Guided Patents (Class 417/333)
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Patent number: 11002243Abstract: A submergible wave energy converter and method for using the same are described. Such a wave energy converter may be used for deep water operations. In one embodiment, the wave energy converter apparatus comprises an absorber having a body with an upper surface and a bottom surface and at least one power take-off (PTO) unit coupled to the absorber and configured to displace movement of the absorber body relative to a reference, where the power take-off unit is operable to perform motion energy conversion based on displacement of the absorber body relative to the reference in response to wave excitation, and where the power take-off unit is operable to return the absorber body from a displaced position to a predefined equilibrium position and to provide a force acting on the absorber body for energy extraction.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2018Date of Patent: May 11, 2021Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Marcus Lehmann, Mohammad-Reza Alam, Thomas Boerner, Nigel Kojimoto, Bryan Murray
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Patent number: 10619621Abstract: A system for producing drive energy includes a control unit, and an intensifier that receives water from a water source and oil from an oil source, pressurizes the oil, and transfers pressurized oil. The system also includes a compression cylinder that receives oil from the oil source and the pressurized oil from the intensifier so that oil collected in the compression cylinder is pressurized to a predetermined pressure, and that transfers the oil at the predetermined pressure. A control valve is provided for controlling the oil to be received by the compression cylinder from the oil source and for controlling the oil transferred at the predetermined pressure. The system includes a hydraulic motor that receives the oil transferred at the predetermined pressure, and utilizes the predetermined pressure to drive the hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor turns a generator so that the generator produces energy without the expenditure of fossil fuel.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2019Date of Patent: April 14, 2020Inventor: John M Johnson
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Patent number: 10400741Abstract: A wave energy converter can be dynamically tuned to achieve resonance with ocean swell by varying the geometry of an attached submerged water-filled vessel (41).Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2015Date of Patent: September 3, 2019Inventor: Bruce Gregory
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Patent number: 10280901Abstract: A wind power generation system comprising: a wind power generation equipment having a rotor which is operative to convert energy of received wind to rotational energy, a rotatable nacelle which supports the rotor, a tower which supports the rotatable nacelle, a floating body which supports the tower and at least a part of the floating body is positioned above the surface of the sea, a fixing member which is installed or fixed on the sea bed, a mooring member which couples the floating body and the fixing member, wherein the mooring member is coupled to the floating body at place upward of the center of gravity of the floating body and the wind power generation equipment, and the floating body is practically supported by one fixing member.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2015Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Mitsuru Saeki, Takashi Shiraishi, Junichi Sugino
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Patent number: 10253748Abstract: A water wave-type power generating device is mounted on a shore, and includes a hub, a power generating unit, a transmitting track unit surrounding and movable relative to the hub along an endless course to generate a rotational force, a rotation transmitting unit coupled with the transmitting track unit and receiving the rotational force to generate the torque that is transmitted to the power generating unit by a torque transmitting unit, and a plurality of wave heading members disposed on the transmitting track unit and each having a heading surface that is subjected to waves of water in a wave ascending direction so as to actuate the movement of the transmitting track unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2016Date of Patent: April 9, 2019Inventor: Kuo-Chang Huang
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Patent number: 10094356Abstract: A wave barrier or wave terminator type ocean wave energy converter (WEC) utilizing one or multiple adjacent floats together forming an elongated wave front parallel (EWFP) float rotatably connected by at least one swing or drive arm to a secondary floating or shore or seabed fixed body or frame, such that the at least one swing arm is rotating about a submerged pivot point or axle on such body or frame and constraining the motion of the float(s) relative to the body or frame when wave forces are applied against the float(s). Relative to the direction of oncoming wave fronts and relative to the still water line (SWL), the at least one EWFP float is substantially forward of, and above, the pivot point such that the float concurrently moves both upward and rearward on wave crests and returns both forward and downward on ensuing wave troughs.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2016Date of Patent: October 9, 2018Assignee: Rohrer Technologies, Inc.Inventor: John W. Rohrer
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Patent number: 9297351Abstract: A wave energy conversion system uses a pair of wave energy converters (WECs) on respective active mountings on a floating platform, so that the separation of the WECs from each other or from a central WEC can be actively adjusted according to the wavelength of incident waves. The adjustable separation facilitates operation of the system to cancel reactive forces, which may be generated during wave energy conversion. Modules on which such pairs of WECs are mounted can be assembled with one or more central WECs to form large clusters in which reactive forces and torques can be made to cancel. WECs of different sizes can be employed to facilitate cancelation of reactive forces and torques.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2012Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Assignee: Atargis Energy CorporationInventor: Stefan G. Siegel
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Patent number: 9200613Abstract: Semi-submerged device for the use of the energy of the waves, comprising at least one moving assembly formed by a buoy (1) attached to a rod (2), that moves through a cylinder (4) equipped with a one-way bottom valve (6), and said moving assembly is located inside the space delimited by a fixed supporting structure comprising at least three interconnected hollow vertical tubes (14), one of them equipped with a valve (7) and another with a valve (16), and each with an air chamber (15). One of said tubes (14) is connected to the cylinder (4) through the valve (7), It also comprises a top platform (18) located on the tubes (14) on the surface of the water.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2012Date of Patent: December 1, 2015Inventor: Jose Luis Peraza Cano
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Patent number: 9181922Abstract: A mechanism for capturing wave energy includes a structure and a set of vertical buoys with support portions for supporting the structure. The structure is rectangular and includes rails that are oriented parallel to a direction of waves of water, and a movable tank holder carriage that runs along the rails perpendicularly to the direction of the waves. The movable tank holder carriage includes buoyancy tanks for floatation, with the buoyancy tanks having faces configured to maximize contact with the water. The buoyancy tanks are encased in a structural cage attached to the movable tank holder carriage. Wheels of the buoyancy tanks run along the structural cage to keep a position of the buoyancy tanks fixed relative to a level of the water, allowing the buoyancy tanks to rise and fall with movement of the waves.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2011Date of Patent: November 10, 2015Inventor: Ivan Dib Echeverria
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Patent number: 9017042Abstract: A multi-stage pump system for use in desalination systems including a first stage S1 providing low pressure for priming the system a second stage S2 that is in fluid communication with the first stage and is primed by the low pressure from the first stage. The second stage S2B includes at least one reciprocating piston 122, in an enclosing cylinder 121, 121A and is attached to the two second flexible inflatable bladders 123. The piston 122 will move up and down within the cylinder 121 121A relative to the movement of the two second stage flexible bladders 123 due to priming by the first stage affecting their buoyancy. The driving fluid then passes into a passage 130 and is expelled to an outlet and Stage three (S3) at higher pressure when the first reciprocating member 122 proceeds through a complete stroke.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2011Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Inventor: Rob Frazer
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Publication number: 20140369864Abstract: Semi-submerged device for the use of the energy of the waves, comprising at least one moving assembly formed by a buoy (1) attached to a rod (2), that moves through a cylinder (4) equipped with a one-way bottom valve (6), and said moving assembly is located inside the space delimited by a fixed supporting structure comprising at least three interconnected hollow vertical tubes (14), one of them equipped with a valve (7) and another with a valve (16), and each with an air chamber (15). One of said tubes (14) is connected to the cylinder (4) through the valve (7), It also comprises a top platform (18) located on the tubes (14) on the surface of the water.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 11, 2012Publication date: December 18, 2014Inventor: Jose Luis Peraza Cano
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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
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Publication number: 20130209287Abstract: An air compressor including: a motor; a compression mechanism that is configured to be driven by the motor; a tank unit that includes an air tank configured to store therein compressed air generated by the compression mechanism and to which the motor is fixed; an elastic member via which the compression mechanism is coupled to the tank unit; and a rotation transfer member that is configured to transfer a rotational force of the motor to the compression mechanism even when a shaft center of a rotary shaft of the motor and a shaft center of a rotary shaft of the compression mechanism deviate from each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2013Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: HITACHI KOKI CO., LTD.Inventor: HITACHI KOKI CO., LTD.
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Patent number: 8348636Abstract: A wave energy converter for compressing air from the movement of waves of a body of water is provided. The wave energy converter includes a middle cylinder upon which an upper cylinder slides thereon and in which a lower cylinder slides therewithin. An upper and lower compression chamber disposed within the upper and lower cylinders allows air to be drawn therewithin and compressed when the upper and lower cylinders are moved relative to the middle cylinder as waves progress through their wavelength from crest to trough and vice versa.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2009Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Inventor: Terry L. Spidell
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Patent number: 8093743Abstract: A plant for producing electrical power from the movement of waves. An offshore dam has a fixed generally vertical surface which is located in open water having wave movement and located vertically at the water surface. A submerged part which is fixed relative to the dam has an opening below the waves and in close proximity to the plane of the vertical surface to receive sea water. A force exerting structure such as a hydraulic pump or a thrust arrangement receives the water through the opening and forces that water through a one-way valve beyond which it is led to a turbine for producing electric power.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Inventor: Enrico Bozano
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Patent number: 8007252Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for an improved float type wave powered pump that uses the continuous rising and falling wave action in a body of water to pump a fluid. The pump includes piston and cylinder assemblies that are configured for relative reciprocal movement therebetween. One of the assemblies is anchored to the floor of the body of water and the other is vertically moveable in response to a drive float riding on a wave. The pump selectively includes a tide compensating device to reduce the ratio of vertical travel of the drive float to vertical travel of the moveable assembly. The pump also selectively includes a fluid inlet check valve incorporating a support plate of the piston assembly with openings therein and a cover for the same. The pump further selectively includes a directional pressure-activated seal at the point of sliding connection between the piston rod and the cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2007Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Inventor: Tom J. Windle
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Patent number: 7980832Abstract: A stationary structure is mounted on the floor of an ocean or other body of water subject to wave motion. The structure provides a floatation body that moves with the waves and is able to drive a sealing plate in a compression chamber. When the water level changes, or wave action magnitude changes, a second sealing plate is able to move automatically to maintain a constant size of the compression chamber. Air compressed in the chamber is let into a tank to maintain a constant elevated pressure in the tank and the air pressure is used to power a turbine to generate electricity. In an alternate embodiment, a mechanical linkage drives the turbine directly.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2007Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventor: Ned M. Ahdoot
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Patent number: 7969033Abstract: A device for the generation of energy and in particular electrical energy includes a cell or chamber which moves upwardly and downwardly in a body of water. Cog wheels are connected to the cell. The cog wheels are connected to the shafts of generators. Rotation of the cog wheels operates the generators which produce energy. The cog wheels engage anchor chains or vertical supports. One end of each anchor chain is secured to an anchor located at the bottom of the body of water. The other end of the anchor chain is secured to a float which floats at or near the surface of the body of water. The up and down movement of the cell causes the cog wheels to move upwardly and downwardly along the anchor chains and thereby rotate. This rotation drives the energy generator and generates energy, preferably electricity. The cog wheels are permitted to rotate upon the receipt of a request for energy. This results in a highly efficient source of energy or electricity.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2009Date of Patent: June 28, 2011Inventor: James Ryan
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Patent number: 7952218Abstract: A system for generating electricity includes a pump operable to convert wave motion from a body of water into mechanical energy. The pump includes an input port through which an operating fluid can enter the pump and an output port through which the operating fluid can exit the pump. A first outlet line and a second outlet line are fluidly coupled to the output port of the pump. A first reservoir is fluidly connected to the first outlet line, and a second reservoir is fluidly connected to the second outlet line, both reservoirs being selectively capable of receiving operating fluid driven through the output port.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2010Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignee: Independent Natural Resources, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth W. Welch, Jr., Curtis J. Rothi, Harold L. Rothi
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Publication number: 20110097220Abstract: A pumping apparatus designed for the purpose of economically harvesting the energy of the waves on the surface of a body of water and converting such energy into hydraulic power which may be transmitted by pipes and used for any purpose but preferably for the generation of electricity or the production of desalinated water. To better explain the means of operation of this invention, referring to FIG. 1 will start by assuming that the float (14) is static, the accumulator (30) is pressurized above the ambient pressure of the environment of pump, the accumulator(30) is charged with fluid and the pump is full of fluid. In this condition check valve (10) is closed and pumping chamber (19) is pressurized by the accumulator (30). Pumping chamber (18) is also equally pressurized via the piston (2). An axial force is generated on rod or tube (3) by the pressure difference between its ends. A similar, but opposite, axial force is generated on rod or tube (4) by the pressure difference between its ends.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2009Publication date: April 28, 2011Inventor: Robert Tillotson
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Patent number: 7737572Abstract: A system for generating electricity includes a pump operable to convert wave motion from a body of water into mechanical energy. The pump includes an input port through which an operating fluid can enter the pump and an output port through which the operating fluid can exit the pump. A first outlet line and a second outlet line are fluidly coupled to the output port of the pump. A first reservoir is fluidly connected to the first outlet line, and a second reservoir is fluidly connected to the second outlet line, both reservoirs being selectively capable of receiving operating fluid driven through the output port.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2008Date of Patent: June 15, 2010Assignee: Independent Natural Resources, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth W. Welch, Jr., Curtis J. Rothi, Harold L. Rothi
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Patent number: 7713032Abstract: The high pressure fluid pump includes a driver defined by a float riding on the waves of a sea surface, a fluid pump housing, an impeller operatively attached to the driver and disposed within the fluid pump housing, a backflow check system connected to the fluid pump housing, and an outflow check system controlling the pressure, volume of fluid flow, and direction of fluid flow to various other systems. The pump may be used to pump fluids other than seawater and may include features multiplying pumping mechanical advantage for a given tidal range.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2009Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Inventor: Albert Hamilton Davis, Sr.
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Publication number: 20090196769Abstract: The high pressure fluid pump includes a driver defined by a float riding on the waves of a sea surface, a fluid pump housing, an impeller operatively attached to the driver and disposed within the fluid pump housing, a backflow check system connected to the fluid pump housing, and an outflow check system controlling the pressure, volume of fluid flow, and direction of fluid flow to various other systems. The pump may be used to pump fluids other than seawater and may include features multiplying pumping mechanical advantage for a given tidal range.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 6, 2009Publication date: August 6, 2009Inventor: Albert Hamilton Davis, SR.
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Publication number: 20090081055Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for an improved float type wave powered pump that uses the continuous rising and falling wave action in a body of water to pump a fluid. The pump includes piston and cylinder assemblies that are configured for relative reciprocal movement therebetween. One of the assemblies is anchored to the floor of the body of water and the other is vertically moveable in response to a drive float riding on a wave. The pump selectively includes a tide compensating device to reduce the ratio of vertical travel of the drive float to vertical travel of the moveable assembly. The pump also selectively includes a fluid inlet check valve incorporating a support plate of the piston assembly with openings therein and a cover for the same. The pump further selectively includes a directional pressure-activated seal at the point of sliding connection between the piston rod and the cylinder.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2007Publication date: March 26, 2009Inventor: Tommy J. Windle
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Publication number: 20090008941Abstract: A modular system for the electric energy production, exploiting the hydromechanical energy extractable from wave motion thanks to the implementation of means for pumping based on a stem-piston-cylinder system and driven by the wave motion acting on floating members. Under wave motion, air is compressed by a piston (7b) and discharged into a chamber (20) of tank (70). Water is compressed by another piston (7a) and discharged into a chamber (30) of the same tank (70). A valve (40) regulates discharge to a hydraulic turbine (50). The tank (70) with movable wall (18) and chambers (20, 30) ensures proper pressurizing of the water and constant delivery to the turbine (50).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2005Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Maria G. Irti
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Publication number: 20080260548Abstract: A stationary structure is mounted on the floor of an ocean or other body of water subject to wave motion. The structure provides a floatation body that moves with the waves and is able to drive a sealing plate in a compression chamber. When the water level changes, or wave action magnitude changes, a second sealing plate is able to move automatically to maintain a constant size of the compression chamber. Air compressed in the chamber is let into a tank to maintain a constant elevated pressure in the tank and the air pressure is used to power a turbine to generate electricity. In an alternate embodiment, a mechanical linkage drives the turbine directly.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2007Publication date: October 23, 2008Inventor: Ned M. Ahdoot
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Patent number: 7419366Abstract: An apparatus for storage of potential energy using water from a deep body of water is described. The apparatus comprises one module including a cylinder, a piston slidably connected to the cylinder, a column for storing the water from the deep body of water received through an inlet being in communication with the cylinder/piston, and a connecting tube which mutually connects the cylinder and the column. The apparatus further comprises driving means for reciprocally displacing the piston in relation to the cylinder, wherein the driving means is a crankshaft drivingly connected to the piston and at least one flywheel mounted to the crankshaft for counteracting the pressure as result of the water stored in the column.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventors: Z K Doleh, R. Z. Doleh, John Douglas Lock
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Publication number: 20080206077Abstract: A wave pump device (1) comprising a pump part (2) connected to a pontoon (4, 50), wherein the pump part (2) is further connected to at least one submerged water anchor (12).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2006Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventor: Dagfinn Royset
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Patent number: 7258532Abstract: A buoyancy pump device for use in fluid. The buoyancy pump device includes a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid may flow. A buoyancy block is disposed within the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second direction responsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber. A piston cylinder is connected to the buoyancy block housing and has at least one valve disposed therein operating as an inlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2005Date of Patent: August 21, 2007Assignee: Indepedent Natural Resources, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth W. Welch, Jr., Curtis J. Rothi, Harold L. Rothi
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Patent number: 6953328Abstract: A buoyancy pump device for use in fluid. The buoyancy pump device includes a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid may flow. A buoyancy block is disposed within the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second direction responsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber. A piston cylinder is connected to the buoyancy block housing and has at least one valve disposed therein operating as an inlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2002Date of Patent: October 11, 2005Assignee: Independent Natural Resources, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth W. Welch, Jr., Curtis J. Rothi, Harold L. Rothi
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Publication number: 20040071566Abstract: A pumping mechanism that utilizes wave and tidal energy to operate. The mechanism relies on the depth of the fluid or ocean and the length of the pump cylinder to accommodate shifting wave and tide patterns. Alternatively, the mechanism is imbedded or placed in an excavation in the fluid or ocean bed of sufficient depth and width to accommodate the piston cylinder, its' casing and the shifting wave and tide conditions. The invention relies on a buoy or float for the lift of a weighted piston and the weighted piston, when descending, provides the means of creating pressure on the water entrapped in the cylinder, thus causing a pumping action. The pump may be used individually or in concert with other pumps. The pump is intended to move large or small volumes of water at high or low pressures, singularly or in concert with other pumps.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 23, 2003Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventor: Richard Newton Hill
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Publication number: 20040071565Abstract: A buoyancy pump device for use in fluid. The buoyancy pump device includes a buoyancy block housing defining a buoyancy chamber therein through which the fluid may flow. A buoyancy block is disposed within the buoyancy chamber to move axially therein in a first direction responsive to rising of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber and a second direction responsive to lowering of the fluid in the buoyancy chamber. A piston cylinder is connected to the buoyancy block housing and has at least one valve disposed therein operating as an inlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the second direction and an outlet in response to movement of the buoyancy block in the first direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2002Publication date: April 15, 2004Inventors: Kenneth W. Welch, Curtis J. Rothi, Harold L. Rothi
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Patent number: 6363718Abstract: The natural power of the present invention includes a wind energy, sea wave energy, and solar energy. These energies are used in high energy for achieving an economic value. The current conversion devices, for example, water power generation, wind power generation, and solar power generation, coverts power in high energy. If the energy is low, they can not work well. In fact, in natural power, low power or middle power energies are occupied a large part. The present invention serves to disclose a system for solving such a problem. In the present invention, low power energy is firstly accumulated to a high power energy for being used (such as hydraulic power). The system in the present invention can be wholly used in natural power in the low cost without any pollution. Thus, the present invention is suitable for the requirement of environment protection and economics. The area arranged according to the feature of the present invention can be programmed as an appreciating area.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1999Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Chau-Fu Shu
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Patent number: 6328539Abstract: A hydraulic device powered by a wave includes one or more posts secured on a sea floor, a float buoyant on the wave, a housing secured to the posts and having a slidable piston for separating the interior of the housing into two chambers. Four pipes are coupled to the chambers of the housing with four check valves, for allowing the fluid to be drawn into the chambers from two of the pipes and to be forced out of the chambers into the other pipes step by step in order to generate a hydraulic power or energy and for powering or actuating the other facilities.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2000Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Inventor: Sheng Hu Hung
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Patent number: 6132180Abstract: An automatic pumping apparatus utilizing wave motion comprises one or more than one sink-and-float members provided so as to move up and down in accordance with a wave motion, positioned below the respective sink-and-float members, connected to the respective sink-and-float members via a transmission mechanism and adapted to slidingly move in respective one-end-open fixed cylinders in accordance with the up and down movement of the sink-and-float members, the horizontal cross sectional area of each piston being made small relative to that of each sink-and-float member and inversely proportional to the pumping height, whereby water can be pumped to a reservoir tank through pumping pipes extending from the other ends of the cylinders to positions higher than the ranges of up and down movements of the sinkand-float members by the operations of pistons.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1997Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Inventor: Masayuki Kojima
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Patent number: 5909060Abstract: An installation for extracting energy from a liquid in which swell occurs relative to a bottom. The installation includes a first and second container for placing at a determined horizontal first mutual distance at least partially under the surface of the liquid, each provided with a closed upper side directed toward the liquid surface, closed side walls and an open underside directed toward the bottom for enclosing a gas under the liquid surface. The gas is bounded to the underside of the container by a quantity of liquid entering via this underside, which quantity of liquid varies as a result of the swell. A transport conduit is provided for transporting gas from the first to the second container and vice versa. A generator responding to the variation in the quantity of liquid in at least one of the containers for generating energy from this variation is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1996Date of Patent: June 1, 1999Assignee: Teamwork Techniek B.V. I.O.Inventor: Fred Ernest Gardner
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Patent number: 5411377Abstract: A mass displacement wave energy conversion system comprising a platform mounted on a stable base to protect the system against the interference of wave motion. Beneath the platform are mounted a plurality of pumps operated by a buoyancy vessel and a ballast mass. The buoyancy vessel and ballast mass are attached to a sleeve pump on a shaft supported in the ocean floor by an anchored footing with the other end being secured to the system platform. The pumps are connected to a manifold so they accumulate a constant volume and pressure even though each pump operates separately. The ballast mass buoyancy vessel and pump are constructed to slide on the mounting shafts to produce water at a constant pressure and volume at the manifolds that can be interconnected to drive a variety of devices.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1993Date of Patent: May 2, 1995Inventors: Michael P. Houser, Dwight F. Houser
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Patent number: 5374850Abstract: An apparatus for producing useful energy from the potential energy stored in a deep body of water using tidal and/or wave forces. A hollow base supported above the sea bottom slidably receives a piston therein. A first cylinder is rigidly attached at its lower end to the piston and at its upper end to a floating structure so that the floating structure and piston move vertically in response to wave and/or tidal action and which can be fixed at any position therealong by locking pins. The base is provided with one-way valves on its upper and lower end that only allow water to exit the base through the valves. Water enters the base through a one-way valve in the first cylinder and a tube in the first cylinder. A turbine positioned in the tube is driven by the water as it travels through the tube. The turbine drives a power generator.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1993Date of Patent: December 20, 1994Inventor: Hal C. Cowen
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Patent number: 5359229Abstract: Apparatus for producing electrical energy from the rise and fall of waves on a body of water. A vertical column is anchored to the floor of the body of water. A buoyant, spherical float is telescopically mounted to the vertical column in a manner that allows it to rise and fall with the waves, guided by the vertical column. A drive shaft is mounted to the vertical column and above the float. A downstroke drive transfer mechanism is mounted to the drive shaft. A first cable is attached to the float and to the downstroke drive transfer mechanism. A second cable is attached to a counter-weight and to the downstroke drive transfer mechanism. As the float falls as a wave trough passes, the downward motion of the float is transferred to the downstroke drive transfer mechanism through the first cable, causing the drive shaft to rotate. The drive shaft does not rotate as the float rises. The drive shaft is connected to an electrical energy generating system.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 1994Date of Patent: October 25, 1994Inventor: George M. Youngblood
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Patent number: 5132550Abstract: The prime-mover comprises a central inertial barge 1, a first outer wave-engaging pontoon 2 pivotally movable relative to the central barge 1 about the pivotal axis defined by the arrow A, and a second outer wave-engaging pontoon 3 pivotally movable relative to the central barge 1 about the axis defined by the arrow B. Two series of pumps 4 are mounted on the central barge 1 and driven by the pivotal movement of the outer wave-engaging pontoons 2, 3 respectively. A damping mechanism comprising two shafts 6a, 6b extend downwardly from the bage 1. The shafts 6a, 6b are provided with damping plates 7a, 7b at the bottom ends thereof. The damping plates 7a, 7b may be moved relative to the shafts 6a, 6b by being screwed up or down the shafts as required.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1991Date of Patent: July 21, 1992Assignee: Hydam LimitedInventor: Richard P. McCabe
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Patent number: 5027000Abstract: A wave power generating system for generating electricity using natural wave power, includes wave energy converters for converting wave energy into air pressure, a constant air pressure tank for storing the air pressure from the wave energy converters to equalize the fluctuation of the air pressure, an air turbine stationarily driven by the equalized air pressure, and an electric generator for generating stable electricity using the rotating power of the air turbine. The wave energy converters are settled to the bottom of the sea and are sufficiently tall to function as wave dissipation facilities. The air pressure in the constant air pressure tank is automatically controlled toward a target value by a controller and the target value is calculated by the controller in accordance with measured values of wave amplitude and period and the current air pressure of the constant air pressure tank.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 1989Date of Patent: June 25, 1991Assignee: Takenaka CorporationInventors: Hidenori Chino, Takashi Hara, Kenji Tamura, Yasuhide Nakakuki, Yasuyuki Nii, Zenya Soma, Kiyoshi Nishihara
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Patent number: 4954052Abstract: A land and water transportable apparatus positionable in a body of water for extracting energy from wave action in the body of water, is disclosed, comprising a wheel-shaped float positionable on the surface of the body of water operable by wave action, a wheel-shaped anchor for positioning on the bottom of the body of water for anchoring the float, a spacer disposed between the float and the anchor for securing the float to the anchor when the apparatus is transported to a deployment site, a spacer for securing the float to the anchor when the float is separated from the anchor, and an accumulator associated with the float for converting wave action energy to useful work.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1989Date of Patent: September 4, 1990Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventor: Walter J. Simmons
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Patent number: 4776772Abstract: An apparatus converts the naturally occurring energy potential found in waves into a pressurized water source. The apparatus, which can be positioned in a breakwater, is comprised of a float to track the crest and trough of waves, a pump, and mechanics to drive the pump in response to the vertical movement of the float.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1987Date of Patent: October 11, 1988Inventor: Thomas D. Everett
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Patent number: 4683719Abstract: A man-made floating island includes platform units above the water with vertical members extending downwardly therefrom on which movable floats are mounted which move in response to wave action. Motion of the floats operates air compressors and the resulting compressed air is either converted to transmissible energy or stored in reservoirs for future use. Wave amplifiers may be disposed beneath the movable floats.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1985Date of Patent: August 4, 1987Inventor: Bonifac Martinak
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Patent number: 4622812Abstract: An apparatus for deriving energy from the rise and fall of a body of fluid consisting of a float adapted to move substantially in a vertical plane in response to the rise and fall of the body of liquid. A cylinder having a piston therewithin adapted for vertical movement relative to the cylinder in response to rise and fall of the float with the body of water, in a manner to apply force to fluid in a chamber of the cylinder, the force being applied alternately to opposed chambers of the cylinder, means for converting force applied to the fluid to energy, and means responsive to energy demand for storing energy converted from force applied to the fluid and for converting stored energy to force applied to the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1985Date of Patent: November 18, 1986Inventors: Randall Thompson, Jr., Ernesto Blanco
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Patent number: 4603551Abstract: A relatively lightweight `motivator buoy` (15), constrained by guides (93) attached to a ballasted "floating platform" (1) of contrasting and static buoyancy characteristics, reciprocates vertically by wave action, lifting water via a piston (20) and cylinder (4) through automatic non-return valves (21,22) into a pressurized storage compartment (23) incorporating a compressible medium such as an airspace, then turning a water turbine (10) and electricity generator (11), or alternatively providing a hydraulic power source for other uses. Modules so constructed may be linked by an above-water framework to form continuous arrays.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 1984Date of Patent: August 5, 1986Inventor: Peter Wood
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Patent number: 4586333Abstract: A water engine comprises a float arranged for reciprocal movement in a chamber under the action of a head of water. The chamber is filled with water from an upper level by means of a valve and is emptied to a lower level by means of a further valve. A cross-head is mounted atop the float and two pairs of hydraulic rams are pivotably connected to the crosshead. The pairs of rams are also pivotably connected to pairs of sliders which are adjustably mounted on stanchions. When the float is caused to rise, hydraulic fluid in the upper pair of rams is pressurized because of the shortening of the rams, while hydraulic fluid is drawn into the lower pair of rams by extension thereof. When the float is caused to fall, the opposite is true. Each pair of rams pivots as the float moves, the arrangement being such that for whichever pair of rams is on its working stroke there is progressively less shortening of that pair of rams per unit travel of the float.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1984Date of Patent: May 6, 1986Assignee: Aur Hydropower LimitedInventor: Alister U. Reid
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Patent number: 4546264Abstract: A rotating cellular energy generating device for generating electrical power for extended periods of time. The generating device characterized by having an annular rotating housing having a plurality of individual compartments therein. The compartments receiving material which is compartmentalized to accurately control the mass distribution in the rotating housing for maintaining speed as power is withdrawn or generated during the rotation of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1983Date of Patent: October 8, 1985Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: George T. Pinson
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Patent number: 4539485Abstract: A wave activated generator utilizes the principle of providing relative movement between a permanent magnet and a coil to induce an electrical current in the coil. The coil is situated in a static tube anchored to the sea bed by means of a ballast tank at the base of the tube and guy wires extending from the tube. A plunger with permanent magnets is mounted in the tube for vertical reciprocation of the plunger, the plunger projecting outwardly from the upper end of the tube and terminating in a hull-shaped float which rides the water surface and provides vertical reciprocation of the plunger responsive to wave motion in order to move the magnets relative to the coil and generate current in the coil.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1983Date of Patent: September 3, 1985Inventor: Victor L. Neuenschwander
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Patent number: 4434375Abstract: A power generation system for converting the motion of waves on a body of water such as a lake or sea to drive pumps, electrical generators or the like. A weighted float rides on the waves. A cable and pulley arrangement changes the direction, travel and force of the wave energy action imparted on the float and drives a hydraulic circuit. The hydraulic circuit includes an accumulator for temporary energy storage and release to assist in maintaining constant flow and pressure of hydraulic fluid to one or more hydraulic motors during each wave cycle. The hydraulic motor drives a load such as an electric generator. An automatically actuated device adjusts for high and low tides.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1982Date of Patent: February 28, 1984Inventor: Robert N. Taylor