Wave power generation device and flywheel

Abstract

This wave power generation device includes: a floating body; a pulley for converting vertical motion of the floating body into rotational motion; a power generation device; and a flywheel. The flywheel includes: a flywheel body part which rotates together with a shaft connected to the pulley; and a flywheel weight part disposed in the flywheel body part. The flywheel body part is configured to move the flywheel weight part outward in a radial direction of the flywheel body part by centrifugal force generated with rotation of the flywheel body part.

Description

Wave power generation device and flywheel

[0001] The present invention relates to a wave power generation device and a flywheel.

[0002] Patent No. 6601669 discloses a power generation system equipped with a flywheel. The power generation system includes a floating body, a dynamo, a pressing part, a gear, a shaft, and a flywheel. A part of the floating body floats on the water surface. The floating body is fixed to the pressing part. The pressing part is a long body that presses the gear so that the gear rotates. The gear transmits power to the dynamo by rotating and moving itself. The shaft is fixed to the gear and the dynamo. The flywheel is fixed to the shaft and stabilizes the rotation of the rotation axis (shaft) of the dynamo. The dynamo generates electricity by rotating.

[0003] Patent No. 6601669

[0004] The power generation system described in Patent No. 6601669 generates electricity due to the fluctuation of the height position of the water surface caused by waves. Here, it is desirable that the power generation by the dynamo has a small fluctuation in rotational speed. In order to suppress the fluctuation of the rotational speed, the power generation system is provided with a flywheel for generating a moment of inertia. However, in nature, there are waves of various sizes. Therefore, in the case of small waves, it is difficult to rotate (start) the dynamo due to the presence of the flywheel. That is, when the rotational speed of the shaft is high, a flywheel that can suppress the fluctuation of the rotational speed and is easy to change the rotational speed to a high state when the rotational speed of the shaft is low is desired.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a flywheel that can suppress the fluctuation of the rotational speed when the rotational speed of the shaft is high and is easy to change the rotational speed to a high state when the rotational speed of the shaft is low, and a wave power generation device equipped with the same.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, a wave power generation device according to a first aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a floating body, at least a portion of which is capable of floating on the water surface, which moves up and down in accordance with changes in the position of the water surface due to waves; a power conversion unit that converts the up and down motion of the floating body into rotational motion; a power generation unit that converts the rotational motion from the power conversion unit into electricity; and a flywheel disposed in the motion transmission path from the floating body to the power generation unit for maintaining the rotational motion. The flywheel includes a flywheel body that rotates together with a shaft connected to the power conversion unit, and a flywheel weight disposed on the flywheel body. The flywheel body has a moving mechanism that moves the flywheel weight radially outward from the flywheel body by the centrifugal force generated as the flywheel body rotates.

[0007] A flywheel according to a second embodiment comprises a flywheel body that rotates together with a shaft, and a flywheel weight portion disposed on the flywheel body. The flywheel body has a moving mechanism that moves the flywheel weight portion radially outward from the flywheel body by the centrifugal force generated as the flywheel body rotates.

[0008] With the above configuration, when the shaft rotation speed is high, fluctuations in rotation speed can be suppressed, while when the shaft rotation speed is low, it is possible to easily change the rotation speed to a high state.

[0009] Figure 1 is a block diagram of the wave power generation system 100 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a plan view of the inside of the housing 12 of the wave power generation device 10, viewed from above. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the gearbox 23. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the gearbox 23. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the wave power generation device 10. Figure 6 is a side view of the wave power generation device 10. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the rail member 70. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the change in position of the floating body 850 and the change in position of the weight 60 due to the movement of the water surface W. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the change in position of the floating body 850 and the change in position of the weight 60 due to the movement of the water surface W. Figure 10 is a plan view of the floating body 50. Figure 11 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 10a according to the first modification of the first embodiment. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 10b according to the second modification of the first embodiment. Figure 13 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 10c according to the third modification of the first embodiment. Figure 14 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 10d according to the fourth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 15 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 10e according to the fifth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 16 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 10f according to the sixth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 17 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 10g according to the seventh modification of the first embodiment. Figure 18 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 10h according to the eighth modification of the first embodiment. Figure 19 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 210 according to the second embodiment. Figure 20 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310 according to the third embodiment. Figure 21 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310a according to the ninth modification of the third embodiment. Figure 22 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310b according to the tenth modification of the third embodiment. Figure 23 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310c according to the eleventh modification of the third embodiment. Figure 24 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310d according to the 12th modification according to the third embodiment. Figure 25 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310e according to the 13th modification according to the third embodiment. Figure 26 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310e according to the 13th modification according to the third embodiment. Figure 27 shows the configuration of the floating body 350f according to the 14th modification according to the third embodiment.Figure 28 shows the configuration of the floating body 350g according to the 15th modification of the third embodiment. Figure 29 shows the configuration of the floating body 350h according to the 16th modification of the third embodiment. Figure 30 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 510 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 31 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 610 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of the wave power generation device 610 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 33 shows the configuration of the housing 620 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 34 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 710 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 35 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 710 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view of the wave power generation device 710a according to a modification (17th modification) of the sixth embodiment. Figure 37 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 810 according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 38 shows the configuration of the wave power generation system 800 according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 39 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800a according to the 18th modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 40 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800b according to the 19th modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 41 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800c according to the 20th modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 42 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800d according to the 21st modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 43 shows the configuration of wave power generation device 810e according to the 22nd modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 44 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800f according to the 23rd modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 45 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800g according to the 24th modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 46 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800h according to the 25th modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 47 shows the configuration of wave power generation system 800i according to the 26th modification of the 7th embodiment. Figure 48 shows the configuration of wave power generation device 910 according to the 8th embodiment. Figure 49 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 910 according to the eighth embodiment. Figure 50 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 910 according to the eighth embodiment. Figure 51 shows the configuration of the wave-breaking member 960a according to the 27th modification of the eighth embodiment. Figure 52 shows the configuration of the wave-breaking member 960b according to the 28th modification of the eighth embodiment.Figure 53 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation device 1010 according to the ninth embodiment. Figure 54 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1100 according to the tenth embodiment. Figure 55 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1200 according to the eleventh embodiment. Figure 56 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1200 according to the eleventh embodiment. Figure 57 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1300 according to the 29th modification of the eleventh embodiment. Figure 58 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1300 according to the 29th modification of the eleventh embodiment. Figure 59 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1300a according to the 30th modification of the eleventh embodiment. Figure 60 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1300b according to the 31st modification of the eleventh embodiment. Figure 61 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1300c according to the 32nd modification of the eleventh embodiment. Figure 62 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the housing 1420 according to the 33rd modification. Figure 63 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the housing 1420 according to the 33rd modification. Figure 64 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the housing 1420a according to the 34th modification. Figure 65 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the housing 1420b according to the 35th modification. Figure 66 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the housing 1420b according to the 35th modification. Figure 67 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation device 1510 according to the 36th modification. Figure 68 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation device 1610 according to the 37th modification. Figure 69 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation device 1710 according to the 38th modification. Figure 70 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the floating body 1850 according to the 39th modification. Figure 71 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the floating body 1850a according to the 40th modification. Figure 72 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the floating body 1850b according to the 41st modification. Figure 73 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the floating body 1850c according to the 42nd modification. Figure 74 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 1910 according to the 43rd modified example. Figure 75 is a diagram showing the configuration of the flywheel 22 according to the first embodiment. Figure 76 is a diagram showing the configuration of the flywheel 22 according to the first embodiment. Figure 77 is a side view showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2010 according to the 12th embodiment. Figure 78 is a side view showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2010 according to the 12th embodiment.Figure 79 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2110 according to the 13th embodiment. Figure 80 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2110 according to the 13th embodiment. Figure 81 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2110 according to the 13th embodiment. Figure 82 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2110 according to the 13th embodiment. Figure 83 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2210 according to the 14th embodiment. Figure 84 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2210 according to the 14th embodiment. Figure 85 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2310 according to the 15th embodiment. Figure 86 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2310 according to the 15th embodiment. Figure 87 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2410 according to the 16th embodiment. Figure 88 is a diagram showing the configuration of the drive device 2510 according to the 44th modification. Figure 89 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2610 according to the 45th modification. Figure 90 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 2710 according to the 46th modified example. Figure 91 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 2710 according to the 46th modified example.

[0010] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below, and design modifications can be made as appropriate within the scope of satisfying the configuration of this disclosure. Furthermore, in the following description, the same reference numerals are used in common across different drawings for identical parts or parts with similar functions, and repeated explanations are omitted. Also, the configurations described in the embodiments and modifications may be combined or modified as appropriate. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, the configurations in the drawings referenced below are simplified or schematic, and some components are omitted.

[0011] [First Embodiment] (Outline of Wave Power Generation System 100) Figure 1 is a block diagram of the wave power generation system 100 according to the first embodiment. The wave power generation system 100 is a system that converts wave energy into electricity. The wave power generation system 100 includes a plurality of wave power generation devices 10. A portion of the electricity output by the plurality of wave power generation devices 10 is converted into a voltage corresponding to the equipment 102 by a power converter 101 and supplied to the equipment 102. In addition, a portion of the electricity output by the plurality of wave power generation devices 10 is converted into a voltage corresponding to the storage battery 103 by the power converter 101 and supplied to the storage battery 103. When the wave power generation system 100 is installed on a quay, the equipment 102 is, for example, pier lights, lights and electrical equipment in land-based facilities.

[0012] (Configuration of the wave power generation device 10) Figure 2 is a plan view of the inside of the housing 12 of the wave power generation device 10, viewed from above. As shown in Figure 2, the wave power generation device 10 includes a housing 20, a power generation device 21, a flywheel 22, a gearbox 23, shafts 24-26, pulleys 31 and 32, and a rope 40. The housing 20 contains the power generation device 21, the flywheel 22, the gearbox 23, shafts 24-26, pulleys 31 and 32, and the first portion 41 of the rope 40. The gearbox 23, shafts 24-26, pulleys 31 and 32, and rope 40 are components (paths) that transmit power from the floating body 50 to the power generation device 21.

[0013] <Configuration of the power generator 21 and flywheel 22> The power generator 21 includes a dynamo (not shown). The rotation of a shaft 25 connected to the dynamo generates an electromotive force in the dynamo, and the power generator 21 generates electricity. The flywheel 22 is fixed to the shaft 25. The flywheel 22 has a disc shape and has the function of stabilizing the rotation of the dynamo in the power generator 21 by the moment of inertia generated by the rotation of the shaft 25.

[0014] <Configuration of Gearbox 23> As shown in Figure 2, shafts 24 and 25 are connected to the gearbox 23. Figures 3 and 4 are schematic diagrams showing the configuration of the gearbox 23. As shown in Figure 3, when the pulley 31 rotates, the rotational force of the pulley 31 is transmitted to the ratchet gear 23a via shaft 24, and as the ratchet gear 23a rotates, the gear 23b, shaft 23c, gear 23d, gear 23e, shaft 25, and flywheel 22 rotate in sequence. Here, the rotational force transmitted to the flywheel 22 is transmitted to the dynamo of the power generator 21 via shaft 25 as the flywheel 22 rotates. Although the rotational force transmitted to gear 23e is transmitted to the ratchet gear 23f as the gear 23e rotates, the direction of rotation of the ratchet gear 23f is restricted, and the ratchet gear 23f spins freely.

[0015] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, when the pulley 31 rotates in the opposite direction to that shown in Figure 3, the rotational force of the pulley 31 causes the gears 23e, 23d, 23b, and flywheel 22 to rotate sequentially as the ratchet gear 23f rotates. The rotational force transmitted to the flywheel 22 is transmitted to the dynamo of the power generator 21 as the flywheel 22 rotates. Although the rotational force transmitted to gear 23b is transmitted to the ratchet gear 23a as the gear 23b rotates, the direction of rotation of the ratchet gear 23a is restricted, and the ratchet gear 23a spins freely. As a result, the gearbox 23 rotates the shaft 25 in the same direction regardless of the direction of rotation of the pulley 31 (shaft 24).

[0016] <Configuration of Pulleys 31 and 32> As shown in Figure 2, pulley 31 rotates around shaft 24 as the rope 40 moves. Thus, pulley 31 functions as a power converter that converts the vertical movement of the floating body 50 connected to the rope 40 into rotational movement. The rope 40 has a first portion 41 which is the part that is attached to both pulley 31 and pulley 32. That is, the first portion 41 connects pulley 31 and pulley 32. Pulley 32 rotates around shaft 26 as the rope 40 moves. The housing 20 includes a bottom plate 20a. The bottom plate 20a includes holes 20b and 20c. The rope 40 extends outwards (downwards) from the housing 20 through holes 20b and 20c. Below the housing 20, the rope 40 is connected to the floating body 50 and the weight 60. In other words, pulleys 31 and 32 are positioned above the floating body 50. Furthermore, pulley 31 is positioned closer to the quay wall S than pulley 32.

[0017] <Configuration of Beam Member 27> Figure 5 is a perspective view of the wave power generation device 10. Figure 6 is a side view of the wave power generation device 10. Figure 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the rail member 70. Figures 8 and 9 are diagrams to explain the change in position of the floating body 850 and the change in position of the weight 60 due to the movement of the water surface W. Hereafter, the upward direction will be described as the Z1 direction, the downward direction as the Z2 direction, the direction from the shore towards the open sea as the Y1 direction, the direction from the open sea towards the shore as the Y2 direction, the direction to the right when viewed from the open sea as the X1 direction, and the direction to the left when viewed from the open sea as the X2 direction.

[0018] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the wave power generation device 10 includes a plurality of beam members 27. The plurality of beam members 27 are fixed to the upper surface of the quay wall S. The plurality of beam members 27 are fixed to the quay wall S, for example, by anchor bolts. The housing 20 is fixed to the plurality of beam members 27 so as to extend out from the quay wall S toward the open sea and to hang from the plurality of beam members 27.

[0019] <Configuration of the floating body 50 and rail members 70> As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the wave power generation device 10 includes a floating body 50 and a plurality of rail members 70. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the fixing of the floating body 50 to the rail members 70. As shown in Figure 6, the floating body 50 is configured so that at least a portion of it can float on the water surface W. For example, the floating body 50 is formed in the shape of a box with air sealed inside.

[0020] Multiple rail members 70 are fixed to the quay wall S by anchor bolts (not shown). As shown in Figure 7, the rail members 70 are formed in an H shape in plan view. Members 71 (trolleys) that fit into grooves in the rail members 70 are fixed to the quay wall S side of the floating body 50. Members 71 are restricted from moving horizontally, but are not fixed to the rail members 70 in the vertical direction. Members 71 are fixed to the floating body 50. For example, multiple members 71 are fixed to the floating body 50. As a result, the floating body 50 can move vertically while its horizontal movement is restricted.

[0021] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the vertical movement of the floating body 50 due to changes in the height of the water surface W. Starting from the state shown in Figure 6, as waves travel from offshore toward the quay S (wave power generator 10), the height of the water surface W rises. The floating body 50 rises in height due to buoyancy as the water surface W rises. Subsequently, as the height of the water surface W decreases, the floating body 50 lowers in height as the water surface W falls. As a result, the floating body 50 moves up and down due to the waves.

[0022] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 5, the floating body 50 includes an upper surface 52 having an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the open sea from the quay wall S. Even if waves ride up on top of the floating body 50, the upper surface 52 can direct the water toward the open sea. The floating body 50 also includes a lower surface 53 having an inclined surface that slopes upward toward the rail member 70 as it moves away from it. As a result, the floating body 50 is pushed upward by waves traveling from the open sea toward the quay wall S (rail member 70), thereby increasing the amount of movement of the floating body 50. As a result, the amount of power generated by the power generation device 21 can be increased.

[0023] Figure 10 is a plan view of the floating body 50. As shown in Figure 10, the floating body 50 has a shape in which its width decreases from the quay wall S towards the open sea when viewed from above. With this configuration, when waves propagate along the quay wall S, the wave water flows towards the open sea along the shape of the floating body 50, thus preventing a force from being applied to the floating body 50 that would pull it away from the rail member 70.

[0024] <Configuration of the weight 60> As shown in Figure 5, the wave power generation device 10 is equipped with a weight 60. The weight 60 pulls the floating body 50 via pulleys 31 to 34 by applying a load to the rope 40. This prevents slack from occurring in the rope 40. The weight of the weight 60 is, for example, less than half the weight of the floating body 50. However, the weight of the weight 60 is not limited to this and may be designed to be greater than half the weight of the floating body 50 depending on its buoyancy.

[0025] As shown in Figure 6, the weight 60 is positioned vertically between the floating body 50 and the housing 20 (pulleys 31 and 32). This prevents the weight 60 from sinking into the water. The weight 60 is also positioned to move vertically on the rail member 70 on which the floating body 50 is located. The weight 60 is fixed to a member 71 located on the rail member 70. As a result, the weight 60, like the floating body 50 shown in Figure 7, can move vertically on the rail member 70, with horizontal movement restricted by the member 71. The rail member 70 restricts the movement of both the floating body 50 and the weight 60 in directions other than vertical (horizontal). Furthermore, since the floating body 50 and the weight 60 are positioned on the same rail member 70, the number of rail members 70 can be reduced compared to the case where the floating body 50 and the weight 60 are positioned on separate rail members 70.

[0026] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, the weight 60 has an upper surface 62 and a lower surface 63. The upper surface 62 has an inclined surface that slopes with respect to the horizontal plane. For example, the upper surface 62 has a mountain-like shape with a peak in the center. The lower surface 63 also has a mountain-like shape with a peak in the center. As a result, the weight 60 has a tapered shape in both the upward and downward directions when viewed from the side. This reduces the air resistance when the weight 60 moves up and down. As a result, the resistance for the pulley 31 to rotate is reduced, so the amount of electricity generated by the power generator 21 can be increased.

[0027] <Configuration of pulleys 33, 34, and housing 29> As shown in Figure 6, the wave power generation device 10 comprises pulleys 33 and 34 positioned below the floating body 50, and a box-shaped housing 29 that houses pulleys 33 and 34. Pulley 33 is positioned below pulley 31 and is positioned on the quay wall S side relative to pulley 34. The fourth portion 44 of the rope 40 is attached to pulleys 33 and 34. Pulleys 33 and 34 are fixed to the housing 29, and the housing 29 is fixed to the quay wall S. The housing 29 also includes an upper surface 29a having an inclined surface that slopes downward as it moves away from the rail member 70. When waves propagate along the upper surface 29a, the water level W near the floating body 50 tends to rise, thus increasing the amount of movement of the floating body 50. This increases the amount of power generated by the power generation device 21.

[0028] <Configuration of the rope 40> As shown in Figure 6, the rope 40 includes a second portion 42, a third portion 43, a fourth portion 44, and a fifth portion 45. The second portion 42 extends downward from the housing 20 (hole 20b) and is connected to the fourth portion 44. The third portion 43 extends downward from the housing 20 (hole 20c). The third portion 43 also includes an end 47 fixed to a hook 61 located on the upper surface 62 of the weight 60. The fourth portion 44 is the portion of the rope 40 that is attached to the pulleys 33 and 34, and a portion of it is located below the pulleys 33 and 34. The fifth portion 45 extends upward (towards the floating body 50) from the pulley 34. The fifth portion 45 includes an end 46 fixed to a hook 51 located on the lower surface 53 of the floating body 50. As a result, the rope 40 extends downward from the floating body 50 and is positioned (passed through) pulleys 34, 33, 31, and 32, and is connected to the weight 60 (arranged in an S-shape). Therefore, when the floating body 50 rises, the rope 40 moves and the weight 60 rises. Conversely, when the floating body 50 descends, the rope 40 moves and the weight 60 descends. When the rope 40 moves, pulley 31 rotates, and the energy of the rotational motion is converted into electricity by the power generation device 21 (electricity is generated).

[0029] In this way, the movement of the floating body 50 can be transmitted to the power generation device 21 by the movement of the rope 40. Since the rope 40 is string-like, no housing is required to house the rope 40. This prevents the wave power generation device 10 from becoming large even when the distance between the water surface W on which the floating body 50 is located and the power generation device 21 is large. For example, even when the distance between the top surface of the quay S and the water surface W is large, the wave power generation device 10 can be prevented from becoming large. Furthermore, although the distance between the water surface W and the power generation device 21 varies depending on the installation location of the wave power generation device 10, the wave power generation device 10 can be installed in various locations by changing the length of the rope 40 according to the distance between the water surface W and the power generation device 21.

[0030] Here, the speed at which the water level W rises due to waves is lower than the speed at which the water level W falls after the waves have passed. Therefore, if the floating body is suspended from above by a rope, slack will occur in the rope if the water level rises more rapidly than the speed at which the pulley rotates. If the floating body descends during the period of slack, it becomes difficult to convert the vertical motion of the floating body into the rotational motion of the pulley. In contrast, in the first embodiment, when the floating body 50 rises, the rope 40 is pulled upward, so even if the water level W rises rapidly, slack does not occur in the rope 40, and the pulley 31 rotates. As a result, the amount of electricity generated by the power generation device 21 can be increased.

[0031] <Configuration of the Elastic Member 80> As shown in Figure 6, the wave power generation device 10 is equipped with an elastic member 80 that connects the weight 60 and the floating body 50. Even if the position of the floating body 50 changes rapidly, the elastic member 80 can change the position of the weight 60 to follow the movement of the floating body 50. The elastic member 80 is made of, for example, a spring. However, the elastic member 80 is not limited to this and may be made of rubber. As a result, it is possible to prevent slack from occurring in the rope 40 that connects the floating body 50 and the weight 60 via pulleys 31, 32, 33, and 34.

[0032] <Configuration of Box Member 28> As shown in Figure 6, the wave power generation device 10 includes a box member 28 in which a portion of the rail member 70, including the upper end 72, is housed inside, and the bottom surface is open. The housing 20, which houses the power generation device 21, pulley 31, and pulley 32, is positioned above the box member 28. The box member 28 is fixed to the housing 20. The housing 20 and the box member 28 are formed in a continuous manner, and all but the bottom surface of the box member 28 are sealed. In other words, even if water tries to enter from the bottom side of the box member 28, there is no escape route for the air inside the box member 28 and the housing 20, so the water will not enter.

[0033] Figure 9 illustrates the position of the floating body 50 when the water level W is higher than the bottom surface of the box member 28. When relatively large waves occur and the water level W is higher than the bottom surface of the box member 28, as shown in Figure 9, water does not enter the box member 28 and the housing 20 because there is no escape route for the air inside the box member 28 and the housing 20. As a result, the water level Wa inside the box member 28 becomes lower than the water level W. For example, the water level Wa is located near the bottom surface of the box member 28. As a result, even when the floating body 50 and the weight 60 move towards the upper end 72 of the rail member 70, the upward movement of the floating body 50 and the weight 60 can be stopped inside the box member 28. The floating body 50 stops rising near the water level Wa. This prevents the floating body 50 and the weight 60 from colliding with the pulleys 31 and 32.

[0034] <Detailed Configuration of the Flywheel 22 According to the First Embodiment> Figures 75 and 76 show the configuration of the flywheel 22 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 75, the flywheel 22 includes a flywheel body 22a, a flywheel weight 22b, and a spring member 22d (elastic member). The flywheel body 22a has a disc shape and rotates with the shaft 25 as its axis of rotation. The flywheel body 22a is provided with a plurality of guide portions 22aa that extend radially outward from the position (center) where the shaft 25 is located. The guide portions 22aa are configured, for example, as grooves recessed in the thickness direction of the flywheel body 22a. A flywheel weight 22b is arranged in each of the plurality of guide portions 22aa. The "thickness direction" is the direction along the axis of the flywheel 22.

[0035] The flywheel weight portion 22b has a T-shape when viewed in the thickness direction of the flywheel body portion 22a. The flywheel weight portion 22b includes a first portion 22ba positioned in the guide portion 22aa and a second portion 22bb positioned outside the outer circumference 22ab of the flywheel body portion 22a. The flywheel weight portion 22b is arranged to be radially movable within the guide portion 22aa. The spring member 22d is positioned between the center portion 22e and the first portion 22ba of the flywheel body portion 22a and is fixed between the center portion 22e and the first portion 22ba.

[0036] When the rotational speed of the shaft 25 is less than a predetermined number, as shown in Figure 75, the second portion 22bb of the flywheel weight portion 22b is in contact with the outer circumference 22ab of the flywheel body portion 22a. When the rotational speed of the shaft 25 exceeds a predetermined number, as shown in Figure 76, the centrifugal force acting on the flywheel weight portion 22b due to the rotation of the flywheel body portion 22a causes the spring member 22d to stretch, and the flywheel weight portion 22b moves radially outward from the flywheel body portion 22a. This increases the moment of inertia of the flywheel 22. The "predetermined number" can be appropriately designed by selecting the spring member 22d (setting the spring constant) considering the average wave magnitude at the location where the wave power generation device 10 is installed, the load on the dynamo of the power generation device 21, and the mass of the flywheel body portion 22a.

[0037] Furthermore, the flywheel weight portion 22b is positioned at a location where the centrifugal force acting on the flywheel weight portion 22b and the force pulling the flywheel weight portion 22b radially inward by the spring member 22d are balanced. As a result, the more the rotational speed of the flywheel body portion 22a increases, the further radially the flywheel weight portion 22b is positioned, and the more the rotational speed increases, the greater the moment of inertia of the flywheel 22 can be increased. Also, when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 decreases and falls below a predetermined number, the spring member 22d moves (returns) the flywheel weight portion 22b radially inward, as shown in Figure 75. As a result, when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 decreases below a predetermined number, the moment of inertia of the flywheel 22 can be reduced.

[0038] With this configuration, when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 is low, it is easier to change the rotational speed to a higher level. Furthermore, when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 is high and the centrifugal force is large, the flywheel weight portion 22b is positioned radially outward from the flywheel body portion 22a, thereby increasing the moment of inertia of the flywheel 22. As a result, when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 is high, fluctuations in rotational speed can be reduced.

[0039] [First to Eighth Modifications of the First Embodiment] Next, modifications of the first embodiment (first to eighth modifications) will be described. In the following, components identical to those described above in the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted.

[0040] (First Modification) Figure 11 shows the configuration of a wave power generation device 10a according to a first modification of the first embodiment. In this disclosure, an elastic member 80a may be arranged on the rope 40a, as in the wave power generation device 10a according to the first modification shown in Figure 11. For example, the elastic member 80a is arranged in the third portion 43 of the rope 40a (the portion between the pulley 32 and the weight 60). The elastic member 80a is made of, for example, a spring member. Note that the elastic member 80a is not limited to a spring member, but may be made of rubber. This prevents the portion of the rope 40a between the pulley 32 and the weight 60 from slackening.

[0041] (Second Modification) Figure 12 shows the configuration of a wave power generation device 10b according to a second modification of the first embodiment. In this disclosure, an elastic member 80b may be arranged on the rope 40b, as in the wave power generation device 10b according to the second modification shown in Figure 12. For example, the elastic member 80b is arranged on the second portion 42 of the rope 40b (the portion between pulley 31 and pulley 33). The elastic member 80b is made of, for example, a spring member. Note that the elastic member 80b is not limited to a spring member, but may be made of rubber. This prevents the portion of the rope 40b between pulley 31 and pulley 33 from slackening.

[0042] (Third Modification) Figure 13 shows the configuration of a wave power generation device 10c according to a third modification of the first embodiment. In this disclosure, as shown in the wave power generation device 10c according to the third modification in Figure 13, elastic members 80, 80a and 80b may be arranged on the rope 40c. This prevents the rope 40b from slackening.

[0043] (Fourth Modification) Figure 14 shows the configuration of a wave power generation device 10d according to a fourth modification of the first embodiment. In this disclosure, as shown in the wave power generation device 10d according to the fourth modification in Figure 14, a tensioner 80c that presses the third portion 43 of the rope 40c horizontally may be provided. This prevents the rope 40b from slackening.

[0044] (Fifth Modified Example) FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the configuration of a wave power generation device 10e according to a fifth modified example of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, the pulley 31 and the pulley 32 are configured to rotate about separate shafts. However, like the wave power generation device 10e according to the fifth modified example shown in FIG. 15, the pulley 31e and the pulley 32e may be configured to rotate about a common shaft 24e. That is, the shaft 24e passes through the pulley 31e and the pulley 32e. The wave power generation device 10e also includes a rope 40ea connected to the floating body and a rope 40eb connected to the weight. That is, in the fifth modified example, unlike the first embodiment, separate ropes are provided for the pulley 31e and the pulley 32e. The rope 40ea is fixed to the shaft of the pulley 31e. The rope 40eb is fixed to the shaft of the pulley 32e.

[0045] (Sixth Modified Example) FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the configuration of a wave power generation device 10f according to a sixth modified example of the first embodiment. In the fifth modified example, an example in which separate ropes are provided for the pulley 31e and the pulley 32e is shown. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. Like the wave power generation device 10f according to the sixth modified example shown in FIG. 16, a common rope 40f may be provided for the pulley 31e and the pulley 32e. In this case, for example, a through hole 24fa is provided in the shaft 24f that passes through the pulley 31e and the pulley 32e, and the rope 40f is disposed in the through hole 24fa. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the rope 40f from slipping with respect to the pulley 31e and the pulley 32e.

[0046] (7th and 8th Modified Examples) FIG. 17 is a diagram showing the configuration of a wave power generation device 10g according to the 7th modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the configuration of a wave power generation device 10h according to the 8th modified example of the first embodiment. In the first embodiment, an example in which the first portion 41 is constituted by a rope (string-like member) is shown, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, as in the wave power generation device 10g according to the 7th modified example shown in FIG. 17, in the operation transmission member 40g, the first portion 41g applied to the pulleys 31g and 32g is configured in a chain shape (by a chain). Further, the pulleys 31g and 32g are provided with a plurality of teeth that mesh with the first portion 41g, respectively. The pulleys 31g and 32g are sprockets. Note that, in the operation transmission member 40g, the fourth portion 44g applied to the pulleys 33g and 34g may also be configured in a chain shape (by a chain).

[0047] Further, as in the wave power generation device 10h according to the 8th modified example shown in FIG. 18, the operation transmission member 40h is configured in a belt shape (by a belt). The operation transmission member 40h is applied to the pulleys 31h, 32h, 33h, and 34h.

[0048] [Second Embodiment] Next, the configuration of a wave power generation device 210 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 19. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 210 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 19, the wave power generation device 210 includes a pulley 231, a flywheel 222, and a housing 220. The pulley 231 and the flywheel 222 are housed in the housing 220. A cushioning material 220b is disposed at the lower end of the housing 220. The cushioning material 220b is constituted by, for example, a rubber material such as a tire. The pulley 231 is connected to the flywheel 222 and a power generation device (not shown) via a shaft (not shown) and a gearbox. The housing 220 is fixed to, for example, a quay wall.

[0049] As shown in Figure 19, the wave power generation device 210 includes a pulley 232, a rope 240, a floating body 250, a first load member 290, a connecting member 291, a connecting member 292, and a second load member 293. The pulley 232 is positioned below the floating body 250. The pulley 232 is also fixed on the second load member 293. The first load member 290 is positioned below the second load member 293. The connecting member 292 is a string-like or chain-like member that connects the first load member 290 and the second load member 293. The connecting member 291 connects the first load member 290 and the housing 220. One end of the connecting member 291 is fixed to the upper surface of the first load member 290, and the other end of the connecting member 291 is fixed to the bottom surface 220a of the housing 220. Furthermore, the first load member 290 is located on the seabed G. Although the seabed G is given as an example, the wave power generation device 210 may be located in a place other than the sea (for example, a lake or river), and if the wave power generation device 210 is located in a lake or river, the first load member 290 will be located on the lakebed or riverbed.

[0050] The rope 240 includes an end 247 connected to a hook 251 located on the upper surface of the floating body 250. From the end 247, the rope 240 extends upward, through pulley 231, downward, through pulley 232, and upward from pulley 232. The rope 240 includes an end 246 connected to a hook 252 located on the lower surface of the floating body 250. As a result, when the floating body 250 rises as the water level W rises, the hook 252 pulls the rope 240. As the floating body 250 descends as the water level W falls, the hook 251 pulls the rope 240. As a result, unlike the first embodiment, the rope 240 can be moved and the pulley 231 can be rotated without the need for a weight.

[0051] As shown in Figure 19, in the second embodiment, the floating body 250 includes a hole 253a through which a portion of the rope 240 is placed. The hole 253a is a through-hole through which the rope 240 passes in the vertical direction. With this configuration, the rope 240 contacts the inner surface of the hole 253a of the floating body 250, thereby preventing the floating body 250 from moving horizontally. Furthermore, by placing the rope 240 in the hole 253a, the area (horizontal dimension) in which the rope 240 and the floating body 250 are placed can be reduced. As a result, the wave power generation device 210 can be miniaturized.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19, the floating body 250 has a hole 253b in which a part of the connecting member 291 is located. That is, the connecting member 291 penetrates the floating body 250 in the vertical direction through the hole 253b. This allows the floating body 250 to function as a guide for movement (vertical movement) between the pulley 231 and the pulley 232. This prevents the floating body 250 from moving (swaying) in the horizontal direction.

[0053] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19, the floating body 250 has a recess 255 that is recessed inward, and the recess 255 is filled with water. The recess 255 is recessed upward from the bottom surface of the floating body 250. As a result, the load of water is applied to the floating body 250, so the speed at which the floating body 250 descends can be increased. Also, unlike when a metal component (weight) is installed inside the floating body 250, the water surrounding the floating body 250 can be utilized, so the material of the wave power generation device 210 can be reduced.

[0054] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 19, the floating body 250 includes a member 253 having holes 253a and 253b formed therein. Member 253 includes, for example, a hose (including resin or rubber, etc.) that is flexible and deformable. The lower ends 253c and 253d of member 253 (hose) are positioned below the lower end 254 of the edge of the recess 255. This prevents air from entering the recess 255 through holes 253a and 253b even when the water level W falls below the bottom surface of the recess 255 (the highest point). Therefore, the floating body 250 can descend rapidly due to the load of water placed in the recess 255.

[0055] [Third Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation device 310 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 20. Figure 20 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 310 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 20, in the third embodiment, unlike the second embodiment, the wave power generation device 310 is provided with a weight 360 connected to the rope 340.

[0056] As shown in Figure 20, the wave power generator 310 includes a rope 340, a floating body 350, and a weight 360. The rope 340 is arranged across pulleys 231 and 232. The end of the rope 340 that extends downward from pulley 231 is connected to the weight 360. The end of the rope 340 that extends upward from pulley 232 is connected to the floating body 350. The other configurations are the same as in the second embodiment.

[0057] [Modifications 9 to 16 of the Third Embodiment] Next, modifications of the third embodiment (modifications 9 to 16) will be described.

[0058] (9th Modification) Figure 21 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310a according to the 9th modification of the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 21, instead of the connecting member 291 according to the third embodiment, the wave power generation device 310a is provided with a rod member 391a that penetrates the hole 253b. The rod member 391a is fixed to the first load member 290. Unlike the third embodiment, the rod member 391a is not fixed to the housing 220. The rod member 391a is flexible. The rod member 391a is made of, for example, carbon fiber reinforced plastic. However, the rod member 391a is not limited to this and may be made of bamboo or the like.

[0059] (Tenth Modification) Figure 22 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310b according to the tenth modification of the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 22, the wave power generation device 310b according to the tenth modification includes a rod member 391b that penetrates the hole 253b instead of the connecting member 291 according to the third embodiment. The rod member 391b is fixed to the housing 220. Unlike the ninth modification, the rod member 391b is not fixed to the load member 290b. The rod member 391b is flexible. The rod member 391b is made of, for example, carbon fiber reinforced plastic. However, the rod member 391b is not limited to this and may be made of bamboo or the like.

[0060] (11th Modification) Figure 23 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 310c according to the 11th modification of the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 23, the wave power generation device 310c includes a load member 290c. The load member 290c is fixed to the quay wall S. The load member 290c also includes a projection 290ca that protrudes from the quay wall S toward the open sea at a position below the floating body 350. The pulley 232c is fixed to the upper surface of the projection 290ca.

[0061] (Twelfth Modification) Figure 24 shows the configuration of a wave power generation device 310d according to the twelfth modification according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 24, the wave power generation device 310d includes a floating body 350d. The floating body 350d includes a through hole 355d that penetrates from the bottom surface 255d of the recess 255 to the top surface 351d of the floating body 350d, and a plug member 356d that is detachable from the through hole 355d. With the plug member 356d removed from the through hole 355d (shown by a dotted line), water is placed in the recess 255, and then the plug member 356d is placed in the through hole 355d to prevent air from entering the recess 255 (maintaining the state in which water is placed in the recess 255).

[0062] (13th Modification) Figures 25 and 26 show the configuration of the wave power generation device 310e according to the 13th modification of the third embodiment. The wave power generation device 310e according to the 13th modification includes a floating body 350e and a pipe 351e that penetrates the floating body 350e in the vertical direction. In the third embodiment, the recess 255 had a shape that was recessed upward from the bottom surface, but the recess 255e of the floating body 350e according to the 13th modification has a shape that is recessed inward from the side surface 350ea of ​​the floating body 350e. An opening 255ea is provided on the side surface 350ea of ​​the floating body 350e at a position higher than the lowest position (bottom) within the recess 255e. As a result, when the water level W rises above the opening 255ea, water enters the recess 255e. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 26, even when the water level W falls below the opening 255ea, water remains in the recess 255e. As a result, the weight of the water remaining in the recess 255e causes the floating body 350e to move downward.

[0063] (14th Modification) Figure 27 shows the configuration of the floating body 350f according to the 14th modification according to the third embodiment. The floating body 350f has a recess 255f that is recessed inward from the side. The upper surface 255fa of the recess 255f is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane so as to gradually slope inward from the opening 255fb.

[0064] (15th Modification) Figure 28 shows the configuration of the floating body 350g according to the 15th modification of the third embodiment. The floating body 350g has a recess 255g that is recessed inward from the top surface. Water is placed in the recess 255g.

[0065] (16th Modification) Figure 29 shows the configuration of the floating body 350h according to the 16th modification according to the third embodiment. The floating body 350h has a recess 255e. The floating body 350h has a through hole 350ha that penetrates upward from the recess 255e. When water enters the recess 255e, air can be released from the through hole 350ha.

[0066] [Fourth Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation device 510 according to the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 30. Figure 30 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 510 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 30, the wave power generation device 510 of the fourth embodiment is provided with an underwater floating body 560 instead of a weight.

[0067] As shown in Figure 30, the wave power generator 510 includes a buoyant underwater floating body 560 that is placed in the water. A rope 540 is connected to the lower end of the underwater floating body 560. The rope 540 extends downward from the underwater floating body 560, passes through pulleys 34 and 33, extends upward, passes through pulleys 31 and 32, extends downward, and is connected to a hook 551 on the floating body 550. The underwater floating body 560 is positioned between the floating body 550 and the pulley 34 in the vertical direction. A load member 552 is placed inside the floating body 550. Both the floating body 550 and the underwater floating body 560 are fixed to a rail member 70. This allows the underwater floating body 560 to function as a counterweight.

[0068] [Fifth Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation device 610 according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 31 to 33. Figure 31 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 610 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of the wave power generation device 610 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 33 is a diagram showing the configuration of the housing 620 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0069] As shown in Figure 31, the wave power generator 610 of the fifth embodiment includes a cylindrical housing 620 with a closed bottom 620a, a pulley 631, a pulley 633, a pulley 634, a floating body 650, and a weight 660. The pulleys 631, 633, 634, the floating body 650, and the weight 660 are arranged inside the housing 620. The pulley 631 is positioned above the floating body 650. The weight 660 is positioned between the floating body 650 and the pulley 631. The pulleys 633 and 634 are positioned below the floating body 650. The rope 640 is connected to the lower surface of the floating body 650 and is connected to the upper surface of the weight 660 via the pulleys 634, 633, and 631.

[0070] As shown in Figure 32, the floating body 650 includes a plurality of rollers 651 that contact the inner surface of the housing 620. This allows the floating body 650 to move vertically within the housing 620. As shown in Figure 33, the housing 620 is provided with a plurality of holes 621. The plurality of holes 621 allow water to flow between the outside and inside of the housing 620. This causes the floating body 650 to move vertically in response to changes in the water surface W, rotating the pulley 631. The pulley 631 is connected to a power generation device (not shown).

[0071] [Sixth Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation device 710 according to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 34 and 35. Figures 34 and 35 are diagrams showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 710 according to the sixth embodiment. The wave power generation device 710 includes a pulley 731, a rope 740, a floating body 750, and a weight 760. As shown in Figure 35, the floating body 750 is provided with a recess 751 through which the weight 760 can pass in the vertical direction. The rope 740 is attached to the pulley 731, with one end connected to the floating body 750 and the other end connected to the weight 760. This allows the floating body 750 and the weight 760 to be brought close together (overlapped) in the vertical direction, so that the wave power generation device 710 can be made smaller in the vertical direction.

[0072] [Modification of the 6th Embodiment] (17th Modification) Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view of a wave power generation device 710a according to a modification of the 6th embodiment (17th modification). As shown in Figure 36, the wave power generation device 710a includes a floating body 750a and a weight 760a. The floating body 750a is provided with a through hole 751a through which the weight 760a can pass in the vertical direction.

[0073] [Seventh Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation system 800 according to the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 37 and 38. Figure 37 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 810 according to the seventh embodiment. Figure 38 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation system 800 according to the seventh embodiment. As shown in Figure 37, the wave power generation system 800 has a plurality of wave power generation devices 810 arranged in a row along the quay S. The wave power generation device 810 includes a pulley 831, a rope 840, a floating body 850, a weight 860, and a housing 820 fixed to the quay S. The floating body 850 and the weight 860 are arranged alternately along the quay S. The housing 820 includes a first member 821 positioned between the floating body 850 and the quay S, and a second member 822 surrounding the weight 860. The first member 821 is connected to the second member 822 of another adjacent wave power generation device 810. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 38, the housing 820 is open on the seaward side relative to the floating body 850, allowing water to enter. In addition, the second member 822 prevents waves from hitting the weight 860. The second member 822 also has a side that approaches the floating body 850 as it approaches the quay S from the sea. As a result, the housing 820 can protect the weight 860 from waves and collect wave water toward the floating body 850, thereby increasing the amount of movement of the floating body 850. As a result, the amount of power generated by the power generator can be increased while protecting the weight 860 from waves.

[0074] [Modifications of the 7th Embodiment (Modifications 18 to 26)] Next, modifications of the 7th embodiment (Modifications 18 to 26) will be described.

[0075] (18th Modification) Figure 39 shows the configuration of a wave power generation system 800a according to the 18th modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 39, the wave power generation system 800a according to the 18th modification of the 7th embodiment includes a weight housing 820a that houses a weight 860 without housing a floating body 850. The weight housing 820a has a triangular shape in plan view. The weight housing 820a is fixed to the quay wall S. One side 821a of the weight housing 820a is perpendicular to the quay wall S. Another side 822a of the weight housing 820a, different from the side 821a, intersects with the side 821a and the quay wall S.

[0076] (19th Modification) Figure 40 shows the configuration of the wave power generation system 800b according to the 19th modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 40, the wave power generation system 800b according to the 19th modification of the 7th embodiment includes a weight housing 820b that houses a weight 860 without housing a floating body 850. The weight housing 820b has a triangular shape in plan view. The side surface 821b of the weight housing 820b protrudes from the triangular-shaped portion so as to cover at least a part of the floating body 850 on the offshore side. The side surface 821b has an angle θ1 with respect to the quay wall S. The angle θ1 has the relationship 0 degrees < θ1 < 90 degrees. As a result, within the range having an angle θ1 from the quay wall S, waves propagating from offshore (normal waves at the location where the wave power generation system 800b is located) can lift the floating body 850. Furthermore, the side surface 821b prevents waves advancing from offshore (such as waves during typhoons or other emergencies) from advancing toward the floating body 850, outside the range of an angle θ1 from the quay wall S. This prevents the floating body 850 from being damaged by large waves.

[0077] (20th Modification) Figure 41 shows the configuration of the wave power generation system 800c according to the 20th modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 41, the wave power generation system 800c according to the 20th modification of the 7th embodiment includes a weight housing 820c that houses a weight 860 without housing the floating body 850. The weight housing 820c has a triangular shape in plan view. The side surface 821c of the weight housing 820c protrudes from the triangular-shaped portion so as to cover at least a part of the floating body 850 on the offshore side. The side surface 821c has an angle θ2 with respect to the quay wall S. The angle θ2 has the relationship θ2 < θ1 (19th modification). The side surface 821c prevents waves traveling from offshore (waves during emergencies such as typhoons) from traveling toward the floating body 850 outside the range with an angle θ2 from the quay wall S.

[0078] (21st Modification) Figure 42 shows the configuration of a wave power generation system 800d according to the 21st modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 42, the wave power generation system 800d according to the 21st modification of the 7th embodiment includes a weight housing 820d that houses a weight 860 without housing a floating body 850. The weight housing 820d has a triangular shape in plan view. The triangular portion of the weight housing 820d is located on the offshore side of the floating body 850. The side surface 821d of the weight housing 820d is fixed to the quay wall S.

[0079] (22nd Modification) Figure 43 shows the configuration of the wave power generation device 810e according to the 22nd modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 43, the wave power generation device 810e according to the 22nd modification of the 7th embodiment includes a weight housing 820e that houses a weight 860 without housing a floating body 850. The weight housing 820e has a triangular shape in plan view. The weight housing 820e is fixed to the quay wall S. The weight housing 820e has a portion 823e that protrudes below the floating body 850. The portion 823e has buoyancy. The buoyancy can reduce the load on the weight housing 820e.

[0080] (23rd Modification) Figure 44 shows the configuration of a wave power generation system 800f according to the 23rd modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 44, the wave power generation system 800f according to the 23rd modification of the 7th embodiment includes a weight housing 820f that houses a weight 860 without housing a floating body 850. The weight housing 820f is fixed to the quay wall S and has a spiral shape. The weight housing 820f includes a wall portion 822f that gradually moves away from the floating body 850 as it moves from the shore to the open sea, and a wall portion 821f that covers the open sea side of the floating body 850.

[0081] (24th Modification) Figure 45 shows the configuration of a wave power generation system 800g according to the 24th modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 45, the wave power generation system 800g according to the 24th modification of the 7th embodiment includes a housing 820g. The housing 820g comprises a wall portion 821g that gradually moves away from the floating body 850 as it moves from the shore to the open sea, and a wall portion 1822g that covers the open sea side of the floating body 850.

[0082] (25th Modification) Figure 46 shows the configuration of the wave power generation system 800h according to the 25th modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 46, the wave power generation system 800h according to the 25th modification of the 7th embodiment includes a housing 820h. The housing 820h includes wall sections 821h and 822h that gradually move away from the floating body 850 (approach the weight 860) as one moves from the shore towards the open sea.

[0083] (26th Modification) Figure 47 shows the configuration of the wave power generation system 800i according to the 26th modification of the 7th embodiment. As shown in Figure 47, the wave power generation system 800i according to the 26th modification of the 7th embodiment includes a housing 820i. The housing 820i covers the left-right (X1 direction and X2 direction) surfaces of the floating body 850 and includes wall portions 821i and 822i that gradually widen in the left-right direction as they move from the shore towards the open sea.

[0084] [Eighth Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation device 910 according to the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 48 to 50. Figures 48 to 50 are diagrams showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 910 according to the eighth embodiment. As shown in Figure 48, the wave power generation device 910 includes a housing 920 that houses a power generation device and pulleys (not shown), a floating body 950 positioned below the housing 920, and a wave-breaking member 960. The wave-breaking member 960 is fixed to the offshore side of the housing 920. The wave-breaking member 960 also has a portion 961 fixed to the housing 920 and a portion 962 extending below the housing 920. The portion 961 and the portion 962 are connected to each other at their upper ends. As shown in Figure 50, the portion 962 is formed in a plate shape. As a result, even if the water level Wb rises to the height at which the housing 920 is positioned, the wave-breaking member 960 can protect the floating body 950 and the housing 920 from waves by bending and deforming. This protects the power generation device and pulley housed in the housing 920 from the impact of waves. This prevents damage to the wave power generation device 910.

[0085] [Modifications of the 8th Embodiment (Modifications of the 27th and 28th)] Next, modifications of the 8th embodiment (Modifications of the 27th and 28th) will be described. Figure 51 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave-breaking member 960a according to Modification 27 of the 8th embodiment. Figure 52 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave-breaking member 960b according to Modification 28 of the 8th embodiment. As shown in Figure 51, the wave-breaking member 960a includes two members 962a. Also, as shown in Figure 52, the wave-breaking member 960b includes three or more members 962b.

[0086] [Ninth Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation device 1010 according to the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 53. Figure 53 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 1010 according to the ninth embodiment. As shown in Figure 53, the wave power generation device 1010 includes a floating member 1011 fixed to the lower surface of the housing 99. The floating member 1011 is, for example, expanded polystyrene or a box member with air sealed inside. As a result, the wave power generation device 1010 can reduce the load by the floating member 1011.

[0087] [Tenth Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation system 1100 according to the tenth embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 54. Figure 54 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation system 1100 according to the tenth embodiment. As shown in Figure 54, the wave power generation system 1110 has a plurality of wave power generation devices 10 arranged in a row along the quay S.

[0088] [Eleventh Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation system 1200 according to the eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 55 and 56. Figures 55 and 56 are diagrams illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation system 1200 according to the eleventh embodiment. As shown in Figure 55, the wave power generation system 1200 includes a plurality of wave power generation devices 10 arranged in a matrix in plan view. The wave power generation system 1200 includes a support body 1220 having a rectangular shape in plan view and a plurality of support floating bodies 1250. The support floating bodies 1250 are arranged at each of the four corners of the support body 1220. As will be described later, the support body 1220 may be configured to have a shape other than a rectangle in plan view.

[0089] As shown in Figure 56, the support float 1250 has buoyancy and supports the support body 1220 at a height above the water surface W. The housing 20 of the wave power generation device 10 and rail members (not shown) are fixed to the support body 1220. The floating body 50 of the wave power generation device 10 floats on the water surface W. The wave power generation system 1200 includes a load member 1290 placed on the seabed G and a connecting member 1291 that connects the load member 1290 and the support float 1250. The connecting member 1291 connects the load member 1290 and the support float 1250 so that the support float 1250 does not move horizontally due to waves (does not get carried away). In the 11th embodiment, an example is shown in which the wave power generation device 10 according to the first embodiment is placed on the support body 1220, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. That is, any embodiment or any modification of the wave power generation device in the disclosure may be placed on the support body 1220.

[0090] [Modifications of the 11th Embodiment (Modifications 29 to 32)] Next, modifications of the 11th embodiment (Modifications 29 to 32) will be described.

[0091] (29th Modification) Figures 57 and 58 illustrate the configuration of a wave power generation system 1300 according to the 29th modification of the 11th embodiment. As shown in Figure 57, the wave power generation system 1300 comprises a plurality of wave power generation devices 310 (wave power generation devices according to the third embodiment). The plurality of wave power generation devices 310 are fixed to a support 1220. The floating bodies 350 of the wave power generation devices 310 are connected to the floating bodies 350 of adjacent wave power generation devices 310 by connecting members 1351. The connecting members 1351 are made of a material that can be bent and deformed. For example, the connecting members 1351 are made of rubber. As a result, as shown in Figure 58, even if the water surface W is at a different height from one another in the plurality of wave power generation devices 310, the connecting members 1351 can deform, allowing the height position of each of the plurality of floating bodies 350 to follow the height of the water surface W. Furthermore, the multiple connecting members 292 connected to the first load member 290 of the multiple wave power generation devices 310 are connected to each other by connecting members 1390. This prevents the multiple connecting members 292 from moving in the water. Also, even if the force of water is applied to one of the multiple connecting members 292, the connecting members 1390 can distribute the force to the other connecting members 292, thereby preventing damage to the connecting member 292.

[0092] (30th Modification) Figure 59 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a wave power generation system 1300a according to the 30th modification of the 11th embodiment. As shown in Figure 59, the wave power generation system 1300a is equipped with a plurality of load members 290aa. Each of the plurality of load members 290aa is positioned on the seabed G such that it overlaps with a portion of an adjacent load member 290aa. This prevents the load members 290aa from moving on the seabed G.

[0093] (31st Modification) Figure 60 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a wave power generation system 1300b according to the 31st modification of the 11th embodiment. As shown in Figure 60, the wave power generation system 1300b includes a plurality of load members 290ab. Each of the plurality of load members 290ab includes a convex portion 291ab and a concave portion 292ab. The plurality of load members 290ab are arranged such that the convex portion 291ab of an adjacent load member 290ab fits into the concave portion 292ab. This prevents the load members 290ab from moving (dispersing) on ​​the seabed G.

[0094] (32nd Modification) Figure 61 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a wave power generation system 1300c according to the 32nd modification of the 11th embodiment. As shown in Figure 61, the wave power generation system 1300c includes a connecting member 1351c that connects a plurality of floating bodies 350. The connecting member 1351c is a chain-like member. As a result, even if the height position of the water surface W is different for each floating body 350, the connecting member 1351c deforms, so that the height positions of the plurality of floating bodies 350 can be made to follow the height of the water surface W.

[0095] [Twelfth Embodiment] Next, the configuration of the wave power generation device 2010 according to the twelfth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 77 and 78. Figures 77 and 78 are side views showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2010 according to the twelfth embodiment. As shown in Figure 77, the wave power generation device 2010 includes a flywheel 2022. As shown in Figure 77, the flywheel 2022 according to the twelfth embodiment includes a shaft portion 22c which serves as the rotation axis of the flywheel 22. The shaft portion 22c extends in the vertical direction. A bevel gear 2025a is connected to the shaft 25. A bevel gear 22f is connected to the shaft portion 22c. As a result, the flywheel 2022 rotates on a horizontal plane. As shown in Figure 78, in the flywheel 2022 according to the twelfth embodiment, the flywheel weight portion 22b moves radially outward as the flywheel body portion 22a rotates.

[0096] [Third Embodiment] The configuration of the wave power generation device 2110 according to the thirteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 79 to 82. Figures 79 to 82 are diagrams showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2110 according to the thirteenth embodiment. As shown in Figure 79, the wave power generation device 2110 includes a flywheel 2122. As shown in Figure 79, the flywheel 2122 according to the thirteenth embodiment includes a shaft portion 22c which serves as the rotation axis of the flywheel 2122. The shaft portion 22c extends in the vertical direction. The flywheel 2122 includes a flywheel body portion 2122a and a spherical flywheel weight portion 2122b. The flywheel body portion 2122a is provided with a guide portion 2122aa on which the flywheel weight portion 2122b is arranged. The guide portion 2122aa extends to a position radially outward from the outer circumference 2122ab of the flywheel body portion 2122a. The guide section 2122aa has a cylindrical shape, and the flywheel weight section 2122b is configured to roll and move within it.

[0097] As shown in Figure 80, the guide portion 2122aa has a shape in which its height gradually increases radially outward from the shaft portion 22c. For example, the guide portion 2122aa has a shape in which its height gradually increases relative to the disc-shaped base 2122ac of the flywheel body portion 22a. That is, when the flywheel 2122 is not rotating, the flywheel weight portion 2122b is positioned radially inward (near the center) of the flywheel body portion 22a. Then, as shown in Figures 81 and 82, when the flywheel 2122 is rotating, the flywheel weight portion 2122b moves radially outward due to centrifugal force. With this configuration, when the rotational speed of the shaft portion 22c (shaft 25) decreases, the spherical flywheel weight portion 2122b rolls inward radially due to its own load. This makes it possible to reduce the moment of inertia of the flywheel 2122 when the rotational speed of the flywheel body 2122a decreases.

[0098] [Fourteenth Embodiment] The configuration of the wave power generation device 2210 according to the fourteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 83 and 84. Figures 83 and 84 are diagrams showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2210 according to the fourteenth embodiment. As shown in Figure 83, the wave power generation device 2210 includes a flywheel 2222. The flywheel 2222 includes a flywheel body portion 2222a and a flywheel weight portion 2222b made of liquid. The flywheel body portion 2222a is provided with a guide portion 2222aa on which the flywheel weight portion 2222b is arranged. The guide portion 2222aa extends radially outward from the outer circumference 2222ab of the flywheel body portion 2222a. The guide portion 2222aa has a cylindrical shape and is configured so that the flywheel weight portion 2222b flows inside it.

[0099] As shown in Figure 83, the guide portion 2222aa has a shape in which its height gradually increases radially outward from the shaft portion 22c. That is, as shown in Figure 83, when the flywheel 2222 is not rotating, the flywheel weight portion 2222b is positioned radially inward (near the center) of the flywheel body portion 2222a. Then, as shown in Figures 81 and 82, when the flywheel 2222 is rotating, the centrifugal force causes the flywheel weight portion 2222b to move radially outward. With this configuration, when the rotational speed of the shaft portion 22c (shaft 25) decreases, the flywheel weight portion 2222b, which is made of liquid, flows radially inward due to its own load. This makes it possible to reduce the moment of inertia of the flywheel 2222 when the rotational speed of the flywheel body portion 2222a decreases. Various liquids such as oil or water (for example, seawater) can be used as the "liquid".

[0100] [Fifth Embodiment] The configuration of the wave power generation device 2310 according to the fifteenth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 85 and 86. Figures 85 and 86 are diagrams showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2310 according to the fifteenth embodiment. As shown in Figure 85, the wave power generation device 2310 includes a flywheel 2322. The flywheel 2322 includes a flywheel body portion 2322a and a flywheel weight portion 2322b. The flywheel weight portion 2322b includes a shaft 2322ba for rotatably fixing it to the flywheel body portion 2322a. The flywheel weight portion 2322b is formed in an arm shape, and the other end portion is rotated via the shaft 2322ba located at one end portion. The flywheel weight portion 2322b moves between a position where it overlaps more with the flywheel body portion 2322a when viewed in the thickness direction of the flywheel 2322 (see Figure 85) and a position where it is positioned radially outward from the outer circumference 2322ab of the flywheel body portion 2322a (see Figure 86).

[0101] The flywheel 2322 includes a spring member 2322d that connects the tip portion of the flywheel weight portion 2322b (a portion different from the portion where the shaft 2322ba is located) to the flywheel body portion 2322a. As a result, when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 is less than a predetermined number, the flywheel weight portion 2322b is positioned in a location where it largely overlaps with the flywheel body portion 2322a, as shown in Figure 85. When the rotational speed of the shaft 25 exceeds the predetermined number, as shown in Figure 86, the spring member 2322d extends due to the centrifugal force acting on the flywheel weight portion 2322b as the flywheel body portion 2322a rotates, causing the flywheel weight portion 2322b to move radially outward from the flywheel body portion 2322a. This increases the moment of inertia of the flywheel 2322. Furthermore, when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 decreases and falls below a predetermined number, the spring member 2322d moves (returns back to) the flywheel weight portion 2322b radially inward, as shown in Figure 85. This reduces the moment of inertia of the flywheel 2322 when the rotational speed of the shaft 25 falls below a predetermined number.

[0102] [16th Embodiment] Referring to Figure 87, the configuration of the wave power generation device 2410 according to the 16th embodiment will be described. Figure 87 is a diagram showing the configuration of the wave power generation device 2410 according to the 16th embodiment. As shown in Figure 87, the wave power generation device 2310 includes a flywheel 2022, a rotating member 2422, and a shaft 2422a with bevel gears fixed to both ends. The rotating member 2422h has the same configuration as the flywheel 2022. A bevel gear 2422f is fixed to the shaft 2422c of the rotating member 2422h. The shaft 2422a meshes with the bevel gear 22f and the bevel gear 2422f. As a result, the rotating member 2422 rotates in the opposite direction A2 to the direction A1 in which the flywheel body 2022a rotates. With this configuration, the force generated by the rotation of the flywheel 2022 (the force applied to the housing 20, etc.) can be canceled out by the rotating member 2422.

[0103] [Modifications] The embodiments described above are merely examples for implementing the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it is possible to implement the embodiments described above by modifying them as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, each of the embodiments described above (Embodiments 1 to 16) and each of the modifications (Modifications 1 to 32) may be combined in any way, and the modifications shown below may be further combined.

[0104] (1) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, examples were shown in which the upper surface of the housing for the wave power generation device is arranged parallel to the horizontal plane, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The upper surface of the housing may be inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, as shown in the housing 1420 of the 34th modification shown in Figures 62 and 63 and the housing 1420a of the 35th modification shown in Figure 64.

[0105] (2) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, a configuration for opening the housing of the wave power generation device was not shown, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The housing may be configured to be openable for maintenance, as shown in the housing 1420 of the 33rd modification shown in Figures 62 and 63 and the housing 1420b of the 35th modification shown in Figures 65 and 66.

[0106] (33rd Modification) Figures 62 and 63 illustrate the configuration of the housing 1420 according to the 33rd modification. As shown in Figure 62, the housing 1420 includes an upper surface 1421 and a hinge 1422. The upper surface 1421 has a curved surface that slopes gradually downward from the quay wall S toward the open sea. As a result, even if waves ride up onto the quay wall S, the upper surface 1421 can direct them toward the open sea.

[0107] Furthermore, the housing 1420 is fixed to the quay wall S via a column member 1427 fixed to the quay wall S. As shown in Figure 63, the interior of the housing 1420 is opened when the upper surface 1421 rotates around the hinge 1422. In this state, maintenance of the power generation equipment and pulleys located inside the housing 1420 can be performed. The housing 1420 also includes a string member 1423 that limits the range of motion of the upper surface 1421. The string member 1423 connects the upper surface 1421 and the column member 1427.

[0108] (34th Modification) Figure 64 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the containment body 1420a according to the 34th modification. As shown in Figure 64, the containment body 1420a includes an upper surface 1421a. The upper surface 1421a has an inclined surface that slopes gradually downward from the quay wall S toward the open sea. As a result, even if waves run ashore on the quay wall S, the upper surface 1421a can direct them toward the open sea.

[0109] (35th Modification) Figures 65 and 66 illustrate the configuration of the housing 1420b according to the 35th modification. As shown in Figure 65, the housing 1420b includes a frame 1421b fixed to the column member 1427 and a case 1422b. A power generation device and pulleys, not shown, are fixed to the frame 1421b. As shown in Figure 66, the case 1422b is configured to be detachable from the frame 1421b. This allows maintenance inside the housing 1420b to be performed with the case 1422b removed from the frame 1421b.

[0110] (3) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, examples of a rope winding mechanism were not shown, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. As in the wave power generation device 1510 according to the 36th modification shown in Figure 67, a spring 1531a fixed to the pulley 1531 and used to wind up the first rope 1541 may be provided.

[0111] (36th Modification) Figure 67 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation device 1510 according to the 36th modification. As shown in Figure 67, the wave power generation device 1510 includes pulleys 1531 to 1533, a first rope 1541 and rope 1542, a floating body 1550, a spring 1531a fixed to pulley 1531, and a weight 1560. Pulley 1531 is connected to a power generation device (not shown). The spring 1531a winds up the first rope 1541, which is connected to the upper surface of the floating body 1550, when the floating body 1550 rises. Rope 1542 has one end connected to the lower surface of the floating body 1550 and is connected to the upper surface of the weight 1560 via pulleys 1533 and 1532. As a result, when the water level W drops, the load of the weight 1560 causes the floating body 1550 to drop. The placement of the mainspring 1531a eliminates the need to provide a weight to rotate the pulley 1531, thus reducing the number of weights.

[0112] (4) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, examples of providing another pulley above the pulley connected to the power generation device were not shown, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. As in the wave power generation device 1610 according to the 38th modification shown in Figure 68, a pulley 1632 may be further arranged above the pulley 1631.

[0113] (37th Modification) Figure 68 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the wave power generation device 1610 according to the 37th modification. As shown in Figure 68, the wave power generation device 1610 includes pulleys 1631 to 1633, ropes 1641 and 1642, a floating body 1650, and a weight 1660. Pulley 1631 is connected to a power generation device (not shown). Pulley 1632 is positioned above pulley 1631. Rope 1642 connects the floating body 1650 and the weight 1660 via pulleys 1631 and 1633. Rope 1641 also connects the floating body 1650 and the weight 1660 via pulley 1632. As a result, the floating body 1650 and the weight 1660 can only move within the length range of rope 1641. This prevents the floating body 1650 from colliding with the pulley 1633 when the water surface W descends.

[0114] (5) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, examples were shown in which the rope is directly attached to the pulley, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. (Third eighth modification) As shown in the third eighth modification wave power generation device 1710 in Figure 69, an arm member 1731a may be placed between the pulley 1731 and the rope 1740. The rope 1740 connected to the floating body 1750 may be connected to one end of the arm member 1731a connected to the pulley 1731, and a weight 1760 may be connected to the other end.

[0115] (6) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, examples of the shape of the floating body have been shown, but the present disclosure is not limited to those described above. For example, floating bodies according to the 39th to 42nd modifications shown in Figures 70 to 73 may be used in wave power generation devices. (39th Modification) The floating body 1850 according to the 39th modification shown in Figure 70 has an upper surface 1851 that tapers upward. A recess 1852 is formed on the lower surface of the floating body 1850. (40th Modification) The floating body 1850a according to the 40th modification shown in Figure 71 includes a box-shaped main body 1851a and a protruding portion 1852a that protrudes downward from the main body 1851a. The portion surrounded by the protruding portion 1852a functions as a recess in the floating body 1850a where water is placed. (41st Modification) The floating body 1850b according to the 41st modification shown in Figure 72 includes a part of its lower surface 1851a that is inclined with respect to the horizontal plane, and a projection 1852b that protrudes downward from the main body of the floating body 1850b. The portion surrounded by the projection 1852b functions as a recess in the floating body 1850b where water is placed. (42nd Modification) The floating body 1850c according to the 42nd modification shown in Figure 73 includes a central portion 1851c (cylindrical portion), an inclined surface 1852c that gradually slopes outward from the central portion 1851c, and a recess 1853c that is recessed upward.

[0116] (7) In the tenth embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the wave power generation devices were arranged in a line along the quay S, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. Multiple wave power generation devices may be arranged in a matrix shape in plan view, extending from the quay S towards the open sea.

[0117] (8) In the 11th embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the support is formed in a rectangular shape in plan view, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the support may be configured to have a circular shape in plan view, a triangular shape, a polygonal shape (with five or more angles), or a circular or elliptical shape. That is, the multiple wave power generation devices arranged on the support may be arranged in a way that forms a triangle in plan view, a polygonal shape (with five or more angles), or a circular or elliptical shape, in accordance with the shape of the support.

[0118] (9) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, examples were shown in which the power converter and the battery are located outside the wave power generation system, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, at least one of the power converter and the battery may be located inside the wave power generation system.

[0119] (10) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, examples were shown in which the power generation equipment was placed inside the housing, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. That is, the power generation equipment may be placed outside the housing (for example, on a quay).

[0120] (11) In the first embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the wave power generation device is arranged on a rail member fixed to the shore, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the wave power generation device may be arranged on an arm fixed to the shore, or on a vertically extending rail fixed to the seabed.

[0121] (12) In the 11th embodiment (29th modification) described above, an example was shown in which a plurality of wave power generation devices are connected by an elastic connecting member, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The connecting member may be composed of bolts and nuts that do not have elasticity. Alternatively, the plurality of wave power generation devices may be connected by welding without using a connecting member. Also, the plurality of wave power generation devices do not have to be connected to each other.

[0122] (13) In the second embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the entire lower surface of the first load member 290 is in contact with the seabed G, as shown in Figure 19, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. (43rd Modification) For example, as in the wave power generation device 1910 according to the 43rd modification shown in Figure 74, one side 1290aa of the lower surface of the first load member 1290a is in contact with the seabed G, but the other side 1290ab is suspended in the water. As a result, the load of the first load member 1290a is applied to the pulley 232, so that the rope 240 does not slacken via the pulley 232.

[0123] (14) In the first embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the guide portion 22aa is configured in a groove shape, as shown in Figure 75, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The guide portion 22aa may also be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0124] (15) In the first embodiment described above, an example was shown in which a spring member 22d is provided on the flywheel 22 as shown in Figure 75, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. The spring member 22d may be an elastic material such as rubber.

[0125] (16) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, an example of applying the flywheel to a wave power generation device was shown, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the flywheel of the disclosure may be applied to a power generation device other than a wave power generation device, or to a drive device other than a power generation device. In the drive device 2510 according to the 44th modification shown in Figure 88, a flywheel 2522 that rotates together with the shaft 2525 of the drive device 2510 may be provided.

[0126] (17) In the 13th embodiment described above, an example was shown in which the guide portion has a shape in which its height position gradually increases with respect to the disc-shaped base of the flywheel body portion, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the flywheel body portion 2622a in which the base and the guide portion are integrated may be configured as the flywheel 2622 of the wave power generation device 2610 according to the 45th modified example shown in Figure 89.

[0127] (18) In the 14th embodiment described above, an example was shown in which a flywheel weight made of liquid is placed on a radially extending guide portion, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, as in the flywheel 2722 of the wave power generation device 2710 according to the 46th modification shown in Figure 90, a flywheel weight made of liquid 2222b may be placed on a mortar-shaped flywheel body portion 2722a. As a result, when the shaft portion 22c rotates, as shown in Figure 91, the flywheel weight made of liquid 2222b moves to the edge of the mortar-shaped flywheel body portion 2722a, and the moment of inertia of the flywheel 2722 can be increased.

[0128] (19) In the first to sixteenth embodiments described above, an example was shown in which three guide sections were provided for the flywheel, but the disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, two guide sections may be provided, or four or more.

[0129] This disclosure can also be explained as follows:

[0130] The wave power generation device according to the first configuration comprises a floating body, at least a portion of which is capable of floating on the water surface, the floating body moving up and down in accordance with changes in the position of the water surface due to waves, a power conversion unit that converts the up and down motion of the floating body into rotational motion, a power generation unit that converts the rotational motion from the power conversion unit into electricity, and a flywheel disposed in the motion transmission path from the floating body to the power generation unit for maintaining the rotational motion. The flywheel includes a flywheel body that rotates together with a shaft connected to the power conversion unit, and a flywheel weight disposed on the flywheel body. The flywheel body has a moving mechanism that moves the flywheel weight radially outward from the flywheel body by the centrifugal force generated as the flywheel body rotates (first configuration).

[0131] According to the first configuration described above, when the shaft rotation speed is low and the centrifugal force is low, the flywheel weight is positioned radially inward of the flywheel body, thereby reducing the moment of inertia of the flywheel. This makes it easier to change the shaft rotation speed from a low state to a high state. Furthermore, when the shaft rotation speed is high and the centrifugal force is large, the flywheel weight is positioned radially outward of the flywheel body, thereby increasing the moment of inertia of the flywheel. This makes it possible to reduce fluctuations in rotation speed when the shaft rotation speed is high.

[0132] In the first configuration, the flywheel body may have a disc shape. The moving mechanism moves the flywheel weight radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the flywheel body while the flywheel body is rotating (second configuration).

[0133] According to the second configuration described above, the flywheel weight can be moved radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the flywheel body, thereby increasing the moment of inertia of the flywheel.

[0134] In the second configuration, the moving mechanism may include an elastic member that extends radially when the flywheel body is rotating, and is positioned between the flywheel weight and a part of the flywheel body. (Third configuration)

[0135] According to the third configuration described above, when the rotational speed of the flywheel body decreases, the elastic member can return the flywheel weight to the radially inward direction of the flywheel body. When the rotational speed of the flywheel body decreases, the moment of inertia of the flywheel can be reduced.

[0136] In any one of the first to third configurations, the moving mechanism may include a guide portion that extends radially in the flywheel body, the flywheel weight portion moving radially within the guide portion (fourth configuration).

[0137] According to the fourth configuration described above, the guide section allows the flywheel weight to be easily moved along the radial direction of the flywheel body.

[0138] In the fourth configuration, the shaft may be arranged to extend vertically. The flywheel weight portion may have a spherical shape. The guide portion may have a shape in which its height gradually increases outward from the shaft in the radial direction (fifth configuration).

[0139] According to the fifth configuration described above, the spherical flywheel weight rolls and moves within the guide section. Furthermore, since the guide section has a shape in which its height gradually increases radially outward from the shaft, when the rotational speed of the shaft decreases, the spherical flywheel weight rolls and moves radially inward due to its own load. This makes it possible to reduce the moment of inertia of the flywheel when the rotational speed of the flywheel body decreases.

[0140] In the fourth configuration, the shaft may be arranged to extend vertically. The flywheel weight portion may be liquid. The guide portion may have a shape in which its height gradually increases outward from the shaft in the radial direction (sixth configuration).

[0141] According to the sixth configuration described above, the liquid flywheel weight flows and moves within the guide section. Furthermore, since the guide section has a shape in which its height gradually increases radially outward from the shaft, when the rotational speed of the shaft decreases, the liquid flywheel weight moves radially inward due to its own load. This makes it possible to reduce the moment of inertia of the flywheel when the rotational speed of the flywheel body decreases.

[0142] In any one of the first to sixth configurations, the wave power generation device may further include a rotating member that rotates in the opposite direction to the direction in which the flywheel body rotates (seventh configuration).

[0143] According to the seventh configuration described above, the force generated by the rotation of the flywheel body can be canceled out by a rotating member that rotates in the opposite direction to the flywheel body.

[0144] The flywheel according to the eighth configuration comprises a flywheel body that rotates together with the shaft, and a flywheel weight positioned on the flywheel body. The flywheel body has a moving mechanism that moves the flywheel weight radially outward from the flywheel body by the centrifugal force generated as the flywheel body rotates (the eighth configuration).

[0145] According to the eighth configuration described above, it is possible to provide a wave power generation device equipped with a flywheel that suppresses fluctuations in rotational speed when the shaft rotational speed is high, and makes it easy to change the rotational speed to a high state when the shaft rotational speed is low.

[0146] 10: Wave power generation device, 10a: Wave power generation device, 10b: Wave power generation device, 10c: Wave power generation device, 10d: Wave power generation device, 10e: Wave power generation device, 10f: Wave power generation device, 10g: Wave power generation device, 10h: Wave power generation device, 12: Housing, 20: Housing, 20a: Bottom plate, 20b: Hole, 20c: Hole, 21: Power generation device, 22: Flywheel, 22a: Flywheel body, 22aa: Guide part, 22ab: Outer circumference, 22b: Flywheel weight part, 22ba: First part, 22bb: Second part, 22c: Shaft part, 22d: Spring member, 22e: Center part, 22f: Bevel gear , 23: Gearbox, 23a: Ratchet gear, 23b: Gear, 23c: Shaft, 23d: Gear, 23e: Gear, 23f: Ratchet gear, 24: Shaft, 24e: Shaft, 24f: Shaft, 24fa: Through hole, 25: Shaft, 26: Shaft, 27: Beam member, 28: Box member, 29: Housing, 29a: Top surface, 31: Pulley, 31e: Pulley, 31g: Pulley, 31h: Pulley, 32: Pulley, 32e: Pulley, 32g: Pulley, 32h: Pulley, 33: Pulley, 33g: Pulley, 33h: Pulley, 34: Pulley, 34g: Pulley, 34h: Pulley, 40: Rope, 40a: Rope, 40b: Rope, 40c: Rope, 40ea: Rope, 40eb: Rope, 40f: Rope, 40g: Driving transmission member, 40h: Driving transmission member, 41: First part, 41g: First part, 42: Second part, 43: Third part, 44: Fourth part, 44g: Fourth part, 45: Fifth part, 46: End, 47: End, 50: Float, 51: Hook, 52: Top surface, 53: Bottom surface, 60: Weight, 61: Hook, 62: Top surface, 63: Bottom surface, 70: Rail member, 71: Member, 72: Upper end, 80: Elastic member, 80a: Elastic member, 80b: Elastic member, 80c: Tensioner, 99: Housing, 10 0: Wave power generation system, 101: Power conversion device, 102: Equipment, 103: Storage battery, 210: Wave power generation device, 220: Housing, 220a: Bottom surface, 220b: Cushioning material, 222: Flywheel, 231: Pulley, 232: Pulley, 232c: Pulley, 240: Rope, 246: End, 247: End, 250: Floating body, 251: Hook, 252: Hook, 253: Member, 253a: Hole, 253b: Hole, 253c: Lower end, 253d: Lower end, 254: Lower end, 255: Recess, 255d: Bottom surface, 255e: Recess, 255ea: Opening, 255f: Recess, 255fa: Top surface,255fb: Opening, 255g: Recess, 290: First load member, 290aa: Load member, 290ab: Load member, 290b: Load member, 290c: Load member, 290ca: Protrusion, 291: Connecting member, 291ab: Convex part, 292: Connecting member, 292ab: Recess, 293: Second load member, 310: Wave power generation device, 310a: Wave power generation device, 310b: Wave power generation device, 310c: Wave power generation device, 310d: Wave power generation device, 310e: Wave power generation device, 340: Rope, 350: Floating body, 350d: Floating body, 350e: Floating body, 350ea: Side view, 350f: Floating body, 350 g: Floating body, 350h: Floating body, 350ha: Through hole, 351d: Top surface, 351e: Pipe, 355d: Through hole, 356d: Plug member, 360: Weight, 391a: Rod member, 391b: Rod member, 510: Wave power generation device, 540: Rope, 550: Floating body, 551: Hook, 552: Load member, 560: Underwater floating body, 610: Wave power generation device, 620: Housing, 620a: Bottom, 621: Hole, 631: Pulley, 633: Pulley, 634: Pulley, 640: Rope, 650: Floating body, 651: Roller, 660: Weight, 710: Wave power generation device, 710a: Wave power generation device, 731: Pulley, 7 40: Rope, 750: Floating body, 750a: Floating body, 751: Recess, 751a: Through hole, 760: Weight, 760a: Weight, 800: Wave power generation system, 800a: Wave power generation system, 800b: Wave power generation system, 800c: Wave power generation system, 800d: Wave power generation system, 800f: Wave power generation system, 800g: Wave power generation system, 800h: Wave power generation system, 800i: Wave power generation system, 810: Wave power generation device, 810e: Wave power generation device, 820: Housing, 820a: Weight housing, 820b: Weight housing, 820c: Weight housing, 820d: Weight housing, 82 0e: weight housing, 820f: weight housing, 820g: housing, 820h: housing, 820i: housing, 821: first member, 821a: side, 821b: side, 821c: side, 821d: side, 821f: wall section, 821g: wall section, 821h: wall section, 821i: wall section, 822: second member, 822a: side, 822f: wall section, 822h: wall section, 822i: wall section, 823e: part, 831: pulley, 840: rope, 850: floating body, 860: weight, 910: wave power generation device, 920: housing, 950: floating body, 960: wave breaker member, 960a: wave breaker member, 960b: wave breaker member,961: part, 962: part, 962a: member, 962b: member, 1010: wave power generation device, 1011: member, 1100: wave power generation system, 1110: wave power generation system, 1200: wave power generation system, 1220: support, 1250: support float, 1290: load member, 1290a: first load member, 1290aa: one side, 1290ab: other side, 1291: connecting member, 1300: wave power generation system, 1300a: wave power generation system, 1300b: wave power generation system, 1300c: wave power generation system, 1351: connecting member, 1351c: connecting member, 1390 : Connecting member, 1420: Housing body, 1420a: Housing body, 1420b: Housing body, 1421: Top surface, 1421a: Top surface, 1421b: Frame body, 1422: Hinge, 1422b: Case, 1423: String member, 1427: Column member, 1510: Wave power generation device, 1531: Pulley, 1531a: Spring, 1532: Pulley, 1533: Pulley, 1541: First rope, 1542: Rope, 1550: Floating body, 1560: Weight, 1610: Wave power generation device, 1631: Pulley, 1632: Pulley, 1633: Pulley, 1641: Rope, 1642: Rope, 1650: Floating body, 1660: Weight, 1710: Wave power generation device, 1731: Pulley, 1731a: Arm member, 1740: Rope, 1750: Floating body, 1760: Weight, 822g: Wall section, 1850: Floating body, 1850a: Floating body, 1850b: Floating body, 1850c: Floating body, 1851: Top surface, 1851a: Main body, 1851c: Central section, 1852: Recess, 1852a: Protrusion, 1852b: Protrusion, 1852c: Inclined surface, 1853c: Recess, 1910: Wave power generation device, 2010: Wave power generation device, 2022: Flywheel, 2022a: Flywheel main body, 2025a: Bevel gear, 2110: Wave power generation device 2122: Flywheel, 2122a: Flywheel body, 2122aa: Guide section, 2122ab: Outer circumference, 2122ac: Base, 2122b: Flywheel weight section, 2210: Wave power generation device, 2222: Flywheel, 2222a: Flywheel body, 2222aa: Guide section, 2222ab: Outer circumference, 2222b: Flywheel weight section, 2310: Wave power generation device, 2322: Flywheel, 2322a: Flywheel body, 2322ab: Outer circumference, 2322b: Flywheel weight section, 2322ba: Shaft, 2322d: Spring member,2410: Wave power generation device, 2422: Rotating member, 2422a: Shaft, 2422c: Axle, 2422f: Bevel gear, 2422h: Rotating member, 2510: Drive device, 2522: Flywheel, 2525: Shaft, 2610: Wave power generation device, 2622: Flywheel, 2622a: Flywheel body, 2710: Wave power generation device, 2722: Flywheel, 2722a: Flywheel body, S: Quay,

Claims

1. A wave power generation device comprising: a floating body that is at least partially capable of floating on the water surface and moves up and down in response to changes in the water surface position due to waves; a power conversion unit that converts the up and down motion of the floating body into rotational motion; a power generation unit that converts the rotational motion from the power conversion unit into electricity; and a flywheel disposed in the motion transmission path from the floating body to the power generation unit for maintaining the rotational motion, wherein the flywheel includes a flywheel body that rotates together with a shaft connected to the power conversion unit, and a flywheel weight disposed on the flywheel body, and the flywheel body has a moving mechanism that moves the flywheel weight radially outward of the flywheel body by the centrifugal force generated as the flywheel body rotates.

2. The wave power generation device according to claim 1, wherein the flywheel body has a disc shape, and the moving mechanism moves the flywheel weight radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the flywheel body while the flywheel body is rotating.

3. The wave power generation apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the moving mechanism is disposed between the flywheel weight and a part of the flywheel body and includes an elastic member that extends in the radial direction when the flywheel body is rotating.

4. The wave power generation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the moving mechanism includes a guide portion extending radially in the flywheel body portion, the guide portion which allows the flywheel weight portion to move radially inside.

5. The wave power generation device according to claim 4, wherein the shaft is arranged to extend vertically, the flywheel weight portion has a spherical shape, and the guide portion has a shape in which the height position gradually increases toward the radially outward direction from the shaft.

6. The wave power generation device according to claim 4, wherein the shaft is arranged to extend vertically, the flywheel weight portion is a liquid, and the guide portion has a shape in which its height gradually increases toward the radially outward direction from the shaft.

7. The wave power generation device according to claim 1, further comprising a rotating member that rotates in the opposite direction to the direction in which the flywheel body rotates.

8. A flywheel comprising a flywheel body that rotates together with a shaft, and a flywheel weight disposed on the flywheel body, wherein the flywheel body has a moving mechanism that moves the flywheel weight radially outward from the flywheel body by the centrifugal force generated as the flywheel body rotates.

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