Nanofriction Power Generation Device with Spiral Vibrating Balls

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional wave energy power generation devices have large volumes, complex structures, and low conversion efficiencies, leading to environmental pollution and inefficiencies.

Innovation Solution

A nanofriction power generation device with spiral vibrating balls, comprising an inner and outer spiral barrel with corresponding channels, hollow balls, and an electric energy storage device, where nanofriction electric generator films on the balls and channels generate current from wave impacts, stored in the energy storage device, with a buoy body for water suspension.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If traditional wave energy power generation devices are used, then power generation capability is achieved, but the device volume becomes large and structure becomes complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is segmented into multiple independent spiral channels, each containing a hollow ball that operates autonomously. This segmentation allows the system to generate power through multiple simple units rather than one complex mechanism, reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining power generation capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hollow ball is nested within the spiral channel, with the nanofriction electric generator film nested on the surface of the hollow ball and the channel wall. This nested structure maximizes space utilization and eliminates the need for separate housing structures, simplifying the overall device design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Power

If traditional wave energy power generation devices are used, then power generation is achieved, but the conversion efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidconversion efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical power generation systems with a nanofriction-based system. The nanofriction electric generator film converts mechanical friction directly into electrical energy at the nanoscale, eliminating complex mechanical transmission components and significantly improving energy conversion efficiency by reducing mechanical losses

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the scale parameter to the nanometer level by using nanofriction electric generator films. This parameter change enables direct conversion of mechanical energy to electrical energy with minimal loss, dramatically improving conversion efficiency compared to macro-scale mechanical systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Power

If traditional wave energy power generation devices are used, then power generation is achieved, but environmental pollution occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower generation capabilityVSAvoidenvironmental pollution
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

By replacing traditional thermal power generation with nanofriction-based wave energy conversion, the system eliminates combustion processes and associated pollutants. The mechanical friction at the nanoscale directly generates electricity without producing harmful emissions, solving the environmental pollution problem

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 achieves high efficiency, simple structure, and no environmental pollution, suitable for various water bodies with low power generation requirements, and cost-effective manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

a current is generated by a mutual friction between the nanofriction electric generator films on the hollow ball and the corresponding spiral channel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNanofriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS10673356B2Nanofriction power generation device with spiral vibrating balls and buoy body thereof
Publication Date: 2020.06.02 HEFEI UNIV OF TECH
  • US10673356B2 patent drawing
  • US10673356B2 patent drawing
  • US10673356B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A nanofriction power generation device with spiral vibrating balls and a buoy body thereof-includes an inner spiral barrel, an outer spiral barrel sleeved outside the inner spiral barrel, hollow balls between the two spiral barrels, an electric energy storage device contained in the inner spiral barrel, and a buoy barrel for containing the outer spiral barrel. The outer wall of the inner spiral barrel and the inner wall of the outer spiral barrel are respectively provided with first spiral tracks and second spiral tracks extending from one end to the opposite other end. The inner spiral barrel is in the outer spiral barrel, and the first spiral tracks and the second spiral tracks have a one-to-one correspondence and form spiral channels. Nanofriction electric generator films are attached to an outer surface of each hollow ball and an inner wall of each spiral channel.