Wave Energy Converter with Accumulative Spring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave energy converters face high production and maintenance costs, corrosion issues, oil leakage, and inefficiencies in converting wave motion into rotational energy, particularly in high kinetic energy environments like tsunamis.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose wave energy converter utilizing a mechanical interface with an accumulative spring that rotates in one direction only, converting stepped rotations into uniform rotations with minimal energy loss, and includes protective mechanisms for varying wave conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If floats are used in wave energy converters, then wave motion can be captured, but energy is reduced during conversion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mechanical interface with an accumulative spring as an intermediary mechanism between the float and the generator. The spring converts the up-and-down motion of the float into rotational motion, serving as a mediator that enables efficient energy transfer without direct mechanical coupling that would cause energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional direct mechanical coupling systems with a spring-based mechanical interface. This substitution allows the system to convert linear float motion into rotational motion more efficiently, reducing energy losses associated with direct mechanical transmission.
2Power
If traditional mechanical systems are used, then wave energy can be converted, but production and maintenance costs are very high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a simple mechanical interface with an accumulative spring that can be manufactured at competitive prices. The design prioritizes cost-effectiveness with simpler, more affordable components that are easier to manufacture and maintain compared to traditional complex mechanical systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the system by using a spring-based interface instead of traditional rigid mechanical couplings. This parameter change enables the system to achieve power conversion capability while reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
3Power
If conventional converters are used, then wave energy conversion is possible, but corrosion and oil leakage issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex mechanical transmission systems that are prone to corrosion and oil leakage. By using a simplified spring-based mechanical interface, the design removes the sources of corrosion and leakage problems while maintaining the essential energy conversion function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adopts a simpler mechanical interface design that is more resistant to corrosion and oil leakage. The reduced complexity of the mechanical system inherently improves reliability by eliminating numerous potential failure points that could lead to corrosion and leakage issues.
4Use of energy by moving object
If floats are used to capture wave energy, then energy can be converted, but the process is complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and simplifies the mechanical transmission components between the float and generator. By removing complex gear systems and using a direct spring-based interface, the design reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the float's ability to capture wave energy.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical interface with the accumulative spring serves multiple functions simultaneously: it converts linear motion to rotational motion, accumulates energy, and provides mechanical coupling. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying the overall converter system.
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 converter achieves stable rotational energy production with minimal energy loss, maintaining consistent power output and protecting against extreme conditions, suitable for stationary, floating, and propulsion applications.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical interface with an accumulative spring that rotates in one direction only, converting stepped rotations into uniform rotations
Data Source
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AI summary
The multipurpose wave energy converter with accumulative spring enables the conversion of sea and ocean wave energy into stable rotational energy with minimal losses. This converter is provided with multiple surge protections. The accumulator spring of the invention is a torsion or helical spring mounted in a mechanical interface that rotates constantly in one direction only and serves as a rotary accumulator to convert stepped rotations to uniform rotations without energy loss. This invention represents a multi-purpose wave energy converter to stable rotational energy constructed in three different models: - stationary power plant for fixed areas on ocean shores, - floating power plant anchored near or far from the coast, - converter of wave energy into rotational energy for the propulsion of cargo or recreational vessels that do not move at high speed.