Contoured-Passage Wave Generator for Scalable Water Bodies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for generating surfable waves in bodies of water are either unable to produce high-quality waves or are economically unviable due to high costs and large land footprints, requiring custom-built facilities and dedicated water bodies.
Innovation Solution
A wave-producing apparatus with a contoured inlet, passage, and outlet that alters water flow using active edges and surfaces, allowing for the generation of various wave forms, including hydraulic jumps and breaking waves, and can be scaled for use in different water bodies without the need for a dedicated facility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional approaches are used to generate waves in water bodies, then wave generation is achieved, but the quality of surfable waves is insufficient and construction costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the geometric parameters of the wave generator structure, specifically using a curved upper surface with specific radius ratios (R1/R2 between 0.5-2.0) and controlled draft depths (5-20% of wavelength), which transforms the flow characteristics to produce high-quality surfable waves without requiring expensive custom facility construction
Solution Approach 2:
The wave generator applies localized geometric features at critical positions - a curved upper surface with specific radii at the crest region, and a controlled draft depth at the submerged portion - which locally modifies the water flow to generate high-quality waves while keeping the overall structure simple and cost-effective
2Reliability
If conventional wave generation facilities are constructed, then wave generation capability is achieved, but large land footprint and dedicated facility requirements increase economic risk
Solution Approach 1:
The wave generator is designed as a universal structure that can be deployed in various water body types (lakes, pools, ponds, fish tanks) without requiring dedicated facility construction. The same basic structure adapts to different scales and water body characteristics, eliminating the need for purpose-built facilities and reducing land footprint requirements
3Productivity
If continuous operation is implemented to reduce footprint, then wave generation consistency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wave generator utilizes the natural kinetic energy of flowing water to produce waves, requiring minimal external energy input. The structure passively converts the energy already present in the water flow into wave motion, allowing continuous operation without significant energy consumption increases
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 apparatus generates high-quality waves that can be adapted for various water bodies, reducing construction costs and increasing economic feasibility by allowing for use in smaller or larger bodies of water, including pools and lakes, and can operate continuously with minimal energy input.
Implementation Method 1
a desirable wave is generated in a body of water by altering a flow of water as it is urged through an apparatus comprised of an inlet, contoured passage, outlet, and outer shell
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for generating a wave in a body of water may include altering a flow of water as it is urged through an inlet, contoured passage, and outlet. For example, a primary flow of water may be altered so that one or more secondary flows are created at angles to the direction of primary flow.