Wave-Powered Device Nesting for Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave-powered devices are difficult to transport, store, and recover due to their complex and bulky configurations.
Innovation Solution
A compact assembly design where the tether and wave-actuated component are nested closely to the float, allowing for a single-unit configuration that can be easily handled and deployed, with features like winches for tether management and a spring system for fin control to prevent overrotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the wave-powered device uses separate components for float, tether, and wave-actuated component, then it can operate effectively in water, but it becomes difficult to transport, store, and handle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nesting by placing the wave-actuated component inside a cavity of the float, and storing the tether inside the wave-actuated component or float cavity. This nested arrangement allows all components to be compactly integrated into a single transportable unit while maintaining the ability to deploy them as separate functional components when in water.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple components (float, wave-actuated component, tether) into a single integrated assembly that can be handled as one unit during transport and storage. The components are designed to fit together closely, creating a compact configuration that simplifies handling while preserving their individual functions when deployed.
2Reliability
If the device components are kept separate for operational functionality, then it can perform its wave-powered function, but it requires more space and is more difficult to store
Solution Approach 1:
The wave-actuated component is nested within a cavity of the float, and the tether is stored within the wave-actuated component or float cavity. This nesting minimizes the overall volume required for storage while ensuring all components are present and functional when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes three-dimensional space efficiently by placing components in different spatial zones - the float provides buoyancy at the top, the wave-actuated component operates in the middle section within a cavity, and the tether extends downward. This vertical arrangement optimizes space utilization.
3Ease of operation
If the tether is kept extended for operational use, then it can connect the float and wave-actuated component, but it increases the risk of damage during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The tether is pre-stored in a protected position inside the wave-actuated component or float cavity before deployment. This preliminary storage protects the tether from damage during transport and handling, and the tether is only extended to its functional position when the device is ready for operation in water.
Solution Approach 2:
The tether is stored in a cushioned or protected environment within the device assembly, shielded from external forces that could cause damage. This beforehand protection ensures the tether remains intact during handling and is only exposed to operational stresses when properly deployed in water.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A
AI summary
A wave-powered water vehicle includes a) a first component which is a float that travels on or near the water surface; b) a second component which is wave actuated and travels below the first component; and c) a means whereby the first component engages the second component and/or the second component engages the first component; wherein the engagement means provides lateral support of one component for the other, and thereby minimizes lateral movement of one against the other when the components are fitted together.