Retractable offtake for wave energy converter (WEC)

Abstract

Embodiments disclosed herein include a wave energy converter (WEC) that includes a buoyant chamber, and a tube that depends from the buoyant chamber. In an embodiment, a retractable offtake is coupled to the tube. In an embodiment, the retractable offtake comprises a housing with a receiving portion, where a first opening and a second opening are within the receiving portion. In an embodiment, the retractable offtake further comprises a line with a first end and a second end, where the line is configured to pass through the second opening. In an embodiment, a weight is coupled to the line, and a buoy is coupled to the line proximate to the first end of the line, where the buoy is configured to float in a body of water, and where the weight is coupled to the line so that the line passively retracts into the housing.

Description

[0001] RETRACTABLE OFFTAKE FOR WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER (WEC)

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 569,675, filed on

[0004] March 25, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] Transitioning energy production from the burning of fossil fuels towards green energy solutions has been driven by concerns for environmental protection and the depletion of resources, among many other concerns. So called green energy solutions (or renewable energy solutions) typically utilize energy inherent in our environment that can be converted into a useable form (e.g., electricity). Some green energy solutions include solar power, wind power, and wave power. In the case of wave power, the oscillations of waves within a body of water (e.g., an ocean) can be used to generate electricity through the use of devices that translate kinetic energy of a fluid into electrical energy (e.g., a turbine coupled to a generator). One issue with wave powered solutions is the need to transport the electrical energy back to shore for subsequent use. Accordingly, some solutions have proposed converting the electrical energy into an energy product that can be more easily transported to shore. For example, the energy product may include a liquid or gas fuel.

[0007] A vessel (e.g., a boat) may need to couple a hose to the wave energy converter in order to remove the energy product and / or resupply precursors to the wave energy converter. This coupling proves to be challenging. In an environment suitable for energy generation, the wave energy converter and the vessel will move relative to each other due to wave oscillations, wind, currents, etc. In some instances, the environment may be particularly harsh due to cold temperature and / or storms. As such, a manual coupling may not be desirable for safety or cost considerations. Therefore, it may be desirable to provide a simple mechanical solution to engage coupling between a wave energy converted and a vessel in order to allow for energy product offtake and / or precursor delivery.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Disclosed herein is a wave energy converter (WEC) that includes a retractable offtake system. The retractable offtake system includes a housing that is coupled to the vertical tube of the WEC. The housing includes a frustoconical receiving portion that couples to a port. The frustoconical receiving portion functions as a guide in order to deliver an incoming nozzle into the port. The port is coupled to a reservoir for an energy product and / or precursors used in the generation of the energy product. The retractable offtake further comprises a line with a weight on a first end and a buoy on a second end. The weight and the first end of the line are provided within the housing. The line passes through the housing and out the frustoconical receiving portion into a surrounding body of water. The second end of the line is maintained near the surface of the body of water by the buoy. The weight keeps the line from being pulled further away from the WEC. In an embodiment, a vessel may approach the WEC and capture the buoy from the surface of the body of water. The line is pulled into the vessel and the weight is raised vertically in the housing. A hose with a nozzle can be coupled to the line. As the line is released from the vessel, the weight sinks in the housing and the line (with the hose) is retracted towards the frustoconical receiving portion. The frustoconical receiving portion guides the nozzle into the port, and the nozzle engages with the port (e.g., through a quick connect solution or the like). With the nozzle fluidically coupled to the port, energy products (e.g., hydrogen gas) can be transferred from the WEC to the vessel. Precursors (e.g., water) can be transferred from the vessel to the WEC in some instances as well. After the transfer(s) between the WEC and the vessel, the nozzle and hose can be retracted by the vessel and disconnected from the line. The weight retracts the line back into the housing with the buoy remaining at the surface of the body of water for subsequent transfer operations.

[0010] In an embodiment, the retractable offtake system has several benefits. In one instance, the retractable offtake system may have no complicated mechanical structures. Instead, a housing, a line, a weight, a buoy, and a port may be provided. As such, mechanical or environmental wear that requires maintenance or replacement is limited or avoided completely. Additionally, the retractable offtake system may operate passively (with respect to the WEC). That is, the WEC does not need to supply energy or power in order to operate the retractable offtake system. Any energy applied to the system may be provided by the vessel, which raises the weight by pulling in the line. Further, since the weight and line are coupled to the WEC through the housing, the dropping weight pulls the nozzle and hose (which are coupled to the line) to the port with a selfaligned process. That is, there is no need for active directional control of the nozzle and hose. Self-alignment may be further improved through the use of the frustoconical receiving portion which can directly guide the nozzle to the port with a passive process.

[0011] As will be described herein, the retractable offtake systems can be provided with various configurations and / or designs. In one instance, the retractable offtake system is entirely below a surface of the body of water (except for the buoy at the surface of the body of water). In another embodiment, the retractable offtake system may have a frustoconical receiving portion that is above the surface of the body of water. The frustoconical receiving portion may also be at a top of the WEC in some embodiments. In an embodiment, the housing for guiding the weight may have a closed bottom. Such an embodiment may be used when a length of the housing is sufficient to accommodate a length of the line that allows for safe coupling with a vessel. In other embodiment, the housing for guiding the weight may have an open bottom. This allows the weight to drop below a bottom of the WEC in some instances. The retractable offtake system may also include one or more pulleys, coils, or additional buoys in order to retain the line while still allowing for extraction and passive retraction of the line.

[0012] In an embodiment, the nozzle and the port may have any coupling structure suitable for fluid and / or gas transport between the WEC and the vessel. The coupling structure may be any suitable quick connect architecture. The nozzle and the port may be retained together through force applied by the weight coupled to the line. In other embodiments, the weight provides the force to initially engage the nozzle with the port, and after the initial connection the port and nozzle retain the connection without the application of external force. In an embodiment, an electrically or mechanically actuated cam and groove coupling may be provided to engage the nozzle with the port. In an embodiment, the nozzle and / or hose may also comprise thrusters, propellers, and / or the like in order to enhance travel of the nozzle and / or hose through the body of water.

[0013] While embodiments disclosed herein are particularly beneficial for the transfer of gasses or liquids between a WEC and a vessel, embodiments are not limited to such configurations. For example, hoses from the vessel may be replaced with cables to provide data or electrical power transfer between the WEC and the vessel. The cables may include optical cables (e.g., for fiber optic communication), electrical cables (e.g., for inductive connections), or provide for radio connections. Instead of a “port”, the retractable offtake system may include a receptacle in order to receive the optical / electrical plug attached to the cable. The plug may be passively self-aligned to the receptacle using a similar weighted line with a frustoconical receiving portion.

[0014] Further, while some embodiments comprise a WEC with a retractable offtake system, other embodiments may include any vessel or object with a retractable offtake system. For example, buoys that do not generate energy from wave motion can also include retractable offtake systems. For example, a fuel source (e.g., for use to enable propulsion of the vessel, to enable electronics on the vessel, to enable heating, or the like) can be provided to the vessel or buoy through the use of a retractable offtake system.

[0015] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of a wave energy converter (WEC) with a retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view of the WEC in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a side view of the WEC in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a side view of the WEC in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 5 is a side view of the WEC in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a top-down view of the WEC in FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a bottom-up view of the WEC in FIG. 1 , in accordance with an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a WEC with an approaching vessel, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 9 is a plan view of a WEC with an approaching vessel, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG 10 is a cross-sectional view of the WEC in FIG. 8 as the vessel captures a buoy of the retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a plan view of the WEC in FIG. 9 as the vessel captures the buoy of the retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the WEC in FIG. 10 as the vessel pulls in a line of the retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 13 is a plan view of the WEC in FIG. 11 as the vessel pulls in the line of the retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the WEC in FIG. 12 as an offtake hose is coupled to the line and pulled back into the retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 15 is a plan view of the WEC in FIG. 13 as the offtake hose is coupled to the line and pulled back into the retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional illustration of a port with a frustoconical receiving portion for accepting a nozzle in a retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 17 is a side view of the port with the frustoconical receiving portion in FIG. 16, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional illustration of the port in FIG. 16 engaged with the nozzle, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 19 is a side view of the port with the engaged nozzle of FIG. 18, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional illustration of a port with a frustoconical receiving portion for accepting a nozzle with a quick-connect coupling in a retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional illustration of the port in FIG. 20 engaged with the nozzle, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional illustration of a nozzle and a hose that comprise one or more thrusters, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional illustration of a port with a frustoconical receiving portion for accepting a nozzle for electrical and / or data transmission, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional illustration of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that includes a housing with an open bottom, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional illustration of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that includes a vertical pipe with an open bottom and an integrated pulley system, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional illustration of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that includes a pulley that is coupled to a buoy, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional illustration of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that includes a spring loaded reel that is coupled to a buoy, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional illustration of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that includes a bottom opening for coupling with a submersible vessel, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 29 is a side perspective view of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that extends along an outer surface of an upper chamber of the WEC, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 30 is a side perspective view of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that extends along an outer surface of an upper chamber of the WEC and ends at a top of the WEC, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 31 is a view of the WEC in FIG. 30 where the retractable offtake system is being coupled to a vessel, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that illustrates energy generation and fuel production processes, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of a WEC with a retractable offtake system that illustrates the generation of biological products within the WEC, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a system for coupling a WEC to a vessel for energy product offtake from the WEC and / or precursor delivery to the WEC, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 35 is a schematic view of an energy flow diagram depicting the generation and transfer of energy products from the WEC to shore, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 36 is a side perspective view of a WEC with a retractable offtake with an energy product conversion plant integrated on the WEC, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 37 is a schematic view of an energy product conversion plant integrated on a vessel, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 38 is a schematic of an energy product conversion process, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 39 is a side perspective view of a WEC with a retractable offtake with a computing system integrated on the WEC, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a computing system that can be integrated with a WEC that comprises a retractable offtake, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a server system that can be integrated with a WEC that comprises a retractable offtake, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 42 is a process flow diagram of a process for generating an energy product with a WEC and transporting the energy product to a vessel with a retractable offtake, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0055] FIG. 43 is a process flow diagram of a process for energy product generation and conversion on a WEC and transporting the converted energy product to a vessel with a retractable offtake, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0056] FIG. 44 is a process flow diagram of a process for generating an energy product with a WEC and transporting the energy product to a vessel with a retractable offtake, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0057] FIG. 45 is a process flow diagram of a process for generating an energy product with a WEC that includes a retractable offtake and using the energy product to produce digital goods, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0058] DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0059] For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the disclosure, reference should be made to the following detailed description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings. The following figures, and the illustrations offered therein, in no way constitute limitations, either explicit or implicit, on the scope of the current disclosure. Various embodiments or aspects of the disclosure are described herein. In some implementations, the different embodiments are practiced separately. However, embodiments are not limited to embodiments being practiced in isolation. For example, two or more different embodiments can be combined together in order to be practiced as a single device, process, structure, or the like. The entirety of various embodiments can be combined together in some instances. In other instances, portions of a first embodiment can be combined with portions of one or more different embodiments. For example, a portion of a first embodiment can be combined with a portion of a second embodiment, or a portion of a first embodiment can be combined with a portion of a second embodiment and a portion of a third embodiment.

[0060] The embodiments illustrated and discussed in relation to the figures included herein are provided for the purpose of explaining some of the basic principles of the disclosure. However, the scope of this disclosure covers all related, potential, and / or possible, embodiments, even those differing from the idealized and / or illustrative examples presented. This disclosure covers even those embodiments which incorporate and / or utilize modern, future, and / or as of the time of this writing unknown, components, devices, systems, etc., as replacements for the functionally equivalent, analogous, and / or similar, components, devices, systems, etc., used in the embodiments illustrated and / or discussed herein for the purpose of explanation, illustration, and example.

[0061] The scope of this disclosure includes embodiments possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, any number of retractable offtake systems. The scope of this disclosure includes embodiments possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, retractable offtake systems made of any and all materials. The scope of this disclosure includes retractable offtake systems that include a housing for housing one or more weights coupled to a line. The housing may have any diameter, length, cross-section, material composition, and / or position relative to the attached wave energy converter (WEC).

[0062] The scope of this disclosure includes embodiments possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, wave-motion energized power take offs, including, but not limited to: fluid and / or hydrokinetic turbines of any and all types, any and all diameters, any and all efficiencies, any and all power ratings, and made of any and all materials; magnetohydrodynamic generators of any and all types, any and all diameters, any and all efficiencies, any and all power ratings, and made of any and all materials; hydraulic pumps, accumulators, and / or generators, of any and all types, any and all diameters, any and all efficiencies, any and all power ratings, and made of any and all materials; pendulum mechanisms, and / or mechanisms possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, unbalanced and / or off-axis weights, of any and all types, any and all diameters, any and all efficiencies, any and all power ratings, and made of any and all materials; electrical generators and / or alternators of any and all types, any and all diameters, any and all efficiencies, any and all power ratings, and made of any and all materials; and / or energy conversion mechanisms, systems, and / or apparatuses, of any and all types, any and all diameters, any and all efficiencies, any and all power ratings, and made of any and all materials. Such devices may generally be referred to as a WEC.

[0063] The scope of this disclosure includes embodiments possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, any number of fluid chambers, and fluid chambers of any design, size, shape, volume, relative and / or absolute position within an embodiment. The scope of this disclosure includes embodiments possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, fluid chambers made of any and all materials. The scope of this disclosure includes embodiments possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, any number of fluid channels, and fluid channels of any design, size, shape, volume, relative and / or absolute position within an embodiment. The scope of this disclosure includes embodiments possessing, incorporating, including, and / or utilizing, fluid channels made of any and all materials.

[0064] A portion of many embodiments of the present disclosure include, incorporate, and / or utilize, at least one buoyant portion, buoy, vessel, and / or module. These buoyant portions may be referred to as hollow flotation modules, buoys, buoyant capsules, buoyant chambers, buoyant compartments, buoyant enclosures, buoyant vessels, hollow balls, and / or hollow spheroids. Many terms, names, descriptors, and / or labels, could adequately distinguish an embodiment’s buoyant portion from among its other components, features, and / or elements, and the scope of the present disclosure incorporates any naming convention and / or choice, and is not limited by the nomenclature used to describe an embodiment or its parts.

[0065] Referring now to FIG. 1, a side perspective view of a wave energy converter (WEC) 100 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 100 may float on a body of water 101. For example, a buoyant chamber 102 may be provided along a surface of the body of water 101. The buoyant chamber 102 may be coupled to a tube 104 that extends down from the buoyant chamber 102 into the body of water 101. The tube 104 has an opening at the bottom to allow water to enter the tube 104. In some embodiments, the WEC 100 may include buoyant chamber 102 with a diameter that is approximately 20 meters or smaller, approximately, 10 meters or smaller, or approximately 1 meter or smaller. Though, larger diameters may also be used. A length of the tube 104 may be approximately 100 meters or less, approximately 50 meters or less, approximately 20 meters or less, or approximately 1 meter or less. Though, larger lengths may also be used in some embodiments. More generally, a length of the tube 104 may be related to a diameter of the buoyant chamber 102 by a ratio of (tube length:chamber diameter) that is 0.5:1 or greater, 1: 1 or greater, 2:1 or greater, 5:1 or greater, or 10:1 or greater. Though, smaller ratios may also be used in some embodiments.

[0066] During oscillation (i.e., rising and falling) of the WEC 100 in response to waves passing through and / or over the body of water 101, water in the tube 104 may be injected into the buoyant chamber 102. As will be described in greater detail below, the oscillation of the WEC 100 may generate pressure differences within the WEC 100 (or between the interior of the WEC 100 and the external environment) that drive water (or other fluid) through a turbine (not visible in FIG.1 ) or the like. The turbine can be coupled to a generator (not visible in FIG. 1) that converts rotational energy into electrical power. In some embodiments, the electrical power is used to generate an energy product (e.g., hydrogen gas generation through an electrolysis process) that is stored in a chamber 103. The chamber 103 in FIG. 1 partially wraps around the tube 104. In other embodiments, the chamber 103 may be provided within the buoyant chamber 102, above the buoyant chamber 102, and / or retained proximate to the WEC 100.

[0067] In an embodiment, the energy product will be removed from the WEC 100 at various intervals. During the offloading of the energy product, one or more precursors for the generation of the energy product may also be loaded onto the WEC 100. As described above, the offtake process is difficult to implement due to (at least in part) the constant relative position changes between the WEC 100 and the vessel (not shown in FIG. 1) used to offload the energy product. Accordingly, embodiments disclosed herein may include a retractable offtake system that is configured to passively align and connect a hose from the vessel to a port on the WEC 100.

[0068] In an embodiment, the retractable offtake system may include a housing 108 that is coupled to the WEC 100. For example, the housing 108 may be welded to the tube 104 or attached to the tube 104 using straps, bolts, screws, plates, latches, snap fittings, and / or the like. The housing 108 may be tube like with a cylindrical cross-section or any other shaped cross-section. The diameter of the housing 108 may be suitable to house one or more weights (not visible in FIG. 1) that are coupled to a first end of a line 105. The line 105 may pass up through the housing 108 and exit the housing 108 through a receiving portion 109. A second end of the line 105 may be coupled to a buoy 106 that suspends the second end of the line 105 proximate to a surface of the body of water 101.

[0069] In an embodiment, the line 105 may comprise any material or materials suitable for use in marine environments. The line 105 may be nylon, polyester, polypropylene or other polymeric based materials. The line 105 may also comprise a composite base material, such as one including carbon fibers, aramid fibers, or the like. The line 105 may also comprise a metallic based material, such as stainless steel, galvanized metals, or plastic coated metals. The line 105 may have a length that allows for the second end of the line 105 to be located proximate to the surface of the body of water 101 and within a given distance of the WEC 100. For example, the buoy 106 may float within 10 meters of the WEC 100, within 50 meters of the WEC, or within 100 meters of the WEC. Though, larger distances may also be used in some embodiments.

[0070] In an embodiment, the housing 108 may have a bottom that is enclosed. The enclosed bottom of the housing 108 provides a support surface for the weight to rest after the line 105 is fully retracted. The opposite end of the housing 108 may have a receiving portion 109. The receiving portion 109 may be provided after a turn or bend in the housing 108 near the top of the housing 108. Though, in other embodiments, the turn or bend may be omitted and / or integrated as part of the receiving portion 109. The receiving portion 109 may have a frustoconical shape, a flared shape, or the like. The frustoconical shape allows for a hose or nozzle (from the vessel) to be passively directed to a port (not visible in FIG. 1) within the receiving portion 109.

[0071] In an embodiment, the port within the receiving portion 109 may be fluidically coupled to the chamber 103. For example, pipe 107 may fluidically couple the chamber 103 to the port. When a nozzle from the vessel is engaged with the port, the vessel becomes fluidically coupled to the chamber 103. In some embodiments, pressure differentials between the chamber 103 and a chamber on the vessel allow for passive flow of fluids or gasses between the chamber 103 and the vessel. For example, energy products can passively flow from the chamber 103 to the vessel, or precursors can passively flow from the vessel to the chamber 103. In some embodiments, active pumping may be implemented (on the WEC 100 side, on the vessel side, or on both sides). Pumping may increase the speed of fluid or gas transfer and / or provide more complete emptying of the chamber 103.

[0072] As used herein, “fluidically coupled” may refer to two components that are configured to allow for the transfer of one or more fluids (e.g., gas and / or liquid) between the two components. For example, a first chamber may be fluidically coupled to a second chamber, when a gas from the first chamber is capable of flowing (either actively (e.g., through pumping) or passively (e.g., through pressure differentials)) from the first chamber to the second chamber and / or from the second chamber to the first chamber. Fluidically coupled components may be directly connected to each other. That is, there may not be any intervening components between the first component and the second component. In other instances, one or more additional intervening components (e.g., pipes, valves, chambers, reactors, etc.) may be provided between the first component and the second component so long as the one or more fluids are capable of being transferred between the first chamber and the second chamber along a path that includes the one or more intervening components. Additionally, while “components” may be fluidically coupled with each other, the concept of fluidic coupling is not limited to structures such as chambers, containers, and the like. That is, a first volume of a liquid or gas may be fluidically coupled to a second volume of a liquid or gas even if one or both of the first volume and the second volume are not confined by any specific structure. For example, a volume of fluid within a WEC may be fluidically coupled to the body of water surrounding the WEC through a pipe, tube, port, opening or other passage through a surface of the WEC.

[0073] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the same WEC 100 that is illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0074] FIG. 3 shows a side view of the same WEC 100 that is illustrated in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. The view shown in FIG. 3 illustrates the straight on view of the receiving portion 109. As shown in FIG. 3, the receiving portion 109 may include a pair of openings. A first opening is a port 112. The port 112 is fluidically coupled to the chamber 103 by the pipe 107. The second opening is a hole 111 through which the line 105 passes in order to enter the housing 108. That is, the incoming nozzle (not shown in FIG. 3) and the line 105 (not shown in FIG. 3) may be directed to different openings in the receiving portion 109. A more detailed view of the receiving portion will be provided in greater detail below.

[0075] FIG. 4 shows a side view of the same WEC 100 that is illustrated in FIGs. 1-3. FIG. 5 shows a side view of the same WEC 100 that is illustrated in FIGs. 1-4.

[0076] FIG. 6 shows a top-down view of the same WEC 100 that is illustrated in FIGs. 1 -5. As shown in FIG. 6 the end of the receiving portion 109 extends past an outer diameter of the buoyant chamber 102. In other embodiments, the receiving portion 109 (and the housing 108) may be entirely within a footprint of the buoyant chamber 102.

[0077] FIG. 7 shows a bottom-up view of the same WEC 100 that is illustrated in FIGs. 1-6. Referring now to FIGs. 8 - 15, a series of cross-sectional views and corresponding plan vies depict a process for fluidically coupling a vessel 134 to a WEC 120 by way of a retractable offtake system is shown, in accordance with an embodiment.

[0078] In an embodiment, the WEC 120 may be similar to the WEC 100 described in greater detail above. For example, the WEC 120 may include a buoyant chamber 122 that is coupled to a tube 124 that extends down into the body of water 121. The WEC 120 may float at a surface of the body of water 121. In an embodiment, the vessel 134 may be any vessel suitable for collecting energy products and / or delivering precursors to the WEC 120. As shown in FIG.8, the vessel 134 is a boat or a floating vehicle that can actively move about the body of water 121. In other embodiments, aerial vehicles (e.g., helicopters, airships, drones, etc.) may also be able to fluidically couple with the WEC 120 using similar processes.

[0079] In an embodiment, the retractable offtake system may include a housing 128 that is coupled to the WEC 120. For example, the housing 128 may be coupled to the tube 124 of the WEC 120. The housing 128 may house a line 125 that can be pulled out of the housing 128 and passively retracted back into the housing 128. The line 125 may be similar to any of the lines described in greater detail herein. In an embodiment, a first end of the line 125 may be coupled to a weight 133. The weight 133 may be positioned within the housing 128, and the weight 133 may have a form factor that allows for displacement (up and down) within the housing 128. For example, a diameter of the weight 133 may be smaller than an inner diameter of the housing 128. The weight 133 may comprise any material with a density greater than water that provides a downward force suitable to keep the line 125 from floating away. For example, the weight 133 may comprise concrete, stainless steel, or the like. The weight 133 may have a mass of 50kg or higher, 100kg or higher, or 500kg or higher. Though, a weight 133 with a smaller mass may be suitable in some embodiments.

[0080] In an embodiment, the line 125 may pass through the housing 128 and out a receiving portion 129 in the body of water 121. A second end of the line 125 may be coupled to a floating device, such as a buoy 126. The buoy 126 is a visible indication of the location of the line 125 that can be identified by the vessel 134. The receiving portion 129 may have a frustoconical or flared shape structure with a pair of openings 141 and 142 at a base of the receiving portion 129. The line 125 may pass through the first opening 141. The second opening 142 may be a port that is coupled to a chamber 143. The chamber 143 may be fluidically coupled to a storage chamber (e.g., for hydrogen gas or the like). The storage chamber and the fluidic coupling to the chamber

[0081] 143 are not visible in the cross-section of FIG. 8.

[0082] In an embodiment, the vessel 134 approaches the buoy 126 in order to initiate the fluidic coupling process. For example, the vessel 134 may have an implement 135 for capturing the buoy 126. In FIG. 8, the implement 135 is shown as a scoop that can retain and / or retrieve the buoy 126. Though, any process, tool, or method may be used by the vessel 134 to capture the buoy 126. In some instances, a person can use a gaff or hook to secure the buoy 126. That is, the implement 135 does not necessarily have to be a component directly coupled to the vessel 134. Referring now to FIG. 9, a plan view illustration of the vessel 134 approaching the buoy 126 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The vessel 134 may have a deck 145. In an embodiment, an access hole 146 may be provided through the deck 145. The access hole 146 may be used to pass a hose (not visible in FIG. 9) up through the deck 145. In an embodiment, the implement 135 is shown as an element that is coupled to a front end of the vessel 134. The implement 135 may attach to the vessel 134 at one or more points (two attachment points are shown in FIG. 9). The implement 135 may rotate about the attachment points in order to bring the buoy 126 into the vessel 134. The implement 135 may comprise a pronged end 144 that is configured to capture the buoy 126. The pronged end 144 may be fixed, or the pronged end 144 may be capable of being actuated in order to more securely clamp the buoy 126.

[0083] Referring now to FIG. 10, a cross-sectional view of the process while the vessel 134 is retaining the buoy 126 with the implement 135 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. For example, the implement 135 may scoop up the buoy 126 from the surface of the body of water 121.

[0084] Referring now to FIG. 11, a plan view of the process in FIG. 10 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. As shown, the implement 135 is positioned below the buoy 126. The pronged end

[0085] 144 may be provided around the line 125, with the buoy 126 being supported by the pronged end 144. At this point, the buoy 126 is sufficiently secured so that the vessel 134 can rotate the implement 135 in order to retrieve the buoy 126.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 12, a cross-sectional view of the process while the vessel 134 pulls in the line 125 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. In an embodiment, the vessel 134 may pull in the line 125 manually, with a winch, or with any other suitable tool. As the line 125 is pulled onto the vessel 134, the weight 133 within the housing 128 is lifted, as indicated by the arrow. The portion of the line 125 that is retrieved by the vessel 134 may be stored on the deck 145 of the vessel 134. For example the buoy 126 rests on the deck 145 of the vessel 134. In an embodiment, a hose 137 from the vessel 134 is coupled to the line 125. For example, a coupling element 147 may couple the hose 137 to the line 125. The hose 137 may include a nozzle 148 that is used to interface with the port in the second opening 142. The nozzle 148 and port coupling is described in greater detail below. The hose 137 may be coupled to the line 125 with any semi-permanent coupling arrangement. That is, the hose 137 and the line 125 are coupled temporarily during the fluid / gas transfer process, but will be able to be decoupled after the transfer process. For example, the coupling between the hose 137 and the line 125 may include a press fitting, a hook, a tie, a shackle, a clamp, an adhesive, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the line 125 is coupled to the nozzle instead of the hose 137, or the line 125 may be coupled to both the nozzle and the hose 137.

[0087] Referring now to FIG. 13, a plan view illustration of the vessel 134 after buoy 126 capture is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. As shown, the hose 137 extends up through the access hole 146. The end of the hose 137 below the deck 145 may be fluidically coupled to a tank (not visible) for storing gasses or fluids. While the storage tank is illustrated as being below the deck 145, other embodiments may include the storage tank being above the deck 145. Referring now to FIG. 14, a cross-sectional view of the process after the vessel 134 releases the line 125 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. Since there is no longer a force opposing the weight 133, the weight 133 descends (as indicated by the arrow) which results in the line 125 being retracted. Additionally, since the hose 137 is coupled to the line 125, the hose 137 is pulled into the receiving portion 129 of the housing 128. The frustoconical or flared shaped of the receiving portion 129 orients the nozzle 148 and directs the nozzle 148 to a port at the second opening 142. The force from the weight 133 may also result in the nozzle 148 engaging with the port in order to provide a fluidic coupling between the WEC 120 and the vessel 134.

[0088] Referring now to FIG. 15, a plan view of the connection vessel 134 after the line 125 is retracted is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. As shown, the hose 137 is pulled out from the access hole 146, and the nozzle 148 (not visible) is brought into the water 121 and coupled with the port of the receiving portion of the retractable offtake system.

[0089] After transfer of fluids and / or gasses between the WEC 120 and the vessel 134, the hose 137 may be released from the line 125. The released line 125 can then be retracted by the vessel 134. In other embodiments, the line 125 and the hose 137 may be retracted by the vessel 134. Once the hose 137 is back to the vessel 134, the coupling element 147 between the hose 137 and the line 125 can be disengaged, which allows the weight 133 to retract the line 125 back into the housing 128. This may leave the buoy 126 coupled to the second end of the line 125 floating back at the surface of the body of water 121 proximate to the WEC 120. The process in FIGs. 8- 15 can then be repeated as needed in order to offload energy products from the WEC 120 and / or supply the WEC 120 with precursors or the like.

[0090] Stated more generally, the process of fluidically coupling a WEC 120 to a vessel 134 may include operations comprising one or more of: 1) retrieving a weighted line with a vessel; 2) extracting the weighted line from the housing; 3) coupling a nozzle and / or hose to the weighted line; 4) releasing the weighted line so that the weighted line retracts back into the housing and passively aligns and engages the nozzle with a port.

[0091] Referring now to FIGs.16- 19, cross-sectional views and corresponding side views of a portion of a retractable offtake system 150 that depict the coupling between a nozzle 156 and a port 152 are shown, in accordance with various embodiments. In FIG. 16, the nozzle 156 is being brought into the receiving portion 151 of the retractable offtake housing and being directed to the port 152. In FIG. 17, the nozzle 156 is inserted into the port 152 to allow for fluidic coupling.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 16, the nozzle 156 is coupled to a hose 137. The end of the hose 137 opposite from the nozzle 156 may be connected to a chamber or tank on a vessel (not shown). The nozzle 156 is shown generically in FIG. 16 with a diameter smaller than that of the hose 137. Though, the nozzle 156 may include any suitable configuration to aid in coupling with the port 152. The nozzle 156 may also include any coupling configuration with the hose 137.

[0093] In an embodiment, the hose 137 is mechanically coupled to the line 125 by a coupling element 157. The coupling element 157 may be any coupling architecture, such as a press fitting, a hook, a tie, a shackle, a clamp, an adhesive, and / or the like. The line 125 may be retracted into the retractable offtake system 150 by a weight (not shown) on the opposite end of the line 125 from the coupling element 157. The line 125 may pass through an opening 155 in the receiving portion 151. As the line 125 is pulled down through the opening 155 (e.g., into a housing similar to housing 128 described in greater detail above) the nozzle 156 is directed further into the receiving portion 151 until the nozzle engages with the port 152.

[0094] The receiving portion 151 may have a frustoconical or flared shape with a wide opening that narrows toward the port 152. The frustoconical shape allows for a larger misalignment between the nozzle 156 and the port 152 to be accommodated as the nozzle 156 approaches the port 152. The sloped walls of the receiving portion 151 improve alignment between the nozzle 156 and the port 152 as the nozzle 156 continues the approach to the port 152. Upon reaching the port 152, the nozzle 156 may be sufficiently aligned to allow for proper engagement between the port 152 and the nozzle 156. Further, this alignment may be considered as being a “passive” alignment since there is no need for manual control, computer aided control, or the like in order to couple the nozzle 156 and the port 152. Accordingly, the difficulties in fluidically coupling a pair of adjacent floating structures on a wave filled body of water are overcome with minimal resources and / or energy expended.

[0095] The port 152 may be closed by a seal 154. The seal 154 may include any suitable structure that prevents gas (or other fluids) from entering and / or exiting the port 152 until the port 152 is engaged by the nozzle 156. For example, the seal 154 may include a door, a connector fitting (e.g., quick-connect connector or press-fit connector), or the like. The port 152 may provide a path to a pipe 153. The pipe 153 may be fluidically coupled to a chamber comprising a gas or other fluid. For example, the pipe 153 may be coupled to a chamber for storing hydrogen gas. Referring now to FIG. 17, a side view of the retractable offtake system 150 looking into the receiving portion 151 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. In an embodiment, the receiving portion 151 may be frustoconical with a seal 154 at the bottom of the receiving portion 151. The seal 154 may be circular, though, other shapes may also be used. In an embodiment, an opening 155 may also be provided along the interior surface of the receiving portion 151. The opening 155 may be a location where a line 125 passes into and out of the retractable offtake system 150. As described above, the line 125 may be coupled to a hose (not visible in FIG. 17), and pulling in the line 125 results in the hose being pulled into the receiving portion 151 as well. Referring now to Figure 18, the line 125 has pulled the nozzle 156 deep enough into the receiving portion 151 in order to engage the port 152. The nozzle 156 may be used to open the seal 154. In some embodiments, the weight coupled to the line 125 provides enough force to the hose 137 and nozzle 156 in order to bypass the seal 154. At this point, the pipe 153 is fluidically coupled to the hose 137, and fluids and / or gasses can be exchanged between the WEC (not shown) coupled to the pipe 153 and the vessel (not shown) coupled to the hose 137.

[0096] Referring now to Figure 19, a side view of the receiving portion 151 of the retractable offtake system 150 after the hose 137 has been inserted is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. As shown, the hose 137 is guided into the center of the receiving portion 151 by the sloping interior surfaces of the receiving portion 151. The nozzle 156 (which is blocked from view by the hose 137) engages the port 152 and bypasses the seal 154. Also, a coupling element 157 couples the hose 137 to the line 125. As shown, the line 125 passes through the opening 155.

[0097] Referring now to FIG.20 and FIG. 21, cross-sectional views of a portion of a retractable offtake system 160 that depicts the coupling between a nozzle 166 and a port 162 are shown, in accordance with various embodiments. In FIG. 20, the nozzle 166 is being brought into the receiving portion 161 of the retractable offtake housing and being directed to the port 162. In FIG. 21, the nozzle 166 is inserted into the port 162 to allow for fluidic coupling. As shown in FIG. 20, the nozzle 166 is coupled to a hose 137. The end of the hose 137 opposite from the nozzle 166 may be connected to a chamber or tank on a vessel (not shown). The nozzle 166 may have a diameter smaller than that of the hose 137. Though, the nozzle 156 may include any suitable configuration to aid in coupling with the port 152. The nozzle 156 may also include any coupling configuration with the hose 137. In an embodiment, a sheath or collar 168 may cover a portion of the nozzle 156. Upon engagement with the port 162, the collar 168 may be pushed back in order to allow for exposure of the full nozzle 166 to enable the flow of fluids or gasses. In an embodiment, a spring 169 may be coupled to collar 168. The spring 169 may extend out past a tip of the nozzle 166.

[0098] In an embodiment, the hose 137 is mechanically coupled to the line 125 by a coupling element 167. The coupling element 167 may be any coupling architecture, such as a press fitting, a hook, a tie, a shackle, a clamp, an adhesive, and / or the like. The line 125 may be retracted into the retractable offtake system 160 by a weight (not shown) on the opposite end of the line 125 from the coupling element 167. The line 125 may pass through an opening 165 in the receiving portion 161. As the line 125 is pulled down through the opening 165 (e.g., into a housing similar to housing 128 described in greater detail above) the nozzle 166 is directed further into the receiving portion 161 until the nozzle engages with the port 162.

[0099] The receiving portion 161 may have a frustoconical or flared shape with a wide opening that narrows toward the port 162. The frustoconical shape allows for a larger misalignment between the nozzle 166 and the port 162 to be accommodated as the nozzle 166 approaches the port 162. The sloped walls of the receiving portion 161 improve alignment between the nozzle 156 and the port 152 as the nozzle 156 continues the approach to the port 152. This allows for a passive alignment and minimizes the difficulties in fluidically coupling a pair of adjacent floating structures on wave filled body of water.

[0100] The receiving portion 161 may include a ring 158 that is configured to engage the spring 169 of the nozzle 166 before the nozzle 166 reaches the port 162. The ring 158 may have a central opening sized to fit the nozzle 166. While shown without a seal, any suitable sealing mechanism may be used to close either the ring 158 and / or the port 162. Such a seal may be similar to the seal described above with respect to seal 154 in FIGs. 16 and 18.

[0101] Referring now to Figure 21, the line 125 has pulled the nozzle 166 deep enough into the receiving portion 161 in order to engage the spring 169 against the ring 158. The compression of the spring 169 pushes back the collar 168 and exposes more of the nozzle 166. The nozzle 166 may now be inserted and fluidically coupled with the port 162 and the attached pipe 163. In some embodiments, the weight coupled to the line 125 provides enough force to the hose 137 and nozzle 166 in order to compress the spring 169 and enable the fluidic coupling. At this point, the pipe 163 is fluidically coupled to the hose 137, and fluids and / or gasses can be exchanged between the WEC (not shown) coupled to the pipe 163 and the vessel (not shown) coupled to the hose 137.

[0102] In the embodiments described in greater detail above, certain fluidic coupling mechanisms are described in conjunction with the frustoconical receiving portion of the retractable offtake system. However, it is to be appreciated that any suitable coupling solution between a port hole and a nozzle can be used in accordance with embodiments described herein. In a particular embodiment, a double check valve quick release coupling can be used. For example, the nozzle may comprise the plug half of the coupling, and the port seal may comprise the socket half of the coupling. When the plug and socket are disengaged, both are sealed. When the plug engages with the socket, fluids and / or gasses can flow across the coupling. While a double check valve may be beneficial in some embodiments, a single check quick release coupling may be used in other embodiments.

[0103] Referring now to Figure 22, a cross-sectional view of an assembly 170 is shown in accordance with an additional embodiment. The assembly 170 may be the combination of a hose 137 and a nozzle 176. The nozzle 176 may be similar to the nozzle 166 in FIG. 20. For example, the nozzle 176 may comprise a collar 178 and a spring 179. The hose 137 may be coupled to a line 125 of a retractable offtake system similar to those described in greater detail herein. The hose 137 may be coupled to a line 125 by a coupling element 177. In addition to passive engagement with the retractable offtake system through the use of the weighted line 125, some embodiments may include one or more thrusters 174 or the like. Thrusters 174 may be provided on the nozzle 176 or collar 178 (i.e., thrusters 174A), thrusters 174 may be provided on the hose 137 (i.e., thrusters 174B), or thrusters 174 may be provided on both the nozzle / collar and the hose 137. While propeller based thrusters 174 are shown in FIG. 16, any solution for actively displacing the hose 137 and / or nozzle 176 in the body of water may be used.

[0104] In some embodiments, the thrusters 174 may provide additional energy to reduce the duration of the connection process. For example, the retractable offtake system may still enable the proper alignment between the systems, and the thrusters 174 enable the hose to travel through the water faster. In other embodiments, the thrusters 174 may be paired with one or more directional devices (e.g., rudders, etc.) that can also aid in steering and / or aligning the assembly 170.

[0105] In the embodiments described throughout, fluidic coupling between a WEC and a vessel is described in order to offload energy products and / or supply precursors or fuel. However, passive alignment and retraction processes may also benefit other coupling solutions. For example, data connections, electrical connections, and the like may also be beneficial between two bodies floating on a body of water. Referring now to FIG. 23, a cross-sectional view of an alternative coupling apparatus 180 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. As shown, the coupling apparatus 180 includes a receiving portion 181 that is frustoconical or flared. The cable 183 is pulled into the receiving portion 181 by a line 125 that passes through an opening 185 in the receiving portion 181. The line 125 may be coupled to the cable 183 by a coupling element 187. The line 125 is weighted, similar to other embodiments described herein. In an embodiment, the cable 183 is brought into contact with a surface 182 at a base of the receiving portion 181.

[0106] In one embodiment, the cable 183 is an electrical cable. For example, a copper trace 184 or the like may pass along the cable 183 in order to deliver electricity, an electrical signal, or the like, to a first inductive coupling feature 186 (e.g., a coil). A second inductive coupling feature 188 (e.g., a coil) may be provided on and / or in the surface 182. The first inductive coupling feature 186 may be inductively coupled with the second inductive coupling feature 188 in order to pass signals, data, and / or power between trace 184 and trace 189.

[0107] While inductive coupling is provided as one solution for transferring power, data, signals, etc. between a WEC coupled to the surface 182 and a vessel coupled to the cable 183, other coupling solutions may also benefit from a passively aligned retractable connection system, such as those described in greater detail herein. For example, structures to enable capacitive coupling, optical coupling (e.g., fiber optic cables (with or without additional lenses)), radio coupling, or the like may also be used in accordance with embodiments described herein.

[0108] Embodiments disclosed herein may also include many different retractable offtake configurations. Generally, the retractable line includes an end that is pulled (either up or down) by a force. For example, a weight (similar to embodiments described above) can pull the line down in order to retract the line after coupling with a hose. In other embodiments, the end of the line may be coupled to a second buoy that pulls the line towards the surface of the body of water. The retraction of the line may also be aided through the inclusion of a simple machine, such as a pulley. Different retractable offtake configurations coupled to a WEC are shown in FIGs. 18 - 22.

[0109] Referring now to Figure 24, a cross-sectional view of a WEC 200 floating on a body of water 201 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 200 may comprise a buoyant chamber 202 and a tube 204, similar to any of the buoyant chambers or tubes described in greater detail herein. In an embodiment, a housing 208 of the retractable offtake system is coupled to the tube 204. The housing 208 may be similar to any of the other housings described in greater detail herein, with the exception of the bottom of the housing 208. Instead of having a closed bottom, an opening 211 is provided at a bottom of the housing 208. The opening 211 allows for the weight 213 (and line 205) to be retracted to a depth below a bottom of the tube 204. This may allow for a longer line 205, which enables a greater range for the retractable offtake system. Similar to other embodiments, the receiving portion 209 may be flared or frustoconical to enable passive alignment. The receiving portion 209 may include any suitable port configuration to enable coupling with a nozzle, similar to any of the embodiments described in greater detail herein. The end of the line 205 opposite from the weight 213 may be coupled to a buoy 206 to allow for easy capture by a vessel (not shown). As shown, the line 205 may pass through a first opening 214 in the receiving portion 209. A second opening 215 may be configured for coupling with a nozzle (not shown) that is coupled to a hose and an external vessel for fluid transfer operations. The second opening 215 may be fluidically coupled to a chamber 216 that is in turn fluidically coupled to a tank or chamber on the WEC 200 for storing fluids and / or gasses.

[0110] Referring now to FIG. 25, a cross-sectional view of a WEC 220 floating on a body of water 221 with an alternative retractable offtake system is shown, in accordance with an additional embodiment. In an embodiment, the WEC 220 includes a buoyant chamber 222 and a tube 224 similar to other WECs described in greater detail herein. A housing 228 of the retractable offtake system may be coupled to the tube 224. The housing 228 may include a receiving portion 229 to enable passive self-alignment. Similar to the embodiment described in FIG. 24, the housing 228 may include an opening 231 at a bottom of the housing 228. However, instead of dropping the end of the line 225 out the bottom opening 231, a pulley 232 is provided at the bottom of the housing 228. The pulley 232 may be weighed down by a weight 233 in some embodiments. The end of the line 225 may be fixed to a surface 237 within the housing 228. In such an embodiment, the pulley 232 may traverse up and down within the housing 228 as the line 225 is extracted and retracted. While an opening 231 is shown, other embodiments may include a similar pulley configuration with a housing 228 that is closed at the bottom. In an embodiment, the line 225 may be coupled to a buoy 226 to allow for capture by a vessel (not shown). As shown, the line 225 may pass through a first opening 234 in the receiving portion 229. A second opening 235 may be configured for coupling with a nozzle (not shown) that is coupled to a hose and an external vessel for fluid transfer operations. The second opening 235 may be fluidically coupled to a chamber 236 that is in turn fluidically coupled to a tank or chamber on the WEC 220 for storing fluids and / or gasses.

[0111] Referring now to FIG. 26, a cross-sectional view of a WEC 240 on a body of water 241 with an alternative retractable offtake system is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. In an embodiment, the WEC 240 may be similar to any WEC described in greater detail herein. For example, the WEC 240 may comprise a buoyant chamber 242 and a tube 244. A housing 248 may be coupled to the tube 244. In an embodiment, the housing 248 may include a receiving portion 249 for passively aligning fluidic coupling structures. The receiving portion 249 may be similar to any receiving portion described in greater detail herein. In an embodiment, the housing 248 may also comprise a top opening 258. A first end of the line 245 may be coupled to a buoy 259. Line 245 may pass through the top opening 258. In some embodiments, the top opening 258 is sized to allow the buoy 259 to be inserted and pulled through the housing 248. Upon release of the extracted line 245, the buoyant force of the buoy 259 retracts the line 245 back into the housing 248. In an embodiment, the line 245 passes down and around an internal divider 257 with a pulley 252 fixed to a bottom of the internal divider 257. The opposite end of the line 245 is coupled to a buoy 246 that floats at the surface of the body of water 241 for easy capture by a vessel (not shown). As shown, the line 245 may pass through a first opening 254 in the receiving portion 249. A second opening 255 may be configured for coupling with a nozzle (not shown) that is coupled to a hose and an external vessel for fluid transfer operations. The second opening 255 may be fluidically coupled to a chamber 256 that is in turn fluidically coupled to a tank or chamber on the WEC 240 for storing fluids and / or gasses.

[0112] Referring now to FIG. 27, a cross-sectional view of a WEC 260 on a body of water 261 that includes a different retractable offtake system is shown, in accordance with an additional embodiment. The WEC 260 may include a buoyant chamber 262 that is coupled to a tube 264, similar to any of the WECs described in greater detail herein. In an embodiment, the housing 268 of the retractable offtake system is coupled to the tube 264.The housing 268 may include a spring loaded reel 277 or the like for storing a portion of the line 265. The spring loaded reel 277 may have a stopper to prevent the entire line 265 from being retracted. The remainder of the line 265 may extend out the first opening 274 of the receiving portion 269, with an end of the line 265 being coupled to a buoy 266. In an embodiment, a second opening 275 may be configured for coupling with a nozzle (not shown) that is coupled to a hose and an external vessel for fluid transfer operations. The second opening 275 may be fluidically coupled to a chamber 276 that is in turn fluidically coupled to a tank or chamber on the WEC 260 for storing fluids and / or gasses. Referring now to FIG. 28, a cross-sectional view of a WEC 280 on a body of water 281 is shown, in accordance with an additional embodiment. The WEC 280 may be similar to any of the WECs described in greater detail herein. For example, the WEC 280 may include a buoyant chamber 282 and a tube 284. A retractable offtake system may be coupled to the tube 284. However, instead of a vessel at the surface of the body of water 281, a vessel 295 for retrieving the line 285 is provided below the surface of the body of water 281. For example, the vessel 295 may be a submersible vehicle in some embodiments. Accordingly, the housing 288 of the retractable offtake system may be oriented so that the receiving portion 289 is accessible from below the surface of the body of water 281. In some embodiments, the line 285 may be coupled to a buoy 291 that is provided within the housing 288. The opposite end of the line 285 may be weighted (e.g., by a weight 299) so that it extends down out of the receiving portion 289. In an embodiment, the vessel 295 may include an implement 296 for retrieving the line 285. The implement 296 may have a grabber 297 or other means to secure the line 285. The implement 296 may bring the line 285 towards the vessel 295, so that a hose (not visible) can be coupled to the line 285. Upon release by the vessel 295, the buoy 291 floats back towards a top of the housing 288 so that the line 285 is retracted back into the housing 288. As shown, the line 285 may pass through a first opening 292 in the receiving portion 289. A second opening 293 may be configured for coupling with a nozzle (not shown) that is coupled to a hose and the vessel 295 for fluid transfer operations. The second opening 293 may be fluidically coupled to a chamber 294 that is in turn fluidically coupled to a tank or chamber on the WEC 280 for storing fluids and / or gasses.

[0113] Referring now to FIG. 29, a side perspective view of a WEC 300 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 300 may be similar to the WEC 100 in FIG. 1, with the exception of the structure of the housing 308. For example, the WEC 300 may include a buoyant chamber 302 that is coupled to a tube 304. The buoyant chamber 302 may float at a surface of a body of water 301. In an embodiment, the housing 308 may extend up along an outer surface 306 of the buoyant chamber 302. That is, the housing 308 may be curved to conform to a portion of the buoyant chamber 302. In some embodiments, the receiving portion 309 may be provided above the surface of the body of water 301. The chamber 303 for storing the energy product (e.g., hydrogen gas) may have a pipe (not shown) that is fluidically coupled to the receiving portion 309 similar to any of the other embodiments described in greater detail herein. The retractable offtake system included in FIG. 29 may be similar to any of the embodiments described in greater detail herein. For example, the line (not shown) within the housing 308 may be coupled to a weight, a buoy, and / or a pulley in order to enable passive retraction of the line and passive self-alignment of fluidic coupling components.

[0114] Referring now to FIG. 30, a side perspective view of a WEC 320 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 320 may be similar to the WEC 300 in FIG. 23, with the exception of the structure of the housing 328. For example, the WEC 320 may include a buoyant chamber 322 that is coupled to a tube 324. The buoyant chamber 322 may float at a surface of a body of water 321. In an embodiment, the housing 328 may extend up along an outer surface 326 of the buoyant chamber 322. That is, the housing 328 may be curved to conform to a portion of the buoyant chamber 322. In some embodiments, the receiving portion 309 may be provided at (or around) a top surface of the buoyant chamber 322. The chamber 323 for storing the energy product (e.g., hydrogen gas) may have a pipe (not shown) that is fluidically coupled to the receiving portion 329 similar to any of the other embodiments described in greater detail herein. The retractable offtake system included in FIG. 30 may be similar to any of the embodiments described in greater detail herein. For example, the line (not shown) within the housing 328 may be coupled to weight, a buoy, and / or a pulley in order to enable passive retraction of the line and passive self-alignment of fluidic coupling components.

[0115] Referring now to FIG. 31 , a view of a WEC 340 that utilizes a vertical retrieval process for the retractable offtake system is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 340 may include a buoyant chamber 342 with an attached tube 344, similar to any of the WECs described in greater detail herein. In an embodiment, the retractable offtake system includes a housing that extends up to the top of the buoyant chamber 342. A line 347 extends up through the receiving portion 329. A knob 345 may be provided at the end of the line 347. The opposite end of the line 347 may be contained within the housing 348 and coupled to a weight or the like.

[0116] In an embodiment, a vessel 350 may pass over the WEC 340. For example, the vessel 350 may be a catamaran type vessel with pontoons 351 or the like that raise a deck of the vessel 350 out of the body of water 341. In an embodiment, a capture implement 352 is provided under the deck of the vessel 350 and is used to capture the line 347. The vessel 350 may then retrieve the line 347, couple a hose (with nozzle) to the line 347, and release the line 347. The passive retractable offtake system retracts the line 347 and passively aligns the nozzle with fluidic coupling components within the receiving portion 349. The fluidic coupling process between the vessel 350 and the WEC 340 may be similar to any of the other fluidic coupling processes described in greater detail herein.

[0117] It is to be appreciated that the benefits provided by the inclusion of a retractable offtake system with a WEC can lead to more efficient energy product retrieval and / or transport of other fluids and / or gasses. That is, the fluidic coupling between a WEC and a second vessel is made more efficient, more consistent, and / or more predictable. Accordingly, energy products generated by the WEC can be more easily and / or cost-effectively transported to locations where the energy product is stored and / or consumed. As used herein, energy products may include, but are not limited to, fuels (e.g., hydrogen and / or carbon containing fuels), chemicals (e.g., HC1), biological species, digital goods and / or services, and the like. Since the WEC may be located at sea, the energy products may be transported back to land for consumption, use, storage, or the like. Examples of energy product generation at the WEC and transport schemes or processes are described with respect to FIGs. 32 - 45.

[0118] FIG. 32 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a WEC 360 with a retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 360 floats adjacent to an upper surface 361 of a body of water over which waves pass. The WEC 360 may include a buoyant chamber 362 with an interior volume 389. The interior volume 389 may be partially filled with water 387. Gasses (e.g., oxygen, hydrogen, air, or the like) may fill additional portions of the interior volume 389. Internal structures may also be provided within the buoyant chamber 362. For example, baffles, walls, sub-chambers, doors, or the like may be provided within the chamber 362. The internal structures may be used to control flow or movement of water 387 within the chamber 362, provide housing for different gas species, or the like.

[0119] The chamber 362 may be axially symmetric in some instances. For example, in FIG. 26, the chamber 362 is a spherical segment with a substantially horizontal top surface. In other instances, the chamber 362 may be a spherical cap, or any other type of axially symmetric shape. Though, the chamber 362 may be non-axially symmetric in other instances. For example, the chamber 362 may have a keel or hull shape similar to that of a floating vessel (e.g., a boat or ship). Openings, ports, or the like may also be provided through the walls of the chamber 362 in order to access materials and / or substances within the chamber 362, to provide control of pressure within the chamber 362, and / or the like.

[0120] A tube 364 may be coupled to the chamber 362. The tube 364 may have an open bottom that is in fluid communication with the water 361 surrounding the WEC 360. The tube 364 may pass through a wall of the chamber 362 and pass into the interior volume 389. An opening at the top of the tube 364 is fluidically coupled to the interior of the chamber 362. The tube 364 may have a constant diameter through its length. In other instances, the tube 364 may have a non-uniform diameter through its length. For example, the tube 364 may have a first portion 364 A with a constant diameter and a second constricted portion 364B where the diameter is reduced. The tube 364 may be cylindrical or have any other shaped cross-section.

[0121] As shown, water 381 may reside in the tube 364 with a free surface 383. As indicated by the double arrow 384 across the free surface 383, the level of the oscillates up and down in response to oscillation of the WEC 360. Oscillation is driven by interaction with waves that pass along the surface 361 of the body of water. The confined water 381 within the tube 364 may acquire momentum during oscillation of the WEC 360. At some points in time, the free surface 383 rises above the top opening of the tube 364 and is expelled (as indicated by arrows 386) into the interior volume 389 of the chamber 362. The water from the tube 364 maintains a level 388 of water 387 within the chamber 362.

[0122] In order to generate energy, water 387 from the interior of the chamber 362 is expelled out a pipe. As water 387 passes through the pipe, an energy generation device 390 is engaged. The energy generation device 390 may comprise a hydropower turbine, such as a reaction turbine (e.g., a propeller turbine, a bulb turbine, a straflo turbine, a tube turbine, a Kaplan turbine, a Francis turbine, or a kinetic turbine) or an impulse turbine (e.g., a Pelton turbine, or a cross-flow turbine). In some instances, a single turbine is used for the energy generation device 390, and in other instances, multiple turbines arranged in series are used for the energy generation device 390. While a single energy generation device 390 is shown in the WEC 360, embodiments may include a plurality of energy generation devices 390.

[0123] The energy generation device 390 may be coupled to an electrical generator (not shown). The energy generation device provides rotational energy which is converted into electrical energy by the electrical generator. The electrical energy may be stored (e.g., in a battery) or consumed for one or more purposes, which will be described in greater detail herein. While an electrical generator is one option, other generator types may also be used. For example, generators described herein may include any generator, alternator, other mechanism, device, and / or component that converts energy from one form into another. In some instances, one or more of the energy generation systems may be replaced with a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generator, which generates electricity directly from a flow of liquid without the need for connection with a turbine and associated rotating shaft. That is, a combination of a turbine connected to a generator by a shaft can be replaced, in some instances and with an appropriate choice of working fluid, with a MHD generator.

[0124] As noted above, WEC 360 may generate significant amounts of energy that needs to be stored or used in a constructive manner. In some instances, energy generated from WEC 360 may be stored in a battery. The battery may provide an accessible energy source in order to run one or more electrical components integrated into the WEC 360. Alternatively (or in addition), WEC 360 may provide a material conversion process in order to “store” energy in a more transportable form. For example, energy generated by WEC 360 can be stored in the form of an energy product, such as those described in greater detail herein.

[0125] In the case of the energy product being hydrogen gas, an electrolyzer 393 may be provided on the WEC 360. The electrolyzer 393 may be fluidly coupled to a water source, such as water 392 within a chamber 363. Water 392 may be deionized, filtered, and / or otherwise purified. Water 392 may be provided to the WEC 360 as a precursor material. Energy generated by the WEC 360 may be consumed by the electrolyzer 393 to convert water into oxygen and hydrogen. The hydrogen and oxygen gas may be stored in the internal volume 394 of the chamber 363, or any other confined space associated with the WEC 360. After hydrogen gas is produced, the gas may be collected (i.e., removed or offloaded from the WEC 360) periodically be an external vessel, ship, air-ship, submersible, drone, or any other vehicle.

[0126] The external vessel may be fluidically coupled to the WEC 360 through the use of a retractable offtake system. The retractable offtake system may be similar to any of the retractable offtake systems described in greater detail herein. For example, the retractable offtake system may comprise a housing 368 with a receiving portion 369. A line 365 with a first end coupled to a weight 373 and a second end coupled to a buoy 66 is provided at least partially within the housing 368. For example, the line 365 may pass through a first opening 374 in a receiving portion 369 of the retractable offtake system. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 32, an opening 371 at the bottom of the housing 368 allows for the weight 373 to drop below the WEC 360. Similar to embodiments described in greater detail herein, the vessel may capture the buoy 366, extract the line 365, couple a hose to the line 365, and release the line 365. The weight 373 (or any other suitable mechanism described herein) causes the line 365 to be retracted back into the housing 368 through a first opening 374. The receiving portion 369 aligns the hose from the vessel with fluidic coupling components of the retractable offtake in order to engage a fluidic coupling connection. For example, the second opening 375 may engage a nozzle from an external vessel. The nozzle may be fluidically coupled with a chamber 376, which may be fluidically coupled to chamber 363 (by a pipe out of the cross section of FIG. 32). Energy products from the WEC 360 can then be transferred to the vessel and / or precursors, fuels, or the like can be transferred from the vessel to the WEC 360.

[0127] WEC 360 may be an autonomous device with the ability to move and / or navigate in a controlled manner about the body of water. Propulsion of the WEC 360 may be driven through one or more different mechanisms. In one instance, the expelled water 391 out of the pipe provides a propulsive force that can move the WEC 360. The WEC 360 can be steered through control of the force of the expelled water 391 and / or the direction of the expelled water 391. In some instances, one or more rudders (not shown) can be coupled to the WEC 360 in order to provide directional control, rotational control, and / or the like.

[0128] In some embodiments, propulsion of the WEC 360 may be provided through one or more active propulsion devices. For example, propellers or the like may be used in some instances. Energy to drive the active propulsion devices may be obtained through the energy generation of the WEC 360, or from batteries that were charged through the wave-energy generation of the WEC. In other instances, hydrogen or other gasses generated on the WEC 360 can be consumed (e.g., through the use of a fuel cell) in order to power active propulsion devices.

[0129] The WEC 360 may include an enclosure 395 that is provided on the chamber 362. The enclosure 395 may be a water proof chamber for securing one or more electrical components. For example, a computing system, a positioning system, and / or a communications system may be provided in the enclosure 395. The computing system may provide one or more processors and associated hardware and / or software that enables control of the WEC 360. For example, the computing system may control power generation, such as by controlling flow rates of water to the energy generation device 390. The positioning system may include a GPS, a compass, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or any other suitable navigational system. The positioning system may control propulsion and steering systems in order to navigate the WEC 360. The communications system may include an antenna, a receiver, and associated circuitry, hardware, and / or software. The communications system may provide a communication link to external systems, other waver- energy generation systems, or the like. The systems described in the enclosure 395 on the WEC 360 are exemplary in nature, and it is to be appreciated that many different systems, control apparatuses, and / or the like may be provided in the enclosure 395.

[0130] As will be described in greater detail below, the energy products produced by the WEC may be subsequently delivered to shore (or near shore) for use, storage, or the like. The energy product may be transported to shore through one or more vessels. In some instances, the energy product is transported to shore without further modification. For example, a hydrogen gas may be generated by the WEC, and the hydrogen gas is transported to shore. In other instances, the energy product may be used to generate a different energy product. For example, the energy product may be a precursor that is used in the generation of an alternative energy product (e.g., an energy product that has a higher energy density). In one example, a hydrogen energy product may be converted into methanol or ammonia through a chemical reaction with one or more other precursor gasses. This additional conversion may occur at the WEC or during transport of the energy product to shore.

[0131] FIG. 33 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the WEC 400 with a retractable offtake system, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 400 may be similar to the WEC 360 described above, with the exception of the energy product that is being generated or produced by the WEC 400. For example, WEC 400 may include a buoyant chamber 402 coupled to an injection tube 404A / 404B. Water 421 within the tube 404 oscillates so that the surface 423 raises and lowers within the tube 404. In some instances water 421 may flow out 426 of the tube 404 into the interior 429 of the chamber 402 in order to fill water 427 in the chamber 402. Water 427 in the chamber 402 can be expelled through energy generation device 430 and exit 431 the WEC 400 in order to generate energy.

[0132] However, instead of producing a gas as an energy product (or only gas), the WEC 400 may produce a biological product. The biological product may comprise one or more of marine algae (e.g., micro-alae and / or macro-algae), seaweed, other marine plants, fish, krill, or other marine organisms. More specifically, electrical power generated through the operation of an energy generation device 430 can be used to power lights 442, lamps, thermal devices (e.g., heaters), and / or the like. For example, lights 442 may be light emitting diode (LED) lights or any other suitable source for generating electromagnetic radiation 443. The electromagnetic radiation 443 can be consumed by the biological product within the WEC 400 in order to induce growth of the biological product.

[0133] As shown in FIG. 33, the lights 442 may be arranged, attached, or otherwise coupled to interior surfaces of the chamber 402. Additionally, lights 442 may be provided along sidewalls of the injection tube 404. While shown as being coupled directly to interior wall surfaces, other embodiments may comprise suspending lights 442 within an interior volume of the chamber 402. The lights 442 in FIG. 33 are all shown as being submerged in water 427 or 421 . Though, in other embodiments, lights 442 may be provided above the surface 428 of the water 427 within the chamber 402.

[0134] In one instance, designed to promote the growth of biological products (e.g., algae and / or other marine based plant life), an approximately circular net 441 spans, and / or is adjacent to, an approximately flow-normal and / or horizontal cross-section of the water reservoir 427, adjacent to the surface 428 of the water 427. Net 441 entrains the biological product within the lower portion of the water 427 thereby tending to reduce, if not prevent, the outflow and / or loss of that macroalgae through the energy generation device 430. In other embodiments, other structures (e.g. a sieve, catchment, mesh, or grating) are positioned in the path of water flow to the energy generation device 430 in order to prevent outflow or loss of biological products.

[0135] Periodically, biological products may be removed from the water 427 by a ship, platform, or other vessel. A ship may insert a suction tube into and through an access tube 445. Once inserted into and through access tube 445, an inserted suction tube can be positioned near the bottom of the embodiment's reservoir of water 427 and suck out a portion of the biological product therein. A complementary access tube (not shown), and / or a complementary channel within a single access suction tube 445, can return water to the reservoir while biological products, are being removed from the reservoir of water 427, thereby maintaining and / or preserving the original level 428 of the water 427 in the reservoir.

[0136] The access tube 445 allows algae, water, nutrients, and / or other materials, to be added to, and / or withdrawn from, the reservoir of water 427 when that reservoir is otherwise sealed inside the chamber 402. Because the access tube is open to the atmosphere (as indicated by arrow 448) at its upper mouth 447, and open to the water and biological product in the water 427 at its lower mouth 444, water 427 from the reservoir is free to rise up within the algae access tube 445. Because of the pressure of the air trapped within the air pocket 429 of the interior of the chamber 402, and the corresponding pressure of the water 427, the surface 446 of the water within the access tube 445 tends to rise to a height above the surface 428 of the water 427 within the reservoir whose head pressure approximately corresponds to the pressure of the air within hollow chamber 402.

[0137] In addition to growing biological products, especially macroalgae, within the water 427 reservoir inside the hollow chamber 402, biological products, especially macroalgae, may be grown inside the embodiment's injection tube 404. An upper barrier net 451 spanning an upper portion, and / or at an upper position, of the injection tube 404 prevents at least a portion of the algae within the injection tube 404 from too closely approaching the upper constricted portion of the injection tube 404 which, if not prevented, could potentially clog the injection tube 404 at that location. Macroalgae or other biological products are grown within a net enclosure and / or containment bag 453 that forms a porous bag entraining most, if not all, of the biological products. An upper end of the algae containment bag 453 is pulled upward by a float 452, tending to position the upper end of the bag proximate to the lower side of the barrier net 451. The biological product within the containment bag 453 are encouraged to grow through the embodiment's provision of light, e.g. 443, emitted by lamps, e.g. 442, positioned along the interior wall and / or surface of the injection tube 404.

[0138] A lower end of the containment bag 453 is pulled downward by a weight 454 connected to the bag by a tether, chain, rope, linkage, and / or cable 455. Also connected to the weight 454, and therethrough to the containment bag 453, is a tether, chain, rope, linkage, and / or cable 456 an upper end of which is connected to a float 457 that tends to float at the surface 401 of the body of water on which the WEC 400 floats.

[0139] Periodically, biological products may be removed from the WEC’s 400 injection tube 404 by a ship or other vessel. A ship may attach a secondary cable to cable 456 and then lower a secondary weight to increase the total weight tending to pull the algae containment bag 453 down and out of the injection tube 404. After the containment bag 453 has been pulled down and become free of the injection tube 404, the containment bag 453 may be pulled up by the secondary cable and therewith lifted onto and / or into the ship where its biological products may be harvested. The same containment bag 453 that was removed may be reinserted into the injection tube 404 using the same second cable, using an underwater autonomous vehicle, and / or using another method, mechanism, and / or system. If the same containment bag 453 is reinserted into the embodiment’s inertial water tube 404, it will tend to be so reinserted after most, but not all, of its entrained biological product has been harvested and / or removed. By leaving a portion of the biological product in the containment bag 453, the residual biological product can grow and give rise to another harvest. If a “new” second containment bag 453 is inserted into the embodiment's injection tube 404 to replace the removed containment bag 453, then it is advantageous to first “seed” that containment bag 453 with biologic stock so that a new crop of a preferred species of algae can be grown.

[0140] The scope of the present disclosure includes a complementary ship to periodically harvest the biological products grown within the embodiment, as well as the facilities on a shore, floating platform, and / or other ship where the harvested algae are processed and / or stored, as well as a method for harvesting biological products wherein: a wave energy converter of a type herein disclosed is deployed on a body of water; electrical energy produced by said wave energy converter operating in waves is used to power LEDs, or other lamps, or other sources of light emissions, that are mounted on, within, inside, or outside, of said wave energy converter, and / or LEDs, or other lamps, or other sources of light emissions, that are suspended from walls, surfaces, and / or structural members, within, inside, or outside, of said wave energy converted; biological products are permitted to grow in an enclosure, cavity, or vicinity of said wave energy converter using light from said lamps as a source of metabolic energy; said biological products (or products or byproducts produced therefrom, e.g. algal oil, fish oil, etc.) is transferred to a ship or other floating vessel; said ship or floating vessel transfers said biological products (or products or byproducts produced therefrom, e.g. algal oil, fish oil, etc.) to a shore facility for processing and / or storage.

[0141] The aquaculture configuration embodiment illustrated in FIG. 27 may also include fish within either or both of the water 427 reservoir and / or the algal containment bag 453. If one or more species of fish that are able to eat and / or consume the type(s) of algae being grown within the embodiment are selected and included within the respective growth areas prior to each growth cycle, then a portion of those fish may be harvested along with whatever algae remains uneaten. The scope of the present disclosure includes a method for harvesting fish wherein: a wave energy converter of a type herein disclosed is deployed on a body of water; electrical energy produced by said wave energy converter is used to power LEDs, or other lamps, or other sources of light emissions, that are mounted on, within, inside, or outside, of said wave energy converter, as well as LEDs, or other lamps, or other sources of light emissions, that are suspended from walls, surfaces, and / or structural members, within, inside, or outside, of said wave energy converter; algae are permitted to grow in an enclosure, cavity, or vicinity of said wave energy converter using light from said lamps as a source of metabolic energy; fish or other marine organisms are permitted to grow in an enclosure, cavity, or vicinity of said wave energy converter, feeding, at least in part, on said algae as a source of metabolic energy; said fish or other marine organisms are transferred to a ship or other floating vessel; said ship or floating vessel transfers said fish and / or other marine organisms (or products or byproducts produced therefrom, e.g. fish meal or fish oil) to a shore facility for processing and / or storage.

[0142] The scope of the present disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the growth and / or harvesting of any and every kind of microalgae, macroalgae, fish, or crustacean. Fish that do not eat the varieties of algae grown may nonetheless receive nutrition, e.g. plankton and phytoplankton, from the water that is regularly introduced to the reservoir of water 427 and injection tube 404 as a result of wave action. In addition to introducing potentially nutrient-rich water from outside the embodiment into the water 427 reservoir and injection tube 404 as a result of wave action, the embodiment also tends to remove waste-containing and / or nutrient-depleted, water from the water 427 reservoir and injection tube 404 as a result of the same water cycle (i.e. water enters tube 404, and therefrom enters the water 427 reservoir , and thereafter flows out of the water reservoir through the energy generation device 430.

[0143] The scope of the present disclosure includes embodiments utilizing water reservoir lamps and / or inertial water tube lamps emitting light of any single wavelength, any range of wavelengths, and / or any combinations of wavelengths or ranges of wavelengths.

[0144] The scope of the present disclosure includes embodiments in which lamps are attached to the inner surface of the upper portion of the hollow chamber 402, i.e. within the air pocket 429. The scope of the present disclosure includes embodiments in which lamps are attached to the outer surfaces of the hollow chamber 402 and / or injection tube 404 thereby encouraging biological product growth, and the establishment of communities of fish or other marine life, outside the WEC 400, but in the vicinity of the WEC 400.

[0145] In addition to the generation of biological energy products, energy products such as hydrogen gas can be produced by an electrolyzer 433 on the WEC 400. The electrolyzer 433 may be fluidly coupled to a water source, such as water 432 within a chamber 403. Water 432 may be deionized, filtered, and / or otherwise purified. Water 432 may be provided to the WEC 400 as a precursor material. Energy generated by the WEC 400 may be consumed by the electrolyzer 433 to convert water into oxygen and hydrogen. The hydrogen and oxygen gas may be stored in the internal volume 434 of the chamber 403, or any other confined space associated with the WEC 400. After hydrogen gas is produced, the gas may be collected (i.e., removed or offloaded from the WEC 400) periodically be an external vessel, ship, air-ship, submersible, drone, or any other vehicle.

[0146] The external vessel may be fluidically coupled to the WEC 400 through the use of a retractable offtake system. The retractable offtake system may be similar to any of the retractable offtake systems described in greater detail herein. For example, the retractable offtake system may comprise a housing 408 with a receiving portion 409. A line 405 with a first end coupled to a weight 413 and a second end coupled to a buoy 406 is provided at least partially within the housing 408. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 33, an opening 411 at the bottom of the housing 408 allows for the weight 413 to drop below the WEC 400. Similar to embodiments described in greater detail herein, the vessel may capture the buoy 406, extract the line 405, couple a hose to the line 405, and release the line 405. The weight 413 (or any other suitable mechanism described herein) causes the line 405 to be retracted back into the housing 408 through a first opening 414. The receiving portion 409 aligns the hose from the vessel with fluidic coupling components of the retractable offtake in order to engage a fluidic coupling connection. For example, the second opening 415 may engage a nozzle from an external vessel. The nozzle is fluidically coupled to a chamber 416, which may be fluidically coupled to chamber 403 (by a pipe out of the cross section of FIG. 33). Energy products from the WEC 400 can then be transferred to the vessel and / or precursors, fuels, or the like can be transferred from the vessel to the WEC 400.

[0147] Referring now to FIG. 34 a perspective side view of a system including a WEC 460 that is fluidically coupled to a vessel 466 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. A WEC 460 obtains, extracts, harvests, receives, and / or collects, energy from waves moving across the surface 465 of a body of water on which the WEC 460 floats. A portion of the energy that the WEC 460 extracts from the passing waves is converted into electrical power by a water turbine (not visible) and generator (not visible). A portion of the generated electrical power is used to generate an energy product (e.g., a liquid fuel, a gas fuel, a biological product, or the like). For example, a water electrolysis apparatus (not visible) inside the WEC 460 may be used for the conversion of a portion of water contained in a reservoir within the WEC 460 (not visible) into hydrogen gas. A portion of the synthesized hydrogen gas is captured within a hydrogen reservoir (not visible) within the WEC 460.

[0148] Periodically, a vessel 466 approaches the WEC 460 and positions itself near to the WEC 460. When sufficiently proximate to the WEC 460, the vessel 466 initiates a fluidic coupling link between the WEC 460 and the vessel 466. The fluidic coupling may be enabled through the use of a retractable offtake system similar to any of the embodiments disclosed in greater detail herein. For example, a line (not shown) that is coupled to a weight on one end and a buoy on the other end is captured by the vessel 466 and pulled into the vessel 466. A hose 464 is coupled to the line, and the line is released. The weight retracts the line and the hose 464 back towards the WEC 460. The hose is passively aligned with a coupling port 463 on the WEC 460 through the use of a housing and frustoconical receiving portion. The hose 464 being coupled to the port 463 enables energy product to be removed, and / or to flow, from the WEC 460 to the vessel 466 where it is then stored within one of more of the storage containers (not shown) of and / or on the vessel 466. In some instances, the transfer of energy product from the WEC 460 to the vessel 466 is passive (e.g., if a pressure differential drives product from the WEC 460 to the vessel 466). In other instances, a pump, winch, or other mechanical force can be used to actively transport energy product from the WEC 460 to the vessel 466. Precursors, fuels, or the like can also be actively or passively transferred from the vessel 466 to the WEC 460.

[0149] The vessel 466 in FIG. 34 is shown as a boat, but it is to be appreciated that any suitable transport vehicle may be used to offload energy product from the WEC 460. For example, a submersible vehicle, an aerial vehicle (e.g., helicopter, plane, dirigible airship, drone, etc.), or the like may also be used to offload energy product from the WEC 460. In an embodiment, the vessel 466 may transport the energy product directly to the shore, or the vessel 466 may be an intermediate transport that delivers the energy product to a second vessel, or a platform within the body of water on which the WEC 460 floats.

[0150] Referring now to FIG. 35, a schematic diagram of a wave energy harvesting system 500 is shown. The wave energy harvesting system 500 may include a first free-floating body 501 and a second free-floating body 580 which may transiently couple to one another while floating on a surface 505 of a body of water 504. In an example embodiment, the first free-floating body 501 may be configured as a wave engine 501 (e.g., a WEC or hydrodynamic pump, such as those described herein) and the second free-floating body 580 may be a storage vessel 580, such as a tanker ship 580. In some embodiments, the wave engine 501 may include a receiving port 520 operable to receive a conduit assembly 541 (as indicated by arrow 524) and is in fluidic communication with a conduit 540 from the storage vessel 580 and thereby fluidly couple the wave engine 501 to the storage vessel 580 via the conduit 540 for transfer of one or more fluids therebetween. While fluidic communication and coupling between the wave engine 501 and the storage vessel 580 is described in greater detail with respect to FIG. 35, it is to be appreciated that non-fluid products may also be transmitted between the wave engine 501 and the storage vessel 580.

[0151] In an embodiment, the fluidic communication (or fluidic coupling) between the wave engine 501 and the storage vessel 580 may be enabled through the use of a retractable offtake system, similar to any of those described in greater detail herein. For example, a line (not shown) that is coupled to a weight on one end and a buoy on the other end is captured by the storage vessel 580 and pulled into the storage vessel 580. The conduit assembly 541 and conduit 540 are coupled to the line, and the line is released. The weight retracts the line and the conduit assembly 541 and conduit 540 back towards the wave engine 501. The conduit assembly 541 is passively aligned with the receiving port 520 on the wave engine 501 through the use of a housing and frustoconical receiving portion (not shown). The receiving port 520 and the conduit assembly 541 may take any one or a combination of the various configurations. In some embodiments, for instance, the conduit assembly 541 may include one or more fluid nozzles (not shown at FIG. 29) operable to emit one or more fluid streams to direct the conduit assembly 541 to the receiving port 520.

[0152] A set of Cartesian coordinate axes 568 is shown in FIG. 35 for contextualizing positions of the various components of the wave energy harvesting system 500. Specifically, x-, y-, and z-axes are provided which are mutually perpendicular to one another, where the x- and z-axes define a plane of the schematic diagram shown in FIG. 35 and the y-axis is perpendicular thereto. In some embodiments, a direction of gravity may be parallel to and coincident with a negative direction of the z-axis.

[0153] Though exemplified herein in the context of wave engines, the first free-floating body 501 may be configured as any free-floating body capable of self-propulsion, e.g., by extracting energy from stored fuel, inducing a flow of pressurized water, and / or harnessing one or more ambient environmental forces, so as to translate along the surface 505 of the body of water 504. For example, the first free-floating body 501 may be a ship 501 (such as a deployment ship, a tanker ship or other storage vessel, or another transport vessel), a buoy 501, a wind turbine 501, an offshore platform 501, such as a data center, etc.

[0154] In embodiments where the first free-floating body 501 is configured as the wave engine 501, water may pass into and through the wave engine 501 with upward and downward motion 506 (e.g., in a positive direction of the z-axis and the negative direction of the z-axis, respectively) of water waves. As described in greater detail herein, the upward and downward motion 506 may induce the water passing into and through the wave engine 501, energy from which may be captured and converted to an energy product 508 (as indicated by a dashed arrow 526a). The energy product 508, for example, may include one or more of an electrolysis product or other fuel, such as H2 gas, HC1, etc., removed carbon, minerals, a biological product, digital goods, or an executed computational algorithm, such as, but not limited to a proof-of-work mechanism for a cryptocurrency, a trained machine learning algorithm, or the like.

[0155] In some embodiments, the first free-floating body 501 may include a first onboard controller or other computing device 510 and / or the second free-floating body 580 may include a second onboard controller or other computing device 529, the first and second onboard controllers 510, 529 each including non-transitory memory on which executable instructions may be stored. The executable instructions may be executed by one or more processors of the first and second onboard controllers 510, 529 to respectively perform various functionalities of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580. Accordingly, the executable instructions may include various routines for operation, propulsion, maintenance, tracking, and testing of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580. The first and second onboard controllers 510, 529 may be communicably coupled to various components (e.g., valves, power supplies, etc.) of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580 to command actuation and use thereof (wired and / or wireless communication paths between the first and second onboard controllers 510, 529 and the various components are omitted from FIG. 35 for clarity). For instance, the first onboard controller 510 may command actuation of one or more first coupling elements annularly distributed on the receiving port 520 and the second onboard controller 529 may command actuation of one or more second coupling elements annularly distributed on the conduit assembly 541 so as to selectively engage and disengage the one or more first coupling elements with one or more second coupling elements (first and second coupling elements not shown at FIG. 35). Though, it is to be appreciated that passive self- alignment may be enabled through the use of a retractable offtake system, such as those described in greater detail herein.

[0156] In certain embodiments, the first and second onboard controllers 510, 529 may be communicably coupled to a remote controller or computing device 514 via a wireless network 512. The various controllers 510, 514, 529 may be configured in a substantially similar manner to one another, excepting, in some examples, one or more modifications or differences for a given use case. For example, the remote controller 514 may be positioned so as to be accessible to an operator of the wave energy harvesting system 500, e.g., on a ship or in a physical structure 516 on land 518 (as illustrated in FIG. 35). As such, even when one or both of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580 are not geographically located within a national or subnational jurisdiction, the one or both of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580 may nevertheless be in continuous (e.g., substantially uninterrupted) or periodic communication with the remote controller 514 which may be geographically located within a national or subnational jurisdiction (e.g., on the land 518).

[0157] In some embodiments, because the remote controller 514 may be configured for use by the operator, the remote controller 514 may include a user interface at which the operator may enter commands or otherwise modify operation of the wave energy harvesting system 500. The user interface may include various components for facilitating operator use of the wave energy harvesting system 500 and for receiving operator inputs (e.g., requests to direct the conduit assembly 541 to the receiving port 520), such as one or more displays, input devices (e.g., keyboards, touchscreens, computer mice, depressible buttons, mechanical switches, other mechanical actuators, etc.), lights, etc. In additional or alternative embodiments, one or both of the first and second onboard controllers 510, 529 may be configured with the user interface as described hereinabove.

[0158] An overall energy flow 526 of the wave energy harvesting system 500 is schematically depicted in FIG. 35, in which energy captured at the first free-floating body 501 from water induced therethrough by the upward and downward motion 506 of the water waves (as indicated by the dashed arrow 526a) may be converted to the energy product 508 and transferred to the second free-floating body 580 (as indicated by a dashed arrow 526b) and then transferred from the second free-floating body 580 to a land-based vehicle 530 (as indicated by a dashed arrow 526c) to be transported to a storage facility and / or an end user for consumption. For example, in some embodiments, the wave energy harvesting system 500 may include a plurality of nodes including a plurality of first free-floating bodies 501, one or more second free-floating bodies 580 to transport a plurality of energy products 508 from the plurality of first free-floating bodies 501 to the land 518, and one or more land-based vehicles 530 to transport the plurality of energy products 508 from the one or more second free-floating bodies 580 to the storage facility and / or the end user. In other instances, the energy products 508 may be directly transported from the second free-floating body 580 to a storage facility and / or end user on the land 518 or within a certain distance of the land 518 (e.g., up to 100 kilometers from land, up to 40 kilometers from land, up to 1 kilometer from land, up to 500 meters from land, or up to 50 meters from land). Though storage facilities or consumption locations may be further from land in other embodiments.

[0159] In an example embodiment, the energy product 508 may be a fluid (e.g., a liquid or a gas) which is transferred from the first free-floating body 501 to the second free-floating body 580 via the conduit 540, the conduit 540 being configured to transiently fluidly couple an internal reservoir of the second free-floating body 580 to an internal reservoir of the first free-floating body 501 via one or more internal passages extending at least a length of the conduit 540 (internal reservoirs and internal passage(s) not shown at FIG. 35). In certain embodiments, the conduit 540 may include a plurality of internal passages, each of which may convey a different fluid between the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580. As an example, the conduit 540 may include a first internal passage configured to supply an energy product precursor 509 (e.g., an electrolysis reactant, such as deionized water) from the second free-floating body 580 to the first free-floating body 501 so as to replace the energy product 508 being transferred to the second free-floating body 580. Accordingly, in such an example, the conduit 540 may further include a second internal passage configured to siphon the energy product 508 (e.g., an electrolysis product, such as hydrogen gas) from the first free-floating body 501 to the second free-floating body 580. As such, the overall energy flow 526 may be maintained by periodically (e.g., once per week) replenishing a capacity of the first free-floating body 501 to convert captured energy into a chemical energy product.

[0160] In some embodiments, the adjustments to the position of the conduit assembly 541 may be executed based on a manual operator input, e.g., at the user interface of the remote controller 514. In additional or alternative embodiments, the adjustments to the position of the conduit assembly 541 may be automatically adjusted, e.g., based on feedback from one or more sensors and / or data received via the wireless network 512. As an example, one or both of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580 may include an accelerometer (e.g., an inertial measurement unit; not shown) configured to gather changes in local positional data, e.g., resulting from water wave motions. As an additional or alternative example, one or both of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580 may include a global positioning system (not shown) configured to gather geographic positional data. As an additional or alternative example, one or both of the first and second free-floating bodies 501, 580 may include a wind speed sensor (not shown) configured to measure wind speed. As an additional or alternative example, such data (e.g., the positional data and / or the wind speed) may be received via the wireless network 512, in addition to other data such as meteorological data (e.g., water wave height, direction of water wave propagation, water wave period, weather, etc.). In some embodiments, directions and magnitudes of applied forces may be inferred based on the feedback from the one or more sensors and / or the data received via the wireless network 512, such that specific operational parameters (e.g., the one or more continuously adjustable parameters) may be adjusted responsive such that changes in individual applied forces may be accounted for with specificity. Though, the use of a retractable offtake system, such as those described in greater detail herein, may allow for a more passive and precise fluidic coupling between the free-floating bodies 501 and 508, even in the view of wave conditions, wind conditions, or other environmental factors.

[0161] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 35, the energy product 508 is generated at the first free- floating body 501 and subsequently transported to land 518. That is, the energy product 508 may not undergo any subsequent processing after it has been produced. However, in other embodiments, the energy product 508 may be further processed in order to generate an alternative product before reaching land 518 (or near land). For example, the initial energy product 508 may be filtered, compressed (e.g., from gas to liquid), used in a reaction as a precursor, or otherwise processed before reaching land 518 or near land. For example, hydrogen gas may be used as a precursor in order to generate a more energy dense substance or fuel, such as methanol, or algae can be processed into algae oil. These processing operations may be implemented on the first free-floating body 501, on the second free-floating body 580, or on a combination of both the first free-floating body 501 and the second free-floating body 580. Examples of such processing are shown in FIGs. 36 - 38.

[0162] Referring now to FIG. 36 a side perspective view of an WEC 550 with a retractable offtake system and an integrated processing plant on a platform 560 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 550 floats adjacent to an upper surface 551 of a body of water over which waves tend to pass. The WEC 550 comprises a hollow buoyant chamber 552, and / or buoy. In an embodiment a tube 554 is coupled to the buoyant chamber 552. A chamber 553 for storing an energy product (e.g., hydrogen gas) may have a pipe 557 that is fluidically coupled to a receiving portion 559 of a housing 558 for the retractable offtake system. The retractable offtake system included in FIG. 36 may be similar to any of the embodiments described in greater detail herein. For example, the line 555 within the housing 558 may be coupled to a weight, a buoy, and / or a pulley in order to enable passive retraction of the line 555 and passive self-alignment of fluidic coupling components. A buoy 556 may be coupled to an end of the line 555 opposite from the weight.

[0163] As described in other embodiments, an energy product 571 may be generated by way of conversion of wave energy into electrical power. In some embodiments, the energy product 571 may be a gas or other fluid, such as hydrogen gas. In some instances, the energy product 571 may be stored in chamber 553 along the tube 554. The energy product 571 may also be stored in a first storage container 561. WEC 550 depicts the first storage container 561 for the energy product 571 being on the platform 560. Though other implementations may include the first storage container 561 being integrated into the hollow chamber 552, being external to the WEC 550 (e.g., being attached or otherwise coupled to an external surface of the WEC 550), or positioned in the approximate area of the WEC 550 (e.g., on a second floating platform that is at least temporarily coupled to the WEC 550).

[0164] In an embodiment, the energy product 571 in the first storage container 561 may be used as a precursor for a chemical reaction. In an additional embodiment, a second precursor 572 may be stored in a second storage container 562. In the instance of a chemical reaction to convert hydrogen gas into methanol, the second precursor 572 may comprise CO2 or another carbon containing source. The second precursor 572 may also be generated as an energy product on the WEC 550, or the second precursor 572 may be periodically replenished by a vessel, or the like. The energy product 571 may flow from the first storage container 561 into a reaction apparatus 563 through pipe 566, and the second precursor 572 may flow from the second storage container 562 into the reaction apparatus 563 through pipe 565. The reacted product 573 (e.g., a second energy product) may flow through pipe 567 into a third storage container 564. The reacted product 573 may be periodically removed from the third storage container 564 for transport to an alternative location (e.g., another storage location or use facility, either on the body of water 551 or on land). While a simple reaction process is shown in FIG. 30, it is to be appreciated that any suitable conversion, filtering, compression, reaction, treatment, or the like may be implemented on the WEC 550.

[0165] Referring now to FIG. 37 a side view schematic of a vessel 580 that may be used to transport an energy product from a WEC (not shown) to land (not show) is shown. For example, vessel 580 may be similar to the second free-floating body 580 in FIG. 35. The vessel 580 may include a first storage container 581 for storing an energy product 591. The energy product 591 may be transported into the first storage container 581 from a WEC, or from another vessel (not shown) that obtained the energy product 591 from a WEC. For example, the energy product 591 may comprise hydrogen or any other energy product described in greater detail herein. The vessel 580 may also comprise a second storage container 582 for storing an additional precursor 592. In the case of hydrogen to methanol conversion, the additional precursor 592 may comprise carbon (e.g., CO2). In an embodiment, the energy product 591 and the precursor 592 are flown into a reaction apparatus 583. The combined energy product 591 and precursor 592 may react in the reaction apparatus 583 to form a reacted product 593 that is transported to a third storage container 584. The reacted product 593 may be transported by the vessel 580 to an alternative storage or use facility (either on land or on the water 551). While a simple reaction process is shown in FIG. 37, it is to be appreciated that any suitable conversion, filtering, compression, reaction, treatment, or the like may be implemented on the vessel 580.

[0166] Referring now to FIG. 38 a diagram providing a more detailed explanation of a reaction process that may be used to convert a first energy product into a second energy product is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The conversion depicted in FIG. 38 can be implemented on a WEC (e.g., similar to FIG. 36), on a transport vessel (e.g., similar to FIG. 37), partially on the WEC and partially on the transport vessel, or partially on a first transport vessel and partially on a second transport vessel. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 38, a detailed process by which methanol (CH3OH) is synthesized from, by, and / or through, CO2 hydrogenation is shown. In an embodiment, CO2 is stored in CO2 tank 659 and H2 is stored in H2 tank 658. One or both of the CO2 and the H2 may be energy products generated by a WEC . The CO2 and H2 are pumped with pump 691 and pump 692 and combined in a mixer 661 with a recirculated stream from flash vessel 662. The mixed stream (of CO2 and H2 gases) is pumped to a catalytic reactor vessel 663 where an exothermic reaction takes place, and the temperature and pressure can reach 250°C and 65 bar, respectively, or higher. The post-reaction stream exits the catalytic reactor vessel 663 and passes through heat exchanger 667 and then enters flash vessel 662 where the temperature and pressure will be approximately 30.0 °C and 64.5 bar, respectively.

[0167] A stream of H2, CO and CO2 from flash vessel 662 is recirculated back to mixer 661 by pump 669 after being purged of a small amount of gas to further purify the stream. The liquid stream from flash vessel 662 enters heat exchanger 667 which is then pumped to distillation tower 671 by pump 673. The crude CH3OH stream entering distillation tower 671 can be at a temperature and pressure of 85 °C and 1.3 bar, respectively. A final separation of CH3OH and water takes place within distillation tower 671. Gaseous CH3OH is pumped to methanol ballast sphere 655 via a compressor pump 678 where the CH3OH is cooled to liquefaction. Water extracted from the crude aqueous CH3OH is released from a bottom of the distillation tower 671. Other processes for synthesizing methanol from CO2 and H2 are known in the prior art and can be used in place of the one shown. Embodiments utilizing, incorporating, and / or including, such other methanol synthesis processes and / or associated mechanism and equipment are included within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, while methanol synthesis is provided as one example, conversion or reaction of any energy products using any suitable chemical reactions, processes, treatments, filtering, or the like may be used.

[0168] In the several of the previous embodiments, while energy products are defined as being physical items (e.g., fuels, chemicals, biological goods, etc.), embodiments are not limited to such configurations. For example, electrical power derived by a WEC described herein may be used to power one or more computational systems. These systems may be used in order to provide computational work that has a monetary or social value. For example, computational work can be used to host a data center, implement block-chain mining, training machine learning (ML) or artificial intelligence (Al) algorithms, or the like. An example of such a system is provided in FIG. 39.

[0169] Referring now to FIG. 39 a side perspective view of a WEC 600 that includes a retractable offtake system and an integrated computing system 611 on a platform 610 at the top of the WEC 600 is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The WEC 600 floats adjacent to an upper surface 601 of a body of water over which waves tend to pass. The WEC 600 comprises a hollow buoyant chamber 602, and / or buoy. In an embodiment a tube 604 is coupled to the buoyant chamber 602. A chamber 603 for storing an energy product (e.g., hydrogen gas) may have a pipe 607 that is fluidically coupled to a receiving portion 609 of a housing 608 for the retractable offtake system. The retractable offtake system included in FIG. 39 may be similar to any of the embodiments described in greater detail herein. For example, the line 605 within the housing 608 may be coupled to a weight, a buoy, and / or a pulley in order to enable passive retraction of the line 605 and passive self- alignment of fluidic coupling components. A buoy 606 may be coupled to an end of the line 605 opposite from the weight.

[0170] As described in other embodiments, an energy product may be generated by way of conversion of wave energy into electrical power. In some embodiments, the energy product may be a gas or other fluid, such as hydrogen gas. In some instances, the energy product may be stored in chamber 603 along the tube 604.

[0171] In an embodiment, a platform 610 may be provided over a top of the buoyant chamber 602. A computing system 611 may be provided on the platform and include an enclosure to protect components from water and the elements. Any number of computational systems (e.g., processors, graphics processors, etc.), memories, and / or the like may be housed within the enclosure. The computing system 611 may be configured with a plurality of processing systems integrated with each other in order to perform complex computer processing operations. As noted above, the computing system 611 may be optimized and / or configured to implement one or more of data center hosting, implementing block-chain mining, training ML or Al algorithms, or the like. The outcome of the computational work (e.g., block-chain coins or tokens, trained algorithms, data center capacity, etc.) can be transmitted to external devices over a wireless network through one or more antennas 612, or other wireless systems. As noted above, the computing system may be powered by energy generated by the WEC 600 through conversion of wave energy into electrical power, or through conversion of the energy product in the chamber 603 back into electrical power (e.g., through the use of a hydrogen fuel cell or the like). Referring now to FIG. 40 a perspective view of an computing system 700 that may be integrated with a WEC, such as those described in greater detail herein, is shown, in accordance with an embodiment. The computing system 700 may comprise an array of electronics, hardware, and / or software that are configured to control one or more aspects of the wave-energy generation device. While the components illustrated in FIG. 34 are shown on a single board, it is to be appreciated that components may be on separate boards, structures, or the like. The computing system 700 may be housed within a water tight chamber or enclosure provided on the WEC. Computing system 700 may comprise a computing device 710. The computing device 710 houses a board. The board may include a number of components, including but not limited to a processor 701. The processor 701 may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and / or the like. The processor 701 is physically and electrically coupled to the board. Other components of computing device 710 include, but are not limited to, memory 702 or 703, such as volatile memory (e.g., DRAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM), flash memory, a mass storage device (such as hard disk drive, compact disk (CD), digital versatile disk (DVD), and so forth). The computing device may comprise a communications chipset 704, a digital signal processor 705, a chipset 706, an antenna 707, and / or an input / out device 708.

[0172] Computing system 700 may comprise a communications device 720. The communications device 720 enables wireless communications for the transfer of data to and from the computing system 700. The term “wireless” and its derivatives may be used to describe circuits, devices, systems, methods, techniques, communications channels, etc., that may communicate data through the use of modulated electromagnetic radiation through a non-solid medium. The term does not imply that the associated devices do not contain any wires, although in some embodiments they might not. The communications device 720 may implement any of a number of wireless standards or protocols, including but not limited to Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 family), WiMAX (IEEE 802.16 family), IEEE 802.20, long term evolution (LTE), Ev-DO, HSPA+, HSDPA+, HSUPA+, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, CDMA, TDMA, DECT, Bluetooth, derivatives thereof, as well as any other wireless protocols that are designated as 3G, 4G, 5G, and beyond. The computing system 700 may include a plurality of communications devices 720. For instance, a first communications device 720 may be dedicated to shorter range wireless communications such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and a second communications device 720 may be dedicated to longer range wireless communications such as GPS, EDGE, GPRS, CDMA, WiMAX, LTE, Ev- DO, and others. The communications device 720 may be communicatively coupled to one or more antennas, satellite dishes, or other device to broadcast and / or receive wireless communications. The antennas or the like may be external to the enclosure, or the antennas may be within the enclosure.

[0173] Computing system 700 may also comprise a server rack 730. The server rack 730 may comprise a plurality of processors with associated hardware and software. The server rack 730 may execute computational work in order to provide a revenue generating service. The server rack 730 may be powered through energy generated by the WEC, such as those described in greater detail herein. While a constant power supply may be desired, computing system 700 may still function with an intermittent or non-constant power supply provided by wave-energy generation. To deal with the variable power supply, server rack 730 may include controllers that adjust clock speed for the processors. This allows for power consumption to be directly controlled to coincide with available power. In some instances, the server rack 730 may perform data center operations or tasks. The server rack 730 may host and / or deliver content, or otherwise provide a link between consumers and centralized data storage. In some instances, the server rack 730 may perform services in conjunction with block-chain technologies, such as cryptocurrency mining. The server rack 730 may perform services such as ML or Al training as well.

[0174] Computing system 700 may include a positioning system 740. The positioning system 740 may include one or more modules, components, and / or apparatuses for determining a geolocation of the wave-energy generation device. In some instances, the positioning system 740 may comprise a GPS, a compass, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or the like. The positioning system 740 may include a processor and / or controller to enable navigation for the wave-energy generation device. For example, actuators may be controlled in order to steer or direct the wave-energy generation device in a particular direction. Propulsion devices (e.g., propellers, water get flows, etc.) on the WEC may also be powered and / or directed by components of the positioning system 740.

[0175] Computing system 700 may include a sensor module 750. The sensor module 750 may include processors, memory, and associated hardware and software to control and / or record data from one or more sensors that monitor various aspects of the WEC. Sensors may comprise, but are not limited to, a pressure sensor, a gas composition sensor, a water level sensor, a temperature sensor, a fluid flow rate sensor, an electrical current sensor, a power sensor, a camera, an optical sensor, or the like. The physical sensors may be distributed throughout the WEC, and the controlling circuitry / software may be provided in the sensor module 750 within the computing system 700.

[0176] Computing system 700 may include an interface module 750. The interface module 750 may comprise one or more components used to interface with the wave-energy generation device. The interface module 750 may include one or more input devices. For example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touchscreen display, or the like may be provided in the interface module 750. Output devices, such as a display screen, a speaker, or the like may also be provided in the interface module 750. The interface module 750 may further comprise a camera, a video camera, a biometric screening device, or the like.

[0177] Computing system 700 may include a battery module 770. The battery module 770 may include any type of battery. The battery may include a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium based battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery). The battery of the battery module 770 may be charged by electricity generated by the WEC. The battery module 770 may be used as a store of power in order to power one or more electrical components of the computing system 700, or any other powered device of the wave-energy generation device. The battery module 770 may be used in order to normalize power delivery to electrical components. For example, the battery module may supply power in order to equalize total power delivery when the wave-energy generation device provides variable power over time.

[0178] Computing system 700 may also comprise any other module 760 including computing devices, memories, sensors, communications systems, and / or the like.

[0179] Referring now to FIG. 41 a perspective view of a server rack 730 that may be integrated into a WEC, such as those described in greater detail herein. As shown, the server rack 730 may include a plurality of server blades 735 that are provided on a rack 732. The server blades 735 may be communicatively coupled to each other through the rack 732 and / or associated cabling, in order to provide enhanced processing power. The server blades 735 may include processors, such as, but not limited to, central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or the like.

[0180] In some instances the server rack 730 is communicatively coupled to an antenna 737 to enable wireless communication. The antenna 737 may include a parabolic dish antenna or any other antenna configuration. The ability to wirelessly transmit data from the server rack 730 allows for data to be processed remotely at the source of power generation (e.g., in the ocean) while still being useful to the end consumer. The data delivery, hosting, computation, and the like can be executed at lower energy costs using such wave-energy generation devices. Further, the server rack 730 can be passively cooled by the body of water surrounding the wave-energy generation device (e.g., the server rack 730 can be in a water tight enclosure that is submersed in water). In some instances, the server rack 730 functions as a cryptocurrency mining rig that is powered through the energy produced by the WEC.

[0181] FIG. 42 is a process flow diagram of a process 810 for generating an energy product with a WEC and transporting the energy product to an alternative location. In an embodiment, the process 810 may begin with operation 811, which comprises converting wave energy into an energy product with a WEC that comprises a retractable offtake system. The WEC may be similar to any of the WECs described in greater detail herein. The energy product may be similar to any of the energy products described in greater detail herein. For example, the energy product may be a liquid or gas fuel (e.g., hydrogen), a chemical (e.g., HC1), a biological product (e.g., algae, fish, or any other marine species), or the like. The generation of the energy product may be made using any process described herein. For example, electrical power generated by the WEC can be used in order to produce the energy product.

[0182] In an embodiment, the process 810 may continue with operation 812, which comprises moving the energy product from the WEC to a transport vessel. The transport vessel may be similar to any vessel described herein. For example, the transport vessel may comprise a boat, a submersible, an aerial vehicle, or any other vessel that is capable of controlled motion on, through, and / or over the body of water on which the WEC floats. The energy product may be delivered or moved (actively or passively) to the transport vessel through any mechanism, such as a hose, a pipe, a cable, or the like. Fluidic coupling between the WEC and the transport vessel may be enabled through the use of a retractable offtake system, such as those described in greater detail herein.

[0183] In an embodiment, the process 810 may continue with operation 813, which comprises moving the energy product to a storage facility or a power plant with the transport vessel. The storage facility or a power plant may be provided at a location that is different than an approximate location of the WEC. In one embodiment, the location is at land. Though, in other embodiments, the location is near land (e.g., up to 100 kilometers from land, up to 40 kilometers from land, up to 1 kilometer from land, up to 500 meters from land, or up to 50 meters from land). In other embodiments, the storage facility may be a second vessel. For example, the first vessel may take the energy product from the WEC and deliver it to the second vessel. The second vessel may then take the energy product towards shore.

[0184] FIG. 43 is a process flow diagram of a process 820 for converting a first energy product into a second energy product and transporting the second energy product to a storage facility or power plant. In an embodiment, the process 820 may begin with operation 821, which comprises converting wave energy into a first energy product with a WEC that comprises a retractable offtake system. The WEC may be similar to any of the WECs described in greater detail herein. The first energy product may be similar to any of the energy products described in greater detail herein. For example, the energy product may be a liquid or gas fuel (e.g., hydrogen), a chemical (e.g., HC1), a biological product (e.g., algae, fish, or any other marine species), or the like. The generation of the first energy product may be made using any process described herein. For example, electrical power generated by the WEC can be used in order to produce the energy product.

[0185] In an embodiment, the process 820 may continue with operation 822, which comprises converting the first energy product into a second energy product through one or more processes on the WEC. The conversion of the first energy product to the second energy product may include converting one type of fuel or chemical into another fuel or chemical. In one embodiment, the first energy product may comprise hydrogen, and the second energy product may comprise methanol. Additional precursors (e.g., CO2) may be reacted with the first energy product in order to generate the second energy product. For example, a process similar to the process described with respect to FIG. 38 may be used in some embodiments. Other conversion processes may also be used, such as, but not limited to, filtering, compression (e.g., from a gas to a liquid), purification, or the like may be used. Conversions may also include processing biological products. For example, algae may be processed into algae oil, or fish may be processed into fish oil. The conversion process may be implemented on or within the vicinity of the WEC. For example, a processing plant may be provided on the WEC, similar to what is shown in FIG. 30.

[0186] In an embodiment, the process 820 may continue with operation 823, which comprises moving the second energy product from the WEC to a transport vessel. The transport vessel may be similar to any vessel described herein. For example, the transport vessel may comprise a boat, a submersible, an aerial vehicle, or any other vessel that is capable of controlled motion on, through, and / or over the body of water on which the WEC floats. The second energy product may be delivered or moved (actively or passively) to the transport vessel through any mechanism, such as a hose, a pipe, a cable, or the like. Fluidic coupling between the WEC and the transport vessel may be enabled through the use of a retractable offtake system, such as those described in greater detail herein.

[0187] In an embodiment, the process may continue with operation 824, which comprises delivering the second energy product to a storage facility or a power plant with the transport vessel. The storage facility or a power plant may be provided at a location that is different than an approximate location of the WEC. In one embodiment, the location is at land. Though, in other embodiments, the location is near land (e.g., up to 100 kilometers from land, up to 40 kilometers from land, up to 1 kilometer from land, up to 500 meters from land, or up to 50 meters from land). In other embodiments, the storage facility may be a second vessel. For example, the first vessel may take the second energy product from the WEC and deliver it to the second vessel. The second vessel may then take the second energy product towards shore.

[0188] FIG. 44 is a process flow diagram of a process 830 for converting a first energy product into a second energy product and transporting the second energy product to storage facility or power plant. In an embodiment, the process 830 may begin with operation 831, which comprises converting wave energy into a first energy product with a WEC that comprises retractable offtake system. The WEC may be similar to any of the WECs described in greater detail herein. The first energy product may be similar to any of the energy products described in greater detail herein. For example, the energy product may be a liquid or gas fuel (e.g., hydrogen), a chemical (e.g., HC1), a biological product (e.g., algae, fish, or any other marine species), or the like. The generation of the first energy product may be made using any process described herein. For example, electrical power generated by the WEC can be used in order to produce the energy product.

[0189] In an embodiment, the process 830 may continue with operation 832, which comprises moving the first energy product from the WEC to a transport vessel. The transport vessel may be similar to any vessel described herein. For example, the transport vessel may comprise a boat, a submersible, an aerial vehicle, or any other vessel that is capable of controlled motion on, through, or over the body of water on which the WEC floats. The first energy product may be delivered or moved (actively or passively) to the transport vessel through any mechanism, such as a hose, a pipe, a cable, or the like. Fluidic coupling between the WEC and the transport vessel may be enabled through the use of a retractable offtake system, such as those described in greater detail herein.

[0190] In an embodiment, the process 830 may continue with operation 833, which comprises converting the first energy product into a second energy product through one or more processes on the transport vessel. The conversion of the first energy product to the second energy product may include converting one type of fuel or chemical into another fuel or chemical. In one embodiment, the first energy product may comprise hydrogen, and the second energy product may comprise methanol. Additional precursors (e.g., CO2) may be reacted with the first energy product in order to generate the second energy product. For example, a process similar to the process described with respect to FIG. 36 may be used in some embodiments. Other conversion processes may also be used, such as, but not limited to, filtering, compression (e.g., from a gas to a liquid), purification, or the like may be used. Conversions may also include processing biological products. For example, algae may be processed into algae oil, or fish may be processed into fish oil. The conversion process may be implemented on or within the vicinity of the transport vessel. For example, a processing plant may be provided on the transport vessel, similar to what is shown in FIG. 37.

[0191] In an embodiment, the process 830 may continue with operation 834, which comprises delivering the second energy product to a storage facility or a power plant with the transport vessel. The storage facility or a power plant may be provided at a location that is different than an approximate location of the WEC. In one embodiment, the location is at land. Though, in other embodiments, the location is near land (e.g., up to 100 kilometers from land, up to 40 kilometers from land, up to 1 kilometer from land, up to 500 meters from land, or up to 50 meters from land). In other embodiments, the storage facility may be a second vessel. For example, the first vessel may take the energy product from the WEC and deliver it to the second vessel. The second vessel may then take the energy product towards shore.

[0192] FIG. 45 is a process flow diagram of a process 840 for using a WEC to power a computing system (either directly or through use of an energy product) in order to generate digital goods. In an embodiment, the process 840 may begin with operation 841, which comprises converting wave energy into an energy product with a WEC that comprises a retractable offtake system. The WEC may be similar to any of the WECs described in greater detail herein. The first energy product may be similar to any of the energy products described in greater detail herein. For example, the energy product may be a liquid or gas fuel (e.g., hydrogen), a chemical (e.g., HC1), a biological product (e.g., algae, fish, or any other marine species), or the like. The generation of the first energy product may be made using any process described herein. For example, electrical power generated by the WEC can be used in order to produce the energy product.

[0193] In an embodiment, the process 840 may continue with operation 842, which comprises powering a computer system coupled to the WEC through the conversion of the energy product into electricity. For example, the energy product may be a fuel (e.g., hydrogen) that can be consumed to generate electricity. This may provide a more stable and consistent power supply than relying on the direct conversion of wave energy to electricity to power the computer system. Though, in some embodiments, the WEC may directly power the computer system without the need to generate an intervening energy product to store energy for future use.

[0194] In an embodiment, the process 840 may continue with operation 843, which may comprise generating a digital good through use of the computing system. In an embodiment, the digital good may include a block-chain based coin, a trained ML algorithm, a trained Al algorithm, a software product, a digital token, server capacity, or the like. The digital good may be stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium (e.g., a memory, a disk drive, a CD, a DVD, or other storage medium) in some embodiments.

[0195] In an embodiment, the process 840 may continue with operation 844, which comprises wirelessly transporting the digital good to a receiving device external to the WEC. The receiving device may be a second non-transitory computer readable medium provided at a location remote from the WEC. For example, the receiving device may be located on land or near land (e.g., up to 100 kilometers from land, up to 40 kilometers from land, up to 1 kilometer from land, up to 500 meters from land, or up to 50 meters from land). In an embodiment, the wireless transfer of the digital good may be transmitted through an antenna or other device for connecting to a wireless network. While wireless transport of the digital good may be faster, physical transport of the digital good stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium may also be provided by way of a vessel, a wired connection, or the like.

[0196] While the foregoing disclosure has described various embodiments, it is understood that the invention is not limited to any specific embodiment or depiction herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art would readily appreciate modifications and substitutions herein, and the scope of the invention includes all such modifications and substitutions. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be construed to be limiting by the foreign description except where expressly so stated, but rather the invention’s scope is properly determined by the appended claims, using the common and ordinary meanings of the words therein consistent with, but not limited by, the descriptions and figures of this disclosure.

[0197] EXAMPLES

[0198] Example 1: a wave energy converter (WEC), comprising: a buoyant chamber; a tube that depends from the buoyant chamber; and a retractable offtake coupled to the tube, wherein the retractable offtake comprises: a housing with a receiving portion, wherein a first opening and a second opening are within the receiving portion; a line with a first end and a second end, wherein the line is configured to pass through the second opening; a weight coupled to the line; and a buoy coupled to the line proximate to the first end of the line, wherein the buoy is configured to float in a body of water, and wherein the weight is coupled to the line so that the line passively retracts into the housing.

[0199] Example 2: the WEC of Example 1, wherein the receiving portion is frustoconical.

[0200] Example 3: the WEC of Example 2, wherein the first opening is at a narrow end of the receiving portion, and wherein the second opening is between a wide end of the receiving portion and the narrow end of the receiving portion.

[0201] Example 4: the WEC of Examples 1-3, wherein passive retraction of the line into the housing is configured to fluidically couple a hose to the first opening, and wherein the hose is mechanically coupled to the line.

[0202] Example 5: the WEC of Examples 1-4, further comprising: a storage chamber coupled to the WEC; and a pipe fluidically coupled between the first opening and the storage chamber. Example 6: the WEC of Example 1-5, further comprising: a seal over the first opening.

[0203] Example 7: the WEC of Example 6, wherein the seal comprises a quick-connect connector or a press-fit connector.

[0204] Example 8: the WEC of Examples 1-7, wherein the weight is coupled to the line proximate to the second end of the line.

[0205] Example 9: the WEC of Examples 1-8, wherein the weight is coupled to a pulley, and wherein the line is configured to engage the pulley.

[0206] Example 10: the WEC of Example 9, wherein the second end of the line is secured to a portion of the housing.

[0207] Example 11: the WEC of Examples 1-10, wherein a bottom of the housing is sealed.

[0208] Example 12: the WEC of Examples 1-11, wherein a bottom of the housing is open.

[0209] Example 13: the WEC of Examples 1-12, wherein the receiving portion is configured to be below a surface of the body of water.

[0210] Example 14: the WEC of Examples 1-13, wherein the receiving portion is configured to be above a surface of the body of water.

[0211] Example 15: the WEC of Example 14, wherein the receiving portion is configured to be above the buoyant chamber.

[0212] Example 16: a retractable offtake system, comprising: a housing; a receiving portion coupled to the housing, wherein the receiving portion comprises a frustoconical shape with a wide end and a narrow end; a first opening proximate to the narrow end of the receiving portion, wherein the first opening is fluidically coupled to a pipe; and a second opening between the wide end and the narrow end, and wherein the second opening provides a path from the receiving portion to an interior of the housing.

[0213] Example 17: the retractable offtake system of Example 16, wherein the first opening comprises a port with a seal.

[0214] Example 18: the retractable offtake system of Example 17, wherein the seal comprises a quickconnect connector or a press-fit connector.

[0215] Example 19: the retractable offtake system of Examples 16-18, further comprising: a line that passes through the wide end of the receiving portion and through the second opening into the housing, wherein a buoy is coupled to the line proximate to a first end of the line, and wherein a weight is coupled to the line at a second end of the line and / or between the first end of the line and the second end of the line.

[0216] Example 20: the retractable offtake system of Example 19, wherein the weight is configured to retract the line into the housing after the line has been extracted from the housing.

[0217] Example 21 : the retractable offtake system of Example 20, further comprising: a hose coupled to the line, and wherein a retraction of the line into the housing is configured to insert a nozzle at an end of the hose into the first opening.

[0218] Example 22: the retractable offtake system of Example 21, further comprising: a thruster coupled to the hose.

[0219] Example 23: the retractable offtake system of Examples 19-22, wherein the weight is coupled to a pulley, and wherein the line at least partially wraps around the pulley.

[0220] Example 24: the retractable offtake system of Examples 19-23, wherein the weight is within the housing.

[0221] Example 25: the retractable offtake system of Examples 16-24, wherein the retractable offtake system is coupled to a wave energy converter (WEC).

[0222] Example 26: the retractable offtake system of Example 25, wherein the WEC comprises a storage chamber that is fluidically coupled to the first opening.

[0223] Example 27: the retractable offtake system of Example 26, wherein an energy product is stored in the storage chamber, and wherein the energy product is offloaded from the WEC through the first opening of the retractable offtake system.

[0224] Example 28: the retractable offtake system of Example 27, wherein the energy product comprises hydrogen.

[0225] Example 29: a wave energy converter (WEC) that floats adjacent to an upper surface of a body of water over which waves pass, the WEC comprising: a retractable offtake system with a housing that is coupled to a vertical tube of the WEC, wherein the vertical tube depends from a buoyant chamber at the upper surface of the body of water, wherein the housing comprises a frustoconical receiving portion that comprises a port, wherein the frustoconical receiving portion is configured to be a guide in order to engage an incoming nozzle with the port, wherein the port is fluidically coupled to a reservoir for an energy product and / or a precursor used to generate the energy product, wherein the retractable offtake system further comprises a line that is coupled to a weight and a buoy, wherein the line passes out of the frustoconical receiving portion into the body of water, wherein an end of the line is maintained near the upper surface of the body of water by the buoy, and wherein the weight passively retracts the line back into the housing after the line has been extracted from the housing.

[0226] Example 30: the WEC of Example 29, wherein the incoming nozzle is at an end of a hose, and wherein the hose is coupled to the line so that the incoming nozzle engages with the port as the line is retracted back into the housing.

Claims

We claim:

1. A wave energy converter (WEC), comprising: a buoyant chamber; a tube that depends from the buoyant chamber; and a retractable offtake coupled to the tube, wherein the retractable offtake comprises: a housing with a receiving portion, wherein a first opening and a second opening are within the receiving portion; a line with a first end and a second end, wherein the line is configured to pass through the second opening; a weight coupled to the line; and a buoy coupled to the line proximate to the first end of the line, wherein the buoy is configured to float in a body of water, and wherein the weight is coupled to the line so that the line passively retracts into the housing.

2. The WEC of claim 1, wherein the receiving portion is frustoconical.

3. The WEC of claim 2, wherein the first opening is at a narrow end of the receiving portion, and wherein the second opening is between a wide end of the receiving portion and the narrow end of the receiving portion.

4. The WEC of claim 1, wherein passive retraction of the line into the housing is configured to fluidically couple a hose to the first opening, and wherein the hose is mechanically coupled to the line.

5. The WEC of claim 1, further comprising: a storage chamber coupled to the WEC; and a pipe fluidically coupled between the first opening and the storage chamber.

6. The WEC of claim 1, further comprising: a seal over the first opening.

7. The WEC of claim 6, wherein the seal comprises a quick-connect connector or a press-fit connector.

8. The WEC of claim 1, wherein the weight is coupled to the line proximate to the second end of the line.

9. The WEC of claim 1, wherein the weight is coupled to a pulley, and wherein the line is configured to engage the pulley.

10. The WEC of claim 9, wherein the second end of the line is secured to a portion of the housing.

11. The WEC of claim 1, wherein a bottom of the housing is sealed.

12. The WEC of claim 1, wherein a bottom of the housing is open.

13. The WEC of claim 1, wherein the receiving portion is configured to be below a surface of the body of water.

14. The WEC of claim 1, wherein the receiving portion is configured to be above a surface of the body of water.

15. The WEC of claim 14, wherein the receiving portion is configured to be above the buoyant chamber.

16. A retractable offtake system, comprising: a housing; a receiving portion coupled to the housing, wherein the receiving portion comprises a frustoconical shape with a wide end and a narrow end; a first opening proximate to the narrow end of the receiving portion, wherein the first opening is fluidically coupled to a pipe; and a second opening between the wide end and the narrow end, and wherein the second opening provides a path from the receiving portion to an interior of the housing.

17. The retractable offtake system of claim 16, wherein the first opening comprises a port with a seal.

18. The retractable offtake system of claim 17, wherein the seal comprises a quick-connect connector or a press-fit connector.

19. The retractable offtake system of claim 16, further comprising: a line that passes through the wide end of the receiving portion and through the second opening into the housing, wherein a buoy is coupled to the line proximate to a first end of the line, and wherein a weight is coupled to the line at a second end of the line and / or between the first end of the line and the second end of the line.

20. The retractable offtake system of claim 19, wherein the weight is configured to retract the line into the housing after the line has been extracted from the housing.

21. The retractable offtake system of claim 20, further comprising: a hose coupled to the line, and wherein a retraction of the line into the housing is configured to insert a nozzle at an end of the hose into the first opening.

22. The retractable offtake system of claim 21, further comprising: a thruster coupled to the hose.

23. The retractable offtake system of claim 19, wherein the weight is coupled to a pulley, and wherein the line at least partially wraps around the pulley.

24. The retractable offtake system of claim 19, wherein the weight is within the housing.

25. The retractable offtake system of claim 16, wherein the retractable offtake system is coupled to a wave energy converter (WEC).

26. The retractable offtake system of claim 25, wherein the WEC comprises a storage chamber that is fluidically coupled to the first opening.

27. The retractable offtake system of claim 26, wherein an energy product is stored in the storage chamber, and wherein the energy product is offloaded from the WEC through the first opening of the retractable offtake system.

28. The retractable offtake system of claim 27, wherein the energy product comprises hydrogen.

29. A wave energy converter (WEC) that floats adjacent to an upper surface of a body of water over which waves pass, the WEC comprising: a retractable offtake system with a housing that is coupled to a vertical tube of the WEC, wherein the vertical tube depends from a buoyant chamber at the upper surface of the body of water, wherein the housing comprises a frustoconical receiving portion that comprises a port, wherein the frustoconical receiving portion is configured to be a guide in order to engage an incoming nozzle with the port, wherein the port is fluidically coupled to a reservoir for an energy product and / or a precursor used to generate the energy product, wherein the retractable offtake system further comprises a line that is coupled to a weight and a buoy, wherein the line passes out of the frustoconical receiving portion into the body of water, wherein an end of the line is maintained near the upper surface of the body of water by the buoy, and wherein the weight passively retracts the line back into the housing after the line has been extracted from the housing.

30. The WEC of claim 29, wherein the incoming nozzle is at an end of a hose, and wherein the hose is coupled to the line so that the incoming nozzle engages with the port as the line is retracted back into the housing.

Images