Deployable AUV Wave Harvester With Adjustable Pendulum Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power generation devices for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) face issues of large size, inflexible deployment, weak adaptability to waves, and limited energy harvesting efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A deployable rotary single-pendulum energy harvesting device with a scissor-type lifting structure and adjustable pendulum length, powered by stepper motors, which includes a deployable lifting platform and an energy harvesting mechanism, allowing for flexible deployment and efficient energy conversion under varying sea states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If resonant power converters or rotary power generation devices are used for AUVs, then power generation capability is improved, but device size increases and deployment flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pendulum length is made adjustable through a deployable scissor mechanism, allowing the device to dynamically adapt its configuration. The pendulum can be extended or retracted based on wave conditions, enabling the same device to operate effectively across different sea states without requiring multiple fixed-size systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The energy harvesting device is divided into modular components: the scissor mechanism for pendulum length adjustment, the pendulum arm with generator, and the base structure. This segmentation allows flexible deployment and compact storage, resolving the contradiction between power generation capability and device size.
2Power
If fixed-size power generation devices are installed on AUVs, then power generation capability is improved, but adaptability to different wave conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The scissor mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the pendulum length in response to varying wave conditions. By controlling the extension or retraction of the scissor arms, the system adapts its natural frequency to match different wave periods, maintaining optimal power generation across diverse sea states.
Solution Approach 2:
The key parameter being changed is the pendulum length, which directly affects the natural frequency of the energy harvesting system. By varying this parameter based on wave conditions, the device maintains high adaptability while preserving strong power generation capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable pendulum length mechanism is added, then adaptability to waves is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scissor mechanism provides a mechanically elegant solution for adjustable pendulum length. The interlocking arms create a self-sustaining structure where extending or retracting the mechanism smoothly varies the pendulum length without requiring complex actuators or control systems at each joint.
Solution Approach 2:
The scissor mechanism combines multiple functions: it serves as both the support structure for the pendulum and the adjustment mechanism itself. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
4Volume of moving object
If compact energy harvesting device is used, then space occupation is reduced, but deployment flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The scissor mechanism allows the pendulum structure to fold compactly when not in use or during storage. The nested arrangement of the scissor arms enables the device to occupy minimal space on the AUV while still providing full deployment flexibility when energy harvesting is required.
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 device provides stable, flexible, and compact energy harvesting with strong wave adaptability, enabling efficient energy collection under different sea conditions while minimizing space occupation.
Implementation Method 1
a scissor-type single-pendulum structure hung at a lower end of the support frame to act as single pendulum
Implementation Method 2
a spindle on an upper end of the energy harvesting mechanism is mounted on a bearing, and is connected to a generator through a second shaft coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A deployable wave energy harvesting device for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) includes a deployable lifting platform and an energy harvesting mechanism. The deployable lifting platform includes two scissor-type lifting structures, which are supported by a double-end threaded rod. A first stepper motor is connected to a threaded rod passing through a threaded hole at a center of a slotted pin shaft, and drives the threaded rod to lift and lower the deployable lifting platform. A spindle on the energy harvesting mechanism is connected to a generator. A support frame is hung at the end of the spindle. A scissor-type single-pendulum structure is hung at the lower end of the support frame. A load is hung on the end of the scissor-type single-pendulum structure. Second and third stepper motors are installed on the support frame to lift and lower the load by rope drive.