Wave Powered Generator With Segmented Energy Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave-powered electricity generation devices are inefficient due to energy loss from design shortcomings, such as reliance on single generators that only capture energy during wave rise, exposure to corrosion, and inability to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A device with a rotating inner core and sliding elements that capture energy from both wave rise and fall, housed in an enclosed structure with a buoy system that minimizes exposure to harsh conditions and uses a pulley system to maintain constant power generation, incorporating a ratchet mechanism for one-way spinning and adjustable cables to manage water level changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single generator is used to convert wave energy, then the device structure is simpler, but energy capture efficiency is reduced because only part of the wave cycle is utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the wave energy capture function into multiple generators (first generator for wave rise, second generator for wave fall), allowing each generator to specialize in capturing energy from a specific phase of the wave cycle, thereby increasing overall energy capture efficiency while maintaining manageable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes periodic action by coordinating two generators to operate during different phases of the periodic wave cycle - the first generator operates during wave rise and the second during wave fall, ensuring continuous energy capture throughout the entire wave period
2Adaptability or versatility
If the buoy is allowed to float freely with wave motion, then the device can track water level changes, but the buoy drifts away to the extent of its cable, reducing power generation capability
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a counterweight mechanism where the buoy's downward motion during wave fall is balanced and utilized by the second generator, preventing the buoy from drifting away while converting the recovery motion into useful electrical energy, thus maintaining both adaptability and productivity
3Productivity
If the device is exposed to the elements for wave energy capture, then it can interact with wave motion, but it becomes vulnerable to corrosion and damage from sea life and extreme weather
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the vulnerable electrical generation components from the harsh marine environment by placing them inside a protective housing, while only the buoy and cable system remain exposed to wave motion, thereby protecting sensitive components from corrosion and damage while maintaining wave energy capture capability
Solution Approach 2:
The device implements a nested structure where the generators and electrical components are housed within a protective outer housing, creating layers of protection that shield sensitive internal components from direct exposure to corrosive seawater, marine life, and extreme weather conditions
4Ease of operation
If gears, clutches, and flywheels are used to transmit wave motion to the generator, then mechanical energy transmission is achieved, but system efficiency is reduced due to multiple energy conversion stages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical transmission systems (gears, clutches, flywheels) with a direct mechanical-to-electrical conversion system where the buoy's linear motion directly drives the generators through magnetic fields, eliminating multiple mechanical energy conversion stages and associated energy losses
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 device efficiently captures nearly all wave energy, reducing energy loss and extending lifespan by minimizing exposure to environmental damage, while maintaining consistent power generation through both wave cycles and adapting to water level changes.
Implementation Method 1
a permanent magnet, or combination of permanent magnet and electromagnet, or an electromagnet in a coil of electrically conductive wire creating the electromagnet... as the inner core rotates the electromagnetic coils move past the first set of wire coils, generating electricity in the inner core
Implementation Method 2
a buoy coupled to the sliding elements on an external side of the housing... as the buoy rises with a wave, it causes the sliding element to rise along the housing and causes the rotation of the inner core
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of sliding elements coupled to a housing wall and slidable along a least a portion of the housing wall
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates, in part, to a wave powered electrical generator having a core electrically generating component that spins in one direction with the rise and fall of a wave. In certain aspects, it includes an apparatus, system, and method for converting wave energy into electricity. The apparatus includes a housing; an inner core within the housing that rotates in at least one direction; a first set of electrically conductive wire coils coupled to a peripheral wall of the inner core; a second set of electrically conductive wire coils adjacent to the inner core; a plurality of sliding elements coupled to a housing wall and slidable along a least a portion of the housing wall; and a buoy coupled to the sliding elements on an external side of the housing.