Wave Energy Rotor Eccentric Disk Gravity Conversion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave power generation technologies are prone to damage from wave impacts, have limited and inconsistent energy output, and are difficult to maintain due to seawater exposure, making them inefficient and economically unviable for commercialization.
Innovation Solution
A power generation apparatus using wave energy conversion by gravity, featuring a sealed body with a rotor comprising an eccentric disk and rollers that drive a gear box and power generation motor, enhancing efficiency and usability by leveraging wave undulations to generate electricity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a retractable pump and frame are used to convert wave kinetic energy into electric energy, then wave power generation is achieved, but the apparatus is easily damaged by wave impact and has inconsistent power output
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameters from using retractable pumps and air impellers to using direct water wheel rotation. The water wheel is designed with specific gravitational force application and centrifugal force utilization, changing how wave energy is converted from mechanical pumping to direct rotational motion, thereby improving reliability under wave impact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical system of retractable pumps and frame structures with a simpler water wheel rotation system. The water wheel directly converts wave kinetic energy into rotational motion without requiring fragile retractable mechanisms, substituting a more robust mechanical approach that better withstands wave forces
2Power
If the power generation apparatus is disposed in seawater, then wave energy can be captured, but damaged parts are difficult to repair
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power generation system into a floating platform module and a water wheel generator module. The water wheel and generator are positioned on the floating platform above water level, separating the energy capture function (submerged waves) from the generation function (above-water components), making maintenance accessible while preserving wave energy capture capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a floating platform as an intermediary between the seawater waves and the power generation components. This platform mediates the energy transfer from submerged waves to above-water generators, allowing the generators to be positioned in accessible locations while still capturing wave energy through the water wheel mechanism
3Power
If conventional wave power generation technology is used, then some electric energy is generated, but the output is limited and lacks economic value for commercialization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple energy conversion functions into a single integrated water wheel system. The water wheel simultaneously performs water intake, gravitational force conversion, and rotational drive functions, eliminating energy losses from separate pumping and generation stages, thereby improving overall power generation efficiency and output for commercial viability
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 apparatus improves power generation efficiency and convenience by continuously generating electricity through the rotation of the rotor and gear box, reducing the risk of damage and maintenance challenges, thus offering a more reliable and economically viable solution.
Implementation Method 1
uses the rotor whose eccentric disk is rotated during wave undulation to drive the gear box
Implementation Method 2
The rollers are mounted to the eccentric disk and disposed on the track
Data Source
AI summary
A power generation apparatus (1, 1a) using wave energy conversion by gravity includes a sealed body (10, 10a), a rotor (20, 20a), a gear box (30,30a), a power generation motor (40, 40a), and a pontoon (50, 50a). The rotor (20, 20a), disposed in the sealed body (10, 10a), includes an eccentric disk (21, 21a), a plurality of rollers (22, 22a) and a rotating shaft (23, 23a) penetrating through the eccentric disk (21, 21a). A center of gravity of the eccentric disk (21, 21a) is disposed with an offset to that of the sealed body (10, 10a). The gear box (31) is driven by the rotating shaft (23, 23a). The power generation motor (40, 40a) is driven by the gear box (31) to rotate and generate electric power.