ITMI20100119A1 - DEVICE FOR GENERATING ELECTRIC ENERGY FROM WAVE MOTION - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

Attached to a patent application for INDUSTRIAL INVENTION having the title

"DEVICE FOR GENERATING ELECTRICITY FROM MOTORCYCLES

ONDOSO "

The present invention relates to a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion.

It is known to produce devices for generating electrical energy from the wave motion of the sea or other water basins of adequate width, comprising at least one float associated with one or more hydraulic cylinders which, by exploiting the relative movement of the float, pump oil under pressure and rotate a hydraulic motor. which transmits the rotation to an electric generator.

The use of hydraulic systems in known devices strongly limits the energy efficiency, making it not convenient to face the costs for the materials and for the installation of the device.

035,461,862 shows an example of a device in which an attempt was made to limit the aforementioned drawback. The final result is not satisfactory as the performance is in any case limited by the presence of hydraulic devices.

In this context, the technical task underlying the present invention is to propose a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks of the known art.

In particular, it is an object of the present invention to make available a device for generating electrical energy from the wave motion capable of obtaining higher yields, such as to justify the effort of making, installing and maintaining such a device.

A further object of the present invention is to propose a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion which is simplified and of limited size, which is easy to install and can be used in numerous embodiments to adapt to the different configurations of the coast or of the open sea.

The specified technical task and the specified purposes are substantially achieved by a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion, comprising the technical characteristics set out in one or more of the appended claims.

Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become clearer from the indicative, and therefore non-limiting, description of a preferred but not exclusive embodiment of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which:

Figures 1-3 are schematic sectional views of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to respective embodiments;

Figure 4 is a schematic side view of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

- figure 4a is a schematic top view (according to arrow A of figure 4) and partially in section of the device for generating electric energy from the wave motion of figure 4;

Figure 5 is a schematic sectional view of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion comprising two possible embodiments;

Figure 6 is a partially sectioned schematic view of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment (the hatched portions simultaneously illustrate two possible embodiments illustrated in detail in the subsequent drawings);

Figures 7-9 are schematic cross-sectional views, respectively, side, front and top of a portion of a device for generating electrical energy from the wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 10 is a schematic front sectional view of a portion of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 11 is a schematic sectional view of a portion of a device for generating electrical energy from the wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 12 is a partially sectioned schematic view of a portion of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

- figures 13 and 14 are schematic views respectively in lateral and top section of a portion of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 15 is a schematic sectional view of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 16 is a schematic sectional view of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

- figure 17 is a top view of the device of figure 16;

- figures 18 and 19 show schematic cross-sectional views respectively of the side and front (view from A of figure 18) of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 20 illustrates a schematic side view of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 21 illustrates an enlarged detail of Figure 20;

Figure 22 illustrates an enlarged detail of Figure 21;

Figure 23 illustrates a partially sectioned schematic front view of a portion of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment;

Figure 24 illustrates a possible variant embodiment of the portion of the device of Figure 23;

Figure 25 illustrates a schematic top view, partially in section, of the portion of the device of Figure 23;

Figure 26 illustrates an exploded schematic view of the components of a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion according to a possible embodiment.

Figures 1-4 illustrate some possible applications and embodiments of a device for generating electrical energy from the wave motion of the sea, ocean or other reservoir, according to the present invention.

Figure 1 illustrates a movable element under the action of the wave motion, for example a float 1 connected to an arm 2 pivoted by means of a pin 3 to a frame 4 of a floating breakwater 4a. The float breaker defines a relative reference system with respect to which the float moves, as a function of the wave motion.

Preferably the floating wave breaker 4a comprises a plane 5 which extends below the float 1. In particular, the plane 5 is arranged inclined with respect to a waterline G. The presence of the plane 5 is optional in order to recreate the conditions of motion waves on the shallow water, particularly advantageous in order to obtain electricity. In fact, when the wave meets the shallow water, the high volume of water that constitutes the wave moves horizontally.

The plane 5 can be applied to any embodiment in particular if the float is distant from the bottom. In general terms, plan 5 is associated with the relative reference. With reference to Figure 1, the wave motion causes the alternating rotation R of the float 1 and of the arm 2 around the relative pin 3. This rotation is exploited for the production of electricity by means of an electric generator of which in Figure 1 only the electrical connection 6 to an electrical line external to the device.

The buoyancy of the wave breaker allows the relative position of the pin 3 to be maintained unchanged with respect to the waterline G as the tide varies.

Figure 2 shows a movable element, for example a float 1 with an arm 2 connected by a pin 3 to the coast or to a pier 7 for example by means of the frame 4. In this case the relative reference system is a reference system fixed.

Means are provided to limit the movement, in particular the rotation, of the float 1. Preferably, a lower limit switch 8 and an upper limit switch 9 are provided to limit the angle of alternate rotation of the float and of the relative arm in the case of storm surges. In the application of figure 2 it is possible to directly exploit the effect of the shallow water.

The limit switches can be applied to any embodiment, for example those illustrated in the attached figures. Advantageously, the limit switches, in particular the upper limit switch, can be made in such a way as to accumulate energy during movement in one direction of the mobile element and to return it during movement in the opposite direction.

With reference to Figure 2, the wave motion causes the alternate rotation R of the float 1 and of the arm 2 around the relative pin 3 until it meets the upper or lower limit switch.

Figure 3 shows a movable element, for example a float 1 having a different shape from that of the floats of figures 1 and 2. The arm 2 of the float is connected for example to a frame 4 of a dock 10 by means of a pin 3. Also in figure 3 the relative reference system is fixed. The waterline G in most conditions is less than pin 3.

A counterweight 11 is preferably provided. The counterweight is optional and can be applied to any other embodiment, for example those illustrated in the attached figures. The limit switches illustrated in Figure 2 can also be applied to the embodiment of Figure 3.

The wave motion causes the alternate rotation R of the float 1 and of the arm 2 around the relative pin 3.

Figures 4 and 4a show another possible example of the device according to the present invention. Two or more movable elements in the form of floats 1 are hinged together by means of pins 3 and are arranged along the waterline G. The floats are moored for example by means of a catenary 12 to the bottom 13. The relative reference system of a float is defined by the adjacent float.

The wave motion causes the relative alternating rotation R of two adjacent floats around the relative pivot in common. 6a and 6b indicate electrical connections to the power line. In particular, the electrical connections indicated with 6a are associated with respective electrical generators 14 for example arranged in axis with the pin 3, in particular with portions 3a and 3b of the pin 3 (see for example Figure 4a). The left-hand portion of figures 4 and 4a therefore illustrates a possible embodiment of the device according to the present invention in which the rotation of the float, in particular of the pin 3, is transmitted to an electric generator 14 by means of a mechanical type transmission. This mechanical transmission comprises a free wheel 15 for each generator having opposite operation, ie suitable for transmitting rotations in opposite directions to the respective electric generator 14. The rotation of each rotor is unidirectional. For example, one free wheel is suitable for transmitting a clockwise rotation of the pin (lowering of the pin in an absolute reference system) while the other free wheel is suitable for transmitting an anticlockwise rotation of the pin (lifting of the pin in an absolute reference system). ). In the case illustrated, an electric generator exploits a relative rotation between two adjacent floats corresponding to a lifting of the connecting pin between the two floats, while the other electric generator exploits a relative rotation between two adjacent floats corresponding to a lowering of the connecting pin between the two floats. two floats. The free wheels 15 are interposed between each portion 3a, 3b of the pin 3 and a rotor of the relative electric generator 14 so as to decouple the movement between the pin and the rotor when a rotation equal to or greater than that of the rotor is not applied to the pin. In particular, the free wheels allow the rotor to always rotate in the same direction to avoid inertia of inversion of the motion. A multiplier 15a, for example epicyclic, can also be provided, interposed between the free wheel and the rotor of the corresponding electric generator.

The pin 3, and in particular each of its portions 3a, 3b, is keyed to one of the floats while the electric generator 14 is housed in the adjacent float. Preferably one of the floats is made in the form of a fork defining two arms 2.

In general terms, the device illustrated in the left portion of figures 4 and 4a comprises two electric generators 14 arranged in axis with the pin 3 of the mobile element with the interposition of at least one respective free wheel and / or other mechanical transmissions suitable for converting the rotation alternates the movable element in a clockwise unidirectional rotation of the rotor of one of the electric generators 14 and in a counterclockwise unidirectional rotation of the rotor of the other electric generator 14 to exploit both directions of the movement of the movable element.

Alternatively, a single electric generator can be provided, arranged in axis with the pivot of the mobile element with the interposition of at least one free wheel and / or other mechanical transmissions suitable for converting the alternate rotation of the mobile element into a unidirectional rotation of the generator rotor. electric, exploiting only one direction of relative rotation between two adjacent floats.

The electrical connection indicated by 6b is associated with an electrical generator, not shown, arranged on an axis different from that of the pin 3, preferably an axis parallel to the pin 3. The right-hand portion of figures 4 and 4a therefore illustrates a possible embodiment of the device according to the present invention different from that illustrated in the left portion. The two embodiments are illustrated in the same device even if a device according to the present invention will preferably contain embodiments of the same type. According to this last embodiment, the mechanical transmission interposed between the mobile element (float) and the electric generator comprises an arm 2 in the form of a fork associated with a float, to which a first rod 16 or small link is pivoted. A second rod 17, for example in the form of a fork, is pivoted to the first rod 16 and is keyed to a first shaft 18 mounted on a frame 4 of the float adjacent to the one supporting the arm 2. The respective connecting pins between the arm 2 and the first rod 16 and between the first rod 16 and the second rod 17. The rotor of the electric generator can be connected, for example by means of a free wheel, to the first shaft 18 or to a second shaft 21 The transmission of rotation between the first and second shaft is of the mechanical type and preferably achieves at least one multiplication of the number of revolutions. The exploitation of the relative rotation of the floats can take place during the lifting and / or lowering of the float itself. Optionally, two electric generators with relative free wheels (or similar devices) can be provided in which one generator exploits relative rotation in one direction and the other generator exploits relative rotation in the opposite direction.

Figure 5 simultaneously illustrates two possible, preferably alternative embodiments of means for limiting the movement, preferably the rotation, of the movable (floating) element. These means are preferably adapted to accumulate energy during the rotation of the float in one direction (preferably during the lifting phase) and to return it during the rotation of the float in the other direction (preferably the lowering phase). In general terms, these means are preferably adapted to accumulate energy during the movement of the movable element in one direction and to return it during movement in the other direction.

One of the two embodiments (right-hand portion in Figure 5) illustrates at least one cylinder 22, for example oleodynamic, suitable for opposing the movement of the mobile element (the rotation of the float 1). A single cylinder may be provided arranged on one of the two parts of the pin 3 or two or more cylinders arranged on the same side with respect to the pin 3 or on opposite sides as illustrated in Figure 5. The cylinder 22, in particular its rod, is hinged to arm 2 of float 1.

By connecting at least one cylinder 22 to a pneumatic cylinder 23 with gas under pressure (nitrogen), energy is accumulated during the movement of the movable element in one direction (lifting of the float) which is returned during the movement of the movable element in the other direction ( lowering of the float).

The other embodiment (left-hand portion in Figure 5) comprises one or more weights 24 connected at different heights to a frame 25. In the illustrated example, three weights are provided which are suitable to be intercepted and lifted in sequence by the movable element ( float) during movement in one direction, for example when lifting. With reference to a float, the interception of the weights sequentially increases the potential energy acquired by the float in lifting. In the illustrated example, the weights 24 are hung on the frame 25 in correspondence with slots 26 which allow them to slide upwards. A lower limit switch 8 and an upper limit switch 9 can be provided to limit the excursion of the arm 2 or of the float 1.

Figure 6 illustrates a further embodiment suitable to be applied to a mobile element (for example a float) pivoted to the coast or to a pier 7 (fixed reference system) in which means are provided for modifying the height of the pin. 3 as a function of the variation in the height of the waterline G during the different phases of the tide. In the example illustrated, a double-acting hydraulic cylinder 27 is provided, for example, arranged between the coast (or the pier or the pier, in general the fixed reference system) and the frame 4. M has indicated the possible variation of the height of the waterline G as a function of the tide and with m the possible variation of the height of the pin 3 due to the action of the cylinder 27 has been indicated. One or more cylinders can be provided.

The present invention generally relates to a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion comprising a mechanical transmission functionally interposed between a mobile element as a function of the wave motion (for example the float 1, the arm 2, the pin 3, or one of the others embodiments illustrated later) and an electric generator rotor 14. The element is mobile with respect to a relative reference system which can be of the mobile type (floating breakwater, floats pivoted in sequence) or of the fixed type (jetty, coast, pier ).

Advantageously, between the mobile element and the rotor of the electric generator there is functionally interposed exclusively a transmission of the mechanical type, directly connected with the mobile element and the rotor itself in the absence of pumps and / or hydraulic motors suitable for converting the kinetic energy of the rotational wave motion of the rotor.

For example, the mobile element is hinged with the pin 3 to the frame 4 of the relative reference system by means of the arm 2 and the mechanical transmission transmits the rotation of the pin 3 and / or of the arm 2 to the rotor of the electric generator 14. The mechanical transmission it can also be suitable for multiplying the motion of the movable element, for example the number of revolutions of the pin 3 to adapt to the characteristics of the electric generator.

The mechanical transmission is preferably adapted to transform the alternate motion (preferably alternate rotation) of the mobile element into a unidirectional (or only one direction) rotation of the rotor of the electric generator.

The mechanical transmission and preferably also the electric generator can be housed inside the frame 4.

Figure 6 illustrates in broken lines two possible embodiments of the mechanical transmission whose numerical references, although indicated in Figure 6, will be explained later. The two embodiments are alternatives to each other.

A first embodiment anticipated in Figure 6 is illustrated in detail in Figures 7-9 in which the alternate motion of the mobile element (alternate rotation of the float 1 and of the pin 3) is transmitted to the first shaft 18 by means of a first rod 16 or small link pivoted to the arm 2 and to the second rod 17 in turn pivoted to the first rod 16 and keyed to the first shaft 18. The second rod 17 is for example made in the form of a fork. With 19 and 20 are indicated respectively the connecting pins between the arm 2 and the first rod 16 and between the first and the second rod 17. The arm 2, the first rod 16 and the second rod 17 define a first mechanical transmission operating between the float 1 and the first shaft 18. The first shaft 18 is subjected to alternate rotation in both directions. Furthermore, the first shaft 18 is subjected to a rotation concordant with the pin 3.

The alternate rotation of the first shaft 18 is transmitted to a rotor of an electric generator, not shown in Figures 7-9, so that the rotor rotates only in one direction (unidirectional rotation).

The embodiment illustrated in figures 7-9 can be applied to any arrangement of float, for example those illustrated in the attached figures, or of a mobile element according to the wave motion.

Preferably, the rotation of the first shaft 18 is further transmitted and possibly multiplied to a second shaft, not shown in Figures 7-9, interposed between the first shaft 18 and the rotor of the electric generator. Alternatively, the rotation of the first shaft 18 is transmitted to the rotor of the electric generator preferably by means of transforming the alternate motion (preferably alternate rotation) of the movable element into a rotation in a single direction of the rotor of the electric generator. An example of such means is represented by a free wheel as illustrated in figure 4a or in the following figures.

An example of mechanical transmission according to the present invention comprising a first shaft 18 and a second shaft 21 is illustrated in figure 10. The first transmission operating between the float 1 (or the pin 3) and the first shaft 18 can be realized as illustrated in the figures 7-9 or as illustrated in figure 10 by means of a gear 28 comprising a first toothed wheel 29 keyed to the pin 3 and a second toothed wheel 30 keyed to the first shaft 18. With reference to figures 7-9, the first shaft 18 rotates in the same direction as pin 3.

With reference to Figure 10, the first shaft 18 rotates in the opposite direction to the pin 3. The first gear 28 defines a first transmission operating directly between the float 1 and the first shaft 18. The first and second toothed wheels 29, 30 can be made in such a way as to multiply the number of revolutions between the pin 3 and the first shaft 18.

A second mechanical transmission transmits the rotation from the first shaft 18 to the second shaft 21.

In the example illustrated in Figure 10, the second mechanical transmission interposed between the first and the second shaft comprises a primary transmission 31 suitable for transmitting to the second shaft 21 a rotation in the same direction as the first shaft 18 and a secondary transmission 32 suitable for transmitting to the second shaft 21 a rotation in the opposite direction with respect to the rotation of the first shaft 18. The primary mechanical transmission and the secondary mechanical transmission operate selectively and alternately on the second shaft 21 so as to make it rotate always in the same direction. The primary mechanical transmission and the secondary mechanical transmission operate selectively on the same rotor. The secondary mechanical transmission 32 comprises a secondary gear formed by a first secondary toothed wheel 33 keyed to the first shaft 18 and a second secondary toothed wheel 34 connected to the second shaft 21 by means of a free wheel 35.

The secondary gear can be made in such a way as to multiply the number of revolutions between the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 21. In the case of Figure 10 there is a double multiplication carried out by the gear 28 and by the secondary gear.

The primary mechanical transmission 31 comprises a first and second primary gear 36, 37 made from a first primary gear wheel 38 keyed to the first shaft 18, a second primary gear wheel 39 and a third primary gear wheel 40 connected to the second shaft 21 by means of a wheel free 41. The three gear wheels mesh in sequence.

The primary and secondary mechanical transmission can be present at the same time or one of the two can be optional. The simultaneous presence of the primary and secondary mechanical transmission makes it possible to exploit the motion in both directions of the mobile element. In the absence of one of the two transmissions, it is possible to exploit only the raising or lowering of float 1 to avoid inversion of the direction of rotation of the rotor of the electric generator.

The second mechanical transmission operates between the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 21 so that the second shaft 21 always rotates in the same direction. The two free wheels 35, 41 are suitable for transmitting rotations in the same direction between the relative toothed wheel and the second shaft 21. With reference to figure 10, when the arm 2 is raised, the pin 3 performs a counter-clockwise rotation (observing the device according to arrow F). Consequently, the first shaft 18 rotates clockwise. The second secondary sprocket 34 rotates counterclockwise while the third primary sprocket 40 rotates clockwise. The free wheel 35 corresponding to the second secondary toothed wheel 34 is suitable for transmitting the anti-clockwise rotation to the rotor (indicated by reference 42) of the electric generator 14 while the free wheel 41 corresponding to the third primary toothed wheel 40 is suitable for avoiding the transmission of the clockwise rotation of the rotor.

When the arm 2 is lowered, the pin 3 performs a clockwise rotation (observing the device according to the arrow F). Consequently, the first shaft 18 rotates counterclockwise. The second secondary sprocket 34 rotates clockwise while the third primary sprocket 40 rotates counterclockwise. The free wheel 35 corresponding to the second secondary toothed wheel 34 is suitable for avoiding the transmission of the clockwise rotation to the rotor while the free wheel 41 corresponding to the third primary toothed wheel 40 is suitable for transmitting the anti-clockwise rotation to the rotor. The rotor always rotates counterclockwise.

In general terms, the present invention relates to a device for generating electrical energy from wave motion in which the aforementioned mechanical transmission comprises at least the first shaft 18, preferably at least the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 21. Advantageously, the aforementioned mechanical transmission is suitable for converting the alternating movement of the mobile element in a preferably multiplied rotation of the first shaft 18. The mechanical transmission is further adapted to transmit the rotation of the first shaft 18 to the rotor of the electric generator, preferably by interposition of the second shaft 21. Advantageously, the mechanical transmission can comprise a primary transmission 31, a secondary transmission 32 comprising an inversion of motion with respect to the primary transmission 31, a free wheel 41 associated with the primary transmission 31 and a free wheel 35 associated with the secondary transmission 32. The two free wheels are suitable for transm rotate in the same direction to a single electric generator to exploit the motion in both directions of the mobile element. Advantageously, the primary transmission 31 and the secondary transmission 32 are made in such a way as to modify the multiplication ratio in the two directions of movement of the movable element.

With reference to Figure 10, 43 indicates a preferably epicyclic multiplier interposed for example between the second shaft 21 and the electric generator 14. The presence of the multiplier 43 is optional, depending on the final multiplication ratio to be obtained.

It is also possible to provide a flywheel 44 keyed to the rotor of the electric generator 14.

The gear 28 can be replaced by a gear train for the purpose of increasing the multiplication ratio. The planetary multiplier can be eliminated and the flywheel can act as a joint between the second shaft 21 and the rotor 42.

Figure 11 illustrates a device according to the present invention conceptually similar to that illustrated in Figure 10. A first difference lies in the fork shape of the arm 2 whose prongs fit on the pin 3. Furthermore, the right-hand portion of Figure 11 illustrates a possible embodiment in which the electric generator 14 is connected to the first shaft 18 for example by means of a free wheel 47 and a planetary multiplier 43. The left-hand portion of Figure 11 instead illustrates another possible arrangement of the electric generator 14 in which the flywheel 44 also acts as a coupling. The two embodiments illustrated at the same time in Figure 11 are alternatives to each other.

Figure 12 illustrates a possible embodiment in which the rotor of the electric generator 14 (in the case of figure 12 two electric generators) is coaxially aligned, v with the pin 3. This embodiment can be advantageously applied with reference to the pivoted floats shown together for example in Figure 4, 4a. The arm 2 is keyed to the pin 3 which, by means of a free wheel 48 and a planetary multiplier 43, transmits the rotation only in one direction to the generator 14. A flywheel 44 can be provided. The right-hand portion is similar but with a free wheel 48 'which transmits rotation in a direction opposite to the free wheel 48 illustrated in the left-hand portion. In this way, one of the two electric generators exploits a clockwise rotation of the pin while the other electric generator exploits an anticlockwise rotation of the pin.

Also in this case it is possible to modify the multiplication ratio in the two rotations using two different multipliers.

Figures 13 and 14 illustrate a mobile element as a function of the wave motion 49 pivoted to a base 50 anchored to the seabed 13. Preferably the mobile element 49 is made in the shape of a C with two arms 51 respectively hinged to the base 50 and a central portion 52 suitable to oppose the wave motion. The pin 3 to which the movable element 49 is keyed is aligned with an electric generator 14 for example by means of a free wheel 53 and multiplier 54.

Figure 15 illustrates a possible embodiment of the device according to the invention in which means are provided for limiting access to the inside of the frame 4. At least one fixed screen 55 is integral with the frame 4 and at least one movable screen 56 is integral. to the float 1 or in general to the mobile element as a function of the wave motion. The shape of the two screens, preferably with a circular sector, allows their relative rotation on each other, thus limiting access to the inside of the frame 4. In the completely lowered position of the float, as shown for example in figure 15, the two screens have respective overlapping portions 57 whereby the opening 58 within which the movable element moves (swings arm 2} is not accessible.

Figures 16 and 17 show a device comprising two or more floats 1 hinged to a frame 4. The transmission of motion from the pin 3 to the first and second shafts 18, 19 can be realized according to one of the embodiments previously illustrated. Furthermore, a third and fourth shafts 59, 60 are provided, connected by means of roller chains 61 or other similar transmissions (toothed crowns, toothed belts, etc.). The electric generators 14 are connected to the third and fourth shafts with interposition of free wheels. This solution lends itself particularly to being adopted on wharves or breakwaters of a port equipped to produce electrical energy from wave motion, modulating the production of energy according to the needs and / or according to the power transmitted by the waves.

Figures 18 and 19 illustrate a possible embodiment of the mechanical transmission for example interposed between the pin 3 / arm 2 and the first shaft 18. A rack 62 is hinged to the arm 2 by means of a pin 63. A watertight box 64 accommodates the rack 62, or at least its toothed portion, and a toothed wheel 65 keyed to the first shaft 18. At least one contrast roller has been indicated at 66 which keeps the rack correctly engaged with the toothed wheel.

Figure 20 illustrates a possible variant in which the movable element is made for example in the form of a blade 67 hinged to a frame 4. The mechanical transmission also has some differences and includes a sawtooth transmission suitable for exploiting the motion in the two. directions of the blade 67 by transmitting a one-way rotation to the first shaft 18. The mechanical transmission is illustrated in more detail in figures 21 and 22.

A first rod 68 and a second rod 69 are respectively hinged at 70 and 71 to the arm 2 integral with the blade 67. Each rod comprises a sawtooth toothing preferably mutually facing. The toothing of the first rod 68 is overturned with respect to the toothing of the second rod 69. Between the two rods there is a toothed wheel 72 keyed to the first shaft 18. Elastic means 73, for example a spring, join the two free ends of the rods to maintain correct meshing with the toothed wheel.

As illustrated in Figure 22, the counter-clockwise rotation of the blade 67 and of the arm 2 causes the rods to be raised. The first rod 68 meshes with the toothed wheel 72 causing it to rotate clockwise. The second rod slides on the sprocket. Subsequently, the clockwise rotation of the blade 67 and of the arm 2 causes the rods to be lowered. The second rod 69 meshes with the toothed wheel 72 causing it to rotate clockwise. The first rod 68 slides on the toothed wheel.

The first rod 68 is located at a distance from the pin 3 smaller than the distance at which the second rod 69 is located. This difference causes a difference in the multiplication ratio between the clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the blade.

Figure 23 illustrates a front view of the sawtooth transmission showing the pin 3, the arm 2, the pin 70 to which the first rod 68 is hinged, the toothed wheel 72, the elastic means 73 and the first shaft 18 to which the toothed wheel 72 is keyed. In the example of figure 23 the electric generator 14 is arranged in axis with the first shaft 18. The first shaft 18 transmits its rotation in one direction only to a planetary multiplier 43 interposed between the first shaft 18 and the electric generator 14. A flywheel 44 may be provided.

Figure 24 illustrates a possible variant of Figure 23 in which, in addition to the first saw tooth transmission, a second gear transmission is provided. The two rods (the first of which has been illustrated) transmit a rotation in one direction only to the toothed wheel 72 and to the first shaft 18. A gear 74 comprising a first toothed wheel 75 and a second toothed wheel 76 transmits the rotation to the second shaft 21 preferably by applying a multiplication ratio. A joint 77 is interposed between the second shaft 21 and the rotor 42 of the electric generator 14.

Figure 25 illustrates a partially sectional top view of the sawtooth transmission showing pin 3, arm 2, first shaft 18, sprocket 72, first rod 68 and second rod 69.

Figure 26 schematically illustrates the components of a possible embodiment of the device according to the present invention which provides for the saw tooth transmission in association with a float 1. The arm 2 is hinged at 3 to the frame 4. The first rod 68 and the second rod 69 are respectively pivoted at 70 and 71 to the arm 2. The elastic means 73 maintain the meshing between the two rods and the toothed wheel 72 keyed to the first shaft 18. The transmission between the first shaft 18 and the second shaft 21 can be made by means of the gear 74 or a train of gears which increases its multiplication ratio.

The device according to the present invention can be made in different forms by modifying one or more of the elements described with reference to the attached figures. In addition to the variants already indicated in the course of the description, for example it can be generically provided that the mechanical transmission comprises at least one free wheel and / or a sawtooth transmission and / or other mechanical transmissions suitable for converting the motion of the mobile element into a unidirectional rotation of the rotor of the electric generator, exploiting one or both directions of the motion of the mobile element.

Advantageously, the mechanical transmission can comprise at least one multiplication carried out by means of ratios internal to the mechanical transmission and / or by means of a multiplier preferably of the epicyclic type for example keyed to the rotor of the electric generator.

Advantageously, means can be provided for differentiating the multiplication ratio in the two directions of movement of the movable element. More specifically, the motion of the movable element in one direction, for example in the upward phase in the example of Figure 5, can be transmitted with a multiplication ratio greater than the multiplication ratio implemented during the motion of the movable element in the other sense. The primary transmission and the secondary transmission can be made in such a way as to differentiate and / or modify the multiplication ratio between the lifting phase and the lowering phase of the float. It is thus possible to optimize the exploitation of the available energy respectively during the lifting and lowering phases of the float 1, or the outward and return phases of the central portion 52 in the example of figure 13, or of the blade element 67 in the example. of figure 20.

Furthermore, a single electric generator can be provided by exploiting only one direction of movement of the mobile element or by exploiting both directions of movement of the mobile element as for example is provided in figure 10 or 11. Alternatively, two electric generators can be provided each associated with a sense of movement of the movable element.

Furthermore, in general terms, the mechanical transmission can comprise a first rod 16 or link and a second rod 17 preferably in the form of a fork, and / or at least one gear, preferably a gear train, and / or at least one rack 62 and / or at least one sawtooth transmission and / or at least one flywheel 44. Preferably the mechanical transmission is housed inside the frame 4 of the relative reference system.

One or more movable elements can be provided, either in the form of a float or in any other form. The general terms the device according to the present invention exploits the alternate movement in the two directions of the movable element, preferably its alternate rotation around a pin.

The term relative reference system has been used to indicate a reference system with respect to which the mobile element moves (wheel), for example a mobile reference system (floating wave breakers) or a fixed reference system (coast, pier, jetty).

Claims (14)

CLAIMS 1. Device for generating electrical energy from wave motion comprising: at least one element (1, 49, 67) mobile as a function of the wave motion with respect to a relative reference system, at least one electric generator (14) connectable to an electric line, a mechanical transmission functionally interposed between the mobile element (1, 49, 67) and a rotor (42) of the electric generator (14), said mechanical transmission being suitable for converting the motion of the mobile element into a rotation of the generator rotor . 2. Device according to claim 1, wherein said mechanical transmission is suitable for converting the motion of the mobile element into a unidirectional rotation of the generator rotor, and preferably comprises at least one free wheel (15; 35; 41; 47; 48; 48 '; 53) and / or a sawtooth transmission (68, 69, 72) and / or other mechanical transmissions suitable for converting the motion of the movable element (1, 49, 67) into a unidirectional rotation of the rotor ( 42) of the electric generator (14), exploiting one or both directions of motion of the mobile element, Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said mechanical transmission comprises at least one multiplication achieved by means of ratios internal to the mechanical transmission and / or by means of a multiplier (15a; 43; 54) preferably of the epicyclic type for example keyed to the rotor ( 42) of the electric generator (14), preferably in which means are provided for mutually differentiating the multiplication ratio in the two directions of movement of the mobile element. 4. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, in which said movable element is made in the form of a float (1) hinged to one or more adjacent floats or to a frame (4) of said relative reference system, or in which said movable element (49) is hinged to a base (50) anchored to the bottom (13), or in which said movable element is made in the form of a blade (67) hinged to a frame (4) of said relative reference system. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said movable element (1, 49, 67) is hinged with a pin (3) to a frame (4) of said relative reference system by means of an arm (2) and wherein said mechanical transmission transmits the rotation of the pin (3) and / or of the arm (2) to the rotor (42) of said electric generator (14). 6. Device according to claim 5, wherein said rotor (42) of the electric generator (14) is coaxially aligned with said pin (3) of the movable element (1, 49) preferably with the interposition of at least one free wheel (15; 48; 53) and / or other mechanical transmissions suitable for converting the alternate rotation of the movable element (1, 49) into a unidirectional rotation of the rotor (42) of the electric generator (14), or in which two electric generators (14) are arranged in axis with said pin (3) of the mobile element (1, 49) preferably with the interposition of at least one respective free wheel (15; 48; 53) and / or other mechanical transmissions suitable for converting the alternate rotation of the movable element (1, 49) into a clockwise unidirectional rotation of the rotor (42) of one of the electric generators (14) and into a counterclockwise unidirectional rotation of the rotor (42) of the other electric generator ( 14) to exploit both directions of the movement of the mobile element. 7. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said mechanical transmission comprises at least a first shaft (18), preferably at least a first shaft (18) and a second shaft (21), in which said mechanical transmission is suitable for converting the movement alternation of the movable element in a preferably multiplied rotation of the first shaft (18), wherein said mechanical transmission is further adapted to transmit the rotation of the first shaft (18) to the rotor (42) of the electric generator preferably by interposition of the second shaft (21), preferably in which the mechanical transmission comprises a primary transmission (31), a secondary transmission (32) comprising an inversion of motion with respect to the primary transmission (31), a free wheel (41) associated with the primary transmission (31) and a free wheel (35) associated with the secondary transmission (32), said wheels free being suitable for transmitting rotations in the same direction to a single electric generator to exploit the motion in both directions of the mobile element, and preferably in which the primary transmission (31) and the secondary transmission (32) are made in such a way as to modify the multiplication ratio in the two directions of movement of the movable element. 8. Device according to claim 7, wherein said mechanical transmission comprises a first rod (16) or link and a second rod (17) preferably in the form of a fork, and / or at least one gear (28; 36; 37) preferably a gear train, and / or at least one rack (62) and / or at least one sawtooth transmission and / or at least one flywheel (44), said mechanical transmission being preferably housed inside a frame (4) of the system relative reference. 9. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising means for limiting the movement, preferably the rotation, of the movable element (1, 49, 67), said means being preferably suitable for accumulating energy during movement in one direction and for restoring it during movement. movement in the other direction, wherein said means preferably comprise at least one cylinder (22) for example oleodynamic suitable to oppose the movement of the mobile element (1, 49, 67), preferably connected to a pneumatic cylinder (23) with gas under pressure, or in which said means comprise one or more weights (24) connected at different heights to a frame (25) and interceptable in sequence by the movable element (1, 49, 67), or in which said means comprise a lower (8) and / or upper (9) stop. 10. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising a plane (5) which extends below the movable element (1, 49, 67), preferably to the float (1), said plane (5) being inclined with respect to a line of buoyancy (G) to recreate the conditions of wave motion on the shallow seabed, said plane (5) being associated with the relative reference system, preferably with a floating breakwater (4a). Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising means for modifying the height of a pin (3) of the movable element (1, 49, 67) as a function of the variation of the height of a waterline (G) during the different phases of the tide, said means preferably comprising at least one double-acting hydraulic cylinder (27) for example arranged between a frame (4) on which the movable element (1, 49, 67) is pivoted and the relative reference system , preferably fixed. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising means for limiting access to the interior of a frame (4) on which the movable element (1, 49, 67) is mounted, in which said means preferably comprise at least a fixed screen (55) integral with the frame (4) and at least one mobile screen (56) integral with the mobile element (1, 49, 67), in which respective overlapping portions (57) are provided to prevent access to an opening (58) within which the movable element moves. 13. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said movable element (1, 49, 67) is subjected to an alternating rotation and optionally comprises a counterweight (11). 14. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, in which only said mechanical transmission is interposed between the movable element (1, 49, 67) and the rotor (42) of the electric generator (14).