Parabolic Wave Energy Generator with Focusing Reflector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ocean wave energy conversion systems suffer from low energy conversion efficiency and limited durability, making them unsuitable for harsh weather conditions and unable to effectively harness maximum wave energy, especially given the associated capital costs.
Innovation Solution
An ocean wave energy generator system utilizing a parabolic concentrator with a parabolic reflector wall and a buoy coupled by a chain, where the buoy's vertical oscillation drives a generator to produce electrical power, amplifying wave energy by focusing waves to a single point for enhanced power conversion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional floating paddle systems are used, then the system can operate in moderate wave conditions, but the energy conversion efficiency is low and the system cannot withstand adverse weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a parabolic (curved) reflector wall instead of flat surfaces to focus wave energy. The parabolic geometry concentrates incident waves at a focal point, amplifying wave height and energy density, thereby improving energy conversion efficiency while maintaining structural integrity in harsh conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional wave motion to three-dimensional wave focusing by using a curved parabolic structure. This dimensional transformation allows waves to be concentrated from a broad area into a focused point, significantly enhancing energy density and conversion efficiency
2Loss of energy
If wave energy systems are designed for maximum power absorption, then energy conversion efficiency improves, but capital costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The parabolic reflector wall provides passive geometric focusing of wave energy without requiring active control systems or complex mechanical components. This passive optical-like approach to wave focusing reduces manufacturing complexity and capital costs while achieving high energy conversion efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The parabolic reflector acts as an intermediary element that passively redirects and focuses wave energy to the buoy without requiring direct mechanical coupling or complex transmission systems, thereby reducing overall system complexity and cost
3Power
If conventional water displacement pumps or accumulators are used, then wave energy can be converted to electrical power, but the overall energy conversion efficiency is relatively low
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts wave energy directly at the surface through the buoy's vertical oscillation, eliminating the need for intermediate water displacement pumps or large accumulators. This direct extraction approach reduces energy losses associated with water transport and storage, improving overall conversion efficiency
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 achieves significant power amplification, increasing energy conversion efficiency by 3 to 4 times, with maximum absorption efficiencies of up to 47% and the capability to absorb 260 kW of power at prototype scale, demonstrating improved durability and economic viability.
Implementation Method 1
the first surface can reflect and focus waves to a single focus point or area
Implementation Method 2
The buoy floats on the surface of the water and is coupled to the generator by a chain or the like
Implementation Method 3
Wave-driven vertical oscillation of the buoy drives the generator to generate electrical power
Data Source
AI summary
An ocean wave energy generator and parabolic concentrator system includes a parabolic reflector wall, which may be in the form of a breakwater wall or the like, a generator adapted for mounting beneath a surface of a body of water, and a buoy. The buoy floats on the surface of the water and is coupled to the generator by a chain or the like. Wave-driven vertical oscillation of the buoy drives the generator to generate electrical power. The wall has opposed first and second surfaces, with the first surface thereof facing the buoy and having a parabolic contour. Because of the parabolic contour of the first surface, the first surface can reflect and focus waves to a single focus point or area. The buoy is positioned at the focus point in order to maximize power conversion.