Bottom-Hinged Wave Energy Converter Flap Shape Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bottom-hinged wave energy converters have suboptimal paddle shapes that do not efficiently convert wave energy, and there is a need for a method to optimize these converters for local wave environments to increase mean power production.
Innovation Solution
A bottom-hinged wave energy converter with a flap shape optimized for increased power production, featuring a substantially circular or elliptic flap cross-section that increases between the flap bottom and top, and a method for optimizing the converter's parameters based on local wave statistics to maximize mean power production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional paddle shape is used in the wave energy converter, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but the power production efficiency is suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies spheroidality by designing the flap with a substantially circular or elliptic cross-section that increases between the flap bottom and flap top, forming a curved, three-dimensional shape. This curved geometry optimizes hydrodynamic performance and wave energy conversion efficiency compared to conventional flat or simple paddle shapes, directly addressing the productivity improvement while the manufacturing process remains feasible through standard fabrication techniques.
2Productivity
If the flap cross-section is increased between flap bottom and top to enhance energy transfer, then power production increases, but the structural complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the flap cross-sectional area along its length, creating a gradient from smaller cross-section at the flap bottom to larger cross-section at the flap top. This parameter optimization enhances the flap's ability to capture wave energy while the overall conical geometry maintains manufacturing feasibility through standardized fabrication processes.
3Productivity
If the converter is optimized for local wave environment, then mean power production increases, but the adaptability to different wave conditions decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing specific geometric parameters of the flap (cross-sectional area distribution, curvature radius, length) based on local wave climate characteristics such as dominant wave periods and heights. This allows the converter to be tailored for maximum efficiency in specific wave conditions, with the understanding that different locations would require different parameter optimizations.
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 optimized flap shape and parameter optimization method significantly increase mean power production compared to conventional designs, by enhancing energy transfer from waves to the flap and aligning the converter's eigenfrequency with the local wave climate.
Implementation Method 1
a flap comprising a flap bottom connected to the flap end, and a flap top adapted to be at or near an ocean surface during use
Implementation Method 2
a foundation defining an apparent foundation weight: a power converter connected to the foundation
Data Source
AI summary
A bottom-hinged wave energy converter is provided including a foundation defining an apparent foundation weight; a power converter connected to the foundation, the power converter including a crank; a flap arm including along an arm axis a crank end connected to the crank and a flap end; a flap including a flap bottom connected to the flap end, and a flap top adapted to be at or near an ocean surface during use, the flap including a substantially circular or elliptic flap cross-section in a cross-section plane substantially perpendicular to the arm axis, which flap cross-section is constant between or increases between the flap bottom and the flap top thereby defining a flap buoyancy, wherein the apparent foundation weight being lesser or greater than the flap buoyancy.