Primary-secondary shaft clutch switching type swing arm wave energy power generation device

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of marine energy utilization, and discloses a sub-mother shaft clutch switching type swing arm wave energy power generation device. The device comprises a floater mechanism, a base, a sub-mother shaft mechanism, a swing arm mechanism, a power generation mechanism, a driving mechanism, a hydraulic energy absorption mechanism, a clutch mechanism and a magnetic encoder mechanism. The sub-mother shaft mechanism comprises an internal sub shaft and an external mother shaft which are coaxially sleeved and can rotate relative to each other; the swing arm mechanism comprises a main swing arm and an auxiliary swing arm, and the main swing arm and the auxiliary swing arm jointly form a quadrilateral linkage structure with the floater mechanism, so that wave fluctuation motion is converted into reciprocating rotary motion of the mother shaft; the power generation mechanism is in transmission connection with the mother shaft, and the driving mechanism is fixedly connected with the sub shaft; and the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism is connected between the main swing arm and the base. The coupling or separation of the sub shaft and the mother shaft is controlled through the clutch mechanism, and the device can be switched between an active control mode and a passive power generation mode; in the active mode, the driving mechanism adjusts swing arm motion, and in the passive mode, the mother shaft independently drives the power generation mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of marine energy regeneration technology, and in particular relates to a mother-daughter shaft clutch switching swing arm wave energy power generation device. Background Technology

[0002] The ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth's surface and contains enormous energy reserves. Among these, wave energy is considered one of the most promising marine renewable energy sources due to its high energy density, wide distribution, predictability, and diurnal availability. Among numerous wave energy conversion technologies, the swing-arm (or oscillating float) wave energy conversion device has become an important research direction and engineering hotspot in the field of marine energy utilization due to its relatively simple structure, large energy capture cross-section, sensitive wave response, and ease of modular array deployment. This type of device typically uses the undulating motion of a float under wave action to drive the swing arm to oscillate back and forth, which in turn drives a generator to output electrical energy through a transmission mechanism.

[0003] However, despite the progress made in swing-arm wave energy generation technology, existing traditional technologies still face a series of insurmountable bottlenecks on the path to commercial application. Firstly, in the energy transfer and conversion stage, existing devices mostly use rigid speed-increasing transmission mechanisms such as gearboxes, chains, or belts to connect the swing arm and the generator. Due to the reciprocating, random, and unstable nature of wave motion, these rigid transmission mechanisms are prone to backlash errors and mechanical wear under long-term exposure to directional and impact loads. Backlash not only leads to decreased transmission accuracy but also causes frequent mechanical impacts and vibrations, resulting in significant energy loss and severely impacting system conversion efficiency and equipment lifespan. Secondly, traditional transmission chains are often in a constantly meshed state, lacking a flexible operating condition switching mechanism. In favorable wave conditions, active control intervention is required to achieve impedance matching and maximum power capture; however, in weak wave conditions or when maintenance is needed, the system cannot effectively decouple from the load, leading to unnecessary mechanical resistance and losses. Furthermore, the harsh marine environment and survivability under extreme sea conditions pose the greatest challenge to the design of wave energy devices. Existing rigid connection structures lack effective overload protection and vibration absorption mechanisms. When encountering typhoons or giant waves, the enormous wave impact force is directly transmitted to the generator and precision components, which can easily lead to structural fracture or fatigue damage to core components, resulting in overall device failure. At the same time, in order to achieve efficient active control, the motion status of the swing arm needs to be monitored in real time and accurately, but existing devices often lack integrated high-precision position feedback and closed-loop control capabilities.

[0004] Therefore, addressing the aforementioned technical challenges, a key technical problem urgently needs to be solved in the field of wave energy generation: how to provide a novel wave energy conversion device that can eliminate the backlash and wear problems caused by traditional gear transmission and achieve high-precision energy transfer; simultaneously possess the ability to flexibly switch between active control mode and passive power generation mode to optimize operating strategies in real time according to wave conditions; and structurally integrate effective vibration absorption and overload protection functions to ensure equipment safety under extreme sea conditions while achieving efficient closed-loop control through precise status monitoring, thereby improving the overall conversion efficiency, environmental adaptability, and long-term operational reliability of the device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the above-mentioned shortcomings and provide a mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device.

[0006] A master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device includes: A float mechanism used to capture the undulating motion of waves; A base on which a secondary shaft is mounted; A male-female shaft mechanism is rotatably mounted on the base. The male-female shaft mechanism includes an inner female shaft and an outer female shaft that are coaxially sleeved together. The female shaft can rotate relative to the female shaft. The swing arm mechanism includes a main swing arm and a secondary swing arm arranged parallel to the main swing arm. The middle part of the main swing arm is fixedly connected to the parent shaft, the rear end of the secondary swing arm is hinged to the secondary shaft, and the front ends of the main swing arm and the secondary swing arm are hinged to the float mechanism, thereby forming a quadrilateral linkage structure for converting the undulating motion of waves into the reciprocating rotational motion of the parent shaft. A power generation mechanism is installed on the base, and the input end of the power generation mechanism is connected to the main shaft for transmission. A drive mechanism is mounted on the base, and the output end of the drive mechanism is fixedly connected to the sub-shaft. A hydraulic energy-absorbing mechanism, one end of which is mounted on the base and the other end connected to the rear end of the main swing arm, is used to absorb vibrations and provide overload protection resistance during the rotation of the swing arm; and A clutch mechanism, disposed on the male-female shaft mechanism, is used to selectively couple or disconnect the female shaft from the female shaft to achieve switching between active control mode and passive power generation mode. In active control mode, the clutch mechanism engages, and the drive mechanism outputs active torque through the sub-axis to the main shaft to adjust and control the motion state of the swing arm mechanism in real time. In passive mode, the clutch mechanism disengages, the drive mechanism disconnects from the main shaft, and the main shaft rotates independently relative to the sub-shaft to drive the power generation mechanism to generate electricity.

[0007] Furthermore, the float mechanism includes a float, a counterweight, a swing arm connector, and at least two bushing connection assemblies. The float is fixedly connected to the swing arm connector. The swing arm connector has multiple U-shaped slots laterally opened along its height direction on one side facing the swing arm mechanism; a limiting groove is opened along its height direction on the other side, and the counterweight is installed in the limiting groove. The bushing connection assembly includes a bushing, a connecting shaft, and a fixing plate. Both ends of the connecting shaft are respectively embedded in the U-shaped slots and fixedly connected to the swing arm connector through the fixing plate. The front end of the swing arm mechanism is rotatably sleeved on the connecting shaft, and the side wall of the swing arm mechanism abuts against the end face of the bushing. The bushing is used to axially limit the front end of the swing arm mechanism.

[0008] Furthermore, the front end of the main swing arm is provided with a reinforcing rib plate and is connected to the float mechanism through the bushing connection assembly; the rear end of the main swing arm is provided with a bolt hole and is connected to the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism through bolts; a through hole for the sub-shaft to pass through is opened in the middle of the main swing arm; the main swing arm is located on one side of the through hole and fits against the first flange at the end of the main shaft; the main swing arm is located on the other side of the through hole and fits against the driven member of the clutch mechanism; the first flange of the main shaft, the main swing arm, and the driven member of the clutch mechanism are fixedly connected by bolts.

[0009] Furthermore, the base includes a first side plate, a second side plate, a back connecting plate, and an internal support plate. The two ends of the back connecting plate and the internal support plate are respectively fixedly connected to the first side plate and the second side plate. The main shaft is fixed to the first side plate through a main shaft bearing seat, the sub-shaft is fixed to the second side plate through a sub-shaft bearing seat, and the auxiliary shaft is fixed between the first side plate and the second side plate through an auxiliary shaft bearing seat. The two sides of the back connecting plate are provided with ear plates extending outward.

[0010] Further, the drive mechanism includes a drive motor, a motor mounting plate, a first support rod, and a second support rod; the drive motor is fixedly connected to the motor mounting plate via the first support rod; the motor mounting plate is fixedly connected to the base via the second support rod; the output shaft of the drive motor is fixedly connected to the second flange of the sub-shaft; the power generation mechanism includes a generator body, a third support rod, and a connecting key; the generator body is fixedly mounted on the base via the third support rod; one end of the female shaft is connected to the input end of the generator body; the connecting key is embedded between the female shaft and the input end of the generator body for circumferential fixation of the female shaft and the generator body.

[0011] Furthermore, the main shaft is a hollow shaft with a stepped inner wall; the secondary shaft is inserted into the main shaft, and a retaining ring groove is formed on its outer wall; the main shaft and secondary shaft mechanism also includes a bearing assembly and a retaining ring; the bearing assembly is disposed between the inner wall of the main shaft and the outer wall of the secondary shaft; the retaining ring is embedded in the retaining ring groove, the inner ring of the bearing assembly abuts against the side of the retaining ring, and the outer ring of the bearing assembly abuts against the stepped inner wall of the main shaft, so that the axial direction of the secondary shaft and the main shaft is fixed.

[0012] Furthermore, the clutch mechanism includes a driving member, a driven member, a tightening sleeve, and a copper sleeve; the driving member is sleeved on the sub-shaft, and the tightening sleeve is disposed between the inner hole of the driving member and the sub-shaft; the driven member is fixed on the main swing arm; the copper sleeve is sleeved on the sub-shaft and located between the driving member and the driven member; the driving member and the driven member have mutually engaging teeth on their opposite end faces.

[0013] Furthermore, the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism includes a hydraulic rod housing, a hydraulic cylinder, a hydraulic support rod, a piston rod, a hydraulic cylinder head, and an air piston; the hydraulic cylinder is disposed inside the hydraulic rod housing; the middle part of the hydraulic support rod is connected to the bottom of the hydraulic cylinder, and both ends of the hydraulic support rod are rotatably connected to the base; one end of the piston rod is connected to the main swing arm, and the other end extends through the hydraulic cylinder head into the interior of the hydraulic cylinder; the air piston is slidably disposed inside the hydraulic cylinder, dividing the interior of the hydraulic cylinder into an oil chamber and an air chamber.

[0014] Furthermore, the master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generator also includes a magnetic encoder mechanism, which includes an encoder bracket, a fourth support rod, an adjusting rod, a magnetic encoder body, and a magnetic plate. The encoder bracket is fixedly installed on the base via the fourth support rod and has an internal threaded hole. The outer wall of the adjusting rod has an external thread that engages with the internal threaded hole of the encoder bracket. The magnetic encoder body is fixedly installed on the end of the adjusting rod. The magnetic plate is fixed on the end face of the master shaft and is spaced apart from the magnetic encoder body.

[0015] Furthermore, the master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generator also includes a first protective shell and a second protective shell; the first protective shell is fixed to the first side plate of the base and covers the magnetic encoder mechanism; the second protective shell is fixed to the second side plate of the base and covers the drive mechanism; the inner walls of both the first protective shell and the second protective shell are provided with shock-absorbing buffer layers.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this invention are: This invention provides a wave energy generation device with a coaxially mounted master-slave shaft and clutch switching mechanism. The device utilizes a clutch mechanism, where the engagement and disengagement of the clutch enable flexible switching between active control and passive power generation modes. In active mode, the drive mechanism can seamlessly transmit control torque to the master shaft and swing arm via the slave shaft, allowing for real-time adjustment of the float's motion response based on wave conditions to achieve impedance matching and maximum energy capture. In passive mode, the mechanical connection between the drive mechanism and the power generation load is disconnected, eliminating the obstruction of motor back electromotive force and inertia to the passive power generation process, effectively reducing system energy consumption. Simultaneously, this master-slave shaft mechanism, in conjunction with a quadrilateral linkage assembly, mitigates the irregularities of the waves... The undulating motion is transformed into a high-precision reciprocating rotational motion of the main shaft, avoiding backlash errors, mechanical shocks, and energy losses caused by traditional gearboxes or chain drives, and significantly improving the rigidity and reliability of the transmission system. Furthermore, through the direct connection between the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism and the main swing arm, the hydraulic damping characteristics are used to absorb the minute vibrations and shocks in the mechanical transmission process in real time under normal sea conditions, ensuring the smooth operation of the system. When encountering extreme wind and wave impacts, it quickly provides high-strength overload protection resistance, limiting the range of motion of the swing arm and effectively preventing fatigue damage or structural failure of mechanical components. Thus, while greatly improving the wave energy conversion efficiency, it ensures the long-term survivability and operational stability of the device in complex marine environments. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of another three-dimensional structure of the mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the float mechanism from one perspective of an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the float mechanism from another perspective in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the base according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram illustrating the connection and cooperation relationship between the float mechanism and the swing arm mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram illustrating the connection and cooperation relationship between the main swing arm, the male-female shaft mechanism, the power generation mechanism, the clutch mechanism, and the drive mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram from the main viewpoint showing the connection and cooperation relationship between the main swing arm, the male-female shaft mechanism, the power generation mechanism, the clutch mechanism, and the drive mechanism in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 for Figure 8 Cross-sectional view from the perspective of AA (American Academy of Sciences); Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram from one perspective illustrating the connection and cooperation relationship between the sub-shaft, drive mechanism, clutch mechanism, and second side plate in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the connection and cooperation relationship between the sub-shaft, drive mechanism, clutch mechanism and second side plate in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective. Figure 12 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the connection and cooperation relationship between the main shaft, magnetic encoder mechanism, power generation mechanism and first side plate in an embodiment of the present invention, viewed from the main perspective. Figure 13 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the connection and cooperation relationship between the main shaft, magnetic encoder mechanism, power generation mechanism and first side plate in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 14 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the connection and cooperation relationship between the main shaft, magnetic encoder mechanism, power generation mechanism and first side plate in an embodiment of the present invention from another perspective. Figure 15 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 16 for Figure 15 A cross-sectional view from the perspective of a BB (Browser).

[0018] Reference numerals: 100, Mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generator; 110, Float mechanism; 111, Float; 112, Counterweight; 113, Swing arm connector; 1131, U-shaped groove; 1132, Limiting groove; 114, Bushing connection assembly; 1141, Bushing; 1142, Connecting shaft; 1143, Fixing plate; 120, Base; 121, Secondary shaft; 1211, Secondary shaft bearing seat; 122, First side Side plate; 123, Second side plate; 124, Back connecting plate; 125, Internal support plate; 126, Ear plate; 130, Male and female shaft mechanism; 131, Female shaft; 1311, Female shaft bearing seat; 1312, Second flange; 1313, Snap ring groove; 132, Female shaft; 1321, First flange; 1322, Female shaft bearing seat; 133, Bearing assembly; 140, Swing arm mechanism; 141, Main swing arm; 1411, Reinforcement Rib plate; 1412, Bolt hole; 1413, Bolt; 142, Auxiliary swing arm; 150, Generator mechanism; 151, Generator body; 152, Third support rod; 153, Connecting key; 160, Drive mechanism; 161, Drive motor; 162, Motor mounting plate; 163, First support rod; 164, Second support rod; 170, Hydraulic energy absorption mechanism; 171, Hydraulic rod housing; 172, Hydraulic cylinder; 173, Hydraulic support 174. Support rod; 175. Piston rod; 176. Hydraulic cylinder head; 180. Air piston; 181. Clutch mechanism; 182. Driving component; 183. Tensioning sleeve; 184. Copper sleeve; 190. Magnetic encoder mechanism; 191. Encoder bracket; 192. Fourth support rod; 193. Adjusting rod; 194. Magnetic encoder body; 195. Magnetic sheet; 210. First protective shell; 220. Second protective shell. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The following detailed description, in conjunction with embodiments, provides a further specific account of the wave energy generation device of the present invention, featuring a master-slave shaft clutch-switching mechanism. For the sake of simplicity, this document cannot exhaustively list all alternative technical features and embodiments included in the present invention. Therefore, those skilled in the art should understand that any technical feature and embodiment within this embodiment does not limit the scope of protection of the present invention. The scope of protection includes all alternative technical features and embodiments adopted by those skilled in the art without inventive effort. Specifically, any embodiment obtained by replacing any technical feature in the present invention or by combining any two or more technical features provided by the present invention should be within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0020] like Figures 1 to 16As shown, this embodiment provides a master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device 100. This device, as a highly efficient marine energy capture equipment, mainly consists of a float mechanism 110, a base 120, a master-slave shaft mechanism 130, a swing arm mechanism 140, a power generation mechanism 150, a drive mechanism 160, a hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170, a clutch mechanism 180, a magnetic encoder mechanism 190, and a protective housing assembly (including a first protective housing 210 and a second protective housing 220). The entire device is fixed to an external platform, such as an offshore platform, a shore-based structure, or a large floating body, via the base 120. The float mechanism 110 floats on the sea surface and moves with the waves. The swing arm mechanism 140 drives the master shaft 132 in the master-slave shaft mechanism 130 to reciprocate, thereby driving the power generation mechanism 150 to generate electrical energy. Simultaneously, the drive mechanism 160 can be coupled to the master-slave shaft mechanism 130 via the clutch mechanism 180 to achieve active control of the swing arm movement.

[0021] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the float mechanism 110 is used to capture wave energy and includes a float 111, a counterweight 112, a swing arm connector 113, and at least two bushing connection assemblies 114. The float 111, as a floating body in direct contact with seawater, is preferably integrally molded from corrosion-resistant, low-density polyethylene material using rotational molding or 3D printing. Its lower part is designed as a cylindrical structure with a spherical bottom to reduce water flow resistance and improve heave response sensitivity. The upper surface of the float 111 is flat and used to mount the swing arm connector 113.

[0022] The swing arm connector 113 is a vertically arranged hollow column or frame structure, and its bottom is fastened to the upper surface of the float 111 by bolts or welding. On the side of the swing arm connector 113 facing the swing arm mechanism 140 (i.e., the front side), multiple transversely penetrating U-shaped slots 1131 are spaced apart and parallel along its height direction. The U-shaped slots 1131 provide mounting positions for adjusting the hinge height between the swing arm mechanism 140 and the float 111, thereby changing the lever arm length and draft of the float. On the side of the swing arm connector 113 facing away from the swing arm mechanism (i.e., the rear side), a vertically continuous limiting groove 1132 is formed along its height direction. The counterweight 112 is shaped to match the limiting groove 1132 and is slidably installed in the limiting groove 1132. By fixing the counterweight 112 at different height positions or increasing or decreasing the number of counterweights 112, the center of gravity position and overall mass of the float mechanism 110 can be precisely adjusted, thereby adjusting the static balance draft of the float 111 in the water to adapt to different sea conditions and wave frequencies.

[0023] The bushing connection assembly 114 is used to achieve a rotatable connection between the float mechanism 110 and the swing arm mechanism 140. Each bushing connection assembly 114 includes a bushing 1141, a connecting shaft 1142, and a fixing plate 1143. The connecting shaft 1142 is horizontally positioned, with its two ends respectively inserted into a U-shaped slot 1131 on the swing arm connector 113. There are usually two fixing plates 1143, located on the left and right sides of the U-shaped slot 1131, respectively. The fixing plates 1143 are bolted through the fixing plates 1143 and locked to the side wall of the swing arm connector 113, thereby firmly pressing and locking the connecting shaft 1142 in the U-shaped slot 1131 to prevent it from falling off or rotating. The bushing 1141 is coaxially sleeved on the connecting shaft 1142. The front end of the swing arm mechanism 140 is rotatably sleeved on the connecting shaft 1142, and the side wall of the swing arm mechanism 140 abuts against the end face of the bushing 1141. The bushing 1141 mainly serves as an axial limiter, restricting the left and right movement of the swing arm mechanism 140 on the connecting shaft 1142, ensuring that the main swing arm 141 is always located at the center of the U-shaped groove 1131, while allowing the float to change angle relative to the swing arm.

[0024] like Figure 1 , Figure 5 As shown, the base 120 is the supporting skeleton of the entire device, adopting a frame-type box structure to ensure high rigidity and lightweight. The base 120 mainly includes a first side plate 122 (left side plate), a second side plate 123 (right side plate), a back connecting plate 124, and an internal support plate 125. The first side plate 122 and the second side plate 123 are arranged parallel to each other and are connected into a whole by the back connecting plate 124 located at the rear end and the internal support plate 125 located in the middle. The first side plate 122 and the second side plate 123 are made of high-strength aluminum alloy or stainless steel plates and are CNC machined. Multiple weight-reducing holes are opened on the plate surface to reduce weight, and precision mounting holes are also opened for installing various bearing seats and support rods.

[0025] Multiple sets of ear plates 126 extend outward from both sides of the back connecting plate 124 of the base 120. These ear plates 126 have through holes for mounting or fixing the entire mother-daughter shaft clutch-switching swing arm wave energy generator 100 to the external offshore platform structure via pins or bolts. An internal support plate 125 spans between the two side plates, acting as a reinforcing rib to improve the torsional rigidity of the base. Furthermore, mounting holes are provided at corresponding positions on the lower parts of the first side plate 122 and the second side plate 123 for mounting hydraulic support rods 173, thus providing hinged support at the bottom of the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170. A large-diameter mounting position for mounting the mother shaft bearing seat 1322 is provided on the first side plate 122, and a corresponding mounting position for mounting the daughter shaft bearing seat 1311 is provided on the second side plate 123, ensuring the coaxiality of the mother-daughter shaft system.

[0026] like Figure 1 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 15 and Figure 16 As shown, the swing arm mechanism 140 adopts a parallelogram linkage design, including a main swing arm 141 and a secondary swing arm 142. The main swing arm 141 is located above, and the secondary swing arm 142 is located below, and the two are parallel to each other. The front ends of the main swing arm 141 and the secondary swing arm 142 are respectively rotatably connected to the connecting shafts 1142 in the two bushing connection assemblies 114 at different heights on the float mechanism 110. Specifically, the front end of the swing arm mechanism 140 and the connecting shaft 1142 adopt a clearance fit, and the connecting shaft 1142 is a stepped shaft. The front end of the swing arm mechanism 140 passes through the connecting shaft 1142 through the shaft hole and abuts against one side of the bushing 1141. In the assembled state, the bushing 1141 restricts the movement of the swing arm mechanism 140 along the axial direction of the connecting shaft 1142, so that the main swing arm 141 and the secondary swing arm 142 are always at the center position of the connecting shaft 1142, allowing them to rotate freely around the connecting shaft 1142. This non-rigid fixed connection method can effectively avoid assembly interference caused by component processing errors, while significantly reducing mechanical friction resistance during the swing arm rotation process.

[0027] The middle part of the main swing arm 141 is fixed to the parent shaft 132 via a connecting structure (see the parent-child shaft section below for details). The rear end of the main swing arm 141 extends rearward and is connected to the top of the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170 via swing arm connecting bolts 1413. The rear end of the auxiliary swing arm 142 is hinged to the auxiliary shaft 121 mounted on the base 120 via a revolute joint. The auxiliary shaft 121 is fixed across the first side plate 122 and the second side plate 123 via an auxiliary shaft bearing seat 1211, and is located below the parent-child shaft mechanism 130. Since the lines connecting the main swing arm 141, the auxiliary swing arm 142, and the float mechanism 110, as well as the line connecting the centers of the two shafts on the base 120, form a parallelogram geometry, this ensures that the float 111 always maintains a vertical attitude during wave motion, avoiding additional hydrodynamic losses caused by float tilting.

[0028] The main swing arm 141 adopts a high-strength metal beam structure. To improve its bending resistance, it is equipped with reinforcing ribs 1411 on its side or inside. The rear end of the main swing arm 141 extends into a short cantilever. The cantilever is provided with bolt holes 1412 and is connected to the top of the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170 through swing arm connecting bolts 1413.

[0029] The hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170 mainly includes a hydraulic rod housing 171, a hydraulic cylinder 172, a hydraulic support rod 173, a piston rod 174, a hydraulic cylinder cover 175, and an air piston 176. The hydraulic cylinder 172 is protected inside the hydraulic rod housing 171, and its bottom is hinged to the base 120 via the hydraulic support rod 173. The upper end of the piston rod 174 is connected to the rear end of the main swing arm 141 via bolts 1413, and its lower end extends through the sealed hydraulic cylinder cover 175 into the oil chamber of the hydraulic cylinder 172, which is filled with hydraulic oil. Inside the hydraulic cylinder 172, a freely sliding air piston 176 (floating piston) is also provided, dividing the interior of the hydraulic cylinder into an upper oil chamber and a lower air chamber (filled with high-pressure nitrogen). When the main swing arm 141 swings, it drives the piston rod 174 to extend and retract within the hydraulic cylinder 172. The hydraulic oil flows through the damping hole on the piston to generate damping force and absorb vibration. When encountering extreme sea conditions, the swing arm swings sharply, causing the piston rod to compress rapidly. The gas in the air chamber is compressed to provide nonlinear stiffness. This, combined with hydraulic damping, limits the swing arm stroke, preventing "bottoming out" or structural damage, and providing overload protection.

[0030] like Figures 7 to 9 , Figures 12 to 14 As shown. The male-female shaft mechanism 130 includes an inner female shaft 131 and an outer female shaft 132 that are coaxially fitted together.

[0031] The mother shaft 132 is a hollow shaft structure, and its left end (refer to) Figure 8 (View orientation) A first flange 1321 is designed, which is integrally formed or welded to the mother shaft 132. The mother shaft 132 is rotatably mounted on the outside of the first side plate 122 of the base 120 via a mother shaft bearing seat 1322. The inner hole of the mother shaft 132 is not a straight hole, but has a stepped structure for mounting internal bearings.

[0032] The slave shaft 131 is a slender solid shaft or a thick-walled tubular shaft, coaxially inserted into the inner bore of the mother shaft 132. The slave shaft 131 is longer than the mother shaft 132, with its right end extending beyond the mother shaft 132 to the second side plate 123 of the base 120. It is rotatably supported on the second side plate 123 by a slave shaft bearing seat 1311 and continues to extend to the right to connect with the drive mechanism 160. A bearing assembly 133 (typically a pair of deep groove ball bearings or angular contact bearings) is installed between the inner wall of the mother shaft 132 and the outer wall of the slave shaft 131, allowing the mother shaft 132 and slave shaft 131 to rotate independently without interference. The inner bore of the mother shaft 132 is designed with a stepped step (or shoulder) to abut against one side of the outer ring of the bearing assembly 133. A retaining ring groove 1313 is provided on the outer wall of the spindle 131. The retaining ring is installed in the groove and abuts against the inner ring end face of the bearing assembly 133. At the same time, the other side of the outer ring of the bearing assembly 133 is limited by a stepped step (or a separately installed retaining ring) in the mother shaft 132. Through this cooperation, the bearing assembly 133 is fixed between the mother shaft and the spindle, which not only achieves the relative fixation of the spindle 131 and the mother shaft 132 in the axial direction to prevent them from falling out, but also ensures that the two can rotate smoothly relative to each other through the bearing.

[0033] A large through hole is provided in the middle of the main swing arm 141, through which the slave shaft 131 passes but does not contact it. One side of the main swing arm 141 located at the through hole is tightly fitted to the end face of the first flange 1321 of the mother shaft 132; the other side of the main swing arm 141 is tightly fitted to the driven member 182 of the clutch mechanism 180. Multiple high-strength bolts pass through the driven member 182, the main swing arm 141, and the first flange 1321, fixing the three together as one unit. Therefore, the swing of the main swing arm 141 directly drives the mother shaft 132 and the clutch driven member 182 to rotate synchronously.

[0034] The clutch mechanism 180 adopts a dog clutch electromagnetic clutch or mechanical clutch structure, including a driving member 181, a driven member 182, a tightening sleeve 183, and a copper sleeve 184. The driving member 181 is sleeved on the sub-shaft 131 and fastened to the sub-shaft 131 by the tightening sleeve 183, rotating together with the sub-shaft 131. The driven member 182 is fixed on the main swing arm 141 as described above. Both the driving member 181 and the driven member 182 have toothed structures (dog clutch teeth) on their opposite end faces. A copper sleeve 184 is sleeved on the sub-shaft 131 between the driving member 181 and the driven member 182. The function of the copper sleeve 184 is to precisely control the axial distance between the driving member and the driven member in the disengaged state, prevent accidental friction, and act as a sliding bearing to support the rotation of the driven member 182 relative to the sub-shaft 131.

[0035] like Figure 10 , Figure 11As shown, the drive mechanism 160 includes a drive motor 161, a motor mounting plate 162, a first support rod 163, and a second support rod 164. The drive motor 161 (typically a servo motor or torque motor) is suspended and fixed to the motor mounting plate 162 via multiple first support rods 163. The motor mounting plate 162 is then fixed to the second side plate 123 of the base 120 via multiple second support rods 164. This multi-stage support structure facilitates motor position adjustment and isolates vibration. The output shaft of the drive motor 161 is rigidly connected to the right end of the sub-shaft 131 via a coupling or a second flange 1312, thereby directly driving the sub-shaft 131 to rotate.

[0036] like Figures 12 to 14 As shown, the power generation mechanism 150 includes a generator body 151 (typically a permanent magnet synchronous generator), a third support rod 152, and a connecting key 153. The generator body 151 has an annular or hollow structure, is sleeved on the outside of the main shaft 132, and is fixed to the first side plate 122 of the base 120 by multiple third support rods 152. A keyway is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the main shaft 132, and the rotor input end of the generator body 151 is circumferentially fixed and driven to the main shaft 132 by the connecting key 153. When the main shaft 132 reciprocates, it directly drives the generator rotor to shear magnetic field lines to generate electricity.

[0037] like Figure 12 , Figure 14 As shown, to achieve high-precision closed-loop control, the device includes a magnetic encoder mechanism 190. This mechanism includes an encoder bracket 191, a fourth support rod 192, an adjusting rod 193, a magnetic encoder body 194, and a magnetic plate 195. The encoder bracket 191 is fixed to the first side plate 122 of the base 120 via the fourth support rod 192 and spans the end of the main shaft 132. The encoder bracket 191 has an internal threaded hole at its center, and the adjusting rod 193 has an external thread on its outer surface, which is screwed into the bracket. The magnetic encoder body 194 (such as an absolute encoder read head) is fixed to the end of the adjusting rod 193. The magnetic plate 195 is attached to or embedded in the leftmost end face of the main shaft 132. By rotating the adjusting rod 193, the air gap distance between the magnetic encoder body 194 and the magnetic plate 195 can be finely adjusted to obtain the best signal quality. Since the magnetic plate rotates with the mother shaft 132, the magnetic encoder body 194 remains stationary, thus enabling real-time, non-contact measurement of the absolute angular position of the mother shaft 132 (i.e., the main swing arm 141).

[0038] like Figure 2As shown, the device has a first protective housing 210 and a second protective housing 220 on its two sides. The first protective housing 210 is fixed to one side of the first side plate 122 and completely covers the end of the main shaft and the magnetic encoder mechanism 190. The second protective housing 220 is fixed to one side of the second side plate 123 and completely covers the drive mechanism 160 and the end of the sub-shaft. The inner walls of both housings are lined with a shock-absorbing layer of rubber or foam, and the mating surfaces are equipped with waterproof sealing strips to resist seawater corrosion, salt spray erosion, and mechanical impact, ensuring the safety of precision electrical components.

[0039] Working principle of the master-slave shaft clutch switching swing arm wave energy generation device provided by the present invention The present invention provides a master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device 100, which, by utilizing its master-slave shaft mechanism and clutch mechanism design, can flexibly switch between "passive power generation mode" and "active control mode". Its working principle is as follows: 1. Passive power generation mode (normal sea conditions or energy-saving mode) In this mode, the control system keeps the clutch mechanism 180 in a disengaged state. At this time, the driving element 181 (connecting the slave shaft 131) and the driven element 182 (connecting the main swing arm 141 and the mother shaft 132) of the clutch are axially disengaged, and their teeth are not engaged. The drive mechanism 160 is not energized, and the slave shaft 131 is in a free or stationary state.

[0040] When the sea surface is undulating with the waves, the float mechanism 110 oscillates (moves up and down) with the waves. This motion is transmitted to the swing arm mechanism 140 through the bushing connection assembly 114, driving the main swing arm 141 and the auxiliary swing arm 142 to reciprocate around the axis on the base 120. Since the main swing arm 141 is rigidly connected to the mother shaft 132 by bolts, the swing of the main swing arm 141 directly drives the mother shaft 132 to reciprocate outside the daughter shaft 131. The mother shaft 132 drives the rotor of the power generation mechanism 150 to rotate through the connecting key 153, thereby converting the mechanical energy of the waves into electrical energy output.

[0041] During this process, due to clutch disengagement, the movement of the swing arm does not need to overcome the magnetic reluctance torque and rotational inertia of the drive motor 161. The sub-shaft 131 and the main shaft 132 rotate relative to each other through the bearing assembly 133, minimizing mechanical friction and losses and improving power generation efficiency under small waves. At the same time, the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170 passively extends and retracts with the movement of the swing arm, providing basic damping force, smoothing the input torque of the generator, and eliminating vibrations caused by mechanical backlash.

[0042] 2. Active control mode (complex sea conditions or optimized efficiency mode) When phase control (to match the device's resonant frequency to the wave frequency), impedance matching, or protection of the device under extreme sea conditions is required, the system enters active control mode.

[0043] First, the control system commands the clutch mechanism 180 to engage, and the teeth of the driving member 181 and the driven member 182 mesh tightly, mechanically locking the sub-shaft 131 and the main swing arm 141 (and the mother shaft 132) together. At this time, the drive motor 161 is energized and operates.

[0044] Maximum power capture (phase control): The magnetic encoder mechanism 190 monitors the angle and speed of the swing arm in real time. Based on the wave prediction algorithm, the controller controls the drive motor 161 to apply an additional torque (acceleration or deceleration torque) to the main swing arm 141 through the sub-shaft 131. For example, applying a torque at the moment of wave capture accelerates the swing arm, keeping its motion phase optimally synchronized with the wave excitation force phase, thereby significantly increasing the swing amplitude of the swing arm, allowing the main shaft 132 to obtain a larger angular velocity, and greatly improving the instantaneous output power of the power generation mechanism 150.

[0045] Extreme sea state protection: When encountering typhoons or giant waves, if the magnetic encoder detects that the swing arm angle is close to the limit or the acceleration is too large, the drive motor 161 can output a reverse braking torque. Together with the high-pressure gas stiffness and hydraulic damping of the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170, it can suppress the violent movement of the swing arm and even lock the swing arm in a safe position (such as a horizontal position or a submerged position) to prevent the float from flying out of the water and falling and causing structural damage.

[0046] 3. Hydraulic overload protection principle Regardless of the mode, the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism 170 is always operational. Within the normal swing range, the piston rod 174 makes small-amplitude piston movements within the hydraulic cylinder 172. The hydraulic oil dissipates a small amount of energy through the damping orifice, acting as a "shock absorber" to make the transmission smoother. When the swing arm angle is too large, causing the piston rod 174 to about to strike the cylinder bottom or cylinder head, the floating air piston 176 in the hydraulic cylinder compresses the nitrogen in the air chamber, causing the gas pressure to rise sharply. This results in a sharp increase in nonlinear spring stiffness, flexibly limiting the extreme position of the swing arm and avoiding rigid collisions.

[0047] In summary, this invention achieves decoupling and reconstruction of the mechanical transmission path through a master-slave shaft structure, which retains the high efficiency of direct drive while also possessing the flexibility of active control and the safety of extreme working conditions.

[0048] For those skilled in the art, other variations or modifications can be made based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively list all possible implementations, but obvious variations or modifications derived therefrom are still within the scope of protection of the claims of this invention.

Claims

1. A master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device, characterized in that, include: A float mechanism used to capture the undulating motion of waves; A base on which a secondary shaft is mounted; A male-female shaft mechanism is rotatably mounted on the base. The male-female shaft mechanism includes an inner female shaft and an outer female shaft that are coaxially sleeved together. The female shaft can rotate relative to the female shaft. The swing arm mechanism includes a main swing arm and a secondary swing arm arranged parallel to the main swing arm. The middle part of the main swing arm is fixedly connected to the parent shaft, the rear end of the secondary swing arm is hinged to the secondary shaft, and the front ends of the main swing arm and the secondary swing arm are hinged to the float mechanism, thereby forming a quadrilateral linkage structure for converting the undulating motion of waves into the reciprocating rotational motion of the parent shaft. A power generation mechanism is installed on the base, and the input end of the power generation mechanism is connected to the main shaft for transmission. A drive mechanism is mounted on the base, and the output end of the drive mechanism is fixedly connected to the sub-shaft. A hydraulic energy absorption mechanism, one end of which is mounted on the base and the other end is connected to the rear end of the main swing arm, is used to absorb vibration and provide overload protection resistance during the rotation of the swing arm. as well as A clutch mechanism, disposed on the male-female shaft mechanism, is used to selectively couple or disconnect the female shaft from the female shaft to achieve switching between active control mode and passive power generation mode. In active control mode, the clutch mechanism engages, and the drive mechanism outputs active torque through the sub-axis to the main shaft to adjust and control the motion state of the swing arm mechanism in real time. In passive mode, the clutch mechanism disengages, the drive mechanism disconnects from the main shaft, and the main shaft rotates independently relative to the sub-shaft to drive the power generation mechanism to generate electricity.

2. The wave energy generation device with a master-slave shaft clutch switching mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The float mechanism includes a float, a counterweight, a swing arm connector, and at least two bushing connection assemblies. The float is fixedly connected to the swing arm connector. The swing arm connector has multiple U-shaped slots laterally opened along its height direction on one side facing the swing arm mechanism; a limiting groove is opened along its height direction on the other side, and the counterweight is installed in the limiting groove. The bushing connection assembly includes a bushing, a connecting shaft, and a fixing plate. Both ends of the connecting shaft are respectively embedded in the U-shaped slots and fixedly connected to the swing arm connector through the fixing plate. The front end of the swing arm mechanism is rotatably sleeved on the connecting shaft, and the side wall of the swing arm mechanism abuts against the end face of the bushing. The bushing is used to axially limit the front end of the swing arm mechanism.

3. The mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The front end of the main swing arm is provided with a reinforcing rib plate and is connected to the float mechanism through the bushing connection assembly; the rear end of the main swing arm is provided with a bolt hole and is connected to the hydraulic energy absorption mechanism through bolts; a through hole for the sub-shaft to pass through is opened in the middle of the main swing arm; the main swing arm is located on one side of the through hole and is attached to the first flange at the end of the main shaft; the main swing arm is located on the other side of the through hole and is attached to the driven member of the clutch mechanism; the first flange of the main shaft, the main swing arm, and the driven member of the clutch mechanism are fixedly connected by bolts.

4. The mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base includes a first side plate, a second side plate, a back connecting plate, and an internal support plate. The two ends of the back connecting plate and the internal support plate are fixedly connected to the first side plate and the second side plate, respectively. The main shaft is fixed to the first side plate by a main shaft bearing seat, the sub-shaft is fixed to the second side plate by a sub-shaft bearing seat, and the auxiliary shaft is fixed between the first side plate and the second side plate by an auxiliary shaft bearing seat. The two sides of the back connecting plate are provided with ear plates extending outward.

5. The wave energy generation device with a master-slave shaft clutch switching mechanism according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive mechanism includes a drive motor, a motor mounting plate, a first support rod, and a second support rod. The drive motor is fixedly connected to the motor mounting plate via the first support rod. The motor mounting plate is fixedly connected to the base via the second support rod. The output shaft of the drive motor is fixedly connected to the second flange of the sub-shaft. The power generation mechanism includes a generator body, a third support rod, and a connecting key. The generator body is fixedly mounted on the base via the third support rod. One end of the main shaft is connected to the input end of the generator body. The connecting key is embedded between the main shaft and the input end of the generator body for circumferential fixation of the main shaft and the generator body.

6. The mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main shaft is a hollow shaft with a stepped inner wall. The secondary shaft is inserted into the main shaft and has a retaining ring groove on its outer wall. The main shaft and secondary shaft mechanism also includes a bearing assembly and a retaining ring. The bearing assembly is disposed between the inner wall of the main shaft and the outer wall of the secondary shaft. The retaining ring is embedded in the retaining ring groove. The inner ring of the bearing assembly abuts against the side of the retaining ring, and the outer ring of the bearing assembly abuts against the stepped inner wall of the main shaft, so that the axial direction of the secondary shaft and the main shaft is fixed.

7. The mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The clutch mechanism includes a driving member, a driven member, a tightening sleeve, and a copper sleeve; the driving member is sleeved on the sub-shaft, and the tightening sleeve is disposed between the inner hole of the driving member and the sub-shaft; the driven member is fixed on the main swing arm; the copper sleeve is sleeved on the sub-shaft and located between the driving member and the driven member; the driving member and the driven member have mutually engaging teeth on their opposite end faces.

8. The mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The hydraulic energy absorption mechanism includes a hydraulic rod housing, a hydraulic cylinder, a hydraulic support rod, a piston rod, a hydraulic cylinder cover, and an air piston. The hydraulic cylinder is disposed inside the hydraulic rod housing. The middle part of the hydraulic support rod is connected to the bottom of the hydraulic cylinder, and both ends of the hydraulic support rod are rotatably connected to the base. One end of the piston rod is connected to the main swing arm, and the other end extends through the hydraulic cylinder cover into the interior of the hydraulic cylinder. The air piston is slidably disposed inside the hydraulic cylinder, dividing the interior of the hydraulic cylinder into an oil chamber and an air chamber.

9. The mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generator also includes a magnetic encoder mechanism, which includes an encoder bracket, a fourth support rod, an adjusting rod, a magnetic encoder body, and a magnetic plate. The encoder bracket is fixedly installed on the base via the fourth support rod and has an internal threaded hole. The outer wall of the adjusting rod has an external thread that engages with the internal threaded hole of the encoder bracket. The magnetic encoder body is fixedly installed on the end of the adjusting rod. The magnetic plate is fixed on the end face of the master shaft and is spaced apart from the magnetic encoder body.

10. The mother-daughter shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generation device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The master-slave shaft clutch-type swing arm wave energy generator also includes a first protective shell and a second protective shell; the first protective shell is fixed to the first side plate of the base and covers the magnetic encoder mechanism; the second protective shell is fixed to the second side plate of the base and covers the drive mechanism; the inner walls of the first protective shell and the second protective shell are both provided with shock-absorbing buffer layers.

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