Electronic data collection and data submission services for
business purposes in the fields of surface, and areas
adjacent to the sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway
using computers and sensors. Electronic data transmission using electronic or
telecommunications equipment located on and within buoys or
autonomous surface vessels on, under, adjacent to, or
bordering on a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway.
A system for charging electric vehicles on or near water includes a charging station and a shore station. The charging station comprises an aquatic structure which can be attached and/or moored to a shore and/or the ground/bed of the body of water, and receptacles that are assembled around the aquatic structure and connected to it. The receptacles are preferably all water-proof, and collectively house various components for allowing the recharging of an electric vehicle. The shore station is remote and mechanically disconnected from the charging station. The shore station is at least partially, if not entirely, above water and attached to the shore of the body of water, for example to a quayside. The shore station includes communication means that complement the communication means of the charging station.
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Telecommunications services, namely, electronic data transmission through the use of electronic equipment located on and within buoys distributed in bodies of water for receiving and transmitting electrical signals; providing cellular telephone services and telecommunication gateway services Custom manufacture of equipment for generating power from ocean waves; custom manufacture of autonomous surface vessels; custom manufacture of equipment in the nature of an electric power generator that generates power from ocean waves Product design and development in the field of systems for generating electrical power from wave energy; product design and development of autonomous surface vessels; product design and development of equipment in the nature of an electric power generator that generates power from ocean waves
A system for charging electric vehicles on or near water includes a charging station and a shore station. The charging station comprises an aquatic structure which can be attached and/or moored to a shore and/or the ground/bed of the body of water, and receptacles that are assembled around the aquatic structure and connected to it. The receptacles are preferably all water-proof, and collectively house various components for allowing the recharging of an electric vehicle. The shore station is remote and mechanically disconnected from the charging station. The shore station is at least partially, if not entirely, above water and attached to the shore of the body of water, for example to a quayside. The shore station includes communication means that complement the communication means of the charging station.
(1) Electronic data collection and data submission services for business purposes in the fields of surface, and areas adjacent to the sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway using computers and sensors.
(2) Electronic data transmission using electronic or telecommunications equipment located on and within buoys or autonomous surface vessels on, under, adjacent to, or bordering on a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway.
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
45 - Legal and security services; personal services for individuals.
Goods & Services
Electronic data collection and data submission services for business purposes in the fields of the surface, sub-surface, and areas adjacent to a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway using computers and sensors. Electronic data transmission using electronic or telecommunications equipment located on and within buoys or autonomous surface vessels on, under, adjacent to, or bordering on a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway Electronic data collection, namely, electronic monitoring of the surface, sub-surface, and areas adjacent to a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway using computers and sensors. Surveillance services relating to the surface, sub-surface, and areas adjacent to a sea, ocean, or other navigable waterway.
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
35 - Advertising and business services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Electronic data transmission through the use of electronic equipment located on and within buoys distributed in bodies of water for receiving and transmitting electrical signals or located on and with autonomous surface vessels; transfer of data by telecommunication; telecommunication gateway services using equipment on or within buoys and on or within autonomous surface vessels Custom manufacture of equipment platforms for data collection, surveillance, communications and for generating power from ocean waves Data collection and aggregation, namely, electronic data collection and data submission services for business purposes in the field of maritime domain awareness Product design and development in the field of systems for collecting data in marine environments and for generating electrical power from wave energy; data collection and aggregation, namely, electronic monitoring and reporting of maritime domain awareness data using computers or sensors
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
38 - Telecommunications services
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Electric power generators that generate power from ocean waves Equipment in the nature of a buoy being an apparatus for converting ocean wave energy into mechanical and electrical energy Telecommunications services, namely, electronic data transmission through the use of electronic equipment located on and within buoys distributed in bodies of water for receiving and transmitting electrical signals; providing cellular telephone services and telecommunication gateway services using equipment on or within buoys and on or within autonomous surface vessels Custom manufacture of equipment for generating power from ocean waves Product design and development in the field of systems for generating electrical power from wave energy
40 - Treatment of materials; recycling, air and water treatment,
12 - Land, air and water vehicles; parts of land vehicles
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Telecommunications services, namely, electronic data transmission through the use of electronic equipment located on and within buoys distributed in bodies of water for receiving and transmitting electrical signals; providing cellular telephone services and telecommunication gateway services Custom manufacture of equipment for generating power from ocean waves Autonomous surface vessels Product design and development in the field of systems for generating electrical power from wave energy
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Electric power generators that generate power from ocean waves Equipment in the nature of a buoy being an apparatus for converting ocean wave energy into mechanical and electrical energy
A dual-point absorber includes a first buoy, a second buoy, and a power take-off. The first buoy of the dual-point absorber is connected to a linkage. The second buoy of the dual-point absorber is capable of a movement relative to the first buoy. The power take-off is coupled to the first buoy and the second buoy. The linkage can be used to reduce a heave movement of the first buoy that is caused by waves.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A dual-point absorber includes a first buoy, a second buoy, and a power take-off. The first buoy of the dual-point absorber is connected to a linkage. The second buoy of the dual-point absorber is capable of a movement relative to the first buoy. The power take-off is coupled to the first buoy and the second buoy. The linkage can be used to reduce a heave movement of the first buoy that is caused by waves.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
A subsurface battery system includes a ballast mass at the seafloor, a deep-sea electronics module, having an interface to seafloor payloads, and a subsurface buoyant pressure vessel having a battery. The ballast mass is attached to the deep-sea electronics module. The deep-sea electronics module is connected to the battery. The subsurface buoyant pressure vessel is submerged to a water depth of approximately 50 meters to 500 meters. The system is used for powering the seafloor payloads.
A system includes a fuel burner disposed within a buoy, and at least one fuel tank coupled to the fuel burner. The fuel tank preferably contains ethanol or propane. The system comprises either a thermoelectric generator or an electrical generator mechanically coupled to a heat engine. The ethanol or propane is burned to generate electric power. At least a portion of the electric power that is generated is stored in a battery system so that the system can provide peak levels of electric power consumption that are relatively large. The system can be used in autonomous marine applications.
B63B 22/16 - Buoys specially adapted for marking a navigational route
F02G 1/043 - Hot gas positive-displacement engine plants of closed-cycle type the engine being operated by expansion and contraction of a mass of working gas which is heated and cooled in one of a plurality of constantly communicating expansible chambers, e.g. Stirling cycle type engines
H01L 35/30 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof operating with Peltier or Seebeck effect only characterised by the heat-exchanging means at the junction
B63B 35/44 - Floating buildings, stores, drilling platforms, or workshops, e.g. carrying water-oil separating devices
A system includes a fuel burner disposed within a buoy, and at least one fuel tank coupled to the fuel burner. The fuel tank preferably contains ethanol or propane. The system comprises either a thermoelectric generator or an electrical generator mechanically coupled to a heat engine. The ethanol or propane is burned to generate electric power. At least a portion of the electric power that is generated is stored in a battery system so that the system can provide peak levels of electric power consumption that are relatively large. The system can be used in autonomous marine applications.
B63B 35/44 - Floating buildings, stores, drilling platforms, or workshops, e.g. carrying water-oil separating devices
H02S 10/10 - PV power plantsCombinations of PV energy systems with other systems for the generation of electric power including a supplementary source of electric power, e.g. hybrid diesel-PV energy systems
H02S 10/20 - Systems characterised by their energy storage means
B63B 22/24 - Buoys container type, i.e. having provision for the storage of material
H01L 35/30 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof operating with Peltier or Seebeck effect only characterised by the heat-exchanging means at the junction
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
17.
High DC voltage to low DC voltage conversion apparatus including rechargeable batteries
A buffered power transfer apparatus includes rechargeable batteries. The buffered power transfer apparatus is used on demand to convert high voltage DC to low voltage DC at maximum efficiency with minimum standby losses. The buffered power transfer apparatus may be used in a Wave Energy Converter.
H02J 7/04 - Regulation of the charging current or voltage
H02J 7/16 - Regulation of the charging current or voltage by variation of field
H02J 7/14 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from dynamo-electric generators driven at varying speed, e.g. on vehicle
18.
POWER TAKE OFF SYSTEM FOR WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER BUOY
A power-take-off system for use in a wave energy converter buoy employs a meshing nut and screw shaft assembly for motion conversion. That is, the motion of the buoy float is coupled to drive the nut along the screw shaft on which it is mounted. The linear movement of the nut along the shaft causes the shaft to rotate and this rotational motion is then coupled to rotate an electrical generator.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F16H 25/22 - Screw mechanisms with balls, rollers, or similar members between the co-operating partsElements essential to the use of such members
19.
PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD FOR THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM OF A WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER
The electrical system of a Wave Energy Converter is built into a unitary Printed Circuit Board, thereby vastly simplifying the assembly process, reducing cost, and improving reliability. The unitary Printed Circuit Board integrates power electronics that handles power distribution, with sensors and command circuitry that controls battery charging, battery management, and provides protective features.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
F03B 13/26 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using tide energy
H02N 2/08 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing linear motion, e.g. actuatorsLinear positioners using travelling waves, e.g. linear motors
H01L 41/083 - Piezo-electric or electrostrictive elements having a stacked or multilayer structure
20.
HIGH DC VOLTAGE TO LOW DC VOLTAGE CONVERSION APPARATUS INCLUDING RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES
A buffered power transfer apparatus includes rechargeable batteries. The buffered power transfer apparatus is used on demand to convert high voltage DC to low voltage DC at maximum efficiency with minimum standby losses. The buffered power transfer apparatus may be used in a Wave Energy Converter.
G01R 31/36 - Arrangements for testing, measuring or monitoring the electrical condition of accumulators or electric batteries, e.g. capacity or state of charge [SoC]
H02J 7/02 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from AC mains by converters
21.
POWER TAKE OFF SYSTEM FOR WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER BUOY
A power-take-off system for use in a wave energy converter buoy employs a meshing nut and screw shaft assembly for motion conversion. That is, the motion of the buoy float is coupled to drive the nut along the screw shaft on which it is mounted. The linear movement of the nut along the shaft causes the shaft to rotate and this rotational motion is then coupled to rotate an electrical generator.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
22.
HIGH DC VOLTAGE TO LOW DC VOLTAGE CONVERSION APPARATUS INCLUDING RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES
A buffered power transfer apparatus includes rechargeable batteries. The buffered power transfer apparatus is used on demand to convert high voltage DC to low voltage DC at maximum efficiency with minimum standby losses. The buffered power transfer apparatus may be used in a Wave Energy Converter.
H02J 7/02 - Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from AC mains by converters
G01R 31/36 - Arrangements for testing, measuring or monitoring the electrical condition of accumulators or electric batteries, e.g. capacity or state of charge [SoC]
23.
Power take off system for wave energy converter buoy
A power-take-off system for use in a wave energy converter buoy employs a meshing nut and screw shaft assembly for motion conversion. That is, the motion of the buoy float is coupled to drive the nut along the screw shaft on which it is mounted. The linear movement of the nut along the shaft causes the shaft to rotate and this rotational motion is then coupled to rotate an electrical generator.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A mooring system for a plurality of wave energy converters (WECs) includes a multiplicity of anchors coupled to form an array of contiguous hexagonal shaped cells. Each cell has 3 WECs and 3 anchors located at the vertices of the hexagon, with a WEC alternating with an anchor going around the perimeter of the cell. Except for the cells at the edges of the array, each WEC is connected to two anchors of its cell and an anchor of an adjacent contiguous cell. Each WEC is connected to three different anchors via 3 mooring lines spaced 120 degrees apart about the WEC. The ratio of the number of anchors per WEC is decreased by connecting each anchor to more than one WEC. The cells can be arranged to form many different patterns. In one embodiment a plurality of WECs and anchors are deployed in a generally triangular formation extending from an apex of the triangular formation to a base.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
26.
Reaction mass and spring oscillator for wave energy converter
A reaction mass and a spring are configured to form an “oscillator”. The reaction mass is coupled to, and can wrap around, a first pulley via a first belt/cable. The spring is coupled to, and can wrap around, a second pulley via a second belt/cable. The first and second pulleys are mechanically linked together and are mounted so they rotate in tandem. The diameter of the second pulley is different than the diameter of the first pulley to cause the reaction mass to travel a different distance than the spring in response to the up down motion of the reaction mass. The first and second pulleys may be circular with the second pulley being made smaller than first. Alternatively, the first pulley may be circular and the second pulley a cam of varying radius.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
27.
Ocean wave energy converter including control system for disabling active rectification when generator output power is less than a conversion loss
An electric generator driven by a source of variable energy produces at its output an alternating current (AC) output voltage and current which is converted via controllable active switching circuitry into a direct current (DC) voltage which is stored in an energy storage element. Power losses are associated with the active switching circuit and the AC to DC conversion. The power available at the output of the generator can be determined. If the available power is less than the power losses the controllable switching circuitry is disabled.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
An anchoring enclosure embodying the invention includes a chamber whose buoyancy can be controlled by pumping a gas (e.g., air) or a liquid {e.g., sea water) into the chamber- The anchoring enclosure includes a bottom extension for embedding the anchoring enclosure into the sea bed. The anchoring enclosure may include a piping system for blowing a fluid below the bottom enclosure and raising the enclosure and/or an anti-scouring skirt extending about the perimeter of the lower portion of the structure and outward from the anchoring enclosure for resting along the bottom of the body of water and preventing water movement from disturbing the embedded bottom extension.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
29.
PITCH DRIVEN WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER DEVICES AND SYSTEMS
A wave energy converter (WEC) buoy includes at least one pitch-driven WEC ("PDWEC") device. Each PDWEC device includes two reaction masses which are placed at diametrically opposite ends of a container designed to float along the surface of a body of water and to move In response to the pitching motion of the waves. The reaction masses are interconnected so that when one reaction mass moves up, the diametrically opposed reaction mass moves down, and vice-versa. The movement of the reaction masses drives power take off (PTO) devices to produce useful energy. The reaction masses may be interconnected by any suitable linking system. One or more PDWEC device may be combined with a heave responsive device to produce a WEC buoy which can produce a power output in response to pitch or heave motion.
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes WEC devices which can function to produce useful energy (power) efficiently in response to heave motion and/or pitch motion and/or roll motion. Pitch responsive devices are deployed around the outer periphery of a container and one (or more) heave responsive device is located about the center of the container. The pitch responsive devices may be of the type defined as PDWECs which include two reaction masses which are primarily operable in response to pitching motion or they may be of the type which includes one reaction mass operable in response to pitch and/or heave motion,
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03G 7/08 - Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for recovering energy derived from swinging, rolling, pitching, or like movements, e.g. from the vibrations of a machine
31.
Pitch and heave driven wave energy converter system including cable supported reaction masses
A wave energy converter (WEC) buoy includes at least one pitch-driven WEC (“PDWEC”) device. Each PDWEC device includes two reaction masses which are placed at diametrically opposite ends of a container designed to float along the surface of a body of water and to move in response to the pitching motion of the waves. The reaction masses are interconnected so that when one reaction mass moves up, the diametrically opposed reaction mass moves down, and vice-versa. The movement of the reaction masses drives power take off (PTO) devices to produce useful energy. The reaction masses may be interconnected by any suitable linking system. One or more PDWEC device may be combined with a heave responsive device to produce a WEC buoy which can produce a power output in response to pitch or heave motion.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
F03B 11/00 - Parts or details not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups
Apparatus for connecting a power cable to a marine vessel which is subject to pitch, heave, roll and yaw motion includes a ball and socket device for decreasing the twisting and bending of the power cable. The socket is attached to the vessel and the ball can rotate freely Within the socket but its up down motion is restricted. The power cable's outer protective sheath is attached to the ball while its conductors pass through the ball and are connected to an internal connector. A flexible cable (wire) is connected between the internal connector and electrical equipment internal to the marine vessel.
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
B63B 21/00 - Tying-upShifting, towing, or pushing equipmentAnchoring
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
33.
Autonomously operated buoys with power generation and power usage control
Apparatus, intended to be deployed in a body of water, includes a payload comprised of a multiplicity of different electronic and electromechanical loads and a wave energy converter (WEC) system responsive to the amplitude of waves in the body of water for producing electrical power, which is a function of the wave amplitudes, to power the payload. The apparatus includes switching circuitry for controlling the application of power to selected ones of the loads. Control circuitry and devices which are responsive to the electric power being produced control the switching circuitry for controlling the amount of power supplied to, and consumed by, the loads.
B60L 1/00 - Supplying electric power to auxiliary equipment of electrically-propelled vehicles
B60L 3/00 - Electric devices on electrically-propelled vehicles for safety purposesMonitoring operating variables, e.g. speed, deceleration or energy consumption
H02G 3/00 - Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
F03B 13/00 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates
H02P 9/04 - Control effected upon non-electric prime mover and dependent upon electric output value of the generator
A wave energy converter (WEC) having an asymmetrically shaped float and a spar which move relative to each other in response to the waves. The asymmetrical float has one side longer than the other. A power take off device (PTO) is coupled between the asymmetric float and the spar for converting their relative motion into useful power. Apparatus is coupled to the WEC for: (a) orienting and rotating the longer side of the float to face and receive oncoming waves to increase energy capture when the waves have an amplitude below a predetermined value for improving the power generation of the WEC; and (b) rotating the float to orient the narrower side of the float to face and receive the incoming waves when the waves have an amplitude above a predetermined value, so as to reduce the forces to which the WEC is subjected.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
35.
PITCH DRIVEN WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER DEVICES AND SYSTEMS
A wave energy converter (WEC) buoy includes at least one pitch-driven WEC ("PDWEC") device. Each PDWEC device includes two reaction masses which are placed at diametrically opposite ends of a container designed to float along the surface of a body of water and to move In response to the pitching motion of the waves. The reaction masses are interconnected so that when one reaction mass moves up, the diametrically opposed reaction mass moves down, and vice-versa. The movement of the reaction masses drives power take off (PTO) devices to produce useful energy. The reaction masses may be interconnected by any suitable linking system. One or more PDWEC device may be combined with a heave responsive device to produce a WEC buoy which can produce a power output in response to pitch or heave motion.
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes WEC devices which can function to produce useful energy (power) efficiently in response to heave motion and/or pitch motion and/or roll motion. Pitch responsive devices are deployed around the outer periphery of a container and one (or more) heave responsive device is located about the center of the container. The pitch responsive devices may be of the type defined as PDWECs which include two reaction masses which are primarily operable in response to pitching motion or they may be of the type which includes one reaction mass operable in response to pitch and/or heave motion,
Apparatus, intended to be deployed in a body of water, includes a payload comprised of a multiplicity of different electronic and electromechanical loads and a wave energy converter (WEC) system responsive to the amplitude of waves in the body of water for producing electrical power, which is a function of the wave amplitudes, to power the payload. The apparatus includes switching circuitry for controlling the application of power to selected ones of the loads. Control circuitry and devices which are responsive to the electric power being produced control the switching circuitry for controlling the amount of power supplied to, and consumed by, the loads.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
H02J 13/00 - Circuit arrangements for providing remote indication of network conditions, e.g. an instantaneous record of the open or closed condition of each circuitbreaker in the networkCircuit arrangements for providing remote control of switching means in a power distribution network, e.g. switching in and out of current consumers by using a pulse code signal carried by the network
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
38.
WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER WITH ROTARY HYDRAULIC SPRING
The generally up and down movement of a reaction mass is converted into rotary motion which is used to drive a rotary hydraulic spring comprised of a rotary hydraulic pump motor and an accumulator to produce a "spring" function. The invention is particularly applicable to wave energy converters (WECs) having a reaction mass which needs to be coupled to a spring to ensure Its oscillation and to cause it to be centered about its center of travel. The linear up-down motion of a reaction mass may be converted via a linear-to-rotary translator to rotary motion to drive a rotary hydraulic pump/motor so as to provide spring action to the reaction mass and ensure its oscillation and proper positioning.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03G 7/08 - Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for recovering energy derived from swinging, rolling, pitching, or like movements, e.g. from the vibrations of a machine
Apparatus for connecting a power cable to a marine vessel which is subject to pitch, heave, roll and yaw motion includes a ball and socket device for decreasing the twisting and bending of the power cable. The socket is attached to the vessel and the ball can rotate freely within the socket but its up down motion is restricted. The power cable's outer protective sheath is attached to the ball while its conductors pass through the ball and are connected to an internal connector. A flexible cable (wire) is connected between the internal connector and electrical equipment internal to the marine vessel.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
F16L 5/00 - Devices for use where pipes, cables or protective tubing pass through walls or partitions
H01R 13/00 - Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups or
A wave energy converter (WEC) having an asymmetrically shaped float and a spar which move relative to each other in response to the waves. The asymmetrical float has one side longer than the other. A power take off device (PTO) is coupled between the asymmetric float and the spar for converting their relative motion into useful power. Apparatus is coupled to the WEC for: (a) orienting and rotating the longer side of the float to face and receive oncoming waves to increase energy capture when the waves have an amplitude below a predetermined value for improving the power generation of the WEC; and (b) rotating the float to orient the narrower side of the float to face and receive the incoming waves when the waves have an amplitude above a predetermined value, so as to reduce the forces to which the WEC is subjected.
There is no known WEC system with an asymmetrical float which is raised and lowered by the waves.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
41.
Multi-mode wave energy converter devices and systems
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes WEC devices which can function to produce useful energy (power) efficiently in response to heave motion and/or pitch motion and/or roll motion. Pitch responsive devices are deployed around the outer periphery of a container and one (or more) heave responsive device is located about the center of the container. The pitch responsive devices may be of the type defined as PDWECs which include two reaction masses which are primarily operable in response to pitching motion or they may be of the type which includes one reaction mass operable in response to pitch and/or heave motion.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
42.
Wave energy converter with rotary hydraulic spring
The generally up and down movement of a reaction mass is converted into rotary motion which is used to drive a rotary hydraulic spring comprised of a rotary hydraulic pump motor and an accumulator to produce a “spring” function. The invention is particularly applicable to wave energy converters (WECs) having a reaction mass which needs to be coupled to a spring to ensure its oscillation and to cause it to be centered about its center of travel. The linear up-down motion of a reaction mass may be converted via a linear-to-rotary translator to rotary motion to drive a rotary hydraulic pump/motor so as to provide spring action to the reaction mass and ensure its oscillation and proper positioning.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 11/00 - Parts or details not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups
43.
AUTONOMOUSLY OPERATED BUOYS WITH POWER GENERATION AND POWER USAGE CONTROL
Apparatus, intended to be deployed in a body of water, includes a payload comprised of a multiplicity of different electronic and electromechanical loads and a wave energy converter (WEC) system responsive to the amplitude of waves in the body of water for producing electrical power, which is a function of the wave amplitudes, to power the payload. The apparatus includes switching circuitry for controlling the application of power to selected ones of the loads. Control circuitry and devices which are responsive to the electric power being produced control the switching circuitry for controlling the amount of power supplied to, and consumed by, the loads.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
44.
WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER WITH ROTARY HYDRAULIC SPRING
The generally up and down movement of a reaction mass is converted into rotary motion which is used to drive a rotary hydraulic spring comprised of a rotary hydraulic pump motor and an accumulator to produce a "spring" function. The invention is particularly applicable to wave energy converters (WECs) having a reaction mass which needs to be coupled to a spring to ensure Its oscillation and to cause it to be centered about its center of travel. The linear up-down motion of a reaction mass may be converted via a linear-to-rotary translator to rotary motion to drive a rotary hydraulic pump/motor so as to provide spring action to the reaction mass and ensure its oscillation and proper positioning.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
Apparatus for connecting a power cable to a marine vessel which is subject to pitch, heave, roll and yaw motion includes a ball and socket device for decreasing the twisting and bending of the power cable. The socket is attached to the vessel and the ball can rotate freely within the socket but its up down motion is restricted. The power cable's outer protective sheath is attached to the ball while its conductors pass through the ball and are connected to an internal connector. A flexible cable (wire) is connected between the internal connector and electrical equipment internal to the marine vessel.
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a float tending to move in phase with the waves, a spar tending to move out of phase with the float and power take off device (PTO) coupled between the float and spar for converting their relative motion into useful energy. The PTO in-cludes a rack and pinion mechanism which drives a high-torque, multi-pole, permanent magnet generator (PMG) to produce electrical signals of relatively high frequency relative to the frequency of the waves and the basic motion of the rack and pinion mechanism. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the rack and pinion mechanism may be located within the spar which may be hermetically sealed by a sealing mechanis'm which allows a thrust rod coupled between the float and spar to move up and down with little friction to ensure efficient operation. In addition, a braking arrangement is provided for inhibiting relative motion between the float and spar during extreme severe wave conditions. In this way, the pinion gears and generators need only be sized for the operational wave conditions.
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a float tending to move in phase with the waves, a spar tending to move out of phase with the float and power take off device (PTO) coupled between the float and spar for converting their relative motion into useful energy. The PTO includes a rack and pinion mechanism which drives a high-torque, multi-pole, permanent magnet generator (PMG) to produce electrical signals of relatively high frequency relative to the frequency of the waves and the basic motion of the rack and pinion mechanism. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the rack and pinion mechanism may be located within the spar which may be hermetically sealed by a sealing mechanis'm which allows a thrust rod coupled between the float and spar to move up and down with little friction to ensure efficient operation. In addition, a braking arrangement is provided for inhibiting relative motion between the float and spar during extreme severe wave conditions. In this way, the pinion gears and generators need only be sized for the operational wave conditions.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a float tending to move in phase with the waves, a spar tending to move out of phase with the float and power take off device (PTO) coupled between the float and spar for converting their relative motion into useful energy. The PTO includes a rack and pinion mechanism which drives a high-torque, multi-pole, permanent magnet generator (PMG) to produce electrical signals of relatively high frequency relative to the frequency of the waves and the basic motion of the rack and pinion mechanism. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the rack and pinion mechanism may be located within the spar which may be hermetically sealed by a sealing mechanism which allows a thrust rod coupled between the float and spar to move up and down with little friction to ensure efficient operation. In addition, a braking arrangement is provided for inhibiting relative motion between the float and spar during extreme severe wave conditions. In this way, the pinion gears and generators need only be sized for the operational wave conditions.
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a float and a spar for guiding the up and down movement of the float in response to the waves. A power take off (PTO) device coupled between the float and the spar and mounted within one of the float and spar such that the PTO includes apparatus responsive to the mechanical interaction of the float with the portion of the spar in proximity to the float for converting their relative motion into useful energy. In one embodiment the PTO includes a linear rack extending along an external portion of the spar and a linear to rotary converter, mounted within the float, including a double sided toothed belt for engaging the rack and causing rotation of the rotary converter to drive an electric generator. In another embodiment the PTO includes tires mounted within the float which rotate as the float moves up and down. In another embodiment the PTO includes a rack and pinion arrangement with one of them connected to the spar and the other mounted in the float.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a float which moves generally in phase with the waves and whose up and down motion is guided by and along a spar having an upper portion and a lower portion. A power take off (PTO) device is coupled between the float and the spar for converting their relative motion into useful energy. In some embodiments, the PTO includes (a) a drum having an axis of rotation rotatably mounted within one of the float and spar; and (b) cabling means connected between the drum and the other one of the float and spar for causing the drum to rotate as a function of the up and down motion of the float. In other embodiments, the PTO system is formed using a pre-tensioned roller chain wound around sprocket wheels located within one of the spar and float with the opposite ends of the chain connected to the other one of the spar and float to cause rotation of the sprocket wheels in response to movement of the float relative to the spar.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A wave energy converter (WECe) includes a float and a spar for guiding the up and down movement of the float in response to waves. A power take off (PTA) device coupled between the float and the spar and mounted within one of the float and spar such that the PTA includes apparatus responsive to the mechanical Interaction of the float with the portion of the spar in proximity to the float for converting their relative motion into useful energy. In one embodiment the PTA includes a linear rack extending along an external portion of the spar and a linear to rotary converter, mounted within the float, including a double sided toothed belt for engaging the rack and causing rotation of the rotary converter to drive an electric generator. In another embodiment the PTA includes tires mounted within the float which rotate as the float moves up and down.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a float which moves generally in phase with the waves and whose up and down motion is guided by and along a spar having an upper portion and a lower portion. A power take off (PTO) device is coupled between the float and the spar for converting their relative motion into useful energy. In some embodiments, the PTO includes (a) a drum having an axis of rotation rotatably mounted within one of the float and spar; and (b) cabling means connected between the drum and the other one of the float and spar for causing the drum to rotate as a function of the up and down motion of the float. In other embodiments, the PTO system is formed using a pre-tensioned roller chain wound around sprocket wheels located within one of the spar and float with the opposite ends of the chain connected to the other one of the spar and float to cause rotation of the sprocket wheels in response to movement of the float relative to the spar.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes first and second bodies which can move relative to each other in response to waves and a power-take-off (PTO) device coupled between the two bodies to convert their relative motion into energy. A sensor is used to sense selected characteristics of an incoming wave and produce signals which are applied to a control computer for predicting the impact of the incoming waves on the WEC. Simultaneously, signals indicative of the actual conditions (e.g. the velocity) of the WEC are also supplied to the control computer which is programmed to process the predicted and actual information in order to generate appropriate signals (forces) to the components of the WEC such that the average wave power captured by the PTO is maximized.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A float structure for a WEC is designed to have a tapered underside to reduce the impact due to wave slam and bending moments while providing little reduction in the surface area responding to the wave surface in order to maintain the beneficial power generating capability of a “flat” float. The underside of the float presents an inverted wedge section to decrease loads associated with wave slamming. The float may have a generally toroidal or elliptical configuration at and about the “still” water line with the generally submerged underside of the float having a cross section shaped to have one or more inverted triangular sections extending between the outer perimeter of the float and its center to reduce impact loading due to wave slamming while maintaining power producing capability.
F03B 17/02 - Other machines or engines using hydrostatic thrust
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A float structure for a WEC is designed to have a tapered underside to reduce the impact due to wave slam and bending moments while providing little reduction in the surface area responding to the wave surface in order to maintain the beneficial power generating capability of a "flat" float. The underside of the float presents an inverted wedge section to decrease loads associated with wave slamming. The float may have a generally toroidal or elliptical configuration at and about the "still" water line with the generally submerged underside of the float having a cross section shaped to have one or more inverted triangular sections extending between the outer perimeter of the float and its center to reduce impact loading due to wave slamming while maintaining power producing capability.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
56.
WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER WITH INTERNAL MASS ON SPRING OSCILLATOR
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes a shell containing an internal oscillator comprised of a reaction mass suspended from the shell by an elastic spring in parallel with a constant force spring. The constant force spring provides a relatively constant force (Fc) to counterbalance the static weight of the reaction mass and reduce the extension 'static' length of the elastic spring while the elastic spring exerts a force (Fes) on the reaction mass that is proportional to the displacement, x, of the elastic spring. A power take-off (PTO) device, located within the shell, coupled between the shell and the internal oscillator converts their relative motion into electrical energy.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes first and second bodies which can move relative to each other in response to waves and a power-take-off (PTO) device coupled between the two bodies to convert their relative motion into energy. A sensor is used to sense selected characteristics of an incoming wave and produce signals which are applied to a control computer for predicting the impact of the incoming waves on the WEC. Simultaneously, signals indicative of the actual conditions (e.g. the velocity) of the WEC are also supplied to the control computer which is programmed to process the predicted and actual information in order to generate appropriate signals (forces) to the components of the WEC such that the average wave power captured by the PTO is maximized.
For reducing the number of anchors required for mooring a plurality of WECs in a body of water, the WECs are arrayed in two patterns enabling the sharing of anchors among the WECs. One pattern comprises pluralities of WECs disposed in polygonal shaped cells with an anchor disposed beneath each cell connected to all the WECs in the cell. A second pattern comprises a tessellated pattern of contiguous cells with WECs at the interface between contiguous pairs of cells being common to both cells of the pairs.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
59.
WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER WITH AIR COMPRESSION (WECWAC)
A wave energy converter with air compression (WECWAC) includes a cylinder and a piston located within the cylinder dividing the cylinder into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. The cylinder is fixedly attached to a spar whose up/down (heave) motion is restrained. The piston is fixedly attached to, and driven by, a float which moves generally in phase with the waves. Under typical wave conditions the piston functions to compress air within the upper chamber on its up stroke and within the lower chamber on its down stroke, i. e., the system is thus double-acting. In still water, the spar and cylinder combination is designed to drift down into the body of water relative to the piston whereby the size/volume of the upper chamber is decreased (while that of the lower chamber is increased). For small amplitude waves the piston continues to compress air in the upper chamber and this asymmetrical compression continues until the waves reach a predetermine level when 'double-action' is resumed. Controlling the position of the cylinder relative to the piston enables the WECWAC to automatically regulate its compression 'stroke' to suit varying wave conditions. The pressurized air from a WECWAC may be stored and/or processed to drive a turbo-generator or it may be combined with the outputs of other WECWACs to drive a single large and highly efficient turbo-generator.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
A damping (or heave) plate comprises a generally flat plate attached, beneath the surface of a sea, and in horizontal orientation, to a structural member subject to being vertically moved in response to passing surface waves. The plate tends to resist vertical movements and has the effect of adding mass to the structure. A vertically extending structure is added to both major surfaces of the heave plate for increasing the volume of water moved by the plate. For minimizing drag forces generally created by use of the damping plate, the vertically extending structure is shaped to include curved hydrodynamic surfaces for minimizing turbulence in the surrounding water.
Apparatus embodying the invention include a damping plate attached to the submerged end of a spar-like element floating in a body of water. The spar like element tends to move up and down in a vertical direction in response to passing waves. The damping plate has a pair of oppositely facing surfaces extending transversely to the vertical direction of the movement of the spar-like element and vertical structures (“lips”) mounted on the oppositely facing surfaces for increasing the effective mass of water pushed during movement of the damping plate through the water. Damping plates with lips, as per the invention, may be used in wave energy converters to control the relative motion between the spar-like element and a float to increase the energy produced.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
The stability and power conversion efficiency of a wave energy converter (WEC) which includes a float, a spar and a power taken device (PTO) connected between the spar and the float is increased by connecting a heave plate to the spar in a very secure manner and by carefully limiting the movement between the float and spar to one direction (i.e., up-down motion). Buoyancy chambers may be attached to the WEC to facilitate its transportation and deployment. The WEC may be formed in sections and assembled at, or close to, the point of deployment.
The stability and power conversion efficiency of a wave energy converter (WEC) which includes a float, a spar and a power taken device (PTO) connected between the spar and the float is increased by connecting a heave plate to the spar in a very secure manner and by carefully limiting the movement between the float and spar to one direction (i.e., up-down motion). Buoyancy chambers may be attached to the WEC to facilitate its transportation and deployment. The WEC may be formed in sections and assembled at, or close to, the point of deployment.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
Apparatus embodying the invention include a damping plate attached to1 the submerged end of a spar-like element floating in a body of water. The spar like element tends to move up and down in a vertical direction in response to passing waves. The damping plate has a pair of oppositely facing surfaces extending transversely to the vertical direction of the movement of the spar-like element and vertical structures ('lips') mounted on the oppositely facing surfaces for increasing the effective mass of water pushed during movement of the damping plate through the water. Damping plates with lips, as per the invention, may be used in wave energy converters to control the relative motion between the spar- like element and a float to increase the energy produced. Damping plates with lips, as per the invention, may be used to effectively dampen the motion of an offshore platform to which the spar-like element is fixedly attached.
B63B 39/00 - Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movementsApparatus for indicating vessel attitude
F04B 35/02 - Piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids and characterised by the driving means to their working members, or by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors, not otherwise provided for the means being fluid
65.
DAMPING (HEAVE) PLATES HAVING IMPROVED CHARACTERISTICS
A damping (or heave) plate comprises a generally flat plate attached, beneath the surface of a sea, and in horizontal orientation, to a structural member subject to being vertically moved in response to passing surface waves. The plate tends to resist vertical movements and has the effect of adding mass to the structure. A vertically extending structure is added to both major surfaces of the heave plate for increasing the volume of water moved by the plate. For minimizing drag forces generally created by use of the damping plate, the vertically extending structure is shaped to include curved hydrodynamic surfaces for minimizing turbulence in the surrounding water.
B63B 39/00 - Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movementsApparatus for indicating vessel attitude
F04B 35/02 - Piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids and characterised by the driving means to their working members, or by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors, not otherwise provided for the means being fluid
Apparatus embodying the invention include a damping plate attached to1 the submerged end of a spar-like element floating in a body of water. The spar like element tends to move up and down in a vertical direction in response to passing waves. The damping plate has a pair of oppositely facing surfaces extending transversely to the vertical direction of the movement of the spar-like element and vertical structures ("lips") mounted on the oppositely facing surfaces for increasing the effective mass of water pushed during movement of the damping plate through the water. Damping plates with lips, as per the invention, may be used in wave energy converters to control the relative motion between the spar- like element and a float to increase the energy produced. Damping plates with lips, as per the invention, may be used to effectively dampen the motion of an offshore platform to which the spar-like element is fixedly attached.
B63B 39/00 - Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movementsApparatus for indicating vessel attitude
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
67.
DAMPING (HEAVE) PLATES HAVING IMPROVED CHARACTERISTICS
A damping (or heave) plate comprises a generally flat plate attached, beneath the surface of a sea, and in horizontal orientation, to a structural member subject to being vertically moved in response to passing surface waves. The plate tends to resist vertical movements and has the effect of adding mass to the structure. A vertically extending structure is added to both major surfaces of the heave plate for increasing the volume of water moved by the plate. For minimizing drag forces generally created by use of the damping plate, the vertically extending structure is shaped to include curved hydrodynamic surfaces for minimizing turbulence in the surrounding water.
B63B 39/00 - Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movementsApparatus for indicating vessel attitude
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
68.
Active impedance matching systems and methods for wave energy converter
The invention relates to active impedance matching systems (AIMS) and methods for increasing the efficiency of a wave energy converter (WEC) having a shaft and a shell intended to be placed in a body of water and to move relative to each other in response to forces applied to the WEC by the body of water. The system includes apparatus for: (a) extracting energy from the WEC and producing output electric energy as a function of the movement of the shell (shaft) relative to the shaft (shell): and (b) for selectively imparting energy to one of the shell and shaft for causing an increase in the displacement and velocity (or acceleration) of one of the shell and shaft relative to the other, whereby the net amount of output electrical energy produced is increased. The apparatus for extracting energy and for selectively supplying energy may be implemented using a single device capable of being operated bi-directionally, in terms of both direction and force, or may be implemented by different devices.
The stability and power conversion efficiency of a wave energy converter (WEC) which includes a float, a spar and a power taken device (PTO) connected between the spar and the float is increased by connecting a heave plate to the spar in a very secure manner and by carefully limiting the movement between the float and spar to one direction (i.e., up-down motion). Buoyancy chambers may be attached to the WEC to facilitate its transportation and deployment. The WEC may be formed in sections and assembled at, or close to, the point of deployment.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
A cellular communication system includes an array of buoys disposed in a body of water. Each buoy includes a completer cellular system including a cellular transmission/reception site and associated electrical equipment for processing cellular signals. Each buoy also includes a wave energy converter (WEC) responsive to waves in the body of water for generating electrical energy for powering the associated equipment processing the cellular signals, whereby the cellular system can be continuously operated without any additional power source.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
H01Q 1/24 - SupportsMounting means by structural association with other equipment or articles with receiving set
H01Q 1/34 - Adaptation for use in or on ships, submarines, buoys or torpedoes
H04W 16/26 - Cell enhancers, e.g. for tunnels or building shadow
A cellular communication system includes an array of buoys disposed in a body of water. Each buoy includes a completer cellular system including a cellular transmission/reception site and associated electrical equipment for processing cellular signals. Each buoy also includes a wave energy converter (WEC) responsive to waves in the body of water for generating electrical energy for powering the associated equipment processing the cellular signals, whereby the cellular system can be continuously operated without any additional power source.
A cellular communication system includes an array of buoys disposed in a body of water. Each buoy includes a completer cellular system including a cellular transmission/reception site and associated electrical equipment for processing cellular signals. Each buoy also includes a wave energy converter (WEC) responsive to waves in the body of water for generating electrical energy for powering the associated equipment processing the cellular signals, whereby the cellular system can be continuously operated without any additional power source.
For reducing the number of components required for mooring (by- means of three, 120° spaced apart mooring lines) multiple floating wave energy converters (WECs), a group of six WECs is disposed in a hexagonal pattern with each WEC being disposed at a corner of the hexagon. The WECs are connected to one another by mooring lines extending along sides of the hexagon, each WEC thereby being connected by two, 120° spaced apart mooring lines and with each WEC serving as a mooring point for each of its two adjacent neighbors. A third mooring line for each WEC, spaced 120° from the other two mooring lines, is connected to an auxiliary surface buoy and thence to an anchor.
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a shell suitable for being placed within a body of water. The shell contains an internal oscillator comprising a “reaction mass” and a spring mechanism coupled between the reaction mass and the shell. The shell and internal oscillator are constructed such that, when placed in a body of water and in response to waves in the body of water, there is relative motion between the shell and the internal oscillator's mass. A power take-off (PTO) device is coupled between the internal oscillator and the shell to convert their relative motion into electric energy. In systems embodying the invention, the spring mechanism is designed such that its displacement or movement is less than the displacement or movement of the reaction mass. The spring mechanism may be any device which enables the reaction mass to undergo a given replacement while its displacement or movement is less than that of the reaction mass. This property enables the size of the WEC to be more readily controlled (e.g., made smaller).
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
75.
WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER UTILIZING INTERNAL REACTION MASS AND SPRING
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a shell (10) suitable for being placed within a body of water. The shell (10) contains an internal oscillator comprising a 'reaction mass' (20) and a spring mechanism (30) coupled between the reaction mass (20) and the shell (10). The shell (10) and internal oscillator are constructed such that, when placed in a body of water and in response to waves in the body of water, there is relative motion betweenl the shell (10) and the internal oscillator's mass (20). A power take-off (PTO) device (40) is coupled-between the internal oscillator and the shell (10) to convert their relative motion into electric energy. In systems embodying the invention, the spring mechanism (30) is designed such that its displacement or movement is less than the displacement or movement of the reaction mass (20). The spring mechanism (30) may be any device which enables the reaction mass to undergo a given replacement while its displacement or movement is less than that of the reaction mass (20). This property enables the size of the WEC to be more readily controlled (e.g., made smaller).
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
76.
WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER UTILIZING INTERNAL REACTION MASS AND SPRING
A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a shell (10) suitable for being placed within a body of water. The shell (10) contains an internal oscillator comprising a "reaction mass" (20) and a spring mechanism (30) coupled between the reaction mass (20) and the shell (10). The shell (10) and internal oscillator are constructed such that, when placed in a body of water and in response to waves in the body of water, there is relative motion between1 the shell (10) and the internal oscillator's mass (20). A power take-off (PTO) device (40) is coupled-between the internal oscillator and the shell (10) to convert their relative motion into electric energy. In systems embodying the invention, the spring mechanism (30) is designed such that its displacement or movement is less than the displacement or movement of the reaction mass (20). The spring mechanism (30) may be any device which enables the reaction mass to undergo a given replacement while its displacement or movement is less than that of the reaction mass (20). This property enables the size of the WEC to be more readily controlled (e.g., made smaller).
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
A wave energy converter (WEC) for converting energy contained in surface waves on a body of water to useful energy comprises two floats movable relative to one another in response to passing surface waves. Both floats comprise expandable outer envelopes which have been expanded into full and firm shape. In one process, expansion is obtained by filling the floats with fluids, for example, air and water. The fluids can be pumped into the floats, or the floats can be mechanically expanded in the presence of the fluids for self filling owing to pressure differentials. In one embodiment, a float envelope can comprise of plurality of end to end connected length sections in nested or telescoped relationship. Expansion is obtained by pulling the telescoped sections out from one and other, for example, by pumping fluids into the telescoped sections.
An ocean wave energy converter (WEC) utilizes the relative motion between permanent magnet and induction coil assemblies to generate electricity. The permanent magnet assemblies and induction coil assemblies are separately housed in watertight enclosures, enabling a wide range of wave energy converter configurations, nearly unlimited stroke and obviating the need for a common magnet/coil enclosure with seals. The magnet assemblies are constructed with surface or buried magnets. The wave motion moves a magnet assembly relative to a stationary coil assembly, or vice versa. Either the magnet assembly or the induction coil assembly are made long enough to provide the generation of electricity over a desired operational range of travel. Various means are provided to maintain the spacing (“gap”) between the magnetic and coil assemblies relatively constant.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
H02P 9/04 - Control effected upon non-electric prime mover and dependent upon electric output value of the generator
The invention relates to active impedance matching systems (AIMS) and methods for increasing the efficiency of a wave energy converter (WEC) having a shaft and a shell intended to be placed in a body of water and to move relative to each other in response to forces applied to the WEC by the body of water. The system includes apparatus for: (a) extracting energy from the WEC and producing output electric energy as a function of the movement of the shell (shaft) relative to the shaft (shell): and (b) for selectively imparting energy to one of the shell and shaft for causing an increase in the displacement and velocity (or acceleration) of one of the shell and shaft relative to the other, whereby the net amount of output electrical energy produced is increased. The apparatus for extracting energy and for selectively supplying energy may be implemented using a single device capable of being operated bi-directionally, in terms of both direction and force, or may be implemented by different devices.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special useCombinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatusPower stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
