CA2747296A1 - Wave energy converter - Google Patents
Wave energy converter Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2747296A1 CA2747296A1 CA2747296A CA2747296A CA2747296A1 CA 2747296 A1 CA2747296 A1 CA 2747296A1 CA 2747296 A CA2747296 A CA 2747296A CA 2747296 A CA2747296 A CA 2747296A CA 2747296 A1 CA2747296 A1 CA 2747296A1
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- float
- water
- float member
- arrangement
- wave
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
- F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
- F03B13/12—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
- F03B13/14—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
- F03B13/16—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem"
- F03B13/18—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem" where the other member, i.e. rem is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
- F03B13/1845—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member, i.e. a "wom" and another member, i.e. a reaction member or "rem" where the other member, i.e. rem is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore and the wom slides relative to the rem
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02B—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING
- E02B9/00—Water-power plants; Layout, construction or equipment, methods of, or apparatus for, making same
- E02B9/08—Tide or wave power plants
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
- F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
- F03B13/12—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
- F03B13/14—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
- F03B13/141—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy with a static energy collector
- F03B13/144—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy with a static energy collector which lifts water above sea level
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F03—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS; WIND, SPRING, OR WEIGHT MOTORS; PRODUCING MECHANICAL POWER OR A REACTIVE PROPULSIVE THRUST, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F03B—MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS
- F03B13/00—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates
- F03B13/12—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
- F03B13/14—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
- F03B13/141—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy with a static energy collector
- F03B13/144—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy with a static energy collector which lifts water above sea level
- F03B13/145—Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy with a static energy collector which lifts water above sea level for immediate use in an energy converter
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05B—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO WIND, SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS, TO MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS COVERED BY SUBCLASSES F03B, F03D AND F03G
- F05B2240/00—Components
- F05B2240/90—Mounting on supporting structures or systems
- F05B2240/91—Mounting on supporting structures or systems on a stationary structure
- F05B2240/917—Mounting on supporting structures or systems on a stationary structure attached to cables
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F05—INDEXING SCHEMES RELATING TO ENGINES OR PUMPS IN VARIOUS SUBCLASSES OF CLASSES F01-F04
- F05B—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO WIND, SPRING, WEIGHT, INERTIA OR LIKE MOTORS, TO MACHINES OR ENGINES FOR LIQUIDS COVERED BY SUBCLASSES F03B, F03D AND F03G
- F05B2260/00—Function
- F05B2260/40—Transmission of power
- F05B2260/402—Transmission of power through friction drives
- F05B2260/4023—Transmission of power through friction drives through a friction clutch
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/30—Energy from the sea, e.g. using wave energy or salinity gradient
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Other Liquid Machine Or Engine Such As Wave Power Use (AREA)
Abstract
A wave energy conversion device uses a float member and a support structure for having a water move the float in a vertical direction due to water movement in combination with a lock function for temporarily maintaining the float member in the raised position. The float member is released to fall by gravity into a wave trough. Power extraction is removes energy during the fall of the flat member.
Description
TITLE: WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to wave energy conversion systems and in particular relates to a distributed system having a series of conversion devices that cooperate and energy is extracted and accumulated in a group manner.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It has long been recognized that waves contain a significant amount of energy and this energy is essentially dissipated once the waves reach shore. A
number of wave conversion systems have been proposed based on the displacement of buoyant bodies. For wave conversion systems to be practical, the energy needs to be extracted in a reasonable manner and the cost of building and maintaining the system should not be excessive. Typically the energy extraction system is offshore but at a point where the depth of the water has caused the height of the wave to significantly increase to thereby cause a significant displacement of the buoyant body.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A wave energy extraction system according to the present invention comprises a float member arranged in a body of water to rise with upward movement caused by the motion of the water. A support structure is secured to a support base submerged in the water and provides vertical support and temporary locking of said float member in a raised position without the support of the water. A
release arrangement acts to release the temporary locking of the float member to allow the float to fall by gravity into the water disposed at a lower position. An energy extraction arrangement extracts energy during the fall of the float member.
In an aspect of the invention the support structure includes at least two vertical support members supported by a bottom of the body of water.
In yet a further aspect of the support structure includes three vertical support members disposed in a triangular configuration with each support member positioned interior to a peripheral edge of the float member.
In a further aspect of the invention the wave energy extraction arrangement includes a ballast tank associated with the float member that at least partially fills with water when the float member is floating on the water and includes means to automatically retain the water when supported in the raised position. Preferably the means to automatically retain the water is a check valve arrangement.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of the energy extraction arrangement;
Figure 2 is a side view of the energy extraction arrangement with a float lifted to a raised position;
Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 2 with the raised float temporarily locked on the support;
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to wave energy conversion systems and in particular relates to a distributed system having a series of conversion devices that cooperate and energy is extracted and accumulated in a group manner.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It has long been recognized that waves contain a significant amount of energy and this energy is essentially dissipated once the waves reach shore. A
number of wave conversion systems have been proposed based on the displacement of buoyant bodies. For wave conversion systems to be practical, the energy needs to be extracted in a reasonable manner and the cost of building and maintaining the system should not be excessive. Typically the energy extraction system is offshore but at a point where the depth of the water has caused the height of the wave to significantly increase to thereby cause a significant displacement of the buoyant body.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A wave energy extraction system according to the present invention comprises a float member arranged in a body of water to rise with upward movement caused by the motion of the water. A support structure is secured to a support base submerged in the water and provides vertical support and temporary locking of said float member in a raised position without the support of the water. A
release arrangement acts to release the temporary locking of the float member to allow the float to fall by gravity into the water disposed at a lower position. An energy extraction arrangement extracts energy during the fall of the float member.
In an aspect of the invention the support structure includes at least two vertical support members supported by a bottom of the body of water.
In yet a further aspect of the support structure includes three vertical support members disposed in a triangular configuration with each support member positioned interior to a peripheral edge of the float member.
In a further aspect of the invention the wave energy extraction arrangement includes a ballast tank associated with the float member that at least partially fills with water when the float member is floating on the water and includes means to automatically retain the water when supported in the raised position. Preferably the means to automatically retain the water is a check valve arrangement.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of the energy extraction arrangement;
Figure 2 is a side view of the energy extraction arrangement with a float lifted to a raised position;
Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 2 with the raised float temporarily locked on the support;
Figure 4 shows release of the float for energy extraction;
Figure 5 schematically illustrates one arrangement for energy extraction that includes raising of a weight;
Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 5 with the weight allowing a cable to pass therethrough;
Figure 7 is a partial schematic view showing a series of energy extraction devices;
Figure 8 is a partial schematic view showing one arrangement for the engagement and release of the weight;
Figure 9 is a schematic view of an alternate three support energy extraction arrangement; and Figures 10 and 11 are schematic views showing a variation of the system that includes the filling and release of a ballast chamber.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
An energy extraction arrangement is generally shown as 2 in Figure 1 and includes a vertical member 4 that is rigidly secured to the bottom support layer 6.
The vertical member 4 includes a relatively heavy float member 8 that moves upwardly on the vertical member 4 as the crest of the wave passes the vertical member. As can be appreciated the float 8 achieves the maximum vertical displacement generally when the crest 10 of the wave passes beneath the float. This arrangement is shown in Figure 2 where the crest 10 is immediately below and supports the float 8.
The exact height of the float 8 on the crest 10 will be determined by the effective buoyancy of the float 8 and the size of the supporting wave.
Figure 3 illustrates the significant difference between the proposed structure as discussed herein and the prior art. In contrast to the typical approach where the float member 8 is continuously supported by the wave, the present structure effectively allows the float member 8 to move upwardly on the vertical member 4 as the crest of a wave passes beneath the float. The float member 5 8 is then maintained at this vertical position on the post and supported by the post. The float member 8 is essentially maintained in a raised position on the vertical member 4 until such time as the trough 12 is generally below or about to be below the vertical member 10 4. At this time, it is desired to effectively release the float member 8 and allow it to move downwardly into the trough of the wave and effectively bottom out in the bottom of the trough 12. This position is shown in Figure 4. The exact timing preferably maximizes the displacement so the float member bottoms out in the trough.
In order to extract energy during movement of the float 8 downwardly, a mechanism is required to effectively change the potential energy of the float member 8 and the subsequent kinetic energy of the float member 8 as it moves downwardly into the trough 12. Such an extraction arrangement is shown in Figure 5. The vertical member 4 has been provided with a counterweight 20 that moves upwardly on the vertical member 4 as the float 8 passes downwardly along the length of the vertical member into the trough 12.
The float member 8 includes a cable 22 attached to the float at position 24 and the cable 22 passes over pulleys 26 and 28. These pulleys guide the cable 22 to the counterweight 20. The counterweight 20 includes a passage 30 extending therethrough such that the cable 22 is able to freely pass through the counterweight. The cable 22 also includes a biasing weight 34 at the end thereof. As shown in Figure 5 the movement of the float member 8 downwardly into the trough 12 from its fixed position corresponding to the height of the crest 10 has caused the counterweight 20 to move from the position shown as 23 to position 25 shown in Figure 5. In the embodiment shown this is a one to one relationship and as such the counterweight 20 is somewhat lighter than the float member 8 to thereby cause the float to pull the counterweight up as it is released as the trough 12 passes therebelow.
As shown in Figure 6, the next crest 10a has now moved towards the float member 8 and caused an increase in the vertical position thereof. This has caused the cable 22 to pass over the pullies 26 and 28 and the further weight 34 has moved downwardly towards the float member 8. The counterweight 20 is maintained at its raised position on the post typically by a one way clutch type arrangement or other suitable locking arrangement.
As the crest 10a moves beneath the float member 8 any slack in the cable 22 is taken up due to the gravitational force of the additional weight 34. As can be appreciated, when the next trough 12a is beneath the raised float member 8, the float member 8 is released (as would be the case in Figure 3) to move downwardly and into the trough 12a and essentially forms the power stroke. This downward movement of the float member 8 causes the cable 22 to pull the counterweight 20 to a further raised position on the post. At a different point the counterweight 20 will be allowed to move downwardly on the vertical member 4 and will drive a suitable power extraction mechanism. This may involve a rotating member or a gas pressurizing arrangement, or other arrangements to convert the potential energy of the counterweight 20 into a desired power output.
Figure 8 shows a simple ratchet arrangement 40 provided on the counterweight 20 that pivots outwardly as shown in the dashed lines of Figure 8 when there is a release of tension in the cable 22. The ratchet 40 moves to the locked position of Figure 8 once movement of the cable 22 in a downward direction is stopped. Any movement of the cable vertically as will occur when the float member 8 moves downwardly into a trough causes the ratchet 40 to move to the locked position and thus the counterweight 20 is moved upwardly and accumulates energy.
Figure 7 shows a series of these wave energy extraction devices 2 where the extraction devices 2 are spaced at different distances from shore and some of these devices will experience a particular wave or set of waves before the wave moves past the devices that are closer to shore. One aspect of this distribution arrangement is to have a series of these extraction devices which are essentially leading devices such that the leading devices can be of assistance in computing the period or frequency of the waves. This is important in the present arrangement as it is desired to release the lock on the float member 8 when a trough is effectively passing by or about to pass by the vertical member. In this way the float member 8 can be released and move downwardly into the bottom of the trough and thereby achieve the maximum stroke of the system. By spacing the devices at different positions in the direction of wave movement the lead devices can provide frequency or period information or the devices can cooperate to allow the calculation of the period or frequency in a relatively precise manner. It can also be appreciated that the average vertical movement of the float member 8 can be monitored as well as the effective time for a full cycle.
This provides similar information and will allow for timing of the release of the float members such that an effective stroke length is realized. Other arrangements for calculating the timing of the release of the float member 8 can also be used.
Figure 5 schematically illustrates one arrangement for energy extraction that includes raising of a weight;
Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 5 with the weight allowing a cable to pass therethrough;
Figure 7 is a partial schematic view showing a series of energy extraction devices;
Figure 8 is a partial schematic view showing one arrangement for the engagement and release of the weight;
Figure 9 is a schematic view of an alternate three support energy extraction arrangement; and Figures 10 and 11 are schematic views showing a variation of the system that includes the filling and release of a ballast chamber.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
An energy extraction arrangement is generally shown as 2 in Figure 1 and includes a vertical member 4 that is rigidly secured to the bottom support layer 6.
The vertical member 4 includes a relatively heavy float member 8 that moves upwardly on the vertical member 4 as the crest of the wave passes the vertical member. As can be appreciated the float 8 achieves the maximum vertical displacement generally when the crest 10 of the wave passes beneath the float. This arrangement is shown in Figure 2 where the crest 10 is immediately below and supports the float 8.
The exact height of the float 8 on the crest 10 will be determined by the effective buoyancy of the float 8 and the size of the supporting wave.
Figure 3 illustrates the significant difference between the proposed structure as discussed herein and the prior art. In contrast to the typical approach where the float member 8 is continuously supported by the wave, the present structure effectively allows the float member 8 to move upwardly on the vertical member 4 as the crest of a wave passes beneath the float. The float member 5 8 is then maintained at this vertical position on the post and supported by the post. The float member 8 is essentially maintained in a raised position on the vertical member 4 until such time as the trough 12 is generally below or about to be below the vertical member 10 4. At this time, it is desired to effectively release the float member 8 and allow it to move downwardly into the trough of the wave and effectively bottom out in the bottom of the trough 12. This position is shown in Figure 4. The exact timing preferably maximizes the displacement so the float member bottoms out in the trough.
In order to extract energy during movement of the float 8 downwardly, a mechanism is required to effectively change the potential energy of the float member 8 and the subsequent kinetic energy of the float member 8 as it moves downwardly into the trough 12. Such an extraction arrangement is shown in Figure 5. The vertical member 4 has been provided with a counterweight 20 that moves upwardly on the vertical member 4 as the float 8 passes downwardly along the length of the vertical member into the trough 12.
The float member 8 includes a cable 22 attached to the float at position 24 and the cable 22 passes over pulleys 26 and 28. These pulleys guide the cable 22 to the counterweight 20. The counterweight 20 includes a passage 30 extending therethrough such that the cable 22 is able to freely pass through the counterweight. The cable 22 also includes a biasing weight 34 at the end thereof. As shown in Figure 5 the movement of the float member 8 downwardly into the trough 12 from its fixed position corresponding to the height of the crest 10 has caused the counterweight 20 to move from the position shown as 23 to position 25 shown in Figure 5. In the embodiment shown this is a one to one relationship and as such the counterweight 20 is somewhat lighter than the float member 8 to thereby cause the float to pull the counterweight up as it is released as the trough 12 passes therebelow.
As shown in Figure 6, the next crest 10a has now moved towards the float member 8 and caused an increase in the vertical position thereof. This has caused the cable 22 to pass over the pullies 26 and 28 and the further weight 34 has moved downwardly towards the float member 8. The counterweight 20 is maintained at its raised position on the post typically by a one way clutch type arrangement or other suitable locking arrangement.
As the crest 10a moves beneath the float member 8 any slack in the cable 22 is taken up due to the gravitational force of the additional weight 34. As can be appreciated, when the next trough 12a is beneath the raised float member 8, the float member 8 is released (as would be the case in Figure 3) to move downwardly and into the trough 12a and essentially forms the power stroke. This downward movement of the float member 8 causes the cable 22 to pull the counterweight 20 to a further raised position on the post. At a different point the counterweight 20 will be allowed to move downwardly on the vertical member 4 and will drive a suitable power extraction mechanism. This may involve a rotating member or a gas pressurizing arrangement, or other arrangements to convert the potential energy of the counterweight 20 into a desired power output.
Figure 8 shows a simple ratchet arrangement 40 provided on the counterweight 20 that pivots outwardly as shown in the dashed lines of Figure 8 when there is a release of tension in the cable 22. The ratchet 40 moves to the locked position of Figure 8 once movement of the cable 22 in a downward direction is stopped. Any movement of the cable vertically as will occur when the float member 8 moves downwardly into a trough causes the ratchet 40 to move to the locked position and thus the counterweight 20 is moved upwardly and accumulates energy.
Figure 7 shows a series of these wave energy extraction devices 2 where the extraction devices 2 are spaced at different distances from shore and some of these devices will experience a particular wave or set of waves before the wave moves past the devices that are closer to shore. One aspect of this distribution arrangement is to have a series of these extraction devices which are essentially leading devices such that the leading devices can be of assistance in computing the period or frequency of the waves. This is important in the present arrangement as it is desired to release the lock on the float member 8 when a trough is effectively passing by or about to pass by the vertical member. In this way the float member 8 can be released and move downwardly into the bottom of the trough and thereby achieve the maximum stroke of the system. By spacing the devices at different positions in the direction of wave movement the lead devices can provide frequency or period information or the devices can cooperate to allow the calculation of the period or frequency in a relatively precise manner. It can also be appreciated that the average vertical movement of the float member 8 can be monitored as well as the effective time for a full cycle.
This provides similar information and will allow for timing of the release of the float members such that an effective stroke length is realized. Other arrangements for calculating the timing of the release of the float member 8 can also be used.
The present system effectively shows a 1 to 1 type relationship between the float member 8 and the counterweight 20. It is also possible to use a heavier counterweight and an appropriate gear train arrangement or ratio arrangement such that the counterweight can be heavier and the distance that the counterweight is raised generally decreased by this ratio. In this way there may be some loss in the possible potential energy that can be extracted by the counterweight 20 due to the release in movement of the float member 8 downwardly on the vertical member. As can be appreciated the counterweight cannot be exerting a force greater than the gravitational force on the float member 8 as the member would not move downwardly when released. Thus there will be an effective balance or determination between the necessary efficiency rate regarding the extraction of energy and accumulating that energy as potential energy in the counterweight's position on the vertical member 4.
From the above it can be appreciated that the energy conversion either as potential energy in a counterweight or in a suitable compression stroke due to movement of the float member 8 can be accomplished in a shorter period of time where the maximum velocity of the buoyant member is higher than would be the case if the buoyant member merely was allowed to rise and fall with the crests and troughs of the wave. It is believed this arrangement of locking and releasing of the buoyant member is more effective in both the accumulation and the extraction of energy.
In Figure 9 a three post system 100 is shown with a triangular float 108. As can be appreciated this support arrangement has increased stability and can include an upper platform wall above the float 108 to support a power extraction arrangement (not shown).
From the above it can be appreciated that the energy conversion either as potential energy in a counterweight or in a suitable compression stroke due to movement of the float member 8 can be accomplished in a shorter period of time where the maximum velocity of the buoyant member is higher than would be the case if the buoyant member merely was allowed to rise and fall with the crests and troughs of the wave. It is believed this arrangement of locking and releasing of the buoyant member is more effective in both the accumulation and the extraction of energy.
In Figure 9 a three post system 100 is shown with a triangular float 108. As can be appreciated this support arrangement has increased stability and can include an upper platform wall above the float 108 to support a power extraction arrangement (not shown).
A further embodiment of the invention is shown in Figures 10 and 11 where a modified float 8a is supported between two posts. The float 8a includes a funnel shape bottom 50 with a one way check valve 15. The funnel shaped bottom 50 is flooded when the float is supported on the wave as shown in Figure 10 and the check valve 15 is open. Therefore the buoyancy level of the float is essentially fixed and not affected by the water in the funnel. Once the float is locked and the wave starts to dissipate as shown in Figure 11 due to the crest moving through, the check valve closes and thus the mass and weight of the float is increased by the captured water.
Therefore the weight of the float is increased for the downward power stroke. The float, upon bottoming out in the trough, removes the weight of the water as the check valve opens. This funnel concept or water capture/release concept can also be used between floats on separate columns to increase the weight of the captured water or on single floats with a single vertical support.
In the embodiment of Figures 10 and 11 it is also possible to provide a series of outlet ports or check valves generally at a top region of the funnel. These ports or check valves allow displacement of water when the bottom check valve opens as it impacts the water at the bottom of the power stroke. They can also assist in filling. With this arrangement it may not be necessary to include the check valve.
The arrangement of Figures 10 and 11 have been described with a two post system, however the three post system of Figure 9 is also a practical alternative.
Furthermore one funnel and one check valve have been shown for illustrative purpose only. More funnels and check valves per float can be used and may be preferred for efficiency and reliability. Multiple post systems may be preferred in the working load for the support becomes too high or to increase structural integrity.
The present system has been described with respect to a float member moving and locking on a vertical member and then being released but other arrangements are possible. For example a float suspended from a cable trained over a column member could also be used to lock and release such a cable to rotate a shaft as part of the power extraction or could raise a weight or otherwise accumulate power.
The previous embodiments have described a power stroke that is derived from locking the float 20 in a raised position on a suitable support and dropping of the float and extracting power as the float accelerates towards the bottom of a trough. It is also possible to combine this embodiment with a power generation stroke that is derived from locking of the float in a down position followed by the appropriate release thereof as a wave crest passes over the locked float. In this way a power stroke can also be derived during movement of the float from a submerged condition to the top of the crest.
As can be appreciated with this alternate embodiment the float is locked on the support when the float is essentially at the base of a wave trough. As the next wave advances past the support structure the float is effectively submerged and a buoyancy force will result. This buoyancy force is a function of the head of water above the float member and the volume of water displaced by the float. The actual weight of the float also enters into the amount of power derived. Release of the float from the submerged position essentially defines a power stroke from adjacent the bottom of the trough to about the top of the wave crest. Preferably this power stroke is controlled to allow the float to achieve essentially its maximum position as the wave crest moves past the support. This will define the downward gravity stroke as previously described.
In this preferred embodiment the power stroke is produced by the downward movement of the float free of its contact with the water and an upward power stroke is derived by locking of the float in a downward position allowing flooding over the float as a wave starts to move past the support structure followed by release of the float and a power stroke derived from the buoyancy force of the float. As can be appreciated from the above the upward power stroke may be controlled to produce more power on the downward stroke. For example, the float may be released such that it rises upwardly under the buoyancy force and will achieve a maximum position relative to the wave crest for locking of the float in the downward position. In addition it can be appreciated that the downward stroke may produce more power as additional weight can be added to the float due to the capture of water as previously described.
The generation of power by both a downward and an upward stroke is possible as there is a significant time between the passage of a trough of the wave past the support structure relative to movement of the crest of a wave past the support structure.
It can be appreciated that various arrangements can be used for extracting power on both the upward and downward stroke. The structure does require locking in both the upward and the downward position to allow the wave to appropriately move relative to the support structure to allow the effective extraction of power either by the float moving into the trough or the float moving upwardly towards the crest of a wave.
Therefore the weight of the float is increased for the downward power stroke. The float, upon bottoming out in the trough, removes the weight of the water as the check valve opens. This funnel concept or water capture/release concept can also be used between floats on separate columns to increase the weight of the captured water or on single floats with a single vertical support.
In the embodiment of Figures 10 and 11 it is also possible to provide a series of outlet ports or check valves generally at a top region of the funnel. These ports or check valves allow displacement of water when the bottom check valve opens as it impacts the water at the bottom of the power stroke. They can also assist in filling. With this arrangement it may not be necessary to include the check valve.
The arrangement of Figures 10 and 11 have been described with a two post system, however the three post system of Figure 9 is also a practical alternative.
Furthermore one funnel and one check valve have been shown for illustrative purpose only. More funnels and check valves per float can be used and may be preferred for efficiency and reliability. Multiple post systems may be preferred in the working load for the support becomes too high or to increase structural integrity.
The present system has been described with respect to a float member moving and locking on a vertical member and then being released but other arrangements are possible. For example a float suspended from a cable trained over a column member could also be used to lock and release such a cable to rotate a shaft as part of the power extraction or could raise a weight or otherwise accumulate power.
The previous embodiments have described a power stroke that is derived from locking the float 20 in a raised position on a suitable support and dropping of the float and extracting power as the float accelerates towards the bottom of a trough. It is also possible to combine this embodiment with a power generation stroke that is derived from locking of the float in a down position followed by the appropriate release thereof as a wave crest passes over the locked float. In this way a power stroke can also be derived during movement of the float from a submerged condition to the top of the crest.
As can be appreciated with this alternate embodiment the float is locked on the support when the float is essentially at the base of a wave trough. As the next wave advances past the support structure the float is effectively submerged and a buoyancy force will result. This buoyancy force is a function of the head of water above the float member and the volume of water displaced by the float. The actual weight of the float also enters into the amount of power derived. Release of the float from the submerged position essentially defines a power stroke from adjacent the bottom of the trough to about the top of the wave crest. Preferably this power stroke is controlled to allow the float to achieve essentially its maximum position as the wave crest moves past the support. This will define the downward gravity stroke as previously described.
In this preferred embodiment the power stroke is produced by the downward movement of the float free of its contact with the water and an upward power stroke is derived by locking of the float in a downward position allowing flooding over the float as a wave starts to move past the support structure followed by release of the float and a power stroke derived from the buoyancy force of the float. As can be appreciated from the above the upward power stroke may be controlled to produce more power on the downward stroke. For example, the float may be released such that it rises upwardly under the buoyancy force and will achieve a maximum position relative to the wave crest for locking of the float in the downward position. In addition it can be appreciated that the downward stroke may produce more power as additional weight can be added to the float due to the capture of water as previously described.
The generation of power by both a downward and an upward stroke is possible as there is a significant time between the passage of a trough of the wave past the support structure relative to movement of the crest of a wave past the support structure.
It can be appreciated that various arrangements can be used for extracting power on both the upward and downward stroke. The structure does require locking in both the upward and the downward position to allow the wave to appropriately move relative to the support structure to allow the effective extraction of power either by the float moving into the trough or the float moving upwardly towards the crest of a wave.
Although various preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (5)
1. A wave energy extraction system comprising a float member arranged in a body of water to rise with upward movement caused by the motion of the water;
a support structure secured to a base and providing vertical support and temporary locking of said float member in a raised position without the support of the water;
a release arrangement for releasing the temporary locking of said float member to allow said float to fall by gravity into said water disposed at a lower position;
and an energy extraction arrangement for extracting energy during the fall of said float member.
a support structure secured to a base and providing vertical support and temporary locking of said float member in a raised position without the support of the water;
a release arrangement for releasing the temporary locking of said float member to allow said float to fall by gravity into said water disposed at a lower position;
and an energy extraction arrangement for extracting energy during the fall of said float member.
2. A wave energy extraction arrangement as claimed in claim 1 wherein said support structure includes at least two vertical support members in engagement with a bottom of said body of water.
3. A wave energy extraction arrangement as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein said support structure includes three vertical support members disposed in a triangular configuration with each support member being positioned interior to a peripheral edge of said float member.
4. A wave energy extraction arrangement as claimed in claim 1, 2 or 3 including a ballast tank associated with said float member that at least partially fills with water when said float member is floating on said water and includes means to automatically retain the water when supported in said raised position.
5. A wave energy extraction arrangement as claimed in claim 4 wherein said means to automatically retain the water is a check valve arrangement.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2747296A CA2747296A1 (en) | 2011-05-05 | 2011-07-25 | Wave energy converter |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2,739,348 | 2011-05-05 | ||
| CA2739348A CA2739348A1 (en) | 2011-05-06 | 2011-05-06 | Wave energy converter |
| CA2747296A CA2747296A1 (en) | 2011-05-05 | 2011-07-25 | Wave energy converter |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2747296A1 true CA2747296A1 (en) | 2012-11-05 |
Family
ID=47143331
Family Applications (2)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2739348A Abandoned CA2739348A1 (en) | 2011-05-05 | 2011-05-06 | Wave energy converter |
| CA2747296A Abandoned CA2747296A1 (en) | 2011-05-05 | 2011-07-25 | Wave energy converter |
Family Applications Before (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2739348A Abandoned CA2739348A1 (en) | 2011-05-05 | 2011-05-06 | Wave energy converter |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (2) | CA2739348A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN112145335A (en) * | 2020-10-13 | 2020-12-29 | 李明山 | Wave energy collecting system for power generation and working method thereof |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN109488516A (en) * | 2018-10-26 | 2019-03-19 | 成都理工大学 | A kind of floating installation using wave energy |
| CN109404209B (en) * | 2018-10-26 | 2020-09-04 | 成都理工大学 | Wave energy power generation system and wave energy power generation method |
-
2011
- 2011-05-06 CA CA2739348A patent/CA2739348A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2011-07-25 CA CA2747296A patent/CA2747296A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN112145335A (en) * | 2020-10-13 | 2020-12-29 | 李明山 | Wave energy collecting system for power generation and working method thereof |
| CN112145335B (en) * | 2020-10-13 | 2023-03-07 | 李明山 | Wave energy collecting system for power generation and working method thereof |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2739348A1 (en) | 2012-11-06 |
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