Pivoting Float-Arm Tidal Power Generation on Stable Ground
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tidal power generation systems face challenges such as location constraints due to unstable shore grounds and high construction costs, and are vulnerable to repetitive structural stress from severe weather conditions like hurricanes.
Innovation Solution
A tidal energy capture system comprising a base mounted to a ground, a float, and an arm pivotable relative to the base, with optional features like telescopic arms, ballast systems, and underwater turbines to harness tidal energy efficiently, and includes a power generator for converting mechanical motion into electrical power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tidal power generation systems are built in immediate proximity to the sea shore, then the main objective of converting vertical movement of sea tide into electrical power is achieved, but construction engineering expenses increase due to unstable grounds or large and uneven rock formations
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional components: a base structure mounted on stable ground, a floating element that responds to tidal movements, and an arm mechanism connecting them. This segmentation allows the power generation function to be separated from the location constraint, enabling deployment in areas with stable ground away from immediate shoreline while maintaining tidal energy capture capability.
2Reliability
If complex functional configurations are used in sea shore based and offshore based tidal power generation systems, then the main objective of converting tidal movement into power is achieved, but the systems are not well suited to sustain repetitive structural stress from category 4 or 5 sea hurricanes
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic elements including a floating component that moves with tidal cycles and an arm mechanism that can pivot and adjust its configuration. This dynamic design allows the structure to adapt to varying loads and stresses, particularly during hurricane conditions, reducing repetitive structural stress while maintaining power generation functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system can change its operational parameters by adjusting the arm configuration and float position based on environmental conditions. During severe weather, the system can modify its structural parameters to reduce stress exposure, while maintaining power generation capability during normal tidal cycles.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple float and arm configuration is used, then the system is economical and easy to manufacture, but the ability to withstand severe weather and sustain repetitive structural stress is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The float component is designed as a buoyant structure that can flex and deform under wave loads during hurricanes, dissipating energy without requiring heavy reinforcement. This flexible approach maintains manufacturing simplicity while improving weather resistance.
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 is economical, easy to manufacture, and can withstand severe weather by submerging components, providing reliable power generation with reduced structural stress, and allows for multiple energy capture methods.
Implementation Method 1
a float floating in the body of water adjacent the base
Implementation Method 2
a power generator operatively coupled to the arm for providing power when the arm pivots relative to the base
Data Source
AI summary
A tidal energy capture system for powering a power generator by capturing tidal energy in a body of water experiencing tides, comprising: a base mounted to a ground; a float floating in the body of water adjacent the base; and an arm extending between the base and the float and pivotable relative to the base, the arm being connectable to the power generator for powering the power generator when the float is moved up and down relative to the base by the tides.