Device for generating energy from wave

Abstract

A wave energy device for generating rotary mechanical energy has a floating energy generating compartment and upper and lower inclined guide surfaces for limiting and guiding the movement of the energy generating compartment. The device is partially submerged in the body of water and the energy generating compartment rolls in a one-way fashion about the compartment axis of rotation along the guide surface to rise up to the slope in response to forces from waves in the body of water and roll down to the slope in response to gravity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a device for generating unidirectional rotational kinetic energy from waves, such as waves originating from lake, sea, or ocean swells. The invention also relates to a device for generating electricity and a desalination device. Background Technology

[0002] The need for developing reliable, efficient, readily available, and usable methods for generating renewable energy is increasingly urgent. Wave motion in oceans or lakes contains enormous kinetic energy, thus possessing immense energy generation potential. Numerous system designs exist that attempt to harness this wave energy and convert it into a usable form. However, most of these designs have failed to be implemented or achieved commercial success due to the complexity, instability, inefficiency, and / or the economics and expertise required to install, repair, maintain, and operate such systems. For example, some systems may be inoperable or only minimally operable in low-wave environments. Some installation sites may be dangerous and difficult to access, with the associated risks and challenges exacerbated by the large size and maneuverability of the installation.

[0003] The purpose of at least the preferred embodiments of the present invention is to address one or more of the above-mentioned disadvantages and / or at least provide the public with a useful alternative.

[0004] In this specification, references have been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, typically to provide context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless otherwise expressly stated, references to such external documents or sources of information should not be construed as an admission that such documents or sources of information are prior art or constitute part of common general knowledge in the art within any jurisdiction. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a wave energy device for generating rotational mechanical energy. The device includes a floating energy-generating chamber and upper and lower inclined guiding surfaces arranged to restrict and guide the movement of the energy-generating chamber. The device is configured to be partially submerged in water. The energy-generating chamber is configured to roll unidirectionally about a rotational axis of the chamber along the guiding surfaces as it rises in response to the force of waves from the water body and falls in response to gravity.

[0006] The upper and lower guide surfaces can be spaced apart and face each other. The upper and lower guide surfaces can be substantially parallel. The upper and lower guide surfaces can be aligned vertically.

[0007] The device may include two pairs of upper and lower guide surfaces, and the generation chamber has two coaxial drive shafts, each drive shaft being arranged to roll along one of the pairs of upper and lower guide surfaces, thereby causing the generation chamber to rotate about the chamber's rotation axis.

[0008] Optionally, each drive shaft includes an engagement portion for alternately engaging corresponding upper and lower guide surfaces, the engagement portion including a gripping reinforcement feature structure for reducing slippage between the drive shaft and the corresponding guide surface. The gripping reinforcement feature structure may include an elastic surface or another material or coating to provide an improved coefficient of friction. In one embodiment, the gripping reinforcement feature structure includes reconstituted rubber with a polyurethane bond.

[0009] In one embodiment, the upper and lower guide surfaces include gripping reinforcement surfaces. The gripping reinforcement surfaces may include knurled or other uneven surfaces. In one embodiment, the gripping reinforcement surfaces are provided by a surface treatment comprising shards of glass and epoxy resin.

[0010] In one embodiment, the tilt angles of the upper and lower tilt guide surfaces are adjustable.

[0011] In one embodiment, when the energy generating chamber rises, its movement is guided by the upper guiding surface, and when the energy generating chamber descends, its movement is guided by the lower guiding surface.

[0012] The device can be anchored or moored on the seabed or land, or on natural features of a movable structure or vehicle that can be moved, positioned, and oriented from the shore.

[0013] The device can be partially submerged in water at such a height that most of the upper and lower guide surfaces are above the wave troughs and most of the upper and lower guide surfaces are below the wave crests.

[0014] In one embodiment, the height of the guide surface is adjustable. Alternatively, the height of the guide surface may be fixed.

[0015] In one embodiment, the volume and weight of the energy generation chamber are selected such that its weight is about 10% to about 80% of the weight of an equivalent drainage volume from the water body / the weight of the same drainage volume of water. For example, the volume and weight of the energy generation chamber are selected such that its weight is about 40% to about 60% of the weight of an equivalent drainage volume from the water body. In one embodiment, the volume and weight of the energy generation chamber are selected such that its weight is about 50% of the weight of an equivalent drainage volume from the water body.

[0016] The device may include ballast. Ballast may contain water or may include a suitable amount of solid material.

[0017] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a wave energy device for generating electrical energy, comprising the device according to the first aspect, wherein the energy generation chamber includes a housing and a generator having a drive shaft. The generator is rotatable relative to the housing about a rotation axis of the chamber, and the relative rotation of the generator drives the drive shaft to rotate to generate electrical energy.

[0018] In one embodiment, a pinion is operatively coupled to a drive shaft and a complementary ring gear disposed within a housing and arranged to rotate with the housing, wherein rotation of the housing causes rotation of the pinion. The pinion can be coupled to the drive shaft via a clutch. The clutch can be a strut clutch or any other suitable clutch.

[0019] In one embodiment, the generator is arranged to be suspended on a support, which is arranged to rotate relative to the hull about the hull's rotation axis, such that when the hull rotates, the main part of the generator remains in the lower part of the energy-generating hull.

[0020] In one embodiment, the generator is an alternating current generator.

[0021] In one embodiment, the drive shaft is parallel to and offset from the cabin rotation axis.

[0022] In one embodiment, the drive shaft is connected to the flywheel.

[0023] Cables can be provided to transmit electricity generated by the generator outside the energy generation compartment. In one embodiment, the cable exits the housing along the compartment's axis of rotation. A slip ring can be positioned at the point where the cable exits the housing.

[0024] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a desalination apparatus comprising an energy generating device according to the first aspect, wherein the energy generating chamber includes a housing, a pump disposed within the housing, and a reverse osmosis filter fluidly connected to the pump. The filter has an inlet for receiving brine and an outlet for providing desalinated water. The pump and the filter are rotatable relative to the housing about a rotation axis of the chamber, and the relative rotation between the housing and the pump and filter drives a pump drive mechanism to draw or drive brine through the filter.

[0025] In one embodiment, the housing includes or defines a brine reservoir, and a pump is fluidly coupled to the reservoir. The housing may include multiple inlets to allow brine to enter the reservoir.

[0026] The device includes an inner casing within a housing that houses and fixes the pump and filter relative to them, while the housing is rotatable relative to the inner casing. The inner casing may be waterproof. The inner casing is typically air-filled, but alternatively may contain a vacuum or other gas.

[0027] In one embodiment, the pump includes an inlet arranged to draw brine through a hole in the housing.

[0028] In one embodiment, at least the main parts of the pump and filter are suspended below the axis of rotation under the influence of gravity.

[0029] In one embodiment, the pump includes a drive shaft and provides a drive coupling to operatively connect a housing to the pump drive shaft; wherein rotation of the housing thereby causes rotation of the drive shaft. The drive coupling may be connected to the drive shaft via a clutch.

[0030] The central support can be positioned along the axis of rotation and fixed to rotate together with the housing, wherein the drive coupling connects the pump to the central support.

[0031] In one embodiment, the filter outlet fluid is connected to a hose that exits the device along the axis of rotation to deliver demineralized water out of the device.

[0032] The filter may include one or more auxiliary outlets for conveying waste brine from the equipment.

[0033] The housing may include multiple curved waste outlets in fluid communication with one or more auxiliary outlets of the filter for dispersing waste brine outside the equipment, and its size and arrangement are such that the fluid leaving the tangential outlets causes torque in the generation chamber in the direction of rotation.

[0034] In one embodiment, the housing includes a plurality of tangential waste outlets in fluid communication with one or more auxiliary outlets of the filter for dispersing waste brine outside the equipment. The tangential outlets may be oriented / extended in a direction opposite to the unidirectional rotation direction of the generation chamber, such that the fluid exiting the tangential outlets generates torque on the generation chamber.

[0035] In one embodiment, the device may include multiple filters. The filters may be arranged in series or in parallel.

[0036] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a device for generating electrical energy, comprising: a housing configured to rotate about a rotation axis; and a generator disposed within the housing. The housing is rotatable relative to the generator, and wherein the housing and the generator are connected by a drive coupling such that rotation of the housing relative to the generator drives the generator, thereby generating electrical energy.

[0037] In one embodiment, the generator is arranged to allow the generator to orbit around an axis of rotation.

[0038] In one embodiment, the generator is arranged to be suspended below the axis of rotation under the influence of gravity. For example, the generator is arranged to be suspended below the axis of rotation under the influence of gravity throughout the entire rotation of the housing. In another embodiment, the generator is arranged to be suspended from a support, and the support is arranged to rotate relative to the housing about the axis of rotation.

[0039] The generator may include a drive shaft, and the drive coupling may include a pinion operatively coupled to the drive shaft, wherein a complementary ring gear is provided inside the housing, the ring gear being arranged to rotate together with the housing; wherein rotation of the housing thereby causes rotation of the pinion.

[0040] In one embodiment, the pinion is connected to the drive shaft via a clutch, such as a strut clutch, flywheel clutch, overrunning clutch, or any other suitable clutch.

[0041] In one embodiment, the drive shaft is parallel to and offset from the axis of rotation.

[0042] In one embodiment, the generator is an AC generator.

[0043] The device can also be equipped with a flywheel to achieve stable power generation.

[0044] A cable may be installed to transmit electrical energy generated by the generator to the outside of the housing. This cable may exit the housing along the rotation axis of the generator compartment.

[0045] The housing may be watertight. The housing may typically be filled with air, but alternatively may contain a vacuum or other gases.

[0046] In one embodiment, the housing includes two coaxial drive shafts along a rotation axis, and the drive shafts are configured to roll along a guide surface to cause rotation of the housing.

[0047] In one embodiment, each drive shaft includes an engagement portion having a gripping enhancement feature structure for engaging a guide surface and reducing slippage between the drive shaft and the guide surface. The gripping enhancement feature structure may include an elastic or similar surface.

[0048] In one embodiment, the device is used in a body of water, and the housing is sealed to prevent water from entering.

[0049] In one embodiment, the volume and weight of the device are selected such that its weight is about 10% to about 80% of the weight of water from an equivalent drainage volume from a body of water. For example, the volume and weight of the device are selected such that its weight is about 40% to about 60% of the weight of water from an equivalent drainage volume from a body of water. In one embodiment, the volume and weight of the device are selected such that its weight is about 50% of the weight of water from an equivalent drainage volume from a body of water.

[0050] The equipment may include ballast (which may be brine or a solid material of suitable density).

[0051] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a water treatment apparatus comprising a housing configured to rotate about a rotation axis, a pump disposed within the housing, and a filter fluidly connected to the pump, the filter having an inlet for receiving water and an outlet for providing filtered water. The housing is rotatable relative to the pump and the filter, and the housing and the pump are connected via a drive coupling such that rotation of the housing relative to the pump drives the pump to draw water or drive water through the filter.

[0052] Water treatment equipment may have any one or more of the features described in the third aspect above.

[0053] In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a desalination apparatus comprising a housing configured to rotate about a rotation axis, a pump disposed within the housing, and a reverse osmosis filter fluidly connected to the pump, the reverse osmosis filter having an inlet for receiving brine and an outlet for providing desalinated water. The housing is rotatable relative to the pump and the filter, and the housing and the pump are connected via a drive coupling such that rotation of the housing relative to the pump drives the pump to draw or drive brine through the filter.

[0054] In one embodiment, the housing includes or defines a brine reservoir, and a pump is fluidly coupled to the reservoir. The housing may include multiple inlets to allow brine to enter the reservoir. The inlets may include filters or screens to prevent aquatic wildlife or debris from entering the reservoir.

[0055] In one embodiment, the device includes an inner housing located within a housing, the inner housing containing a pump and a filter, and fixed relative to the pump and the filter, wherein the housing is rotatable relative to the inner housing.

[0056] In one embodiment, the inner casing is sealed to prevent water from entering the casing.

[0057] The pump may include an inlet arranged to draw brine through a hole in the housing.

[0058] In one embodiment, the pump and filter are arranged to allow the pump and filter to orbit relative to the housing about an axis of rotation.

[0059] In one embodiment, the pump is arranged to be suspended from the axis of rotation by gravity.

[0060] In one embodiment, the filter is arranged to be suspended below the axis of rotation under the influence of gravity.

[0061] In one embodiment, the pump is arranged to be suspended below the axis of rotation under gravity throughout the entire rotation of the housing.

[0062] In one embodiment, the filter is arranged to be suspended below the axis of rotation under the influence of gravity throughout the entire rotation of the housing.

[0063] In one embodiment, the pump includes a drive shaft, and the drive coupling includes a belt drive or other gear assembly operatively coupled to the housing and the pump drive shaft; wherein rotation of the housing thereby causes rotation of the drive shaft.

[0064] In one embodiment, the drive coupling is connected to the drive shaft via a clutch, such as a strut clutch, flywheel clutch, overrunning clutch, or any other suitable clutch.

[0065] In one embodiment, the drive shaft is parallel to and offset from the axis of rotation.

[0066] The central support can be arranged along the axis of rotation and fixed to rotate together with the housing, wherein the drive connector is attached to the central support.

[0067] In one embodiment, the filter outlet fluid is connected to a hose that exits the device along the axis of rotation to deliver demineralized water out of the device.

[0068] In one embodiment, the filter includes one or more auxiliary outlets for conveying waste brine from the device.

[0069] The housing may include a plurality of curved waste outlets in fluid communication with one or more auxiliary outlets of the filter for dispersing waste brine outside the equipment, the plurality of curved waste outlets being arranged such that fluid exiting the tangential outlets causes torque in the generation chamber in the direction of rotation.

[0070] The housing may include a plurality of tangential waste liquid outlets in fluid communication with one or more auxiliary outlets of the filter for dispersing waste brine outside the equipment.

[0071] In one embodiment, the tangential outlet extends in the opposite direction to the rotational direction of the device, such that fluid exiting the tangential outlet causes torque on the device in the rotational direction.

[0072] The housing may include two coaxial drive shafts along a rotation axis, and the drive shafts are configured to roll along a guide surface to cause rotation of the housing.

[0073] Each drive shaft includes an engagement portion having a gripping enhancement feature structure for engaging a guide surface and reducing slippage between the drive shaft and the guide surface. The gripping enhancement feature structure may include an elastic surface or another material that provides an increased coefficient of friction.

[0074] In one embodiment, the volume and weight of the device are selected such that its weight is about 10% to about 80% of the weight of water from an equivalent drainage volume from a body of water. For example, the volume and weight of the device are selected such that its weight is about 40% to about 60% of the weight of water from an equivalent drainage volume from a body of water. In one embodiment, the volume and weight of the device are selected such that its weight is about 50% of the weight of water from an equivalent drainage volume from a body of water.

[0075] The device may include ballast. For example, ballast for filling with a variable amount of water, or ballast made of a solid material of appropriate density.

[0076] In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides a water pumping device, comprising: an outer housing configured to rotate about a rotation axis; a pump disposed within the outer housing; wherein the outer housing is rotatable relative to the pump; and wherein the outer housing and the pump are operably connected by a drive coupling such that rotation of the outer housing relative to the pump drives the pump to extract water from the device or drive it to shore for storage and use.

[0077] The water pumping equipment may have any one or more of the features described above with respect to the third aspect.

[0078] This invention can also be broadly interpreted to include any components, elements, and features individually or jointly mentioned or pointed out in the specification of this application, as well as any or all combinations of any two or more of said components, elements, or features. Specific integrals mentioned herein have known equivalents in the field of this invention, which are considered to be included herein as if described separately.

[0079] The term “comprising” as used in this specification and claims means “consisting of at least a portion of…”. When interpreting statements in this specification and claims that include the term “comprising,” other features may be present in addition to those beginning with that term. Related terms such as “comprising” and “having” will be interpreted in a similar manner.

[0080] The term "wave" as used in this specification and claims includes waves and swells generated on lakes, rivers, seas and oceans.

[0081] The range of numbers disclosed herein (e.g., 1 to 10) also includes all rational numbers within that range and any range of rational numbers within that range (e.g., 1 to 6, 1.5 to 5.5, and 3.1 to 10). Therefore, all subranges of all ranges explicitly disclosed herein are explicitly disclosed herein.

[0082] As used herein, the term "one or more" preceding a noun indicates the plural and / or singular form of that noun. As used herein, the term "and / or" means "and" or "or," or, where the context allows, both. Attached Figure Description

[0083] The invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0084] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of an example device used to generate rotational energy from surging waves;

[0085] Figure 2 This is a side view, showing Figure 1 The equipment is operated in a configuration where the energy generation chamber is located between the crests and troughs of the waves.

[0086] Figure 3 It is a partial perspective view, showing the area located at the crest of the wave. Figure 1 The location of the energy generation chamber of the equipment;

[0087] Figure 4 This is a partial perspective view, showing the location at the trough. Figure 1 The location of the energy generation chamber of the equipment;

[0088] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of one embodiment of an energy generation chamber used to generate electrical energy;

[0089] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the energy generation chamber; and

[0090] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus for desalination;

[0091] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Cross-sectional perspective view of the equipment; and

[0092] Figure 9 yes Figure 7 and 8 Another cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment;

[0093] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an apparatus for desalination; and

[0094] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a device for generating rotational energy from surging waves. Detailed Implementation

[0095] Although the invention may be implemented in many different forms to facilitate understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to... Figures 1 to 6 , Figures 1 to 6 An exemplary embodiment of apparatus 1 is shown for generating rotational energy, for example, in a lake, sea or ocean, from the horizontal (surge) and / or vertical (undulation) force components of waves and the associated buoyancy / displacement forces.

[0096] Reference Figure 1 Device 1 includes a buoyancy energy generating chamber 3 and upper and lower inclined guide surfaces 5 and 7. Device 1 is configured to be partially submerged in water during use. In use, a portion or most of the device can extend above the water.

[0097] The upper and lower inclined guide surfaces 5 and 7 are two substantially parallel surfaces, spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. The upper and lower inclined guide surfaces 5 and 7 can be opposite, facing surfaces. The upper guide surface 5 can be located directly above the lower guide surface, or it can be horizontally offset.

[0098] Some embodiments may include more than one upper guide surface 5 and more than one lower guide surface 7. In the illustrated embodiment, device 1 includes two laterally spaced and parallel upper guide surfaces 5 and two laterally spaced and parallel lower guide surfaces 7. These guide surfaces 5, 7 are arranged as opposing upper and lower inclined guide surfaces, one pair on the left and one pair on the right.

[0099] Each pair of upper and lower guide surfaces 5, 7 defines a motion track 6 between them for receiving a portion of the energy generation chamber 3. The motion track 6 is shaped like an elongated slot with a slot width w wider than the diameter of the received portion of the energy generation chamber 3, such that the received portion contacts only one of the upper and lower guide surfaces 5, 7 at a given time.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper and lower guide surfaces 5, 7 are in the form of guide rails provided by the frame 4. The frame includes a support structure and end stops 11a, 11b, which connect each upper guide surface 5 to a corresponding lower guide surface 7 and define the ends of the motion rails 6. Optionally, the frame may include other components to provide rigidity, particularly maintaining the spacing between the upper and lower guide surfaces 5, 7. In alternative embodiments, the frame 4 may have other forms. For example, each motion rail 6 may be provided by an inclined slot in a plate, wherein the two sides of the slot form the upper and lower guide surfaces.

[0101] The guide surfaces 5 and 7 are inclined relative to the horizontal plane. The inclination, length, and height of the guide surfaces 5 and 7 are selected such that the lower end 11a is positioned below the lowest expected trough, so that they remain submerged during use, and the upper end 11b is positioned above the highest expected crest during use.

[0102] For applications where the device is installed at tidal locations, wave crests may be highest at high tide and wave troughs may be lowest during low tide. The device can optionally be installed and configured to rise and fall with the tides, such that it is positioned higher relative to the seabed at high tide and lower relative to the seabed at low tide.

[0103] In some embodiments, the upper guide surface 5 and the lower guide surface 7 may include vertical or near-vertical portions at the upper and / or lower ends of the guide surfaces to allow additional upward movement at the upper end of the motion track 6 and / or additional downward movement at the lower end of the motion track 6. This can reduce the risk of excessive force transmission to the frame in cases where the crest exceeds the expected height or the trough is below the expected height. The upper ends 11b and / or lower ends 11a of the two guide surfaces 5, 7 may be joined (as shown) to form end stops, or opened in embodiments having a sufficiently redundant length exceeding the expected maximum motion height and below the expected minimum motion height.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, guide surfaces 5 and 7 are oriented with a tilt angle of 1:4. However, the tilt angle can vary between embodiments and can be selected based on the characteristics of the installation site, the inertial characteristics of the energy generation chamber, the desired waveform (including amplitude and frequency), and / or the requirements for output generation. For example, the guide surfaces can be tilted at an angle α, which ranges from about 3 degrees to about 70 degrees, preferably from about 5 degrees to about 45 degrees, for example, from about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees. In the exemplary embodiment shown herein, the tilt angle α is about 14 degrees above the horizontal plane, but in alternative embodiments, the tilt angle can be smaller or larger.

[0105] In some embodiments, the tilt angle α can be adjustable. For example, this can be achieved by adjusting the angle of the frame 4, or by tilting the frame 4 or the device 1 as a whole. The angle α can be adjusted during installation and / or during use of the device 1 to adjust the performance of the device according to the current wave conditions at the installation site.

[0106] In some embodiments, the tilt angle α can be configured to vary between the upward and downward strokes of the device. For example, in one embodiment, the rails can be articulated or pivotable about an axis near the lower end of the rails, allowing them to move between a maximum tilt angle and a minimum tilt angle. The rails can be biased towards the maximum tilt angle. During the upward movement of the energy generation chamber 3, the tilt of the rails is steeper, while during the downward movement of the energy generation chamber 3, the tilt of the rails is gentler, as the mass of the energy generation chamber under gravity reduces the tilt. This configuration can help improve synchronization between the device and the primary waveform, especially in environments where the waveform is not sinusoidal. This can provide elements for automatic environmental adjustment and optimization for the prevailing conditions.

[0107] The adjustment of the tilt angle between upward and downward movements can alternatively be configured to intentionally induce asynchrony / dissynchronization between the equipment and the waves. For example, it would be optimal if the equipment were determined to be "out of phase" with the primary waves in response to ambient conditions. Asynchronous movement may be ideal in embodiments where the tilt angle of the guide surface is small and the wave motion causes the cabin to be heavily submerged and immersed by the waves.

[0108] The inclined guide surfaces 5 and 7 can follow a linear or wavy inclined path. Guide surfaces 5 and 7 can include linear, horizontal, or angled, or wavy, such as curved, cross-sectional profiles. The cross-sectional profiles of the two guide surfaces can be opposite and symmetrical. Curved or symmetrical angled profiles can facilitate consistent engagement, prevent “tracking” or twisting of the chamber 3 around the vertical axis, and / or adjust the rotational speed of the energy-generating chamber along the motion track 6.

[0109] Now refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 The drive shaft 9 may include positioning features such as a lip or flange 12, or other profiles, to precisely position the engagement portion of the drive shaft on the corresponding guide surface and / or prevent excessive lateral movement of the drive shaft 9, and keep the generating chamber 3 orthogonally oriented relative to the guide rail, and minimize or prevent “transfer” or twisting around the vertical axis. Figure 11 The illustrated embodiment 201 shows an alternative form of flange for engaging the guide rail. Additionally or alternatively, a stabilizer extending longitudinally along the length of the guide rail can be provided to provide additional rigidity.

[0110] By coating the lip or flange 12 or other stabilizers that contact the guide rail, and / or the corresponding contact sides of the guide rail or frame 4 with a low-friction material or coating (such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)), the "transfer" or twisting of the generation chamber around the vertical axis can also be minimized or prevented. The UHMWPE coating is to ensure that the generation chamber does not get stuck on the guide rail.

[0111] The upper guide surface 5 and the lower guide surface 7 each include gripping enhancement features to increase the coefficient of friction between the energy generation chamber and the surface. For example, guide surfaces 5 and 7 may each include textured surfaces, such as knurled, grooved, or other serrated surfaces. Alternatively, the upper guide surface 5 and the lower guide surface 7 may be coated with a friction-enhancing coating or covering, or include materials selected to provide increased friction between the guide surfaces 5 and 7 and the energy generation chamber.

[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the energy generation chamber 3 includes two coaxial drive shafts 9. The drive shafts 9 extend along and define the chamber's rotation axis RA.

[0113] The drive shaft 9 can be fixed to the main body of the energy generation chamber 3, which is the shell 10, so that the main body and the drive shaft 9 move and rotate synchronously as a whole. The drive shaft 9 can be integrally formed with the main body of the energy generation chamber 3, or it can be fixedly attached to the shell 10.

[0114] In several alternative embodiments, the drive shaft 9 may be rotatably mounted relative to the body of the energy generation chamber 3 and connected to the body of the energy generation chamber, for example via a drive coupler such as a belt drive and a variable transmission system, such that rotation of the drive shaft at a first speed causes the body to rotate at a different second speed.

[0115] Each drive shaft 9 includes an engagement portion that is received by a corresponding guide rail 6 and is arranged to engage and roll along corresponding upper and lower guide surfaces 5, 7. This results in the cabin 3 rotating about the cabin's axis of rotation RA.

[0116] The engagement portion of the drive shaft may include gripping enhancement features to reduce slippage between the drive shaft 9 and the corresponding guide surfaces 5, 7. For example, the engagement portion may be encapsulated / covered in an elastic material such as a heavy-duty rubber coating or covering. Alternatively, the engagement portion may include a coating or covering made of an alternative material that increases the coefficient of friction between the drive shaft 9 and the corresponding guide surfaces 5, 7. Alternatively, the drive shaft 9 may each include a textured surface, such as knurled, grooved, or other serrated surface, or alternative treatments, coatings, or coverings. The gripping enhancement features are designed to interface with the friction-enhanced upper guide surface 5 and lower guide surface 7 to prevent the drive shaft from slipping along the guide surfaces; instead, these shafts will grip the relevant surfaces, forcing the generating chamber to rotate on its axis to move along the motion track 6.

[0117] In some alternative embodiments, the upper guide surface 5 and the lower guide surface 7 may include engagement features, such as uneven surfaces, ribs, or a series of recesses, which are configured to engage complementary engagement features or complementary shaft profiles on the drive shaft 9 to prevent slippage between components.

[0118] In several other embodiments, one or more pairs of laterally parallel auxiliary guide rails may be present on either side of the circumferential "fin" protruding from the production chamber, below and / or above the production chamber. These pairs of auxiliary guide rails can help provide additional guidance to the chamber during linear movement, which may be useful depending on the primary environmental conditions.

[0119] Some embodiments may include feature structures on the exterior of the cabin for maximizing the use of waves to promote rotation, such as embedded profiles or blades.

[0120] In the illustrated embodiment, the width w of the guide rail 6 is greater than the diameter of the shaft 9, such that the drive shaft 9 contacts only the lower guide surface 7 or the upper guide surface 5 at any given time. The width w of the guide rail 6 is chosen to be only slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft 9. Preferably, the width w is chosen to be in the range of about 101% to about 110% of the diameter of the shaft 9.

[0121] The energy-generating chamber 3 is a floating body, meaning it is lighter than an equivalent volume of water it displaces, and therefore, when partially or fully submerged, it is subject to buoyancy, which causes it to rise to the surface of the water. The volume and weight of the energy-generating chamber 3 are selected such that the weight of the energy-generating chamber 3 is in the range of about 10% to about 80% of the weight of the equivalent displaced volume of water. For embodiments used in brine, the weight of the energy-generating chamber 3 can be in the range of about 10% to about 80% of the weight of the equivalent displaced volume of brine. For embodiments used in freshwater, the weight of the energy-generating chamber 3 can be in the range of about 10% to about 80% of the weight of the equivalent displaced volume of freshwater. In some embodiments, the volume and weight of the energy-generating chamber 3 are selected such that the weight is in the range of about 40% to about 60% of the weight of the equivalent displaced volume of freshwater or brine. In this embodiment, the weight of the energy-generating chamber 3 is about 50% of the weight of the equivalent displaced volume of freshwater or brine.

[0122] The ratio of the longitudinal length of the energy generation chamber to its diameter or lateral dimension can vary between embodiments. Some embodiments of the generation chamber will have a higher length-to-diameter ratio, while others will have a lower length-to-diameter ratio. The shape and aspects of the energy generation chamber can be selected based on the intended location and environmental conditions. Several other embodiments may have a non-circular cross-sectional profile.

[0123] The shell 10 of the energy generation chamber 3 may comprise a polymeric material, such as high-density polyethylene, or any other suitable material, such as aluminum alloy or composite material. Ballast (not shown) may be provided within the shell 10 to increase the weight of the chamber 3 to the desired value. The ballast may comprise spaces, tanks, or chambers within the chamber 3, which may be at least partially filled with water. This advantageously allows for the addition of extra weight to the energy generation chamber at the installation site, thus avoiding the need to transport the extra weight from land or shore to that location, and can be modified by the user to optimize the equipment in response to prevailing environmental conditions. The ballast may have sufficient capacity so that it can be selectively filled to submerge the energy generation chamber, for example, temporarily for storm survival.

[0124] Device 1 is designed to be anchored to the seabed, land, or structure to partially submerge itself in the water. The device can be directly attached to the land, for example by tethering, or anchored to existing infrastructure such as oil rigs, offshore wind turbines, breakwaters, docks, or breakwaters, for example by tethering or securing the device to the infrastructure, or anchored to an underwater free-swinging mooring structure. Alternatively, the device can be located on a movable structure or vehicle / transportation capable of being moved, positioned, and oriented from the shore. Device 1 is configured to be oriented with guide rail 6 substantially parallel to the direction S of the swell, and the lower end 11a of the guide surface is in the water and facing the direction of the upcoming swell.

[0125] Device 1 can be fixed to the ground or positioned on a movable structure or vehicle capable of being moved, positioned, and oriented from the shore at a location / position with a consistent swell / wave direction, such as for onshore and nearshore locations. For locations where the swell direction S is variable, the orientation of the device can be adjusted. For example, the orientation of device 1 can be selectively adjusted, or the device can be configured to automatically orient itself to the swell direction. In some embodiments, the device can be anchored to the seabed by mooring lines to allow the device to rotate about the anchor point, and the device may include rudders, fin-like elements, or other features configured to be parallel to the flow direction, thereby allowing the device to self-orient.

[0126] In some embodiments, such as in response to tides, the structure can rise and fall relative to the seabed. This can be achieved by making the height of the structure relative to the seabed adjustable, or by having neutral buoyancy.

[0127] The device is installed such that the upper end 11b of the guiding surfaces 5 and 7 is positioned above the water surface. Preferably, the upper ends 11b remain above the water surface throughout each wave cycle, that is, their position is above the maximum expected wave crest. Preferably, the lower ends 11a remain submerged in water throughout each wave cycle, that is, their position is below the lowest expected wave trough.

[0128] The height and / or inclination of device 1 can be fixed, for example, in a location where swells are stable and consistent. Alternatively, the height and / or inclination of guide surfaces 5, 7 can be adjustable. For example, the device can be anchored to the seabed by one or more adjustable mooring lines of adjustable length.

[0129] In some embodiments, during storm conditions, device 1 can be selectively and temporarily lowered below the water surface to minimize the risk of damage to the device. This can be achieved, for example, by shortening an adjustable tether. Alternatively, device 1 may include one or more actuators that can be selectively operated to temporarily raise device 1 above the water surface during storm conditions to minimize the risk of damage to the device.

[0130] Preferably, most of the upper and lower guide surfaces are located above the trough height and below the crest height. The length of the portion of guide surfaces 5 and 7 that is above the trough height and below the crest height is the effective length of the guide surface, along which the energy generation chamber will roll and generate rotational kinetic energy.

[0131] Now we will refer to the specific details. Figures 2 to 4 Describe the operation of device 1.

[0132] In the neutral position of device 1, energy generating chamber 3 is located at the water surface, with a portion of chamber 3 above the water surface and a portion below the water surface. In this idle position, the ratio of the chamber above and below the water surface is at least partially determined by the buoyancy of chamber 3.

[0133] As the approaching wave nears, it submerges the energy-generating chamber 3, and chamber 3 is at least temporarily partially or completely submerged below the wave surface. The underwater chamber 3 is then subjected to a vertically upward buoyancy force. This buoyancy force pushes the chamber's drive shaft 9 into contact with the upper guide surface 5. The upper guide surface 5 restricts the upward movement of the chamber, preventing it from floating directly upwards, but instead guides the chamber 3 forward along the direction of the wave's movement S, gradually upwards.

[0134] The friction between the drive shaft 9 and the upper guide surface 5 prevents the drive shaft 9 from sliding along the guide surface, and instead generates a combined torque on the energy generation chamber 3, which causes the energy generation chamber 3 to rotate at high speed in the rotation direction r around the chamber rotation axis RA.

[0135] As the waves move across the equipment, the water level at energy generation chamber 3 continues to rise during the wave cycle, from the trough to the crest, causing chamber 3 to rise along with the water level. As chamber 3 is pushed forward and upward toward the upper end 11b of the equipment, it rolls about its axis of rotation RA along the upper guide surface 5. This occurs even when the generation chamber is no longer fully submerged.

[0136] The length of time or proportion during which the energy-generating chamber 3 remains submerged in each wave cycle will depend on the chamber's buoyancy, its moment of inertia, the diameter of the drive shaft 9, the inclination of the guide surface, the characteristics of kinetic energy utilization within the chamber, and the characteristics of the waves passing through. When rotational energy is used for power generation (as further described below), the speed of chamber movement may be affected and / or manipulated by the pulled current, while when kinetic energy is used for desalination / water desalination (as further described below), the speed of chamber movement may be affected and / or manipulated by the volumetric output of the pump.

[0137] In one embodiment, a flow smoothing / control device may be present to ensure a generally smooth flow of water and to manipulate the rotational speed of the generating chamber to ensure it is in phase with the primary wave, or, depending on ambient conditions, out of phase with the primary wave. This flow smoothing device may include an accumulator and may include valves to selectively change the orifice size, thereby altering the flow rate of fluid exiting the accumulator.

[0138] By altering the pump's pulling current and output power, or by manipulating the generator's speed using flow smoothing devices, it's helpful to ensure the generator is in phase with the main wave, or to actively make it out of phase with the main wave. The advantage of out-of-phase motion is that it allows the approaching wave sufficient time to more fully submerge the generator, thereby increasing the buoyancy available to the generator during its upward stroke.

[0139] The drive shaft 9 moves toward the upper end 11b of the guide surface, but preferably does not reach the upper end before the wave crest passes. If the drive shaft 9 does reach the upper end 11b (e.g., in very large waves), the end 11b acts as a stop to prevent further movement of the cabin.

[0140] As the wave crest moves past the energy-generating chamber, chamber 3 is at least temporarily completely above the water surface. At this time, the gravity acting on chamber 3 causes it to fall, bringing drive shaft 9 into contact with the lower guide surface 7.

[0141] The lower guide surface 7 restricts the downward movement of the cabin 7, preventing it from falling directly downwards, and instead guides the cabin back against the wave direction S.

[0142] The friction between the drive shaft 9 and the lower guide surface 7 prevents the drive shaft 9 from sliding along the guide surface 7, instead generating a resultant torque on the energy-generating chamber 3, causing the chamber 3 to rotate at high speed about the chamber rotation axis RA in the rotation direction r. The rotation direction r is the same as the direction of rotation of the chamber 3 as it moves upward, making the rotation direction of the chamber unidirectional throughout the cycle. This can advantageously reduce energy losses that might occur in systems where the rotation of the energy-generating chamber 3 varies between the upward and downward strokes, thus providing a more efficient arrangement. Preferably, the distance w between the two interface guide surfaces is small, making the transition between the upward and downward strokes almost instantaneous.

[0143] As the water level at energy generation chamber 3 continues to drop as the wave crest moves away from the equipment, energy generation chamber 3 lowers along with the water level, causing it to roll downwards along guide surface 7 towards the lower end 11a of the equipment under the influence of gravity. This rolling occurs even when the generation chamber is no longer completely above the water surface.

[0144] The length of time or proportion during which the energy-generating chamber 3 is completely outside the water in each cycle will depend on the buoyancy of chamber 3, its inertia, and the characteristics of the waves passing through it, as described above regarding the length of time during which the energy-generating chamber 3 is fully or partially submerged.

[0145] The drive shaft 9 moves toward the lower end 11a of the guide surface, but preferably does not reach the lower end before passing the trough. If the drive shaft 9 does reach the lower end 11a, the end 11a acts as a stop to prevent further movement of the energy-generating chamber 3. In several other embodiments, the inclined guide surface has an increased inclination at its lowest end, approaching vertical, so that any unexpected low trough will not exert undue pressure on the entire system, thus acting as a pressure safety valve.

[0146] This process repeats itself with each passing wave.

[0147] For a given wave amplitude, a lower guide surface tilt angle α requires a longer guide surface 5, 7, which in turn means that the energy generation chamber must complete a greater number of rotational speeds to move along the guide surface with each passing wave, which is generally conducive to generating rotational kinetic energy.

[0148] Figure 11 An alternative embodiment of device 201 is shown. In this embodiment, unless otherwise stated, it is similar to... Figures 1 to 6 Compared to the embodiments, the same reference numerals are used to describe the same features, but 200 is added.

[0149] Power generation

[0150] In some embodiments of device 1, the rotational kinetic energy of the energy generation chamber 3 can be used to generate electricity. Figure 6 An exemplary embodiment is shown, wherein the energy generation chamber includes a device 3 for generating electrical energy.

[0151] The housing 10 of device 3 houses at least one generator 21 with a drive shaft 27. In the illustrated embodiment, the compartment 3 includes two generators 21 located near opposite ends of the housing 10.

[0152] Generator 21 may include any suitable generator or alternator. In an example embodiment, the generator is a permanent magnet coreless axial flux generator.

[0153] Each generator 21 is arranged to rotate about the module's rotation axis relative to the hull 10. The generator 21 can rotate freely and independently of the rotation of the energy-generating module 3.

[0154] In the illustrated embodiment, a support member 23 is provided within the housing 10, which is arranged coaxially with the rotation axis RA. The support member 23 is connected to the housing 10 via a bearing 33, which allows the support member 23 to rotate independently about the rotation axis RA relative to the housing 10 of the generating chamber. In this exemplary embodiment, the support member 23 comprises two circular end members and three rods extending between the circular end members; however, in many alternative embodiments, the support member may have many other forms. For example, the support member 23 may be composed of a cylindrical member coaxial with the rotation axis.

[0155] Each generator 21 is connected to the support 23 via a hanger 25 fixed to the support 23, such that the generator 21 is suspended from the support 23 under gravity. The weight of the generator 21 and the hanger 25, as well as the free rotational nature of the support 23, means that as the chamber rotates and moves along the guide surfaces 5, 7, the generator 21 remains substantially within the lower portion of the energy generation chamber in each rotation of the hull 10. In embodiments including ballast, the ballast can further help to force the generator 21 to remain substantially within the lower portion of the energy generation chamber in each rotation of the hull 10.

[0156] Each generator 21 includes a drive shaft 27 that drives the generator. The drive shaft 27 is parallel to and offset from the axis of rotation RA of the compartment 3. Each drive shaft 27 is connected to the compartment housing 10 such that the relative rotation of the housing 10 with respect to the generator drives the rotation of the drive shaft 27.

[0157] In the illustrated embodiment, a pinion 29 is disposed on or connected to each drive shaft 27 and configured to mesh with a complementary ring gear 31, the ring gear 31 being disposed inside the cabin housing adjacent to the corresponding end of the cabin housing. The ring gear 31 is fixed to the housing 10 and rotates synchronously / together with the housing.

[0158] In several other embodiments, the drive shaft 27 of each generator 21 may be otherwise coupled to the housing 10. For example, in some embodiments, a belt drive may be provided between the housing drive shaft 15 and the generator 21, wherein a larger gear is provided on an internal protrusion of the housing drive shaft 15 and a smaller gear is provided on each generator drive shaft 27.

[0159] During operation, as the energy generation chamber 3 rotates, the ring gear 31 also rotates, while the drive shaft 27 is held at least partially in a generally fixed track position due to the generator being suspended under its own weight. This relative motion between the ring gear 31 and the drive shaft 27 causes the pinion 29 to rotate, which in turn drives the generator 21 to generate electricity.

[0160] In some embodiments, the pinion 29 may be connected to the drive shaft 27 via a clutch (not shown) to prevent the rotation of the drive shaft from being suppressed by the decelerated rotation of the energy chamber 3. The clutch may be any suitable clutch that engages / disengages when the rotational speed of the drive body is less than that of the driven body. Examples include a wedge clutch or a flywheel.

[0161] In some embodiments, a flywheel 37 may be provided to smoothly generate electricity throughout the wave cycle. When the energy generation chamber rotates at its fastest speed, the flywheel 37 can help store rotational kinetic energy for use by the generator 21 when the rotational speed of the chamber 3 decreases (e.g., when the energy generation chamber switches between the upper guide rail 5 and the lower guide rail 7).

[0162] The flywheel 37 is operably coupled to each generator drive shaft 27. In some embodiments, the flywheel 37 may be mounted on the drive shaft. In the illustrated embodiment, a single flywheel 37 is rotatably mounted about a central support 23 via bearings, allowing the flywheel to rotate freely about the support 23 independently of its rotation, and the flywheel's rotational speed may be higher than that of the drive shaft 27. The flywheel is coupled to each generator drive shaft 27 via a corresponding belt drive mechanism 39 or gear drive mechanism.

[0163] In some embodiments that require ballast, the ballast may be included as a flywheel.

[0164] The current generated by device 3 must be transmitted outside the housing to be utilized. In the illustrated embodiment, an output cable 15 is provided for transmitting the current generated by the generator outside the housing 10. Internally, the cable passes through a central opening 38 in the support member 23 along the cabin rotation axis RA. The cable also exits the housing 10 along the cabin rotation axis, allowing the energy generation cabin to rotate relative to the cable 15.

[0165] The point where the cable 15 exits the housing 10 is sealed to prevent water from entering the housing 10. For example, a slip ring 35 can be embedded in the corresponding drive shaft 9 to seal the outlet point while still allowing rotation.

[0166] Cable 15 extends from the power generation unit and is long enough that it does not restrict the operation of device 1. Output cable 15 can be connected to a trunk cable to deliver power to shore, or it can be directly connected to a power storage device. In some embodiments, tightly coiled cables can be used to allow necessary slack. Furthermore, in some embodiments, output cables may be present on both sides of the generation compartment to balance the resistive effects generated by the cables (one of them may not function, but it provides redundant capacity as a backup).

[0167] Water treatment and desalination equipment

[0168] In some embodiments of device 1, the energy generation chamber 3 may include water treatment equipment, such as a water filter or desalination device 103, which utilizes the rotational kinetic energy of the chamber to operate the pump and filter.

[0169] Water treatment equipment 103 can be combined with Figures 1 to 4 The device shown is driven in the same manner as the above-described embodiment of the energy generation chamber, or it may be driven in the same manner using alternative devices or methods.

[0170] Figures 7 to 9 A desalination apparatus 103 of an exemplary embodiment is shown for desalinating brine for operation in a brine marine environment, and is described herein. Figure 10 An alternative embodiment, device 212, is shown. Figure 10 In the embodiments, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals are used to describe... Figures 7 to 9 The same features exist in the embodiments, but with an increase of 100. It is foreseeable that other embodiments may include features from... Figures 7 to 9 Some features of the embodiments and from Figure 10 Some features of the embodiments.

[0171] Instead of a pre-formed wastewater outlet, the device 212 includes an internal energy recovery unit (not shown). Therefore, the waste brine leaves the device at a lower pressure.

[0172] The desalination apparatus 103 includes a housing 110, within which a pump 121 and a reverse osmosis desalination filter 122 are disposed. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes a single desalination filter 122; in several other embodiments, multiple desalination filters 222 may be provided.

[0173] The housing 110 is configured to rotate about the axis of rotation RA' and relative to the pump 121 and the filter 122. This relative rotation is used to operate the pump 121, which will be described in more detail below. The filter 122 is in fluid communication with the pump 121, so that the pump 121 can drive or draw fluid through the filter 122.

[0174] Housing 110 defines an internal reservoir 114 in fluid communication with inlet 124 of pump 121. Reservoir 114 is configured to receive and store seawater for desalination. In the illustrated embodiment, housing 110 includes a plurality of inlets 116 to allow brine to enter the reservoir.

[0175] In this exemplary embodiment, the housing 110 is generally cylindrical / cylindrical in shape with two end walls 111a, 111b. The inlet includes a plurality of holes 116 in the two end walls 111a, 111b of the housing 110. A permeable filter or fine screen is provided on each hole 116 to allow seawater to enter the housing 110 through the holes 116 while preventing debris or marine organisms from unintentionally entering the reservoir 114.

[0176] The orifice 116 may be one-way permeable, allowing water to flow in but not out of the housing 110. The orifice 116 may also be airtight, preventing air from entering the housing when the orifice 116 is above the water surface. For example, each orifice 116 may include a one-way valve, such as an umbrella-shaped, mushroom-shaped, or diaphragm valve, other suitable valves, or combinations thereof. The housing may additionally or alternatively include holes or projecting flanges in the cylindrical wall of the housing 110 to further facilitate water entry into the reservoir 114.

[0177] In the illustrated embodiment, one or more closable holes 118 are provided in the cylindrical wall of the housing 110. These holes 118 are selectively openable and can facilitate filling the reservoir 114 with seawater via these holes during installation. The holes 118 can then be sealed with plugs or other caps during operation.

[0178] Additionally or alternatively, the closable hole 118 can be used as a maintenance hatch to facilitate the repair of internal components.

[0179] The reservoir 114 can be configured to have a capacity that ensures the device operates at the desired quality when the reservoir is full or nearly full. That is, in some embodiments, the reservoir can function as ballast.

[0180] An inner housing 112 is disposed within a housing 110, includes a pump and a filter, and is fixed relative to the pump 121 and the desalination filter 122. The inner housing 112 is rotatably mounted within the housing 110, such that there is relative rotation between the housing and the inner housing.

[0181] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner housing comprises a cylinder concentric with the cylinder of the housing 110. However, in alternative embodiments, the housing may have other shapes.

[0182] The inner casing 112 is sealed to prevent water from the reservoir 114 from seeping into the casing, thereby preventing the exterior of the pump 121, filter 122 and drive coupling 139 (described below) from being exposed to seawater, and providing buoyancy support to the tank when it is submerged.

[0183] The inner housing 112 is rotatable about the axis of rotation RA'. In the illustrated embodiment, the device 103 includes a central support 123 along the axis of rotation RA'. The inner housing 112 is rotatably mounted to the central support, allowing it to rotate substantially freely about the central support 123 independently of the housing 110.

[0184] In the illustrated embodiment, the central support 123 includes a shaft coaxial with the two drive shafts 113. The shaft 123 extends longitudinally between the two drive shafts 113 within the device 103 and the inner housing 112. However, other forms of central supports are contemplated. For example, the central support 123 is shown as a single body extending between the two ends of the housing; alternatively, the central support may include a first support portion at a first end of the housing 110 and a second support portion at a second end of the housing. In several other embodiments, the central support 123 may include a plurality of parallel tubes or struts parallel to but offset from the axis of rotation RA'.

[0185] In the illustrated embodiment, the central support 123 is fixed relative to the housing 110 such that it rotates together with the housing. For example, the central support 123 may be fixed to the housing 110 or integrally formed with the housing 110.

[0186] In several alternative embodiments, the center support 123 may be rotatably mounted relative to the housing 110, for example by a drive coupling such as a belt drive and a variable transmission system, such that rotation of the housing 110 at a first rotational speed causes the center support 123 to rotate at a different second rotational speed.

[0187] In the illustrated embodiment, the central support 123 extends through a hole in the end wall 128 of the inner housing 112. The inner housing 112 is mounted to the central support 123 at the end hole via a sealed waterproof bearing 130 to allow rotation between the inner housing 112 and the central support 123 while preventing water from seeping into the inner housing 112.

[0188] The pump 121 is arranged such that it can rotate freely about the axis of rotation RA'. The pump 121 can rotate freely substantially independently of the rotation of the housing 110 and the central support 123. The pump 121 can be arranged to be suspended below the axis of rotation RA' under the force of gravity acting on the pump mass.

[0189] The filter 122 is also installed in a way that allows it to rotate freely around the rotation axis RA'. The filter 122 can rotate freely, and its rotation state is basically independent of the rotation of the housing 110. Under the action of gravity due to its own mass, the filter 122 can be arranged in a suspended position below the rotation axis RA'.

[0190] Pump 121 and filter 122 can be connected such that they move together and there is no relative rotation between pump 121 and filter 122, as in the exemplary embodiment. Pump 121 and filter 122 can also be fixed relative to inner housing 112 such that they rotate together with inner housing 112 about axis of rotation RA'. Alternatively, filter 122 can be coaxial with axis of rotation RA'. It can rotate together with inner housing, or it can be fixed relative to central support 123 and housing 110.

[0191] In the illustrated embodiment, pump 121 is arranged upstream of filter 122. In this embodiment, pump 121 includes an inlet 124 arranged to draw in brine and an outlet 126 for delivering brine to filter 122.

[0192] Pump inlet 124 is in fluid communication with reservoir 114. The pump is operable to draw brine from the reservoir and deliver it to desalination filter 122. In the illustrated embodiment, pump inlet 124 includes a short section of pipe leading to an orifice in the housing. Pump 121 is in fluid communication with reservoir 114 through an orifice in the housing wall. Inlet pipe 124 may be integrally formed with or fixed to housing 112. The connection between pump inlet 124 and inner housing 112 can fix the relative position of pump 121 and inner housing.

[0193] In several alternative embodiments, pump 121 may be arranged downstream of filter 122 and operable to draw fluid through the filter. In such an embodiment, the filter inlet will be in fluid communication with reservoir 114.

[0194] Pump 121 is operatively connected to housing 110 via drive coupling 139, such that rotation of housing 110 drives operation of pump 121. The pump includes a drive shaft parallel to and offset from the axis of rotation RA'. In the illustrated embodiment, drive coupling 139 acts between central support 123 and pump drive shaft.

[0195] Drive connector 139 may include any suitable transmission or gear mechanism, such as a belt drive. Figure 8 ) or other gear components (e.g. Figure 10(Sun gear and pinion assembly 239). The drive coupling 139 is preferably a booster mechanism that produces an output speed that is increased compared to the input speed. In this exemplary embodiment, the rotation of the central support is the input to the drive coupling, and the input speed (revolutions per minute) of the central support is less than the output speed (revolutions per minute) of the drive coupling, and thus less than the output speed of the pump drive shaft.

[0196] The drive coupling 139 may include a clutch to prevent the rotation of the pump drive shaft from being suppressed by the decelerated rotation of the housing 110. The clutch may be any suitable clutch that disengages when the rotational speed of the pump drive shaft exceeds the rotational speed at the output of the drive coupling 139. For example, the clutch may include a strut clutch or a flywheel.

[0197] During operation, as the housing 110 rotates about the axis of rotation RA', the inner casing 112 generally maintains its absolute rotational orientation because it is not coupled to the housing 110 to rotate together. The combined weight of the inner casing 112, pump 121, filter 122, any ballast, and other internal components attached thereto means that these components remain in a substantially fixed absolute orbital position relative to the axis of rotation RA' throughout the rotation of the housing 110. In reality, the inner casing 112 may experience some slight rotational movement due to inertial forces, particularly near the top and bottom of each wave cycle stroke.

[0198] When the housing 110 rotates, the input gear of the drive coupling 139 also rotates together with the central support member 123. The drive shaft of the pump 121 remains in a substantially fixed absolute track position. The drive coupling includes an output portion, such as an output gear, coaxial with the pump drive shaft, and this relative movement between the input gear of the drive coupling 139 and the pump drive shaft causes the drive coupling output portion to rotate the pump drive shaft to operate the pump.

[0199] Pump 121 can be any suitable pump used to drive or pump water through the selected desalination filter 122. Preferably, the pump is a high-pressure pump. In one example, the pump may have a rated pressure of 60 psi to 1000 psi. In one embodiment, the pump is a 60 psi pressure pump. In an alternative embodiment, the pump is an 800 psi pump. However, in several other embodiments, pumps with higher or lower rated pressures may be used.

[0200] During operation, pump 121 draws brine from reservoir 114 in housing 110 through pump inlet 124. It then pumps the brine through pump outlet 126 at the required pressure and through reverse osmosis desalination filter 122.

[0201] Filter 122 is a reverse osmosis desalination filter.

[0202] The filter has an inlet 132 configured to receive brine. The filter 122 is in fluid communication with the pump 121 and the reservoir 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter inlet is connected directly or via a conduit to the pump outlet 126, such that the filter inlet 132 is in fluid communication with the reservoir 114 via the pump 121.

[0203] The filter includes a main outlet 134 for supplying desalinated "fresh" water. The main outlet 134 is fluidly coupled to a lumen (not shown), such as a hose, conduit, or channel, to deliver the desalinated water out of the device. Typically, the lumen supplying the fresh water extends at least partially along the axis of rotation RA'. In the illustrated embodiment, the central support shaft 123 is hollow, and the lumen for delivering the desalinated water is disposed within the central support shaft 123 and extends linearly along the central support 123. In several other embodiments, a fluid slip ring may be provided around the lumen to seal the outlet point while still allowing rotation.

[0204] The tubing supplies fresh water to the device outlet point located at the end of one of the drive shafts 113 on the rotation axis RA'. A rotating swivel hose link can be provided at the outlet point to facilitate connection to the output conduit in a manner that does not impede the rotation of the device 103.

[0205] The output conduit has a form and construction that provides slack to allow the device to rise and fall (e.g., when it rolls along guide surface 7) without the risk of the output conduit becoming entangled with device 103. In some embodiments, the output conduit may include a coiled conduit. The output conduit may be weighted to ensure that the conduit extends downward from the device. The output conduit may extend downward and / or outward from device 103.

[0206] Ideally, the output conduit and the rotating connector exert minimal force on the device so as not to interfere with its rotation, movement, and operation. However, in some embodiments where negligible forces cannot be achieved, a balancing or “copycat” system can be provided on the opposing drive shafts 113 to counteract this effect.

[0207] The outlet conduit can be further attached to the pipeline to deliver fresh water to a delivery point, such as a shore location or a ship.

[0208] In the production of desalinated freshwater, the equipment also generates a large amount of waste brine. Filter 122 includes one or more auxiliary outlets 136 for conveying the waste brine from the equipment.

[0209] The volume of the generated waste brine will typically be larger than the volume of the fresh water, and the dimensions of outlets 134, 136, 136a, and 136b should be determined accordingly. In one embodiment, the water leaving filter 122 is approximately 1 part fresh water to 5 parts brine. However, this ratio may vary depending on the filter characteristics.

[0210] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter outlet 136 branches into two branches 136a and 136b to deliver brine to opposite ends of the device 103. Each branch 136a and 136b is fluidly connected to the outlet at the corresponding end of the device.

[0211] In the illustrated embodiment, each branch 136a, 136b includes a conduit fluidly connected to a lumen (not shown), such as a hose, conduit, or channel, to deliver demineralized water from the central support to the outside of the device. Typically, the lumen for the brine extends at least partially along the axis of rotation RA'.

[0212] The shell ends 111a and 111b may include internal channels for receiving brine. These channels are in fluid communication with outlet branches 136a and 136b and the connected lumen. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the embodiments described, each of the housing ends 111a and 111b includes a hollow outer shell defining an inner circular channel, an outer circular channel, and a plurality of curved radial channels extending therebetween to allow brine to flow from the inner channel to the outer channel. However, it should be understood that other channel arrangements are also possible. For example, the channels may be bends attached to the housing 110 rather than being integrally formed.

[0213] Multiple tangential waste liquid outlets 140 extend from the periphery of each housing end 111a, 111b for dispersing waste brine outside the equipment. These outlets 140 are in fluid communication with radial channels disposed within the respective housing ends, thereby being in fluid communication with the filter brine outlet 136.

[0214] Waste outlet 140 can extend or point in a tangential direction opposite to the direction of rotation of the hull to aid energy capture. This means that the waste fluid flowing through the curved channel and exiting outlet 140 induces a torque in the direction of rotation on device 103, thereby facilitating the rotation of the device rather than hindering it, and advantageously avoiding the need for additional energy to pump desalinated water ashore and dispersing the energy of discharging brine to prevent endangering marine life due to a strong discharge flow.

[0215] In the illustrated embodiment, the tangential outlets 140 are rigid hollow cylindrical members, but they may have other forms. For example, outlets 140 may include flexible members or nozzles, or may simply include holes in the walls of the housing ends. The device may include any suitable number of outlets, depending on the size of the device and the volume of waste fluid produced. The device is exemplified as having eight outlets at each housing end, but other embodiments may have more or fewer outlets. In some embodiments, only a single outlet may be provided at one or both ends.

[0216] In an alternative embodiment, the device may include an energy recovery unit within an internal housing to receive and extract energy from a waste brine stream from the pump. The waste brine may be directed to the energy recovery unit within the internal housing. Examples of mechanisms that can be used as energy recovery units include Clark pumps, Pelton turbines, turbochargers, pressure exchangers or working exchangers, pressure boosters, isobaric pressure exchangers, pressure amplifiers, or water-hydraulic pump motors, or other suitable types of energy recovery units that will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0217] In embodiments with an internal energy recovery unit, secondary waste brine from the energy recovery unit can be directed out of the housing's waste liquid outlet. The waste liquid outlet can have an alternative form to the aforementioned tangential outlet, since the waste liquid from the energy recovery unit will be under a lower pressure.

[0218] The inner surface of the housing 110 may include fins 142 or other features protruding into the reservoir to generate drag on water, thereby minimizing rotation of the fluid contained within the housing relative to the housing 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the fins include eight flat, elongated members extending between the housing ends 111a, 111b. However, in several other embodiments, the fins may have other forms, or there may be more or fewer fins.

[0219] The reservoir and finned member 142, together with the water contained in the reservoir, additionally act as a flywheel, providing rotational inertia to maintain rotational momentum, thereby smoothing the operating speed of the pump 121.

[0220] As described above in the general description of the energy generation chamber 3, the desalination device 103 is a floating body. The volume and weight of the desalination device 103 are selected such that the weight of the device is about 10% to about 80% of the weight of the equivalent drainage volume of brine. In some embodiments, the volume and weight of the device 103 are selected such that the weight is about 40% to about 60% of the weight of the equivalent drainage volume of brine. In this example, the weight of the device is about 50% of the weight of the equivalent drainage volume of brine.

[0221] Preferred embodiments of the invention have been described by way of example only, and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A wave energy device for generating rotational mechanical energy, the device comprising a floating energy generating capsule and an inclined upper guide surface and an inclined lower guide surface arranged to constrain and guide the motion of the energy generating capsule, the device configured to be partially submerged in a body of water; wherein the energy generating capsule is configured to roll in a unidirectional manner about a capsule rotation axis along the guide surfaces as it rises in response to forces from waves in the body of water and falls in response to gravity.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The upper and lower guide surfaces are spaced apart and face each other.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The upper and lower guide surfaces are substantially parallel.

4. The device of any one of the preceding claims, comprising two pairs of upper and lower guide surfaces, wherein the generating capsule comprises two coaxial drive shafts, each arranged to roll along one of the pairs of upper and lower guide surfaces, thereby causing the generating capsule to rotate about the capsule rotation axis.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein, Each drive shaft comprises an engagement portion for alternately engaging a respective upper and lower guide surface, the engagement portion comprising a grip enhancing feature for reducing slippage between the drive shaft and the respective guide surface.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein, The grip enhancing feature comprises a resilient surface.

7. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The upper and lower guide surfaces comprise a grip enhancing surface.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein, The grip enhancing surface comprises a knurled surface.

9. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The angle of inclination of the inclined upper and lower guide surfaces is adjustable.

10. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The motion of the energy generating capsule is guided by the upper guide surfaces as the energy generating capsule rises and by the lower guide surfaces as the energy generating capsule falls.

11. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The device is anchored or moored to the seabed or ground, or to a natural feature provided on a fixed or moveable structure or vehicle.

12. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The device is partially submerged in the body of water at a height such that a substantial portion of the upper and lower guide surfaces are above the trough height and a substantial portion of the upper and lower guide surfaces are below the crest height.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein, The height and / or inclination of the guide surfaces is adjustable.

14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein, The height and / or inclination of the guide surfaces is fixed.

15. The apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein, The volume and weight of the energy generating capsule are selected such that its weight is between about 10% and about 80% of the weight of water of an equivalent displaced volume.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, The volume and weight of the energy generating capsule are selected such that its weight is between about 40% and about 60% of the weight of water of an equivalent displaced volume.

17. The device of any one of the preceding claims, comprising ballast.

18. A wave energy device for generating electrical energy, comprising a device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, The energy generating capsule comprises a housing and a generator having a drive shaft rod; wherein the generator is rotatable relative to the housing about a capsule rotation axis; wherein relative rotation of the generator drives rotation of the drive shaft rod to generate electrical energy.

19. The device of claim 18, comprising a pinion gear operably coupled to the drive shaft rod and a complementary ring gear, the ring gear disposed inside the housing and arranged to rotate with the housing, wherein rotation of the housing causes rotation of the pinion gear.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, The pinion gear is coupled to the drive shaft rod via a clutch.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein, The clutch is a dog clutch.

22. The apparatus of any one of claims 18-21, wherein, The generator is arranged to be suspended from a support arranged to be rotatable relative to the housing about a pod rotation axis, such that a main portion of the generator is held in a lower portion of the energy generating pod when the energy generating pod is rotated.

23. The apparatus of any one of claims 18-22, wherein, The generator is an alternator.

24. The apparatus of any one of claims 18-23, wherein, The drive shaft rod is parallel to and offset from the pod rotation axis.

25. The apparatus of any one of claims 18-24, wherein, The drive shaft rod is coupled to a flywheel.

26. The apparatus of any one of claims 18 to 25, comprising a cable for transmitting electrical energy generated by the generator out of the energy generating pod.

27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein, The cable exits the housing along the pod rotation axis.

28. A desalination plant comprising an energy generating plant according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein, An energy generating pod comprises: a housing; a pump arranged within the housing; and a reverse osmosis filter fluidly connected to the pump and having an inlet to receive brine and an outlet to provide desalinated water; wherein the pump and the filter are rotatable relative to the housing about a pod rotation axis; wherein relative rotation between the housing and the pump and the filter drives the pump to draw or drive brine through the reverse osmosis filter.

29. The desalination apparatus of claim 28, wherein, The housing comprises or defines a reservoir for brine, the pump being fluidly coupled to the reservoir.

30. The desalination apparatus of claim 29, wherein, The housing comprises a plurality of inlets to allow brine to enter the reservoir.

31. The desalination apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 30, wherein, The apparatus comprises an inner casing within the housing, the inner casing containing the pump and the filter and being fixed relative to the pump and the filter, wherein the housing is rotatable relative to the inner casing.

32. The desalination apparatus of claim 31, wherein, The inner casing is watertight.

33. The desalination apparatus of claim 31 or 32, wherein, The pump comprises an inlet arranged to draw brine through an aperture in the inner casing.

34. The desalination apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 33, wherein, At least a major portion of the pump and the filter are suspended below the rotation axis under the force of gravity.

35. The desalination apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 34, wherein, The pump comprises a drive shaft rod and is provided with a drive coupling to operably couple the housing to the drive shaft rod of the pump; wherein rotation of the housing thereby causes rotation of the drive shaft rod.

36. The desalination apparatus of claim 345, wherein, The drive coupling is coupled to the drive shaft rod via a clutch.

37. The desalination apparatus of any one of claims 34 to 36, comprising a central support along the rotation axis, the central support being fixed to rotate with the housing, wherein the drive coupling couples the pump to the central support.

38. The desalination apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 37, wherein, An outlet of the filter is fluidly coupled to a hose or other conduit along the rotation axis out of the apparatus to deliver desalinated water out of the apparatus.

39. The desalination apparatus of any one of claims 28 to 38, wherein, The reverse osmosis filter comprises one or more auxiliary outlets for delivering waste brine from the apparatus.

40. The desalination apparatus of claim 39, wherein, The housing comprises a plurality of curved waste outlets in fluid communication with the one or more auxiliary outlets of the reverse osmosis filter for discharging waste brine out of the apparatus, the plurality of curved waste outlets being sized and arranged such that fluid exiting the tangential outlets induces a torque on the energy generating pod in the direction of rotation.

41. The desalination apparatus of claim 39, wherein, The housing comprises a plurality of tangential waste outlets in fluid communication with the one or more auxiliary outlets of the reverse osmosis filter for discharging waste brine out of the apparatus.

42. The desalination apparatus of claim 41, wherein, The tangential outlet is oriented in a direction opposite to the unidirectional rotational direction of the generating chamber, such that fluid exiting the tangential outlet generates a torque on the generating chamber.

43. An apparatus for generating electrical energy, comprising: a housing configured to rotate about an axis of rotation; and a generator arranged within the housing; wherein the housing is rotatable relative to the generator; and wherein the housing and the generator are coupled via a drive coupling, such that rotation of the housing relative to the generator drives the generator, thereby generating electrical energy.

44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein, The generator is arranged to allow orbital motion of the generator about the axis of rotation.

45. The apparatus of claim 43 or 44, wherein, A substantial portion of the generator is arranged to hang below the axis of rotation under the influence of gravity.

46. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein, The generator is arranged to hang below the axis of rotation under the influence of gravity throughout rotation of the housing.

47. The apparatus of any one of claims 43-46, wherein, The generator is arranged to hang from a support, and the support is arranged to be rotatable about the axis of rotation relative to the housing.

48. The apparatus of any one of claims 43-47, wherein, The generator comprises a drive shaft, the drive coupling comprises a pinion gear operably coupled to the drive shaft, wherein the interior of the housing is provided with a complementary ring gear, the ring gear being arranged to rotate with the housing; wherein rotation of the housing thereby causes rotation of the pinion gear.

49. The apparatus of claim 48, wherein, The pinion gear is coupled to the drive shaft via a clutch.

50. The apparatus of claim 49, wherein, The clutch is a ratcheting clutch.

51. The apparatus of any one of claims 48-50, wherein, The drive shaft is parallel to and offset from the axis of rotation.

52. The apparatus of any one of claims 43-50, wherein, The generator is an alternator.

53. The apparatus of any one of claims 43 to 52, further comprising a flywheel for effecting smooth power generation.

54. The apparatus of any one of claims 43 to 53, comprising a cable for transmitting electrical energy generated by the generator out of the housing.

55. The apparatus of claim 54, wherein, The cable exits the housing along the axis of rotation.

56. The apparatus of any one of claims 43-55, wherein, The housing comprises two coaxial drive shafts along the axis of rotation, and the drive shafts are configured to roll along a guide surface to cause rotation of the housing.

57. The apparatus of any one of claims 43-56, wherein, Each drive shaft comprises an engagement portion having a grip-enhancing feature for engaging the guide surface and reducing slippage between the drive shaft and the guide surface.

58. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein, The grip-enhancing feature comprises a resilient surface.

59. The apparatus of any one of claims 43-58, wherein, The apparatus is for use in a body of water, and the housing is sealed to prevent ingress of water.

60. The apparatus of claim 59, wherein, The volume and weight of the apparatus are selected such that its weight is about 10% to about 80% of the weight of water from an equivalent displaced volume of water from the body of water.

61. The apparatus of claim 60, wherein, The volume and weight of the energy-generating chamber are selected such that its weight is about 40% to about 60% of the weight of water from an equivalent displaced volume of water from the body of water.

62. The apparatus of any one of claims 43 to 61, comprising ballast.

63. A desalination apparatus, comprising: a housing configured to rotate about an axis of rotation; a pump arranged within the housing; and a reverse osmosis filter fluidically connected to the pump, the reverse osmosis filter having an inlet for receiving saltwater and an outlet for providing desalinated water; wherein the housing is rotatable relative to the pump and the filter; and wherein the housing and the pump are coupled via a drive coupling such that rotation of the housing relative to the pump drives the pump to draw or drive brine through the filter.

64. The desalination apparatus of claim 63, wherein, The housing includes or defines a reservoir for brine, and the pump is fluidly coupled to the reservoir.

65. The desalination device of claim 64, wherein, The housing includes a plurality of inlets to allow brine to enter the reservoir.

66. The desalination device of claim 655, wherein, The inlets include filters or grates to prevent debris and / or air from entering the reservoir.

67. The desalination device of any one of claims 64-66, wherein, The apparatus includes an inner housing within the housing, the inner housing containing the pump and the filter and being fixed relative to the pump and the filter, wherein the housing is rotatable relative to the inner housing.

68. The desalination device of claim 67, wherein, The inner housing is sealed to prevent water from entering the housing.

69. The desalination device of claim 67 or 68, wherein, The pump includes an inlet arranged to draw brine through an aperture in the housing.

70. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-69, wherein, The pump and filter are arranged to allow the pump and the filter to orbit relative to the housing about the axis of rotation.

71. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-70, wherein, The pump is arranged to hang below the axis of rotation under the force of gravity.

72. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-71, wherein, The filter is arranged to hang below the axis of rotation under the force of gravity.

73. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-72, wherein, The pump is arranged to hang below the axis of rotation under the force of gravity throughout rotation of the housing.

74. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-73, wherein, The pump includes a drive shaft, and the drive coupling includes a belt drive or other gear assembly operably coupled to the drive shaft of the pump and the housing; wherein rotation of the housing thereby causes rotation of the drive shaft.

75. The desalination device of claim 74, wherein, The drive coupling is coupled to the drive shaft via a clutch.

76. The desalination device of claim 75, wherein, The clutch is a ratcheting clutch.

77. The desalination device of any one of claims 74-76, wherein, The drive shaft is parallel to and offset from the axis of rotation.

78. The desalination apparatus of any one of claims 63 to 77, including a central support disposed along the axis of rotation and fixed to rotate with the housing, wherein the drive coupling is attached to the central support.

79. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-78, wherein, An outlet of the filter is fluidly coupled to a hose exiting the apparatus along the axis of rotation to deliver desalinated water out of the apparatus.

80. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-79, wherein, The filter includes one or more auxiliary outlets for delivering waste brine from the apparatus.

81. The desalination device of claim 80, wherein, The housing includes a plurality of curved waste outlets in fluid communication with the one or more auxiliary outlets of the filter for dispersing waste brine out of the apparatus, the plurality of curved waste outlets being arranged such that fluid exiting the tangential outlets causes torque on the apparatus in the direction of rotation.

82. The desalination device of claim 80, wherein, The housing includes a plurality of tangential waste outlets in fluid communication with the one or more auxiliary outlets of the filter for dispersing waste brine out of the apparatus.

83. The desalination device of claim 82, wherein, The tangential outlets extend in a direction opposite the direction of rotation of the apparatus such that fluid exiting the tangential outlets causes torque on the apparatus in the direction of rotation.

84. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-83, wherein, The housing includes two coaxial drive shafts along the axis of rotation, and the drive shafts are configured to roll along a guide surface to cause rotation of the housing.

85. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-84, wherein, Each drive shaft includes an engagement portion having a grip-enhancing feature for engaging the guide surface and reducing slippage between the drive shaft and the guide surface.

86. The desalination device of claim 85, wherein, The grip-enhancing feature includes a resilient surface.

87. The desalination device of any one of claims 63-86, wherein, The volume and weight of the device are selected so that its weight is about 10% to about 80% of the weight of the water from the equivalent drained volume of the body of water.

88. The desalination device of claim 87, wherein, The volume and weight of the device are selected so that its weight is about 40% to about 60% of the weight of the water from the equivalent drained volume of the body of water.

89. The desalination plant of any one of claims 63 to 88, comprising ballast.

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