Tide And Wave Motors Patents (Class 290/42)
-
Patent number: 8810056Abstract: An apparatus for converting the kinetic energy of ocean waves into electricity is disclosed. The apparatus includes a main body member. A generator is located within the main body member. The generator includes a axle having a positive direction and a negative direction. An inner rotor is driven by the axle, wherein the inner rotor is driven only in the negative direction of the axle. An outer rotor surrounds the inner rotor and is also being driven by the axle, wherein the outer rotor is driven only in the positive direction of the driveshaft. A stationary ring is located between the inner rotor and the outer rotor. A drive rod, having a buoy attached to one end, is configured to freely move between an upstroke position and a downstroke position. The drive rod drives the generator as it reciprocates between the upstroke position and the downstroke position.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2012Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Inventor: P. Foerd Ames
-
Patent number: 8810054Abstract: The invention relates to a wave-power unit for the production of electric power. It comprises a floating body (1) arranged for floating on the sea and an electric linear generator (2) having a stator (5) and a translator (8) reciprocating along a center axis. The stator (5) is arranged to be anchored in the bed of the sea and the translator (8) is connected to the floating body (1) by connection means (3, 7). According to the invention the generator (2) is enclosed in a water-tight encapsulation (4) having an upper end wall with an opening through which the connection means (7) extends. The opening has a seal (12) that seals against the connection means (7). The seal (12) is flexibly mounted. The invention also relates to the use of the wave-power unit and to a method for producing electric power.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2008Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Assignee: Seabased ABInventors: Erland Strömstedt, Stefan Gustafsson
-
Patent number: 8803346Abstract: A system for maintaining buoyant, energy-capture devices in general relative position in water in the presence of surface waves allows heeling of the energy capture devices while preventing collision. The system includes a grid of structural members that resists compression while permitting limited relative surface displacement between the first and second energy-capture devices. The structural members may be partially compressible and provide a restoring force, and they may allow heeling. Electricity from wave energy capture devices is combined in a way that smoothes variations inherent in wave action. Electricity from wind energy capture devices is combined with energy from wave energy capture devices for transmission to shore.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2010Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Natural Power Concepts, Inc.Inventors: John Pitre, Stuart Huang
-
Publication number: 20140210207Abstract: This invention relates to a generator arrangement, including: a generator located within a flow passage wherein the flow passage has an inlet and an outlet, and the generator includes at least one contra-rotating blade arrangement which is configured to be rotated about a principle axis of the generator by a flow of liquid in the flow passage, and wherein the at least one blade has an adjustable pitch; an array of sensors located downstream of the blade arrangement for detecting the outlet flow conditions; a controller for determining the outlet flow conditions on the basis of conditions sensed by the sensor array; and, a pitch control system for adjusting the pitch of the at least one blade so as to affect the flow conditions at the outlet of the flow passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 2, 2012Publication date: July 31, 2014Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE PLCInventor: Adam P. Chir
-
Patent number: 8784653Abstract: A filter-anchor for placement on a sea floor is provided. It includes a filter housing for filtering sea water prior to entry into a water desalinization system. The filter housing has an exterior, an interior chamber, at least one inlet for providing the sea water to the interior chamber, and at least one outlet for enabling filtered water to be pumped from the interior chamber. A sand filter is disposed in the filter housing. The filter housing has at least one water conduction outlet conduit for filtered water to be pumped to the desalinization system. A wave energy conversion system utilizing the filter anchor is also provided to effect the pumping of the filtered water to the desalinization system. A method of anchoring a wave energy conversion system and providing filtered water to a desalinization system is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2013Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Murtech, Inc.Inventors: Robert Murtha, Michael E. McCormick, Mark Washington
-
Publication number: 20140197637Abstract: A wave power generation device which eliminates addition of an adjustment mechanism relating to a change in a mass or a shape to a float and an external sensor such as a wave meter and can improve power generation efficiency by synchronizing a vertical movement of the float with all the wave periods while a manufacturing cost of the wave power generation device is suppressed and a method of controlling the same are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2014Publication date: July 17, 2014Applicant: MITSUI ENGINEERING & SHIPBUILDING CO., LTD.Inventors: Kunio Nakano, Hiroyuki Nakagawa, Shogo Miyajima, Takashi Kawaguchi
-
Patent number: 8778176Abstract: A potable water producing system for disposition at a body of salt water and a method of producing potable water is provided. The system includes a wave energy conversion system (AWECS) and a portable filtration-anchor system. The AWECS is in the form of a floating articulated barge housing a desalination system including a reverse osmosis membrane. The filtration-anchor system is submerged in the body of salt water and includes a sand filter to filter the adjacent salt water and to provide the filtered salt water to the desalination system on the articulated barge. The action of the waves on the articulated barge provides energy to pump the filtered salt water from the sand filter to the reverse osmosis member to produce potable water. Moreover, the action of the waves on the articulated barge effects the shaking of the reverse osmosis filter, thereby rendering it self-cleaning.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Murtech, Inc.Inventors: Robert Murtha, Michael E. McCormick, Mark K. Washington
-
Patent number: 8763389Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Ocean Power Technologies, Inc.Inventor: David B. Stewart
-
Patent number: 8759996Abstract: Apparatus and method is disclosed for generating usable power derived from oscillatory hydro-kinetic energy available in the movement of waves having a given height and being spaced apart by a predetermined distance at the surface of a body of water. Apparatus and method is disclosed for generating usable power derived from hydro-kinetic energy available in a body of water moving in at least one direction of movement, the at least one direction being substantially horizontal or substantially vertical. Apparatus and method is disclosed for generating usable power derived from hydro-gravitational forces available at a site having a source of water at a first elevation higher than a second elevation at a selected location where the usable power is to be derived.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2013Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Inventor: SaeHeum Song
-
Patent number: 8754540Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a hydroelectric turbine which includes a stator and a shaftless rotor housed for rotation within the stator, the stator defining an opening or channel in which the rotor is retained and which channel is dimension to permit the rotor to undergo both axial rotation and displacement along the circumference of the opening, whereby during operation the rotor assumes substantially hypocycloidal motion relative to the stator.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2009Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Inventors: James Ives, Paul Dunne
-
Patent number: 8742607Abstract: A system for generation of power using an apparatus in deep water is disclosed. The system includes a ballast buoy configured to achieve a desired depth in the deep water, a substantially vertical hollow tube attached to the ballast buoy that is submerged under water when the ballast buoy achieves the desired depth in the deep water, and a converter for converting the physical environment created in the substantially vertical hollow tube by placement of the ballast buoy at the desired depth in the deep water.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2013Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Inventors: Ryan Steelberg, Chad Steelberg
-
Patent number: 8733093Abstract: In this invention, high-efficiency wind power generators are mounted on floats that are attached to bridge and other structures for generating electricity from hydrokinetic energy in water waves, currents and tides without submerging the wind power generators in the water. The use of bridge and other dual-use structures substantially reduces the capital cost necessary for installing this system to generate electricity in small as well as large amounts. Today, the systems for converting wind energy to electricity are far more advanced and efficient than existing systems for converting hydrokinetic energy. This invention could produce energy for water-transport vessels as well as for electric utilities.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2013Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Inventor: Paul M Swamidass
-
Patent number: 8733092Abstract: A wave power converting device includes a platform, a plurality of first and second fluid guide assemblies and floating assembly. The platform has a retaining post anchored to an underwater ground. The first and second fluid guide assemblies are disposed underwater so that the water could flow into the first and second fluid guide assemblies. The floating assembly could be moved up and down relative to the platform so as to press the water upwardly through the first and second fluid guide assemblies to a reservoir. Under this arrangement, the energy potential of the water in the reservoir can be converted into electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2013Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Inventor: Yun-Chang Yu
-
Patent number: 8723355Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Ocean Power TechnologiesInventors: James E. Eder, Joseph A. Sarokhan
-
Patent number: 8723353Abstract: Wave energy converters incorporating the components of an induction generator that are integrated with the components of a pneumatic spring are provided. The wave energy converters have a buoy having an interior guide, motion of the buoy representing a first degree of freedom and a spar mounted within the interior guide so as to be movable therein, motion of the spar representing a second degree of freedom. There is a pneumatic spring between the spar and the buoy to provide restoring forces when the spar departs from a quiescent position relative to the buoy. There is damping element in the form of an induction generator having an armature and a stator, with one of the stator and armature fixed to the spar and the other of the stator and armature fixed to the buoy to generate power when the spar moves relative to the buoy in the presence of excitation by ocean gravity waves.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Inventor: Barrie Franklin
-
Patent number: 8715496Abstract: A system for altering water properties in an outdoor body of water includes a holding vessel configured to hold water. The holding vessel has at least one wall extending above a mean surface water level. The system also includes at least one conduit extending downward from the holding vessel. The at least one conduit has a length extending to a depth at which at least one property of water at the depth differs substantially from that of water at the surface. The system further includes at least one aperture formed in at least one of the holding vessel or the at least one conduit and located at a distance below the mean surface water level. Further still, the system includes at least one one way valve coupled to the at least one aperture and allowing flow of water in only one direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2008Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William H. Gates, III, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Willard H. Wattenburg, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
-
Patent number: 8702982Abstract: A system is described generally for providing a structure or structures for altering water surface temperature. The system includes a holding vessel configured to hold water. The holding vessel has at least one wall coupled to a lowermost portion. The at least one wall extends above the water level and the lowermost portion is configured to be submerged. At least one conduit extends from the lower side of the holding vessel. The at least one conduit has a length extending to a depth at which a property of water at the depth is substantially different from that of the water at the surface.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2008Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William Gates, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Willard H. Wattenburg, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
-
Patent number: 8701403Abstract: A system and method for generating energy from the tuning masses relative to a ground plane and an external force. In some embodiments the external force is the action of the waves. The system has a first mass movable relative to the ground plane, wherein the external force induces an oscillation in the first mass relative to the ground plane. A second movable mass is carried by and movable relative to the first movable mass. The second movable mass creates kinetic energy as the result of varying the position of the second movable mass relative to the first mass. The system adjusts or tunes the frequency of various components in relation to the natural frequency of the waves. The second mass can move relative to the first mass by various methods including rolling on a track or pendulum. The energy created by the relative motion can be converted to various forms of energy including electrical energy.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2008Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Gwave LLCInventor: Glenn L. Beane
-
Patent number: 8698332Abstract: A system for generation of power using an apparatus in deep water is disclosed. The system includes a ballast buoy configured to achieve a desired depth in the deep water, a substantially vertical hollow tube attached to the ballast buoy that is submerged under water when the ballast buoy achieves the desired depth in the deep water, and a converter for converting the physical environment created in the substantially vertical hollow tube by placement of the ballast buoy at the desired depth in the deep water.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2013Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Newport Coast InvestmentsInventors: Ryan Steelberg, Chad Steelberg
-
Patent number: 8698331Abstract: A bidirectional axial flow turbine with self-pivoting blades is provided for use in a central opening of submerged horizontally-aligned structure forming a wave energy conversion device. Entry and exit inner guide vanes are positioned on opposite sides of the vertically-aligned central opening, for directing the bidirectional fluid flow into and out of the central opening and inducing a vortex swirl in both directions of fluid flow that has the same direction of rotation. Within the opening, a turbine hub is mounted with a plurality of uniformly spaced self-pivoting blades that have a symmetrical blade profile to the bidirectional flow. The self-pivoting blades automatically change their blade angle in response to the force of water flow on the blades, so that they turn the turbine shaft in the same rotational direction in both flow directions.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Inventor: Richard W. Carter
-
Patent number: 8698328Abstract: Embodiments of an apparatus for harvesting electrical power from fluid motion are described. The apparatus includes a magnetostrictive component having an internal pre-stressed magnetostrictive core. A magnetic property of the magnetostrictive core is configured to change with changes in stress within the magnetostrictive core along at least one direction within the magnetostrictive component. Also, forces at least partially due to fluid motion results in changes of stress within the magnetostrictive core and consequently change the magnetic property. The magnetostrictive component is further configured such that the change in the magnetic property will result in a change in the magnetic flux, which can be used to generate electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Oscilla Power Inc.Inventors: Balakrishnan Nair, Jesse Alan Nachlas, Andrew Joseph Gill, Zachary Murphree
-
Patent number: 8698337Abstract: A matrix sea wave power generating device includes a plurality of power generating units positioned to form a matrix, wherein each of the power generating units includes a floating member, a transmission shaft provided on the floating member, a ratchet having a plurality of ratchet teeth, a pull disk, a speed increasing device, a power generator, and a driving device, wherein the transmission shaft is rotatably mounted on the floating member through a shaft bearing, and is operatively connected to the power generator through the speed increasing device, the ratchet teeth is extended in a clockwise direction, wherein the ratchet is provided on the transmission shaft, wherein the pull disk has plurality of engaging teeth engaged with the ratchet teeth of the ratchet, wherein the pull disk has a plurality of pulling strings, wherein a winding direction of the pulling strings is opposite to that of the corresponding ratchet teeth.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Guiyang Qianxing Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Huian Wen
-
Publication number: 20140097617Abstract: An ocean wave energy converter (WEC) uses one or more buoyant elongated float(s) mechanically linked to a motion-stabilized, controlled-submergence depth frame by either swing or lever arms or down-sloping tracks defining and orienting the motion of the floats relative to the frame to capture both heave and surge wave energy forces. The submerged depth of the frame and attached float(s) is adjusted for optimal wave energy capture or submerged sufficiently to fully submerge the float(s) during severe sea conditions. The elongated float's compliant wave-impacting forward wall combined with total submergence during severe sea states allows the elongated float(s) to self-orient parallel to oncoming wave fronts to intercept and capture maximum wave energy per unit of WEC volume, weight and cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 9, 2013Publication date: April 10, 2014Inventor: John W. Rohrer
-
Patent number: 8686582Abstract: A wave energy converter (10) for extracting useful energy from wave motion. The converter (10) comprises an active float (12) that is arranged to float on the water, and being arranged to heave and surge in response to wave motion acting on the active float, and an elongate reactive body (14) that is arranged to be suspended in a substantially submerged state into the water and having sufficient surface area and length such that it pitches in response to wave motion-acting on the reactive body. The active float (12) and reactive body (14) are pivotably coupled for pivotable movement relative to each other about a single pivot axis (16) in response to heaving and surging of the active float and pitching of the reactive body. The converter also comprises a power output system that is driven by the pivotable movement about the pivot axis to capture the useful energy.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignees: Industrial Research Limited, Power Projects LimitedInventors: Alister Gardiner, Lan Le-Ngoc, Alan Caughley
-
Patent number: 8685254Abstract: A method is generally described which includes environmental alteration. The method includes determining a placement of at least one vessel capable of moving water to lower depths in the water via wave induced downwelling. The method also includes placing the at least one vessel in the determined placement. Further, the method includes generating movement of the water adjacent the surface of the water in response to the placing.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2008Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William H. Gates, III, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Willard H. Wattenburg, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
-
Publication number: 20140084586Abstract: The invention is a method of converting wave energy into electrical energy using a device comprising a moving device cooperating with an electric motor which oscillates with respect to the motor under the action of the waves.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2012Publication date: March 27, 2014Inventors: Nicolas Henwood, Jérémy Malaize, Jonathan Chauvin
-
Patent number: 8679331Abstract: A structure described generally for altering one or more properties within a body of water includes a vessel configured to hold water. The vessel may have at least one wall. The at least one wall extends at least above a mean surface water level. At least one conduit extends downward from the holding vessel. The at least one conduit has a length that extends below the surface of the water. A propulsion system may be coupled to at least one of the vessel or the conduit and may be configured to provide forces to the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2008Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Inventors: Jeffrey A. Bowers, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Alistair K. Chan, William H. Gates, III, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, Lowell L. Wood, Jr.
-
Patent number: 8677743Abstract: Invention for extraction and accumulation of energy from displacement of an agitated fluid includes buoyant body, camshaft, flywheel, and platforms. Buoyant body floats upon agitated fluid surface and is constrained to vertical translation. Buoyant body translation is converted to flywheel rotation via bearings which engage helical cam tracks of a camshaft. Camshaft is torsionally engaged with flywheel. Buoyant body and camshaft are fitted with unidirectional rotary clutches. Upon action of rising wave, buoyant force is exerted upon buoyant body, displacing body vertically and causing bearings to apply torsion to camshaft, driving camshaft and flywheel into rotation. Upon wave recession, buoyant body descends under self weight via freewheeling action of unidirectional clutches. Flywheel may be filled with or emptied of fluid to adjust its rotary inertia during operation. Buoyant body has a tapered shape and may be filled with or emptied of fluid to adjust its interface with agitated fluid.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2011Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Inventor: Steven Pedersen
-
Patent number: 8671675Abstract: In a wave powered electric generator system, multiple floatation devices are interconnected by torque arms arranged to convert pivotal movement of the torque arms due to up and down movement of the floatation devices, into one-way rotational movement of electric generator shafts, the torque arms being configured to permit expansion and contraction of their lengths when exposed to sudden, severe axial forces.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2010Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Inventor: Nguyen Huu Cuong
-
Patent number: 8667791Abstract: The present invention relates to a damper for damping the reactionary motion of a wave energy conversion device to wave motion, comprising a damping energy absorber (7) having a reversible non-linear stress-strain response, arranged to damp the reactionary motion of the WEC. According to a first aspect, there is provided a damping structure (2) for a wave energy conversion device (1). The structure comprises a fixed member (6), and a damping member (7) having a reversible non-linear stress-strain response. The present invention also relates to a mooring component (2) for a mooring system (1) and to a method for manufacturing a mooring component (2). The component comprises a deformable element (6) having a reversible non-linear stress-strain response, wherein the response is a composite reversible non-linear stress-strain response.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2009Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Technology From Ideas, LimitedInventors: Paul McEvoy, Robert Healy
-
Patent number: 8669668Abstract: An apparatus for the conversion of the energy of sea or ocean swells. The apparatus comprises: a frame including a vertical post and horizontal beam; a first generator slidably connected to the vertical post; a second generator slidably connected to the horizontal beam; a first pinion connected to the first generator; a second pinion connected to the second generator; a float; a connection mechanism for connecting the float to the generators; a horizontal first rack connected to the float for engaging the first pinion; a vertical second rack connected to the one float for engaging the second pinion, wherein all components connected to the float are disposed at or above sea level.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2012Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Inventor: Yossef Levy
-
Patent number: 8657528Abstract: Brine disposal systems are configured to receive brine from a brine source and to passively collect seawater from a nearby ocean during high tide using one or more tidal forces. Tidal movements during high tide, low tide, or both may be used to mix and thereby dilute the brine with the seawater. The mixture of seawater and brine is then passively discharged into the ocean during low tide using the tidal force, thereby minimizing the impacts on the marine ecosystem.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2010Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLCInventors: Sung-Wei Chen, Colin Chan
-
Patent number: 8653678Abstract: An engine apparatus and method for operating same is disclosed. The engine generates electrical energy from phase changes of two different mixtures within chambers of the engine. Thermoelectric generators are preferably utilized to generate electrical energy from thermo differentials within the engine created by phase changes during engine operation. The engine may additionally be operated to perform mechanical based work.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Marc Henness
-
Patent number: 8650870Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to wave actuated devices for converting wave energy from waves passing through water into mechanical work, the wave actuated devices including primary buoys floating in the water and configured to rise and fall with the waves as they pass through the water between lower position and upper positions, carriages coupled to the primary buoy by a linkage and moving between first and second positions, carriage magnetically interactive materials mounted to the carriages, a support structure extending from a support surface and including a pivot spaced from the support surface, and an arm pivotally supported on the pivot and extending from the pivot to a first end proximate the carriage magnetically interactive material. Some examples of wave actuated devices implement buoy force to return the system to a state of potential energy as a wave triggers the device.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Aaron Overman
-
Publication number: 20140042744Abstract: Buoyancy force can provide a large lifting force with little energy, but it requires a control system. In the present invention position control system is designed and implemented to keep the body with the load at a reference position or to control speed of ascent of the load, in the present invention the designed combination of buoyancy with ascent tuning control parameters operated repeatedly whereby to generate AC electrical power with aid of buoyancy in pool, lake and ocean continuously, the present invention is a buoyancy and gravity control mechanism which comprised of rigid unit to a fix size or collapsible accordion vinyl skirt bellow capsule chamber, therefore several methods that can be developed to take advantage to overcome the enormous torque at the gearbox to turn the generator to generate AC current for rural villages large business and supply the grid 24/7 continuously.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2012Publication date: February 13, 2014Inventor: ARVIND A. DAYA
-
Patent number: 8648485Abstract: A improved energy collection device is disclosed comprising a base a first shaft, rotatable about an axis, a second shaft fixedly mounted to the base, rotatably adapted around the first shaft defining spring housing. A spring is contained within the spring housing of the second shaft attached at a first end to the first shaft and at a second end to the second shaft. A winder is attached to the base, connected to the energy source which rotates the winder and is connected at a second point to the second shaft which is rotated by the winder tightening the second end of the spring to a designed point then unwinding the first end of the spring rotating the first shaft while continuing to wind the second spring end A generator is connected to the end of the first shaft generating electricity as the first shaft is rotated.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2011Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Inventor: Thomas Ralph Grossi
-
Publication number: 20140035283Abstract: The present invention relates to a tidal current power generator. In the tidal current power generator, tidal current flows in a concentrated manner into a power generation module for generating electrical energy using the flow of tidal current, in order to increase the speed of the tidal current. Thus, the amount of electrical energy generated by the power generation module may be improved to achieve highly efficient performance. Also, the range of locations in which the power generation module may he installed is significantly expanded in order to increase the electrical generation using tidal current. Since the power generation module is integrally assembled and then refloated in order to install same on the bottom of the sea, the power generation module may be easily installed as well as easily repaired and maintained.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2011Publication date: February 6, 2014Applicant: Renetec Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jong-Seon Park
-
Patent number: 8633608Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for extracting energy from fluid motion. A deformable body adapted to be deformed by fluid motion is arranged to drive at least one energy medium to be delivered to an energy output. The energy medium is controllable in order to control at least one dynamic response of the deformable body.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2009Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: AWS Ocean Energy LimitedInventors: Simon Grey, Andrew Borthwick
-
Patent number: 8629572Abstract: Various embodiments of linear electric generators and arrangements thereof are disclosed. One such generator includes a permanent magnetic array with magnets that are oriented such that like poles of the magnets are disposed adjacently to concentrate a magnetic field through a coil array. To enhance the magnetic field distribution, the magnets are affixed under a compressive strain due to repulsive forces resulting from proximity of the like poles. According to another aspect, a plurality of vibrational linear electric generators (VLEGs) can be arranged so that magnets of different VLEGs are oriented so that poles of opposite polarity are disposed adjacently to further enhance magnetic field concentration through coil arrays. In addition, a plurality of wave energy converters can be arranged in very close proximity, at most 8 times a height of a buoyant portion of the converters, to act as a seawall and thereby protect various structures from ocean waves.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2012Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Inventor: Reed E. Phillips
-
Patent number: 8624417Abstract: Apparatus and method is disclosed for generating usable power derived from oscillatory hydro-kinetic energy available in the movement of waves having a given height and being spaced apart by a predetermined distance at the surface of a body of water. Apparatus and method is disclosed for generating usable power derived from hydro-kinetic energy available in a body of water moving in at least one direction of movement, the at least one direction being substantially horizontal or substantially vertical. Apparatus and method is disclosed for generating usable power derived from hydro-gravitational forces available at a site having a source of water at a first elevation higher than a second elevation at a selected location where the usable power is to be derived.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2011Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Inventor: SaeHeum Song
-
Publication number: 20130341921Abstract: A system and method for generating energy from tuning the natural frequency of masses relative to a ground plane and an external three. In some embodiments the external three is the action of the waves. The system has a first mass movable relative to the ground plane, wherein the external force induces an oscillation in the first mass relative to the ground plane. A second movable mass is carried by and movable relative to the first movable mass. The second movable mass creates kinetic energy as the result of varying the position of the second movable mass relative to the first mass. The system adjusts or tunes the frequency of various components in relation to the natural frequency of the waves. The energy created by the relative motion can be converted to various forms of energy including electrical energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2013Publication date: December 26, 2013Inventor: Glenn L. Beane
-
Patent number: 8614521Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for converting the energy of the swell and of waves into useable energy, particularly electrical energy, comprising a float element (2), an oscillating element (3) mounted such that it can move with respect to the float element, the oscillating element (3) being able to be set in relative motion with respect to the float element (2) under the action of the waves on the float element and means (4) for converting the movement of the oscillating element (3) into useable energy, particularly electrical energy, the device (1) also comprising braking means (5) capable selectively of immobilizing or releasing the oscillating element (3) with respect to the float element, clutch means (7) able selectively to couple or to uncouple the conversion means (4) and the oscillating element (3), and control means (8) for controlling the braking means (5) and the clutch means (7) as the swell evolves.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2009Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignees: Ecole Centrale de Nantes, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)Inventors: Arélien Babarit, Michel Guglielmi, Alain Clement
-
Patent number: 8614520Abstract: An ocean wave energy converter uses one or more buoyant elongated float(s) self orienting toward oncoming wave fronts and movably affixed to a motion stabilized controlled buoyancy frame by down sloping tracks constraining the wave induced motion of the float(s) to an upward and rearward motion as oncoming wave crests impact and lift the barrier(s) and downward and forward as subsequent wave troughs return it. Motion between the barrier(s) and the frame is resisted and energy captured by a programmable electric or hydraulic power take off system. Capture efficiency is further enhanced by adjusting float mass and buoyancy by controlling water entering or exiting cavities in the float(s), use of wave shoaling and focusing means, and adjusting the submerged depth and slope angle of the device with adjustable frame air-water ballast tanks which also allow total float submergence during severe sea states.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2012Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Rohrer Technologies, Inc.Inventor: John Rohrer
-
Publication number: 20130334816Abstract: A method for operating a wave energy converter for converting energy from a wave motion of a fluid into another form of energy, wherein the wave energy converter has a lever arm, which is mounted so as to be rotatable about a rotor rotational axis and bears a coupling body and an energy converter which is coupled to the rotatably mounted lever arm, includes controlling a rotational speed of the lever arm about the rotor rotational axis such that, averaged over time over one revolution, it corresponds to an orbital speed of the wave motion, and controlling the rotational speed of the lever arm such that an angle between a tangential speed of the coupling body and of a local flow rate of the wave motion about the coupling body deviates at maximum by a predefinable value of 90°.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Inventors: Nicolas Houis, Benjamin Hagemann, Alexander Poddey
-
Patent number: 8607437Abstract: An energy harvesting device (EHD) and method including a hollow outer envelope (201) having an inner wall (200) with a first predetermined magnetic field distributed on an inner surface of the inner wall, at least one inner core (202), free to move in the hollow envelope (200) characterized by a second predetermined magnetic field distributed on an inner surface of the at least inner core, the inner core being characterized by one or more convex projections of magnetically active material, at least one conducting loop (203) disposed at locations selected from the group consisting of the outer envelope and the at least inner core, so as to be suffused with magnetic flux due to the magnetic field distributions of the at least one inner core and the at least one outer envelope and generating an alternating current due to movement of the inner core within the outer envelope and a rectifying circuit in electrical connection with the at least one conducting loop (203) rectifying the alternating current into a curreType: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Inventor: Uri Rapoport
-
Patent number: 8610302Abstract: A water wave power plant system includes a first guide rail, a first clockwise freewheel, a first counterclockwise freewheel, a first buoy queued through the through-hole by the first guide rail, first right and left roller, a first chain belt having engaging the first clockwise freewheel, the first counterclockwise freewheel, the first right roller, and the first left roller on the first plane, and corresponding second set of equivalent elements to tap the water wave energy in an opposite direction. Each of the guide rail includes a rectangular tube, first embedded-rollers installed in the rectangular tube rotatably with two partial portions exposed on two parallel outer wall of the rectangular tube, and second embedded-rollers installed in the first rectangular tube rotatably likewise, wherein the first embedded-rollers and the second embedded-rollers are disposed perpendicularly with respect to each other. A self-propelling ship is constructed using the water wave power plant systems.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2012Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Inventor: Kye Young Lee
-
Patent number: 8610319Abstract: An energy harvesting device (EHD) and method including a hollow outer envelope (201) having an inner wall (200) with a first predetermined magnetic field distributed on an inner surface of the inner wall, at least one inner core (202), free to move in the hollow envelope (200) characterized by a second predetermined magnetic field distributed on an inner surface of the at least inner core, the inner core being characterized by one or more convex projections of magnetically active material, at least one conducting loop (203) disposed at locations selected from the group consisting of the outer envelope and the at least inner core, so as to be suffused with magnetic flux due to the magnetic field distributions of the at least one inner core and the at least one outer envelope and generating an alternating current due to movement of the inner core within the outer envelope and a rectifying circuit in electrical connection with the at least one conducting loop (203) rectifying the alternating current into a curreType: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Inventor: Uri Rapoport
-
Patent number: 8601808Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a Hydrokinetic & Wind Energy Harvester, placed in a wave-swash zone or in a flowing stream captures energy through water turbines and a wind turbine. A funnel guides water to converge and impinge on water turbines housed in a pipe. A trash guard attached to the funnel prevents trash from entering the pipe. A rotational transmission-system with one-way clutches transmits torque to an alternator to generate electricity. Flywheels maintain steady rotation of alternator shaft. A buoyancy chamber at the bottom produces reduction of weight of the unit in water, thereby enhances maneuverability of unit in water. Stabilization tank at the top when filled with water provides extra weight and stability against sliding and overturning of the unit in its operating location. An energy farm combines the energy of several units linked together; in coastal water, units form a seawall-like barrier mitigating coastal erosion.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2012Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Inventor: Erat S. Joseph
-
Patent number: 8604631Abstract: An ocean wave energy converter utilizes a substantially submerged elongated absorption barrier oriented parallel to oncoming wave fronts having one or more substantially submerged air or gas filled variable volume vessels located between a relatively fixed position rigid rearward surface and a moving rigid wave front facing surface. Said vessel(s) are compressed by oncoming overhead wave crests both by increased hydrostatic pressure and wave kinetic impact, thereby capturing both wave potential energy (hydrostatic or heave) and kinetic (impact or surge) energy. Vessel compression is resisted by hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical or linear electric generation means. Vessel re-expansion, when wave troughs are overhead, utilize hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, and/or mechanical (gravity mass or spring) means.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2011Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Rohrer Technologies, Inc.Inventor: John W. Rohrer
-
Patent number: 8590299Abstract: A device to capture and store or generate energy from variations in water level of a water body has a housing and an input shaft rotatably mounted to the housing. A drive belt is rotatably connected to the input shaft and a float is attached to that drive belt so that the float reciprocally drives the input shaft as the water levels increase and decrease. An output shaft is also rotatably mounted to the housing while a first one-way clutch is operatively disposed between the input shaft and the output shaft so that the input shaft rotatably drives the output shaft through the clutch in one rotational direction. A reversing gear is rotatably mounted to the housing and rotatably drives a second one-way clutch also operatively coupled to the second shaft to drive the second shaft in the same rotational direction as the first clutch, but during the opposite rotation of the input shaft.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2011Date of Patent: November 26, 2013Inventor: Philip Padula