ES2732238A1 - Wave power converter module (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) - Google Patents

Abstract

An energy converter module is presented, based on wave energy, to generate electrical energy that contains in synthesis the following technical elements: support structure (1) fixed to the seabed, float (6), coupling-decoupling system (7), computer (8) governing processes, and waterproof housing (5). Also contained in this housing: active mass (3), inner duct (2), injector (15) and electric generator (4). The coupling-decoupling system (7), during the wave ascent, couples the float (6) to raise the active mass (3), decoupling it in wave descent. It maintains the high position of the active mass (3), releasing it after several wing cycles. The active mass (3) subjected to its weight, presses the fluid contained in the volume delimited the watertight housing (5) the inner duct (2) and the active mass itself (3). At a certain pressure, the injector valve (42) is opened by injecting fluid over the turbine-type electric generator (4), which generates electrical energy. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Wave power converter module.

For years, this civilization suffers from energy problems. The energy from hydrocarbons is finite and harmful to the environment. It is clear that a sustainable future, involves the use of renewable energy.

Among the renewable energies, we focus on the energies of the sea, and specifically that coming from the waves, the wave.

The current harvesting technologies, present as main deficiencies: the low generation powers and the lack of regularity in it.

To date, electric buoys are focused on taking advantage of the reciprocating movement of the waves.

The converter module proposed in this document has: a coupling-coupling system (7) that allows: to accumulate gravitational potential energy, control the moment of release of this gravitational potential energy, and isolate the process of electrical generation against the changing environment.

In addition to the coupling-decoupling system (7), this invention provides the state of the current art with a new way of transforming the potential gravitational energy stored in the active mass (3). This new transformation mode is possible thanks to the following technical elements: waterproof housing (5), active mass (3), inner duct (2), the injector (15) and the new arrangement of the turbine electric generator (4) inside the inner duct (2).

As a consequence of these technical characteristics, our module generates greater electrical power and allows greater control over the generation, which translates into a more predictable, continuous and powerful generation.

The technical effects of the converter module presented substantially improve the state of the art.

Detailed description of the invention

Detailed description of the elements

Support structure (Figure 2)

The module has a support structure (1), capable of supporting the elements of the generator module. The structure has an anchor point to the seabed (9), with the type of ligature deemed appropriate (kneecap, embedment or others) but always restricting at least vertical movement.

The shaft (10) of the support structure (1), can be of variable length, to adapt to tidal heights or to different installation locations. This aspect can be solved by incorporating an underwater hydraulic cylinder into the shaft (10), or by using the coupling-decoupling system (7), as explained below.

The shaft (10) of the support structure (1), ends in an inverted truncated conical surface (13), which directs the contact of the wave towards the float (6). On this conical surface inverted (13) is the upper base of the support structure (11), on which the bearing plane (12) is mounted.

Bearing plane (Figure 3)

The so-called bearing plane (12), is a bearing that allows the rotation in the plane between the upper base of the support structure (11) and the lower base of the waterproof housing (14). This mechanism must be tight.

Inner duct (Figure 5)

On the lower base of the waterproof housing (14), the inner duct (2) is mounted in a central vertical position. The inner duct (2) acts as a guide for the active mass (3) in its vertical movement. The inner duct (2) houses the electric generator (4). The inner duct (2) in one embodiment has an aerodynamic housing (36) to favor the operation of the electric generator (4). The inner duct (2) has a cylindrical shape. In other embodiments it may have a prismatic shape. The inner duct (2) contains at least one injector (15) and depending on the preferred embodiment may contain several injectors.

Active mass (Figure 4)

The active mass (3) is mounted around the inner duct (2), which will oscillate vertically guided both by the inner duct (2) by its inner face and by the water-tight housing (5) by its outer face.

The main function of the active mass (3), is to treasure gravitational potential energy.

The active mass (3) has at least one anchor point (19), which links it to the coupling-decoupling system (7).

The active mass (3), in an embodiment of the invention, during the generation reduction phase, acts as a plunger on the volume delimited by the inner duct (2), the water-tight housing (5) and the lower surface of the active mass itself (3).

Electric generator (Figure 8.1)

In one embodiment, the electric generator (4) is housed in the inner duct (2) and we define the electric generator (4) as an axial flow air turbine, with a vertical axis of rotation and which is supported by the structure generator support (21). The generator support structure (21) is embedded in the lower base of the waterproof housing (14). The electric generator (4) receives the air flow from the injector (15). That air flow is regulated by the injector valve (42).

In variants of this embodiment, the turbine can operate with another fluid other than air, it may have the horizontal axis of rotation or there may be several injectors.

Waterproof case (Figure 5)

The waterproof housing (5) is located on the bearing plane (12); it houses the active mass (3) and the inner duct (2).

The waterproof case (5) is shaped like a cylinder, finished off in a conical cover (25) above.

The waterproof housing (5), has the lower valves of the waterproof housing (24) in case you want to regulate the pressure of your inner fluid, or vary the fluid itself.

Externally coupled to the water-tight housing (5) and without being strictly part of it, coverings of the transmitter cable (22) are provided, which will protect part of the coupling-decoupling system (7) against the aggressions of the marine environment. The coverings of the transmitter cable (22) will be a transition between exposure to the marine environment and the watertight conditions of the waterproof case (5).

Depending on the embodiment, there are at least three sealing limit points (23), in which the waterproof housing (5) communicates with elements external to it. Two are near the cover (25) through which two transmitting cables (30) of the coupling-decoupling system (7) enter; another hole is in its base (14), where it outputs the extraction cable (16) of electrical energy. At these tightness limit points (23), the tightness condition changes and they must be conscientious in water treatment. Linear dynamic joints (34) shall be arranged in them, to maintain the tightness in the waterproof housing (5).

Float (figure 6)

The toroid-shaped float (6) is located around the waterproof housing (5). The float (6) is executed in a light, watertight material and of sufficient mechanical strength, to withstand the stresses that will be transmitted by the mesh structure (27) that surrounds it. It will contain a fluid of lower density than water, for example air. It will have one or more float valves (28) to be able to vary if desired, the internal fluid and the pressure at which it works. The mesh structure (27) of the float (6) is connected to a coupling mechanism (26) (a clutch with a jaw (29), for example). This described mechanism is an essential part of the coupling-decoupling system (7). When the coupled jaw (29) is arranged, it transmits the voltages of the transmitter cable (30) to the mesh structure (27), which distributes them across the surface of the float (6).

Coupling-decoupling system (Figure 7)

Functions

• Mechanically couple the float (6) to the rest of the module (at least in the vertical direction), in the wave ascent phase.

• Transmit the float thrust (6) to the active mass (3) for lifting.

• Mechanically decouple (at least in the vertical direction) the float (6) from the rest of the module, in the phase of wave descent.

• Maintain the high position of the active mass (3) by accumulating its successive elevations, corresponding to the successive wave cycles, that is, to maintain and accumulate gravitational potential energy.

• Release the downward movement of the active mass (3) when it reaches a certain elevation, that is, control the moment of release of the gravitational potential energy.

• Control the rate of descent of the active mass (3) and stop its residual movement, by resting on the lower base of the waterproof housing (14).

Elements

To perform these functions, the coupling-decoupling system (7) is formed by a set of mechanisms that execute the actions of the process and a computer (8) with its corresponding peripherals, which governs the process.

The main elements of the coupling-decoupling system (7) and the functions they perform are described below:

• The computer (8) receives information on the status of the process, through its peripherals, which will basically be motion and position sensors. When we are in the wave ascension phase, the computer (8) sends the coupling order; when we are in the phase of wave descent, send the decoupling order. When the active mass (3) reaches a certain height, it sends the order of release of the downward movement of the same.

• The coupling mechanism (26) can be realized as a clutch that drives a jaw (29). Clutch is defined as a system that allows both transmitting and interrupting the transmission of a mechanical energy to its final action, voluntarily. It is permanently linked to the float (6) by means of the mesh structure (27). The coupling mechanism (26), executes the mechanical coupling and decoupling of the float (6) from the rest of the module by, for example, a jaw (29). When we are in the phase of wave rise, it is coupled to the transmitter cable (30), decoupling from it in the phase of descent.

• Ratchet (31): it is the mechanism that preserves the elevated position of the active mass (3) by accumulating the successive elevations, corresponding to the successive wave cycles. The ratchet (31) will release the downward movement of the active mass (3) when it reaches a certain height.

• Brake (41): it will be incorporated in at least one of the pulleys, and can be the same as the one with the ratchet (31). It will be the element in charge of controlling the rate of descent of the active mass (3) and of stopping its residual movement, upon reaching the lower base of the waterproof housing (14).

• Upper pulley (40).

• Lower pulley (39).

• Transmitter cable (30), with at least one active ground anchor point (19).

• Reel (32): pick up and release transmitter cable (30).

• Gantry structure (38) can be embedded in the upper face of the bearing plane (12). It supports the following elements: ratchet (31), upper pulley (40), lower pulley (39), brake (41) and reel (32).

Tidal height adjustment system

You have to adapt the height at which the converter module works, depending on the different heights of sea level, caused by the tides. To achieve this objective, in one embodiment, it is possible to choose to mount a hydraulic cylinder that varies in length in the shaft (10), according to the orders of the computer (8). The shaft (10) of the module is variable in its length, it is formed by two sections of different dimensions, such that, one can be housed in the other, that gasket being conveniently waterproofed. The movement between the two sections of the shaft (10) is allowed or restricted by means of a lock (33).

In another embodiment of the invention, the coupling-decoupling system (7) can be used as part of the tidal adjustment system. We can transmit the thrust to extend the shaft (10), stopping the transmission of this thrust to the active mass (3) and releasing the blockage (33) of the shaft; as a result, the thrust would raise the top of the shaft (10). Conversely, to decrease the length of the shaft (10), with the float (6) disengaged and the lock (33) deactivated, the upper part of the shaft (10) descends by weight; finally, both for lengthening and for shortening the shaft (10), when the desired position is reached, the computer (8) will activate the shaft lock (33) again.

Computer

The Computer (8) is in charge of governing and coordinating all the operations that make up the converter module processes. It receives the information of the state of the process through its peripherals that will be mainly motion, position and pressure sensors; Based on this information, issue the orders. The main orders that you have to issue during an ordinary generation cycle and to which items you send them are specified below.

• Couple and disengage the coupling mechanism (26), depending on the state of the wave cycle.

• Locking, to the ratchet (31), of the downward vertical movement of the active mass (3) during its ascent phase.

• At the moment when the active mass (3) reaches a certain height; orders the ratchet (31) to release the downward movement of this active mass (3).

• During the descent-generation phase: regulation of the descent speed of the active mass (3), by means of the brake (41).

• Opening, closing and regulation of the injector valve (42).

• Adaptation of the electricity delivered by the module to the transformers (35).

The computer (8) governs other processes such as: tidal height adjustment, security system settings, or data transmission and reception to remote points.

Security system

If they are registered by the computer peripherals (8), abnormal values in the operation of the module that are registered as harmful (such as during storms), the computer (8) will send orders to avoid these damages; You can, for example, leave the module disconnected from the float (6) permanently.

It is an advantage, that the safety system, against storms and extreme conditions, be the same normal operating system of the module.

Description of the preferred embodiment

Anchorage to the seabed

A base will be installed on the seabed (37) executed in reinforced concrete. On this base the module has an anchor point to the seabed (9). The anchor point to the seabed (9) works as a kneecap and by actuating the anchor point blocker (18), it works as a recess.

The shaft (10) starts from the anchor point to the seabed (9).

Support structure

The support structure (1) is made of stainless steel. From the anchor point to the seabed (9), the first section of the shaft of diameter D1, larger than D2, is split so that they can be partially housed in one another. Between the two sections there is a linear dynamic joint (34), polymeric, waterproof and resistant to salt water. The section DI has a lock (33), governed by the computer (8), which prevents or releases movement between the two sections of the shaft (10).

The support structure (1) in its upper section has an inverted truncated conical shape (13), thus directing the rising wave towards the float (6). Transformers (35) are housed in this inverted trunk (13).

Plain bearing

Bearing plane (12): the function of this mechanical element is to allow the rotation in the plane between the upper base of the support structure (11) and the lower base of the waterproof housing (14).

In the preferred embodiment, the piece is executed as a double direction ball bearing, with several rows of balls. Among the elements of the mechanism, in its exposed part to the sea, polymeric material joints will be arranged to ensure its tightness. Generator

The turbine type electric generator (4), housed in the inner duct (2) is chosen for the preferred embodiment. The electric generator (4) is an axial flow air turbine, with vertical rotation axis and which is supported by the generator support structure (21).

The electric generator (4) produces electrical energy that is extracted by extraction cable (16). The extraction cable (16) delivers the energy to the transformers (35), housed in the inverted trunk (13).

Active mass

The active mass (3) has as its main function to treasure gravitational potential energy, therefore, it must be of a heavy, economical and resistant material.

For the preferred embodiment it is reinforced concrete. This reinforced concrete is coated on its inner and outer face (faces in contact with the inner duct (2) and the waterproof housing (5), respectively) of a material of minimum friction, such as Teflon.

Once the material is defined, the shape is defined. The active mass (3) in the preferred embodiment is shaped like a toroid and acts as a plunger on the volume delimited by the inner duct (2), the water-tight housing (5) and the lower surface of the active mass itself ( 3).

In this embodiment, the active mass (3) is anchored at two points (19) to the coupling coupling system (7); in other configurations they can be four or more, always keeping the symmetry.

Inner duct

The inner duct (2) is contained in the waterproof housing (5) and is a cylinder coaxial to it. It has lower openings (45) that let the fluid pass (air in the preferred embodiment) and is embedded in this lower part at the base of the waterproof housing (14). In its upper part it also has upper openings (46) that allow the fluid to pass through. The inner duct (2) is embedded in the cover (25) by its upper part.

The inner duct (2) in the preferred embodiment contains an injector (15) that channels the fluid and has an injector valve (42).

The injector valve (42) at the beginning of the phase of descent of the active mass (3) is kept closed, until the fluid contained in the injector reaches a certain pressure that will be the generation pressure. At this pressure, the injector valve (42) opens allowing the injector fluid (15) to flow out.

This duct also has an inner duct valve (43) in case you want to regulate the fluid it contains.

Waterproof case

The waterproof housing (5) has a cylindrical shape and is crowned by a conical cover (25) that has a cover valve (47), which makes it possible to regulate or change the fluid contained in the waterproof housing ( 5). The waterproof case (5) is made of stainless steel.

As the name implies, it is waterproof and has the so-called lower valves of the waterproof housing (24) and upper valves of the waterproof housing (44), which offer the possibility of regulating the pressure of the fluid (air) it houses.

We designate a limit point of tightness (23) at the points where the waterproof housing communicates with external elements. In the preferred embodiment are the two upper holes, close to the cover (25) through which two transmitting cables (30) of the coupling-decoupling system (7) and another hole in its base (14) enter, through which the cable is output Extraction (16) of electrical energy. In these sensitive points where the sealing condition changes, it is necessary to have linear dynamic joints (34) that preserve the hydraulic seal inside the housing; These joints are executed with polymers of good mechanical qualities and resistant to a saline environment.

The water-tight housing (5) has two transmitter cable covers (22) welded on its exterior, which protect part of the coupling system from the elements. weather. They are a transition between the conditions of exposure to the marine environment and the tightness inside the waterproof housing (5).

Although in this preferred embodiment the steel is proposed as a material for the waterproof housing (5), there are composite materials such as glass fiber or carbon fiber, which could be applied with good results.

Coupling-decoupling system

In this preferred embodiment for simplification, the decoupling coupling system (7) has two anchor points to the active mass (19). Do not forget the symmetry of the system we are explaining.

The float (6) supports the mesh structure (27) and this, in turn, has the coupling mechanism (26), materialized in a clutch that engages and disengages a hydraulic jaw (29) of the transmitter cable (30). The thrust that occurs in the float (6) during the wave rise is transmitted to the transmitter cable (30), which will function primarily as a traction cable. The transmitter cable (30) must have an external treatment against salt water, such as plastic impregnated.

The transmitter cable (30) passes through the lower pulley (39) and the upper pulley (40) which support their axes in the gantry structure (38) embedded in two points, to the upper face of the bearing plane (12). The upper beam of the gantry structure (38) is located inside the waterproof housing and the points of intersection between this structure and the waterproof housing (5), will have to be treated to maintain the tightness.

The basic elements that make up this system are:

Reel (32), whose main function is to collect and release length of transmitter cable (30) according to the process.

Lower pulley (39): it is the pulley closest to the base of the watertight housing (14) and is exposed to the marine environment, with which it is necessary to provide protection against it, for example, a pvc coating housing.

Upper pulley (40): it is located in the upper part of the gantry structure (38), housed in the upper part of the covering (22). The transmitter cable (30) when leaving it, passes through the sealing limit point (23) and reaches the ratchet (31).

The ratchet (31) and the brake (41) are housed inside the waterproof housing (5), which will favor its durability.

The transmitter cable (30) leaves the ratchet (31) and reaches the anchor point of the active mass (19). The active mass receives the tensions of the transmitter cable (30) at that point and distributes them in its internal structure.

The processes of the coupling-decoupling system (7) are governed by the computer (8).

Float

The float (6) has a toroidal shape and is executed in a lightweight polymeric material, with good mechanical resistance and corrosion resistance. This type of material allows great freedom in terms of creating the float geometry (6). The float (6) also has a valve (28) that allows to regulate the pressure of the fluid it contains, or to change the fluid itself. This fluid in the preferred embodiment is air. The float (6) has some recesses on its surface, intended to fit the mesh structure (27), which in turn, supports the coupling mechanism (26) with its jaw (29).

Tidal height adjustment system

For the preferred embodiment, of the two systems explained above, the one using the coupling-decoupling system (7) will be used.

Computer

The Computer (8) is a computer, composed of its hardware, software and peripheral elements; These peripherals provide the process information, mainly: position, speed and acceleration of the module elements, as well as fluid pressure.

The peripheral elements in the preferred embodiment are position and pressure motion sensors, provide this information that is interpreted by the software. The software is previously calibrated with the operating parameters, evaluates the data provided by the sensors and based on this data, issues the basic operating orders.

The computer (8) is housed in the lower base of the waterproof case (14).

Power generation system from several converter modules

You can use several converter modules like the one we are describing to achieve a joint generation, from the individual generations of each module.

Other embodiments

There are other embodiments of the converter module in which the technical elements are arranged spatially separated into groups. The groups share the transmitter cable (30) and the coupling-decoupling system (7).

The first group contains the following technical elements:

• Float (6)

• Support structure (1)

• Waterproof case (5)

• Computer (8)

• Anchorage to the seabed (9)

• Bearing plane (12)

• Coupling mechanism (26)

• Mesh structure (27)

• Gag (29)

• Reel (32)

• Seabed base (37)

• Gantry structure (38)

• Lower pulley (39)

• Upper pulley (40)

In the second group we will have the following technical elements.

• Electric generator (turbine) (4)

• Support structure (1)

• Inner duct (2)

• Active mass (3)

• Waterproof case (5)

• Computer (8)

• Anchorage to the seabed (9)

• Injector (15)

• Extraction cable (16)

• Bottom valves of the watertight housing (24)

• Reversible ratchet (31)

• Transformers (35)

• Seabed base (37)

• Gantry structure (38)

• Lower pulley (39)

• Upper pulley (40)

• Brake (41)

• Injector valve (42)

• Inner duct valve (43)

• Upper valves of the watertight housing (44)

• Lower openings (45)

• Upper openings (46)

• Cover valve (47)

This embodiment is illustrated in Figure 9.

There are more ways of realizing our module. For example, a central axis (2) which in turn is functionally the stator of a linear electric generator can be arranged instead of the internal duct (2), depending on the design adopted for the generator, it can accommodate the magnetic circuit, or it can accommodate the armor circuit In this linear eclectic generator the active mass is functionally the oscillator, and depending on the design adopted for the linear electric generator, it can accommodate the magnetic circuit, or it can accommodate the armature circuit. In the waterproof case (5) there are semi-empty conditions.

In another embodiment the active mass is also guided by a central axis, the electric generator being supported by the active mass in this case and both have a solidarity movement during the whole process. The electric generator has a lower diffuser attached, with aerodynamic functions. The electric generator is an axial flow turbomachinery. This turbomachine has adjustable blades. The adjustable blades, during the ascent phase will have a position of minimum resistance to flow; in the descent-generation phase they change to the turbination position.

Operation (Description of a generation cycle (Figure 8)

Wave Valley (Figure 8.1)

We start from the situation of rest and wave valley. We have the active mass (3) resting on the base of the waterproof housing (14). The float (6) is supported on the surface of the water.

The coupling-decoupling system (7) at this time, keeps the float (6) decoupled from the rest of the module (at least in the vertical direction).

Coupling (Figure 8.2)

Immediately after a valley, the rise of the wave begins. The peripherals inform the computer (8) of this situation and this sends the connection order to the coupling mechanism (26), which, by closing its jaw (29), is coupled to the transmitter cable (30), thus being coupled the float (6) to the rest of the module.

Rise of the wave (Figure 8.3)

The wave is rising and in the float (6) there is a thrust that is transmitted to the active mass (3) by means of the transmitter cable (30). When this thrust is sufficient, the active mass (3) will be guided by the inner duct (2) and the inner surface of the water-tight housing (5) until a moment close to the wave crest.

Wave Crest Disconnect (Figure 8.4)

From the moment of wave crest, the descent of the wave ensues. The peripherals report this situation to the computer (8) which sends the decoupling order to the coupling mechanism (26), opening its jaw (29) and decoupling, at least in the vertical direction, the float (6) from the rest of the module. The downward movement of the active mass (3) is blocked thanks to the ratchet (31), thus treasuring its gravitational potential energy.

Wave Descent (Figure 8.5)

The active mass (3) maintains its elevated position. The float (6) that is decoupled from the rest of the module, descends supported on the surface of the water, to the next wave valley.

New coupling and wave rise

The coupling operation described above is repeated for the wave valley situation, as well as the ascent of the active mass (3).

After a number of wave cycles, the active mass (3) reaches a certain height, which we call generation height (Hg), considered suitable for starting the generation process.

Generation Height (Figure 8.6)

The active mass (3) has already reached the generation height (Hg), the peripherals transmit this information to the computer (8). The computer then sends the following orders: decoupling order from the float (6), to the coupling mechanism (26); release order of the vertical movement of the active mass (3) sent to the ratchet (31); recess position order, sent to the anchor point blocker (18) and closing order to the injector valve (42). The anchorage to the seabed (9) begins to work structurally as a recess with the actuation of the anchor point blocker (18).

Descent (Figure 8.7)

The module design defines a variable volume bounded by: the inner surface of the waterproof housing (5) the outer surface of the inner duct (2) and the lower surface of the active mass (3) that acts as a plunger. In the described volume a fluid is contained which in the preferred embodiment is air.

The active mass (3) descends subject to the force of its weight reducing the volume that we have defined in the previous paragraph. The fluid located under the active mass (3) is reduced in volume to its incompressible condition.

Generation pressure (Figure 8.8)

The active mass (3) exerts a pressure on the fluid equal to its weight divided by its lower surface. When the fluid reaches a certain pressure called the generation pressure, the injector valve (42) opens, allowing the fluid jet to move the turbine blades (17).

Generation (Figure 8.9)

The turbine type electric generator (4) is a device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. In the preferred embodiment it is an alternating current generator. A generator essentially consists of a rectangular loop that rotates in a uniform magnetic field. This rotation movement of the turns is produced by the movement of the blades (17) of the turbine, caused by the passage of the fluid (in this case the air). When the loop rotates, the magnetic field flow through it changes over time, so we move electrons: we produce an electromagnetic force.

The electromagnetic force produced: fem = qv x B, is a function of the speed with which the spiral rotates in the magnetic field, at higher speed, greater electromagnetic generation, and this speed will be determined by the rotation of the blades (17); the blades (17) will have a turning speed (V. ALABES), a function of the speed of circulation of the fluid through them (V. FLUID). This electromagnetic force (fem) is channeled through the extraction cable (16) , which goes to the transformer (35) and from there to a new transformer, or to the consumption network.

The weight (Mg) of the active mass (3) is a known force of a gravitational field; If the system can be assumed vertically, we can more easily optimize the rest of the parameters, to maximize and give continuity to the power generation.

The proposed module allows to obtain this predictable system of forces, independent of the float (6) and also allows an optimal way to extract the potential gravitational energy stored in the active mass (3) in the form of electrical energy.

The module is equipped with a brake (41), with which the speed of the active mass (3) can be adjusted.

The active mass (3) arrives at the end of its path, resting on the lower base of the waterproof housing (14). On the contact surface between these two elements, a layer of elastomeric material (20) is provided for support and vibration absorption.

Return to starting position

The active mass (3) has made its descent independently to the float (6), under a different system of forces.

With the active mass (3) already at rest, in the next wave valley we are again in the initial situation.

Description of the figures

Figure 1- General perspective view of a converter module.

Figure 2- View of a section by plane of symmetry, of the support structure (1). The following elements can be seen numbered:

Anchorage to the seabed (9)

Fuste (10)

Upper base of the support structure (11)

Inverted truncated conical surface (13)

Lock (33)

Linear Dynamic Joint (34)

Seabed base (37)

Figure 3- View of a section by plane of symmetry of the module. This section shows the bearing plane (12), which allows the rotation between the upper base of the support structure (11) and the lower base of the waterproof housing (14).

Figure 4- View of a section, illustrating in detail the shape of the active mass (3). The following elements are also indicated:

Bottom base of the waterproof case (14)

Injector (15)

Injector valve (42)

Anchor point active mass (19)

Figure 5- Shows a section of the waterproof housing (5). The following elements are indicated:

Inner duct (2)

Extraction Cable (16)

Covering (22)

Sealing limit point (23), in extended details

Bottom valves waterproof housing (24)

Deck (25)

Linear Dynamic Joint (34)

Inner duct valve (43)

Upper valves of the watertight housing (44)

Lower openings (45)

Upper openings (46)

Cover valve (47)

Figure 6- Illustrates the float. A section of the float (6) is observed along a plane containing the coupling mechanisms (26). The float valve (28) is also shown.

The figure also shows a plan view of the float (6), in detail of a coupling mechanism (26), with the jaw (29) and the transmitter cable (30) to which it is coupled.

A perspective view of the mesh structure (27) is shown in the lower part of the figure.

Figure 7- Shows a section of the coupling-decoupling system (7). In the lower part of the figure a sectional view can be seen along a plane A, perpendicular to the previous one. The coupling mechanism (26) is observed in detail, illustrating the coupling-disengagement movement.

The following elements can be identified:

Anchor point active mass (19)

Coupling Mechanism (26)

Gag (29)

Transmitter Cable (30)

Ratchet (31)

Reel (32)

Gantry structure (38)

Lower Pulley (39)

Upper Pulley (40)

Brake (41)

Figure 8- Shows the operation of a generation cycle, by means of longitudinal and transverse sections. It is subdivided into 8 figures.

Figure 8.1 Illustrates a wave valley, with the elements of the module in initial rest. In detail, the jaw (29) is shown in disengaged position of the transmitter cable (30). The following elements are numbered:

Active mass (3)

Electric generator (4)

Float (6)

Computer (8)

Bottom base of the waterproof case (14)

Coupling Mechanism (26)

Figure 8.2 Illustrates in detail the coupling movement. The elements are indicated:

Gag (29)

Coupling Mechanism (26)

Figure 8.3 Shows the module running during wave ascent. The thrust is symbolized, with the letter "E" and an arrow. In the enlarged detail, the direction of movement is shown by arrows, on the transmitter cable (30), with the float (6) coupled to the rest of the module. The arrangement of the generator support structure (21) is shown in detail. The following elements are also indicated:

Inner duct (2)

Active mass (3)

Figure 8.4 Illustrates the momentum of a wave crest. In the upper detail, the active mass (3) is observed, maintaining its elevation, thanks to the ratchet (31). The lower detail illustrates the decoupling movement of the jaws (29) of the coupling mechanism (26), decoupling from the transmitter cable (30).

They are also indicated in this figure:

Float (6)

Computer (8)

Figure 8.5 Illustrates the operation of the module during the wave descent, with the active mass (3) held in its elevated position by the ratchet (31). The float (6) decoupled vertically from the rest of the module, descends on the descending surface of the wave. In the lower detail, the jaws (29) can be seen in the decoupled position with respect to the transmitter cable (30).

Figure 8.6 Shows the active mass (3) in its generation height (Hg).

The following operations are illustrated:

Anchor point blocker drive (18)

Injector valve closure (42)

Disconnecting the jaws (29) with respect to the transmitter cable (30)

The elements are also numbered:

Coupling Mechanism (26)

Reversible Ratchet (31)

Float (6)

Computer (8)

Figure 8.7 Shows the module during the descent phase. The weight of the active mass (3) exerts a pressure on the fluid under it. The injector valve (42) is closed.

Figure 8.8 Illustrates the generation pressure situation (Pgen). The fluid reaches its point of incompressibility and from that moment its pressure increases. When the fluid reaches the generation pressure (Pgen), the injector valve (42) opens.

Figure 8.9 Shows the electricity generation. With the injector valve (42) open, the fluid is injected into the blades (17) of the turbine by the injector (15). The fluid has a circulation speed represented by (V. FLUID) and moves the blades (17) with a rotation speed represented by (V. ALABES), this rotation produces in the electric turbine generator (4) an electromotive force (fem ). The brake (41) is also illustrated in greater detail.

Figure 9- Shows another embodiment, with the float (6) on its own support structure (1), separated from the rest of the module.

Claims (6)

1. A wave energy converter module, comprising at least: • A support structure (1), with at least one point linked to the seabed (9) that restricts at least its vertical movement. • A waterproof housing (5), supported by the support structure (1). • A float (6). • A computer (8) that governs the module processes, with their corresponding peripherals. • A coupling-decoupling system (7) that is made up of at least: • Coupling mechanism (26) linked to the float. • Gantry structure (38). • Lower pulley (39). • Upper pulley (40). • Reel (32). • Reversible ratchet (31). • Brake (41). • Transmitter cable (30) to which the coupling mechanism (26) is coupled and disengaged and having at least one anchor point (19) to the active mass. • Computer peripherals (8) corresponding to this system. The module is further characterized by comprising, within the waterproof housing (5), the following technical elements: • An inner duct (2) that divides the volume of the waterproof housing (5) into two parts, these two parts are communicated in their lower part by the lower openings (45) and in their upper part by the upper openings (46) . • At least one injector (15) equipped with its injector valve (42). • An active mass (3) that acts as a piston in the volume delimited by the inner duct (2), the waterproof housing (5), the active mass itself (3) and the injector valve (42) closed. A turbine type electric generator (4) linked to the generator support structure (21). This turbine type electric generator (4) is located in an aerodynamic housing (36). During the wave rise, the coupling mechanism (26) keeps the float (6) coupled to the transmission cable (30) at least in the vertical direction. The rising wave produces a thrust on the float (6) which transmits it through the coupling mechanism (26) to the transmitter cable (30). The transmitter cable (30) passes through the lower pulley (39), then through the upper pulley (40), crosses the waterproof housing (5) until it reaches the reversible ratchet (31), which allows the rotation in the direction of this movement. The transmitter cable (30) after exiting the ratchet, transmits through the anchor point (19) the tension to the active mass (3), raising its position and therefore, increasing the gravitational potential energy of the active mass (3) . During the wave descent, the coupling mechanism (26) keeps the float (6) of the transmitter cable (30) mechanically uncoupled, at least in the vertical direction, thus being the effect of the float (6) outside the vertical force system. The active mass (3) is subjected to the force of its weight, that force is transmitted by means of the anchor point (19) to the transmitter cable (30); the rotation that would induce this force, is locked in the reversible ratchet (31), with which the elevated position of the active mass (3) is maintained, that is, its gravitational potential energy is conserved. After one or several wave cycles as described, the active mass (3) is in an elevated position, sum of the elevations of each wave ascent and subjected to the force of its weight. At that time the restricted rotation in the ratchet (31) is released while the coupling mechanism (26) keeps the float (6) mechanically uncoupled from the transmitter cable (30), at least in a vertical direction, whereby the transmitter cable (30) does not transmit voltage to the active mass (3) and follows its downward movement, dragged by the anchor point (19); the spool (32) during the downward movement of the active mass (3) releases the length of the transmitter cable (30), picking up the cable length, in the upward movement. The active mass (3) acts as a piston in the volume delimited by the inner duct (2), the waterproof housing (5), the active mass itself (3) and the injector valve (42) in the closed position. From the situation of incompressibility of the fluid, its pressure is increased. When the fluid reaches a certain pressure, the injector valve (42) is opened, the fluid being injected through the injector (15) to the blades (17) of the turbine-type electric generator (4) which generates electrical energy that it is removed using the extraction cable (16). The active mass (3) during its vertical movement is always at a higher level than the lower openings (45) and at a lower level than the upper openings (46). On the gantry structure (38) are supported: lower pulley (39), upper pulley (40), reel (32), reversible ratchet (31) and brake (41). The electric generator (4) is supported on the generator support structure (21). The gantry structure (38) and the generator support structure (21) are linked to the lower base of the waterproof housing (14). 2. A converter module as described in claim 1, further comprising: Bearing plane (12), which allows the rotation between the lower base of the waterproof housing (14) and the upper base of the support structure (11). Brake (41) that regulates the speed of the active mass (3) through the transmitter cable (30). An anchor point blocker (18) that allows the anchor to work on the seabed either as a patella or as a recess. 3. A converter module as described in claims 1 and 2, which has a valve in the float (28) lower valves of the waterproof housing (24), upper valves of the waterproof housing (44) internal duct valve ( 43), cover valve (47). 4. A converter as described in claims 1, 2 and 3, which has a height adjustment mechanism against the tides, formed by the retractable shaft (10) of the support structure (1), a lock ( 33) and the coupling-decoupling system (7). 5. Another embodiment of the converter module described in claims 1, 2, 3 and 4, wherein the technical elements are arranged spatially separated into groups. The groups share the transmitter cable (30) and the coupling-decoupling system (7). The first group contains at least: • Float (6) • Support structure (1) • Waterproof case (5) • Computer (8) • Anchorage to the seabed (9) • Bearing plane (12) • Coupling mechanism (26) • Mesh structure (27) • Gag (29) • Reel (32) • Seabed base (37) • Gantry structure (33) • Lower pulley (39) • Upper pulley (40) The second group (or groups) contains at least: • Electric generator (turbine) (4) • Support structure (1) • Inner duct (2) • Active mass (3) • Waterproof case (5) • Computer (8) • Anchorage to the seabed (9) • Injector (15) • Extraction cable (16) • Bottom valves of the watertight housing (24) • Reversible ratchet (31) • Transformers (35) • Seabed base (37) • Gantry structure (38) • Lower pulley (39) • Upper pulley (40) • Brake (41) • Injector valve (42) • Inner duct valve (43) • Upper valves of the watertight housing (44) • Lower openings (45) • Upper openings (46) • Cover valve (47) 6. An electrical generation system using several converter modules as described in claims 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, which enables a joint electrical generation, from the combination of the generations of each module.