Wave Receiver Chambers With Hydraulic Conversion for Surface Wave Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wave energy conversion systems face inefficiencies in converting wave energy into electrical energy, are limited by installation and maintenance costs, and pose risks to marine life and infrastructure, with prior technologies failing to effectively harness the kinetic energy concentrated at the ocean's surface.
Innovation Solution
A wave energy converter apparatus featuring extensible and retractable chambers with a hydraulic system to convert wave motion into hydraulic pressure, which drives a generator for electricity generation, utilizing a floatable unit with flexible corrugated shields and anchored platforms to capture wave energy efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If flotation method is used to harness vertical motion of waves, then wave energy can be converted to electrical energy, but conversion efficiency is low and substantial wave energy is lost
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using traditional flotation methods that convert vertical motion, this invention uses a submerged horizontal axis turbine that directly captures the horizontal kinetic energy of waves. The turbine blades are positioned to be swept by wave motion at the surface, inverting the conventional approach of using buoyant floating structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a hydraulic system where wave motion drives a turbine connected to a hydraulic pump, which pressurizes hydraulic fluid to drive a generator. This hydraulic transmission system efficiently transfers the mechanical energy from wave motion to electrical energy generation.
2Productivity
If linear up-down motion of waves is utilized, then energy output is proportional to surface area, but energy output is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from capturing vertical up-down motion (one dimension) to capturing horizontal wave motion (another dimension). The horizontal axis turbine is positioned to be swept by the horizontal kinetic energy of waves, effectively utilizing a different dimensional aspect of wave energy.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters by using a horizontal axis configuration instead of vertical motion, and by positioning the turbine at a specific depth where horizontal wave kinetic energy is maximized. This parameter change allows for higher energy capture efficiency per unit area.
3Loss of energy
If wave energy systems are installed below the surface of the sea, then surface wave energy concentration is utilized, but risks to marine life and passing boats or ships increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a flexible membrane or shell structure that allows the turbine to move with wave motion while maintaining a protective enclosure. This flexible structure reduces the risk to marine life by allowing passage through or around the turbine components while still capturing energy effectively.
4Productivity
If tidal energy systems with large underwater turbines are installed, then kinetic motion of tides can be captured, but high upfront costs and maintenance costs occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the wave energy conversion system into modular segments: a floating platform, a submerged turbine unit, and a hydraulic generation system. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing, deployment, and maintenance compared to large integrated tidal turbine systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses hydraulic fluid as an intermediary medium to transfer energy from the wave-driven turbine to the generator. This hydraulic intermediary allows for flexible energy transmission and enables the generator to be positioned in a more accessible location for maintenance.
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
Enhances energy conversion efficiency, reduces installation costs, and minimizes environmental impact by effectively harnessing surface wave energy while maintaining system stability and safety.
Implementation Method 1
wave motion energy is transferred to the hydraulic cylinder through the connecting structure due to forward displacement of the first chamber into the second chamber caused by wave motion acting on the front panel. The chamber displacement pressurizes the hydraulic fluid in the hydraulic cylinder into the hydraulic motor to drive the generator
Data Source
AI summary
A wave energy converter apparatus comprising a floatable wave receiver unit with first and second chambers that extend and retract in response to wave motion, a power conversion and generation module disposed on a float unit that floats in the body of water and a connection assembly connecting the wave receiver unit to the power conversion and generation module. The second chamber includes an open front end to hold the first chamber, allowing partial horizontal axial movement. The assembly includes a hydraulic cylinder and a connecting structure that transfer wave motion energy to the cylinder. As the first chamber moves forward into the second chamber, the hydraulic fluid in the cylinder becomes pressurized. The pressurized fluid powers the hydraulic motor, which in turn drives the generator. A flexible corrugated shield surrounds the side panels of both chambers to prevent water entry.