Having Fluid Flow Or Wave Controlling, Confining Or Directing Means Patents (Class 60/502)
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Patent number: 11473552Abstract: A wave power generation system includes: a hydraulic pump device configured to operate by force of a wave to discharge an operating liquid to a main passage; a hydraulic motor device configured to be rotated by the operating liquid flowing through the main passage; a power generator configured to be driven by the hydraulic motor to generate electric power; and a heat exchanger device configured to perform heat exchange of the operating liquid. The heat exchanger device includes a heat exchange motor device connected to the main passage through a sub passage and configured to be operated by the operating liquid introduced through the sub passage, a refrigerant pump device driven by the heat exchange motor device and configured to suck and discharge a refrigerant liquid, and a heat exchanger to which the refrigerant liquid discharged from the heat exchange pump device and the operating liquid are introduced.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2019Date of Patent: October 18, 2022Assignees: THE UNIVERSITY OF TOKYO, KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Koki Maruyama, Chang-Kyu Rheem, Hidetaka Kobayashi, Naoki Kuribayashi, Hideki Tanaka, Masahide Tsuji
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Patent number: 10774819Abstract: A system for cyclically lifting a large volume of water includes a piston plate having first and second sides. The water to be lifted exerts a water pressure on the second side of the piston plate, while compressed air held in a pressurized tank exerts an air pressure on the first side of the piston plate. The resultant pressure differential ?p is such that the piston plate is biased to move in a particular direction. A force actuator is provided that periodically exerts a force F on the piston plate to overcome the bias of ?p and thereby lift the volume of water.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2018Date of Patent: September 15, 2020Assignee: Dualcore Energy, Inc.Inventor: Ernest William Townsend, IV
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Patent number: 9222457Abstract: According to embodiment of the disclosure, a wave energy harvesting system comprises a water wave band gap structure (WWBGS) and one or more energy conversion devices. The water wave band gap structure (WWBGS) comprises an array of posts with one or more missing posts that define a defect cavity. The one or more defect cavities are configured to concentrate energy of water waves. The one or more energy conversion devices are positioned in or adjacent to one of the one or more defect cavities and are configured to convert the energy from the water waves into another form of energy.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2013Date of Patent: December 29, 2015Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventors: Delmar L. Barker, Darrick M. Buban, Michael J. Broyles
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Patent number: 8966899Abstract: A system includes at least one body, a link for suspending the body for movement with gravity from a first elevation position to a second elevation position, and an electrical energy generator coupled with the body through the link to drive the generator to generate electricity upon movement of the body with gravity from the first to the second elevation position. The at least one body has a mass of at least approximately 100 tonnes; the first and the second elevation positions define a distance therebetween of at least approximately 200 meters; and/or the system further includes an operator configured to operate the link to controllably move the at least one body against gravity from the second to the first elevation position to increase a gravitational potential energy of the at least one body, and to maintain the gravitational potential energy of the at least one body.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2012Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Launchpoint Technologies, Inc.Inventor: O. James Fiske
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Publication number: 20150033731Abstract: Provided is a buoyancy engine that generates power by using buoyancy acting on an object inside a liquid such as water. When a part of moving bodies 5 located in a liquid accumulated in an ascending passage P1 ascend by buoyancy, the plurality of moving bodies 5 arranged in series in a circle in a circulation passage move in a circulating manner while being pushed by the moving bodies 5. Since a sealing portion 40 provided at the lower side of the ascending passage P1 seals a gap between the moving body 5 and the inner wall of the circulation passage, the liquid accumulated in the ascending passage P1 does not instantly leak to a lower passage P8. Accordingly, the liquid is continuously accumulated in the ascending passage P1 to a certain degree, and the moving bodies 5 continuously move in a circulating manner in the circulation passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2014Publication date: February 5, 2015Applicants: Hiruta CorporationInventors: Kunji KUROSAWA, Young Song KIM
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Patent number: 8925313Abstract: A device that converts wave energy to electrical or chemical energy includes a buoy adapted to float on a water surface, a venturi tube, and a rigid or flexible means of connecting the buoy and the venturi tube. The venturi tube defines a lumen through which water flows downwardly when the buoy moves upwardly and upwardly when the buoy moves downwardly. A constriction is formed in the lumen to create a venturi effect for water flowing upwardly and downwardly through the lumen. A turbine is positioned in the lumen at the constriction where water flow is at a maximum rate. The turbine is connected to a generator so that the venturi effect is harnessed to generate power. Multiple embodiments are included.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2009Date of Patent: January 6, 2015Inventor: Brian Lee Moffat
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Patent number: 8904778Abstract: A wave energy converter (WEC) having an asymmetrically shaped float and a spar which move relative to each other in response to the waves. The asymmetrical float has one side longer than the other. A power take off device (PTO) is coupled between the asymmetric float and the spar for converting their relative motion into useful power. Apparatus is coupled to the WEC for: (a) orienting and rotating the longer side of the float to face and receive oncoming waves to increase energy capture when the waves have an amplitude below a predetermined value for improving the power generation of the WEC; and (b) rotating the float to orient the narrower side of the float to face and receive the incoming waves when the waves have an amplitude above a predetermined value, so as to reduce the forces to which the WEC is subjected. There is no known WEC system with an asymmetrical float which is raised and lowered by the waves.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2011Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Ocean Power Technologies, IncInventors: James S. Gerber, George W. Taylor
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Patent number: 8893492Abstract: An underwater wave energy converter (WEC) (10) has a piston (32) that reciprocates up and down as recurring waves (22) pass over. Downward motion of the piston (32) drives the rods or plungers (50b) of a multiplicity of hydraulic jacks (50) to pressurize hydraulic fluid in an energy conversion system. Ultimately, the energy conversion system powers one or more hydraulic motors (511, 512) that drive an electric generator (510) or multiple generators. A sensor system (25) detects characteristics of in-coming waves such as by detecting changes in pressure as in-coming waves (22) pass over the sensor system (25). The sensors can be mounted on the ocean floor seaward from the WECs (10), and a control computer system (231) calculates characteristics of the in-coming waves such as wave height and speed data, and uses the data to control aspects of the WECs (10) and other components of the energy conversion system.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2010Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Inventor: Frank Louis Stromotich
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Publication number: 20140230427Abstract: By optimizing the degree to which water is accelerated through a venturi device, the amount of power that an energy device extracts from the ocean is maximized. Prior venturi-based wave energy devices have proven to be inefficient because of the relatively small amount of power that they generate relative to their size and cost. By optimizing the venturi effect created within the submerged venturi components of such devices, the speed of the water moving through the narrowest portions of such a devices is maximized with respect to the wave environments in which they operate, and a maximal amount of energy is extracted from the ocean. This optimization of a wave energy device's power is sufficient to render such devices cost effective. The method of extracting energy from the accelerated flow of water moving through such venturi devices is not limited, and many alternatives exist, each with its own potential benefits.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2014Publication date: August 21, 2014Inventor: BRIAN L. MOFFAT
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Publication number: 20140157767Abstract: A free floating wave energy converter includes a flexible pine and an inlet. The flexible pipe floats on water surface, following the wave form. Slugs of water and air enter, one after the other, through the inlet. Because the flexible pipe follows the shape of the wave, water is transported through a manifold to a pressure chamber connected to a generator. The inlet consists of hollow, inflexible pipe attached to the throat of the flexible pipe. The inflexible pipe is fixedly attached to a buoyancy tank or plurality thereof. The buoyancy tanks are arranged in a vertical plane or in tandem, with the inflexible pipe passing along the plane vertical to the fore and aft axis of the buoyancy tank and the frontward portion projecting sufficiently ahead of the buoyancy tank with the flexible pipe terminating at a singular outlet.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 20, 2012Publication date: June 12, 2014Inventor: Syed Mohammed Ghouse
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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
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Publication number: 20140075932Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2013Publication date: March 20, 2014Inventor: Yun-Chang Yu
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Publication number: 20130333372Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: August 10, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Inventor: Paul M. Swamidass
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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
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Patent number: 8464527Abstract: A float structure for a WEC is designed to have a tapered underside to reduce the impact due to wave slam and bending moments while providing little reduction in the surface area responding to the wave surface in order to maintain the beneficial power generating capability of a “flat” float. The underside of the float presents an inverted wedge section to decrease loads associated with wave slamming. The float may have a generally toroidal or elliptical configuration at and about the “still” water line with the generally submerged underside of the float having a cross section shaped to have one or more inverted triangular sections extending between the outer perimeter of the float and its center to reduce impact loading due to wave slamming while maintaining power producing capability.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2009Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Ocean Power Technologies, Inc.Inventors: James S. Gerber, Christopher Thomas Phelan, Wei Qiu, Donald Smith Spencer
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Patent number: 8459020Abstract: Highway bridge supporting structures that stand in large bodies of water are usefully employed in a novel manner in this invention to inexpensively extract energy from the water under the bridge using new and established apparatus. Alternate energy producing systems from water waves, currents and tides suffer from cost disadvantages incurred in designing and erecting expensive structures that hold them firmly on the ground under the water against fierce wind and water forces. This invention ingeniously uses existing or new bridge structures for mounting water-borne-energy to electricity conversion systems at much reduced cost. The invention will make water energy conversion systems more affordable and will turn existing and new bridge supporting structures into dual-use systems that can not only support bridge decks above but also produce useful renewable energy from the water below; today, bridge structures are not used in this manner.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2012Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Inventor: Paul M Swamidass
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Patent number: 8429910Abstract: A wave energy converter includes a flexible pipe and an inlet. The flexible pipe floats on the water surface, following the wave form. Slugs of water and air enter, one after the other, through the inlet. Because the flexible pipe follows the shape of the wave, water is transported through a manifold to a pressure chamber connected to a generator. The inlet consists of a hollow, inflexible pipe attached to the throat of the flexible pipe. The inflexible pipe is fixedly attached to a buoyancy tank or plurality thereof. The buoyancy tanks are arranged in a vertical plane or in tandem, with the inflexible pipe passing along the plane vertical to the fore and aft axis of the buoyancy tank and the frontward portion projecting sufficiently ahead of the buoyancy tank with the flexible pipe terminating at a singular outlet. The entire apparatus is facing towards the oncoming waves.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2010Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Inventor: Syed Mohammed Ghouse
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Patent number: 8341957Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, a portable wave-swash & coastal-wind energy harvester, placed on a sea coast in swash zone captures energy contained in coastal waves and in coastal-wind through the utilization of wave turbines, wind turbines, and wave floats. Wave-float levers carrying wave floats and wave turbines, swing and maintain lower halves of wave turbines below water always. A gear 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 when buoyancy chamber is emptied of water, and thereby enhances maneuverability of unit in water. Stabilization tanks at the top when filled with water provide extra weight and stability of the unit in its operating location. Units linked together in an energy farm combine their energy while forming a seawall-like barrier offering protection against coastal erosion.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2011Date of Patent: January 1, 2013Inventor: Erat S. Joseph
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Patent number: 8166760Abstract: A system includes at least one body, a link for suspending the body for movement with gravity from a first elevation position to a second elevation position, and an electrical energy generator coupled with the body through the link to drive the generator to generate electricity upon movement of the body with gravity from the first to the second elevation position. The at least one body has a mass of at least approximately 100 tonnes; the first and the second elevation positions define a distance therebetween of at least approximately 200 meters; and/or the system further includes an operator configured to operate the link to controllably move the at least one body against gravity from the second to the first elevation position to increase a gravitational potential energy of the at least one body, and to maintain the gravitational potential energy of the at least one body.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Launchpoint Technologies, Inc.Inventor: O. James Fiske
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Publication number: 20120006015Abstract: A method for generating power by converting the vertical movement of floats in one or more reservoirs is provided. Each reservoir has an inlet and an outlet. A float is disposed in each reservoir. A shaft is connected to each float. Controls are provided for actuating inlet and outlet gates to cause water to flow into and out of each reservoir via its corresponding inlet and outlet, respectively. As a result, the flowing water moves each float in a vertically oscillating manner to rotate the shaft at an output rate suitable to generate usable power.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2010Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventor: Jack Alexander McGillis
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Publication number: 20110254271Abstract: A tidal flow turbine system has a rotor and turbine blades attached at a fixed attitude with respect to the rotor and extending outwardly from the rotor. The stagger angle of the blades, tip speed ratio, or other blade parameters is such that over the in-service operational speed range of the turbine, over a lower range of rotational or tidal flow speeds, increased speed results in increased axial loading on the turbine, but at higher speed range above a predetermined threshold, axial loading on the turbine does not increase.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2009Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventors: Christopher Freeman, Christopher Williams
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Patent number: 8035243Abstract: A system to harness energy from water waves, comprising a frame assembly, first and second hydraulic systems, at least one float assembly, and an electrical assembly. The float assembly comprises front, rear, bottom, top, and first and second lateral faces. The float assembly further comprises a trailing face. The trailing face and the rear face merge to define an edge. The float assembly is mounted onto the mounting plate. The float assembly is placed in a body of water that comprises wave forces. The electrical system comprises a generator. The generator produces electricity when driven by the hydraulic motor when hydraulic fluid is displaced and pressurized within a hydraulic system when the wave forces cause the float assembly to move when in the body of water.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2009Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Matter Wave Technologies, LLC.Inventor: Manuel Constanzo Mesa
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Publication number: 20110187102Abstract: An ocean wave energy system is for generating power from ocean waves. The system comprises wall components defining one or more channels for guiding propagation of ocean waves therealong. Each channel has a first end for receiving the ocean waves and a second end remote from the first end. A float arrangement is disposed along each of the one or more channels between its first and second ends. Moreover, the float arrangement being arranged in size to progressively absorb energy from the ocean waves commencing with longest wavelength components in the waves and finishing with shortest wavelength components in the waves. The ocean wave energy system is capable of extracting energy efficiently and conveniently from ocean wave motion.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2008Publication date: August 4, 2011Applicant: Ocean Wave Rocker ASInventor: Thorbjorn Sirseth
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Publication number: 20110120109Abstract: A power generator is provided having one or more reservoirs. Each reservoir has an inlet and an outlet. A float is disposed in each reservoir. A shaft is connected to each float. Controls are provided for actuating each inlets and outlet to cause water to flow into and out of each reservoir via its corresponding inlet and outlet, respectively. As a result, the flowing water moves each float in a vertically oscillating manner to rotate the shaft at an output a rate suitable to generate usable power. Also provided are a method for generating electricity and an energy converter that converts vertical float movement into rotational energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2009Publication date: May 26, 2011Inventor: Jack Alexander McGillis
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Publication number: 20100263366Abstract: The present invention relates to the energy transformation industry, and more specifically to the device manufacturing industry for the transformation of natural alternative energies into more controllable and relatively easy to store energy. The advantages of the present equipment with respect of those of the prior art relies on that the present is of long useful life, which can extract from the waves energy that can be stored to be used at the time it is needed and with the capacity of being controlled in its application. Structurally the equipment of the present invention is characterized by comprising a float having an orifice in the center, in this orifice it is disposed firmly fastened a rigid pipe hydraulically connected at one of its ends to a hose, and at the other end to a check valve in the end immersed in the water bed; the opposite end of the hose which is hydraulically joined to the rigid pipe, the hose ends in a water tank on dry land and above the sea level average.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2007Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: Power Retailing Group S.A. de C.v.Inventor: Luis Felipe Rego Garcia De Alba
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Patent number: 7444811Abstract: Wave-power device, with a plurality of floating bodies (12) arranged in at least two parallel rows for vertical movement caused by wave movements. Each floating body is connected to a generator (22) for the generating of electrical energy during the vertical movement. The floating bodies are jointed to a raft (11) which can be relocated on the water and can be moored at an arbitrary place of use. The floating bodies (12) are connected to vertical supporting bars (14), which are held between an upper lattice-like structure (15, 16) and a lower lattice-like structure (17, 18), and each of the vertical supporting bars (14) is connected to an electric generator (22).Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Inventors: Asbjorn Skotte, Tov Westby
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Patent number: 7402028Abstract: A pressurization device is described mobilizing gravity to mobilize seawater and to employ a weight (56) for gravitionally applying a force to and thereby pressurizing an enclosed pocket (58) of seawater, resulting in low energy utilisation. Energy is further recovered from the flow of pressurized seawater that is supplied to the desalination system (20), resulting in a mechanically robust and energy efficient pressurization system.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2002Date of Patent: July 22, 2008Inventor: Shih Yi Wong
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Patent number: 7140180Abstract: A wave energy converter system comprises two floats; a first being generally flat and heaving up and down in phase with passing surface waves on a body of water, and the second being elongated and heaving up and down out of phase with the passing waves. Preferably, the first float is annular with a central vertical opening therethrough, and the elongated float, with a weighted bottom end, extends vertically through the central opening of the first float. The two floats thus move out of phase with one another, thus providing a relatively large relative motion between the two floats giving rise to highly efficient energy conversion. Each float serves as a “ground” for the other; thus avoiding the need for anchoring the floats to the floor of the body of water.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2004Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Ocean Power Technologies, Inc.Inventors: James Gerber, David B. Stewart
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Patent number: 7003947Abstract: A gyro wave-activated power generator utilizing wave energy which has, as a component, a control moment gyro, and which comprises a floating body (1), a control moment gyro (5) supported by the floating body, and a power generator (10) connected to the gimbal shaft of the gyro through a gearing to increase speed(9), and is characterized by the gimbal (6) of the gyro being rotated by the movement of the floating body by wave energy to drive the power generator (10) for power generation.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Japan Science and Technology CorporationInventor: Hiroshi Kanki
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Patent number: 6968683Abstract: This electrical power generating system is applicable in any location where wave action in blowhole shafts can be constructed in the protection of the geological formation. This system by using high efficiency manmade blowholes is capable of producing large quantities of compressed air. These blowholes are excavated into the natural geological formation by the application of conventional excavation, soil stabilization or construction tunneling methods. Waves entering these blowhole shafts generate a wave piston that compresses trapped air in the excavated blowhole shaft. The compressed air generated in these manmade blowholes is then utilized to drive air-driven motors, water pumps and turbines for running electrical generators. The air processing equipment, high pressure piping, valves, and related instrumentation are made up of standard industrial hardware. Surplus compressed air can also be utilized to run second stage air equipment.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2002Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Inventor: Phillip Kinyon Shields
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Patent number: 6644027Abstract: Apparatus for converting the motion of sea waves to electrical energy comprises at least one vertically oriented linear generator, relatively reciprocating motion of the armature and stator of which is driven by a float immersed in the sea directly below the motor armature. To protect the generator against unfavourable sea conditions, on the onset or occurrence of same, the float is moved to and held in a position in which it is clear of, or submerged, in the sea. This movement may be achieved in whole or in part by operating the linear generator as a linear motor.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Inventor: Hugh-Peter Granville Kelly
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Patent number: 6389810Abstract: A device to convert vertical motion of waves in a body of water into useable work has hollow float (14) centrally mounted on vertical sleeve (16) sliding on fixed vertical shaft (10). Oscillations are converted into rotation via an opposing pair of pinion gears, transferring power from upstroke and downstroke respectively, by meshing with circular grooves (18) on sleeve (16). The device is protected from lateral and torsional forces of the waves by an encircling slotted wall (8). The float may be half filled with water to balance buoyancy and gravitational forces.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2001Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Inventor: Nenad Nakomcic
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Patent number: 6226989Abstract: A wave energy converter comprises an acceleration tube (14) attached to a buoyant body (11). An intermediate section of the acceleration tube defines a working cylinder (16), with openings in the acceleration tube above and below the working cylinder allowing unobstructed flow of water between the working cylinder and the body of water in which the acceleration tube is immersed. A working piston reciprocates in the working cylinder. A relief passage at each end of the working cylinder is controlled by the working piston to allow unrestricted flow pass the working piston when the piston moves past a predetermined position at the end of the working cylinder. An energy absorbing device (19, 20) is connected to the working piston. A restoring device (19C, 20C) is provided to apply a return force to the working piston towards the working cylinder, if and when the working piston moves past the predetermined position.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 1998Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Assignee: IPS Interproject Service ABInventors: Gunnar Fredriksson, Anders Norén
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Patent number: 6109029Abstract: An apparatus and method as seen in FIG. 2 for converting the motion of waves on a body of fluid 52 into useable energy. This apparatus employs a wave follower 20 to track the rising and falling waves. The reciprocating wave follower interacts with a driven device, such as a pump 202a or generator 202b through an optional lever arm 171 and also through a drive member such as a reciprocating shaft 26. Because the driven device is incorporated into an essentially immovable floating or fixed support member 17, work is accomplished. By increasing the work producing travel distance of the driving member, being the wave follower 20 beyond that of previous art and, in certain embodiments such as that shown in FIG. 2, and by more effectively capturing surge forces that has previous art, this apparatus is intended to produce significantly more work than other similar devices operating in the same waves.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1998Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Inventors: Alan Keith Vowles, Gerald John Vowles
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Patent number: 5808368Abstract: A float (3) is attached by verticle mooring lines, or cables (8), to a pivoting lever device (2) which is mounted on a submerged anchor (1). The lever device is oriented perpendicular to the shoreline, with one arm of the lever pointing shoreward and the other pointing upward. The shoreward pointing arm is almost horizontal in orientation and long enough to compensate for tidal variations. The lines (8) from the float are attached to the end of the shoreward pointing arm. Verticle pull of the float will pull upward on the shoreward pointing arm (2B) and cause it to pivot about sealed bearings (2C), which causes the upper arm of the lever device (2A) to rotate in a largely horizontal arc away from shore, thus pulling on the main drive line (7) which is attached to the end of the upward pointing arm and which leads to shore.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1996Date of Patent: September 15, 1998Inventor: Clifford H. Brown
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Patent number: 5461862Abstract: A system for the conversion of sea wave energy including a breakwater structure including a wave energy collector integrally formed within the breakwater structure. The energy collector collects and directs oncoming waves to an upwardly extending duct having hydraulic oil separated from seawater by a membrane for converting the wave energy into oil pressure. The wave energy collector incorporates a plurality of control valves which are electronically coupled through a computerized control system which regulate the control valves so that the optimum wave pressure is collected and transferred to the hydraulic oil. A piping system conducts the pressurized hydraulic oil to a pressure tank which is connected to a hydraulic motor which is mechanically coupled to an electric generator. The system may be combined with a solar distillation apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1993Date of Patent: October 31, 1995Inventor: Shmuel Ovadia
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Patent number: 5405250Abstract: An apparatus and method for converting the motion of waves on a body of fluid into useable energy. The apparatus includes a floating or fixed rotatable support structure, a lever arm(s) pivotally supported from the support structure, and a wave follower fixed to one end of the lever arm(s) and positioned on the body of fluid. The lever arm is connected to an energy transfer device such as a piston rod which drives a load in response to the action of waves on the wave follower. The wave follower is designed such that the upper portion is constructed of a buoyant substance and the lower portion constructed in the form of a hollow chamber, open at the bottom, with the seaward face being angled so as to harness the energy of the lateral force of the wave. The open bottom of the wave follower allows the chamber to fill with fluid generally on the rise of a wave. When the fluid level drops, a suction is created in the chamber by the closing of a valve located in the upper portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1992Date of Patent: April 11, 1995Inventors: Alan Vowles, Gerald J. Vowles, Bruce Vowles
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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: 5230215Abstract: An ocean current power generation system includes a support placed on or in a state spaced apart from the ocean surface so that it is not rotated by an ocean current, a ring-like rotating member horizontally suported by the support for rotation about an axis, a plurality of ocean current-receiving members coupled in a hanging fashion to the ring-like rotating member for receiving the ocean current and rotating the ring-like rotating member at all times in a fixed direction corresponding to a direction of the ocean current, a drive gear provided on the ring-like rotating member for rotating in a concentric relation to the ring-like rotating member, a rotation accelerating gear train provided inside the support for receiving the rotation of the drive gear to accelerate its rotation, and a power generator provided inside the support and connected to the rotation accelerating gear train for receiving the accelerated rotation of the rotation accelerating gear train.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1992Date of Patent: July 27, 1993Inventor: Tsugio Nagata
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Patent number: 5005357Abstract: A turbine system utilizes the ebb and flow of the natural movements of tidal wave action to generate power. Waves are allowed to enter and exit from a chamber while at the top of the chamber a narrow exit allows for air flow into an out of the chamber is response to the water flow. A turbine placed in line with the air flow has pivoting blades that allows the turbine to rotate in one direction is response to the varying air pressures. This rotating turbine can be used to produce electrical power. An additional feature is an adjustable strike disc that limits the pivoting action of the turbine blades.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1990Date of Patent: April 9, 1991Inventor: Mansel F. Fox
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Patent number: 4914915Abstract: A turbine device for harvesting wave energy has a hollow vertical tube having an open top and a closed bottom. The vertical tube is located in a body of water with its bottom located beneath the surface of the body of water and its top located above the surface of the water. A hollow turbine tube having an open top and an open bottom is sized and shaped with respect to the vertical tube such that a variable portion of the turbine tube including its open bottom is located in and is movable within the vertical tube. A float for raising and lowering the turbine tube with respect to the vertical tube in response to wave motion is attached near the top of the turbine tube. Raising and lowering of the float in response to wave motion raises and lowers the turbine tube in the vertical tube. A liquid is contained in and is displaceable between the vertical tube and the lower portion of the turbine tube.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1989Date of Patent: April 10, 1990Inventor: Hal R. Linderfelt
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Patent number: 4803839Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for converting ocean wave motion to useable electrical energy. A float is mounted to a raft in a manner to permit movement of the float, relative to the raft, in response to ocean wave motion. An upward drive mechanism is responsive to upward motion of the float to rotate a shaft in a predetermined direction. A downward drive mechanism is responsive to downward motion of the float to rotate the shaft in the same predetermined direction. A conventional electrical generator is coupled to the shaft for converting the rotation of the shaft to electrical energy. In another embodiment the float is adapted to be dropped from an initial position above the surface of a body of water toward the water. A motor cooperates with a control assembly to lift the float from a pickup position to its initial position such that the float may again fall.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 1987Date of Patent: February 14, 1989Inventor: Baldassare Russo, III
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Patent number: 4782663Abstract: The invention provides for the generation of electrical power from low head water, such as the flowing water of rivers or the like, the electrical power is generated by passing the water in sequence over flexible bags or membranes to displace air under the flexible bags or membranes. The displacement of the air is utilized for the driving of a power generator such as an air turbine, and smooth power flow is achieved by diverting air displaced from the underside of one membrane into the cavity under the other membrane. The water flows over the membranes in sequence so that a self oscillating system is set up with the air being displaced back and forth from the cavities, and the displacement air being used to drive the air turbine. Preferably a bi-directional air turbine such as a Wells turbine is used.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 1986Date of Patent: November 8, 1988Assignee: Hydro Energy Associates LimitedInventor: Norman W. Bellamy
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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: 4773221Abstract: Apparatus for recovering kinetic energy bound in the movement of water waves. The apparatus comprises a bouyant unit (2) and an energy-absorbing device connected to the bouyant unit. The energy-absorbing device comprises an immersed rigid piston (6) which is slideably arranged in a substantially vertical, elongate accelerating tube (1) which is intended to be immersed in the water and which is open at both ends thereof. The accelerating tube is connected to the buoyant unit (2) so as to accompany movement of the unit imparted thereto by the wave movement of the water. The working stroke (1) of the piston in the accelerating tube is limited by means of movement-limit means (8,9) incorporated in the accelerating tube and arranged to abrogate the force acting on the piston. In accordance with one suitable embodiment, these movement-limiting means comprise openings (9) arranged in the accelerating tube and co-acting with corresponding openings (8) in the piston (6).Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1982Date of Patent: September 27, 1988Assignee: Interproject Service ABInventor: Sven A. Noren
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Patent number: 4741157Abstract: A wave-activated power generating apparatus includes a generally L-shaped duct including a vertically extending portion and a horizontally extending portion and a floatable main body fixedly attached to the duct. The floatable main body is provided such that it is located rearwardly of the vertically extending portion of the duct when the apparatus is set in position floating on the water surface. The horizontally extending portion is in fluidic communication with the vertically extending portion and has an open rear end which is submerged underwater in normal operating condition. Because of the particular arrangement of the main body with respect to the vertically extending portion of the duct, the apparatus is subjected to pitching motion vigorously, which allows to obtain an increased power output. In addition, the water column is ejected in the form of a jet stream in the rearward direction, which contributes to mitigate the mooring force requirements.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 1987Date of Patent: May 3, 1988Inventor: Koichi Nishikawa
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Patent number: 4720976Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for power generation which comprises a first cylinder and a second cylinder, a first float member and a second float member disposed in the first and second cylinders, respectively, and a lever arm pivotably disposed above the cylinders, the ends portions of the lever arm being operatively connected to the respective float members. The lever arm contains weight members and defines a path for guiding the weight members to traverse the lever arm between the end portions. An inlet and outlet is provided for introducing and removing water into and from the first and second cylinders, the water being supplied from a dam whereby when the water is introduced into the first cylinder and simultaneously removed from the second cylinder, the first float member is caused to rise in the first cylinder and the second float member is caused to fall in the second cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1986Date of Patent: January 26, 1988Assignee: Myung Kyoon KimInventors: Myung K. Kim, Se E. Lee
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Patent number: 4719754Abstract: A wave-activated power generating apparatus in the form of a buoy includes a floatable main body provided with a vertically extending central pipe having its bottom open end opened into the water and its top open end located above the water surface when the main body floats in the water surface, an air turbine disposed at the top open end of the central pipe, a generator operatively coupled to the air turbine, and a plate-shaped guide plate fixedly attached to the main body as located opposite to and separated away from the bottom open end of the central pipe. The provision of the bottom guide plate allows to define a laterally opened circular opening between the guide plate and the bottom of the main body, through which the water moves into and out of the central pipe. This structure allows to use the present apparatus even in shallow waters.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1985Date of Patent: January 19, 1988Inventor: Koichi Nishikawa
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Patent number: 4717832Abstract: An improved hydroelectric system provides automatic adjustment for both tidal (reversing) and river (one way) type flow. A plurality of parallel, axial flow auger-type impellors are mounted in a horizontal plane on a floating, inverted-dry-dock type vessel that has an upper deck mounting hydroelectric generators. The vessel has no bottom beneath the impellors but has parallel with them on each side a tank for buoyancy and level and flow control. Over and under the impellors are pivoting deflectors that direct flow onto the impellors and automatically reverse and rest against appropriate bumper stops when the flow reverses, from one open end to the other open end of the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1986Date of Patent: January 5, 1988Inventor: Charles W. Harris
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Patent number: 4698969Abstract: An apparatus for converting power from the wave motion of a body of water comprises a chamber with an opening for receiving waves. The chamber amplifies the amplitude of the waves. The wall of the chamber preferably has protuberance adjacent the opening for smoothing the flow of water through the opening. A float within the chamber is connected to a pump for converting the energy of the waves into useful energy.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 1985Date of Patent: October 13, 1987Assignee: Wave Power Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Fredric Raichlen, Jiin-Jen Lee