation, and all are within the protection scope of this application.

[0070] In one embodiment, as Figures 1 to 3 shown, the swing plate assembly 100 includes three plate members 110. The three plate members 110 are arranged at intervals along their width direction. The connecting rod 220 is fixedly connected to the reinforcing rib 1120 of the middle plate member 110. The multiple plate members 110 arranged at intervals can increase the wave-facing area of the swing plate assembly 100, thereby more efficiently capturing wave energy. The connection of the connecting rod 220 to the middle plate member 110 avoids the offset of the center of gravity and makes the swing of the swing plate assembly 100 more stable. In some other embodiments, the number of the plate members 110 can also be set to four, five, etc., which is not limited herein.

[0071] In one embodiment, as Figures 2 to 4 shown, the power generation unit 10 further includes a planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300. The input end of the planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300 is connected to the output end of the commutation mechanism 200, and the output end of the planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300 is connected to the generator 400, which is used to increase the speed of the output end of the commutation mechanism 200 and output it to the generator 400 for power generation.

[0072] The planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300 includes structures such as a sun gear, planetary gears, a ring gear, and a planetary carrier. Among them, the sun gear is located at the center and is connected to the high-speed output shaft. The planetary carrier supports multiple planetary gears. The multiple planetary gears are distributed around the sun gear and can rotate both self and revolve with the planetary carrier. The ring gear meshes with the planetary gears. The planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300 is a conventional device in this field and will not be elaborated herein.

[0073] By setting the planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300, the speed of the output end of the commutation mechanism 200 is increased to the rated speed of the generator 400. Since the input shaft and the output shaft of the planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300 are collinear in design, the structure is compact and space is saved; and the load can be dispersed to multiple planetary gears, having a strong bearing capacity, and also increasing the structural strength of the power generation unit 10.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, refer to Figure 6, the power generation device includes a plurality of power generation units 10 arranged in an array. The arrangement of the plurality of power generation units 10 is determined as follows: Import the model of the power generation unit 10 into simulation software for flow field simulation to obtain flow field data; Use data analysis software to fit the flow field data to obtain a flow field function; Use a genetic algorithm to optimize the flow field function and add a projection spacing constraint condition to obtain the optimal arrangement method. The optimal arrangement method is as Figure 6 shown, where the units of the abscissa and ordinate are both meters, and the right side is the speed bar. The speed of the wave gradually increases from blue to red.

[0075] In this embodiment, the determination of the optimal arrangement method includes the following steps:

[0076] Import the three-dimensional model of the power generation unit 10 with set dimensions into Flow-3D software. The set dimensions of the power generation unit 10, for example, include the overall height of the power generation unit 10 being 2m, the width of the swing plate assembly 100 being 1m, and the thickness of the plate member 110 being 0.1m. Those skilled in the art can set according to actual needs. Set a wave model at the water inlet, set wave parameters, such as the wave height being 1m, the average water level being 2.5m, the wave period being 5s, the grid size being 10cm, set the water flow as seawater with gravity and perform viscous flow, turn on the RNG k - ε turbulence model, set the water outlet as free outflow, and set the other surfaces as wall models to perform flow field simulation, that is, assume the power generation unit 10 operates in seawater to obtain flow field data. The flow field data are various data of the seawater around the power generation unit 10, such as wave direction, wave speed, turbulence intensity, pressure, etc.

[0077] Use data analysis software, such as MATLAB, to input the obtained flow field data for deep learning to obtain a flow field function. The flow field function represents the functional relationship between the flow field data at a position and the flow field data around the power generation unit 10. For example, input the wave speed detected at the sensor 510 into the flow field function, and the wave speed in the area around the power generation unit 10 can be obtained.

[0078] The flow field function is optimized using a genetic algorithm. Since the wake effect occurs in the seawater for the power generation unit 10, and the wake effect will have an adverse impact on other nearby power generation units 10, it is necessary to set a reasonable interval to avoid the influence of the wake effect. At the same time, in order to improve the power generation efficiency, the interval between the power generation units 10 is minimized as much as possible, and the arrangement density of the power generation units 10 is increased. Therefore, the genetic algorithm is used to balance the two to obtain an intermediate value, with the minimum interval while avoiding the wake effect; configure the various parameters of the genetic algorithm. For example, set the population size to 50 individuals to enhance the global search ability, set the maximum number of generations to 100 to ensure that the iteration can converge, and set the crossover probability to 0.8 to facilitate the combination of excellent genes. The configuration of the genetic algorithm includes but is not limited to the above parameters, and those skilled in the art can adjust them according to needs, which will not be elaborated here. In addition, in order to avoid interference between the swing plate assemblies 100 of adjacent power generation units 10 during the swinging process, a projection spacing constraint condition is added when optimizing the flow field function. The projection spacing constraint condition is the minimum distance that commands the adjacent swing plate assemblies 100 not to interfere when swinging to the maximum angle (i.e., the most inclined state) (i.e., the projections in the z-axis direction do not overlap). This distance is determined according to the swing angle of the swing plate assembly 100, the length of the plate member 110, etc.

[0079] Designed in this way, the arrangement mode of multiple power generation units 10 in the power generation device determined avoids the wake effect and interference between the swing plate assemblies 100, reduces the floor area, increases the arrangement density, and thus improves the power generation efficiency.

[0080] In an exemplary embodiment, a control method for a power generation device is provided, as Figure 5 shown, including the following steps:

[0081] S100. Obtain the wave data detected by the sensor.

[0082] In this step, the sensor provided on the swing plate assembly sends the detected wave data to the controller.

[0083] S200. Import the wave data into the flow field prediction model to obtain multiple wave parameters around the power generation unit.

[0084] In this step, importing the wave data into the constructed flow field prediction model can obtain the wave parameters at multiple positions around the power generation unit according to the wave parameters at the position where the sensor is located. At least one sensor is provided, and the more sensors are provided, the more wave data is imported, and the more accurate the wave parameters around the power generation unit will be.

[0085] S300. Determine the first wave parameter among multiple wave parameters that maximizes the power generation efficiency according to the functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave parameters.

[0086] In this step, there is a functional relationship between the wave parameters and the power generation efficiency. According to this functional relationship, determine the first wave parameter corresponding to the point that can maximize the power generation efficiency among the multiple wave parameters obtained.

[0087] S400. Adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly according to the first wave parameter so that the swing plate assembly faces the wave with the first wave parameter.

[0088] In this step, determine the position where the first wave parameter is located. The controller controls the motor to start according to this position. The motor drives the driving gear to rotate by a set angle, driving the driven gear to rotate, realizing the adjustment of the orientation of the swing plate assembly.

[0089] In this embodiment, the orientation of the swing plate assembly is adjusted according to the wave data detected by the sensor, ensuring the timely adjustment of the orientation of the swing plate assembly and realizing the maximization of the power generation efficiency.

[0090] In one embodiment, the method for constructing the flow field prediction model includes the following steps:

[0091] S210. Perform a flow field simulation on the power generation unit to obtain flow field data.

[0092] In this step, import the three-dimensional model of the power generation unit with set dimensions into the Flow-3D software. The set dimensions of the power generation unit, for example, include the overall height of the power generation unit being 2m, the width of the swing plate assembly being 1m, and the thickness of the plate 110. Those skilled in the art can set according to actual needs. Set a wave model at the water inlet, set wave parameters, such as the wave height being 1m, the average water level being 2.5m, the wave period being 5s, the grid size being 10cm, set the water flow as seawater with gravity, enable viscous flow, turn on the RNG k - ε turbulence model, set the outlet as free outflow, and set the other surfaces as wall models, and perform a flow field simulation, that is, assume the power generation unit operates in seawater to obtain flow field data. The flow field data are the various data of the seawater around the power generation unit, such as the wave direction, wave speed, turbulence intensity, pressure, etc.

[0093] S220. Train the flow field prediction model according to the flow field data.

[0094] In this step, import the flow field data obtained by the Flow-3D software into data analysis software, such as MATLAB, and train the flow field prediction code to obtain the flow field prediction model.

[0095] In this embodiment, through the construction of the flow field prediction model, multiple flow field data around the power generation unit can be obtained based on the flow field data at the location of the sensor, ensuring the implementation of the steering step and thus improving the power generation efficiency of the power generation device.

[0096] In one embodiment, the wave parameters in step S200 may include the wave speed and the wave direction, and the functional relationship in step S300 is the functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave speed. Then, the control method of the power generation device in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0097] S120. Obtain the wave speed detected by the sensor.

[0098] In this step, the sensor is a wave speed sensor, and the detected wave speed includes the wave rate and the wave direction.

[0099] S220. Import the wave speed into the flow field prediction model to obtain multiple wave speeds around the power generation unit.

[0100] In this step, by importing the wave speed into the constructed flow field prediction model, the wave speeds at multiple positions around the power generation device can be obtained based on the wave speed at the location of the sensor.

[0101] S320. According to the bell-shaped curve functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave rate, determine the first wave rate that maximizes the power generation efficiency among the multiple wave rates.

[0102] In this step, it should be noted that the first wave rate is the wave rate that maximizes the power generation efficiency among the multiple power generation rates obtained by using the flow field prediction model. It may not be the wave rate corresponding to the point where the power generation efficiency is the highest, or it may be the wave rate corresponding to the point where the power generation efficiency is the highest.

[0103] S420. Adjust the orientation of the pendulum plate assembly according to the wave direction corresponding to the first wave rate, so that the pendulum plate assembly faces the wave with the first wave rate.

[0104] In this step, determine the direction of the wave with the first wave rate. The controller determines the angle that the pendulum plate assembly needs to rotate to face this direction according to this direction, controls the motor to start, and the motor drives the active gear to rotate this angle, driving the driven gear to rotate, realizing the real-time adjustment of the orientation of the pendulum plate assembly.

[0105] The power generation device and its control method provided by the above embodiments can generate vortex-induced vibration of the swing plate assembly 100 under the action of waves by simulating the hydrodynamic characteristics of seagrass communities, further increasing the swing amplitude and improving the energy capture efficiency. The settings of the commutation mechanism 200 and the planetary gear speed increasing mechanism 300 reduce the space occupation and increase the arrangement density of the power generation units 10. The intelligent control method controls the steering mechanism 500 to adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly 100. The above settings improve the power generation efficiency and are also applicable to scenarios where traditional power generation devices cannot be installed, such as nearshore reef areas and offshore platform pile foundations, expanding the application range of the power generation device.

[0106] It should be noted that the terms "first" and "second" are only used for descriptive purposes and cannot be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of these features.

[0107] In the present invention, unless otherwise clearly defined and limited, terms such as "installed", "connected", "connected to", "fixed" and the like should be understood in a broad sense. For example, it may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or integrated; it may be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it may be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, and it may be the internal communication of two components or the interaction relationship between two components, unless otherwise clearly limited. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0108] In the description of this specification, the description with reference to terms such as "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "example", "specific example", or "some examples" means that the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, the schematic representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described can be combined in any one or more embodiments or examples in a suitable manner. In addition, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and combine the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0109] After considering the specification and practicing the invention disclosed herein, those skilled in the art will readily conceive of other embodiments of the present invention. The present invention is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the present invention, which follow the general principles of the present invention and include common general knowledge or conventional technical means in the technical field not disclosed by the present invention. The specification and examples are only regarded as exemplary, and the true scope and spirit of the present invention are pointed out by the claims.

[0110] Other embodiments of the present invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. The present invention is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention following the general principles of the invention and including known or customary technical means in the technical field not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are only to be considered as exemplary, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are pointed out by the following claims.

[0111] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the exact construction described above and shown in the drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the present invention is only limited by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A power generation device comprising at least one power generation unit, characterized in that: The power generation unit includes: A swing plate assembly, including a plurality of plate members, which are fixedly connected to each other and spaced apart by a set distance, and the plurality of plate members are coplanar. In the extending direction of the plate members, the widths of both ends of each plate member are smaller than the width of the middle section; A commutation mechanism, fixedly connected to the swing plate assembly, and the commutation mechanism is used to output the swing of the swing plate assembly as a unidirectional rotation; A generator, fixedly connected to the output end of the commutation mechanism; A steering mechanism, including a sensor and a steering gear assembly. Both the sensor and the steering gear assembly are electrically connected to a controller. The sensor is arranged on the plate member, and the sensor is used to detect the wave data at its location. The steering gear assembly is arranged at the bottom of the power generation unit, and the steering mechanism is used to adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly. The controller is used to receive the data detected by the sensor and control the steering of the steering gear assembly; The controller is configured to: acquire the wave data detected by the sensor; import the wave data into a flow field prediction model to obtain a plurality of wave parameters around the power generation unit; determine, according to the functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave parameters, the first wave parameter among the plurality of wave parameters that maximizes the power generation efficiency; and adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly according to the first wave parameter so that the swing plate assembly faces the wave with the first wave parameter; The plate member includes a reinforcing rib and a plate body. In the width direction of the plate body, the reinforcing rib is arranged in the middle of the plate body. In the extending direction of the plate body, both ends of the reinforcing rib protrude from the plate body respectively. In the thickness direction of the plate body, the reinforcing rib protrudes from the surface of the plate body; The plate body includes a first plate segment, a second plate segment, and a third plate segment that are connected in sequence in its extending direction. The first plate segment includes a first free end and a first connection end connected to the first end of the second plate segment. Along the extending direction of the plate body, the width of the first plate segment gradually decreases from the first connection end to the first free end direction; the second plate segment has a rectangular structure; the third plate segment includes a second free end and a second connection end connected to the second end of the second plate segment. Along the extending direction of the plate body, the width of the third plate segment gradually decreases from the second connection end to the second free end direction; The swing plate assembly can generate vortex-induced vibration under the action of waves.

2. The power generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The commutation mechanism includes a housing, a connecting rod, a ratchet wheel, a first pawl, and a second pawl, where The first end of the connecting rod is fixedly connected to the swing plate assembly, and the second end of the connecting rod is rotatably connected to the housing; The ratchet wheel is rotatably connected to the housing through a bearing. The plane where the ratchet wheel is located is perpendicular to the plane where the plate member is located. The inner ring of the ratchet wheel is provided with first ratchet teeth, and the outer ring of the ratchet wheel is provided with second ratchet teeth; The first end of the first pawl is rotatably connected to the connecting rod, the second end of the first pawl is engaged with the first ratchet tooth, and the first end of the second pawl is rotatably connected to the connecting rod, the second end of the second pawl is engaged with the second ratchet tooth. The first pawl and the second pawl are configured to alternately push the ratchet wheel to rotate as the connecting rod swings.

3. The power generation device according to claim 2, characterized in that The steering gear assembly includes a driving gear and a driven gear. The driving gear is connected to the controller, the driven gear meshes with the driving gear, and the driven gear is fixedly connected to the housing.

4. The power generation device according to claim 2, characterized in that The swing plate assembly includes three plate members, and the three plate members are arranged at intervals along their width direction. The connecting rod is fixedly connected to the reinforcing rib of the middle plate member.

5. The power generation device according to claim 1, wherein The power generation unit further includes a planetary gear speed increasing mechanism. The planetary gear speed increasing mechanism is disposed between the output end of the commutation mechanism and the generator, and the planetary gear speed increasing mechanism is configured to increase the rotational speed of the output end of the commutation mechanism.

6. The power generation device according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The power generation device includes a plurality of the power generation units arranged in an array. The arrangement manner of the plurality of power generation units is determined as follows: Perform a flow field simulation on the power generation unit to obtain flow field data; Fit the flow field data to obtain a flow field function; Optimize the flow field function by using a genetic algorithm and add a projection spacing constraint condition to obtain the arrangement manner.

7. A control method for a power generation device, applied to the power generation device according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The control method includes: Obtain the wave data detected by the sensor; Import the wave data into a flow field prediction model to obtain a plurality of wave parameters around the power generation unit; According to the functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave parameters, determine a first wave parameter among the plurality of wave parameters that maximizes the power generation efficiency; Adjust the orientation of the swing plate assembly according to the first wave parameter so that the swing plate assembly faces the wave having the first wave parameter.

8. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The construction method of the flow field prediction model includes: Perform a flow field simulation on the power generation unit to obtain flow field data; Train the flow field prediction model according to the flow field data.

9. The control method according to claim 7, wherein The wave parameters include wave velocity, and the wave velocity includes wave rate and wave direction. The functional relationship between the power generation efficiency and the wave rate is a bell-shaped curve.

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