Oscillating Wave Generator Asymmetry and Reef Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave pool technologies fail to generate waves that radiate uniformly in all directions, leading to energy loss and inefficient wave formation, and lack effective mechanisms for creating consistent wave breaks.
Innovation Solution
The use of vertically oscillating wave generating objects with angled surfaces, driven by mechanisms such as pneumatic or hydraulic rams, to create waves that radiate uniformly, combined with adjustable artificial reefs that angle with the wave direction to induce progressive breaking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional wave generation methods are used, then wave generation is achieved, but waves do not radiate uniformly in all directions causing energy loss
Solution Approach 1:
The wave generating object employs asymmetric geometry with a convex wave generating surface that is angled relative to the direction of oscillation. This asymmetric design causes waves to radiate uniformly in all directions away from the object, eliminating the energy loss associated with waves traveling toward the object or in inconsistent directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The wave generating object features a convex curved surface that radiates waves uniformly in all directions, similar to how a sphere radiates energy equally in all directions. This curved geometry ensures consistent wave propagation patterns and maximizes energy utilization by directing waves away from the generating object in a uniform manner.
2Reliability
If conventional wave pools are used, then waves are generated, but consistent wave breaks are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The wave pool system is divided into distinct functional zones: a wave generation zone with oscillating objects, a transition zone, and a breaking zone with artificial reefs. This segmentation allows waves to form in one area and break consistently in another, providing reliable wave breaks without requiring the entire system to be complex.
Solution Approach 2:
Artificial reefs serve as intermediary structures between the wave generation area and the surfing area. These reefs mediate the wave energy by providing a controlled environment for wave breaking, creating consistent breaks without requiring complex mechanical mechanisms. The reefs act as a passive intermediary that naturally induces wave breaking through their geometric configuration.
3Productivity
If wave generating objects oscillate vertically, then waves are generated, but energy is lost when waves travel toward the object
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric convex surface of the wave generating object creates a directional bias in wave propagation. The geometry is designed so that waves naturally travel away from the object rather than toward it, maximizing the useful wave energy generated and minimizing energy loss from waves that would otherwise travel back toward the generating object.
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
This solution generates waves that radiate uniformly, minimizing energy loss and creating consistent wave breaks, enhancing the surfing experience by optimizing wave formation and breakage patterns.
Implementation Method 1
The wave generating object may be buoyant. The wave generating object may be repeatedly dropped or driven into the body of water and then withdrawn.
Implementation Method 2
The drive mechanism may drive the wave generating object toward the water or further into the water, with buoyancy causing movement in the opposite direction. Alternatively, the drive mechanism may move the wave generating object away from the water or out of the water with gravity being utilised to cause movement in the opposite direction.
Implementation Method 3
the at least one wave generating object has at least one wave generating surface wherein where there is a single wave generating object, the wave extends away from the wave generating object and wherein where there are multiple wave generating objects, the wave generating objects and wave generating surfaces are configured such that substantially all of any waves generated extend away from the wave generating objects
Data Source
AI summary
A wave generating apparatus (100) for generating at least one wave in a surface of a body of water (102) has at least one wave generating object (12, 150) with at least one wave generating surface (13, 152), drive means (108, 110) for causing the wave generating object to oscillate along a path (106), with the wave generating object in contact with the body of water for at least some of the time. When there is a single wave generating object (12, 150), the wave extends away from the wave generating object and when there are multiple wave generating objects (12, 150), the wave generating objects (12, 150) and wave generating surfaces (13, 152) are configured such that substantially all of any waves generated extend away from the wave generating objects.