Wave Generator Adjustable Geometry Reduces Structural Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave energy converters face challenges in reliably harnessing wave power over the long term, particularly in highly energetic sea conditions, leading to costly over-engineering due to constant high loads on the energy capturing float.
Innovation Solution
A wave generator with adjustable geometry, featuring a submersible reaction member and energy capturing float, allows for varying the depth and geometry of the system to optimize energy capture in different sea states, using flexible connectors and adjustable buoyancy to manage loads and tune the system to specific sea conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the energy capturing float remains on the sea surface continuously to capture wave energy, then the energy capture capability is improved, but the structural loads in high energy sea conditions increase leading to costly over-engineering
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction member is made movable vertically along the central axis within a specified depth range, allowing the system to dynamically adjust its configuration in response to varying sea conditions. This dynamic adjustment enables the float to capture energy effectively in normal conditions while reducing structural loads in high energy conditions, eliminating the need for costly over-engineering
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the depth parameter of the reaction member along the central axis to optimize performance. By adjusting the vertical position of the reaction member within a specified depth range, the system can adapt to different wave energy levels, capturing optimal energy while managing structural loads appropriately
2Productivity
If the reaction member depth is fixed to optimize energy capture, then the energy conversion efficiency is improved, but the adaptability to different sea states deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reaction member is configured to move vertically along the central axis, transforming the system from a fixed configuration to a dynamic one. This allows the apparatus to adapt its geometry to different sea states while maintaining optimal energy conversion efficiency through controlled adjustment of the reaction member's depth
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable depth mechanism enables the single apparatus to serve multiple functions across different operating conditions. The reaction member can be positioned at different depths along the central axis to optimize performance for various sea states, making the system universally applicable to diverse wave conditions
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 adjustable geometry enables the wave generator to capture optimal energy while reducing structural stress, enhancing reliability and efficiency by adapting to varying wave conditions, thereby improving the long-term viability of wave energy harvesting.
Implementation Method 1
The generator has a net negative buoyancy that is supported by the auxiliary float on the surface of the body of water
Implementation Method 2
The generator has a net positive buoyancy that is resisted by tension of the flexible mooring line(s)
Data Source
AI summary
The generator comprises: at least one energy capturing float (2) which is movable in response to wave motion; a reaction member (1) to be positioned below the energy capturing float; connecting lines (4a, 4b,4c,4d) for connecting the at least one energy capturing float to the reaction member and defining a spacing (D3) between the energy capturing float and the reaction member; energy converters (3a,3b,3c,3d) for converting relative movement between the reaction member and at least one respective energy capturing float to useful energy. The generator includes depth setting means such as adjustable lines (8a,8b) connected to auxiliary floats (7a,7b) or adjustable mooring lines (9a,9b 9c,9d) securing the reaction member to the sea bed B for setting the depth (D1) of the reaction member in the sea.