Adjustable Panel Edge Mechanism for Wave Energy Recovery

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wave energy recovery systems face inefficiencies due to fluctuating ocean conditions, inability to adjust to changing tidal and wave directions, and extreme weather, resulting in low energy capture efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A wave energy recovery unit with a flexible water flow adjustment mechanism at the edges of a reciprocating panel, utilizing actuators and a control system to optimize water flow patterns by adjusting the position and angle of water flow adjustment means, allowing for maximum energy capture across varying ocean conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If fixed panel construction is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to changing ocean conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to changing ocean conditionsVSAvoidstructural complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the panel edges adjustable rather than fixed. The water flow adjustment means can be positioned at different locations along the panel edges and angled at different orientations, allowing the structure to dynamically adapt to varying wave conditions while maintaining a relatively simple overall framework

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the panel edges into multiple adjustable sections with water flow adjustment means that can be independently positioned and angled. This segmentation allows different portions of the panel to be optimized for different flow conditions without requiring complete structural redesign

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If adjustable water flow means are added to all edges, then energy capture efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy capture efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by providing water flow adjustment means at specific locations where they are most needed to optimize energy capture. The adjustment means can be selectively positioned and angled to address local flow patterns at different panel edges, rather than uniformly complicating the entire structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The water flow adjustment means serves multiple functions: it can be positioned at different locations to control water flow, angled to optimize capture efficiency, and potentially reconfigured for different ocean conditions. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering significant productivity improvements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed edge structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different tidal conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to tidal conditionsVSAvoidease of manufacture

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by designing adjustable edge components that can be positioned and angled during installation to match specific tidal and wave conditions at the deployment location. This allows a single manufactured unit to adapt to various environmental conditions without requiring custom manufacturing for each site

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system adapts to changing conditions, ensuring maximum energy capture, easy installation, and protection against stormy weather, with improved efficiency and reliability.

Implementation Method 1

a plate like panel element (2) which is hinged onto the base at the bottom of the sea with the help of support structures (3) and support shafts (5) and which is arranged to make reciprocating motion caused by the kinetic energy of the waves

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWave forces: Wave Power

Implementation Method 2

a water flow adjustment means (4a, 4b, 4c) which is arranged at an edge of the panel element (2) and which is adjustable in its position and/or angle in order to adjust the water flow passing the edge of the panel element (2)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectWater flow adjustment:

Data Source

PatentEP2981704B1Arrangement for controlling water flow at edge of reciprocating panel element of a wave energy recovery unit

Publication Date: 2018.12.26 AW ENERGY

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AI summary

This invention relates to an arrangement for controlling water flow at an edge of a reciprocating panel element (2) of a wave energy recovery unit (1) equipped with at least a control system, in which arrangement the panel element (2) is hinged onto the base at the bottom of the sea with the help of support structures (3) and support shafts (5). The arrangement comprises adjustable water flow adjustment means (4a, 4b, 4c) at least at one edge of the panel element (2).