Tidal power generation apparatus and method

Abstract

A power generation apparatus includes a first unit configured to float on a water body. The first unit includes a floating base to move in response to water waves of the water body and one or more vertical shafts. The power generation apparatus includes a second unit mounted on a static base. The second unit includes a horizontal axle to connect the second unit with the one or more vertical shafts and a gear assembly configured to convert a movement of the one or more vertical shafts into an electrical energy. The movement of the one or more vertical shafts is relayed to the gear assembly via the horizontal axle. A linear motion actuator is provided in the second unit to control an upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle. The power generation apparatus enables efficient and effective power generation by harnessing water waves with reduced complexity.

Description

[0001] TIDAL POWER GENERATION APPARATUS AND METHOD

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of power generation systems, and more specifically, to a power generation apparatus and a method for generating power by harnessing motion of water waves.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Generally, electricity is produced from a number of natural resources, such as wind energy, hydropower energy, solar energy, biomass energy, and geothermal energy. However, hydropower energy is the most convenient and accessible natural resource to produce the electricity due to water availability throughout the year, for example, by using a hydropower system, such as a turbine. Typically, a large area is required to set up the hydropower systems for the generation and distribution of the electricity. Moreover, most conventional hydropower systems need to be fully submerged in the water, which increases the risk of corrosion from salinization as well as reduces the electricity production efficiency.

[0006] Currently, certain attempts have been made in order to reduce the risk of corrosion in the conventional hydropower systems, for example, by using sea floating platforms and conventional tidal energy-based generators for the production of the electricity. However, such conventional hydropower systems and machines have high complexity and maintenance issues and are inefficient for electricity production, which is not desirable.

[0007] Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks associated with conventional hydropower systems.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] The present disclosure provides a power generation apparatus and a method for generating power by harnessing motion of water waves. The present disclosure provides a solution to the existing problem of high complexity and inefficiency in power generation of conventional power generation systems that utilize tidal energy. Moreover, the majority of conventional power generation systems that harness hydro energy are submerged in water, increasing the risk of corrosion from salinisation. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a solution that overcomes at least partially the problems encountered in the prior art and provide an improved power generation apparatus and an improved method for generating power by harnessing the motion of water waves. The disclosed power generation apparatus does not have to be fully submerged and can be activated by a minimum rise or drop of a tide.

[0010] One or more objects of the present disclosure are achieved by the solutions provided in the enclosed independent claims. Advantageous implementations of the present disclosure are further defined in the dependent claims.

[0011] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a power generation apparatus that includes a first unit, which is configured to float on a water body. The first unit includes a floating base that is configured to move in response to water waves of the water body and one or more vertical shafts mounted on the floating base. The power generation apparatus further includes a second unit that is configured to be mounted on a static base. The second unit includes a horizontal axle that is configured to connect the second unit with the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit. The second unit further includes a gear assembly that is configured to convert a movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit into an electrical energy. The movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit is relayed to the gear assembly of the second unit via the horizontal axle. The second unit further includes a linear motion actuator that is connected to the horizontal axle at a defined pivot point to control an upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle caused in response to the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit.

[0012] The power generation apparatus provides an improved and effective transmission of the mechanical energy from the floating base of the first unit to the gear assembly of the second unit via the horizontal axle. Further, the linear motion actuator connected to the horizontal axle controls the upward and the downward motion of the horizontal axle, which reduces the complexity and improves the effectiveness of the motion translation from the horizontal axle to the gear assembly to convert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. The horizontal axle is connected to separate units (i. e. , the first unit and the second unit) but has a same pivoting point (i. e. , the defined pivot point) that provides an improved and controlled power generation. Additionally, the first unit of the power generation apparatus is constructed from non-corrosive material and is not fully submerged in the water body that further reduces the risk of corrosion from salinization. Thus, the power generation apparatus provides efficient, reliable, and effective power generation with reduced complexity.

[0013] In a further implementation form, the second unit further includes a frame configured to mount the gear assembly, the linear motion actuator, one end of the horizontal axle, and one or more other components of the second unit.

[0014] In such implementation, the frame provides support, reduces unwanted mechanical vibrations, and protects the mounted components from any external impact.

[0015] In a further implementation form, the second unit further includes a retainer axle that includes a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the frame, and the second end is connected to at least one vertical shaft of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit.

[0016] The retainer axle connects the first unit with the second unit through the one of the vertical shafts of the first unit and the frame of the second unit to control any undesired movement (e.g., backward and forward movement) of the floating base with respect to the second unit during the high rise of the water waves. For instance, the retainer axle maintains a safe and fixed distance between the first unit and the second unit.

[0017] In an implementation form, at least one gear of the plurality of gears comprises a plurality of slots to accommodate a fixing means in the horizontal axle when at least one gear rotates in response to the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle.

[0018] The plurality of slots enables maximum rotational movement of the plurality of gears by accommodating the fixing means (e.g., a pin) when the horizontal axle is in its maximum up or down level.

[0019] In an implementation form, the gear assembly further includes a first gear that is engaged with the horizontal axle such that when the horizontal axle performs the upward or downward motion, the first gear is rotated, which in turn causes other gears, including a generator gear of the gear assembly to rotate to generate the electrical energy. When the horizontal axle performs the upward or downward motion, the first gear causes the generator gear to rotate with high revolutions per minute (RPM), which is used to generate the required amount of electrical energy.

[0020] In an implementation form, the second unit further includes a movable part that includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the movable part is movably attached to a frame of the second unit along with the first gear, and the second end is fixedly attached to the horizontal axle. The first gear of the gear assembly is engaged with the horizontal axle via the movable part.

[0021] Optionally, the movable part is used to allow only the upward and downward movement of the horizontal axle.

[0022] In an implementation form, the second unit further includes an energy storage device configured to power the linear motion actuator.

[0023] The energy storage device is used to provide an uninterrupted power supply to the linear motion actuator. Moreover, the initial electrical energy required to start and control the system may be supplied from the stored energy in the energy storage device.

[0024] In an implementation form, the defined pivot point is adjustable to cause a variable transmission of a driving force from the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle to the gear assembly.

[0025] The variable option of the transmission of the driving force from the horizontal axle to the gear assembly is advantageous as the first unit and the second unit are separate units but connected via the horizontal axle on the same pivoting point. This improves transmission efficiency.

[0026] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for generating power by harnessing motion of water waves. The method comprises mounting one or more vertical shafts on a floating base to form a first unit that floats on a water body and moves in response to the water waves of the water body and mounting a second unit on a static base near the water body at a defined distance from the first unit. Further, the method comprises connecting a horizontal axle provided at the second unit to the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit and converting, by a gear assembly of the second unit, a movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit into electrical energy, wherein the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit is relayed to the gear assembly of the second unit via the horizontal axle and controlling, by a linear motion actuator, an upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle caused in response to the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit. The linear motion actuator is connected to the horizontal axle at a defined pivot point.

[0027] The method for generating power by harnessing the motion of water waves achieves all the advantages and effects of the power generation apparatus.

[0028] It is to be appreciated that all the aforementioned implementation forms can be combined. All steps which are performed by the various entities described in the present application, as well as the functionalities described to be performed by the various entities, are intended to mean that the respective entity is adapted to or configured to perform the respective steps and functionalities. Even if, in the following description of specific embodiments, a specific functionality or step to be performed by external entities is not reflected in the description of a specific detailed element of that entity, which performs that specific step or functionality, it should be clear for a skilled person that these methods and functionalities can be implemented in respective software or hardware elements, or any kind of combination thereof. It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0029] Additional aspects, advantages, features, and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative implementations construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.

[0030] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

[0032] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

[0033] FIG. 1 is a diagram that depicts a power generation apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 2 is a diagram that depicts a power generation apparatus, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIGs. 3A and 3B are diagrams that depict different perspective views of a power generation apparatus, in accordance with different embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0036] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method for generating power by harnessing motion of water waves, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the nonunderlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.

[0038] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0039] The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a diagram that depicts a power generation apparatus 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The power generation apparatus 100 includes a first unit 102 configured to float on a water body 104. The first unit 102 includes a floating base 106, one or more vertical shafts, such as a first vertical shaft 108, and a second vertical shaft 110. The power generation apparatus 100 further includes a second unit 112 that is mounted on a static base 114. For example, the second unit 112 may be placed at the edge of the water body 104, such as on shore. The second unit 112 includes a horizontal axle 116, a gear assembly 118, and a linear motion actuator 120. In an implementation, the second unit 112 further comprises a frame 132 and an energy storage device 134. Moreover, the gear assembly 118 includes a plurality of gears, such as a first gear 118A, a second gear 118B, a third gear 118C, and a fourth gear 118D.

[0041] The power generation apparatus 100 may also be referred to as a hybrid apparatus having a static base 114 in the second unit 112 and a floating base 106 in the first unit 102) that floats on the water body 104. The water body 104 may be a river, a sea, a waterfall, and the like. Moreover, the rise and fall of the water waves in the water body 104 results in the movement of the floating base 106 that further activates the first unit 102. The floating base 106 of the first unit 102 is constructed from a non-corrosive material and is not fully submerged (i.e., partially submerged) into the water body 104, due to which, the risk of corrosion is reduced. The first unit 102 further includes one or more vertical shafts mounted on the floating base 106. Moreover, the floating base 106 of the first unit 102 is connected with the one or more vertical shafts, such as connected with the first vertical shaft 108 and the second vertical shaft 110.

[0042] In an implementation, at least one vertical shaft, such as the first vertical shaft 108 is connected to the floating base 106 to link the first unit 102 with the second unit 112. In another implementation, more than one vertical shaft, such as the first vertical shaft 108 and the second vertical shaft 110 are connected to the floating base 106 to link the first unit 102 with the second unit 112. In an implementation, the floating base 106 includes a floater 124 and a defined weight 126 disposed on the floater 124. The floater 124 may be a floater tank. In an implementation, the weight of the floating base 106 (combined weight of the floater 124 and the defined weight 126) or buoyance of the floating base 106 is regulated by a pump 124A (or one or more pumps). In an exemplary implementation, the pump 124A may be provided in the floater tank (i.e., the floater 124) to supply or reduce supplied liquid within the floater tank (i.e., the floater 124) as a part of the upwards or downwards driving force of the first unit 102 or weight displacement from the first unit 102. It is to be understood that the position of the pump 124A may vary without limiting the scope of the disclosure. The electrical energy required for the pump 124A (e.g., a liquid regulating pump) is supplied from the energy storage device 134 (i.e., a battery source) via an electrical connection medium 124B (e.g., an insulated metallic wire, an electrical cable, etc.). A plimsoll line 124C is marked horizontally on the floater 124 to provide indication / s of a water level that the floater 124 (e.g., the floater tank) is in the water body 104 (i.e., indications of a depth of immersion of the floater 124. In an implementation, the floater 124 of the floating base 106 includes the defined weight 126, which is in direct contact with the water body 104. In another implementation, the defined weight 126 is mounted on the floater 124 of the floating base 106. The force generated by the defined weight 126 on the floater 124 may influence the upward and the downward movement of the first unit 102 to generate the kinetic energy. In other words, if the defined weight 126 is increased or decreased, then the upward or downward movement of the first unit 102 may change. Moreover, in an exemplary implementation, an axle 152 is connected to the horizontal axle 116, such as through a pin or a bolt 146A and a balancing gravitational weight 156 is connected to the axle 152, for example, through a pin or a bolt 146C. The balancing gravitational weight 156 provides a downward force on a pin 146B to balance the weight of the horizontal axle 116, the first vertical axle 108, and the floater 124. In other words, the length, width, and the weight of the axle 152 acts as a counterweight against the opposite side of the horizontal axle 116. However, the defined weight 126 provides a driving force to the generator 130 and provides the downward force to the floater 124. Thus, the required balance is achieved on both the sides of the horizontal axle 116 and the main pin 138. In addition, the upward displacement force of the floater 124 is also used to drive the generator 130 and to store the energy of the defined weight 126. In an exemplary implementation, the energy storage device 134 is used to provide energy to the generator 130 to maintain the continuous motion of the horizontal shaft 116. Moreover, the force generated by floating base 106 can be calculated with an improved accuracy by use of the size of the floater 124 and the defined weight 126.

[0043] The second unit 112 is configured to be mounted on the static base 114. The static base 114, for example, is disposed on a land body that provides safe, efficient, reliable, and more accessible facilities for repairing as well as servicing of the power generation apparatus 100 with reduced complexity. Thus, the power generation apparatus 100 provides readily accessible transmission of the electricity from the power generation apparatus 100 to the required source, such as a powerhouse through power lines. The second unit 112 further includes the horizontal axle 116 that is configured to connect the second unit 112 with the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. In an implementation, the first vertical shaft 108 is connected to the horizontal axle 116 of the second unit 112. In another implementation, the first vertical shaft 108 and the second vertical shaft 110 are connected to the horizontal axle 116 of the second unit 112. Moreover, one end of the horizontal axle 116 is connected to the one or more vertical shafts and the other end of the horizontal axle 116 is connected to the second unit 112. Thus, the horizontal axle 116 links the first unit 102 with the second unit 112. In addition, the rise and fall of the water waves in the water body 104 results in the movement of the floating base 106 to activate the first unit 102 that further enables the transmission of mechanical energy (i.e., the kinetic energy) from the first unit 102 to the second unit 112 through the horizontal axle 116.

[0044] The second unit 112 further includes the gear assembly 118 that is configured to convert a movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102 into the electrical energy. In other words, the movement of the one or more vertical shafts results in the transmission of the mechanical energy from the first unit 102 to the gear assembly 118 of the second unit 112. Thereafter, the gear assembly 118 is configured to convert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. In accordance with an embodiment, the gear assembly 118 includes the plurality of gears that are interlinked with each other such that a rotatory motion of one gear engages and causes another gear to rotate. The gear assembly 118 includes the plurality of gears, such as the first gear 118A, the second gear 118B, the third gear 118C, and the fourth gear 118D that are interlinked with each other. For example, the first gear 118A is linked with the second gear 118B. Similarly, the second gear 118B is linked with the third gear 118C, and the third gear 118C is linked with the fourth gear 118D. The rotatory motion of one gear, such as the first gear 118A engages and causes the other gear, such as the second gear 118B to rotate. Similarly, the rotatory motion of the second gear 118B engages and causes the third gear 118C to rotate, which in turn rotates the fourth gear 118D, and the generator gear 130 that converts its rotational motion to electrical energy.

[0045] In an implementation, at least one gear of the plurality of gears includes a plurality of slots, such as a first slot 136A and a second slot 136B, to accommodate a fixing means (e.g., a connection pin) in the horizontal axle 116 when at least one gear rotates in response to the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle 116. Alternatively, in another implementation, the plurality of slots, such as the first slot 136A and the second slot 136B, may be included in the frame 132 of the second unit 112 to accommodate the fixing means in the horizontal axle 116 when at least one gear rotates in response to the upward and the downward motion of the horizontal axle 116.

[0046] In an implementation, the gear assembly 118 further includes the first gear 118A that is engaged with the horizontal axle 116. There is further shown an axle point 138 of the horizontal axle 116 for the first gear 118 A, and the transmission drive from the horizontal axle 116 to the first gear 118A is at a point 140. Moreover, when the horizontal axle 116 performs the upward or downward motion, then the first gear 118A is rotated, which in turn causes other gears, including the generator gear 130 of the gear assembly 118 to rotate to generate the electrical energy. In other words, the upward or downward motion of horizontal axle 116 causes the rotation of the generator gear 130 for the conversion of the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. The first gear 118A ultimately causes the generator gear 130 to rotate with high revolutions per minute (RPM), which is used to generate the required amount of the electrical energy.

[0047] The second unit 112 further includes the linear motion actuator 120 that is connected to the horizontal axle 116 at the defined pivot point 122 to control the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle 116 caused in response to the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. Examples of the linear motion actuator 120 include but are not limited to an electrical linear motion actuator, a mechanical linear motion actuator, or a hydraulic system controlled by an electrical motor. The linear motion actuator 120 is further configured to allow only the upward and the downward motion of the horizontal axle 116 while preventing any other unwanted movement of the horizontal axle 116 through the defined pivot point 122.

[0048] In an implementation, a motorized gear 166 is secured within the gear assembly 118. The motorized gear 166 is configured to drive a gear 162 that is secured to a shaft of the generator 130. The gear assembly 118 includes gear 118D that is also secured to the shaft of the generator 130, such that the motion of the motorized gear 166 is transferred to the gear 162, which in turn rotates the gear 118D to drive the gear 118B. The motorized gear 166 is configured to provide additional start-up and control capabilities to the gear assembly 118 via the generator shaft 130.

[0049] In a further implementation, the apparatus 100 may include multiple gear assemblies having different gear ratio configurations based on location requirements. The gear assemblies may be mechanically coupled using shaft coupling mechanisms, wherein each coupling mechanism includes a first coupling member attached to an output shaft of one gear assembly and a second coupling member attached to an input shaft of an adjacent gear assembly, thereby enabling torque transfer between the gear assemblies.

[0050] During operation of the apparatus 100, the motorized gear 166 receives initial start-up energy from an energy storage device 134. Once operational, the generator 130 supplies electrical energy to the motorized gear 166 either directly or via the energy storage device 134, which may also be recharged by other renewable energy sources. The motorized gear 166 is configured to operate in synchronization with the linear motion actuator 120.

[0051] In an implementation, the defined pivot point 122 is adjustable to cause a variable transmission of a driving force from the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle 116 to the gear assembly 118. In other words, the power generation apparatus 100 provides a variable option for the transmission of the driving force from the horizontal axle 116 to the plurality of gears, such as the first gear 118A, which are separate units on the defined pivot point 122.

[0052] In an implementation, the second unit 112 further includes the energy storage device 134 that is configured to power the linear motion actuator 120. The energy storage device 134 may correspond to a rechargeable battery or a battery pack, or a battery module, which is configured to store power and further supply the stored power to the power generation apparatus 100. In a case where the linear motion actuator 120 is the electrical linear motion actuator, or the hydraulic system is controlled by the electrical motor, the energy storage device 134 is configured to power the electrical motor to control the upward and the downward movement of the horizontal axle 116. In such implementation, the energy storage device 134 is charged by an external renewable power source or via the electrical energy output of the power generation apparatus 100 when the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle 116 is established. Examples of implementation of the external renewal power source may include but are not limited to a wind energy source, a solar energy source, a geothermal energy source, and a biomass energy source. In an implementation, the external renewable power source is used to charge the energy storage device 134 when the upward and downward movement of the horizontal axle 116 is established. In such implementation, the operations of the power generation apparatus 100 are performed by the energy storage device 134, such as the movement of the linear motion actuator 120. In another implementation, the electrical energy output of the power generation apparatus 100 is used to charge the energy storage device 134 when the upward and downward movement of the horizontal axle 116 is established.

[0053] In accordance with an embodiment, the second unit 112 further includes the frame 132 that is configured to mount the gear assembly 118, the linear motion actuator 120, one end of the horizontal axle 116, and one or more other components of the second unit 112. In an implementation, the second unit 112 includes the retainer axle 128 that includes a first end and a second end. Moreover, the first end is connected to the frame 132 and the second end is connected to at least one vertical shaft of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. In an implementation, the second end of the retainer axle 128 is connected to the first vertical shaft 108 of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. In another implementation, the second end of the retainer axle 128 is connected to the second vertical shaft 110 of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. In other words, the retainer axle 128 connects the first unit 102 with the second unit 112 through the one of the vertical shafts of the first unit 102 and the frame 132 of the second unit 112 to control the movement of the floating base 106 during the high rise of the water waves.

[0054] The power generation apparatus 100 provides an improved and effective transmission of the mechanical energy produced by the movement of the floating base 106 to the gear assembly 118 of the second unit 112 via the horizontal axle 116. Further, the linear motion actuator 120 connected to the horizontal axle 116 controls the upward and the downward motion of the horizontal axle 116, which reduces the complexity and improves the effectiveness of the motion translation from the horizontal axle 116 to the gear assembly 118 to convert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. The horizontal axle 116 is connected to the first unit 102 and the second unit 112 with the defined pivot point 122 that provides an improved and controlled power generation. Additionally, the first unit 102 of the power generation apparatus 100 is constructed from non-corrosive material and is not fully submerged in the water body 104, which further reduces the risk of corrosion from salinization and provides an efficient, reliable, and effective power generation with reduced complexity. Moreover, the power generation apparatus 100 can be used for readily accessible transmission of the electricity to the required source, such as a powerhouse through power lines.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a diagram that depicts a power generation apparatus, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. The diagram shows a power generation apparatus 200 that includes a first unit 202 configured to float on a water body 204 and a second unit 212 that is mounted on a static base 214.

[0056] The first unit 202 further includes a floating base 206 that is configured to move in response to water waves of the water body 204. In this example, the floating base 206 may include a floater 224 (i.e., a floater tank) with a pump 224B. A defined weight of the floater 224 (i.e., a floater tank) may include but not limited to the weight of the liquid that is electrically pumped into the floater tank (i.e., the floater 224) by the pump 224B. The electrical supply to the pump 224B is through an electrical connection medium 224A (e.g., an insulated metallic wire, an electrical cable, etc.) provided from a power unit 220A. The power unit 220A may be the same as the energy storage device 134 of FIG. 1. A plimsoll line may be marked horizontally on the floater tank (e.g., the floater 224) to provide indication / s of partially submersed floater tank (i.e., the floater 224) in the water body 204. The floater tank may be an open tank holding water for any other supplementary use, like a fish tank. The first unit 202 further includes one or more vertical shafts mounted on the floating base 206. For example, the first vertical shaft 208 and the second vertical shaft 210 are mounted on the floating base 206. In an implementation, the floating base 106 includes a floater 224 and a defined weight disposed on the floater 224. In an exemplary implementation, an axle 245 is connected to the horizontal axle 216, such as through a pin 240A and a balancing gravitational weight 248 is connected to the axle 245 through a pin or bolts 242. In an example, one or more balancing gravitational weights are connected to the axle 245. Moreover, the balancing gravitational weight 248 provides a downward force on a pin 240B to balance the weight of the horizontal axle 216, the first vertical axle 208, and the floating base 206. In other words, the length, width, and the weight of the axle 245 acts as a counterweight against the opposite side of the horizontal axle 216. However, the defined weight 226 provides a driving force to the generator 230 and provides the downward force to the floater 224. Thus, the required balance is achieved on both the sides of the horizontal axle 216 and the main pin 238. In addition, the upward displacement force of the floater 224 is also used to drive the generator 230 and to store the energy of the defined weight 226. In an exemplary implementation, the energy storage device (e.g., the energy storage device 134 of FIG. 1) is used to provide energy to the generator 230 to maintain the continuous motion of the horizontal shaft 216.

[0057] The second unit 212 is mountable on a land body to provide safe, efficient, reliable, and more accessible facilities for repairing as well as servicing of the power generation apparatus 200 with reduced complexity. The second unit 212 includes a horizontal axle 216 that is configured to connect the second unit 212 with the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 202. The second unit 212 further includes a gear assembly 218 that is configured to convert a movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 202 into the electrical energy. In this embodiment, the gear assembly 218 includes the plurality of gears that are interlinked with each other such that a rotatory motion of one gear engages and causes another gear to rotate. The gear assembly 218 includes the plurality of gears, such as a first gear 218A, a second gear 218B, a third gear 218C, a fourth gear 218D, a fifth gear 218E, and a sixth gear 218F that are interlinked with each other. For example, the first gear 218A is engaged with the second gear 218B. Similarly, the second gear 218B is engaged with the third gear 218C, and the third gear 218C is engaged with the fourth gear 218D.

[0058] In an implementation, the gear assembly 218 further includes the first gear 218A that is engaged with the horizontal axle 216. Moreover, when the horizontal axle 216 performs the upward or downward motion, then the first gear 218A is rotated, which in turn causes other gears including the generator gear 230 of the gear assembly 218 to rotate to generate the electrical energy. In other words, the upward or downward motion of horizontal axle 216 causes the rotation of the generator gear 230 for the conversion of the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. The first gear 218A ultimately causes the generator gear 230 to rotate with high revolutions per minute (RPM), which is used to generate the required amount of the electrical energy. The second unit 212 further includes a linear motion actuator 220 that is connected to the horizontal axle 216 at a defined pivot point 222 to control the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle 216 caused in response to the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 202. The linear motion actuator 220 may be an electrical linear motion actuator, a mechanical linear motion actuator, or a hydraulic system controlled by an electrical motor.

[0059] In an implementation, a motorized gear 256 is secured within the gear assembly 218. The motorized gear 256 is configured to drive a gear 252 that is secured to a shaft of the generator 230. The gear assembly 218 includes gear 218F that is also secured to the same shaft of the generator 230, such that the motion from the motorized gear 256 is transferred to the gear 252. This configuration enables rotation of the generator shaft 230 and gear 218F, whereby the motion is transferred to gear 218E, which is engaged with gear 218D, and subsequently to other gears of the gear assembly 218.

[0060] During operation of the apparatus 200, the motorized gear 256 receives initial start-up energy from an energy storage device. Once operational, the generator 230 supplies electrical energy to the motorized gear 256 either directly or via the energy storage device, which may also be recharged by other renewable energy sources. The motorized gear 256 is configured to operate in synchronization with the linear motion actuator 220.

[0061] In an implementation, the defined pivot point 222 is adjustable to cause a variable transmission of a driving force from the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle 216 to the gear assembly 218. In other words, the power generation apparatus 200 provides a variable option for the transmission of the driving force from the horizontal axle 216 to the plurality of gears, such as the first gear 218A which are separate units on the defined pivot point 222. A plurality of securing bolts 226 may be used to fasten a gear box housing of the gear assembly 218 to a frame 232 of the second unit 212. There is further shown a hydraulic ram 234. Without limiting the scope of the disclosure, there may be many ways to connect the hydraulic ram 234 and / or the linear motion actuator 220 in the second unit 212. In an example, like shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 A, a movable portion may be provided in the power generation apparatus 100, where the movable portion may include at least two plates that are arranged parallel to each other. A first end of the movable part (say one end of a plate) may be movably atached to the frame 132 of the second unit 112 along with the first gear 218A, and a second end of the movable part (another end of the plate) is fixedly atached to the horizontal axle 216, as shown in FIG. 3A. Alternatively and optionally, depending on an exemplary configuration of the second unit and availability of adequate space in such exemplary configuration, the hydraulic ram 234 may be mounted on the static base 214 or connected to the frame 232.

[0062] In an implementation, the second unit 212 further includes a frame 232 that is configured to mount the gear assembly 218, the linear motion actuator 220, one end of the horizontal axle 216, and one or more other components of the second unit 212. In an implementation, the second unit 212 further includes a retainer axle 228 that includes a first end and a second end. Moreover, the first end is connected to the frame 232 and the second end is connected to at least one vertical shaft of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 202. In an implementation, the second end of the retainer axle 228 is connected to the first vertical shaft 208 of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 202. In another implementation, the second end of the retainer axle 228 is connected to the second vertical shaft 210 of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 202.

[0063] The power generation apparatus 200 provides an improved and effective transmission of the mechanical energy produced by the movement of the floating base 206 to the gear assembly 218 of the second unit 212 via the horizontal axle 216. Further, the linear motion actuator 220 connected to the horizontal axle 216 controls the upward and the downward motion of the horizontal axle 216, which reduces the complexity and improves the effectiveness of the motion translation from the horizontal axle 216 to the gear assembly 218 to convert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. The horizontal axle 216 is connected to the first unit 202 and the second unit 112 with the defined pivot point 222 that provides an improved and controlled power generation. Additionally, the first unit 202 of the power generation apparatus 200 is constructed from non-corrosive material and is not fully submerged in the water body 204 that further reduces the risk of corrosion from salinization. Thus, the power generation apparatus 200 provides an efficient, reliable, and effective power generation with reduced complexity. Moreover, the power generation apparatus 200 can be used for readily accessible transmission of the electricity to the required source, such as a powerhouse through power lines. FIGs. 3A and 3B are diagrams that depict different perspective views of a power generation apparatus, in accordance with different embodiments of the present disclosure. FIGs. 3A and 3B are described in conjunction with elements from FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. With reference to FIG. 3A, there is shown a perspective view 300A of the power generation apparatus 100 that includes the horizontal axle 116 in a first position (e.g., a downward position). With reference to FIG. 3B, there is shown another perspective view 300B of the power generation apparatus 100 that includes the horizontal axle 116 in a second position (i.e., upward position). In this exemplary implementation, the power generation apparatus 100 may include a movable part 302. The movable part 302 comprises at least two plates 302A and 302B that are arranged parallel to each other. There is further shown a connecting rod 306, a defined pivot point 310, and a plurality of screws, such as a first screw 308A, and a second screw 308B. The two plates 302A and 302B are connected with each other via the connecting rod 306.

[0064] In an implementation, the horizontal axle 116 of the second unit 112 moves in the upward and the downward direction for the transmission of the mechanical energy from the first unit 102 to the gear assembly 118 of the second unit 112, where the upward and the downward motion is facilitated by the movable part 302. A first end 304A of the movable part 302 is movably attached to the frame 132 of the second unit 112 along with the first gear 118A, and a second end 304B of the movable part 302 is fixedly attached to the horizontal axle 116, as shown in FIG. 3A. In addition, the first gear 118A of the gear assembly 118 is also engaged with the horizontal axle 116 via the movable part 302. For example, the connecting rod 306 and the plurality of screws, such as the first screw 308A and the second screw 308B are used to engage the first gear 118A of the gear assembly 118 with the horizontal axle 116. However, the first gear 118A of the gear assembly 118 can be engaged with the horizontal axle 116 through other possible combinations. In this implementation, the linear motion actuator 120 is engaged with the movable part 302 through the defined pivot point 310 instead of a direct connection with the horizontal axle 116. The movable part 302 of the second unit 112 allow the upward and the downward movement of the horizontal axle 116 through the linear motion actuator 120. In other words, the linear motion actuator 120 is used to control the upward and downward movement of a main axle, such as the horizontal axle 116 to generate electricity, for example, to provide power to a fan and a light bulb. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a method for generating power by harnessing motion of water waves, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 is described in conjunction with elements from FIGs. 1 to 3B. With reference to FIG. 4, there is shown a method 400 for generating power by harnessing the motion of water waves. The method 400 includes steps 402 to 410. The method 400 is executed by the power generation apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 (or the power generation apparatus 200 of FIG. 2).

[0065] The method 400 is used to convert a mechanical energy into an electrical energy by harnessing the motion of water waves. The method 400 is used to provide improved efficiency in power generation and effective relay or transmission of movement of the first unit 102 to the gear assembly 118 of the second unit 112 via the horizontal axle 116 of the power generation apparatus 100.

[0066] At step 402, the method 400 comprises mounting one or more vertical shafts on a floating base 106 to form the first unit 102 that floats on the water body 104 and moves in response to the water waves of the water body 104. The floating base 106 of the first unit 102 is constructed from a non-corrosive material and is not fully submerged (i.e., partially submerged) into the water body 104, due to which, the risk of corrosion is reduced. In addition, the rise and fall of the water waves in the water body 104 results in the movement of the floating base 106 to activate the first unit 102.

[0067] At step 404, the method 400 further comprises mounting the second unit 112 on the static base 114 near the water body 104 at a defined distance from the first unit 102. The static base 114 is arranged on a land body that provides safe, efficient, reliable, and more accessible facilities for repairing as well as servicing of the power generation apparatus 100 with reduced complexity.

[0068] At step 406, the method 400 further comprises connecting the horizontal axle 116 provided at the second unit 112 to the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. The horizontal axle 116 links the first unit 102 with the second unit 112. In addition, the rise and fall of the water waves in the water body 104 results in the movement of the floating base 106 to activate the first unit 102 that further enabling the transmission of mechanical energy from the first unit 102 to the second unit 112 through the horizontal axle 116. At step 408, the method 400 further comprises converting, by a gear assembly 118 of the second unit 112, a movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102 into the electrical energy. Moreover, the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102 is relayed to the gear assembly 118 of the second unit 112 via the horizontal axle 116. In other words, the gear assembly 118 is configured to convert the mechanical energy into the electrical energy.

[0069] At step 410, the method 400 further comprises controlling, by the linear motion actuator 120, an upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle 116 caused in response to the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. The linear motion actuator 120 is connected to the horizontal axle 116 at the defined pivot point 122. In an example, the defined pivot point 122 can be connected at different points of the horizontal axle 116 to restrict the motion of the horizontal axle 116 in an undesired direction.

[0070] In an implementation, the method 400 further comprises, engaging, the first gear 118A of the gear assembly 118 with the horizontal axle 116 such that when the horizontal axle 116 performs the upward or downward motion the first gear 118A is rotated, which in turn causes other gears including the generator gear 130 of the gear assembly 118 to rotate to generate the electrical energy. In other words, the first gear 118A causes the generator gear 130 to rotate with high revolutions per minute (RPM), which is used to generate the required amount of the electrical energy.

[0071] In an implementation, the method 400 further comprises restraining a distance between the first unit 102 and the second unit 112 using the retainer axle 128 wherein the retainer axle 128 has a first end and a second end. The first end is connected to the frame 132 of the second unit 112 and the second end is connected to at least one vertical shaft of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit 102. In other words, the retainer axle 128 connects the first unit 102 with the second unit 112 through the one of the vertical shafts of the first unit 102 and the frame 132 of the second unit 112 to control the movement of the floating base 106 during the high rise of the water waves.

[0072] The method 400 is used to provide an improved efficient and effective transmission of the mechanical energy from the floating base 106 to the gear assembly 118 of the second unit 112 via the horizontal axle 116 for converting the mechanical energy into the electrical energy. Further, the linear motion actuator 120 is connected to the horizontal axle 116 for controlling the upward and the downward motion of the horizontal axle 116, which is reducing the complexity and improving the effectiveness of the motion translation from the horizontal axle 116 to the gear assembly 118. The horizontal axle 116 is connected to the first unit 102 and the second unit 112 with the defined pivot point 122 for providing an improved and controlled power generation.

[0073] The steps 402 to 410 are only illustrative, and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

[0074] Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as "including", "comprising", "incorporating", "have", "is" used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural. The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance or illustration". Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and / or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments. The word "optionally" is used herein to mean "is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments". It is appreciated that certain features of the present disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the present disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A power generation apparatus (100, 200), comprising: a first unit (102, 202) configured to float on a water body (104, 204), wherein the first unit (102, 202) comprises: a floating base (106, 206) configured to move in response to water waves of the water body (104, 204); and one or more vertical shafts mounted on the floating base (106, 206); and a second unit (112, 212) configured to be mounted on a static base (114, 214), wherein the second unit (112, 212) comprises: a horizontal axle (116, 216) configured to connect the second unit (112, 212) with the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202); a gear assembly (118, 218) configured to convert a movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202) into an electrical energy, wherein the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202) is relayed to the gear assembly (118, 218) of the second unit (112, 212) via the horizontal axle (116, 216); and a linear motion actuator (120, 220) that is connected to the horizontal axle (116, 216) at a defined pivot point (122, 222) to control an upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle (116, 216) caused in response to the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202).

2. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to claim 1, wherein the floating base (106, 206) comprises a floater (124, 224) and a defined weight (126) disposed on the floater (124, 224).

3. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second unit (112, 212) further comprises a frame (132, 232) configured to mount the gear assembly (118, 218), the linear motion actuator (120, 220), one end of the horizontal axle (116, 216), and one or more other components of the second unit (112, 212).

4. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second unit (112, 212) further comprises a retainer axle (128, 228) having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the frame (132, 232) andthe second end is connected to at least one vertical shaft of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202).

5. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gear assembly (118, 218) comprises a plurality of gears that are interlinked with each other such that a rotatory motion of one gear engages and causes another gear to rotate.

6. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to claim 5, wherein at least one gear of the plurality of gears comprises a plurality of slots to accommodate a fixing means in the horizontal axle (116, 216) when the at least one gear rotates in response to the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle (116, 216).

7. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the gear assembly (118, 218) further comprises a first gear (118A, 218A) that is engaged with the horizontal axle (116, 216) such that when the horizontal axle ( 116, 216) performs the upward or downward motion, the first gear (118A, 218A) is rotated which in turn causes other gears including a generator gear (130, 230) of the gear assembly (118, 218) to rotate to generate the electrical energy.

8. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to claim 7, wherein second unit (112, 212) further comprises a movable part (302) having a first end (304A) and a second end (304B), and wherein the first end (304A) of the movable part (302) is movably attached to a frame (132, 232) of the second unit (112, 212) along with the first gear (118A, 218A), and the second end (304B) is fixedly attached to the horizontal axle (116, 216), and wherein the first gear (118 A, 218 A) of the gear ass embly (118, 218) is engaged with the horizontal axle (116, 216) via the movable part (302).

9. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the linear motion actuator (120, 220) is an electrical linear motion actuator, a mechanical linear motion actuator, or a hydraulic system controlled by an electrical motor.

10. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second unit (112, 212) further comprises an energy storage device (134) configured to power the linear motion actuator (120, 220).

11. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to claim 10, wherein the energy storage device (134) is charged by an external renewable power source or via the electrical energy output of the power generation apparatus (100, 200) when the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle (116, 216) is established.

12. The power generation apparatus (100, 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the defined pivot point (122, 222) is adjustable to cause a variable transmission of a driving force from the upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle (116, 216) to the gear assembly (118, 218).

13. A method (400) for generating power by harnessing motion of water waves, the method comprising: mounting one or more vertical shafts on a floating base (106, 206) to form a first unit (102, 202) that floats on a water body (104, 204) and moves in response to the water waves of the water body (104, 204); mounting a second unit (112, 212) on a static base (114, 214) near the water body (104, 204) at a defined distance from the first unit (102, 202); connecting a horizontal axle (116, 216) provided at the second unit (112, 212) to the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202); converting, by a gear assembly (118, 218) of the second unit (112, 212), a movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202) into an electrical energy, wherein the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202) is relayed to the gear assembly (118, 218) of the second unit (112, 212) via the horizontal axle (116, 216); and controlling, by a linear motion actuator (120, 220), an upward and downward motion of the horizontal axle (116, 216) caused in response to the movement of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202), wherein the linear motion actuator (120, 220) is connected to the horizontal axle (116, 216) at a defined pivot point (122, 222).

14. The method (400) according to claim 13, further comprising engaging a first gear (118A, 218A) of the gear assembly (118, 218) with the horizontal axle (116, 216) such that when the horizontal axle (116, 216) performs the upward or downward motion, the first gear (118A, 218A) is rotated which in turn causes other gears including a generator gear (130, 230) of the gear assembly (118, 218) to rotate to generate the electrical energy.

15. The method (400) according to claims 13 or 14, further comprising restraining a distance between the first unit (102, 202) and the second unit (112, 212) using a retainer axle (128), wherein the retainer axle (128, 228) has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to a frame (132, 232) of the second unit (112, 212) and the second end is connected to at least one vertical shaft of the one or more vertical shafts of the first unit (102, 202).

Images