Modular Wave Power Structure for Scalable Offshore Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave power systems face challenges such as harsh ocean environments, high installation costs, and complexity in maintenance and scalability, along with susceptibility to corrosion and mechanical stress.
Innovation Solution
A wave power system comprising a basic structure made of interconnected duct sections, which are easily assembled and disassembled, using buoyancy elements for stability, and effectors that convert wave motion into energy, with a robust design allowing for simple maintenance and scalability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wave power systems use traditional fixed structures, then structural stability is maintained, but installation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The basic structure is divided into multiple duct sections that can be connected in series to form the complete wave power system. Each duct section functions as an independent modular unit that can be manufactured, transported, and installed separately, then assembled into the final structure through coupling mechanisms.
2Productivity
If wave power systems use permanent installations, then energy harvesting continuity is improved, but maintenance accessibility and part replacement difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling between duct sections is designed to be releasable rather than permanent, allowing the system to transition between a stable operational state and a maintainable state. This dynamic coupling mechanism enables easy disassembly for maintenance while maintaining structural integrity during operation.
3Device complexity
If wave power systems use fixed-length structures, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to varying wave conditions and scalability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system is composed of standardized duct sections that can be connected in varying numbers to create different total lengths. This segmentation allows the wave power system to be scaled up or down by adding or removing sections, and to be configured to match different wave conditions without requiring completely different designs.
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 provides a cost-effective, robust, and scalable solution for harvesting wave energy with reduced maintenance complexity, capable of adapting to varying wave conditions and extending or reducing output as needed.
Implementation Method 1
A number of buoyancy elements 3a, 3b are connected to hold the basic structure 1 floating at a desired water level
Implementation Method 2
at least one effector movably engaged with the basic structure and adapted for being moved relative to the basic structure by water waves, and an energy harvesting arrangement arranged for harvesting energy from the relative movements
Data Source
AI summary
Herein is disclosed a wave power system for extracting energy from water waves. The wave power system includes a basic structure, at least one effector movably engaged with the basic structure and adapted for being moved relative to the basic structure by water waves, and an energy harvesting arrangement arranged for harvesting energy from the relative movements between the energy collector and the basic structure The basic structure is a plurality of duct sections releasable connected to each other. Conveniently, the wave power system includes several effectors.