Fluid power generation device and fluid power generation system

Abstract

To realize stable power generation in a fluid power generation device that generates power by a rotation part rotating around an axis of a rotation shaft part for power generation.SOLUTION: A fluid power generation device 100 comprises: a floating body part 102 that generates buoyancy in fluid; a rotation part 130 that rotates around an axis of a rotation shaft part for power generation supported by the floating body part; and a power generation part 140 that generates power by the rotation part rotating around the axis of the rotation shaft part for power generation. The floating body part has an elongated shape. The rotation shaft part for power generation is supported by the floating body part so as to extend in a longitudinal direction of the floating body part. The floating body portion is provided with a weight part 110 that positions the floating body part so that the longitudinal direction of the floating body part faces a substantially vertical direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fluid power generation device and a fluid power generation system that generate electricity by utilizing the force of waves (or ocean waves) generated in a fluid or the flow of a fluid such as an ocean current or tidal current. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, wave power generation devices (fluid power generation devices) have been known that generate power by rotating a rotating part around the axis of a rotating shaft part (power-generating rotating shaft part) supported on a floating body part that floats on the surface of a fluid such as the surface of water or the surface of the sea. In such wave power generation devices, the floating body part rotates around its axis due to the movement of waves, causing the rotating part to rotate around the axis of the rotating shaft part supported on the floating body part, and electricity is generated from this rotational motion (Patent Documents 1 and 2, etc.). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 60-159886 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-040342 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, conventional fluid power generation devices that generate power by rotating a rotating part around the axis of a power-generating rotating shaft part have a problem in that it is difficult to generate power stably. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a fluid power generation device comprising a floating body section that floats on a fluid surface, a rotating section that rotates around the axis of a power-generating rotating shaft section supported by the floating body section, and a power generation section that generates power by rotation of the rotating section around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft section, wherein the floating body section has an elongated shape, the power-generating rotating shaft section is supported by the floating body section so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the floating body section, and the floating body section is provided with a weight section that positions the longitudinal direction of the floating body section so as to be approximately vertical. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, stable power generation can be achieved in a fluid power generation device that generates power by rotating a rotating part around the axis of a power-generating rotating shaft part. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a hybrid power generation unit according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing functional blocks constituting the hybrid power generation unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing functional blocks constituting a hybrid power generation unit according to another example. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a power generation mechanism of a vertical axis type wave power generation device included in the hybrid power generation unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the power generation mechanism unit at the lower end in the longitudinal direction of the vertical axis type wave power generation device. [Figure 6] (a) is an explanatory diagram showing the posture of a vertical-axis wave power generator in which the longitudinal direction of the floating body floating on the sea surface is oriented approximately vertically, and (b) is an explanatory diagram showing the posture of a vertical-axis wave power generator in which the longitudinal direction of the floating body floating on the sea surface is tilted from the approximately vertical direction. [Figure 7] 3A and 3B are diagrams showing an example of the shape of an underwater rotary power generating device included in the hybrid power generating unit. [Figure 8] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing the orientation of the underwater rotary power generating device with the longitudinal direction of the housing oriented substantially horizontally. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a slip ring used in the underwater rotary power generating device. [Figure 10] (a) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the vertical-axis wave power generation device is located in a floating position where the longitudinal upper end of the floating body is located above the sea surface, and (b) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the vertical-axis wave power generation device is located in a submerged position where the longitudinal upper end of the floating body is located below the sea surface. [Figure 11] 1(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the ballast system when the vertical-axis wave power generation device is in the floating position, and FIG. 1(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the ballast system when the vertical-axis wave power generation device is in the submerged position. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the ballast device. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the power generation principle of a vertical axis wave power generation device and an underwater rotary power generation device. [Figure 14] Schematic diagram for explaining an example of the power generation principle of a vertical axis wave power generation device that uses a liquid tank with an air chamber to solve the cost issue of the sinker. [Figure 15] This is a schematic diagram to explain an example of the power generation principle of an underwater rotary power generation device that uses a liquid tank with an air chamber to solve the cost issue of the weight. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the operation of a vertical axis wave power generation device having a wind receiving plate. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a control system that can be used in a vertical axis wave power generation device or an underwater rotary power generation device. [Figure 18] An explanatory diagram showing various types of power generation equipment (wind power generation equipment, solar power generation equipment, wave power generation equipment, underwater rotary power generation equipment) that generate electricity using natural energy installed in fishing ports and harbors, as well as EV charging stations installed on land in fishing ports, harbors, etc. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a power supply system that supplies power from a variety of different power generation devices to an EV charging station. [Figure 20] An explanatory diagram illustrating a multi-type power generation device, a floating large-capacity storage battery, and a land-based EV charging station. [Figure 21] An explanatory diagram illustrating a wave power generation device, a tidal power generation device, and an onshore hydrogen production and filling station. [Figure 22] An explanatory diagram illustrating a wave power generation device, a tidal power generation device, a hydrogen production carrier, and a hydrogen filling station. [Figure 23] An explanatory diagram illustrating an ocean energy power generation system consisting of a vertical axis wave power generation device and an underwater rotary power generation device, and a floating hydrogen production and filling station consisting of a hydrogen production and filling ship, which is a physical structure. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a floating hydrogen production and filling station. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a floating platform-type hydrogen production and filling station. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a floating hydrogen filling station. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a floating platform hydrogen filling station. [Figure 28] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the control system of a floating hydrogen filling station. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment of a fluid power generation device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following explanation, we will use an example of using the fluid power generation device offshore (at sea), but it may also be used anywhere where fluid waves or storm surges occur, such as on the surface of water in rivers or lakes, on the coast, or on fluid stored in artificial structures such as pools.

[0009] First, an embodiment of a hybrid power generation unit, which is a fluid power generation unit including a plurality of fluid power generation devices according to the present invention, will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a hybrid power generation unit 1 according to this embodiment. In the example of FIG. 1, a plurality of hybrid power generation units 1 are shown.

[0010] The hybrid power generation unit 1 of this embodiment includes a vertical-axis wave power generation device 100, which is a vertical-axis fluid power generation device, a submersible rotary power generation device 200, which is a horizontal-axis fluid power generation device, and a surface mooring device 300. The surface mooring device 300 functions as an external mooring section for mooring the vertical-axis wave power generation device 100 and the submersible rotary power generation device 200. The surface mooring device 300 may be equipped with a moving means 301 such as a propulsion screw to move the installation locations of the vertical-axis wave power generation device 100 and the submersible rotary power generation device 200.

[0011] As shown in Fig. 1, the vertical axis wave power generator 100 has an elongated shape (for example, a cylindrical shape) and is disposed in such a manner that its longitudinal direction is oriented in a substantially vertical direction and one end (upper end) in the longitudinal direction is positioned above the sea surface, which is the fluid surface. On the other hand, the submersible rotary power generator 200 has an elongated shape (for example, a cylindrical shape) and is disposed in the sea (in the fluid) in such a manner that its longitudinal direction is oriented in a substantially horizontal direction, as shown in Fig. 1.

[0012] 1, one hybrid power generation unit 1 is composed of one vertical-axis wave power generation device 100 and multiple submersible rotary power generation devices 200, but the number of vertical-axis wave power generation devices 100 and the number of submersible rotary power generation devices 200 can be set arbitrarily. Of course, the vertical-axis wave power generation device 100 and the submersible rotary power generation device 200 can also be used alone without being connected to the other fluid power generation devices 100, 200.

[0013] In the hybrid power generation unit 1 of this embodiment, one vertical-axis wave power generator 100 and a plurality of (four in the illustrated example) submersible rotary power generators 200 are connected to each other by connecting wires 81A and 81B as supporting and connecting members. Specifically, one end of the vertical wire 81A is attached to the other longitudinal end (lower end) of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100. Furthermore, one end of each horizontal wire 81B is attached to one longitudinal end (tip end) of each submersible rotary power generator 200. The other end of each horizontal wire 81B is connected to a different point on the vertical wire 81A.

[0014] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing functional blocks constituting the hybrid power generation unit 1 of this embodiment. In the vertical axis wave power generation device 100 of this embodiment, when subjected to waves, ocean currents, or tidal currents, the long floating body section 102, which also serves as the device main body case, tilts (the longitudinal direction of the floating body section 102 tilts from the vertical direction), causing the rotating section of the power generation mechanism section 110 located inside the floating body section 102 to rotate around the axis of the power generation rotating shaft section, thereby generating electricity.

[0015] In the vertical axis type wave power generator 100, for example, a wireless communication device 121 including a wireless communication antenna, a light emitting device 122 configured with an LED or the like, and the like are installed in the upper interior portion of the floating body section 102 (preferably at a position above the sea surface S). Furthermore, a predetermined number of control units 123, control batteries 124 electrically connected to the control units 123, water ingress sensors 125 for detecting water or seawater that has infiltrated into the floating body section 102, and the like are also installed inside the floating body section 102. The water ingress sensors 125 are preferably located near the lower end (towards the bottom) of the floating body section 102.

[0016] In the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 of this embodiment, the power generation mechanism 110, the wireless communication device 121, the light-emitting device 122, the control battery 124, and the flood sensor 125 are each electrically connected to the control unit 123 via an internal conductive cable 126. In order to extract the electric power generated by the power generation mechanism 110 to the outside of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100, the power generation mechanism 110 and the connecting unit 150 are also connected by the internal conductive cable 126. In order to store the electric power generated by the power generation mechanism 110 in the control battery 124, the power generation mechanism 110 and the control battery 124 are also connected by the internal conductive cable 126.

[0017] At the connecting portion 150 of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100, the internal conductive cable 126 and the external power transmission cable 151 are detachably connected by a connector. In the example of Fig. 2, the connecting portion 150 is provided at the lower end (bottom) in the longitudinal direction of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100, but the connecting portion 150 may be provided at another location, such as the upper end (top) in the longitudinal direction of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100. In particular, when the connecting portion 150 is provided at the upper end (top) in the longitudinal direction of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100, the connecting portion 150 is positioned above sea level, making it less likely for water to seep in through the connecting portion 150 and improving the waterproofness of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100.

[0018] The connecting part 150 of the vertical-axis type wave power generator 100 can use a power extraction mechanism with a built-in slip ring 155. Specifically, the connecting part 150 and the slip ring 155 are joined and fixed with a predetermined number of fixing screws. In this case, even if the floating body part 102 of the vertical-axis type wave power generator 100 rotates around its axis (around the central axis extending in the longitudinal direction), it is possible to significantly reduce stress such as twisting in the power transmission cable 151 and the connecting wire 81A connected to the vertical-axis type wave power generator 100.

[0019] The vertical-axis wave power generator 100 has a detachable swivel 152 attached to a base 150a provided on the connecting portion 150. The swivel 152 is a connecting portion or connecting member having two connection points that allow free rotation relative to each other. The vertical-axis wave power generator 100 of this embodiment may be moored to a predetermined mooring means by a vertical wire 81A attached to the connecting portion 150 via the swivel 152. In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, an underwater structure such as a fishing reef 85 is attached to the lower end of the vertical wire 81A. In this way, the hybrid power generation unit 1 may be used in combination with an underwater structure unrelated to power generation. Such an underwater structure may also function as an external mooring portion.

[0020] The connecting portion 150, the nozzle portion 150a, the detachable swivel 152, etc. preferably have a predetermined strength and rust resistance, and are preferably made of a metal material such as stainless steel, titanium, or iron with a rust-proof coating.

[0021] The vertical-axis wave power generator 100 is connected to external facilities such as large-capacity storage battery means and an onshore monitoring center via a power transmission cable 151. In this case, a PLC adapter possessed by the submersible rotary power generator 200 described below may be provided inside the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 in the same manner as the submersible rotary power generator 200. In this case, the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 can perform PLC (power line communication) via the power transmission cable 151 with external facilities such as large-capacity storage battery means and an onshore monitoring center that have a PLC adapter.

[0022] In the underwater rotary power generating device 200 of this embodiment, a predetermined number of fins 203, which are blades, equal to or greater than one, are provided on a housing 202, which is the device main body case. The housing 202 is oriented such that the axial direction of the housing is oriented in the direction along the fluid flow (substantially horizontal), and the fins 203 are subjected to the fluid flow (ocean current or tidal current), causing the housing 202 to rotate about its axis. As the housing 202 rotates about its axis, a rotating part of a power generating mechanism 210 provided inside the housing 202 rotates about the axis of the power generating rotating shaft, generating power.

[0023] A predetermined number of components are provided inside the housing 202 of the submersible rotary power generating device 200, including a power generation mechanism 210, a control unit 223, a control battery 224 electrically connected to the control unit 223, and water intrusion sensors 225. The water intrusion sensors 225 are preferably disposed near the bottom of the housing 202 of the submersible rotary power generating device 200, and in the illustrated example, the water intrusion sensors 225 are installed in three locations: the front end (left side in FIG. 2), the center, and the rear end (right side in FIG. 2) of the housing 202. By arranging the water intrusion sensors 225 in this manner, water intrusion can be quickly detected even if the submersible rotary power generating device 200 is positioned in the sea with the rear end side facing up or the rear end side facing up.

[0024] The submersible rotary power generating device 200 of this embodiment is provided with a PLC (Power Line Communication) adapter 227 between the control unit 223 and the internal conductive cable 226. This PLC adapter 227 is capable of performing bidirectional wired communication with an external facility located outside the submersible rotary power generating device 200 (for example, a facility where the power storage means is located) via the internal conductive cable 226 and the power transmission cable 251.

[0025] Generally, since the submersible rotary power generating device 200 is placed underwater (underwater), it is difficult to communicate wirelessly with external facilities. In this embodiment, PLC (power line communication) allows wired communication by superimposing a high-frequency communication signal onto an existing power line (power transmission cable 251) that supplies electrical energy and transmitting the signal. This allows the power line to also be used as a communication cable. Even with the submersible rotary power generating device 200, which has difficulty in wireless communication, signals from the power generation mechanism 210, control unit 223, control battery 224, flood sensor 225, and other components within the submersible rotary power generating device 200 can be transmitted via the PLC adapter 227 to external facilities such as a monitoring center on land. For example, the results of failure diagnoses of the power generation mechanism 210, control unit 223, control battery 224, flood sensor 225, and other components within the submersible rotary power generating device 200, as well as the results of flood detection by the flood sensor 225, can be reported to external facilities such as a monitoring center on land. In addition, a control signal such as an instruction signal to stop power generation by the power generation mechanism section 210 can be sent to the control unit 223 inside the underwater rotary power generation device 200 from an external facility such as a monitoring center on land.

[0026] The communication distance of PLC (power line communication) is approximately 200 m from one PLC adapter 227 to the next. However, by placing PLC adapters at predetermined intervals on the power transmission cable 251, the communication distance can be extended to approximately 2 km. There are two standards for PLC: low-speed PLC, which uses frequencies of 450 kHz or less, and high-speed PLC, which uses frequencies from 2 to 30 MHz. In this embodiment, low-speed PLC is preferred. When frequencies from 10 kHz to 450 kHz are used, the data communication speed is approximately 9600 bps.

[0027] The presence of a slip ring 155 in part of the power transmission path of the underwater rotary power generating device 200 makes it easy for noise to occur in the PLC. However, the occurrence of noise caused by the slip ring 155 depends on the rotation state of the underwater rotary power generating device 200, so there are also time periods when the noise is small and communication is sufficient. Therefore, it is preferable for the control unit 223 to continue transmitting the desired signal or information multiple times, either continuously or intermittently, until it has successfully completed transmission.

[0028] The power generation mechanism 210, the flood sensor 225, and the control battery 224 are each electrically connected to the control unit 223 via an internal conductive cable 226. In order to extract the electric power generated by the power generation mechanism 210 to the outside of the submersible rotary power generation device 200, the power generation mechanism 210 and the connecting part 250 are connected by the internal conductive cable 226. In addition, in order to store the electric power generated by the power generation mechanism 210 in the control battery 224, the power generation mechanism 210 and the control battery 224 are connected by the internal conductive cable 226.

[0029] The internal conductive cable 226 of the underwater rotary power generating device 200 is electrically connected to a power transmission cable 251 located outside the underwater rotary power generating device 200 via a connecting part 250 attached to a bearing of the housing part 202. With this structure, even if the fins 203 of the underwater rotary power generating device 200 are affected by ocean currents or tidal currents and the housing part 202 rotates, the connecting part 250 does not rotate, and the two-core waterproof conductive cable (power transmission cable 251) connected to the connecting part 250 is isolated from the rotation of the housing part 202. Therefore, the power transmission cable 251 will not be twisted or broken even when the housing part 202 rotates.

[0030] Furthermore, it is possible that the power generation mechanism 210 rotates around the axis of the housing 202 inside the housing 202, or that the power transmission cable 251 rotates around the cable axis. For this reason, a slip ring 255 is provided in the connecting portion 250 of this embodiment.

[0031] Electric power generated by the power generation mechanism unit 210 provided inside the submersible rotary power generating device 200 can be extracted from the submersible rotary power generating device 200 via the internal conductive cable 226 and the connecting unit 250, and transmitted to a power transmission cable 251 outside the submersible rotary power generating device 200. The power transmission cable 251, which comes out near the base unit 250a of the submersible rotary power generating device, extends to an external large-capacity storage battery means or the like via a part of a detachable swivel 152 provided on the horizontal wire 81B, and is finally detachably connected to the large-capacity storage battery means. As a result, the electric power generated by the submersible rotary power generating device 200 can be charged into the large-capacity storage battery means or the like.

[0032] The power transmission cable 251 of the submersible rotary power generating device 200 and the power transmission cable 151 of the vertical axis wave power generator 100 are each connected to, for example, large-capacity storage battery means installed at locations separated by a predetermined distance. Also, the power transmission cable 251 of the submersible rotary power generating device 200 and the power transmission cable 151 of the vertical axis wave power generator 100 may be joined midway to form a single power transmission cable. In this case, the overall length of the power transmission cable can be shortened, and the number of connections on the large-capacity storage battery means side can be reduced.

[0033] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the power transmission cable 251 is connected to the connecting portion 250 to which the horizontal wires 81B are connected, and power generated by the power generation mechanism portion 210 of the submersible rotary power generating device 200 is extracted. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the power transmission cable 251 may be connected to a location other than the connecting portion 250 to which the horizontal wires 81B are connected, such as the rear end portion of the housing portion 202 as shown in FIG. 3. In this case, for example, a second connecting portion 252 and a slip ring 255 are provided at the rear end portion of the housing portion 202, and the power transmission cable 251 is connected thereto. With this configuration, the slip ring 255 is located on the opposite side from the surface that receives ocean currents and tidal currents (the tip end portion of the housing portion 202). This prevents water from seeping in through the slip ring 255, improving the waterproofness of the submersible rotary power generating device 200.

[0034] Next, the power generation mechanism section 110 of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100 in this embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the power generation mechanism part 110 of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100. As shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the power generation mechanism part 110 at the lower end side in the longitudinal direction of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100. As shown in FIG. The power generation mechanism 110 of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100 in this embodiment is mainly composed of a rotating part 130 and a power generation part 140 that are arranged inside the cylindrical floating body part 102. The power generation mechanism 110 in this embodiment is configured so that the power generation part 140 generates electricity when the rotating part 130 rotates around the axis of the power generation rotating shaft part that is supported by the frame part 103 fixed to the floating body part 102.

[0035] The floating body section 102 in this embodiment is configured such that, for example, the end face of a cylindrical case having a cylindrical shape (hollow columnar shape) is sealed with a lid. The floating body section 102 provides buoyancy to the vertical axis wave power generation device 100 on the sea (offshore), and is floated on the sea surface. The rotating section 130 and the power generation section 140 are arranged in the internal space of the cylindrical case, and the end face of the cylindrical case is sealed with a lid to prevent seawater from entering. The dimensions of the floating body section 102 are selected appropriately. There are no particular limitations on the shape of the floating body section 102 as long as it is an elongated shape, and it may not be cylindrical, but may be rectangular, oval, or some other elongated shape.

[0036] The cylindrical case of the floating body unit 102 is a transparent member (light-transmitting member) that allows light to pass from the inside of the cylindrical case to the outside and allows light from the outside to pass into the cylindrical case. This allows light from the light-emitting device 122 inside the cylindrical case to be transmitted and emitted to the outside. Furthermore, for example, if a solar power generation unit (photovoltaic power generation unit) is arranged inside the cylindrical case, it is possible to generate electricity by irradiating the solar power generation unit with external light. Furthermore, because the cylindrical case is a transparent member, the rotating unit 130 and the power generation unit 140 arranged inside the cylindrical case can be seen from the outside, and the state of the rotating unit 130 and the power generation unit 140 can be confirmed from the outside.

[0037] The cylindrical case of the floating body 102 can be made of a resin material such as transparent polycarbonate or hard polyvinyl chloride. The cylindrical case can also be made of a metal material such as stainless steel, aluminum, or aluminum alloy. When made of a metal material, it is difficult to ensure transparency, but it reflects electromagnetic waves, making it easier to detect on radar, etc., which is beneficial in terms of preventing danger.

[0038] As shown in Fig. 5, a first rotating shaft 104 extends from the frame 103 at the lower end of the floating body 102 in the longitudinal direction. The first rotating shaft 104 is arranged coaxially with the cylindrical central axis of the cylindrical case of the floating body 102 (the axis of the floating body 102). More specifically, the frame 103 is provided with a bearing 103a that rotatably supports the first rotating shaft 104. This allows the first rotating shaft 104 to rotate about its axis (about the axis of the floating body 102) relative to the frame 103 fixed to the floating body 102. The first rotating shaft 104 is fixed to a first frame 131A at the lower end of the rotating part 130, and rotates together with the rotating part 130 about the axis of the floating body 102.

[0039] 4, the frame portion 103 of the floating body portion 102 is provided with a second rotating shaft portion 105 that is arranged coaxially with the cylindrical central axis of the cylindrical case of the floating body portion 102 (the axis of the floating body portion 102). More specifically, the second rotating shaft portion 105 is fixed to the frame portion 103 by an axis fixing portion 105a. The second rotating shaft portion 105 is rotatably supported by the upper end side first frame 131B of the rotating portion 130 via a bearing portion 131a. Therefore, the second rotating shaft portion 105 is integrally configured with the floating body portion 102 and the frame portion 103, and rotates relative to the rotating portion 130 as the rotating portion 130 rotates about the axis of the floating body portion 102.

[0040] The power-generating rotating shaft portion of this embodiment is composed of a first rotating shaft portion 104 and a second rotating shaft portion 105. The rotating portion 130 is configured to rotate around the axes of the first rotating shaft portion 104 and the second rotating shaft portion 105 (around the axis of the floating body portion 102) inside the cylindrical case of the floating body portion 102.

[0041] More specifically, the rotating unit 130 includes a lower-side first frame 131A to which a first rotating shaft 104, which is rotatably supported by a bearing 103a of the frame unit 103, is fixed, and an upper-side first frame 131B to which a second rotating shaft 105 is rotatably supported via the bearing 131a. The two first frames 131A and 131B are connected to each other by four second frames 132A to 132D. Note that, for the sake of explanation, one of the four second frames 132A to 132D, second frame 132D, is not shown in FIG. 4.

[0042] The rotating part 130 also includes a weight member 133. The weight member 133 is a block that is long in the axial direction of the floating body part 102, and legs 133a extending from each longitudinal end are fixed to a lower-end first frame 131A and an upper-end first frame 131B of the rotating part 130. Therefore, the weight member 133, together with the first frames 131A, 131B and second frames 132A to 132D, is configured to be rotatable around the axes of the first rotating shaft 104 and the second rotating shaft 105 (around the axis of the floating body part 102).

[0043] The power generating unit 140 generates electric power from the rotational force (rotational force or swinging force) of the rotating unit 130. The power generating unit 140 of this embodiment includes a power generating rotation shaft 141, a large bevel gear 142, two small bevel gears 143A and 143B, a first large spur gear 144, a first small spur gear 145A and a second large spur gear 145B, a second small spur gear 146A and a third large spur gear 146B, a generator 148, and a flywheel 149.

[0044] The power-generating rotation shaft 141 is rotatably supported via bearings between second frames 132B, 132D of the rotating section 130. The large bevel gear 142 is fixed to the tip (lower end) of the second rotation shaft section 105, which is fixed to the frame section 103 of the floating body section 102. The two small bevel gears 143A, 143B are each attached to the power-generating rotation shaft 141 via a one-way clutch. The two small bevel gears 143A, 143B are arranged so as to mesh with the large bevel gear 142 that faces it in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the power-generating rotation shaft 141.

[0045] In this embodiment, as will be described later, when the floating body section 102 tilts due to the force of waves and the force of ocean currents or tidal currents (when the axis of the floating body section 102 tilts relative to the vertical direction), the rotating section 130 rotates around the axis of the second rotating shaft section 105 (around the axis of the floating body section 102) in a direction in which the weight member 133 aims for the lowest point. As a result, the power-generating rotating shaft 141 supported by the second frames 132B, 132D of the rotating section 130 rotates around the axis of the second rotating shaft section 105, and the two small bevel gears 143A, 143B meshing with the large bevel gear 142 on the second rotating shaft section 105 rotate (revolve) around the large bevel gear 142 while rotating (spinning) around their own axes.

[0046] When the rotating unit 130 swings around the axis of the second rotating shaft unit 105 and performs pendulum motion, the two small bevel gears 143A, 143B repeatedly rotate (revolve) in the forward and reverse directions around the large bevel gear 142. In this embodiment, the two small bevel gears 143A, 143B are attached to the generator rotating shaft 141 via a one-way clutch that serves as a one-way rotation transmission unit that transmits only rotational forces in opposite directions. As a result, the rotational force generated when the two small bevel gears 143A, 143B rotate (revolve) in the forward direction around the large bevel gear 142 causes the first small bevel gear 143A to rotate (spin) in the forward direction on its axis via the first one-way clutch, thereby causing the generator rotating shaft 141 to rotate in the specified direction. At this time, the second small bevel gear 143B also rotates (spins) in the forward direction, but the rotational force of the second small bevel gear 143B is not transmitted to the generator rotation shaft 141 due to the second one-way clutch, so the second small bevel gear 143B rotates freely.

[0047] On the other hand, the rotational force generated when the two small bevel gears 143A, 143B rotate (revolve) in the reverse direction around the large bevel gear 142 causes the second small bevel gear 143B to rotate (spin) on its axis in the reverse direction via the second one-way clutch. As a result, the power-generation rotation shaft 141 rotates in the same specified direction as when the two small bevel gears 143A, 143B rotate (revolve) in the forward direction around the large bevel gear 142. At this time, the first small bevel gear 143A also rotates (spins) on its axis in the reverse direction, but the rotational force of the first small bevel gear 143A is not transmitted to the power-generation rotation shaft 141 due to the first one-way clutch, so the first small bevel gear 143A spins freely.

[0048] There are no particular restrictions on the gear ratio (gear ratio) between the large bevel gear 142 and the small bevel gears 143A and 143B, but by using a large bevel gear on the input side and small bevel gears on the output side as in this embodiment, the rotational speed of the power generation rotating shaft 141 can be increased, improving power generation efficiency. The one-way rotation transmitting portion may employ a configuration other than a one-way clutch, such as a ratchet mechanism.

[0049] A first large spur gear 144 is fixed to one end of the generator rotation shaft 141, and a first small spur gear 145A is meshed with the first large spur gear 144. The first small spur gear 145A is fixed to one end of a first gear shaft, which is rotatably supported via a bearing between the second frames 132B and 132D of the rotating unit 130. A second large spur gear 145B is fixed to the other end of this first gear shaft. A second small spur gear 146A is meshed with the second large spur gear 145B. The second small spur gear 146A is fixed to one end of a second gear shaft, which is rotatably supported via a bearing between the second frames 132B and 132D of the rotating unit 130. A third large spur gear 146B is fixed to the other end of this second gear shaft. The third large spur gear 146B meshes with an input gear 148a, which is fixed on the input shaft of the generator 148.

[0050] With the above configuration, when the power-generating rotating shaft 141 rotates in a specified direction, the input shaft of the generator 148 rotates in the specified direction via the first large spur gear 144, the first small spur gear 145A, the second large spur gear 145B, the second small gear 146A, and the third large spur gear 146B. This causes the rotor of the generator 148 to rotate, generating electric power, which is then output from the generator 148.

[0051] In this embodiment, when a rotational force (swinging force) that repeatedly rotates in a forward and reverse direction is input to the power generating unit 140, both the rotational force during forward rotation and the rotational force during reverse rotation are input to the generator 148 as rotational forces that rotate the power generating rotation shaft 141 in a fixed direction (prescribed direction). If the rotating unit 130 were configured to be directly connected to the generator 148, the power generating rotation shaft 141 of the generator 148 would repeatedly rotate in a forward and reverse direction in a sinusoidal manner, just like the oscillation (pendulum motion) of the rotating unit 130. In such a case, there is a large loss of kinetic energy due to acceleration and deceleration of the power generating rotation shaft 141 when switching between forward and reverse rotation, resulting in a significant drop in power generation efficiency. In contrast to this, as in this embodiment, if the power generating rotation shaft 141 of the generator 148 is configured to rotate in a fixed direction (specified direction) regardless of whether a rotational force in the forward or reverse direction of the swing (pendulum motion) of the rotating part 130 is input, the power generating rotation shaft 141 does not switch between forward and reverse rotation, and the loss of kinetic energy due to acceleration and deceleration at the time of switching can be avoided, thereby significantly improving power generation efficiency.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a flywheel 149 is attached to the input shaft of the generator 148. By providing the flywheel 149, when the rotation speed of the generator 148 decreases, the kinetic energy stored in the flywheel 149 can keep the generator 148 rotating. This makes it possible to smooth the rotation speed of the generator 148 and improve power generation efficiency. Note that it is advantageous to install the flywheel 149 closer to the generator 148 on the transmission path of the rotation force (swinging force), as this allows the flywheel 149 to be lighter.

[0053] In conventional wave power generation devices (fluid power generation devices), the movement of waves on the sea surface S causes the floating body to rotate (swing) around a horizontal axis (around a horizontal axis perpendicular to the direction of wave travel), causing the rotating body to rotate around the axis of the rotating shaft supported on the floating body, and the power generation unit generates electricity. However, in conventional wave power generation devices, the floating body floating on the sea surface generally rotates (swings) around a horizontal axis to follow the inclination angle of the sea surface S, which fluctuates due to the movement of the waves. As a result, for example, with small waves, the change in the inclination angle of the sea surface S may be too small, or depending on the wave movement, the rotation of the floating body may not be able to properly follow the change in the inclination angle of the sea surface S, and the floating body may not be able to rotate sufficiently around the horizontal axis. In addition, due to factors such as the weight balance of the rotating part around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft part, the floating part may remain near a specific rotation position around the horizontal axis (the floating part may remain in a tilted position and not rotate), and the floating part may not be able to rotate (swing) sufficiently around the horizontal axis.

[0054] FIG. 6(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the posture of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100 in which the longitudinal direction of the floating body part 102 floating on the sea surface S is oriented in the substantially vertical direction. FIG. 6(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the posture of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100 in which the longitudinal direction of the floating body part 102 floating on the sea surface S is tilted from the substantially vertical direction. In the vertical axis type wave power generator 100 of this embodiment, the floating body section 102 has an elongated shape, and the second rotating shaft section 105, which is a rotating shaft section for power generation, is supported by the floating body section 102 so as to extend in the longitudinal direction (axial direction O) of the floating body section 102. In this embodiment, as shown in Figures 6(a) and (b), a power generation mechanism section 110 including a rotating section 130 and a power generation section 140 is disposed near the lower end in the longitudinal direction inside the elongated floating body section 102.

[0055] With this configuration, the power generation mechanism 110 including the rotating part 130 and the power generation part 140 functions as a weight part, and when the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 is not subjected to the force of waves, ocean currents, or the like, it assumes a posture (hereinafter referred to as a "vertical posture") in which the longitudinal direction (axial direction O) of the floating body part 102 is oriented in a substantially vertical direction, as shown in Fig. 6(a). In this embodiment, among the components of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100, the power generation mechanism 110 including heavy objects such as the weight member 133 and the generator 148 mainly functions as a weight part, but other components (such as the control unit 123 and the control battery 124) may also be disposed near the lower end of the long floating body part 102 in the longitudinal direction and used as a weight part.

[0056] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6( a), a portion of the long, vertically oriented floating body 102 (more than half of the floating body 102 at its longitudinal lower end) is located in the sea (underwater). Therefore, the force F1 of ocean currents and tidal currents is received by the side surface of the cylindrical case of the floating body 102. At this time, the weight of the weight units (such as the power generation mechanism 110) located below the sea surface S, i.e., the portion near the lower end of the floating body 102, is less likely to move due to inertia even when subjected to the force F1 of ocean currents and tidal currents. In contrast, the underwater portion of the floating body 102 where the weight units (such as the power generation mechanism 110) are not located is more likely to move when subjected to the force F1 of ocean currents and tidal currents than the weight units. As a result, the long floating body section 102, which is in a vertical position, is subjected to the force F1 of ocean currents and tidal currents, which generates a rotational moment R around the horizontal axis passing through the weight section (power generation mechanism section 110, etc.), causing the floating body section 102 to change from the vertical position shown in Figure 6(a) to the inclined position shown in Figure 6(b).

[0057] Furthermore, fluid flows such as ocean currents and tidal currents usually have stronger momentum at shallower depths (closer to the sea surface S). Therefore, the fluid force F1 acting on the floating body portion located above the weight portion (such as the power generation mechanism portion 110) is greater than the force F1 of ocean currents and tidal currents acting on the weight portion, and the magnitude of this fluid force F1 increases the farther away from the weight portion. In this way, the force F1 of ocean currents and tidal currents acting on the floating body portion 120 increases the farther away from the weight portion, which is the center of the rotational moment R, so a larger rotational moment R is generated in the floating body portion 120, allowing the floating body portion 102 to assume a significantly tilted attitude.

[0058] On the other hand, the side surfaces of the cylindrical case of the long floating body 102 are subjected to equal water pressure from all directions. Therefore, when the force of ocean currents or tidal currents weakens, the floating body 102, which has become tilted, tries to return to a vertical position due to the equal water pressure from all directions. As a result, a rotational moment is generated in the tilted floating body 102 in a direction returning it to a vertical position. In addition, when the direction of ocean currents or tidal currents changes, a rotational moment is generated in the tilted floating body 102 in a direction returning it to a vertical position.

[0059] As described above, in this embodiment, changes in the force and direction of ocean currents and tidal currents allow the floating body 102 to rotate (swing) largely around a horizontal axis passing through the weight section (the power generation mechanism 110, etc.). This causes the rotating section 130 to rotate (swing) largely around the axis of the second rotating shaft 105, which is the power generation rotating shaft, promoting power generation in the power generation section 140 and contributing to stable power generation.

[0060] In particular, in this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 6( a) and 6(b), the longitudinal upper end of the floating body section 102 is located above the sea surface S. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 6(b), the longitudinal upper end of the floating body section 102 can receive the force F2 of waves traveling on the sea surface S and the force F3 of wind blowing on the sea surface S. Therefore, not only the force F1 of ocean currents and tidal currents but also the force F2 of waves (or ocean waves) and the force F3 of wind can be utilized to generate a rotational moment R around a horizontal axis passing through the weight section (the power generation mechanism section 110, etc.) in the floating body section 102, thereby causing the floating body section 102 to assume an inclined attitude. Moreover, since the longitudinal upper end of the floating body section 102 that receives the force F2 of waves and the force F3 of wind is the farthest from the weight section (the power generation mechanism section 110, etc.), the rotational moment R generated by the force F2 of waves and the force F3 of wind is large.

[0061] In this embodiment, as long as the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 is configured to assume a vertical posture when not subjected to wave force F, ocean current force, or the like, the weight unit (the power generation mechanism unit 110, etc.) does not necessarily have to be disposed at or near the lower end in the longitudinal direction inside the floating body unit 102. Therefore, the weight unit (the power generation mechanism unit 110, etc.) may be disposed near the center in the longitudinal direction or near the upper end inside the floating body unit 102. However, since the weight unit (the power generation mechanism unit 110, etc.) can become the center of rotation of the rotational moment R that causes the floating body unit 102 to assume an inclined posture, a larger rotational moment R can be generated by disposing the weight unit (the power generation mechanism unit 110, etc.) at or near the lower end in the longitudinal direction inside the floating body unit 102.

[0062] Next, the power generation mechanism section 210 of the underwater rotary power generation device 200 in this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the power generation mechanism 210 of the submersible rotary power generation device 200 has the same configuration as the power generation mechanism 110 of the vertical axis wave power generation device 100. Therefore, in the following explanation, the power generation mechanism 210 of the submersible rotary power generation device 200 will be explained using the power generation mechanism 110 shown in Figures 4 and 5, and explanations that overlap with the power generation mechanism 110 of the vertical axis wave power generation device 100 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0063] The power generation mechanism 210 of the underwater rotary power generation device 200 in this embodiment is mainly composed of a rotating part 130 and a power generation part 140 that are arranged inside a cylindrical housing part 202 similar to the floating body part 102 described above. The power generation mechanism 210 of this embodiment is also designed so that the power generation part 140 generates electricity when the rotating part 130 rotates around the axis of the power generation rotating shaft part that is supported by the frame part 103 fixed to the housing part 202.

[0064] The housing 202 of this embodiment is configured such that, for example, an end face of a cylindrical case having a cylindrical shape (a hollow columnar shape) is sealed with a lid. The housing 202 contains air inside, which gives the underwater rotary power generating device 200 buoyancy on the sea (ocean), but due to the balance with the weight of the components of the underwater rotary power generating device 200, particularly the power generation mechanism unit 210 including the rotating unit 130 and the power generating unit 140, the underwater rotary power generating device 200 is configured to float in the sea.

[0065] The shape of the housing unit 202 of the underwater rotary power generating device 200 is not particularly limited as long as it is an elongated shape, and it may not be cylindrical, but may be rectangular, oval, tuna-shaped as shown in Fig. 7, or any other elongated shape. A connecting part 250 provided at one longitudinal end of the housing unit 202 is moored via a horizontal wire 81B to a vertical wire 81A attached to the longitudinal lower end of the vertical-axis wave power generating device 100. Therefore, when the housing unit 202 is subjected to a tidal current or ocean current, it assumes a posture in which the axial direction of the housing unit 202 (the cylindrical central axis of the cylindrical case of the housing unit 202) is aligned with the direction of the tidal current or ocean current, i.e., a horizontal posture in which the axial direction of the housing unit 202 is approximately horizontal.

[0066] In particular, in this embodiment, in order to make it easier for the housing part 202 to assume a horizontal position, the heavy power generation mechanism part 210 is disposed near the longitudinal center of the housing part 202, as shown in Fig. 8. This achieves a balance between the center of gravity of the underwater rotary power generation device 200 and the buoyancy of the housing part 202, allowing the housing part 202 to assume a horizontal position even in a situation where it is not affected by tidal or ocean currents.

[0067] As described above, the underwater rotary power generating device 200 in this embodiment is provided with fins 203 provided on the housing part 202. As a result, the fins 203 are subjected to ocean currents and tidal currents, causing the housing part 202 to rotate around its axis.

[0068] When the housing portion 202 rotates about its axis, the frame portion 103 fixed to the housing portion 202 also rotates about the axis of the housing portion 202. A second rotating shaft portion 105 disposed on the axis of the housing portion 202 is fixed to the frame portion 103. Therefore, when the housing portion 202 rotates about its axis, the second rotating shaft portion 105 rotates about the axis of the housing portion 202.

[0069] On the other hand, as described above, the rotating part 130 provided in the power generation mechanism part 210 of the underwater rotary power generation device 200 is configured to rotate (relatively rotate) around the axis of the first rotating shaft part 104 and the second rotating shaft part 105 (around the axis of the housing part 202) inside the cylindrical case of the housing part 202. In the underwater rotary power generation device 200, the axial directions of the first rotating shaft part 104 and the second rotating shaft part 105 are substantially horizontal, so the weight member 133 of the rotating part 130 tends to always remain in the lowest position. Therefore, even if the fin 203 is subjected to the force of ocean currents or tidal currents and the housing part 202 rotates around the axis, the rotating part 130 remains stationary with the weight member 133 remaining in the lowest position.

[0070] Therefore, when the fin 203 is subjected to the force of ocean currents or tidal currents and the housing portion 202 rotates about its axis, the second rotating shaft portion 105 rotates about the axis of the housing portion 202 relative to the stationary rotating portion 130. As a result, the large bevel gear 142 on the second rotating shaft portion 105 rotates, causing the two small bevel gears 143A and 143B meshing with the large bevel gear 142 to rotate about their axes (spin). This causes the power-generating rotating shaft 141, to which the two small bevel gears 143A and 143B are attached, to rotate about its axis in a specified direction, and the input shaft of the generator 148 rotates in a specified direction via the first large spur gear 144, the first small spur gear 145A, the second large spur gear 145B, the second small spur gear 146A, and the third large spur gear 146B. The rotor of the generator 148 then rotates, generating electric power, which is then output from the generator 148.

[0071] Here, as a power generating device that utilizes the rotational force generated when the housing unit 202 rotates around its axis in response to ocean currents or tidal currents at the fins 203, it is conceivable to arrange a rotating unit and a power generating unit that generates electricity by the rotation of the rotating unit on the mooring unit side outside the housing unit 202, for example. In this case, a rotational force transmission mechanism (such as a universal joint) for transmitting the rotational force of the housing unit 202 to the external rotating unit needs to be provided in the connecting unit 250 that connects the housing unit 202 to the external mooring unit. However, a large tensile force acts on the connecting unit 250 when it is pulled by the fins 203 and the housing unit 202 that are subjected to ocean currents or tidal currents. Therefore, if a rotational force transmission mechanism is provided in the connecting unit 250 that receives such tensile force, there is a risk that the rotational force transmission mechanism will be damaged.

[0072] In this embodiment, the rotating section 130 and the power generating section 140 provided in the power generating mechanism section 210 of the underwater rotary power generating device 200 are arranged inside the housing section 202. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide the connecting section 250 of the housing section 202 with a torque transmission mechanism (such as a universal joint) for transmitting the torque of the housing section 202. Therefore, it is possible to avoid damage to the torque transmission mechanism provided in the connecting section 250, which can contribute to stable power generation.

[0073] Next, the slip rings used in the vertical axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200 will be described. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the slip ring 255 used in the underwater rotary power generating device 200. The slip ring 155 used in the vertical axis wave power generator 100 has the same basic configuration as the slip ring 255 of the submersible rotary power generator 200, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0074] In the vertical axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200, relative rotational motion can occur between the power generation mechanism 110, 210 and the power transmission cable 151, 251. Therefore, in order to extract the electric power generated by the power generation mechanism 110, 210 through the power transmission cable 151, 251, slip rings (sliding electrodes) 155, 255 are provided between the power generation mechanism 110, 210 and the power transmission cable 151, 251.

[0075] 9, a connector 256 for ensuring electrical connection between the inside and outside of the housing 202 is attached via bearings 202a to the housing 202, which is the device casing of the underwater rotary power generating device 200. The connector 256 has a pair of internal terminals provided on the inside of the housing 202 and a pair of external terminals provided on the outside of the housing 202. A pair of waterproof internal connectors 226a of the internal conductive cable 226 are detachably connected to the internal terminals.

[0076] The internal conductive cable 126 to which one of the pair of waterproof internal connectors 226a is attached is connected to the negative electrode (ground electrode) of the power generation mechanism 210. The internal conductive cable 126 to which the other of the pair of waterproof internal connectors 226a is attached is connected to the positive electrode of the power generation mechanism 210, and is provided with a backflow prevention diode 226b. This backflow prevention diode 226b enables the power generated by the power generation mechanism 210 to be transmitted to the outside, while preventing the backflow of power from the outside.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 9 , the connector 256 includes a slip ring housing 255a, which houses the slip ring 255 therein. The slip ring housing 255a is secured to the connector 256 via a waterproof packing 257 and a predetermined number of fastening screws 258. A slip ring housing space is provided inside the slip ring housing 255a. The slip ring housing space has an opening with a predetermined diameter on the side facing the connector 256, and a through hole 255b, which has a smaller diameter than the opening, penetrates to the tip of the slip ring housing 255a on the opposite side of the opening. The diameter of the through hole 255b is sufficiently smaller than the outer diameter of the retaining plate 255c, allowing the two-core waterproof conductive cable (power transmission cable 251) to pass through. The retaining plate 255c functions to prevent the slip ring 255 from coming off the through hole 255b even when tension is applied to the waterproof conductive cable (power transmission cable 251).

[0078] Further, a pair of connection terminals 259 are provided in the slip ring storage space within the slip ring storage unit 255a, and are detachably connected to a pair of external terminals provided on the connector 256. A conductive sliding brush 255d is connected to each of the connection terminals 259. The conductive sliding brush 255d is urged toward the stator 255e of the slip ring 255 by elastic force, and comes into sliding contact with each of the electrode rings 255f provided on the stator 255e. A two-core waterproof conductive cable (power transmission cable 251) is attached to the stator 255e, and each core of the power transmission cable 251 is electrically connected and fixed by soldering or the like from inside the stator 255e to each of the pair of electrode rings 255f provided on the outer peripheral surface of the stator 255e.

[0079] A fitting hole into which a spindle 256a provided on the connector 256 fits is provided inside the stator 255e. This allows relative rotation around the axis of the spindle 256a between the stator 255e of the slip ring 255 and the connector 256. Therefore, even if an incident occurs in which the power generation mechanism 210 rotates around the axis of the housing 202 inside the housing 202 or the power transmission cable 251 rotates around the cable axis, the power transmission cable 251 is not twisted and an electrical connection is ensured.

[0080] 9, the above-mentioned through-hole 255b is preferably a conical through-hole with a diameter on the retaining plate 255c side larger than the diameter on the tip side. The interior of the through-hole 255b is densely filled with a waterproof material such as grease. A waterproof seal 255g is provided at the opening on the tip side of the through-hole 255b to prevent water or seawater from entering the through-hole 255b. The waterproof seal 255g has a hole with a diameter that allows a waterproof conductive cable (power transmission cable 251) having two cores to pass through.

[0081] 9, a metal base 250a is provided at the tip of the slip ring housing 255a. A detachable swivel 152 (a connecting component having two connection points that allow free rotation relative to each other) is preferably attached to the base 250a. The submersible rotary power generator 200 is moored via the base 250a, the detachable swivel 152, and a horizontal wire 81B fixed to the swivel 152. The base 250a, slip ring housing 255a, connector 256, and fixing screw 258 preferably have a predetermined strength and rust resistance sufficient to withstand the force of ocean currents and tidal currents. For example, they are preferably made of a metal material such as stainless steel, titanium, or iron with an anti-rust coating.

[0082] The vertical-axis wave power generator 100 of this embodiment may also be provided with a position switching unit that switches the vertical position of the floating body unit 102 between a first position, which is a floating position, where the longitudinal upper end of the floating body unit 102 is located above the sea level S, and a second position, which is a sinking position, where the upper end of the floating body unit 102 is located below the sea level S. An automatic sinking mechanism using a ballast device or the like can be suitably used as this position switching unit.

[0083] 10(a) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the floating body section 102 is located in a floating position where the longitudinal upper end of the floating body section 102 is located above the sea surface S. FIG. 10(b) is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the floating body section 102 is located in a sunken position where the longitudinal upper end of the floating body section 102 is located below the sea surface S. Fig. 11(a) is an explanatory diagram showing the ballast device 160 when the floating body section 102 is in the floating position. Fig. 11(b) is an explanatory diagram showing the ballast device 160 when the floating body section 102 is in the sinking position. FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the ballast device 160. As shown in FIG.

[0084] 12, the ballast device 160 of this embodiment is mainly composed of a ballast tank 161, a piston 162, and a piston drive unit 163. The ballast tank 161 is disposed inside the floating body unit 102, and is formed with an inlet / outlet 161a that communicates with the outside of the floating body unit 102 and allows seawater to flow in and out. The ballast tank 161 also has an air hole 161b that communicates with the internal space of the floating body unit 102.

[0085] The piston 162 is disposed inside the ballast tank 161 and divides the interior of the ballast tank 161 into a water injection section 161c that communicates with the inlet / outlet 161a and an air section 161d that communicates with the air hole 161b. The piston 162 is attached to the end of a spiral rod 163a that extends from a piston drive section 163. When the piston drive section 163 rotates the spiral rod 163a about its axis, the spiral rod 163a advances and retreats relative to the ballast tank 161, and accordingly the piston 162 moves longitudinally inside the ballast tank 161. At this time, the outer periphery of the piston 162 slides against the inner wall of the ballast tank 161 while maintaining a sealed state.

[0086] The ballast tank 161 is also provided with a pair of limiter switch sensors 164a, 164b that detect the upper end position (the position at which seawater is poured into the ballast tank) and the lower end position (the position at which seawater is discharged from the ballast tank) of the piston 162. By controlling the position of the piston 162 based on the detection results of the limiter switch sensors 164a, 164b, it is possible to switch between a state in which seawater is poured into the ballast tank 161 and a state in which seawater is discharged from the ballast tank 161.

[0087] When seawater is discharged from the ballast tank 161, as shown in Fig. 11(a), the weight of the floating body part 102 of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100 decreases by the amount of seawater discharged, and as a result, the floating body part 102 can assume a floating position due to the buoyancy of the floating body part 102. On the other hand, when seawater is poured into the ballast tank 161, as shown in Fig. 11(b), the weight of the floating body part 102 of the vertical axis type wave power generator 100 increases by the amount of poured seawater. As a result, the weight balance with the buoyancy of the floating body part 102 allows the floating body part 102 to assume a sinking position.

[0088] In this embodiment, when the floating body section 102 assumes the floating position, a rotational moment R is generated in the floating body section 102 by utilizing the force F2 of waves traveling on the sea surface S and the force F3 of wind blowing on the sea surface S, thereby tilting the floating body section 102 and contributing to greater power generation. On the other hand, if the upper end of the floating body section 102 remains exposed above the sea surface S while at sea, the upper end of the floating body section 102 may be damaged by, for example, strong winds or large waves caused by a typhoon. In such a case, the ballast device 160 can position the floating body section 102 in the sinking position to prevent damage to the upper end of the floating body section 102. Then, after conditions such as strong winds or large waves improve, the ballast device 160 can position the floating body section 102 in the floating position again to generate greater power.

[0089] In this embodiment, the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200 may be appropriately equipped with devices, components, and the like according to the purpose. For example, the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200 may be equipped with various sensors such as a geomagnetic (azimuth) sensor, an acceleration sensor, a gyro sensor, and a GPS. When the movement and orientation of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200 of this embodiment are to be monitored from a remote location, it is preferable to equip them with the various sensors described above. Furthermore, by installing sensors that detect the status (such as operational abnormalities) of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200 and transmitting the sensor detection results (such as operational abnormality detection results) to an external location, the status of the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200 can be monitored and managed from a remote location.

[0090] Furthermore, in the vertical-axis wave power generator 100 of this embodiment, by disposing a light emitting device 122 inside the floating body section 102, the power generation status of the power generating section 140 can be easily visually confirmed from the outside. Furthermore, by configuring such a light emitting device 122 to emit light of a specific wavelength, it can also be used for the purpose of, for example, suppressing barnacles in the sea from attaching to the floating body section 102. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 6, a member 106 such as a fluorescent member or a reflective member may be installed on the outer wall surface of the floating body section 102 (near the upper end of the floating body section 102 located above the sea surface S).

[0091] The hybrid power generation unit 1 of this embodiment may be provided with devices, members, etc. other than the vertical-axis wave power generation device 100 and the submersible rotary power generation device 200. For example, in the hybrid power generation unit 1 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1 , an underwater structure such as a fishing reef 85 is attached to the lower end of the vertical wire 81A. In this way, the hybrid power generation unit 1 may be used in combination with an underwater structure unrelated to power generation. Furthermore, the underwater structure attached to the lower end of the vertical wire 81A in this way may also function as a weight part in the vertical-axis wave power generation device 100.

[0092] Furthermore, a solar panel may be provided as a solar power generation means in the hybrid power generation unit 1. The power generated by the solar panel may be output from the hybrid power generation unit 1 together with the power generated by the vertical axis wave power generation device 100, or may be output or used separately from the power generated by the vertical axis wave power generation device 100.

[0093] 1, a plurality of hybrid power generation units 1 are connected to each other by connectors 91 and used as a fluid power generation system 10 arranged offshore. As an example, the fluid power generation system 10 of this embodiment is a large-scale offshore power generation system in which the required number of hybrid power generation units 1 are arranged vertically and horizontally across an entire offshore area of ​​10 km x 10 km.

[0094] Electric power generated by each vertical-axis wave power generation device 100 and each submersible rotary power generation device 200 of each hybrid power generation unit 1 of the fluid power generation system 10 in this embodiment is stored in, for example, a power storage unit disposed on an offshore structure floating on the ocean or fixed to the seabed. As an example, the fluid power generation system 10 of this embodiment includes one or more power output units 302 on an onshore mooring device 300 that output electric power generated by each vertical-axis wave power generation device 100 and each submersible rotary power generation device 200 of each hybrid power generation unit 1, and a power storage unit 90a (battery) on an electric carrier 90 serving as an offshore structure is connected to this power output unit 302. This allows the power storage unit 90a storing electric power generated by each hybrid power generation unit 1 of the fluid power generation system 10 to be transported to another location (such as land) by the electric carrier 90.

[0095] Of course, the electric power generated by each hybrid power generation unit 1 of the fluid power generation system 10 in this embodiment may be transmitted to another location via a power transmission line such as a submarine power cable. However, as in this embodiment, by storing the generated electric power in the power storage unit 90a and transporting it to another location by the electric power carrier 90, advantages such as eliminating the need for substation equipment (power conditioners) and the costs of laying power transmission lines can be obtained. If there is another offshore structure (e.g., an offshore wind power generation system) equipped with existing power transmission equipment, the power output unit 302 of this fluid power generation system 10 may be connected to the other offshore structure, and the electric power generated by each hybrid power generation unit 1 of this fluid power generation system 10 may be transmitted using the power transmission equipment of the other offshore structure. There are no particular limitations on the method of transporting (transmitting) the electric power generated by each hybrid power generation unit 1 of this fluid power generation system 10 to another location, and any method may be employed.

[0096] Furthermore, the electric power generated by each hybrid power generation unit 1 of the fluid power generation system 10 in this embodiment may be used to generate next-generation energy such as hydrogen, and transported to another location in the form of next-generation energy. For example, a hydrogen generation unit (such as an electrolytic layer) that generates hydrogen by electrolyzing water (seawater) using the electric power generated by the fluid power generation system 10 may be connected to the power output unit 302 of the fluid power generation system 10. The hydrogen generated by this hydrogen generation unit may be transported to another location by, for example, a hydrogen carrier.

[0097] Furthermore, the electric power generated by each hybrid power generation unit 1 of the fluid power generation system 10 in this embodiment may be consumed in other offshore facilities (e.g., offshore wind power generation facilities, oil platforms, aquaculture facilities, etc.) without being stored. For example, the power output unit 302 of the fluid power generation system 10 may be connected to the offshore facility, and the electric power generated by the fluid power generation system 10 may be used as the electric power required to operate power consumption devices in the offshore facility.

[0098] The fluid power generation system 10 according to the present invention is not particularly limited in the number or arrangement of the hybrid power generation units 1 that constitute the fluid power generation system, and can be freely selected according to the purpose. Similarly, the hybrid power generation unit 1 according to the present invention is not particularly limited in the number or arrangement of the fluid power generation devices (vertical axis wave power generation devices 100 and submersible rotary power generation devices 200) that are provided in the hybrid power generation unit, and can be freely selected according to the purpose.

[0099] Next, a supplementary explanation will be given of the fluid power generation system 10, the hybrid power generation unit 1, and the vertical axis wave power generation device 100 and the submersible rotary power generation device 200, which are fluid power generation devices, in this embodiment.

[0100] First, an example of the power generation principles of the vertical axis wave power generation device 100 and the submersible rotary power generation device 200 will be described. Figure 13 shows a schematic diagram of the power generation principles of a vertical-axis wave power generator and a submersible rotary power generator. The left side of Figure 13 illustrates the power generation principle of a vertical-axis wave power generator, which generates power by tilting in response to waves. Specifically, the vertical-axis wave power generator contains a power generation motor fixed to the housing, a freely rotating shaft installed inside the housing, and a weight fixed integrally to the shaft. The shaft is supported by a pair of bearings installed in the housing. When the shaft rotates, the torque of the shaft rotates the rotor inside the power generation motor engaged with the shaft, and the power generation motor generates electricity. The power generation motor may be installed above or below the weight. With the upper part of the vertical-axis wave power generator protruding from the water surface, the vertical-axis wave power generator floats on the water surface. When waves of a certain height surge in, the vertical-axis wave power generator is tilted a certain amount by the force of the waves. As a result, the vertical axis wave power generator tilts, causing the weight to rotate and the rotating shaft that is integrally connected to the weight to rotate. As a result, the rotating shaft rotates the rotor inside the generator motor, and the generator motor generates electricity. The generated electricity is stored in a storage device (not shown).

[0101] The right side of Figure 13 illustrates the power generation principle of an underwater rotary power generator, which generates electricity by rotating under the tidal force of a tidal current. Specifically, the underwater rotary power generator includes a generator motor fixed to the housing, a freely rotatable rotating shaft provided inside the housing, and a weight fixed integrally to the rotating shaft. One or more predetermined number of fins are provided on the exterior of the housing. The rotating shaft is supported by a pair of bearings provided on the housing. When the housing and generator motor rotate, the stator inside the generator motor rotates, and the generator motor generates electricity. The generator motor can be attached to either the right or left side of the weight. The underwater rotary power generator is moored in a substantially horizontal position to a predetermined mooring means provided underwater. When a tidal current occurs in this state, the current hits the fins provided on the housing, causing the housing of the underwater rotary power generator to rotate due to the tidal force of the current. As a result, the housing of the vertical axis wave power generator and the stator on the motor side rotate, causing relative rotation between the rotor and stator inside the generator motor, which is stopped by a weight, causing the generator motor to generate electricity. The generated electricity is then stored in a storage device (not shown).

[0102] This is the principle by which vertical-axis wave power generators and submersible rotary power generators generate electricity. However, both vertical-axis wave power generators and submersible rotary power generators share a common technical challenge: the cost of the sinker. To generate sufficient power, vertical-axis wave power generators and submersible rotary power generators must be of a certain size. For example, if the housing is 10 m long and 4 m in diameter, the sinker must weigh between 1 and 2 tonnes. Generally, metals with high specific gravities are iron (7.9) and copper (9.0), with iron being the more cost-effective choice. However, even iron, when it comes to 1 or 2 tonnes, inevitably becomes very expensive.

[0103] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram for explaining the power generation principle of a vertical axis wave power generator that uses a liquid tank with an air chamber in order to solve the cost issue of the sinker. The right side of Figure 14 shows the structure of a vertical-axis wave power generator that generates power using a general sinker, as shown on the left side of Figure 13. In contrast to the structure of this vertical-axis wave power generator on the right that generates power using a general sinker, the left side of Figure 14 shows the structure of a vertical-axis wave power generator that uses a liquid tank with an air chamber, which solves the cost issue of the sinker.

[0104] Specifically, the vertical-axis wave power generator includes a liquid tank fixed within the housing and filled with liquid, a power-generating motor, a freely rotating shaft provided within the housing, and an air chamber fixed integrally to the shaft and rotatable within the liquid tank. The liquid tank is preferably made of a metal or resin with a predetermined strength. Specifically, aluminum, copper, or fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) are desirable. The liquid filled in the liquid tank is preferably freshwater, seawater, low-viscosity oil, etc.

[0105] The shape of the air chamber is preferably one that reduces the resistance of the liquid. Specifically, it is desirable to have a shape that has curved surfaces on both sides and the top. The material that makes up the air chamber must also be lightweight and have a certain degree of strength. Specifically, it is desirable to make it out of aluminum, copper, or the like, with a specified thickness.

[0106] The rotating shaft penetrates the liquid tank at two points, and each penetration is equipped with a waterproof seal such as a sealed waterproof bearing as a waterproofing measure to prevent liquid leakage. The rotating shaft is supported by a pair of bearings provided in the housing. When the rotating shaft rotates, the torque of the rotating shaft rotates the rotor inside the generator motor engaged with the rotating shaft, and this generator motor generates electricity.

[0107] The installation position of the power generating motor may be above the liquid tank as shown in FIG. 14, or below (a position shown as a separate position for the power generating motor in FIG. 14). Also, multiple power generating motors may be installed on the same rotating shaft. Specifically, a power generating motor is installed at the position shown as the position for the power generating motor in FIG. 14 and at the position shown as a separate position for the power generating motor. In this case, the power generating capacity can be increased.

[0108] A vertical-axis wave power generator floats on the water surface with its upper portion protruding from the water surface. When waves of a certain height surge in, the vertical-axis wave power generator is subjected to the force of the waves and tilts a certain amount. As the vertical-axis wave power generator tilts, the air chamber in the liquid tank rotates due to the buoyancy of the air chamber. This causes the rotating shaft, which is integrally connected to the air chamber, to rotate. As a result, the rotating shaft rotates the rotor in the generator motor, which generates electricity. The generated electricity is then stored in a power storage device (not shown).

[0109] Because Figure 14 is a schematic diagram, it only shows the main components of the power generation mechanism, i.e., the power generation motor inside the casing, the rotating shaft, bearings, waterproof bearings, liquid tank, air chamber, etc. However, the vertical axis wave power generation device with an air chamber shown in Figure 14 also has components of other power generation devices described in this specification, such as a control unit, control battery, flood sensor, antenna, light emitting device, coupling, swivel, slip ring, waterproof internal connector, automatic sinking mechanism, wind receiving member, GPS device, etc.

[0110] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram for explaining the power generation principle of an underwater rotary power generating device that uses a liquid tank with an air chamber in order to solve the cost issue of the weight. The right side of Figure 15 shows the structure of an underwater rotary power generating device that generates power using a general sinker, as shown on the right side of Figure 13. In contrast to the structure of the underwater rotary power generating device on the right that generates power using this general sinker, the left side of Figure 15 shows the structure of an underwater rotary power generating device that uses a liquid tank with an air chamber, which solves the cost problem of the sinker.

[0111] Specifically, the underwater rotary power generator comprises a liquid tank fixed within the housing and filled with liquid, a power generating motor, a freely rotating shaft provided within the housing, and an air chamber fixed integrally to the shaft and rotatable within the liquid tank. The liquid tank is preferably made of a metal or resin with a predetermined strength. Specifically, aluminum, copper, or fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) are preferred. The liquid filled in the liquid tank is preferably freshwater, seawater, low-viscosity oil, etc.

[0112] The shape of the air chamber is preferably one that reduces the resistance of the liquid. Specifically, it is desirable to have a shape with curved surfaces on both sides and the top. The material used to renovate the air chamber must be lightweight and have a certain degree of strength. Specifically, it is desirable to construct it from aluminum, copper, or the like with a specified thickness.

[0113] The rotating shaft penetrates the liquid tank at two points, and each penetration is equipped with a waterproof seal, such as a sealed waterproof bearing, as a waterproofing measure to prevent liquid leakage. The rotating shaft is supported by a pair of bearings provided in the housing. When the housing and the stator side of the power generating motor rotate, relative rotation occurs between the rotor and stator inside the power generating motor, causing the power generating motor to generate electricity. The power generating motor can be installed to the right or left of the liquid tank.

[0114] The installation position of the power generating motor may be to the right of the liquid tank as shown in FIG. 15, or to the left (a position shown as a separate position for the power generating motor in FIG. 15). Also, multiple power generating motors may be installed on the same rotating shaft. Specifically, a power generating motor is installed at the position shown as the position for the power generating motor in FIG. 15 and at the position shown as a separate position for the power generating motor. In this case, the power generating capacity can be increased.

[0115] The submersible rotary power generator is moored in a nearly horizontal position to a predetermined mooring means installed underwater. When a tidal current occurs in this state, the current hits the fins attached to the casing, and the tidal force of the current rotates the casing of the submersible rotary power generator and the stator side of the power generating motor.

[0116] The housing of the underwater rotary power generator has a streamlined shape as shown in Figure 31. However, according to Bernoulli's theorem, it is desirable for the upstream side (head) to be thinner than the downstream side (tail), gradually thickening from the upstream side (head) until it is thickest at roughly the center, with a predetermined number of fins attached to that thickened section. The flow speed of the tidal current increases in the thickened section, increasing the rotation speed of the housing.

[0117] Even when the housing of the underwater rotary power generator rotates, the air chamber in the liquid tank tends to remain stationary due to buoyancy. This causes the housing and the stator side of the generator motor to rotate around the rotation axis that is integrally connected to the air chamber. As a result, the stator side of the generator motor rotates, and the generator motor generates electricity. The generated electricity is then stored in a power storage device (not shown).

[0118] Because Figure 15 is a schematic diagram, it only shows the main components of the power generation mechanism, i.e., the power generation motor inside the casing, the rotating shaft, bearings, waterproof bearings, liquid tank, air chamber, fins, etc. However, the submersible rotary tidal and wave power generation device with an air chamber shown in Figure 15 also has the components of other power generation devices described in this specification, such as a control unit, control battery, flood sensor, PLC adapter, light emitting device, coupling, swivel, slip ring, slip ring storage unit, waterproof internal connector, etc.

[0119] Next, a vertical axis type wave power generator 100 having a wind receiving plate will be described. FIG. 16 illustrates the operation of a vertical axis wave power generation device having a wind receiving plate. The housing (external shell) of a vertical-axis wave power generator is preferably cylindrical, elliptical, or other curved shape. The housing (external shell) of a vertical-axis wave power generator can be made of materials such as metal, FRP, polyvinyl chloride, and resin. FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic) is a composite material made by reinforcing resin with fibers, and examples include glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) made with glass fiber and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) made with carbon fiber. The housing (external shell) of a wave power generator is preferably flame-retardant. Furthermore, thermoplasticity can improve production efficiency. Specifically, the housing (external shell) of a wave power generator is preferably made of a resin that is both flame-retardant and thermoplastic, such as transparent polyvinyl chloride. The housing (external shell) of a vertical-axis wave power generator can also be made of a hybrid structure using multiple materials. For example, the bottom side of the wave power generator can be made of a metal such as stainless steel, and the top side can be constructed of transparent polyvinyl chloride. The bottom side of a vertical axis wave power generator can also be made of FRP (fiber reinforced plastic) and the top side can be made of transparent polyvinyl chloride. In such a hybrid material configuration, different effects can be achieved by providing a light-emitting device for illumination or to indicate its presence, or by arranging a solar power generation device inside the transparent polyvinyl chloride section.

[0120] It is desirable to apply a shellfish adhesion prevention material to the outer hull of a vertical-axis wave power generator to prevent the attachment of barnacles and mussels. This is because the attachment of barnacles and mussels creates resistance to the movement of the wave power generator when generating wave power, reducing power generation efficiency. Shellfish adhesion prevention material is applied not only to the submerged parts of the vertical-axis wave power generator casing, but also to the parts that are above water. Shellfish adhesion prevention material is applied to the wave power generator casing using toxic paint containing cuprous oxide or zinc oxide, or protective paint or toxic paint with additives such as sodium chlorite and mineral-based ceramic particles that kill the barnacle larvae that initially attach.

[0121] In addition, the housing (outer shell) of a vertical axis wave power generator is required to have a specified service life. It must be constructed from materials that can achieve a service life of at least two years, or from materials of a specified thickness. Preferably, it should be constructed from materials with a service life of 10 or 20 years or more, or from materials of a specified thickness.

[0122] The control system and various devices (power generation mechanism, solar panels, operating means, various devices, control secondary batteries, display means, communication devices, GPS terminals, various antennas, various lighting means, etc.) installed inside the housing of the vertical-axis wave power generator handle electrical signals, currents, and voltages, so it is desirable that the control system including all of the control units (1) to (14) below and each of the various devices installed inside the wave power generator be placed in a sealed space (sealed box) provided inside the wave power generator for waterproofing. In particular, it is desirable that the control system, control secondary batteries, etc. be placed in a sealed space (sealed box) provided inside the wave power generator for waterproofing, and that they have a water absorption means as described below.

[0123] Vertical-axis wave power generators are equipped with an opening / closing mechanism that allows operators to replace, repair, and operate various devices and control units. This opening / closing mechanism is protected from seawater and freshwater by a waterproof structure using waterproof packing and waterproof sealing materials. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide a locking means with the aforementioned waterproof structure to prevent unauthorized persons from opening the opening / closing mechanism and entering the inside. The locking means may be a number-based locking means that unlocks when multiple numbers match, or a key-based locking means that unlocks when a specific key is inserted. Note that when multiple wave power generators are installed close to each other or when multiple wave power generators are connected by a connecting means such as a rope, it is desirable for each wave power generator to have a common unlocking means. Specifically, in the case of a number-based locking means, it is desirable for the lock to be unlocked using a common number. In the case of a key-based locking means that unlocks when a specific key is inserted, it is desirable for the shape of the key that unlocks the locking means of each wave power generator to be the same for efficiency reasons.

[0124] Furthermore, electrical connection cables are provided to enable the control system, located in a sealed space (sealed box) within the wave power generator, to electrically connect with the various devices located in the sealed spaces (sealed boxes) within the wave power generator. Each sealed space (sealed box) has an opening through which the electrical connection cables pass. A waterproof structure using waterproof packing or a waterproof sealing member is provided at the opening of the sealed space to prevent water from seeping in between the opening and the electrical connection cables. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide water absorption means, consisting of a predetermined amount of water-absorbing gel (e.g., a polyacrylic acid-based high-molecular-weight superabsorbent polymer) covered with a water-absorbent material such as a fabric member, within the sealed space to absorb seawater or freshwater in the unlikely event that it does seep in and prevent it from infiltrating the control system.

[0125] Furthermore, the electrical connection cables used to enable electrical connections between each control unit within the wave power generator and various devices provided within the wave power generator, and between the wave power generator and devices located outside the wave power generator, are preferably waterproof electrical connection cables that have been given a waterproofing function, such as by being covered with a waterproof material. Furthermore, the ends of the waterproof electrical connection cables are provided with waterproof connectors that have a waterproofing function, such as a waterproof cover.

[0126] The control units in the vertical-axis wave power generator are connected to the waterproof electrical connection cables by waterproof connectors provided on each unit, and are electrically connected so that they can be connected and disconnected. Also, the various devices provided in the wave power generator are connected to the waterproof electrical connection cables by waterproof connectors provided on each unit, and are electrically connected so that they can be connected and disconnected. As a result, the electrical connections between the control units in the vertical-axis wave power generator and the various devices provided in the wave power generator can be connected and disconnected in a waterproof state.

[0127] In environments where waves are relatively calm for a long time, such as inland bays, harbors, fishing ports, and lakes, it is predicted that the power generation efficiency of vertical-axis wave power generators will decrease. Therefore, using the diagram in Figure 16, we will explain a vertical-axis wave power generator equipped with a wind-receiving member that enhances power generation efficiency by utilizing wind power, a natural force other than wave power. Figure 16 shows a vertical-axis wave power generator equipped with a wind-receiving member, which is a vibration-reinforcing means.

[0128] A wind-receiving member (wind-receiving plate), which serves as vibration-reinforcing means, is installed at a relatively high position (top) of the vertical-axis wave power generator to cause the vertical-axis wave power generator to sway due to wind, or to further strengthen the swaying vibration of the vertical-axis wave power generator caused by waves. The wind-receiving means causes the wave power generator to sway due to wind power, thereby strengthening power generation. As a result, it is possible to generate power using natural energy in three ways: by wind power, by combining wind power and wave power, and by wave power.

[0129] Although the wind-receiving member can be constructed from a single plate, a single plate would stabilize the vertical-axis wave power generator by rotating it at an angle that minimizes wind resistance. Therefore, as shown in the upper left of Figure 16, it is desirable to install multiple wind-receiving members in different directions. Specifically, it is desirable to arrange them in a cross shape. This ensures that the wind-receiving members can adequately receive the wind regardless of the angle from which the wind blows, allowing the vertical-axis wave power generator to tilt with the wind force. The higher the wind-receiving member, the greater its wind-receiving capacity. For example, the wind-receiving member can be longer than the entire length of the vertical-axis wave power generator, approximately the same length as the entire length, approximately half the entire length, or approximately one-third the entire length. The width of the wind-receiving member may be smaller than the diameter of the vertical-axis wave power generator, approximately the same width as the diameter, or larger than the diameter. The wider the width, the greater the wind-receiving capacity.

[0130] The shape of the wind receiving portion may be symmetrical or asymmetrical. The wind receiving member may be attached at the axis of the vertical axis type wave power generator, or at a position offset from the axis of the vertical axis type wave power generator. The wind receiving member can be made of materials such as metal, FRP, polyvinyl chloride, resin, etc. It is desirable that the material of the wind receiving member is flame retardant. Also, it is beneficial for the wind receiving member to have thermoplastic properties in order to improve production efficiency. If it is made of metal, it reflects electromagnetic waves, making it easier to detect by radar installed on ships and aircraft. If it is made of materials such as FRP, polyvinyl chloride, or resin, it can be painted with zinc spraying or paint containing metal fine powder to enhance the reflection of electromagnetic waves like metal.

[0131] Furthermore, it is preferable that the color of the wind receiving plate be an eye-catching, inexpensive color such as yellow, red, fluorescent color, etc. Furthermore, if multiple wind receiving members are provided in the wave power generation device, the wind receiving members can be configured in different colors. Increasing nighttime visibility by constructing the wind-receiving components from, or attaching or painting with, a highly luminous material is also effective for safety. If a highly luminous material like that used in Humorous Co., Ltd.'s Night Concierge is applied to the top of a vertical axis wave power generator or to the wind-receiving components, the device will be able to store light in sunlight during the day and emit a high-intensity glow at night. The luminous activation time is approximately 12 hours.

[0132] Methods for attaching the wind-receiving material to the wave power generator include gluing and fixing with adhesive, fixing with mechanical fixing means such as bolts, nuts and screws, fitting the base of the wind-receiving material into a groove provided on the outside of the wave power generator housing and fixing it, or adhering one end of a Velcro tape (registered trademark) to the outside of the wave power generator housing and the other end to the base of the wind-receiving material, and fixing the wind-receiving material to the wave power generator housing using the bonding strength of the Velcro tape. When the wind receiving member is fixed by mechanical fixing means, when the base of the wind receiving member is fixed by fitting, when the wind receiving member is fixed by the fastening force of Velcro, etc., the wind receiving member can be detached as needed. If the location is one where the wave force is stronger than expected or if an abnormal situation such as a typhoon is predicted, the wind receiving member can be removed. Of course, it can be reattached after the typhoon has passed.

[0133] The number of wind receiving members may be one or any plural number. The wind receiving member may have any shape, such as a triangle, a square, a trapezoid, a rectangle, an ellipse, or a circle.

[0134] Next, a control system applicable to the vertical axis wave power generator 100 and the submersible rotary power generator 200 will be described. Figure 17 illustrates a control system used in a vertical axis wave power generator and a submersible rotary power generator. The built-in equipment and externally linked equipment of a vertical axis wave power generator and a submersible rotary power generator are different. Therefore, a control system tailored to each configuration can be used, or a common control system can be used. To avoid duplication of explanation, a control system that can be used in common will be explained using Figure 17. The control system is made up of multiple control units, which will be explained below.

[0135] (1) Overall control unit (1) The overall control unit has a ROM, which is a non-volatile storage means for storing and reading programs, a CPU, which is a calculation means for executing the programs, and a RAM, which is a volatile storage means for writing and reading data. (1) The CPU of the overall control unit may incorporate a processor with an 8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit floating-point arithmetic unit suitable for learning processing. When a processor with a 32-bit floating-point arithmetic unit is incorporated into the control system of a wave power generator, advanced artificial intelligence functions such as natural language voice conversation and natural language generated sentences can be realized at high speed. On the other hand, when a processor with an 8-bit or 16-bit floating-point arithmetic unit is incorporated into the control system of a wave power generator, learning processing and artificial intelligence functions can be provided with low power consumption, making it more suitable for artificial intelligence to be built into a wave power generator.

[0136] (1) Even if the overall control unit does not have artificial intelligence functions, (1) the CPU of the overall control unit incorporates an 8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit processor. If a 32-bit processor is incorporated into the overall control unit of a wave power generator, it can execute and calculate programs written in 32 bits at high speed. On the other hand, if an 8-bit or 16-bit processor is incorporated into the overall control unit of a wave power generator, it can execute and calculate programs with low power consumption and low heat generation, making it more suitable as a processor to be built into a wave power generator.

[0137] It also contains an operating system, which is the system software that controls the operation of the computer system, and firmware, which is software for controlling the computer system that is pre-written into integrated circuits such as ROM and built into the device.

[0138] The power source for operating this entire control system is a secondary battery that can be repeatedly charged and discharged. Nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, and NAS batteries can be used for the control secondary battery that supplies power to the entire control system. Among these, lithium-ion batteries are preferred because of their fast charging speed and compact size. Lithium-ion batteries used in automobiles can be used in wave power generators. Generally, lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs) deteriorate with use and lose about 80% of their charging capacity, and are replaced with new ones. These used lithium-ion batteries (with charging capacity reduced to a specified level) can be used in wave power generators or the floating energy storage device described below. Furthermore, as shown in the diagram, this overall control system is interconnected with each control block, such as the communication control unit and operation control unit, via bus lines, allowing data, instructions, and response signals to be transmitted in both directions.

[0139] The secondary battery built into the vertical-axis wave power generator should preferably be located below the waterline of the generator. This allows the temperature rise of the built-in secondary battery to be suppressed by dissipating heat into the seawater or freshwater outside the outer shell of the floating wave power generator. This arrangement is particularly effective when the secondary battery is a lithium-ion battery.

[0140] (2) Artificial Intelligence Unit The (2) artificial intelligence unit can be stored as a program in a storage device such as ROM or RAM within the (1) overall control unit. Alternatively, it can be constructed as a (2) artificial intelligence unit with an artificial intelligence CPU, ROM, and RAM separate from the (1) overall control unit and within the overall control system of the power generation device. When the (2) artificial intelligence unit is installed within a power generation device such as a vertical-axis wave power generation device or an underwater rotary power generation device, it is desirable to also install machine learning data for a specific function, multiple machine learning data for different functions, and one or more trained models that make decisions based on the machine-learned data within the wave power generation device. In this case, the wave power generation device can autonomously detect danger and activate an automatic sinking function, or generate power at optimal efficiency according to environmental data such as wave height and period.

[0141] On the other hand, the (2) artificial intelligence unit can be installed outside the vertical-axis wave power generator or the submersible rotary power generator, i.e., in a land-based management facility, an onboard management facility, or on the cloud, and the (2) artificial intelligence unit can communicate with the (1) overall control unit installed in the vertical-axis wave power generator or the submersible rotary power generator and the individual control units installed in the vertical-axis wave power generator or the submersible rotary power generator via the (3) communication control unit described below, and the (2) artificial intelligence located away from the vertical-axis wave power generator or the submersible rotary power generator can remotely control the wave power generator. In this case, the power consumption burden of the artificial intelligence, the accumulation of large amounts of machine learning data to improve the functions of the artificial intelligence, and the storage of multiple trained models with different functions can be carried out in a remote location outside the wave power generator.

[0142] The (2) artificial intelligence unit may have a natural language generation function, a natural language decoding function, an image recognition function for recognizing images captured by a camera or images sent from an external source, and a natural language conversation function using voice generation and voice recognition. In such a case, a monitoring center on land or on a ship can ask the (2) artificial intelligence unit of the wave power generation device on the water questions about the operation status of the power generation device, the charging status of the secondary battery, the power generation status of the wave power generation device, etc., using voice information or language information, and can issue operating instructions to various devices connected to the power generation device's control system.

[0143] (2) The artificial intelligence CPU of the artificial intelligence unit incorporates a processor with an 8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit floating-point arithmetic unit suitable for learning processing. When a processor with a 32-bit floating-point arithmetic unit is incorporated into the control system of a power generation device, advanced artificial intelligence functions such as natural language voice conversation and conversation using natural language-generated language sentences can be realized at high speed. On the other hand, when a processor with an 8-bit or 16-bit floating-point arithmetic unit is incorporated into the control system of a power generation device, learning processing and artificial intelligence functions can be performed with low power consumption, making it more suitable as an artificial intelligence CPU to be built into a power generation device.

[0144] (2) The artificial intelligence unit enables autonomous control of multiple different functions, such as autonomous operation of the entire power generation equipment, autonomous danger avoidance behavior, autonomous periodic information transmission and reception, autonomous power generation efficiency control, etc. (2) To achieve autonomous control of each of these functions, the artificial intelligence unit has machine-learned data for each function and a trained model for each function that makes optimal decisions based on past machine-learned data and current situation data.

[0145] First, we will explain the case where autonomous power generation efficiency control is performed by the (2) artificial intelligence unit. The power generation efficiency or power output of a power generation device is affected by factors such as the size and period of the waves shaking the device, the vibration period of the weight (or air chamber in the liquid tank) that is part of the power generation means within the device, the height of the center of gravity of the device, and the installation location of the power generation mechanism. Therefore, past situation data consisting of past data on waves under various conditions (wave size, wave period, wave direction, wave speed, date and time data, or any combination of multiple data) and past data on changes in the state of the power generation device (vibration period of the weight that is part of the power generation means, the height of the center of gravity of the device, and the installation location of the power generation mechanism, or any combination of multiple data) is associated with past power generation device output data under those conditions (power generation efficiency, power generation output, or both) and is repeatedly trained into the power generation efficiency improvement machine learning data. Wave size and wave period are detected by a vibration sensor connected to the optional connector of the (13) external optional control unit, which will be described later. The direction and speed of the waves are detected by a tidal current sensor connected to the optional connector of the external optional control unit (13). Date data, or month / date data, and time data are obtained from a radio-controlled clock built into the time management unit (10) or a battery-powered quartz clock. Waves are significantly affected by tides, such as high tides and low tides, so the date data, month / date data, and time data alone, along with the power generation device output data at that time and date, can serve as machine learning data for improving power generation efficiency. Furthermore, having the machine learning data for improving power generation efficiency learn past data related to waves, including date data, month / date data, and time data, is effective in improving the accuracy of the artificial intelligence's judgments.

[0146] The power generation efficiency improvement model judges, determines, and outputs the power generation efficiency, which is the output of the power generation device, or the state variable variables within the power generation device that will increase the power generation output (one of, or any combination of, the vibration period of the weight, the height of the center of gravity of the wave power generation device, the installation position of the power generation mechanism, etc.), based on actual situation data regarding waves at a certain point in time (wave size, wave period, wave direction, or any combination of multiple of them) and actual situation data regarding state variable variables within the power generation device (one of, or any combination of multiple of the vibration period of the weight, which is part of the power generation means, the height of the center of gravity of the power generation device, the installation position of the power generation mechanism, etc.), as well as machine-learned power generation efficiency improvement machine learning data. (2) Based on the output of the power generation efficiency improvement model, the artificial intelligence unit controls the drive of one or more drive means built into the wave power generation device, such as the oscillation period adjustment mechanism (pendulum weight height change actuator), center of gravity adjustment mechanism (charging mechanism height change actuator), power generation mechanism rotation actuator, and automatic sinking mechanism consisting of a spiral rod drive motor and limiter switch sensor, autonomously changing the internal state of the power generation device and controlling it to optimize the power generation efficiency and power output of the power generation device.

[0147] So far, we have explained that data related to waves (wave size, wave period, wave direction, or any combination of these) is used as one type of situation data. However, if we consider that the output of the power generation device changes due to the influence of waves, data on the output of the power generation device (either power generation efficiency or power output, or both) or date and time data can be used as a substitute variable for data related to waves.

[0148] That is, the output data of the power generation device under various conditions (either power generation efficiency or power output, or both) and both date and time data, and status data of the moving parts within the power generation device consisting of data on state variables within the power generation device (either the oscillation period of the pendulum weight which is part of the power generation means, the height of the center of gravity of the wave power generation device, the operating status of the automatic submersion mechanism, the installation angle of the power generation mechanism unit, or any combination of multiple), and the output data of the power generation device under those conditions (either power generation efficiency or power output, or both) are associated and repeatedly trained into the power generation efficiency improvement machine learning data. Furthermore, in order to improve accuracy, it is also effective to perform machine learning of the power generation efficiency improvement machine learning data by adding date and time data for those conditions in addition to the output data of the power generation device under various conditions.

[0149] The power generation efficiency improvement model determines and outputs state variable variables within the power generation device (such as the oscillation period of the pendulum weight, the height of the center of gravity of the wave power generation device, and the installation position of the power generation mechanism unit, or any combination of multiple variables) that increase the power generation efficiency, which is the output of the power generation device, or the power generation output, based on data on the power generation device's output (either power generation efficiency or power output, or both) at a certain point in time, status data on state variable variables within the power generation device (either the oscillation period of the pendulum weight, which is part of the power generation means, the operating status of the automatic sinking mechanism, the height of the power generation device's center of gravity, or the installation position of the power generation mechanism unit, or any combination of multiple variables), and machine-learned power generation efficiency improvement machine learning data. (2) The artificial intelligence unit drives and controls one or any number of drive means built into the power generation device based on the output of the power generation efficiency improvement model, autonomously changing the internal state of the power generation device and controlling it to optimize the power generation efficiency and power output of the power generation device.

[0150] In the autonomous danger avoidance behavior of the power generation device, for example, if the radar of the (3) communication control unit installed in the vertical axis wave power generation device detects the approach of a ship, or if various weather information and wave height information is obtained from the (12) environmental observation control unit and an approaching typhoon is detected, the automatic submersion mechanism is activated to sink to a specified water depth to avoid a collision with the ship, to initiate typhoon avoidance behavior, to notify the outside world of a dangerous situation via the (3) communication control unit, to activate a brake lock to suppress the movement of the power generation mechanism, and other safety actions are taken using actual situation data, machine learning data on the danger avoidance behavior function that has been machine-learned for the behavior function using a huge amount of data of the same type as the actual situation data, and a trained model that makes judgments about the danger avoidance behavior function based on the actual situation data and the machine learning data.

[0151] Autonomous danger avoidance behavior is performed, for example, when the radar in the communication control unit (3) detects the approach of a ship or aircraft. When an approaching ship or aircraft is detected, the risk prediction model determines the possibility of collision based on actual situation data, including the location information of the wave power generation device obtained from GPS, the connection status of the floating wave power generation device (whether it is a single wave power generation device, how many wave power generation devices are connected, and the number and connection locations of floating wave power generation devices with autonomous navigation capabilities), the approach speed and direction of the approaching aircraft or ship, and the speed and direction of currents and winds, as well as risk prediction machine learning data created by machine learning using a huge amount of data of the same type as the actual situation data. If a risk is determined, the system autonomously performs risk avoidance behavior. A warning sound or message is emitted from a speaker to alert the approaching ship or aircraft, and red or yellow warning lights are turned on or flashed to warn the approaching ship or aircraft. In addition, information about the current dangerous situation (approach information including images of approaching objects) is sent via (3) the communication control unit to a manned management base on land or a management center on a manned ship, and the manned management base on land or the management center on the manned ship is asked to manually issue a warning to approaching ships or aircraft and request that they take action to avoid the danger.

[0152] The (2) artificial intelligence unit receives digital data and electrical signals representing the actual state of various devices within the power generation system from the (11) management and control unit, various sensors installed within the power generation system, and various devices installed inside and outside the power generation system, and uses a failure prediction trained model to predict future failures based on remote failure diagnosis data for the various devices and failure prediction machine learning data consisting of a huge amount of data on past failures that is the same type as the actual state data, i.e., data from the various sensors and digital data and electrical signals from the various devices. If a failure is predicted for various devices or secondary batteries connected to the control system within the power generation system, the unit will light up a warning lamp to warn of the predicted failure on the device or secondary battery, and will notify the power generation system management center on land or on board via the communication control unit described below.

[0153] (3) Communication control unit (3) The communication control unit is connected to all or some of the various antennas (satellite communication antennas, mobile phone base station antennas, 5G communication antennas, 4G communication antennas, short-range communication antennas, Wi-Fi communication antennas, GPS antennas, radar antennas, etc.) installed in the vertical axis power generation device. If the outer shell is made of a radio wave transparent material such as polyvinyl chloride, it is desirable to install the various antennas high inside the outer shell of the wave power generation device from the perspective of waterproofing and windproofing. However, if the outer shell is made of a material that does not transmit radio waves such as stainless steel, the antennas are installed outside the outer shell. In this case, the antenna unit and the inside of the wave power generation device are electrically connected by a signal cable installed via a waterproof structure, and electrical signals are exchanged.

[0154] The (3) communication control unit is also directly or indirectly connected to the PLC adapter installed in the underwater rotary power generator. There are two main types of PLC communication depending on the frequency band used. One is "low-speed PLC," which uses a frequency band of 10k to 500kHz, and has a low transmission speed of several to several hundred kbits / second, but is capable of long-distance communication of over 1km.

[0155] The other is "high-speed PLC," which uses a frequency band of 2M to 100MHz (up to 30MHz in Japan), and although this has a shorter communication distance, it has a faster transmission speed. It is desirable for the (3) communication control unit of the power generation device to have the functions of either "low-speed PLC" or "high-speed PLC," or both. For example, "HD-PLC," one of the high-speed PLC communication standards, has a communication distance of several hundred meters and a transmission speed of several tens of megabits to 1 gigabit per second (several hundred megabits in Japan), and this high speed can be used to transmit fish detection images from a fish finder or video from a camera.

[0156] The communications control unit also has encryption / decryption means for encrypting and transmitting communications information and decrypting received communications information, enhancing the security of communications information. Encrypting and transmitting specific information, particularly control information for controlling the control system (including information for controlling the lower-level control units included in the control system) built into the surface power generation unit from a ground or onboard management center, information collected by the fish finder, sonar, underwater camera, and aerial camera installed in the offshore power generation unit, and image information from these, is an important way of preventing the leakage of business and military information.

[0157] (3) The communication control unit is connected to a 5G mobile communication terminal device, a 4G mobile communication terminal device, a Wi-Fi communication device, a satellite communication unit, and a PLC adapter. (3) The satellite communication unit installed in the communication control unit communicates via satellites in space. Satellites in geostationary orbit 36,000 km above the equator cover the entire territory of Japan and its territorial waters. Data is sent and received between the antenna (earth station) installed in the vertical-axis wave power generator and the satellite. Satellite communication radio waves are classified into Ku band and C band. The satellite communication band for the vertical-axis wave power generator can be either Ku band or C band. The Ku band (frequency band 10.6 to 15.7 GHz: 12.25 to 12.75 GHz for downlink and 14.0 to 14.5 GHz for uplink) has the characteristic of being able to be received by small antennas, making it more suitable for satellite communications using the wave power generator as a base station. The satellite communication unit of the wave power generator can send and receive voice, images, and digital data to satellite communication base stations around the world via multiple communication satellites in space. For example, connecting to Starlink, a satellite internet constellation operated by the US company SpaceX, will enable satellite internet access almost everywhere on Earth. The main communication base stations that connect to the satellite communication units of wave power generation devices, which enable satellite internet access almost everywhere on Earth, are communication base stations installed at onshore wave power generation device management facilities that manage one or more wave power generation devices, communication base stations installed on offshore ships, fishing boats, and military vessels around the world, and any base station installed on offshore buoyancy power generation device management vessels that manage one or more wave power generation devices.

[0158] The wave power generation device's satellite communication unit can transmit and receive voice, images, and digital data in both directions in near real time to and from any one or multiple communication base stations around the world. Specifically, the wave power generation device can continuously transmit information in near real time, such as meteorological information (temperature, weather, wind direction, etc.) detected by its built-in sensors, oceanographic information (wave height, tidal current speed, tidal current direction, seawater temperature, etc.), and radar images and the position information of ships and aircraft detected by its radar.

[0159] When a wave power generation device or an underwater rotary power generation device is equipped with a fish finder or sonar, the floating wave power generation device or underwater power generation device can transmit information about the presence or absence of detected schools of fish, submarines, or ships to land-based or ship-based base stations around the world in almost real time. If a fish finder is installed in the power generation unit, it can acquire detection images of schools of fish and the seabed near the power generation unit and transmit the information to any base station. If a sonar is installed in the power generation unit, it can detect 360 degrees around the power generation unit and freely detect schools of fish present in lateral and diagonal directions. It can continuously acquire fish detection images, submarine detection images, and seabed detection images not only directly below the power generation unit but also in lateral and diagonal directions, along with time and location information, constantly or for any period of time, and transmit the information in near real time to any satellite communication base station communication device. Furthermore, the detection information of schools of fish and submarines, including date, time, location, water depth, and fish abundance, can be recorded in memory means such as RAM in the overall control unit (1), and learned and analyzed by the artificial intelligence (2). Encounters of schools of fish or submarines can be predicted, and the results can be transmitted via satellite communication to any one or more satellite communication base station communication devices around the world.

[0160] Furthermore, a power generation device equipped with a fish finder or sonar can obtain near-real-time detection information on schools of fish or submarines from one or more other power generation devices equipped with fish finders or sonars via a communication path, evaluate and analyze this information together with the detection information on schools of fish or submarines from its own fish finder or sonar, and predict the destination of the schools of fish or submarines.The predicted destination of the schools of fish can then be transmitted in near real time to one or more fishing boats, such as bonito fishing boats or tuna fishing boats, or to communication devices at land-based communication base stations.

[0161] On the other hand, for example, skipjack tuna fishing boats and tuna fishing boats can obtain one or more pieces of fish detection information and predicted fish encounter information all the time or continuously for a predetermined period of time from one or more power generation devices equipped with a fish finder or sonar via communication. As a result, fishing boats such as skipjack tuna fishing boats and tuna fishing boats can efficiently and dramatically increase their catch by moving to sea areas where fish schools have been detected at an approach angle suitable for their fishing method, or by approaching sea areas where encounters are predicted based on the predicted fish encounter information at an approach angle suitable for their fishing method.

[0162] The communication control unit (3) can be electrically connected to a base station antenna for any mobile phone carrier installed inside or outside the power generation device housing, and to a base station device for any mobile phone carrier installed inside or outside the wave power generation device housing. It is desirable to install multiple antennas for any mobile phone carrier to improve directivity. It is preferable to install the antenna at a high position near the top of the floating wave power generation device. The antenna and base station device may be for a single mobile phone carrier, or may be installed together with those for multiple mobile phone carriers. The base station device for a mobile phone carrier installed on the floating wave power generation device is located at the edge of the wireless access network, collecting voice and data signals from mobile phones and sending them to the mobile phone carrier's core network.

[0163] In this way, a wave power generator equipped with a mobile phone base station antenna and base station equipment can be used as a base station for any number of mobile phone carriers. A single wave power generator with mobile phone base station functionality can enable mobile phone communications over an area with a radius of 1 km to several kilometers. Furthermore, by placing multiple wave power generators with mobile phone base station functionality at a predetermined distance apart (a distance within which they can communicate with each other), mobile phone communications can be enabled over a wider area. In this case, if each wave power generator with mobile phone base station functionality is equipped with antennas and base station equipment for multiple mobile phone carriers, mobile phone communications operated by multiple mobile phone carriers can be enabled over a wider area.

[0164] A wireless LAN router (Wi-Fi router) can be installed on the wave power generation device to connect to a satellite communication device with an internet connection or a mobile phone communication device with an internet connection. Wi-Fi is an abbreviation for "Wireless Fidelity" and is a short-range communication technology that connects devices to the internet. It is characterized by its wireless internet connection, and can be used with Wi-Fi-compatible devices and peripherals such as PCs, smartphones (mobile phones), tablets, game consoles, and printers, as long as the radio waves reach them.

[0165] The communication control unit (3) electrically interconnects the internet-enabled satellite communication device, internet-enabled mobile phone communication device, and wireless LAN router (Wi-Fi router) installed in the wave power generator, enabling them to communicate with each other. As a result, within an area of ​​several tens of meters from the wave power generator, Wi-Fi-enabled devices and peripherals, including PCs, smartphones (mobile phones), tablets, game consoles, and printers, can connect to the internet wirelessly. Furthermore, by placing multiple wave power generators with built-in wireless LAN routers (Wi-Fi routers) at a specified distance apart (distance within which they can communicate with each other), wireless internet connection is possible over a wider area.

[0166] The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite positioning system operated by the United States. Of the approximately 30 GPS satellites launched by the United States for military use, signals from several satellites in the sky are received by a GPS antenna and GPS receiver, allowing the receiver to determine its current location. By installing this GPS antenna and GPS receiver on a floating wave power generation device, the device can determine its position on Earth with high accuracy in real time. This PS receiver is connected to the communications control unit (3) and electrically connected via the control system's internal bus, enabling each control unit that makes up the control system to use the GPS signals. In particular, the GPS receiver can be interconnected with the overall control unit (1), the artificial intelligence unit (2), the environmental observation control unit (12), the mobility control unit (14), and the external option control unit (13), allowing each of these control blocks to use the GPS signals in real time.

[0167] The floating wave power generation device can be equipped with a radar with an output of approximately 5 kW (it can be less than 5 kW or more than 5 kW), and the radar can be controlled by the communication control unit (3). The communication control unit (3) is electrically connected to the internal bus of the control system, so each control unit that makes up the control system can be connected to the radar. Specifically, the radar can be used by the overall control unit (1), the artificial intelligence unit (2), the environmental observation control unit (12), the transportation control unit (14), and the external option control unit (13), and plays an important role in enabling the floating wave power generation device to take action to avoid danger.

[0168] As explained above, the communication control unit (3) can send and receive data between the wave power generator and any communication facility around the world via satellite communication networks or 4G / 5G mobile communication networks. This allows remote control and remote diagnosis of the wave power generator from land bases around the world or from offshore bases on ships at sea. It also allows remote updates of the firmware and operating system installed in the overall control unit (1) of the wave power generator and the artificial intelligence control unit (2). It also allows on / off control of not only software but also hardware such as the light-emitting means, fish finder, sonar, and radar installed in the wave power generator, as well as access to digital and image data output by the fish finder, sonar, and radar from anywhere in the world.

[0169] Furthermore, the communication control unit (3) can remotely diagnose faults and predict their occurrence via satellite communication networks and 4G / 5G mobile communication networks between the wave power generation device and any communication facility around the world. Specifically, by sending and receiving digital data and electrical signals from the management control unit (11), various sensors installed in the wave power generation device, various devices installed inside the wave power generation device (control system, secondary battery, motor, light-emitting means, antenna, solar power generation means such as solar panels), and various devices installed outside the wave power generation device (light-emitting means, fish finder, sonar, radar, underwater robot, solar panels, etc.), it is possible to remotely diagnose faults in various devices and remotely predict future faults based on machine learning of data on past faults.

[0170] In addition to the (3) communication control unit, the power generation equipment control system also includes a (14) wired communication control unit that performs RS232C serial communication, allowing wired communication between various devices.

[0171] (4) Charge / discharge and power transmission control unit The (4) charge / discharge / power transmission control unit controls the storage of electrical energy generated by the power generation device in a control secondary battery installed within the power generation device, and the transmission of electrical energy generated by the wave power generation device to a floating energy storage device or a power transmission grid outside the wave power generation device via a power transmission cable connected to the power generation device. In addition, if the solar panels are connected to the (13) external option control unit, the (4) charge / discharge / power transmission control unit can also charge the electrical energy converted from solar energy into a control secondary battery or a large-capacity secondary battery built into the wave power generation device at DC voltage. In other words, the (4) charge / discharge / power transmission control unit also controls the electrical energy generated by the solar panels.

[0172] Furthermore, (4) the charge / discharge / power transmission control unit has an AC / DC converter that converts the AC current generated by the power generation device into DC current, and stores electrical energy in the large-capacity secondary storage battery and the control secondary storage battery using DC current. When the electrical energy generated by the wave power generation device is transmitted to a floating energy storage device outside the power generation device or to a power transmission grid via a power transmission cable connected to the wave power generation device, the electrical energy is transmitted in the form of alternating current.

[0173] The power generation device is equipped with a control secondary battery. The large-capacity battery, installed outside the power generation device's housing, is used to store large amounts of electrical energy generated by the power generation device. It typically has a capacity of approximately 15 to 200 kW. The large-capacity secondary battery is in a cartridge format and is replaceable and removable. After the cartridge battery is nearly fully charged, it can be removed from the wave power generation device and stored on land or aboard a ship, or the stored electrical energy can be extracted on land or aboard a ship. The control secondary battery is a secondary battery with the same or smaller capacity as the large-capacity secondary battery. Because high-speed charging and discharging is required, a lithium-ion battery is preferable. The control secondary battery is used to supply electrical energy to the wave power generation device's control system and various active devices connected to the control system (motors, radar devices, fish finders, sonar, cameras, satellite communication devices, mobile phone base station devices, light-emitting devices, and underwater robots).

[0174] The charge / discharge / transmission control unit (4) includes a charging / transmission destination selection device. Because a wave power generator cannot operate without a functioning control system, the electrical energy generated by the wave power generator is first charged into the control secondary battery by the charging / transmission destination selection device. Then, charging (transmission) to the large-capacity secondary battery begins via the power transmission cable. Even if the capacity of the control secondary battery falls below a predetermined level, the charging / transmission destination selection device prioritizes charging the control secondary battery over charging (transmission) to the large-capacity secondary battery. In other words, when the charge of the control secondary battery is above a predetermined level, the charging / transmission destination selection device charges (transmits) the large-capacity storage battery. Because the control secondary battery can also malfunction or deteriorate, it is installed in the generator as a replaceable cartridge. The voltage, insulation state, temperature, and degree of deterioration of the control secondary battery and the large-capacity secondary battery are constantly monitored by the management and control unit (11), described below, and replacement is performed based on the monitoring results. (11) If the management control unit detects an abnormality or failure in the control secondary battery or the large-capacity secondary battery, it stops using the secondary battery in question. For example, if an abnormality or failure is detected in the control secondary battery, it switches the power source to the control system of the wave power generation device from the control secondary battery to the large-capacity secondary battery, and after the switch, it cuts off the electrical connection to the control secondary battery and stops using the control secondary battery. Furthermore, if an abnormality or failure is detected in the large-capacity secondary battery, it stops storing electrical energy in the large-capacity secondary battery as soon as possible.

[0175] Some wave power generation devices do not have a large-capacity secondary battery, but instead transmit the electrical energy generated by the wave power generation device to an onshore power grid via a power transmission cable or to a large-capacity secondary battery installed outside the wave power generation device. Even in such wave power generation devices, the charge / discharge / power transmission control unit (4) prioritizes charging the control secondary battery over transmitting power to the outside via the power transmission cable.

[0176] (5) Operation control unit The (5) operation control unit is connected to a keyboard and various switches used by the operator to control the power generation device's control system. The keyboard is a device for inputting character, symbol, and numeric information into (1) the overall control unit and (2) the artificial intelligence unit. Typical keyboards have mechanically operated keycaps, but there is a risk of water seeping into the gaps between the keycaps. It is desirable for the keyboard and various switches within the wave power generation device to be waterproof. Therefore, a waterproof touch-panel keyboard is preferable. The various switches include a main switch that turns the entire control system of the wave power generation device on and off, individual control unit switches that turn each control unit that makes up the control system on and off, individual switches that turn the control secondary battery and large-capacity secondary battery on and off, and external option switches that turn on and off external options connected to the (13) external option control unit (solar panels, radar equipment, fish finders, sonar, cameras, satellite communication equipment, mobile phone base station equipment, light-emitting devices, underwater robots, weather observation sensors, etc.). The operator can use these switches to reset or disconnect malfunctioning control units or external optional devices individually. It is desirable that these various switches be waterproofed with waterproof packing or waterproof seals.

[0177] (6) Automatic settling mechanism control unit (6) The automatic sinking mechanism control unit controls the amount of freshwater or seawater in a ballast tank installed inside the housing of the vertical-axis wave power generator, thereby controlling the buoyancy of the vertical-axis wave power generator. The ballast tank has a cylinder section and a water supply and drainage port. The water supply and drainage port opens to the outside of the housing, allowing freshwater or seawater outside the housing of the vertical-axis wave power generator to be taken into or discharged from the ballast tank. Inside the cylinder is a piston whose size fits snugly against the inner wall of the cylinder, and a spiral rod for moving the piston within the cylinder. One end of the spiral rod is fixed to the piston, and the other end is operatively connected to a spiral rod drive motor. The spiral rod drive motor is rotated to move the spiral rod in the longitudinal direction of the cylinder, thereby controlling the position of the piston. In addition, the ballast tank is equipped with a pair of limiter switch sensors that detect the upper end position of the piston (when the ballast tank is full of water) and the lower end position of the piston (when the ballast tank is empty).

[0178] (6) When a typhoon approaches, the automatic sinking function control unit injects water into the ballast tank to reduce buoyancy and evacuate the vertical-axis wave power generator to a depth where the waves are relatively calm, in order to prevent damage to the vertical-axis wave power generator from large waves. Specifically, the unit controls the rotation of the spiral rod drive motor to move the piston connected to the spiral rod toward the top of the cylinder until it reaches the upper limiter switch sensor, drawing water into the ballast tank. As a result, the vertical-axis wave power generator sinks to a predetermined depth. When the typhoon passes and the waves become calm, the unit moves the piston downward to drain water from the ballast tank, increasing buoyancy and allowing the vertical-axis wave power generator to rise to a depth where the top of the vertical-axis wave power generator protrudes above the water surface. Specifically, the unit controls the rotation of the spiral rod drive motor to move the piston connected to the spiral rod toward the bottom of the cylinder until it reaches the lower limiter switch sensor, draining water from the ballast tank. As a result, the vertical-axis wave power generator rises to a predetermined depth.

[0179] The (6) automatic sinking function control unit is controlled by the (1) overall control unit or (2) artificial intelligence control unit described above to avoid danger, avoid typhoon damage, and optimize the power output of the vertical axis wave power generation device. The (6) automatic sinking control unit can also be controlled by remote control from outside the vertical axis wave power generation device, i.e., from an onshore management facility or an onboard management facility via the (2) communication control unit, to avoid danger, avoid damage due to approaching typhoons, and optimize the power output of the wave power generation device.

[0180] (7) Lighting control unit The (7) lighting control unit is connected to various lighting devices installed inside and outside the vertical-axis wave power generator and to a control secondary battery installed inside the vertical-axis wave power generator. It controls the ON / OFF of the various lighting devices, the brightness of the lighting devices, and the change of light color. Furthermore, the (7) lighting control unit can connect to a satellite communication network, a mobile communication network, a Wi-Fi communication network, and a short-range communication network via the (3) communication control unit, allowing remote control and remote diagnosis of the various lighting devices installed in the wave power generator from a manned control center installed on land or an offshore vessel. Therefore, the various lighting devices installed in the wave power generator can be illuminated using the electrical energy generated by the wave power generator, and can be remotely controlled and remotely diagnosed from a location far from the wave power generator, without the need for power transmission from land via power lines or the ON / OFF control of the various lighting devices, brightness control of the lighting devices, and change of light color on the water.

[0181] (7) The various lighting devices controlled by the lighting control means include the following: anti-collision lighting devices, ambient lighting devices, surface fishing lighting devices, underwater fishing lighting devices, and lighting devices for fish farming facilities. Each lighting device may be installed on a vertical axis wave power generator alone, or multiple types of lighting devices may be combined and installed on the vertical axis wave power generator. Furthermore, each lighting device may have one light-emitting element or any number of multiple light-emitting elements.

[0182] ·Anti-collision lighting system This is a lighting device that indicates the presence and position of a wave power generation device to other ships, boats, and airplanes in order to prevent collisions between the wave power generation device and them. White, red, yellow, etc. are effective colors for the lighting device, but in addition to a constant single color, a system that switches colors sequentially or flashes is also effective. There can be one lighting device, or any number of multiple lighting devices. When multiple lighting devices are installed, they can be the same color or a combination of different colors. The lighting device can be installed at a high position on the wave power generation device, or at any height between the top and the water surface. If installed near the top (highest point) of the wave power generation device, it can be seen from a distance

[0183] Ambient lighting fixtures Like streetlights on land, the area around the wave power generator can be brightly illuminated. White, red, yellow, and other colors are effective for the lighting device, but a single color, sequential color switching, or flashing is also effective. There can be one lighting device, or any number of lighting devices. When multiple lighting devices are installed, they can be the same color or a combination of different colors. The lighting devices can be installed at a high position on the wave power generator, or at any height between the top and the water surface. Installing them near the top (highest point) of the wave power generator allows for illumination over a wider area. To illuminate a wider area, rod-shaped or platform-shaped supports can be installed near the top of the wave power generator, and lighting devices can be installed at the higher points on these supports.

[0184] ·Lighting device for floating fish collection Illuminating the water surface with lighting devices attracts plankton, which in turn attracts small fish that eat them, and then larger fish and squid that prey on them. Placing wave power generators equipped with surface fish-attracting lighting devices around squid fishing boats or in or around offshore raft-type fishing ponds is advantageous in attracting large numbers of fish and squid. White, blue, green, red, and other colors are effective for lighting devices. In addition to a single color, sequential color switching and flashing are also effective. A single lighting device can be installed, or any number of lighting devices can be installed. When multiple lighting devices are installed, they can be the same color or a combination of different colors. Lighting devices can be installed at a high position on the wave power generator or at any height between the top and the water surface. Installing lighting devices near the top (highest point) of a vertical-axis wave power generator allows for illumination over a wide area. To illuminate a wider area, rod-shaped or platform-shaped supports can be installed near the top of the vertical-axis wave power generator, and lighting devices can be installed at the higher points on these supports.

[0185] Underwater fish attracting lighting device It is possible to attract many fish by placing underwater lighting devices near the bottom of a vertical axis wave power generator or by hanging a waterproof cable from the vertical axis wave power generator at a depth of several meters to 10 meters or more. White, blue, green, red, etc. are effective colors for the lighting devices, but in addition to a single color all the time, methods that switch colors sequentially or flash are also effective. There can be one lighting device, or any number of multiple lighting devices. If multiple lighting devices are installed, they can be the same color or a combination of different colors.

[0186] The depth at which the underwater lighting device is placed can be changed to the desired depth by replacing it with a waterproof cable of the desired length, or by attaching an underwater light to the end of a waterproof cable of sufficient length and adjusting the length of the waterproof cable (for example, by wrapping the waterproof cable around something to adjust the length) so that the underwater lighting device is located at the desired depth.

[0187] (8) Power generation control unit (8) The power generation control unit controls the height of the power generation device's center of gravity and the natural frequency of the power generation device to optimize the amount of wave power generated by the power generation device. It also performs suppression control to suppress vibrations in the power generation mechanism. Specifically, it controls the actuator that moves the power generation mechanism, such as the weight, in the vertical direction to change the center of gravity of the wave power generation device. For example, when the waves are calm, the power generation control unit controls the center of gravity movement actuator to move the center of gravity of the wave power generation device to a higher position to make the wave power generation device more likely to sway, and when the waves are rough, the power generation control unit controls the center of gravity movement actuator to move the center of gravity of the wave power generation device to a lower position to prevent excessive swaying of the wave power generation device.

[0188] In addition, the (8) power generation control unit of the vertical axis wave power generation device can optimize the amount of power generated by precisely controlling the amount of water poured into the ballast tank to optimally control buoyancy. Methods for precisely controlling the amount of water poured into the ballast tank include increasing the number of limiter switch sensors installed in the ballast tank, and precisely controlling the rotation speed of the spiral rod drive motor to move from a specified position (the bottom end position of the piston).

[0189] The (8) power generation control unit is controlled by the aforementioned (1) overall control unit or (2) artificial intelligence control unit to optimize the amount of power generated by the wave power generation device. The (8) power generation control unit can also be controlled remotely from outside the wave power generation device, i.e., from a wave power generation device control system in an onshore management facility or a shipboard management facility, via the (2) communication control unit to optimize the amount of power generated by the wave power generation device.

[0190] (9) Display control unit The (9) display control unit displays the status of the various devices installed within the power generation system (power generation system, solar power generation panel, operating means, various devices, control secondary battery, large-capacity secondary battery, display means, communication equipment, GPS terminal, various antennas, various lighting means, radar, fish finder, sonar, imaging camera, etc.) on the internal status display LCD and LED. The display control unit also displays the status of each control unit of the control system installed within the power generation system on the internal status display LCD and LED. The display control unit also displays the fault conditions and fault diagnosis results of the various devices and control units on the internal status display LCD and LED. Furthermore, the (9) display control unit obtains the stored power and charging status of the control secondary battery and large-capacity secondary battery from the (4) charge / discharge control unit and displays it on the internal status display LCD and LED.

[0191] (9) The display control unit can display information on the internal status display LCD or LED, and send information on the storage capacity and charging status of the control secondary battery and large-capacity secondary battery to onshore management facilities or onboard management facilities outside the power generation unit via (3) the communication control unit.

[0192] (10) Time Management Unit (10) The time management unit has a built-in radio clock, a battery-powered quartz clock, a programmable timer, a time measurement device, and a date storage device. (10) The time management unit is connected to the bus line of the control system, so it can communicate information about the date, time, and time with all other control units connected to the bus line of the control system.

[0193] (11) Management and control unit (11) The management control unit manages the operating status and performs fault diagnosis of all control units connected to the control system and the various devices connected to each control unit (power generation equipment, solar power generation panels, operating means, various devices, control secondary batteries, large-capacity secondary batteries, display means, communication equipment, GPS terminals, various antennas, various lighting means, radar, fish finders, sonar, imaging cameras, etc.).

[0194] The (11) management and control unit performs fault diagnosis of all control units connected to the control system and the various devices connected to each control unit during power-on sequence control, which starts when the control system is powered on, or during reset control when it is reset.The (11) management and control unit then monitors the operating status of all control units connected to the control system and the various devices connected to each control unit at a predetermined interval.The (11) management and control unit transmits the fault diagnosis results or operating status of all control units connected to the control system and the various devices connected to each control unit to (1) the overall control unit, (2) the artificial intelligence control unit, or a control system at a management center located on land or on a ship.Transmission to the management center control system outside the power generation device is performed via (3) the communication control unit.

[0195] (12) Environmental Observation and Control Unit (12) The environmental observation and control unit is connected to the power generation unit's internal temperature sensor, air pressure sensor, water temperature sensor, illuminance sensor, vibration sensor, sound collection microphone, internal water intrusion detection sensor, control secondary battery temperature sensor, large-capacity secondary battery temperature sensor, etc. The information detected by each sensor connected to the (12) environmental observation and control unit is shared with each control unit that makes up the control system via the control system's bus line.

[0196] For example, the (1) overall control unit and (2) artificial intelligence control unit perform optimal power generation control and initiate fault diagnosis based on the information detected by the (12) environmental observation control unit. Also, the power generation equipment control system at the management center located on land or on a ship can obtain the information detected by each sensor connected to the (12) environmental observation control unit via the (3) communication control unit of the power generation equipment, a satellite communication network, or a mobile communication network.

[0197] If the large-capacity secondary battery temperature sensor detects an abnormally high temperature, (1) the overall control unit, (2) the artificial intelligence control unit, or the wave power generation device control system in the management center located on land or on a ship will stop charging the large-capacity secondary battery and cut off the electrical connection between the control system and the large-capacity secondary battery. Also, if the control secondary battery temperature sensor detects an abnormally high temperature, it will stop charging the control secondary battery, cut off the electrical connection between the control system and the control secondary battery, and switch the power supply to the control system from the control secondary battery to the large-capacity secondary battery so that the control system is powered by the large-capacity secondary battery.

[0198] (13) External option control unit The (13) external option control unit is equipped with a predetermined number of external option connection connectors for connecting a predetermined number of external options. The external option connection connectors are connected to various devices installed outside the power generation unit (solar power generation panels, various antennas, surface lighting means, underwater lighting means, radar, fish finder, sonar, underwater cameras, surface cameras, underwater robots, surface drones, underwater temperature sensors, etc.) via waterproof connectors and waterproof electrical connection cables. The (13) external option control unit and the various devices connected to this (13) external option control unit can communicate with each other bidirectionally. The (13) external option control unit can send control instruction information to the various connected devices to control them. The various devices can also send response signals to control instructions and information detected or acquired by their own sensors, cameras, etc. to the (13) external option control unit. The signals and information acquired by the (13) external option control unit from the various devices are shared among the control units that make up the control system via the control system's bus line. In addition, response signals to control instructions sent from the various devices and information detected and acquired by sensors, cameras, etc. on the various devices can be sent to the wave power generator control system in the management center located on land or on a ship via the (13) external option control unit, (3) communication control unit, satellite communication network, or mobile communication network. Conversely, the wave power generator control system in the management center located on land or on a ship can send control instruction information for the various devices to the various devices via the satellite communication network, mobile communication network, the (3) communication control unit of the wave power generator, and (13) external option control unit, allowing the various devices to be remotely controlled.

[0199] Next, we will explain the multi-type power generation equipment and land-based EV charging stations. Figure 18 illustrates various types of power generation equipment (wind power generation equipment, solar power generation equipment, wave power generation equipment, underwater rotary power generation equipment) that generate electricity using natural energy installed at fishing ports and harbors, as well as EV charging stations installed on land at fishing ports and harbors. Having various types of power generation equipment is beneficial in dealing with changes in weather conditions, but not all types of power generation equipment are necessarily required. Only one type of power generation equipment is sufficient, or any number of types of power generation equipment can be combined to form a system.

[0200] One or more predetermined multiple vertical-axis wave power generators are moored on the surface of the water in a fishing port or harbor using mooring means consisting of a sinker means that also serves as a fish reef and a mooring rope. One or more predetermined multiple submersible rotary power generators are horizontally moored between the mooring rope that connects the vertical-axis wave power generator on the surface of the water and the sinker that also serves as a fish reef in deeper water. While Figure 18 illustrates multiple vertical-axis wave power generators and multiple submersible rotary power generators installed side by side, both are not necessarily required. The power generator may consist of only one or several vertical-axis wave power generators, or one or several submersible rotary power generators. In the case of only submersible rotary power generators, any number of submersible rotary power generators can be moored using swivels, mooring ropes, etc. to the mooring rope that connects the sinker that also serves as a fish reef and a buoy floating on the water surface.

[0201] In addition, in Figure 18, the sinkers that double as fish reefs mooring the vertical-axis wave power generators and the submersible rotary power generators are shown floating in the water, but they may also be installed on the water bottom. A pair of surface mooring devices are arranged on both sides of the multiple vertical-axis wave power generators and the multiple submersible rotary power generators. The surface mooring device has a self-propelled mechanism installed underwater, a GPS device and lighting means installed above the water, and a secondary battery that supplies power to the self-propelled mechanism, the GPS device, and the lighting means. The secondary battery receives power from the multiple vertical-axis wave power generators and the multiple submersible rotary power generators via a power transmission cable. The surface mooring device is moored by a sinker that doubles as a fish reef installed on the water bottom. Since the artificial surface mooring device has a self-propelled mechanism, a sinker that doubles as a fish reef installed on the water bottom is not necessary. Even if it is swept away by a tidal current, it can return to the position stored in the GPS device using the self-propelled mechanism and remain at approximately the same fixed point. The surface mooring device is also supplied with power from multiple vertical-axis wave power generators and multiple submersible rotary power generators via power transmission cables. Furthermore, the surface mooring means closest to the large-capacity storage battery on land supplies the power generated by the multiple vertical-axis wave power generators and multiple submersible rotary power generators via power transmission cables to the large-capacity storage battery on land, charging the large-capacity storage battery. The lighting means of the surface mooring means can emit light to let others know the position of the surface mooring means above the water surface.

[0202] A vertical-axis wave power generator generates electricity by tilting intermittently due to waves generated on the water surface in a fishing port or harbor, causing the weight of the internal power generation mechanism to rotate. A wind-receiving member is attached to the top of the vertical-axis wave power generator, so the wind can also tilt the vertical-axis wave power generator, allowing it to generate electricity.

[0203] In addition, an underwater rotary power generation device installed underwater in a fishing port or harbor has a predetermined number of fins attached to its housing that rotate in response to the currents generated underwater in the fishing port or harbor, and a power generation mechanism unit attached to the housing generates electricity.

[0204] In vertical-axis wave power generation devices and underwater rotary power generation devices, the electricity generated in the internal power generation mechanism is extracted from the housing via slip rings and power transmission cables, and ultimately transmitted to a large-capacity storage battery installed on land. Because the large-capacity rechargeable battery is installed on land rather than on the water, a large-capacity storage battery weighing one to several tons can be installed without being limited by weight or volume.

[0205] The large-capacity storage battery may be a lithium-ion battery, a solid-state battery, a nickel-cadmium storage battery, a nickel-metal hydride battery, a lead-acid battery, or a NAS battery, as long as it is a rechargeable secondary battery. However, it is generally difficult to reduce the cost and increase the size of these secondary batteries. To achieve a large capacity at a relatively low cost, it is desirable to use a liquid battery.

[0206] Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRF) are already in practical use as storage batteries that store energy in a liquid. Compared to lithium-ion batteries, VRFs are characterized by high safety and a long lifespan. On the other hand, VRFs have the disadvantage of only having about one-tenth the energy density of lithium-ion batteries. However, if there are no restrictions on the size of the installation space, a storage battery that is stable, long-lasting, and capable of large-capacity charging and discharging can be realized by preparing a large-capacity VRF tank and storing a large amount of VRF in that tank.

[0207] At the Battery Symposium, a battery technology conference held in Osaka at the end of November 2023, battery startup ARM Technologies announced a new type of flow battery (liquid battery) capable of storing energy in liquid fuels that remain liquid at room temperature and pressure, achieving an energy density (300Wh / L) more than 10 times greater than that of existing VRFs. This new liquid battery uses oxygen as the positive electrode, and a hydrogen storage alloy (mainly composed of lanthanum and nickel) finely dispersed in water as the negative electrode and energy storage medium. The hydrogen storage alloy is a powder measuring 10 to 20 micrometers (a micrometer is one millionth of a meter). Hydrogen storage alloy liquid batteries are charged and discharged by placing the liquid battery in a device called a "cell" that contains a catalyst and other components. Because the charging medium is liquid, charged hydrogen storage alloy liquid batteries can be packed into tanks and transported by ship or truck. The charged hydrogen storage alloy liquid battery can also be filled into tanks by using a pump to flow it through pipes or tubes.

[0208] For the large-capacity electricity storage means in FIG. 18, it is desirable to use a vanadium redox flow battery (VRF), which is a liquid battery, or the aforementioned hydrogen storage alloy liquid battery.

[0209] It is desirable to provide the large-capacity storage battery with a control system including a communication means and a communication antenna. The control system is equipped with an information processing device and a storage means, and operates on power supplied from the large-capacity storage battery. Sensors that monitor the charging and discharging status of the large-capacity storage battery are connected to the control system. The control system can transmit the output of the sensors that monitor the charging and discharging status of the large-capacity storage battery to a management facility on land via the communication means.

[0210] The large-capacity storage battery is equipped with a power storage status monitoring means for monitoring the power storage status of the large-capacity storage battery, a wireless or wired communication means for transmitting the output data of the power storage status monitoring means (charging voltage on the charging side, output voltage on the output side, power storage amount of the large-capacity storage battery, fault diagnosis results of the large-capacity storage battery, temperature of the large-capacity storage battery, air temperature around the large-capacity storage battery, and deterioration status of the large-capacity storage battery) to a monitoring center installed on land or on water, and an antenna required for wireless communication.At the monitoring center, specialized engineers can remotely and constantly grasp the output data of the power storage status monitoring means (charging voltage on the charging side, output voltage on the output side, power storage amount of the large-capacity storage battery, fault diagnosis results of the large-capacity storage battery, temperature of the large-capacity storage battery, air temperature around the large-capacity storage battery, and deterioration status of the large-capacity storage battery), and can take appropriate action depending on the situation.

[0211] Around the large-capacity storage battery are installed solar panels that generate electricity from sunlight, impellers that rotate when exposed to wind power, and wind turbines that generate electricity using the rotational force of the impellers. The electricity generated by the solar panels and the wind turbines is stored in the large-capacity storage battery installed on land as mentioned above. The output of the large-capacity storage battery is connected to an EV charger that charges the batteries of EVs (electric vehicles that have a battery and a motor and are driven by the motor) and PHVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles). It is desirable to install as many EV chargers as possible, with a predetermined number of chargers being at least one.

[0212] In addition to receiving power from various renewable energy generators, EV chargers are also connected to 100V or 200V commercial AC power sources in parallel. This serves as a backup in the event that the power supply from the various renewable energy generators is insufficient or the large-capacity storage battery runs out of power due to continuous power supply to multiple EVs. However, for the sake of the global environment, it is desirable to prioritize the use of power from the various renewable energy generators over commercial AC power sources. For example, when the storage capacity of the large-capacity storage battery is above a first predetermined value, all EV chargers could perform normal and rapid charging using renewable energy. Once the storage capacity reaches a second predetermined value, rapid charging could be discontinued and only normal charging would be performed. Alternatively, instead of discontinuing rapid charging, the number of available EV chargers could be reduced. Furthermore, if the amount of stored electricity reaches a third predetermined value that is lower than the second predetermined value, it is desirable to gradually restrict the use of the EV charger, such as by charging the EV charger using power supplied from a commercial AC power source.

[0213] It is desirable to install indicator lights and character displays on EV chargers so that users of the EV charger can tell whether the power being charged is derived from natural energy or from a commercial power source. It is also desirable for the indicator lights and character displays to enable users of the EV charger to tell whether the power being charged is derived from natural energy or from a commercial power source when they are about to start charging. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide a selection means that allows users of the EV charger to choose between rapid charging and normal charging when charging an EV with power derived from natural energy.

[0214] It is also desirable to set up an EV charger management system to record management data on the status of EV charging. Examples of management data include the type of charging performed (rapid charging or normal charging), the year, month, and time for each EV charger, whether the power used was renewable energy or commercial AC power, charging time, and malfunction history. It is also desirable to be able to print out this management data on the status of EV charging or to transmit it to a remote location via communication means.

[0215] Next, we will explain the power sources of the multi-type power generation equipment and EV charging stations. FIG. 19 illustrates a power supply system diagram in which power is supplied to an EV charging station from a variety of different types of power generation devices. Wind turbines generate electricity by receiving energy from wind power. The electricity generated is supplied to a large-capacity storage battery via a power transmission cable, where it is charged. The electricity supplied by wind turbines is AC, so it must be converted to DC voltage (e.g., 15V) suitable for charging the large-capacity storage battery. Therefore, a power conditioner that converts AC voltage to DC voltage is installed between the wind turbine and the large-capacity storage battery. There may be one power conditioner, or multiple power conditioners arranged in parallel or series.

[0216] A solar power generation system receives energy from sunlight and generates electricity. The electricity generated is supplied to a large-capacity storage battery via a power transmission cable, where it is charged. The electricity supplied by the solar power generation system is direct current with a predetermined voltage (typically 12 V), and therefore must be converted to a DC voltage (e.g., 15 V) suitable for charging the large-capacity storage battery. Therefore, a power conditioner is provided between the solar power generation system and the large-capacity storage battery to convert the DC voltage (typically 12 V) output by the solar power generation system into a DC voltage (e.g., 15 V) suitable for charging the large-capacity storage battery. A single power conditioner may be used, or multiple power conditioners may be arranged in parallel or in series.

[0217] The wave power generator, a vertical-axis wave power generator that receives energy from waves to generate electricity, generates electricity and supplies it to a large-capacity storage battery via a power transmission cable, where it charges the battery. Because the power supplied by the wave power generator is AC, it must be converted to DC voltage (e.g., 15V) suitable for charging the large-capacity storage battery. Therefore, a power conditioner that converts AC voltage to DC voltage is installed between the wave power generator and the large-capacity storage battery. There may be one power conditioner, or multiple power conditioners arranged in parallel or series.

[0218] The power generated by the underwater rotary power generation device, which generates electricity using tidal energy, is supplied to a large-capacity storage battery via a power transmission cable and charges the battery. The power supplied by the underwater rotary power generation device is AC, so it needs to be converted to DC voltage (e.g., 15 V) suitable for charging the large-capacity storage battery. Therefore, a power conditioner that converts AC voltage to DC voltage is installed between the underwater rotary power generation device and the large-capacity storage battery. There may be one power conditioner, or multiple power conditioners arranged in parallel or series.

[0219] The electricity stored in the large-capacity storage battery is supplied to an EV charger via a power transmission cable. The EV charger uses this electricity to charge an EV (electric vehicle) that has an electric motor and a battery such as a lithium-ion battery. When an EV charger charges an EV in high-speed mode, it charges with three-phase 200V AC, for example. In normal charging mode, which takes longer to charge than in high-speed mode, it charges with single-phase 200V AC or single-phase 100V AC.

[0220] Therefore, a power conditioner is required to convert the DC output voltage (e.g., 15V) of the large-capacity storage battery into three-phase 200V AC, single-phase 200V AC, or single-phase 100V AC, which the EV charger uses to charge the EV. The power conditioner is installed between the output side of the large-capacity storage battery and the EV charger. There can be one power conditioner, or multiple power conditioners arranged in parallel or series.

[0221] In case the stored power of the large-capacity storage battery becomes low, or in case the large-capacity storage battery or its output side power conditioner fails, the EV charger is connected to a three-phase commercial AC power supply (200V / 100V) or a single-phase commercial AC power supply (200V / 100V). However, a three-phase commercial AC power supply or a single-phase commercial AC power supply is not required and is not necessary.

[0222] Although not shown in Figure 19, a charge control means is provided on the input side of the large-capacity storage battery. The charge control means controls the charging voltage and current according to the state of the large-capacity storage battery in order to achieve maximum charging efficiency in the shortest time. Therefore, the charge control means controls the charging of the large-capacity storage battery using a method called the constant current constant voltage (CVCC) method, which involves three charging stages (bulk charging, absorb charging, and floating charging).

[0223] Bulk charging Bulk charging is the stage where charging is performed using the maximum charging current that the charging side can output. At this stage, it is the same as constant current charging (CC), and continues until the maximum charging voltage of the large-capacity battery (for example, 5V) is reached. If the large-capacity battery is nearly empty, bulk charging takes time. Conversely, if it is nearly fully charged, the maximum voltage is reached quickly and bulk charging ends. When the large-capacity storage battery reaches its maximum voltage, the charging control means controls the battery so that bulk charging ends and the battery switches to absorb charging.

[0224] Absorb Charge At the start of absorb charging, the large-capacity storage battery has reached its maximum voltage due to the previous bulk charging, so if the charging current is maintained at maximum, it will be overcharged. Therefore, the current is gradually reduced. However, if the current is reduced suddenly, the voltage will fall below the maximum and charging efficiency will decrease. Therefore, in absorb charging, the charge control means controls the charging so that it maintains a charging current that is necessary and sufficient to maintain the maximum voltage. This is the same as constant voltage (CV) charging. By the time absorb charging is complete, the maximum voltage can be maintained even with a small charging current, and at this point the battery is fully charged. Once fully charged, the battery moves into the final floating charging stage.

[0225] Floating charging Floating charging is a method of constantly supplementing the battery to prevent natural discharge. The charge control means switches the voltage from the maximum voltage up to absorb charge (e.g., 15V) to the float voltage (e.g., 14V). Then, charging continues with a small current necessary to maintain the float voltage. If a load is placed on the large-capacity battery, the charger will try to maintain the float voltage by passing more current. If the load becomes too great and a certain amount of current is not applied, full charge cannot be maintained, and control is exercised to switch back to bulk charge.

[0226] Next, we will explain the various types of power generation equipment, floating large-capacity storage batteries, and land-based EV charging stations. Figure 18 illustrates an onshore EV charging station in which ocean energy-derived electricity generated by a vertical-axis wave power generator or a submersible rotary power generator placed on or underwater is supplied to a large-capacity battery on land via a mooring device and a power transmission cable, and then the large-capacity battery supplies the ocean energy-derived electricity to an EV charger. When a vertical-axis wave power generator or a submersible rotary power generator is placed in a fishing port or harbor, it is relatively easy to implement because the distance between the vertical-axis wave power generator or the submersible rotary power generator and the large-capacity battery on land is short. However, when the distance between the vertical-axis wave power generator or the submersible rotary power generator placed on or underwater and the large-capacity battery on land is several kilometers or even tens of kilometers, a long power transmission cable is required, which can make implementation difficult.

[0227] Figure 20 illustrates a land-based EV charging station that can be implemented even when the distance between a vertical axis wave power generation device or an underwater rotary power generation device placed on or underwater and a large-capacity storage battery on land is several kilometers or even tens of kilometers.

[0228] In the onshore EV charging station shown in Figure 20, electricity derived from ocean energy generated by vertical axis wave power generation devices or submersible rotary power generation devices placed on or underwater is first charged into a floating large-capacity storage battery floating on the water. The floating large-capacity storage battery may be a manned ship with self-propelled capabilities or an unmanned ship. In the case of an unmanned ship, it may or may not have self-propelled capabilities. In the case of an unmanned ship with self-propelled capabilities, its movement is controlled by remote control or it moves autonomously using artificial intelligence. In the case of an unmanned ship without self-propelled capabilities, it is towed and moved by another manned ship.

[0229] The batteries of the floating large-capacity storage battery can be the same as those described above for use in the large-capacity storage battery installed on land. However, the batteries of the floating large-capacity storage battery and the large-capacity storage battery installed on land do not have to be the same. Depending on the specifications required for each, the batteries of the floating large-capacity storage battery and the large-capacity storage battery installed on land may be different types of batteries or may have different capacities.

[0230] A fully charged floating large-capacity battery is moved to the vicinity of a large-capacity battery on land, either by self-propelled or towed by a ship, etc. Then, as shown in Figure 20, the floating large-capacity battery charges the large-capacity battery on land via a power transmission cable.

[0231] The storage capacity of the floating large-capacity battery is preferably greater than or approximately equal to that of the onshore large-capacity battery. However, the storage capacity of the floating large-capacity battery may be smaller than that of the onshore large-capacity battery. A single floating large-capacity battery is sufficient, or a specified number of floating large-capacity batteries may be provided. If multiple floating large-capacity batteries are provided, one or more floating large-capacity batteries can be charged while another charged floating large-capacity battery simultaneously charges an onshore large-capacity battery. Each floating large-capacity battery and the onshore large-capacity battery are equipped with a wireless communication device, a wireless communication antenna, and a storage status monitoring means. The storage status monitoring means can transmit output data from each storage status monitoring means (charging voltage on the charging side, output voltage on the output side, storage capacity of the large-capacity battery, fault diagnosis results for the large-capacity battery, temperature of the large-capacity battery, air temperature around the large-capacity battery, and deterioration status of the large-capacity battery) to a monitoring center on board or onshore via the wireless communication device and wireless communication antenna. At the monitoring center, specialized engineers grasp the status of each large-capacity storage battery and instruct the floating large-capacity storage battery's control means and crew to start, stop, or interrupt charging from the vertical axis wave power generation device and the underwater rotary power generation device, start moving toward land, etc. Also, at the monitoring center, specialized engineers grasp the status of the large-capacity storage batteries on land and instruct the floating large-capacity storage battery's control means and crew to start, stop, or interrupt charging of the large-capacity storage batteries on land, start moving toward the offshore power generation device, etc.

[0232] The on-shore EV charging station with a predetermined number of floating large-capacity storage batteries shown in Fig. 20 functions well even when the wave power generation device or the underwater rotary power generation device is located close to land. For example, it also functions when the wave power generation device or the underwater rotary power generation device is located in a fishing port or harbor as shown in Fig. 19.

[0233] Furthermore, an onshore EV charging station having a predetermined number of floating large-capacity storage batteries as shown in Figure 20 can supply electricity derived from natural energy by moving the movable floating large-capacity storage batteries to each location, even if multiple onshore-installed large-capacity storage batteries and their associated equipment (e.g., EV chargers) are scattered across different locations on land. For example, the floating large-capacity storage batteries can be moved to the large-capacity storage batteries of an onshore hydrogen production filling station (described later) as shown in Figure 21, or to the large-capacity storage batteries of a hydrogen production carrier ship (as shown in Figure 22) or a hydrogen production filling ship (as shown in Figure 23) anchored on the water, to supply electricity derived from natural energy. Furthermore, the floating large-capacity battery can be self-propelled or towed to supply a predetermined amount of power to the large-capacity battery of a hydrogen production and filling station moored at a certain point on the water as shown in Figure 24, or can move near the large-capacity battery of a hydrogen production and filling platform on a floating platform, which is a physical structure as shown in Figure 25, to charge the large-capacity battery, or can move near the large-capacity battery on a hydrogen filling ship, which is a physical structure as shown in Figure 26, to charge the large-capacity battery.It can also move near the large-capacity battery of a floating hydrogen filling platform, which is a physical structure on the water as shown in Figure 27, to charge the large-capacity battery.In this way, the floating large-capacity battery can be moved to supply renewable energy-derived power to multiple land-based hydrogen filling stations or multiple floating hydrogen filling stations, which will be described later.

[0234] The power generation system shown in Figure 20, which is composed of a wave power generation device and an underwater rotary power generation device, charges a floating large-capacity storage battery, and once fully charged, the floating large-capacity storage battery can be moved to any location to deliver electricity derived from natural energy. For example, it can be self-propelled or towed to deliver electricity derived from natural energy to floating or land-based fish farming facilities, floating fish farming facilities equipped with electric automatic feeders and lighting devices, homes on remote islands and facilities requiring electricity installed on remote islands (e.g., mobile phone communication relay stations and lighthouses), floating homes, ports and fishing ports in disaster-stricken areas, etc.

[0235] Next, we will explain how to generate electricity on the water using marine energy and how to organize land-based EV charging stations. Onshore EV charging stations, which are onshore EV charging bases located on land, charge EVs and PHVs (plug-in hybrid vehicles), which are power consumers such as electric vehicles, using an EV charger, which is a charging means. Onshore EV charging stations require electricity to charge the power consumers, and it is desirable that this power source be electricity derived from natural energy generated from solar energy, wind energy, wave energy, or tidal energy. Therefore, onshore EV charging stations are equipped with large-capacity storage batteries, which are large-capacity storage means for storing electricity derived from natural energy generated from marine energy such as wave energy and tidal energy, as well as solar energy and wind energy. The electricity derived from natural energy is extracted from the large-capacity storage means and supplied to an EV charger, which is a charging means, to charge the storage means of the power consumers.

[0236] Among natural energy sources, ocean energy can provide a stable and sufficient supply of energy, so it is desirable to install one or more wave power generation devices on the water that generate electricity using wave energy, or one or more submersible rotary power generation devices that generate electricity using tidal energy underwater or on the water, to generate electricity from ocean energy and store it in a large-capacity storage device at an on-shore EV charging station. The large-capacity storage device can be a floating large-capacity storage battery installed on the water, but installing it on land allows for the installation of a larger, more stable large-capacity storage battery. The power generation device installed on the water that generates electricity using ocean energy and the large-capacity storage battery installed on land are connected by a power transmission cable, and electricity derived from ocean energy is supplied from the water to the on-shore EV charging station.

[0237] If a power generation device that uses marine energy can be installed in a fishing port, harbor, or offshore, this is convenient because it allows the transmission cable to be shortened. However, a power generation device that uses marine energy can also be installed on or underwater, far from land. In this case, instead of a transmission cable, a floating large-capacity storage battery, which is a mobile power transfer device, transfers the electricity generated by the marine energy from the power generation device that uses marine energy to the onshore EV charging station and stores it in the large-capacity storage device of the onshore EV charging station. The floating large-capacity storage device may be mobile by self-propelled means or may be towed by another vessel.

[0238] It is desirable for all electricity at land-based EV charging stations to be supplied from renewable energy sources, but a commercial AC power source may also be installed as a backup power source.

[0239] Between each power generation means, such as solar power generation means, wind power generation means, wave power generation means, and tidal power generation means, and the large-capacity storage means, there is provided a power conditioner, which is a power conversion means that converts the output of each power generation means into a power state suitable for charging the large-capacity storage means. In addition, there is also a power conversion means between the large-capacity storage means and the EV charger, which is a charging means.

[0240] Each of the onshore EV charging station and the floating large-capacity storage means has a communication means and an antenna, and can transmit information about each of them to a monitoring center on land or on water in real time via the communication means. The transmitted information preferably includes each of their identification information, power storage information of each of their large-capacity storage means, operation information about their operating status, fault diagnosis result information of each of their respective means, current location information of each of their means, and the moving speed of the floating large-capacity storage means while it is moving.

[0241] Next, we will explain the wave power generation device, the underwater rotary power generation device, and the land-based hydrogen production and filling station. Figure 21 shows a hydrogen filling station that obtains electricity from ocean energy from a power generation system consisting of a vertical-axis wave power generation device placed on the water and a submersible rotary wave power generation device placed underwater, uses that electricity to produce hydrogen on land, and fills FCVs (fuel cell vehicles) with hydrogen. In addition to the wave power generation device and the submersible rotary power generation device, Figure 21 also shows a solar power generation device, but a wind power generation device that generates electricity using wind power may also be installed. A commercial AC power source (200V / 100V) may also be installed as a backup power source for the hydrogen production device.

[0242] A specific configuration of the onshore hydrogen production and filling station shown in FIG. 21 will be described. One or more vertical-axis wave power generation devices are moored with mooring ropes to a sinker that also serves as a fish reef on the water surface of a fishing port or harbor, or in the vicinity thereof. One or more submersible rotary power generation devices are moored to the mooring ropes via swivels and mooring ropes. Electricity generated by each of the vertical-axis wave power generation device and the submersible rotary power generation device using ocean energy is transmitted and stored in a large-capacity storage battery installed on land via a waterproof power transmission cable, a surface mooring device, and a waterproof power transmission cable. The ocean energy-derived electricity stored in the large-capacity storage battery is supplied to a hydrogen production device via a power transmission cable (not shown). The ocean energy-derived electricity stored in the large-capacity storage battery is also supplied to all power-requiring equipment in the onshore hydrogen filling station. Tap water is supplied to the hydrogen production device from the water supply system. After being purified using ion exchange resin or the like, the water is electrolyzed in an electrolyzer using the aforementioned ocean energy-derived electricity. The hydrogen gas generated at the cathode as a result of the electrolysis of water is dehumidified and then compressed (for example, to 700 atmospheres) in a hydrogen compressor. The compressed hydrogen gas is then transported via pipes to a hydrogen storage tank for storage.

[0243] The hydrogen production device serving as the hydrogen gas production means is preferably, for example, an on-site water electrolysis hydrogen generation device "HydroSpring" (registered trademark) manufactured and sold by Hitachi Zosen Corporation.

[0244] When supplying hydrogen to an FCV (fuel cell vehicle), a predetermined amount of hydrogen gas is extracted from a hydrogen storage tank, cooled in a pre-cooler (for example, to -40°C), and then filled into the FCV using a hydrogen filling machine.

[0245] The hydrogen production and filling station shown in Figure 21 is configured to use electricity generated from marine energy, a type of natural energy, to store in large-capacity storage batteries on land, produce hydrogen gas in a hydrogen production device on land, and then fill the produced hydrogen gas into FCVs using a hydrogen gas filling machine. The hydrogen filling target is not limited to FCVs; it can also be used to fill hydrogen storage tanks mounted on trailers for transporting hydrogen gas.

[0246] In addition to a power generation device that generates electricity using marine energy, Figure 21 also illustrates a solar power generation device. Furthermore, wind power generation devices that generate electricity using wind energy can be installed on land or on water. A power conditioner, as shown in Figure 19, is installed between the various power generation devices and the large-capacity storage battery. The generated power is converted to a predetermined DC voltage (e.g., 15 V) for charging the large-capacity storage battery. The method for converting the output of each power generation device using the power conditioner is as explained in the "Power System Diagram of Multiple Power Generation Devices and EV Charging System" section above. The output of the large-capacity storage battery (e.g., 15 V) is also converted by the power conditioner to match the power supply specifications of the hydrogen production device. In the case of Hitachi Zosen Corporation's "HydroSpring" (registered trademark) mentioned above, the output of the large-capacity storage battery (e.g., 15 V) is converted by the power conditioner to three-phase AC 200 V or three-phase AC 400 V.

[0247] The large-capacity storage batteries installed on land can be the same as those used in the land-based EV charging system shown in Figure 18. Specifically, they may be lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lead-acid batteries, or NAS batteries. They may also be liquid batteries such as vanadium redox flow batteries (VRF) or hydrogen storage alloy liquid batteries.

[0248] It is also desirable to provide the large-capacity storage battery with a control system including a communication means and a communication antenna. The control system is a control system such as that shown in Figure 17, which is equipped with an information processing device and a storage means and operates on power supplied from the large-capacity storage battery. Sensors that monitor the charging and discharging status of the large-capacity storage battery are connected to the control system. This control system can transmit the output of the sensors that monitor the charging and discharging status of the large-capacity storage battery to a management facility on land via the communication means.

[0249] The large-capacity storage battery is equipped with a power storage status monitoring means for monitoring the power storage status of the large-capacity storage battery, a wireless or wired communication means for transmitting the output data of the power storage status monitoring means (charging voltage on the charging side, output voltage on the output side, power storage amount of the large-capacity storage battery, fault diagnosis results of the large-capacity storage battery, temperature of the large-capacity storage battery, air temperature around the large-capacity storage battery, and deterioration status of the large-capacity storage battery) to a monitoring center installed on land or on water, and an antenna required for wireless communication.At the monitoring center, specialized engineers can remotely and constantly grasp the output data of the power storage status monitoring means (charging voltage on the charging side, output voltage on the output side, power storage amount of the large-capacity storage battery, fault diagnosis results of the large-capacity storage battery, temperature of the large-capacity storage battery, air temperature around the large-capacity storage battery, and deterioration status of the large-capacity storage battery), and can take appropriate action depending on the situation.

[0250] Next, we will explain about wave power generation equipment, underwater rotary power generation equipment, hydrogen production carriers, and land-based hydrogen filling stations. Figure 22 shows a system in which electricity generated by a vertical axis wave power generation device and an underwater rotary power generation device using ocean energy is stored on the water in large-capacity storage batteries installed on a mobile hydrogen production carrier, and hydrogen gas produced on the water is supplied to a hydrogen filling station installed on land. In the system shown in Figure 22, even if the power generation device that generates electricity using ocean energy is located quite far from land, clean hydrogen gas produced on the water can be supplied to a hydrogen filling station on land using ocean energy.

[0251] First, we will explain the hydrogen production carrier, which is a major difference from the system shown in Figure 21. The hydrogen production carrier is equipped with a large-capacity storage battery for storing electricity generated by marine energy, a freshwater tank (not shown), a hydrogen production unit, a hydrogen compressor, and a hydrogen storage tank. Instead of a freshwater tank, seawater can be pumped up and distilled using the aforementioned electricity to produce pure water, which can then be electrolyzed in the hydrogen production unit. In Figure 22, a solar power generation unit is also installed on the hydrogen production carrier, and the large-capacity storage battery can also be charged from the solar power generation unit.

[0252] On the other hand, hydrogen filling stations installed on land are equipped with hydrogen storage tanks, pre-coolers, and hydrogen filling machines, and are capable of filling FCVs with hydrogen.The power source for onshore hydrogen filling stations can be commercial AC power, or it can be powered by large-capacity storage batteries that store electricity generated from naturally occurring energy.

[0253] The hydrogen production carrier shown in Figure 22 produces hydrogen gas by electrolyzing water from a freshwater tank or pure water obtained by distilling seawater using power from a large-capacity storage battery, and then compresses the produced hydrogen gas (for example, to 700 atmospheres) and stores it in a hydrogen storage tank. After storing a predetermined amount of hydrogen gas in the hydrogen storage tank at sea, the self-propelled hydrogen production carrier approaches an onshore hydrogen filling system and supplies hydrogen gas, cooled to -40°C in a pre-cooler, from the hydrogen storage tank on the hydrogen production carrier to the onshore hydrogen storage tank via pipes or hoses. The hydrogen production carrier can be anchored near the onshore hydrogen filling system and continue to supply hydrogen gas to the onshore hydrogen filling station.

[0254] In addition, the hydrogen production carrier can be self-propelled or towed to supply a predetermined amount of hydrogen gas to the hydrogen storage tank of an onshore hydrogen filling station, and then move to another onshore hydrogen filling station and supply a predetermined amount of hydrogen gas to the hydrogen storage tank of that other onshore hydrogen filling station.In this way, the hydrogen production carrier can move and supply hydrogen gas to several onshore hydrogen filling stations or to the floating hydrogen filling station described below.

[0255] As the number of hydrogen fuel cell ships increases, many floating hydrogen filling stations will be needed to fill these ships with hydrogen gas on the water. A floating hydrogen filling station is located on a floating body such as a ship, or on a moored floating body, or on a platform, which is a physical structure installed on stilts fixed to the bottom of the water, and is equipped with large-capacity batteries, hydrogen storage tanks, pre-coolers, hydrogen filling machines, and power chargers. The hydrogen storage tanks, pre-coolers, and hydrogen filling machines are operated using electricity derived from natural energy stored in the large-capacity batteries.

[0256] The hydrogen production carrier, which is also a physical structure shown in Figure 22, can also charge large-capacity storage batteries installed on board the hydrogen production carrier to large-capacity storage batteries at land-based and floating hydrogen filling stations.

[0257] Next, we will explain the marine energy power generation device and the floating hydrogen production and filling system. In addition to automobiles, which are a means of land transportation, there is a growing demand for hydrogen fuel cell ships as a clean, carbon dioxide-free means of water transportation. Hydrogen fuel cell ships have an electrical charging port, lithium-ion batteries, a hydrogen tank, a hydrogen fuel cell chamber, a propulsion motor, etc. In hydrogen fuel cell ships, hydrogen is sent from the hydrogen tank to the hydrogen fuel cell chamber, where it generates electricity through a chemical reaction with oxygen in the air. The generated electricity is used to charge the lithium-ion batteries and drive the propulsion motor for propulsion. Therefore, hydrogen fuel cell ships are a clean means of transportation that does not produce carbon dioxide. Hydrogen fuel cell ships include hydrogen fuel cell fishing boats, hydrogen fuel cell ferries, hydrogen fuel cell tourist boats, hydrogen fuel cell leisure boats, and hydrogen fuel cell ferries. As the number of hydrogen fuel cell ships increases, more and more sophisticated floating hydrogen filling stations will be required.

[0258] Figure 23 illustrates an ocean energy power generation system consisting of a vertical axis wave power generation device and an underwater rotary power generation device, and a floating hydrogen production and filling station consisting of a hydrogen production and filling ship, which is a physical structure. The hydrogen production carrier shown in Figure 22 has a large-capacity storage battery, hydrogen production equipment, hydrogen compressor, hydrogen storage tank, pre-cooler, etc. on a floating body, which is a physical structure such as a ship. We will now explain a floating hydrogen production and filling station that has been constructed by adding a hydrogen filling machine, power charger, and light-emitting / display device to the hydrogen production carrier.

[0259] In other words, the floating hydrogen production and filling station shown in Figure 23 adds light-emitting / display devices, a hydrogen filling machine, a power charger, a fish finder / sonar, and various underwater observation sensors to the configuration of the hydrogen production and carrier ship shown in Figure 22, resulting in a floating multi-functional hydrogen production and filling ship that can also be used as a multi-functional floating hydrogen filling station.

[0260] The hydrogen production and filling ship shown in FIG. 23 is placed at a predetermined location on the water, such as in a fishing port, harbor, offshore, or in the open ocean, completely away from land, and functions as a floating hydrogen production and filling station.

[0261] Another embodiment of a floating hydrogen filling station is one in which the station is not built on a ship, but on a floating body moored to a mooring means (Figures 24 and 26), or on an offshore platform with pillars attached to the seabed (Figures 25 and 27).These floating physical structures can be equipped with a large-capacity storage battery, hydrogen production equipment, freshwater tanks or seawater pumps and seawater distillation equipment, hydrogen gas compressors, hydrogen storage tanks, pre-coolers, hydrogen filling machines, power chargers, light-emitting and display means, fish finders and sonar, and various underwater observation sensors to create a floating multi-functional hydrogen production and filling station.

[0262] Figure 23 shows a multifunctional hydrogen production and filling ship equipped with a self-propelled vessel and equipped with a large-capacity storage battery, hydrogen production equipment, freshwater tank or seawater pump and seawater distillation equipment, hydrogen gas compressor, hydrogen storage tank, pre-cooler, hydrogen filling machine, power charger, light emitting and display means, fish finder, sonar, and various underwater observation sensors (underwater sound collecting microphone, underwater speaker, underwater lighting, underwater camera, underwater temperature sensor, tidal current sensor, vibration sensor, salinity sensor).The illustration also shows the multifunctional hydrogen production and filling ship, which is a floating hydrogen production and filling station, filling hydrogen gas into a hydrogen fuel cell ship at sea.

[0263] The role of a floating hydrogen filling station is to reliably fill fuel cell vessels with hydrogen gas and supply them with electricity. Therefore, it is necessary to disseminate information about the location of the floating hydrogen filling station, the amount of hydrogen gas the hydrogen filling station has available to fill fuel cell vessels, and the amount of electricity the hydrogen filling station can fill fuel cell vessels over as wide an area as possible. Therefore, hydrogen filling stations should obtain this information from their GPS devices, sensors that detect the amount of hydrogen gas stored in hydrogen storage tanks, and sensors that detect the amount of electricity stored in large-capacity batteries, and then transmit this information over as wide an area as possible (e.g., 100 km square) via their wireless communication means and antennas. Specifically, the information to be transmitted over a wide area (for example, 100 km square) via digital wireless communication includes (1) the hydrogen filling station's identification number (name), (2) GPS location information, the amount of hydrogen gas that can be filled (enough for how many fuel cell ships), (3) the amount of electricity that can be charged (enough for how many fuel cell ships), (4) the amount of gas and the time when the amount of electricity was measured, and (5) the cost information for hydrogen gas and electricity.In addition to transmitting information via digital wireless communication, it is also desirable to transmit information via other means, such as FM or AM broadcasting, in case of poor signal conditions or the fuel cell ship not being equipped with digital wireless communication means.

[0264] It is also desirable to provide a light-emitting / illuminating means at a high position on the floating hydrogen filling station so that the location of the floating hydrogen filling station can be indicated by light, the remaining amount of hydrogen gas can be indicated by the color of the light-emitting lighting device (blue: sufficient, yellow: low, red: unable to fill), or the remaining amount of charging power can be indicated by making the light-emitting lighting device flash a specific color (blue flashing: sufficient, yellow flashing: low, red flashing: unable to fill).

[0265] Furthermore, since floating hydrogen filling stations remain in specific locations for long periods of time, it is desirable to collect and provide external observation data on the surrounding area. Each floating hydrogen filling station shown in Figures 23, 24, 25, 26, and 27 is equipped with underwater fish finders, sonar, and various observation sensors (underwater temperature, current velocity, and salinity sensors). Although not shown, each floating hydrogen filling station also has weather information sensors (temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, wind, and light) on the surface. The information detected by these sensors is collected by the control system of each floating hydrogen filling station (shown in Figure 28). The information is then added to the GPS location information from the GPS terminal, the time information from the time management unit, and the fish finder and sonar control unit's fish finder images and sonar signal charts. The communication control unit then transmits the information via antennas to nearby fishing boats, other ships, the floating hydrogen filling station management center on land, the fisheries cooperative, the Japan Meteorological Agency, and the Transport Bureau.

[0266] Specific transmitted information includes information collected by fish finders and sonar (images, signal waveforms), underwater temperature, current speed, seawater salinity, air temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind speed, wind direction, turning information, GPS location information, information on the time of information acquisition, identification information of the floating hydrogen filling station where the information was acquired, etc. This information may be broadcast on FM or AM radio from the floating hydrogen filling station, which is a floating hydrogen filling point.

[0267] Next, we will explain the floating hydrogen production and filling system. Figure 24 shows a mooring means on the water, which is installed on the bottom of the water and has a support pole that reaches above the water surface, a float through which the support pole passes, and a stopper that prevents the float from slipping out. The figure shows a self-propelled hydrogen production carrier moored to the mooring means with a mooring rope, and the hydrogen fuel cell ship being filled with hydrogen gas. The hydrogen production carrier has almost the same configuration as the hydrogen production carrier shown in Figure 23 (the difference is that it has a wind power generation system).

[0268] The floating hydrogen filling station shown in Figure 24 has a large-capacity storage battery, but the large-capacity storage battery is not connected to a wave power generation device or a tidal power generation device that generates electricity using ocean energy. Therefore, the floating hydrogen filling station shown in Figure 24 charges the large-capacity storage battery using only the electricity generated by the wind power generation device and the solar power generation device, making it more difficult to charge a sufficient amount of power than the station in Figure 23.

[0269] Therefore, when the remaining charge in the large-capacity storage battery becomes low, it must either move under its own power to a location with sufficient charging facilities to charge, or be charged from the floating large-capacity storage battery shown in Figure 20. If it can be charged from the floating large-capacity storage battery, the hydrogen production and filling ship shown in Figure 24 does not need to be self-propelled. In that case, it becomes a floating hydrogen production and filling station.

[0270] The floating hydrogen filling station shown in Figure 24 can be installed without the need for a large-scale marine energy power generation facility like the one shown in Figure 23, which allows for greater freedom in installation location and is advantageous for installing many floating hydrogen filling stations.

[0271] Next, we will explain the floating platform type hydrogen production and filling station. Figure 25 illustrates a floating platform hydrogen production and filling station. A certain number of pillars are driven into the bottom of the water, a platform is constructed on top of these pillars, and on top of that platform, the same facilities as those on the hydrogen production and filling ship shown in Figure 24 are installed. Therefore, the hydrogen gas production capacity, hydrogen gas filling capacity, power charger function, and information collection and transmission capabilities are the same as those shown in Figure 23. However, because the main structure is not a ship or a floating body, it is highly stable and typhoon-resistant.

[0272] The difference from the hydrogen production and filling station shown in Figure 23 is that it has a power transmission cable from shore and can use commercial AC power (three-phase 200V AC). Of course, this commercial AC power (three-phase 200V AC) is not essential and can be omitted. However, since this is a floating hydrogen production and filling station that can be used stably on a platform, it is desirable to be able to use commercial AC power so that it can withstand frequent use.

[0273] Next, a floating hydrogen filling station will be described. Figure 26 shows a floating hydrogen filling station. The hydrogen filling ship shown in Figure 26 has a configuration similar to the hydrogen production and filling ship shown in Figure 24, except that the hydrogen production equipment and hydrogen compressor have been removed. In other words, the floating hydrogen filling station shown in Figure 26 cannot produce hydrogen on the water. Instead, it has a relatively large hydrogen storage tank. When the amount of hydrogen gas remaining in the hydrogen storage tank becomes low, hydrogen gas can be supplied from a hydrogen carrier ship, which is a hydrogen gas replenishment means shown in Figure 26, or a hydrogen production and carrier ship, which is shown in Figure 22.

[0274] Furthermore, since the ship does not have a large-scale power generation device that generates electricity using marine energy, when the stored power in the large-capacity storage battery on the hydrogen filling ship becomes low, power can be supplied from a floating large-capacity storage battery, which is a power supply means such as the one shown in Figure 20.

[0275] This floating moored hydrogen filling station does not have a hydrogen production device, so it can be constructed more cheaply, smaller, and with fewer space restrictions. The hydrogen filling ship shown in Figure 26 is a self-propelled vessel, but it does not have to be self-propelled. In that case, it becomes a hydrogen filling float. Both the ship and the float are physical structures on the water.

[0276] Next, we will explain the floating platform type hydrogen filling station. Figure 27 shows a floating platform hydrogen filling station. The floating platform hydrogen filling station shown in Figure 27 has a configuration in which the hydrogen production equipment and hydrogen compressor have been removed from the floating platform hydrogen production and filling station shown in Figure 25. In other words, the floating platform hydrogen filling station shown in Figure 27 cannot produce hydrogen on water. Instead, it has a relatively large hydrogen storage tank. When the amount of hydrogen gas remaining in the hydrogen storage tank becomes low, hydrogen gas can be supplied from the hydrogen carrier shown in Figure 27 or the hydrogen production and carrier shown in Figure 22.

[0277] Furthermore, since the ship does not have a large-scale power generation system that uses ocean energy, when the stored power in the large-capacity storage battery on the hydrogen filling ship runs low, power can be supplied from a floating large-capacity storage battery such as that shown in Figure 20.

[0278] This floating platform hydrogen filling station does not have a hydrogen production device, so it can be constructed as a fixed floating hydrogen filling station that is less expensive, smaller, and less restricted in space. The platform is also a physical structure on the water.

[0279] The difference from the floating hydrogen filling station shown in Figure 26 is that it has a power transmission cable from land and can use commercial AC power (three-phase 200V AC). Of course, this commercial AC power (three-phase 200V AC) is not essential and can be dispensed with. However, since this is a floating hydrogen production and filling station that can be used stably on a platform, it is desirable to be able to use commercial AC power so that it can withstand frequent use.

[0280] Next, the control system of the hydrogen filling station will be described. Figure 28 shows the control system of a floating hydrogen filling station. The overall configuration is almost the same as the control system in Figure 17, but there are some differences in the specific connections.

[0281] The (2) artificial intelligence unit builds a hydrogen demand forecast learning database by associating weather data obtained from the (12) environmental observation control unit, ocean data obtained from ocean information sensors, operation performance information of the hydrogen filling machine obtained from the (6) hydrogen production, storage, and filling control unit, data on the remaining hydrogen gas in the hydrogen storage tank, etc. Based on the hydrogen demand forecast learning database, the (2) artificial intelligence unit issues instructions for the production of hydrogen gas and instructions for the supply of hydrogen gas by a hydrogen carrier, which is a means of supplying hydrogen gas.

[0282] (4) The charge / discharge control unit controls the charging and discharging of the large-capacity storage battery installed at the floating hydrogen filling station, as well as charging from the power charger.

[0283] The (8) fish finder / sonar control unit acquires fish finder information (fish finder images) and acoustic signal waveforms from the fish finder and sonar, and transmits this information via the (3) communications control unit to surrounding ships, fishing boats, fishing cooperatives, and hydrogen filling station management facilities. The (13) external option control unit acquires information from the solar panels, fish finder, sonar, weather information sensors, underwater sound collecting microphones, external sound collecting microphones, underwater lighting, surface lighting, surface cameras, underwater cameras, mobile base stations, and ocean information sensors (underwater temperature sensors, current sensors, vibration sensors, and salinity sensors) connected to it, and provides the information to related control units via the internal bus.

[0284] Next, the organization of floating hydrogen filling stations will be explained. A floating hydrogen filling station, which is a hydrogen gas supply base (location) located on water away from land, is a physical structure such as a ship, float, or platform located on water in the ocean, lake, etc., and has a hydrogen gas storage tank as a hydrogen gas storage means, a precooler as a hydrogen gas cooling means, and a hydrogen filling means as a hydrogen gas supply means that supplies hydrogen gas to a hydrogen gas consuming system such as a hydrogen-fueled ship that consumes hydrogen gas. There are mobile floating hydrogen filling bases that can move by self-propelled means or by being towed by a towing means, and immobile floating hydrogen filling systems in which part of the physical structure on which the hydrogen filling system is mounted is fixed to the waterfront.

[0285] Furthermore, the floating hydrogen gas supply station has a large-capacity storage battery or a commercial AC power source as a large-capacity storage means that functions as a power source for the hydrogen gas supply station. The electrical energy stored in the large-capacity storage means is preferably electrical energy derived from natural energy generated by marine energy such as wind energy, solar energy, wave power, or tidal power.

[0286] The hydrogen gas storage means provided at the hydrogen gas supply base has an openable and closable hydrogen gas intake port, which is hydrogen gas acquisition means for receiving a supply of hydrogen gas from outside the hydrogen gas supply base.

[0287] Furthermore, it is desirable that the floating hydrogen gas supply base has a hydrogen production device, which is a hydrogen gas production means for producing hydrogen gas, and be able to supply hydrogen gas to the hydrogen gas storage means of the floating hydrogen gas supply base. In this case, it is desirable to provide a hydrogen gas compression means between the hydrogen gas production means and the hydrogen gas storage means, so that the hydrogen gas produced by the hydrogen gas production means can be compressed and sent to the hydrogen gas storage means.

[0288] Furthermore, it is desirable that floating hydrogen gas supply bases have an information transmission function that transmits various types of information to the outside world, such as location information that identifies the location of the hydrogen gas supply base, information on whether hydrogen gas is available for supply, meteorological observation information around the hydrogen gas supply base, ocean information around the hydrogen gas supply base, and information on schools of fish around the hydrogen gas supply base.

[0289] Next, the multi-clean energy supply network system will be described. So far, we have explained a multi-clean energy supply chain system that supplies clean electricity generated from natural energy sources and clean hydrogen gas produced from clean electricity generated from natural energy sources at various supply stations on land or on water.

[0290] Specific examples of various supply stations include EV charging stations installed on land or on water, hydrogen production and filling stations installed on land or on water, hydrogen filling stations installed on land, hydrogen production and carrier ships installed on water, platform-type hydrogen production and filling stations fixed on water, hydrogen filling ships that can move on water, and platform-type hydrogen filling stations installed on fixed surfaces on water.

[0291] He also explained floating large-capacity batteries, which are a means of transporting clean electricity to where it is needed, and hydrogen carriers, which are a means of transporting clean hydrogen gas to where it is needed, within the clean energy supply chain system.

[0292] All of these components can be used individually, or can be systematically combined in any number to build a multi-clean energy supply chain system. A huge multi-clean energy supply chain system can be built by combining all of these components, or a wide variety of clean energy supply systems can be built by arbitrarily combining the necessary components from all of these components.

[0293] All of the technical features described and disclosed in this specification can be arbitrarily combined. For example, each of the technical features described with reference to Figures 1 to 12 can be arbitrarily combined with all of the technical features described with reference to Figure 13 and subsequent drawings. Furthermore, all of the technical features described for the specific battery of the large-capacity storage battery in Figure 18 can be arbitrarily combined with all of the technical features of all other large-capacity storage batteries.

[0294] The above description is merely an example, and each of the following aspects provides unique effects. [First aspect] The first aspect is a fluid power generation device (e.g., a vertical axis wave power generation device 100) comprising a floating body section 102 that generates buoyancy in a fluid (e.g., underwater), a rotating section 130 that rotates around the axis of a power-generating rotating shaft section (e.g., a second rotating shaft section 105) supported on the floating body section, and a power generation section 140 that generates power by rotation of the rotating section around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft section, wherein the floating body section has an elongated shape, the power-generating rotating shaft section is supported on the floating body section so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the floating body section, and the floating body section is provided with a weight section (e.g., a power generation mechanism section 110) that positions the longitudinal direction of the floating body section so as to be approximately vertical. In conventional wave power generation devices (fluid power generation devices), the movement of waves on the fluid surface causes the floating body to rotate (swing) around a horizontal axis (around a horizontal axis perpendicular to the direction of wave travel), causing the rotating body to rotate around the axis of a rotating shaft supported on the floating body, and the power generation unit generates electricity. However, in conventional wave power generation devices, the floating body floating on the fluid surface generally rotates (swings) around the horizontal axis to follow the inclination angle of the fluid surface, which changes due to the movement of the waves. As a result, for example, with small waves, the change in the inclination angle of the fluid surface may be too small, or depending on the wave movement, the rotation of the floating body may not be able to properly follow the change in the inclination angle of the fluid surface, and the floating body may not be able to rotate sufficiently around the horizontal axis. In addition, due to factors such as the weight balance of the rotating part around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft part, the floating part may remain near a specific rotation position around the horizontal axis (the floating part may remain in a tilted position and not rotate), and the floating part may not be able to rotate (swing) sufficiently around the horizontal axis. In this embodiment, the floating body has an elongated shape, and the power-generating rotating shaft is supported on the floating body so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the floating body. The weight portion maintains this elongated floating body in a vertical position with its longitudinal direction oriented approximately vertically. That is, when not subject to wave motion or fluid flow, the weight of the weight portion causes the elongated floating body to assume a vertical position with its longitudinal direction oriented approximately vertically. In this embodiment, as the elongated floating body rotates around a horizontal axis, the elongated floating body tilts relative to the vertical, and the power-generating rotating shaft extending in the longitudinal direction of the floating body also tilts relative to the vertical. As a result, the rotating portion rotates around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft toward the lowest position due to its own weight, and performs a swinging or pendulum motion around the lowest position. Furthermore, as the long floating body rotates around its horizontal axis, the power-generating rotating shaft also rotates around its horizontal axis, and in response to this movement of the power-generating rotating shaft, the rotating part rotates (sways) around its axis. As the floating body rotates around its horizontal axis in this way, the rotating part rotates (sways) around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft, causing the power-generating part to generate electricity. In this embodiment, some or all of the elongated floating body portion in a vertical position is located in the fluid, and the side surface (short side) of the elongated floating body portion receives the fluid flow. In this case, the weight portion is located below the fluid surface, and when the fluid flow is received, the portion of the weight portion, which is relatively heavy, is less likely to move due to inertia. In contrast, the portion of the floating body portion that is located in the fluid and does not have a weight portion is more likely to move when the fluid flow is received than the portion of the weight portion. As a result, when the elongated floating body portion in a vertical position receives the fluid flow, a rotational moment is generated around a horizontal axis passing through the weight portion, and the floating body portion assumes an inclined position in which the longitudinal direction of the floating body portion is tilted from the approximately vertical direction. Furthermore, fluid flows occurring in oceans, lakes, etc. are usually stronger at shallower depths (closer to the fluid surface). Therefore, the fluid force acting on the floating body portion located above the weight portion is greater than the fluid force acting on the weight portion, and the magnitude of this fluid force increases the further away from the weight portion. Thus, the farther away from the weight portion, which is the center of the rotational moment, the greater the fluid force acting on the floating body portion. Therefore, a larger rotational moment is generated in the long, vertically oriented floating body portion, allowing the floating body portion to assume an inclined position with its longitudinal direction tilted more from the approximately vertical direction. On the other hand, when the fluid flow decreases, the sides of the long floating body are subjected to equal water pressure from all directions, so the tilted floating body tries to return to a vertical position with its longitudinal direction facing approximately vertical. As a result, a rotational moment is generated around the horizontal axis passing through the weight section in the direction of returning the tilted floating body to a vertical position. Furthermore, as the direction of the fluid flow changes, a rotational moment is generated around the horizontal axis passing through the weight portion in the direction of returning the floating body portion, which has become tilted, to a vertical position. In this manner, according to this aspect, the long floating body can be rotated (swinged) largely around the horizontal axis by changes in the magnitude and direction of the fluid flow, etc. This allows the rotating part to rotate (swing) largely around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft part, promoting power generation in the power-generating part and contributing to stable power generation. By using the power generation unit and other components of the fluid power generation device as the weight unit, the weight that needs to be placed separately from the components can be reduced, resulting in advantages such as space saving and weight reduction.

[0295] [Second mode] A second aspect is the first aspect, characterized in that the weight portion is disposed at or near the lower end of the floating body portion in the longitudinal direction. In this aspect, the long floating body section can generate a rotational moment centered on or near the lower end of the floating body section in the longitudinal direction by receiving the flow of fluid. This allows the length of the floating body section located above the weight section to be longer. As a result, the area of ​​the floating body section that generates a rotational moment by receiving the flow of fluid is increased, and the fluid flow can be received at a portion farther away from the weight section, which is the center of the rotational moment. Therefore, a larger rotational moment can be generated in the long floating body section, and the floating body section can assume an inclined posture in which the longitudinal direction of the floating body section is inclined more greatly from the approximately vertical direction.

[0296] [Third aspect] A third aspect is the second aspect, characterized in that the weight portion is configured so that half or more of the longitudinal direction of the floating body portion is located in the fluid. This increases the area of ​​the floating body portion that receives the fluid flow and generates a rotational moment, and allows the fluid flow to be received at a portion farther away from the weight portion, which is the center of the rotational moment. Therefore, a larger rotational moment can be generated in the long floating body portion, and the floating body portion can assume an inclined posture with its longitudinal direction inclined more greatly from the approximately vertical direction.

[0297] [Fourth aspect] The fourth aspect is characterized in that, in the third aspect, the weight portion is configured so that the longitudinal upper end of the floating body portion is positioned above the fluid surface (e.g., sea surface S). This allows the waves traveling on the fluid surface and the wind blowing on the fluid surface to be received by the longitudinal upper end of the floating body. Therefore, by utilizing the force of the waves (or ocean waves) and the force of the wind, a rotational moment around a horizontal axis passing through the weight part is generated in the long floating body, and the floating body can be tilted. In particular, since the longitudinal upper end of the floating body that receives the waves and wind is far from the weight part, a larger rotational moment can be generated by the waves and wind.

[0298] [Fifth mode] The fifth aspect is characterized in that the fourth aspect has a position switching unit (e.g., ballast device 160) that switches the vertical position of the floating body unit between a first position (e.g., a floating position) in which the longitudinal upper end of the floating body unit is located above the fluid surface and a second position (e.g., a sinking position) in which the longitudinal upper end of the floating body unit is located below the fluid surface. In this aspect, by switching the vertical position of the floating body to the first position, waves traveling on the fluid surface or wind blowing on the fluid surface can be used to generate a rotational moment in the long floating body, causing the floating body to tilt. On the other hand, by switching the vertical position of the floating body to the second position, the entire floating body can be positioned within the fluid. In this way, in a situation where it is inappropriate to position the longitudinal upper end of the floating body above the fluid surface, such as during a typhoon, damage to the longitudinal upper end of the floating body can be avoided by switching from the first position to the second position using the position switching unit. Furthermore, for example, it is possible to compare the power generation efficiency between the first and second positions and switch the vertical position of the floating body to a position with higher power generation efficiency.

[0299] [Sixth aspect] The sixth aspect is a fluid power generation device (e.g., an underwater rotary power generation device 200) comprising a housing portion 202 at least a portion of which is disposed in a fluid (e.g., underwater), a rotating portion 130 that rotates around the axis of a power generation rotating shaft portion (e.g., a second rotating shaft portion 105), and a power generation portion 140 that generates power by rotation of the rotating portion around the axis of the power generation rotating shaft portion, wherein the fluid power generation device has a connecting portion 250 that connects the housing portion to an external mooring portion (e.g., a surface mooring device 300, a connecting wire 81B, etc.) while the housing portion is freely rotatable around its axis, and wing portions (e.g., fins 203) that rotate the housing portion around its axis by receiving the flow of fluid, and the rotating portion and the power generation portion are disposed within the housing portion, and are configured so that the power generation rotating shaft portion and the rotating portion rotate relatively around the axis of the power generation rotating shaft portion. In the fluid power generation device of this aspect, the housing portion connected to the external mooring portion by the connecting portion rotates about the axis of the housing portion when the blade portion receives the fluid flow with the axial direction of the housing portion facing in the direction of the fluid flow. This rotation of the housing portion about the axis causes the power generation rotating shaft portion and the rotating portion to rotate relatively about the axis of the power generation rotating shaft portion, resulting in the power generation portion generating electricity. Here, as a power generating mechanism that utilizes the rotational force generated when the wing portion receives the fluid flow and the housing portion rotates about its axis, it is possible to consider, for example, arranging a rotating portion and a power generating portion that generates electricity by the rotation of the rotating portion on the mooring portion side outside the housing portion. In this case, a rotational force transmission mechanism (such as a universal joint) that transmits the rotational force of the housing portion is provided at a connecting portion that connects the housing portion to the external mooring portion, and the rotational force of the housing portion is transmitted by the rotational force transmission mechanism to the rotating portion located on the external mooring portion side, thereby rotating the rotating portion. The connecting portion is subjected to a large tensile force caused by the wing portion and the housing portion that receive the fluid flow. If a rotational force transmission mechanism is provided at a connecting portion that receives such an external force, there is a risk that the rotational force transmission mechanism will be damaged. In this embodiment, the rotating unit and the power generating unit are disposed within the housing. Therefore, the connecting unit that connects the housing to the external mooring unit does not need to be provided with a torque transmission mechanism (such as a universal joint) that transmits the torque of the housing. This prevents damage to the torque transmission mechanism provided in the connecting unit, contributing to stable power generation.

[0300] [Seventh aspect] The seventh aspect is the sixth aspect, characterized in that the power generating rotating shaft portion is arranged on the axis of the housing and is configured to rotate integrally with the housing portion around the axis of the housing portion. With this, when the blade portion receives the flow of fluid and the housing portion rotates around the axis, the power generating rotating shaft portion located within the housing portion rotates around its axis, causing relative rotation between it and the rotating portion, and the power generating portion located within the housing portion can generate electricity.

[0301] [Eighth aspect] The eighth aspect is characterized in that, in the sixth or seventh aspect, the rotating part is positioned so that the axial direction of the housing part is directed approximately horizontally in balance with the center of gravity of the fluid power generation device and the buoyancy of the fluid power generation device. With this, the wing portion receives the flow of fluid, allowing the housing portion to rotate stably around the axis.

[0302] [Ninth aspect] The ninth aspect is a fluid power generation system (e.g., a hybrid power generation unit 1 or a fluid power generation system 10) comprising a plurality of fluid power generation devices, characterized in that the plurality of fluid power generation devices include at least one of the fluid power generation devices of any of the first to fifth aspects (e.g., a vertical axis wave power generation device 100) and the fluid power generation device of any of the sixth to eighth aspects (e.g., an underwater rotary power generation device 200). This makes it possible to realize stable power generation in a fluid power generation system including a plurality of fluid power generation devices that generate power by rotating a rotating part around the axis of a power generation rotating shaft part.

[0303] [Tenth aspect] The tenth aspect is characterized in that in the ninth aspect, the housing portion 202 in the fluid power generation device (e.g., the underwater rotary power generation device 200) of any of the sixth to eighth aspects is connected to an external mooring portion by the connecting portion 250 via a connecting member (e.g., connecting wires 81A, 81B) connected to the longitudinal lower end of the floating portion 102 in the fluid power generation device (e.g., the vertical axis wave power generation device 100) of any of the first to fifth aspects. This makes it possible to easily realize a fluid power generation system that uses both the fluid power generation device of any one of the first to fifth aspects and the fluid power generation device of any one of the sixth to eighth aspects. [Explanation of symbols]

[0304] 1: Hybrid power generation unit 10: Fluid power generation system 81A: Vertical wire 81B: Horizontal wire 85: Fishing reef 90: Electric Carrier 90a: Power storage unit 91: Connector 100: Vertical axis wave power generation device 102: Floating body section 103: Frame section 103a: Bearing part 104: First rotating shaft 105: Second rotating shaft 105a: Shaft fixing part 110: Power generation mechanism section 120: Floating body section 121: Wireless communication device 122: Light-emitting device 123: Control unit 124: Control battery 125: Flood sensor 126: Internal conductive cable 130: Rotating part 131A: Lower first frame 131B: First upper frame 131a: Bearing part 132A~132D: Second frame 133: Weight member 140: Power generation section 141: Power generating rotating shaft 142: Bevel gear 143A, 143B: Small bevel gear 144, 145B, 146B: Large spur gear 145A, 146A: Small spur gear 148: Generator 148a: Input gear 149: Flywheel 150:Connection part 150a: Cap part 151: Power transmission cable 152: Swivel 155: Slip ring 160: Ballast equipment 161: Ballast tank 162: Piston 163: Piston drive unit 163a: Spiral rod 164a, 164b: Limiter switch sensor 200: Underwater rotary power generation device 202: Housing section 202a: Bearing 203: Finn 210: Power generation mechanism section 223: Control unit 224: Control battery 225: Flood sensor 226: Internal conductive cable 226a: Waterproof internal connector 226b: Reverse current prevention diode 227: PLC adapter 250:Connection part 250a: nozzle part 251: Power transmission cables 252: Second connecting part 255: Slip ring 255a: Slip ring storage section 255b: Through hole 255c: Retaining plate 255d: Conductive sliding brush 255e: Stator 255f: Electrode ring 255g: Waterproof seal 256: Connector 256a: Support shaft 257: Waterproof packing 258: Fixing screw 259: Connection terminal 300: Water mooring equipment 301: Transportation 302: Power output section O: Axial direction R: Rotational moment S: Sea level

Claims

1. a floating body portion that generates buoyancy in the fluid; a rotating part that rotates around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft part supported by the floating body part; a power generating unit that generates power by rotation of the rotating unit about the axis of the power generating rotating shaft, The floating body portion has an elongated shape, the power-generating rotating shaft is supported by the floating body section so as to extend in the longitudinal direction of the floating body section, The fluid power generation device is characterized in that the floating body is provided with a weight portion that keeps the floating body in a position where the longitudinal direction of the floating body is oriented in a substantially vertical direction.

2. The fluid power generation device according to claim 1, The fluid power generation device is characterized in that the weight portion is disposed at or near the lower end of the floating body portion in the longitudinal direction.

3. The fluid power generation device according to claim 2, A fluid power generation device, characterized in that the weight portion is configured so that at least half of the longitudinal direction of the floating body portion is located in the fluid.

4. The fluid power generation device according to claim 3, The fluid power generation device is characterized in that the weight portion is configured so that the upper end of the floating body portion in the longitudinal direction is positioned above the fluid surface.

5. The fluid power generation device according to claim 4, A fluid power generation device characterized by having a position switching unit that switches the vertical position of the floating body unit between a first position where the longitudinal upper end of the floating body unit is located above the fluid surface and a second position where the longitudinal upper end of the floating body unit is located below the fluid surface.

6. a housing portion at least partially disposed in the fluid; a rotating part that rotates around the axis of the power-generating rotating shaft part; a power generating unit that generates power by rotation of the rotating unit about the axis of the power generating rotating shaft, a connecting portion that connects the housing portion to an external mooring portion while the housing portion is rotatable about an axis of the housing portion; a wing portion that receives a flow of fluid and thereby rotates the housing portion about the axis, the rotating portion and the power generating portion are disposed within the housing portion, A fluid power generation device characterized in that the power generation rotating shaft portion and the rotating portion are configured to rotate relatively around the axis of the power generation rotating shaft portion when the housing portion rotates around its axis.

7. The fluid power generation device according to claim 6, The fluid power generation device is characterized in that the power generation rotating shaft portion is arranged on the axis of the housing and is configured to rotate integrally with the housing portion about the axis of the housing portion.

8. The fluid power generation device according to claim 6 or 7, A fluid power generation device characterized in that the rotating part is positioned so that the axial direction of the housing part is directed approximately horizontally in balance with the center of gravity of the fluid power generation device and the buoyancy of the fluid power generation device.

9. A fluid power generation system including a plurality of fluid power generation devices, 10. A fluid power generation system, wherein the plurality of fluid power generation devices include at least one of the fluid power generation device according to claim 1 and the fluid power generation device according to claim 6 or 7.

10. The fluid power generation system according to claim 9, A fluid power generation system characterized in that the fluid power generation device described in any one of claims 1 to 5 is connected to an external mooring part by the housing part and the connecting part via a connecting member connected to the longitudinal lower end part of the floating part.

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