Variable-Geometry Wave Energy Converter for Load Shedding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave energy converters (WECs) are costly due to the need for rigid structures that can withstand large wave loads, and they are optimized for only a small subset of ocean wave environments, limiting their energy harvesting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A two-body variable geometry wave energy converter (WEC) is designed, comprising a first body with a rigid body and a variable geometry component, and a second body with a rigid body and a variable geometry component, connected by a tether with a power takeoff component. The device can transition between two positions, altering its volume and shape to optimize energy capture and structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid structures are used to withstand large wave loads, then structural strength is improved, but structural cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static rigid structures to a dynamic two-body system with variable geometry. The converter can change its configuration between extended and retracted states, allowing it to adapt to varying wave conditions. This dynamic capability enables the structure to withstand large wave loads only when necessary (in extended state) while reducing structural costs through a more compact design in calm conditions (in retracted state).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by varying the geometry parameters of the converter bodies. The first and second bodies can change their relative positions and orientations, altering the overall structural parameters to match wave conditions. This allows the same structure to provide high strength when needed while maintaining lower cost through reduced material requirements for extreme load scenarios.
2Device complexity
If rigid body dynamics are used for wave energy harvesting, then energy capture is simplified, but adaptability to different wave environments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by introducing dynamic adaptability through a two-body system that can change its configuration. The converter maintains relative simplicity through standardized components while gaining versatility by adjusting the relative positions, orientations, and coupling of the two bodies to match different wave environments, from calm to rough seas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional two-body system that can operate effectively across multiple wave environments. The same converter can adapt its configuration to harvest energy from various wave conditions, making it a universal solution rather than requiring different designs for different environments.
3Ease of manufacture
If variable geometry components are added to reduce structural costs, then device complexity increases, but energy capture efficiency is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating variable geometry components that allow the converter to change its configuration. The first and second bodies can transition between different spatial arrangements, enabling cost reduction through optimized structural design while maintaining energy capture efficiency through adaptive positioning. The dynamic nature of the system allows it to achieve multiple functions with a single design.
4Productivity
If the converter operates in extreme wave conditions with full structure, then energy capture is maximized, but structural survivability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction through dynamic adaptability. The two-body system can transition between extended configuration (for maximum energy capture in moderate conditions) and retracted configuration (for survivability in extreme conditions). This dynamic response allows the converter to protect itself by reducing its exposure to extreme wave loads while maintaining energy harvesting capability when conditions are favorable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by enabling the converter to anticipate and prepare for extreme wave conditions. The variable geometry components allow the system to pre-position itself in a more survivable configuration before extreme loads occur, reducing the impact of large wave forces rather than merely reacting to them.
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 two-body variable geometry WEC reduces structural costs while enhancing energy capture efficiency by adapting to different wave conditions, and it improves survivability by reducing hydrodynamic loading during extreme seas.
Implementation Method 1
the first variable geometry component is configured to contain a gas... the first valve is configured to allow an inflow of the gas from the third volume to the first volume when the device transitions from the second position to the first position
Implementation Method 2
the second variable geometry component is configured to contain a liquid... the second valve is configured to allow an inflow of the liquid from the fourth volume to the second volume when the device transitions from the second position to the first position
Implementation Method 3
force on at least one of the first body or the second body from wave action when the device is in the first position results in the power takeoff component generating electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
A two-body wave energy converter (WEC) that utilizes components in the two bodies having variable geometry is described. The WEC includes a surface control body which includes a first variable geometry component, and a reaction control body, which includes a second variable geometry component. During operating, the two variable geometry components may be substantially inflated to enable the WEC to generate electrical energy using power-take off (PTO) components or substantially deflated to allow for load shedding or protection from intense elements.