Wave Energy Pod With Multi-Radius Torque Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies have not efficiently harnessed the vast energy potential of ocean waves, which are capable of generating energy continuously with minimal interruption, due to a lack of scalable and cost-effective systems for energy conversion.
Innovation Solution
A wave energy conversion system comprising a pod rotatably supported by a platform, a multi-radius energy transmission mechanism, and an electrical generating device, where the pod rotates as waves contact a planar surface, transmitting variable torque through a drive gear and driven gear mechanism to generate electricity, with optional hydraulic circuits and ballasting systems for enhanced energy capture.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a wave energy conversion system is developed to harness ocean wave energy, then energy generation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components: a floating platform, wave energy converters (WECs), power take-off (PTO) systems, and electrical generators. Each component performs a specific function and can be independently optimized, manufactured, and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high energy generation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
A multi-radius energy transmission mechanism acts as an intermediary between the wave motion and the electrical generator. This mechanism includes variable radius components that transmit and transform wave energy into rotational motion suitable for electricity generation, decoupling the complex wave dynamics from the generator requirements.
2Productivity
If a multi-radius energy transmission mechanism is used to transmit variable torque, then energy transmission efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy transmission mechanism employs dynamic components with variable radii that automatically adjust their transmission characteristics based on wave conditions. The variable radius elements change their effective radius during operation to optimize torque transmission across different wave amplitudes and frequencies, improving efficiency without requiring complex active control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes parameter changes in the transmission mechanism, specifically varying the effective radius of transmission elements, to adapt to changing wave conditions. This passive parameter adjustment optimizes energy transmission efficiency across a range of operating conditions while avoiding complex active control and manufacturing requirements.
3Power
If the pod is designed to rotate as waves contact the planar surface, then wave energy capture is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The floating platform incorporates stabilizing elements and counterweight mechanisms that balance the rotational motion of the wave energy converters. These counteracting forces and moments maintain platform stability while allowing the WECs to rotate and capture wave energy effectively.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the energy capture function (rotating pod) from the stability function (platform structure). The pod is designed to rotate freely to maximize wave energy capture, while the platform provides a stable base with appropriate degrees of freedom constrained. This functional segmentation allows each component to optimize its performance without compromising the other.
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 converts wave energy into electrical energy by leveraging the variable torque mechanism, allowing for efficient energy extraction based on wave height and period, providing a scalable and cost-effective solution for ocean wave energy harnessing.
Implementation Method 1
converting energy from the wave patterns of a body of water into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
The radius of the drive gear at a location adjacent the driven gear may increase as the drive gear rotates. The radius of the driven gear at a location adjacent the drive gear may decrease as the driven gear rotates, thereby transmitting a variable torque.
Implementation Method 3
The hydraulic circuit may include a hydraulic actuator in mechanical communication with the multi-radius energy transmission mechanism. The hydraulic actuator may be in hydraulic communication with a hydraulic motor.
Implementation Method 4
an electrical generator in mechanical communication therewith to generate electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
A wave energy conversion system is provided including a pod, multi-radius energy transmission mechanism, and an electrical generating device. The pod is rotatably supported by a platform structure and the multi-radius energy transmission mechanism is in mechanical communication with the pod. The multi-radius energy transmission mechanism is configured to transmit a variable torque over a range of motion and is in mechanical communication with the electrical generating device.