Articulating Wave Wall Panels for Consistent Surfable Waves

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wave generation systems fail to provide consistent and controllable surfable waves, leading to overcrowding and limited access to surfing opportunities, with most rides lasting only a few seconds.

Innovation Solution

An articulating wall wave generation system using a panel actuating assembly with actuators and linkage arms to form a dynamic articulating wall that creates surfable waves by moving panels in a fluid container, allowing for controlled wave formation and consistency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional wave generation systems are used, then wave formation occurs naturally, but wave consistency and controllability are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewave consistencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wave generation wall is divided into multiple independently controllable panels that can be actuated separately. Each panel can be controlled by individual actuators to create precise wave patterns, improving wave consistency while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses movable panels with actuators that can dynamically adjust panel positions and angles in real-time. This dynamic control allows precise manipulation of wave formation parameters, enabling consistent and controllable wave generation while adapting to different surfing conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If natural ocean waves are used, then surfing opportunities are limited to specific locations, but accessibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveaccessibilityVSAvoidwave quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The articulating wall system can be installed in various locations including wave pools and controlled environments, making wave surfing accessible beyond natural ocean locations. The system generates high-quality, consistent waves that replicate ocean conditions, ensuring reliable surfing experience across different installations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Duration of action of moving object

If natural waves are used, then wave duration is short (5-10 seconds), but ride duration cannot be extended

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveride durationVSAvoidwave generation system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses multiple panels that can be actuated in sequence to create continuous wave patterns. By coordinating panel movements, the system sustains waves for extended periods, allowing longer ride durations while managing complexity through synchronized control of multiple components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS20260103909A1Articulating wall wave generation system and related methods
Publication Date: 2026.04.16 KELLY SLATER WAVE CO LLC
  • US20260103909A1 patent drawing
  • US20260103909A1 patent drawing
  • US20260103909A1 patent drawing

AI summary

In an aspect, various embodiments of an articulating wall wave generation system for forming surfable waves is described. The articulating wall wave generation system can include a panel actuating assembly including an actuator. The actuator can include an actuator body and a linkage arm. The articulating wall wave generation system can further include a panel connected to the actuator, and the linkage arm of the actuator can extend between the panel and the actuator body. Activation of the actuator can cause movement of the panel to assist with forming a surfable wave in a fluid volume.