Wave Powered Generator Torque Arm Axial Buffer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for harnessing wave energy from ocean waves are inefficient in converting wave motion into usable electric power, particularly in varying weather conditions and require improvements for stability and energy production.
Innovation Solution
A wave-powered electric generator system comprising serially arranged floatation devices with torque arms and a one-way transmission system that converts pivotal motion into rotational movement, utilizing axial force buffers for stability and one-way clutch gears to ensure consistent rotation direction for electricity generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional wave energy conversion technologies are used, then wave motion can be harnessed, but the conversion efficiency into usable electric power is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by utilizing axial force buffers that allow sections of torque arms to move axially relative to each other, optimizing the mechanical parameters for energy extraction. The one-way transmission system also changes the operational parameters by ensuring unidirectional rotation regardless of wave direction, thereby improving conversion efficiency and reducing energy losses.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system operates in varying weather conditions, then wave energy availability increases, but stability and energy production consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic elements including axial force buffers that allow controlled movement between sections, and a one-way transmission system that adapts to varying wave conditions while maintaining stable unidirectional rotation for consistent energy production across different weather conditions.
3Device complexity
If torque arms convert pivotal motion directly to rotation, then the mechanism is simple, but the rotation direction varies with wave motion direction
Solution Approach 1:
The one-way transmission system acts as an intermediary between the torque arms and the generator shaft. It receives pivotal motion from torque arms in either direction and converts it to consistent unidirectional rotation, thereby maintaining both mechanical simplicity and rotation direction consistency.
4Stability of the object's composition
If axial force buffers are added to torque arms, then stability during rough weather improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque arms are segmented into sections that can move axially relative to each other through axial force buffers. This segmentation allows the structure to adapt to rough weather conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
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 system effectively captures wave energy and converts it into electricity, maintaining stability during rough weather conditions and optimizing energy production by ensuring consistent rotation direction, thus enhancing the efficiency of wave energy conversion.
Implementation Method 1
connected to at least one spring for buffering the axial movement of the two sections relative to each other
Implementation Method 2
at least one one-way clutch gear arranged to transmit rotary motion in one direction only
Implementation Method 3
at least three floatation devices arranged serially to each other
Data Source
AI summary
In a wave powered electric generator system, multiple floatation devices are interconnected by torque arms arranged to convert pivotal movement of the torque arms due to up and down movement of the floatation devices, into one-way rotational movement of electric generator shafts, the torque arms being configured to permit expansion and contraction of their lengths when exposed to sudden, severe axial forces.