Tide And Wave Motors Patents (Class 290/53)
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Patent number: 8901766Abstract: A wave action electric generating system comprises a platform floating on water, the platform being subject to rocking from side to side from wave action; an electric generator disposed on the platform; a pulley engagable with the generator in a first direction to power the generator, and free-wheeling with the generator in a second direction opposite the first direction; a spring to rewind the cable; an arm extending over the water, the arm including a far end that moves substantially up and down over the water as the platform rocks from side to side; a cable operably connected to the pulley and supported by the far end, the cable pulling on the pulley in the first direction and rewinding around the pulley in the second direction; a member disposed in the water and connected to another end of the cable, the member resisting lifting as the far end moves upwardly from wave action thereby to unwind the cable and drive the generator, the member resisting sinking as the far end moves downwardly, thereby to rewindType: GrantFiled: June 12, 2009Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Inventor: Alexander K. Werjefelt
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Patent number: 8887501Abstract: The invention relates to a wave power plant, comprising at least one float or pontoon (1) or a plurality of interconnected floats or pontoons (2). The float or pontoon (1) is shaped or the interconnected floats or pontoons (2) are disposed asymmetrically relative to the advancing direction of waves, such that the float or pontoon (1) or a member (3) linking the interconnected floats or pontoons is set in a gyrating motion in response to the buoyancy of a succession of waves advancing in said direction. The wave power plant includes elements (5, 6, 7; 9, 10) for converting the gyrating motion into a rotational motion for power take-off.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2008Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Wello OyInventor: Heikki Paakkinen
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Patent number: 8884455Abstract: A wave energy converter comprises a rotor, which is designed to convert a wave movement of a body of water, in which the wave energy converter is arranged, into a rotational movement of the rotor, wherein a mean density of at least one rotating component of the rotor can be adjusted and/or is lower than the mean density of the fluid surrounding the rotor in the body of water. The disclosure likewise relates to a corresponding control device and an operating method.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2013Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Stefan Reimer, Nicolas Houis, Nik Scharmann, Benjamin Hagemann, Markus Perschall, Alexander Poddey, Yukio Kamizuru, Michael Hilsch, Johannes Nitzsche, Jasper Behrendt
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Patent number: 8878381Abstract: The disclosure provides a device for converting wave motion into electricity, and methods of using the devices for generating electricity. The disclosure also provides a power generation device that includes a water blanket having a plurality of pods arranged in a grid for floating on the surface of a body of water. In one example, ball joints and hydraulic cylinders couple each of the pods to adjacent pods. Motors are coupled to the hydraulic cylinders such that a flow of hydraulic fluid created by expansion and compression of the cylinders due to movement of the pods causes rotational motion in the motor. Generators are coupled to respective motors to generate electricity from the rotational motion of the motors. Power from the ocean blanket can be supplemental with wind turbines, water paddles, water turbines, and solar cells.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2012Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Global Perpetual Energy, Inc.Inventor: Terry Wayne Henry
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Publication number: 20140319839Abstract: The invention relates to a wave power plant, comprising a floating body (1) and means for converting the wave energy received by the body into electric power. The front side of the cross-section of the body (1) opposite to the main incoming direction (A) of the waves is designed to slant forward and upwards in its upper part (11) and to slant backwards and downwards in its lower part (12), in such a way that the propagating wave meets the upper and lower part wave at different stages, whereby the lower part tends to move mainly in the opposite direction with respect to the upper part.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2012Publication date: October 30, 2014Inventor: Heikki Paakkinen
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Patent number: 8869524Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2012Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Ocean Power Technologies, IncInventors: David B. Stewart, William B. Powers
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Patent number: 8866327Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the utilization of wave energy, with an increased efficiency. Thereto, the device according to the invention comprises a Darrieus rotor having at least two Darrieus rotor blades, wherein the Darrieus rotor has a solidity ?D, and a Wells rotor having at least two Wells rotor blades, wherein the Wells rotor has a solidity ?W, wherein the Darrieus rotor and the Wells rotor are rotatable about a common axis of rotation A, and ?W is larger than or equal to ?D. The invention also relates to a method for harnessing wave energy.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2009Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: IHC Holland IE B.V.Inventor: Peter Cornelis Scheijgrond
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Patent number: 8866321Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating electricity from ocean wave energy by using a floating device having a first portion that is movably coupled to a second portion. A hydraulic pump is coupled between these portions such that when the floating device is exposed to ocean wave energy, the hydraulic fluid within the pump is displaced. A flow rectifier is used to create a unidirectional hydraulic fluid flow that is dispensed through a rotary-vane pump which, in turn, is coupled to an electrical generator. Thus, as the rotary-vane pump is activated by the unidirectional hydraulic fluid flow, the rotary-vane pump turns the electrical generator for generating electricity. A plurality of hydraulic pumps and associated flow rectifiers, rotary-vane pumps and electrical generators can be coupled between the first and second portions.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2013Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Murtech, Inc.Inventors: Michael E. McCormick, Robert Murtha
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Patent number: 8866328Abstract: Wave energy conversion systems are provided utilizing a mass of water entrained in a collapsible water mass enclosure that is suspended beneath a float (e.g., a vehicle, buoy, platform, etc.) to provide an inertial force in opposition to the rising heave-induced acceleration of the float. The water mass enclosure is in communication with a generator, such as by tethering one end of a tethering component to the generator and the other to the enclosure. The enclosure may be placed in communication with an intermediary hydraulic system, which is also in communication with the generator. In certain embodiments, the system will include a reel system for deploying and retrieving the water masse enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2012Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: Leidos, Inc.Inventors: Steven C. Hench, Charles R. Fralick, Christopher J. Eckert
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Patent number: 8866320Abstract: An energy generator for generating energy from renewable alternative sources, includes: a flotable platform adapted to be partially immersed in a fluid; a tower element arranged on the platform and including at least one wind generator for collecting wind energy and converting the same into electric energy, at least one first energy accumulator and at least one inverter. The energy generator further includes at least one system for storing and converting mechanical energy; the system for storing and converting mechanical energy including at least one charge mechanical accumulator, at least one flywheel balance coupled with the charge mechanical accumulator and a device for converting mechanical energy into electric energy.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2009Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Inventor: Vittorio Perregrini
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Patent number: 8863511Abstract: This is a low-cost, ingenious, high-efficiency energy producing system from hydrokinetic energy in water waves, currents and tides. Cost advantages are due to the use of existing bridge structures to mount the water energy converter to withstand fierce wind and water forces.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2013Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Inventor: Paul M Swamidass
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Publication number: 20140306455Abstract: A system and method comprising a first, second and third hull. An arm extending from the first hull to the second hull where the arm is coupled to a power take off module in the second hull for transferring relative motion between the second hull and the arm into electrical energy. A second arm extending from the second hull to the third hull. The second arm coupled to another power take off device in the third hull for transferring relative motion between the third hull and the second arm into electrical energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2014Publication date: October 16, 2014Applicant: GREY ISLAND ENERGY INC.Inventors: Brian LUNDRIGAN, Tim GARDINER
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Publication number: 20140306454Abstract: The present invention provides an ocean energy generating device and a built-in module thereof. The built-in module of an ocean energy generating device includes an inner frame, a rotating shaft, a driving unit, at least one horizontal-axis generator, and at least one water flow deflector. The rotating shaft is rotatably disposed at the inner frame. The driving unit is connected with the rotating shaft to drive the rotating shaft to rotate. At least one horizontal-axis generator is fixed to the rotating shaft and a direction of an axis of the horizontal-axis generator is parallel to a horizontal plane. The water flow deflector is fixed to the inner frame. The ocean energy generating device includes at least one built-in module of the ocean energy generating device and an outer frame. The inner frame is detachably disposed in the outer frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2013Publication date: October 16, 2014Applicant: Hangzhou LHD Institute of New Energy, LLCInventors: Dong LIN, Changzheng HUANG, Zhenghan CHEN
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Publication number: 20140300110Abstract: The present disclosure provides a wave energy gathering and enhancing device disposed in a setting area of the sea-bed. A seawater wave approaches the wave energy gathering and enhancing device with a wave vector. The wave energy gathering and enhancing device comprises a plurality of structures. The plurality of structures are arranged below the sea surface in a two-dimensional symmetric discrete group. Each of the structures has a top surface and the top surface is located below the sea surface with a predetermined depth. A lattice with a definte lattice constant is formed by the plurality of structures. The lattice plane formed by the structures and the wave vector of the seawater wave form an angle. The structures enhance the amplitude of the seawater wave when the seawater wave interacts with and passes through the structures.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2013Publication date: October 9, 2014Inventors: SHENG DER CHAO, SHUO FENG CHIU, YAO HUNG HUANG, CHUN CHIEH WANG, SSU CHE WANG, CHIN-CHOU CHU
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Publication number: 20140290233Abstract: This disclosure provides improved nautical craft that can travel and navigate on their own. A hybrid vessel is described that converts wave motion to locomotive thrust by mechanical means, and also converts wave motion to electrical power for storage in a battery. The electrical power can then be tapped to provide locomotive power during periods where wave motion is inadequate and during deployment. The electrical power can also be tapped to even out the undulating thrust that is created when locomotion of the vessel is powered by wave motion alone.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2014Publication date: October 2, 2014Inventors: Roger G. Hine, Derek L. Hine
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Patent number: 8847420Abstract: A device for generating electrical energy by harnessing the energy of waves includes an enveloping housing (1) divided into: a lower air chamber (23) containing a generator (14) and a high tonnage weight (12), suspended from an upper axle (10) mechanically connected to a lower axle (16); an intermediate chamber (24) that includes water inlets/outlets (22) and is open at the top by means of an air outlet (29); and an upper chamber (25) including a compressor (6), a turbine (4) and a generator (5). The compressor (6) is mechanically actuated by an electric motor or by mechanical transmission by a chain (7) connecting the upper axle (10) of the lower chamber (23) and the axle of the compressor (6), and generates pressurized air for removing the water from the intermediate chamber (24).Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Inventors: Diego Garrido García, Carlos Santos Gutierrez, Ruben Ferrero Castro
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Patent number: 8841788Abstract: A Wave Energy Converter (WEC) (70) to be applied in water vehicles (100, 200) and floating bodies (300) is described. The WEC (70) involves a mass-spring-damper system comprising at least one oscillating mass (12), springs (14) at the rate of at least two springs (14) for each oscillating mass (12), said springs (14) being arranged radially to said oscillating mass (12), and at least two power take-off (PTO) devices (13) having different degrees of freedom (DOF). WEC (70) is applied in the motoring and concomitant or alternative energy generation in water vehicles (100, 200) and floating bodies (300). Energy generation is consequent to external disturbances including waves, currents and conventional motoring which results in oscillations in the system containing said WEC (70).Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2010Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Inventor: Marcelo Regattieri Sampaio
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Patent number: 8841792Abstract: A system for producing an output from wave energy for use on an offshore, nearshore or onshore facility includes a support structure having a columnar volume with a first opening and a second opening and a movable piston plate housed therein; and a buoyant system surrounding the support structure, wherein the buoyant system is coupled to the piston plate by a linkage system, wherein the piston plate shifts in response to an oscillation of water level causing the buoyant system to shift, wherein air flow within the columnar volume varies in response to the oscillation of water level, and wherein such oscillation is realized at a prescribed rate controlled by a variable tuning orifice.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2013Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: Chevron U.S.A., Inc.Inventor: Jesse W. Teichman
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Publication number: 20140265341Abstract: Gravitational potential energy of a weight raised to a height is converted into kinetic energy and then into electricity, as the weight falls from the height. An apparatus includes a buoyant weight, a gravity fall chamber including a chain, a buoyancy chamber including a liquid, and a receiving portion connecting the gravity fall chamber and buoyancy chamber. The buoyant weight is raised to the height near a top of the gravity fall chamber and then allowed to fall from the height. The fall of the weight moves the chain which in turn operates a generator for producing electricity from the potential energy. After falling from the height, the weight is submerged in the liquid in the receiving portion and rises to a surface level of the liquid inside the buoyancy chamber before being positioned in a predetermined position for another fall in the gravity fall chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventors: Gyu Eob Hwang, Si Dae Kim
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Publication number: 20140265340Abstract: A system and method for harnessing power associated with ocean waves and converting that power into electricity. The apparatus houses a vertically oriented central shaft, a pendulum, a generator, and other components that operate to optimize power output of the generator. Various operating parameters may be initially set and later changed to effectuate a restoring force applied to the apparatus against wave motion so that generator output is maximized. The optimum restoring force may vary according to changing environmental conditions. A library of environmental data and associated parameter values, tuning responses, and the like is stored at a central location or local to the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: Neptune Wave Power LLCInventor: Steven C. Hench
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Publication number: 20140265338Abstract: A wave energy converter (WEC) includes a prismatic float having a quadrilateral-like cross section including a front plate, for facing incoming waves, a top plate, a bottom plate and a back plate. The front plate is connected at its top edge to the front end of the top plate which is disposed to be generally parallel to the surface of the water and at its bottom edge to the front end of the bottom plate. The plates are interconnected such that the sides of the top and front plates define an acute angle and the sides of the front and bottom plates define an obtuse angle. The back panel is connected between the back end of the top plate and the back end of the bottom plate. The exterior angle between the back panel and the top plate is generally less than 90 degrees. An extension plate may be added to the bottom plate which extends rearward of the float.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventors: JAMES G. BRETL, JAMES EDER
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Publication number: 20140265339Abstract: The invention is a wave energy device which optimizes energy conversion from waves with a stable submerged platform coupled to compliant chain of floats (“pods”) which are connected to the platform by piston pumps. Wave action drives pumps to deliver pressurized water to a hydro turbine coupled to an electric generator for delivery of electric power to shore via a submarine cable. Alternatively, the pressurized water may be delivered to shore through pipes on the ocean floor, to generate electric power, also as input flow for reverse osmosis potable water production and for cooling applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 15, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: James G.P. Dehlsen
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Patent number: 8836155Abstract: A hydrodynamic array comprises multiple hydrodynamic elements, including a tidal modulator, for producing electricity by the motion of ocean tides or river currents and forces acting on the hydrodynamic array, which is immersed in ocean tides or river currents and which is in motion relative to the ocean tides or river currents. A viaduct with mass transit tunnels sits atop the hydrodynamic array.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2011Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Blue Energy Canada Inc.Inventor: Martin Burger
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Patent number: 8836152Abstract: A wave energy converter has a shell, a pendulum pivotally positioned in the shell, a pump linked to the pendulum and operable by a movement of the pendulum so as to pump a hydraulic fluid outwardly therefrom, a motor interconnected to the pump such that the hydraulic fluid from the pump causes a rotation of the motor, and an electrical generator connected to the motor such that the rotation of the motor causes the electrical generator to produce electrical energy. A pendulum adjuster can be operatively connected to the pendulum so as to change a center of gravity of the pendulum.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2011Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Inventor: Miles Hobdy
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Patent number: 8834115Abstract: This girder (8) for supporting a tidal turbine fairing has a parallelogram-shaped cross-section (S), taken perpendicularly to a longitudinal axis (A8) of the girder (8). It includes at least one slot (86a, 86b) extending generally parallel with the longitudinal axis (A8) of the girder (8). a cross-section (S) taken perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis (A8) of the girder (8), the traces of the surfaces bordering the slot (86a, 86b) extend from one of the long sides (801, 803) of the cross-section (S) to an adjacent short side (802, 804) of the cross-section (S).Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2011Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Alstom Renewable TechnologiesInventors: Nicolas Pot, Thibault Thouvenin
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Patent number: 8836153Abstract: The present invention relates to a wave-power aggregate and a method of extracting energy from wave motion in a liquid by means of a wave-power aggregate. The wave-power aggregate comprises a container which is situated at least partially in the liquid and also comprises an inflow and an outflow. The container is arranged to, under the influence of said wave motion, to let a first part of the container arrange itself in a first position and a second part of the container in a second position, where the first and second position corresponds to different potential energy states. The method comprises the steps of: alternately supplying the container with at least a first and a second fluid respectively via the inflow, where the density of the fluids differs. at least during an initial stage of the method controlling a flow resistance in at least one of the first and second fluids through the container.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2013Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Vigor Wave Energy ABInventor: Daniel Ehrnberg
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Publication number: 20140252766Abstract: A wave energy converter is described that can change shape to mechanically tune itself to change the amount of water that the converter pushes up and down. In effect, the wave energy converter employs variable virtual added mass to tune the wave energy converter to the waves, thereby increasing the energy extraction from the waves. The shape change or variable virtual added mass type system can be employed on any type of wave energy converter including, but not limited to, point absorber wave energy converters.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 4, 2014Publication date: September 11, 2014Applicant: LOCKHEED MARTIN CORPORATIONInventors: Richard P. CLARK, Floria E. CLEMENTS
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Patent number: 8829703Abstract: A wave power plant, including a floating body and a rotator capable of rotating in response to the body's floating motion, characterized in that two or more bodies are elastically moored at a distance varying from each other according to wave conditions, said distance in the traveling direction of waves being unequal to a half of the wave length or a multiple thereof, and that rotation of the rotators present in various bodies is synchronized so as to provide a desired phase shift between the rotational angles of rotators present in various bodies.Type: GrantFiled: July 4, 2011Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Wello OyInventor: Heikki Paakkinen
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Patent number: 8823196Abstract: An apparatus of wave generators and a mooring system is used to generate electricity includes a floating hull and an anti-drift mooring system. The floating hull that functions as the floating member is tensionably coupled with a subsurface environment by the anti-drift mooring system, where the anti-drift mooring system can include different embodiments depending on the subsurface environment. Articulated pulley systems of the floating hull allow the anti-drift mooring system to efficiently maximize the power output of wave generator units of the floating hull as the articulated pulley systems and the wave generator units are positioned within the floating hull.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2014Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Inventor: Donald H Gehring
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Publication number: 20140239643Abstract: A system for generating electrical energy from sea waves comprising a floating body and a gyroscope structure (4) set thereon and comprising: —a first frame (6) mounted so that it can turn with respect to the floating body about a first axis of rotation (E); and —a rotor (8), which is mounted so that it can turn about a second axis of rotation (?), is carried by said first frame, and is substantially orthogonal to said first axis; said system further comprising electric-generator means (14) operatively connected to said first frame for generating electrical energy as a result of rotation of said first frame about said first axis (E). The system comprises actuator means (22, 24, 26; 14, 32, 34) designed to control rotation of said first frame about said first axis, as a function of the angular position of said first frame in such a way that in operation said first frame will perform complete rotations through 360° about said first axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2012Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: Wave for Energy S.R. L.Inventor: Vincenzo Orlando
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Publication number: 20140239642Abstract: A wave-driven power generation system that uses a motor reducer to turn a rocker bar in moving wave-making barrels alternatively up and down, causing creation of water waves in a water reservoir so that a float board in the water reservoir is moved by created water waves to rotate transmission mechanisms that are coupled to respective power generators through inertia wheel sets, and thus, the power generators are driven to generate electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Inventors: Sheng-Po Peng, Sheng-Da Peng, Kevin Peng
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Patent number: 8814515Abstract: A floating turbine, including a vertical substantially fixed structure such as a pile or cable, a hydroelectric turbine, a connecting piece between the turbine and the structure that is operative to enable vertical motion of the turbine on the surface of the water.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2008Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Inventor: Daniel Farb
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Publication number: 20140232115Abstract: A funnel jet electric generator includes at least one funnel jet each having a funnel body defining a channel, a funnel extension tube connected to a first end portion of the funnel body for capturing a wave crest, and a nozzle connected to a second end portion of the funnel body, wherein the wave crest is guided into the funnel body along the channel and projects out through the nozzle to produce a water jet. The kinetic energy of the water jet is transmitted to the electric generator for producing electricity through the power transmission system.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 15, 2013Publication date: August 21, 2014Inventors: Kam Chu LO, Raymond LO
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Publication number: 20140232116Abstract: Apparatuses and associated methods for converting wave energy into electrical energy are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a surface-based buoy can be connected to a magnetostrictive element that changes its output voltage when subjected to the in tension. To keep the heave plate under tension, a tether with a heave plate can be attached to the magnetostrictive element. Since the magnetostrictive element can be sensitive to zero tension (e.g., a slack in the tether) followed by a sudden increase in the tension, in at least some embodiments it is preferred to keep the magnetostrictive element tensioned at all times. In some embodiments of the present technology, an inertia-dominated heave plate may be designed to sink faster than the buoy falls in the trough of the wave, therefore keeping the tether tensioned at all times. For example, the design (e.g.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 21, 2014Publication date: August 21, 2014Applicant: University of Washington through its Center for CommercializationInventors: James M. Thomson, Joseph L. Talbert, Alex deKlerk, Curtis Rusch, Zachary Murphree
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Patent number: 8807963Abstract: A wave powered energy conversion system operable to convert the motion of ocean waves into a usable form of energy such as electricity. The wave powered energy conversion system includes a storage tank operable to store air pressurized to a pressure greater than that of atmospheric air. A frame assembly circumferentially surrounds the storage tank and consists of sub-frame assemblies organized into quadrants. The frame assembly is movable and has operably coupled thereto a plurality of buoyant objects. A plurality of air pumps are present that are connected to the frame assembly and further connected to an air delivery pipe network. The buoyant objects are operable to move at least a portion of the frame assembly so as to operate at least a portion of the plurality of air pumps so as to produce pressurized air to be distributed to the storage tank.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2012Date of Patent: August 19, 2014Inventor: Sudhir Pandit
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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
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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
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Publication number: 20140225371Abstract: The device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion. The device includes at least one magnetostrictive element and at least one force modifier. The force modifier is coupled to the magnetostrictive element. The force modifier receives an input force and applies a modified force to the magnetostrictive element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2014Publication date: August 14, 2014Applicant: Oscilla Power Inc.Inventors: Balakrishnan Nair, Jesse Alan Nachlas, Zachary Murphree
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Publication number: 20140217737Abstract: The invention relates to a wave-power system for generating electricity, in which a pendular buoy captures the wave energy and transfers the movement unidirectionally to a flywheel inside a pressurised box. The shaft of the flywheel transmits the energy to a hydraulic pump and the hydraulic flow travels through flexible tubes into a Pelton turbine. The shaft of the turbine moves a variable-weight flywheel which transmits its movement to a transmission shaft to which multiple reduction gearboxes are connected in series. A high-pressure air compressor is connected for each gearbox, the compressors being placed in parallel and joined to a steel matrix that is in turn connected to a large-volume hyperbaric tank for storing pneumatic energy. A throttling control the speed and power thereof, and the mechanical force of the pneumatic motor is transferred to the electric generators.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2012Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: Eduardo Javier Egaña Castillo
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Publication number: 20140217736Abstract: A wave-driven power generation system that uses a motor reducer to turn a rocker bar in moving wave-making barrels alternatively up and down, causing creation of water waves in water reservoirs so that float boards in the water reservoirs are moved by created water waves to rotate a transmission gearbox that is coupled to a power generating unit through an inertia wheel set, and thus, the power generating unit is driven to generate electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2014Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: Sheng-Po Peng
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Publication number: 20140217733Abstract: This is a system of kinetic power generating stations including a plurality of opposing units needed to generate electrical power from the constant motion of waves. Utilizing mixed gas inside the flexible membrane component of the piston to maximize the effects of the changing weight of the passing waves is being employed to assure continuity and uninterrupted movement of the piston assemblies. These “lollipop” pistons are required for electricity generation from waves. The entire system is designed with limited maintenance requirements and allowing for ease of accessibility, either while submerged or while being surfaced for review and repair. Connected as a field of generators offshore from a shore side inter-connect these units will be virtually out-of-site, out-of-mind, preserving the visual environment of a pristine beachside location. The units can be programmed to provide an underwater light show while serving as a beacon to passing vessels.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2012Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: Stephan Vincent Kroecker
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Publication number: 20140217734Abstract: A wave-making and power-generating system uses a motor reducer to move a wave-making drum up and down in a water reservoir via a rocker arm, causing a float to rotate a power generator for generating electricity by a transmission mechanism via an inertial wheel set. A small amount of electricity can move the wave-making drum to drive the power generator to generate electricity. Multiple floats can be used with a respective transmission mechanism and a respective inertial wheel set to drive one power generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2013Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: Sheng-Po Peng
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Publication number: 20140217735Abstract: An ocean wave generator device, comprising: a first buoy, a first flared opening, a second flared opening, and a generator component, wherein said first flared opening and second flared opening are respectively disposed on two sides of said generator component and are, along with said generator component, fixed to said first buoy; ocean wave water passes via one flared opening to said generator component, and then flows via said generator component to the other flared opening. The present invention also provides an ocean wave generator system comprising the ocean wave generator device and a position fixing device. The ocean wave generator system fully utilizes the lateral kinetic and potential energy as well as the undulating vertical kinetic and potential energy of ocean waves. By using the diffraction principles of waves, the present invention allows for the large-scale harnessing of the ocean waves that rush inward along the coastline, and allows for greatly reduced implementation costs.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2012Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: He Chen
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Patent number: 8786122Abstract: A hydrokinetic water turbine system includes a frame structure, a horizontally-disposed rotor shaft supported by the frame structure, and a rotor secured to the rotor shaft. The rotor has a plurality of spaced-apart blades so that the flowing stream of water revolves the rotor. The flowing stream of water rotates the rotor shaft, which drives a liquid pump, which pumps a liquid to a desired location. Such as, for example, pumping water from the flowing stream to an irrigations system.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: DLZ CorporationInventors: Vikram V. Rajadhyaksha, Roger Sam Huff, Mookencheril P. Cherian
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Patent number: 8786121Abstract: A wave-making and power-generating system uses a motor reducer to move a wave-making drum up and down in a water reservoir via a rocker arm, causing a float to rotate a power generator for generating electricity by a transmission mechanism via an inertial wheel set. A small amount of electricity can move the wave-making drum to drive the power generator to generate electricity. Multiple floats can be used with a respective transmission mechanism and a respective inertial wheel set to drive one power generator.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2013Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Inventor: Sheng-Po Peng
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Patent number: 8779613Abstract: The invention relates to a system for generating energy from ocean wave movement, comprising at least: one vessel (2) having at least one rotor shaft (3) that acts on an electricity generator; at least one tank (5) which is joined and solidly connected to the vessel (2) and which is full of sea water such that it remains at the water line (f); at least one float (1) joined to the vessel (2) by means of a boom (11); and mechanical means for transmitting the movement of the float (1) to the corresponding rotor shaft (3). In addition, the vessel (2) is attached to a float frame (4). A plurality of vessels (2) can be connected to a float frame (4) and/or a plurality of float frames (4) can be connected to one another. Furthermore, one or more tanks (5) can be attached to said float frames.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Inventor: Francisco Azpiroz Villar
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Patent number: 8777555Abstract: A tidal turbine system includes yaw drive for rotating the turbine between a first position associated with tidal flow and a second position associated with tidal ebbs. The yaw drive is capable of moving the tidal turbine to a position where the tidal turbine is pointed substantially directly into the tidal flow in the first position and substantially into the tidal ebb in a second position. A method for harvesting tidal energy includes rotating the tidal turbine between one of the first position and the second position.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2013Date of Patent: July 15, 2014Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Benjamin Balbir, Richard J. Handwerg, Tejbir Arora, Richard P. Clark
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Publication number: 20140191508Abstract: A rotary joint for use in a system for generating energy from water power, the joint comprising a first rotationally symmetrical connecting element and a second rotationally symmetrical connecting element disposed concentrically with the first connecting element and rotatable relative thereto, an annular gap between the two connecting elements, and a row of rolling elements rolling along a race on each of the connecting elements, wherein provided to seal the annular gap is a sealing device having a sealing ring fixed to the first connecting element, and a circumferential sealing lip, or sealing surface, extends along a lead-in surface, wherein the second connecting element is divided into a race ring, with at least one race, and a lead-in ring with a lead-in surface for at least one sealing ring, the lead-in ring being removably connected to at least one race ring.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2012Publication date: July 10, 2014Applicant: IMO Holding GmbHInventors: Werner Schröppel, Hubertus Frank, Georg Hofmann
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Publication number: 20140183868Abstract: The present invention provides a power conversion mechanism incorporated as part of a wave energy converter device which utilises the kinetic energy of an incident wave field experienced through the relative motion of a body or any other similar means connected to a reactive structure resulting in the localisation of mechanical forces towards a central nodal point for subsequent exploitation via conversion to a useful form. It comprises a mechanical coupling connectable between a reactive body and a wave actuated body with a first body connectable to the reactive body and a second body connectable to the wave actuated body, the first body and the second body being rotatably coupled together about an axis of rotation.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2011Publication date: July 3, 2014Applicant: ALBATERN LIMITEDInventor: David Findlay
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Patent number: 8766470Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 26, 2013Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Gwave LLCInventor: Glenn L. Beane