Wave power plant and rotor for use in wave power plant

Abstract

Disclosed is a wave power plant comprising: a frame construction extending in a longitudinal direction and having a rotor shaft extending in the longitudinal direction of the frame construction; a plurality of rocking rotors arranged to be rotatable about a rotor axis relative to the frame configuration, each rocking rotor comprising a floating body having a housing, a bearing arranged at the rotor axis, an interface configuration configured to interconnect the floating body with the bearing such that the rocking rotors are rotatably connected to the rotor axis, the housing of the floating body has a triangular shape and has a first side, a second side, and a third side, the first and second sides being a first convex side and a second convex side, the third side being a third concave side, the third concave side facing the rotor shaft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of wave power generation equipment for generating electricity from wave motion in water surface areas, and more specifically, to a wave power generation equipment having multiple rotors (such as a rocking rotor) and a rotor, such as a rocking rotor, for use with the wave power generation equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Harvesting wave energy has been a promising field because waves are more predictable and reliable than solar or wind power, and they can power hard-to-reach locations such as coastal communities and remote islands. Wave power generation devices are implemented in various ways, with some utilizing a gyratory rotor as the energy harvesting method. The gyratory rotor provides alternating motion, essentially vertical, in response to impacting waves. When the gyratory rotor is mounted on a frame at a position horizontally displaced relative to its center of gravity, the vertical motion is converted into rotational motion.

[0003] Wave power generation equipment designed for offshore applications faces the challenge of withstanding extremely harsh marine conditions, including corrosive saline environments and weather conditions that pose challenges to engineering solutions due to extreme temperature variations and mechanical stresses on the structure. Furthermore, the offshore location can make regular maintenance and upkeep difficult and costly. In addition, to achieve acceptable energy harvesting commensurate with the investment in positioning and maintaining the wave power equipment in such harsh environments, the equipment needs to be a fairly large structure. The forces acting on such a large structure highlight the need for reliable mechanical solutions. Therefore, very robust and stable solutions are required for any moving parts on such wave power equipment to place it in an offshore location. Moreover, the energy harvesting mechanism needs to be as efficient as possible to ensure the highest possible output from the wave power equipment. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In a first aspect of the invention, a wave power generation device is provided, comprising: a frame structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a rotor shaft extending in the longitudinal direction of the frame structure; and a plurality of oscillating rotors. The plurality of oscillating rotors are arranged to be rotatable relative to the frame structure about the rotor shaft. Each oscillating rotor includes: a float having a housing; a bearing disposed at the rotor shaft; and an interface structure configured to interconnect the float and the bearing, such that the oscillating rotor is rotatably connected to the rotor shaft.

[0005] In a second aspect of the invention, a rocking rotor for use in a wave power generation device is provided, the rocking rotor comprising: a float having a housing; a bearing configured to be disposed at a rotor shaft; and an interface configuration configured to interconnect the float and the bearing.

[0006] In some embodiments, the hull of the float has a triangular shape (a triangular cross-section), such as a generally triangular shape, and has a first side, a second side, and a third side, wherein the first and second sides are first convex sides and second convex sides, and the third side is a third concave side facing the rotor shaft. The hull of the float may have two convex sides and one concave side.

[0007] In some embodiments, the hull of the float has an opening around the rotor shaft, wherein the opening can be configured to tangentially contact the water surface when the oscillating rotor is placed in the operating position in the water, and wherein the hull with the opening does not surround the rotor shaft.

[0008] In some implementations, the cross-section of the hull of the float may have a perimeter P that does not surround the rotor shaft.

[0009] The hull of a float can have two end faces.

[0010] In some embodiments, the third side of the triangular housing is configured to be submerged in water when the oscillating rotor is positioned in the intended operating position in the wave generator.

[0011] In some embodiments, the third concave side is shaped as an arc of a circle, such as forming part of the circumference of a circle. The third concave side can be configured to tangentially contact the water surface when the oscillating rotor is placed in the intended operating position in the water. In some embodiments, at least one cross-section of the hull of the float has a triangular shape.

[0012] The advantage of using a gyratory rotor as described herein is that the mass or weight of the portion of the gyratory rotor submerged in water can be minimized when it is positioned in the intended operating location within the wave power generation device. With the gyratory rotor according to this disclosure, the weight of the gyratory rotor is optimized, allowing its buoyancy index to be significantly reduced compared to conventional gyratory rotors with a larger submerged mass. Reducing the buoyancy index of the gyratory rotor improves its overall efficiency, which in turn allows for a higher nominal power output from the wave power generation device. This is particularly important for gyratory rotors configured for positioning in ocean areas where wave behavior includes short wave periods and / or where wave behavior is variable or dynamic. A wave period is the time difference between the arrival of successive wave crests at rest.

[0013] Reducing the buoyant mass of the submerged component increases the energy output efficiency of the oscillating rotor due to reduced inertia (i.e., mass inertia). Consequently, the oscillating rotor responds more quickly to the forces of incoming waves; in other words, the incoming waves require less inertia to move the rotor, thus increasing its responsiveness. Therefore, a more dynamic and responsive oscillating rotor ultimately improves the energy output of incoming waves. This is particularly important in areas with relatively short wave periods (e.g., less than 10 seconds, less than 15 seconds). Such wave periods are frequently observed in areas such as the North Sea.

[0014] A wave power generation device comprising a longitudinally extending frame structure and having a rotor shaft extending in the longitudinal direction of the frame structure provides a scalable wave power generation device design capable of operating during strong winds and large waves. The rotor shaft in the frame structure provides a foundation for the oscillating rotors to be installed, while ensuring they share a common axis of rotation. In some embodiments, the shaft is uniform and parallel to the frame structure in the longitudinal direction, but alternatively, it may not be parallel.

[0015] In some embodiments, multiple rocking rotors are arranged to rotate about a rotor axis relative to a frame configuration. In some embodiments, the frame configuration may include mounting positions for rocking rotors comprising a single axis.

[0016] Wave power generation equipment can be arranged such that the frame structure is parallel to the direction of the impact wave, or it can be arranged such that the frame structure is perpendicular to the direction of the impact wave.

[0017] Wave power generation equipment can be arranged at an angle between 0° and 90° relative to the shock wave.

[0018] The advantage of providing a common center of rotation for the rotor shaft is that when the rotor shaft is arranged parallel to the wave direction, each of the multiple oscillating rotors that can rotate around the rotor shaft experiences little or no stress due to wave impact, and when the rotor shaft is arranged perpendicular to the impact wave, there is little or no wake effect between adjacent oscillating rotors.

[0019] Each oscillating rotor includes a float. The float has a shell. In some embodiments, the shell of the float corresponds to the surface portion of the float. The float and / or the shell of the float can be made of any material capable of withstanding the harsh environment and saltwater conditions of open seas. The float and / or the shell of the float can contain metals, such as steel, such as stainless steel; the float and / or the shell of the float can contain concrete, such as reinforced concrete; the float and / or the shell of the float can contain composite materials, such as reinforced composite materials; the float and / or the shell of the float can contain carbon fiber, glass fiber, polymer materials, thermoplastics, etc. In some embodiments, the float contains buoyancy materials, such as foam (such as polystyrene foam, such as polystyrene foam plastic), enclosed air, etc. In some embodiments, the foam core can be coated with a coating, such as polyurethane, epoxy resin, etc.

[0020] Multiple oscillating rotors are arranged to rotate about a rotor shaft relative to a frame structure via bearings, such that the oscillating rotors are rotatably connected to the rotor shaft. The buoyancy body preferably allows the oscillating rotors to float independently, thereby enabling them to oscillate with the waves.

[0021] In some implementations, the hull of the float has a smooth surface to minimize the resistance encountered by the hull when the float oscillates with the waves.

[0022] The hull of the float may include an outer layer, such as a layer for antifouling purposes, like an antifouling coating or bactericide, or alternatively a coating, such as a Teflon coating or a silicone coating. The outer layer may also be a surface of the hull that has antifouling capabilities.

[0023] Therefore, the growth of marine organisms such as barnacles can be reduced or suppressed, thereby improving the performance of the oscillating rotor over time, since the growth of any marine organism will affect the hydrodynamic performance of the oscillating rotor. For example, the growth of marine organisms can change the surface of the shell, making the shell surface of the float potentially rougher, thus increasing the drag encountered when moving in water. For example, the growth of marine organisms can change the weight of the shell, and thus change the depth of the oscillating rotor in the water, i.e., the draft of the oscillating rotor may change.

[0024] The float has a bearing disposed at or configured to be disposed at the rotor shaft, and has an interface configuration configured to interconnect the float and the bearing so that the oscillating rotor can be rotatably connected to the rotor shaft.

[0025] Bearings ensure that the oscillating rotor can rotate about the rotor shaft relative to the frame configuration. Bearings can be any type, such as journal bearings, sleeve bearings, ball bearings, roller bearings, sliding bearings, fluid film bearings, magnetic bearings, etc. Generally, bearings capable of withstanding harsh open marine environments are preferred. Each oscillating rotor may have a single bearing. In some embodiments, each oscillating rotor has multiple bearings, such as two bearings, or four bearings.

[0026] The interface construction interconnects the float (such as the float's shell in some examples) with the bearing, thereby allowing the oscillating rotor to rotate around the rotor shaft.

[0027] In some embodiments, the interface construction includes one or more spokes, which may have any thickness sufficient to withstand forces that may be applied to the interface construction during operation. In some embodiments, the interface construction includes one or more sheets, such as sheets in the form of a complete disc, or sheets in the form of a portion of a disc.

[0028] In some implementations, the interface structure may be composed of a combination of sheet and spokes. The interface structure may be a portion fixed to the housing and bearing, but it may also be formed as part of the housing, for example, as an extension of the housing.

[0029] In some embodiments, the hull of the float has a triangular shape, such as a generally triangular shape, and has two convex sides and one concave side. The concave side may be configured to face the rotor shaft. In a first aspect, an interface structure may extend between the concave side and the rotor shaft with bearings. In a second aspect, the interface structure may extend between the concave side and a bearing configured to be mounted on the rotor shaft.

[0030] In some embodiments, the oscillating rotor is configured such that when the oscillating rotor is in the operating position in the water, the concave side of the buoy's hull can tangentially contact the water surface.

[0031] Typically, the oscillating rotor is roughly egg-shaped, with a sharp top and a through-hole for accommodating the rotor shaft. This prior art oscillating rotor, when positioned in the operating position in water, has a considerable mass submerged below the water surface.

[0032] The advantage of arranging a rocking rotor with two convex sides and one concave side (such as the concave side facing the rotor shaft) is that the mass of the rocking rotor below the water surface can be significantly reduced when the rocking rotor is placed in the operating position in the water.

[0033] Therefore, the buoyant mass of the floating body below the water surface decreases, thereby reducing the inertia of the oscillating rotor (such as mass inertia), and thus effectively increasing the responsiveness of the floating body to incoming waves and changes in sea state, waves, and wave behavior. This improves the efficiency of the oscillating rotor.

[0034] In some embodiments, the hull of the float is configured not to surround the rotor shaft. The hull of the float may be configured to surround the rotor shaft with a circumference of less than 180 degrees, such as less than 120 degrees.

[0035] In some embodiments, the width of the oscillating rotor is at least 2 meters, such as at least 3 meters, such as 4.5 meters in diameter. This width can be equal to the total width of the concave side of the triangular float.

[0036] The length of the swing rotor in the longitudinal direction of the frame structure can be at least 2 meters, such as at least 3.5 meters, such as 5.3 meters.

[0037] The inventors of this invention have discovered that even when the shape of the buoy's shell is not egg-shaped as in prior art oscillating rotors, but rather triangular (with two convex sides and one concave side facing the rotation center of the oscillating rotor), the oscillating rotor may experience less friction during rotation due to reduced water resistance below the water surface. This is because the mass of the buoy below the water surface is reduced, and the torque in the direction opposite to the rotation direction of the oscillating rotor can also be reduced, while maintaining the buoyant mass that generates torque in the rotation direction.

[0038] In some embodiments, the two convex sides of the housing (the first side and the second side) are connected at the apex of a triangle. The bottom ends of the convex sides may taper to accommodate a third concave side of the triangle. In some embodiments, the bottom ends of the first and / or second convex sides of the housing may be arranged to align with the center of the rotor shaft.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first and second sides of the triangular housing can be symmetrical. The first and second sides of the triangular housing can be symmetrical about a first axis of the rocking rotor, which extends through the top vertex of the triangle and the midpoint of the third concave side of the triangle.

[0040] In some implementations, the oscillating rotor is configured such that it acquires a specific resonant frequency. The oscillating rotor can also be configured such that its eigenfrequency matches the wave period of a nearby wave.

[0041] Matching the eigenfrequency of the oscillating rotor to the wave period of the impact wave is advantageous. Because oscillating rotors are subject to constructive interference, a rotor whose eigenfrequency matches the wave period of the incoming wave exhibits better responsiveness. For example, if the eigenfrequency of the oscillating rotor matches the wave period of the incoming wave, the rotor may have already oscillated (e.g., roughly oscillated back) to a stationary position after the first wave impacts when the second wave arrives and impacts it, thus maximizing the range of motion of the oscillating rotor.

[0042] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the oscillating rotor is configured such that the eigenfrequency of the oscillating rotor is located at the axis of the oscillating rotor.

[0043] In one or more embodiments of the invention, each oscillating rotor is configured to have a floating rest position, wherein, when the oscillating rotor is positioned in the water at a desired operating location, the first axis of the oscillating rotor forms an angle of 25° to 70° relative to a vertical plane (such as a calm water surface), such as in the range of 30° to 60°, such as between 40° and 50°, such as about 45°. By adopting this asymmetrical rest position, the range of motion of the oscillating rotor in one direction from the floating rest position when subjected to wave impact can be optimized.

[0044] The oscillating rotor can be tilted such that the first axis is at an angle relative to a vertical surface (e.g., relative to a calm water surface). The oscillating rotor can be tilted vertically upward to minimize the waves passing over it, while also being tilted sufficiently horizontally to achieve the optimal range of motion.

[0045] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, each oscillating rotor includes a drive element for collecting power generated by the oscillating motion of the oscillating rotor. The drive element may include rotor wheel drive elements, such as rotor drive wheels, rack and pinion type drive elements, magnetic drive elements, etc.

[0046] In some implementations, each oscillating rotor includes a rotor drive wheel that is fixedly connected to the float.

[0047] The rotor drive wheel can transmit the mechanical energy generated by the buoyancy of the rocking rotor to, for example, a drive shaft. The rotor drive wheel preferably has a circular shape, with its center located at the center of rotation of the rocking rotor. Alternatively, the rotor drive wheel can be semi-circular, or it can be a sector with two radii and corresponding arcs, preferably arranged such that the center of the arc corresponds to the center of the circumference of the arc on the third concave side of the hull of the buoyancy. The length of the arc can be arranged to be similar to the dimension of the third side of the hull, but can also alternatively be larger or smaller.

[0048] The rotor drive wheels can be located at either end of the float of the oscillating rotor, and one or more rotor drive wheels can be connected to the float. In some embodiments, one or more rotor drive wheels can be distributed along the longitudinal axis of the oscillating rotor.

[0049] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the drive wheels are rotatably interconnected to the rotor shaft via bearings.

[0050] The drive wheel, interconnected to the rotor shaft via bearings, reduces stress on the buoyancy of the gyratory rotor. The rotor shaft assists the buoyancy in supporting the rotor drive wheel, allowing the gyratory rotor to have greater buoyancy and be lighter. The bearings can be those that connect the buoyancy of the gyratory rotor to the shaft, or they can be separate bearings, which may be of the same or different type as the bearings connecting the buoyancy of the gyratory rotor to the shaft.

[0051] In some implementations, the rotor drive wheels are interconnected to the frame structure via drive shafts.

[0052] The rotor drive wheel can be driven by, for example, a cable, chain, or preferably a belt, to the drive shaft. The drive shaft serves as a common location for collecting the mechanical energy generated by each oscillating rotor, so that the energy of multiple oscillating rotors can be converted into electrical energy simultaneously. The frame construction can have a single shaft, or it can have multiple shafts, each with a separate number of oscillating rotors, which may be identical or different.

[0053] In some implementations, one or more of the multiple rocking rotors include one or more ballasts.

[0054] Placing ballast within the gyratory rotor allows the rotor's center of gravity to shift, thereby configuring the rotor to form a preferred angle relative to the horizontal plane when submerged in water. Ballast can include sand, concrete, metals (such as steel, stainless steel, iron, or lead), and can also take the form of liquid tanks (such as seawater tanks, freshwater tanks, or oil tanks), or any combination of all the aforementioned ballasts. One or more ballasts can have a fixed mass or a variable mass, such as liquid tanks capable of storing and receiving liquids. Ballasts with a variable mass may be advantageous because the eigenfrequency or natural frequency of the gyratory rotor can be altered by changing the mass of the ballast to accommodate the requirements of different weather and sea conditions at various locations.

[0055] In some embodiments, one or more ballasts are arranged in the floats of one or more of the multiple oscillating rotors.

[0056] One or more ballast materials can be arranged within the float. These ballast materials can form part of the hull, or they can be disposed within the hull of the float, or they can be arranged in combination. Integrating ballast materials into the float ensures the stability of the mass of each type of ballast material. Ballast materials within the hull of the float can be located within the hull of the float or fixed at a designated position on the hull. In some embodiments, the ballast materials form part of the hull of the float.

[0057] In some embodiments, one or more ballasts arranged in the float are positioned opposite the top portion.

[0058] One or more ballasts may be arranged opposite the top portion. One or more ballasts may be arranged at the lower end of the hull of the float, such as closer to the third concave side of the hull than the top portion, such as at one or both tapering ends of the float. Ballasts in the tapering ends of the float (such as the tapering end adjacent to the third concave side of the hull) can move the center of gravity of the oscillating rotor toward the tapering end in question. Such ballasts may be combined with ballasts positioned at another tapering end adjacent to the third concave side of the hull to move the center of gravity in a desired direction between the two tapering ends. Ballasts at one tapering end of the hull may be larger than ballasts at the other tapering end of the hull to move the center of gravity primarily in a direction toward the tapering end of the hull that includes the heavier ballast.

[0059] In some embodiments, one or more ballasts arranged in the float are arranged substantially along one of the two convex sides of the float.

[0060] Ballast can be arranged as close as possible to the top portion of the oscillating rotor to maximize the torque generated on the shaft with minimal weight.

[0061] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the wave power generation device includes one or more generators arranged in a frame structure and at least one drive shaft interconnected with the oscillating rotor and the one or more generators.

[0062] Wave power generation equipment may include one or more generators configured to convert the mechanical energy generated by one or more oscillating rotors of the wave power generation equipment into other forms of energy. The generator can be any type of generator, such as an induction generator, synchronous generator, or permanent magnet generator. The synchronous generator may have a voltage supply connected to the rotor windings of the synchronous generator to excite the rotor. The voltage supply may be variable. Variable excitation of the rotor windings facilitates control of the rotor angle of the synchronous generator wheel.

[0063] In some implementations, at least one drive shaft is interconnected with the oscillating rotor via a free-running mechanism.

[0064] By interconnecting the drive shaft with the oscillating rotor via a free-spinning mechanism, the drive shaft can absorb torque in only one direction, causing it to rotate in only one direction. This direction can be clockwise or counterclockwise. The free-spinning mechanism can interconnect the drive shaft with drive elements, such as connecting the drive shaft to the rotor drive wheel. The free-spinning mechanism can be positioned above the water surface, providing a simpler and more robust mechanism.

[0065] In some implementations, a one-way gearbox can be used as an alternative to a free-running mechanism. This allows energy to be harvested from the oscillating rotor in both directions of rotation using a single rotor drive wheel.

[0066] In one or more embodiments of the present invention, the free-running mechanism can be activated when the swing rotor moves upward, downward, or a combination of both.

[0067] The free-running mechanism can be configured to provide torque to the drive shaft during upward rotation of the oscillating rotor due to its buoyancy, and can also be configured to provide torque to the drive shaft during downward rotation of the oscillating rotor due to gravity. Alternatively, the free-running mechanism can provide torque to the drive shaft during both upward and downward rotation of the oscillating rotor, for example, when at least two or more devices are present for transmitting torque via the rotation of the oscillating rotor. At least one device for transmitting torque via the rotation of the oscillating rotor may provide torque in the opposite direction to the other devices for transmitting torque.

[0068] In some embodiments, the frame construction includes: a first frame construction and a second frame construction adjacent to each other at a rotary joint; and an actuation device for arranging the first frame construction and the second frame construction at an angle θ in the horizontal direction, wherein the actuation device is arranged to change the angle θ between 0° and 180° (such as 45° to 135°).

[0069] A wave power generation device with a frame structure featuring two arms and a variable angle θ between them provides a flexible solution. During severe sea conditions, the angle between the arms can be reduced. Reducing the angle of the two arms decreases stress on the wave power generation device, particularly at anchor points or grid connections. The wave power generation device can also increase the angle to a maximum of 180°, thereby maximizing power generation.

[0070] In some embodiments, the wave power generation device includes: a first frame structure extending in a longitudinal direction; a first set of oscillating rotors disposed along a first rotor shaft extending in a longitudinal direction along a first side of the frame structure; and a second set of oscillating rotors disposed along a second rotor shaft extending in a longitudinal direction along a second side of the frame structure.

[0071] The frame structure, featuring two sets of oscillating rotors positioned on each side of a longitudinally extending frame structure, allows for a more compact design of the wave power generation device. This also allows for the reuse or common use of additional components from both sets of oscillating rotors. Furthermore, a maintenance bridge located within the frame structure enables maintenance of both the first and second sets of oscillating rotors.

[0072] In a second aspect, the present invention is a method for generating electricity using a wave power generation device according to a first aspect of the present invention.

[0073] The present invention relates to various aspects, including wave power generation devices and oscillating rotors described above and below, as well as corresponding system components, methods, apparatuses, systems, kits, uses and / or product devices, each aspect producing one or more benefits and advantages described in conjunction with the first aspect, and each aspect having one or more embodiments corresponding to the embodiments described in conjunction with the first aspect and / or the embodiments disclosed in the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0074] The above and other features and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A rocking rotor according to one aspect of the invention is shown. Figures 2a to 2b A rocking rotor with tapered ends is shown. Figure 3 A 3D view shows a rocking rotor including a rotor drive wheel. Figure 4 A rocking rotor according to one aspect of the invention is shown, the rocking rotor comprising a rotor drive wheel interconnected with a drive shaft by a belt. Figure 5 A rocking rotor is shown, comprising a rotor drive wheel and ballast located at each tapering end. Figures 6a to 6k Different views of the oscillating rotor, including the rotor drive wheel, are shown. Figure 7 A rocking rotor with a plate configured as an interface structure is shown. Figure 8The diagram shows a perspective view of two wave power generation devices with two arms in two different configurations. Figures 9a to 9b The images show oscillating rotors with and without ballast. Detailed Implementation

[0075] Various embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout the text. Therefore, the same elements will not be described in detail again in the description of each drawing. It should also be noted that the drawings are intended only to facilitate the description of embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention, nor are they intended as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. Furthermore, the illustrated embodiments do not need to have all the aspects or advantages shown. The aspects or advantages described in connection with the specific embodiments are not necessarily limited to that embodiment and may be practiced in any other embodiment even if not so shown or explicitly described as such.

[0076] Figure 1 An exemplary rocking rotor 1 is illustrated. The rocking rotor 1 includes: a float 12 having a housing 3; a bearing 7 disposed at a rotor shaft 5; and an interface configuration 9 configured to interconnect the float 12 with the bearing 7, such that the rocking rotor 1 is rotatably connected to the rotor shaft 5. The housing of the float 12 has a triangular shape, having a first side 4, a second side 4', and a third side 6, the first and second sides being a first convex side 4 and a second convex side 4', and the third side being a third concave side 6 facing the rotor shaft 5.

[0077] As can be seen, the opening or concave third side of the housing 3 is configured to be a distance d from the center of the rotor shaft 5, so that when the oscillating rotor 1 is placed in the operating position in water, the opening or concave third side of the housing tangentially contacts the water surface 17 (not shown). The circumference of the housing 3 surrounding the rotor shaft 5 does not exceed 180 degrees, such as 120 degrees surrounding the circumference of the rotor shaft 5. The oscillating rotor 1 is configured to maintain as follows: Figure 4 The asymmetric operating state described in the text refers to waves coming from a position at sea.

[0078] The asymmetrical operating state allows the oscillating rotor 1 to rotate vertically around the axis 5 when an incoming wave reaches the oscillating rotor 1. The concave third side 6 of the housing 1 is submerged below the water surface and tangent to the water surface 17 during the rotation of the oscillating rotor 1. The opening of the housing 3 can be described as being partially surrounded by the housing 3 because two tapering ends 33 are formed in the housing 3 on either side of the opening.

[0079] Preferably, the tapered ends 33 located on each side of the opening of the housing 3 generate torque only in the direction of rotation of the rocking rotor 3. The tapered ends 33 are preferably formed in a streamlined hydrodynamic form to minimize water resistance encountered when rotating in water.

[0080] Mechanical energy can be collected using methods such as cables, hydraulic cylinders, pumps, or belts.

[0081] Figure 2a The illustration shows a housing 3, in which a tapered end 33 is formed on each side of the opening of the housing 3; that is, the bottom ends of the convex first and second sides are tapered. This end can be rounded or straight, and it is conceivable that even if a straight or rectangular end face is shown, a rounded end face is preferred to reduce resistance encountered when moving in water. The thickness of the end 33 should preferably be as small as possible, because a smaller thickness of the tapered end 33 results in lower hydrodynamic resistance during the rotation of the oscillating rotor 1.

[0082] Figure 2b The illustration shows the housing 3, wherein the tapering ends 33 formed on each side of the opening in the housing 3 have increased thickness. Figure 2a Compared to the example shown in the diagram, Figure 2b The thickness of the tapered end 33 shown in the diagram provides greater hydrodynamic resistance. The surface of the tapered end 33, which is orthogonal to the rotation direction of the rocking rotor 1, can be rounded or planar.

[0083] Figure 3 An exemplary oscillating rotor 1 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. The oscillating rotor 1 includes: a housing 3; a bearing 7 interconnected with a shaft 5 of a frame structure 25 (not shown) via an interface configuration 9; and an opening in the housing 3 configured to be a distance d from the center of the rotor shaft 5 such that the opening tangentially contacts the water surface 17 (not shown) when the oscillating rotor 1 is placed in an operating position in water. The housing 3 of the oscillating rotor 1 also includes tapered ends 33 on each side of the opening.

[0084] Figure 3 Also shown is a rotor drive wheel 11 and a second interface configuration 15, the rotor drive wheel being secured to the housing 3 of the rocking rotor 1 by means of a fixing device 13, the second interface configuration being used to interconnect the rotor drive wheel 11 to a second bearing 7' arranged at the shaft 5. The first bearing 7 and the second bearing 7' may alternatively be the same bearing.

[0085] The rotor drive wheel 11 serves as a means of transmitting the torque generated by the rocking rotor 1 to the drive shaft 23, which is connected to the generator 29 by means of a means of transmitting rotational movement (such as belt 21).

[0086] Figure 4 The diagram illustrates a gyratory rotor 1 including a rotor drive wheel 11. The gyratory rotor 1 is positioned in the water in an operating position, wherein a float 3 is partially raised above the water surface 17. The gyratory rotor 1 is interconnected with a drive shaft 23 via a free-running mechanism (not shown) and a belt 21.

[0087] The operating position of the oscillating rotor 1 is configured by changing the center of gravity 19 of the oscillating rotor 1. The asymmetric center of gravity 19 can be achieved by using ballast (not shown) disposed in the float 12.

[0088] Preferably, the operating position of the oscillating rotor 1 is configured such that when subjected to incoming waves, at least a portion of the housing 3 of the oscillating rotor 1 is above the water surface 17, while a portion of the volume of the housing 3 is below the water surface 17. By immersing the housing 3 as much as possible below the water surface 17 while simultaneously configuring it to be at least partially above the water surface 17, the oscillating rotor 1 can have a large range of motion during rotation, while still being able to generate torque using the total mass of the incoming waves.

[0089] The float 12 of the oscillating rotor 1 can also be configured such that the oscillating rotor 1 has the desired intrinsic frequency or natural frequency.

[0090] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a rocking rotor 1 according to some embodiments. The rocking rotor 1 includes a housing 3 having an opening around a shaft 5. The housing 3 is interconnected to the shaft 5 via an interface configuration 9 arranged between the housing 3 and a bearing 7. The rocking rotor 1 also includes two ballasts 31. These two ballasts 31 are shown as part of a float 12. Preferably, the ballasts are enclosed by the housing, but for illustrative purposes, they are shown exposed. The ballasts 31 are made of concrete in this embodiment, but may alternatively be made of any known material used for ballast purposes. A rotor drive wheel 11 is secured to the housing 3 of the rocking rotor 1 by means of a fixing device 13. The rotor drive wheel 11 is also interconnected with a second bearing 7' arranged at the shaft 5 via a second interface configuration 15. The second bearing 7' may be the same as the bearing 7.

[0091] Figure 6a Figure 6k illustrates the oscillating rotor 1, including the rotor drive wheel 11, in a perspective view.

[0092] Figure 7 The diagram illustrates a rocking rotor 1 comprising a housing 3 and two interface structures 9. Each interface structure 9 includes a circular or disc-shaped plate 9, the radius of which is determined by the distance d between the rotor shaft 5 and the concave third side. The plate 9 is configured to interconnect the housing 3 of the rocking rotor 1 with a bearing 7 (not shown). The interface connection structure 9 may be part of the housing 3.

[0093] Figure 8 Two wave power generation devices 2 are illustrated, wherein one wave power generation device 2 includes a two-piece frame structure 25 adjacent at a rotary joint 27, while the other wave power generation device 2 includes a one-piece frame structure 25. Each wave power generation device 2 includes a plurality of oscillating rotors 1. The wave power generation device 2 with the two-piece frame structure 25 includes a plurality of oscillating rotors 1 on one side of the frame structure 25, while the wave power generation device 2 with the one-piece frame structure 25 includes a plurality of oscillating rotors 1 on both sides of the frame structure 25. The wave power generation device 2 includes a generator 29 arranged in each section of the frame structure 25 of the corresponding wave power generation device 2. The wave power generation device 2 also includes a drive shaft 23 arranged in each section of the frame structure 25 and connected to the corresponding generator 29 of the corresponding wave power generation device 2. Each oscillating rotor 1 also includes ballast 31 arranged in the hull 3 of the buoy.

[0094] A wave power generation device 2 comprising a two-piece frame structure 25 (such as comprising a first frame structure and a second frame structure) preferably includes an actuation device (not shown) for changing the angle between the two parts of the frame structure 25. Increasing the angle of the frame structure 25 allows the area covered by the plurality of oscillating rotors 1 of the wave power generation device 2 to be larger. This increased area covered by the plurality of oscillating rotors 1 can thereby increase the power generation of the wave power generation device 2. During severe marine conditions (such as strong winds and / or large waves), the angle between the two parts of the frame structure 25 can be reduced. Reducing the angle between the two parts of the two-piece frame structure 25 can reduce the impact of waves on the wave power generation device 2. While reducing wave impact may decrease power generation, it may also reduce mechanical wear on the wave power generation device 2.

[0095] A wave power generation device including a one-piece frame structure (such as including a first frame structure extending in the longitudinal direction) has: a first set of swing rotors 1, arranged along a first rotor shaft that extends in the longitudinal direction along a first side of the frame structure; and a second set of swing rotors 31, arranged along a second rotor shaft that extends in the longitudinal direction along a second side of the frame structure.

[0096] The frame structure, featuring two sets of oscillating rotors positioned on each side of a longitudinally extending frame structure, allows for a more compact design of the wave power generation device. This also allows for the reuse or common use of additional components from both sets of oscillating rotors. Furthermore, a maintenance bridge located within the frame structure enables maintenance of both the first and second sets of oscillating rotors.

[0097] The wave power generation device 2, including the one-piece frame structure 25, has the advantage of better durability and can withstand harsh marine conditions such as strong winds and / or large waves. The one-piece frame structure 25 enables the wave power generation device 2 to have a durable design while reducing the number of components required for power generation.

[0098] Figure 9a The figure illustrates a rocking rotor 1 according to the prior art, with and without ballast 31. The illustration shows the effect of ballast 31 on the operational rest position of the rocking rotor 1 placed in water 17. The rocking rotor 1 according to the invention differs from the prior art in that the housing 3 has an opening around a shaft 5 (not shown), wherein the housing 3 does not surround the entire circumference of the shaft 5 (not shown). The opening of the housing 3 introduces two tapered ends 33 into the housing 3. The function of the open design of the housing 3 with two tapered ends 33 is to... Figure 9a and Figure 9b Compared to the oscillating rotor 1 in the previous invention, the oscillating rotor 1 of the present invention generates a greater torque during rotation. The increased torque generated by the oscillating rotor 1 of the present invention is at least partly due to a reduction in hydrodynamic resistance and friction, and at least partly due to a reduction or complete elimination of the buoyant mass that generates torque in the direction opposite to the rotation direction of the oscillating rotor 1. Figure 9a and Figure 9b The oscillating rotor 1 is affected by friction, resistance and reaction torque during rotation, because a part of the housing 3 is arranged at a position that does not contribute to the generation of torque during the rotation of the oscillating rotor 1.

[0099] Figure 9b The diagram illustrates the effect of the ballast 31 of the oscillating rotor 1 on the center of gravity 19 and the range of motion. Figure 9b The oscillating rotor 1 depicted is not the oscillating rotor according to the invention, but is described to illustrate the variation in the range of motion caused by the ballast 31 incorporated into the oscillating rotor 1. The ballast 31 ensures that the oscillating rotor 1 has a balanced asymmetrical operating position when placed in water (not shown). The asymmetrical operating position ensures the range of motion of the oscillating rotor 1, allowing it to alternate between a vertical and a horizontal position when subjected to wave impact. For illustrative purposes, the range of motion of the oscillating rotor 1 is illustrated with dashed lines.

[0100] The buoyancy of the hull 3 generates torque when rotating the oscillating rotor 1 to a vertical position. Subsequently, after the impact wave passes, the oscillating rotor 1 will rotate to a horizontal position. Due to the inertia provided by the mass of the ballast 31, the oscillating rotor can also rotate to a position lower than the horizontal position and below the water surface 17 (not shown).

[0101] List of reference numerals

[0102] 1. Oscillating rotor

[0103] 2. Wave power generation equipment

[0104] d. Distance

[0105] 3. Shell

[0106] 4, 4' Convex side

[0107] 5. Rotor shaft

[0108] 6. Concave side

[0109] 7 bearings

[0110] 7' Second bearing

[0111] 8. Center of Rotation

[0112] 9 Interface Construction

[0113] 10 Top Vertex

[0114] 11 Rotor drive wheel

[0115] 12 floats

[0116] 13 Fixing devices

[0117] 15 Second Interface Construction

[0118] 17. Water surface

[0119] 19. Center of gravity (cog)

[0120] 21 belts

[0121] 23 Drive shaft

[0122] 25. Frame Construction

[0123] 27 Rotary Joint

[0124] 29 Generator

[0125] 31 Ballast

[0126] 33. Tapered end

Claims

1. A wave power generation device, comprising: A frame structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a rotor shaft extending in the longitudinal direction of the frame structure. Multiple oscillating rotors, the multiple oscillating rotors being arranged to rotate about the rotor axis relative to the frame configuration. Each of the aforementioned rocking rotors includes: A floating body having a shell, The bearing is arranged at the rotor shaft. An interface configuration is provided to interconnect the float with the bearing, such that the oscillating rotor is rotatably connected to the rotor shaft. The shell of the float has a triangular shape and has a first side, a second side and a third side. The first side and the second side are first convex sides and second convex sides, and the third side is a third concave side, which faces the rotor shaft.

2. The wave power generation device according to claim 1, wherein, The third side of the triangular housing is configured to be submerged in water when the oscillating rotor is positioned in the operating position in the wave generator.

3. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The concave side is shaped as an arc of a circle, such as the concave side being shaped as part of the circumference of a circle.

4. The wave power generation device according to claim 3, wherein, The third concave side is configured to tangentially contact the water surface when the oscillating rotor is placed in the intended operating position in the water.

5. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The interface is constructed to extend between the third concave side and the rotor shaft with the bearing.

6. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the said rocking rotors is configured such that each of the said rocking rotors in the floating stationary position presents an asymmetrical stationary position, wherein the top vertex of the housing extends upward at an angle ranging from 25° to 70° relative to the vertical direction, such as in the range of 30° to 60°.

7. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Each of the oscillating rotors includes a rotor drive wheel that is fixedly connected to the float.

8. The wave power generation device according to claim 7, wherein, The rotor drive wheel is rotatably interconnected to the rotor shaft via the bearing.

9. The wave power generation device according to any one of claims 7 and 8, wherein, The rotor drive wheels are interconnected to the frame structure via drive shafts.

10. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, One or more of the plurality of said rocking rotors include one or more ballasts.

11. The wave power generation device according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more ballasts are arranged in the float of one or more of the multiple oscillating rotors.

12. The wave power generation device according to claim 11, wherein, The one or more ballasts arranged in the float are arranged opposite to the top apex formed by the first convex side and the second convex side.

13. The wave power generation device according to claims 10 to 11, wherein, The one or more ballasts arranged in the float are substantially arranged in one of the two convex sides of the float.

14. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The wave power generation device includes: One or more generators are arranged in the frame structure, and At least one drive shaft is interconnected with the oscillating rotor and the one or more generators.

15. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one drive shaft is interconnected with the rocking rotor via a free-running mechanism.

16. The wave power generation device according to claim 15, wherein, The free-running mechanism can be activated when the rocking rotor moves upward or downward.

17. The wave power generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The framework construction includes: The first frame structure and the second frame structure are adjacent at the rotary joint, and An actuation device for arranging the first frame structure and the second frame structure at an angle θ in the horizontal direction, wherein the actuation device is arranged to change the angle θ between 0° and 180°, such as changing the angle between 45° and 135°.

18. A method for generating electricity using a wave power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

19. A rocking rotor for use in a wave power generation device, the rocking rotor comprising: A floating body having a shell, Bearings, the bearings being configured to be arranged at the rotor shaft, and An interface configuration is provided to interconnect the float and the bearing. The shell of the float has a triangular shape and has a first side, a second side and a third side. The first side and the second side are first convex sides and second convex sides, and the third side is a third concave side, which faces the rotor shaft.

20. The rocking rotor according to claim 19, wherein, The interface is constructed to extend between the third concave side and the bearing configured to be disposed at the rotor shaft.

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