Working Member Pivotally Supported Patents (Class 60/506)
  • Patent number: 10352336
    Abstract: Various implementations include a linear actuator that provides controllable depressurization of the actuator and is tunable to the specifications set by the vehicle manufacturer. The linear actuator includes a housing and a piston and piston rod that are slidably disposed within a channel extending through the housing. The piston rod defines a vent path that includes an axial cavity adjacent the proximal end of the piston rod and radial channel extending from the axial cavity to an outer peripheral surface of the piston rod. Pressurized gas entering the housing causes the piston to move axially through the housing, and a portion of the gas vents through the cavity and radial channel to the channel of the housing and then to the environment. This venting allows the actuator to be returned to its initial or stored position within a time frame and without exceeding the force set by the manufacturer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: JOYSON SAFETY SYSTEMS ACQUISITION LLC
    Inventors: Larry Wilmot, Rachid Hammoud
  • Patent number: 10033306
    Abstract: A float operated lever device for wave energy conversion comprising at least one force amplifying lever, a pivot secured on a secured platform, a buoyant float attached to said lever and a latch means secured in position for obstructing the motion of said force amplifying lever for a fraction of half wave's period, when said float is nearly at its highest and lowest positions whereby said force amplifying lever travels downward or upward respectively, at a greater velocity and for a greater distance than in the case of free floating thus producing an amplified output force, pivoting speed and angular displacement. A method for thermal energy storage and retrieval of electricity in phase change material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Inventor: Vassilios Vamvas
  • Patent number: 9790914
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for converting wave energy into electric energy in an intelligent, practical, and efficient manner. The system utilizes a power input shaft coupled with a vertically reciprocating buoy to rotate a crank gear and a ratchet gear meshing therewith. An intelligent control system is included to monitor, control, and optimize the operations of the system. The length of the power input shaft is adjusted in response to water level fluctuations so that the rotational motion of the crank gear is intelligently controlled within a predetermined desirable region for maximum efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Fuquan Lee
  • Patent number: 9212649
    Abstract: A wave energy convertor utilizes reciprocating rotational motion of a float and float arm caused by repeated wave action to drive an electrical generator in order to produce electricity. A mount is anchored into an area of water experiencing wave action. A pulley support frame is connected to the mount. A float arm is lifted repeatedly by waves, producing rotational motion on an input axle. At least one pulley system transfers power from the input axle to an output axle connected to the electrical generator. The at least one pulley system multiplies the input rotation through mechanical advantage into a much faster angular speed at the output axle. A ratchet gear disengages influence of the float arm on the system on the downstroke. A flywheel stores rotational energy in order to maintain stable rotational rate on the downstroke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Inventor: John J. Heim
  • Patent number: 8959907
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a rotating apparatus related to water power, particularly related to wave power, and related to conversion of energy, for instance to generate electricity. The apparatus according to the invention may comprise one or more axially connected horizontally arranged floating or neutrally buoyant rotors that are driven by a number of fins that in turn are driven by wave waterflows and/or linear waterflows, said rotors being adapted for rotation, said rotation being non-changing and independent of the direction of the waterflows. The rotational energy is preferably converted to electricity by built-in generators. In addition, the apparatus comprises an arrangement so that the apparatus is adapted to move into a position corresponding to the direction of the waterflows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Inventua ApS
    Inventors: Ojvind Boltz, Manfred Boltz, Mrs. Stig Vindeløv
  • Patent number: 8925312
    Abstract: Propelling device or engine to transform potential energy into power, using the forces produced movement of a liquid surface or fluid or similar, more specifically, the device is made arranged means to exploit synergistic four forms of surface displacement of the fluid wave, objectively the upward, downward, forward wave toward the shore and pulling inward, in order to produce conventional and renewable energy more efficient than currently used systems with minimal mechanical efforts, whose employment is varied, for pumps, single or hydraulic; to generate electricity, to generate the movement of maritime vessels of any size or movement of vehicles or land machinery land, for hydropower generation, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Victor Hugo Rosales Ureta
  • Patent number: 8784653
    Abstract: A filter-anchor for placement on a sea floor is provided. It includes a filter housing for filtering sea water prior to entry into a water desalinization system. The filter housing has an exterior, an interior chamber, at least one inlet for providing the sea water to the interior chamber, and at least one outlet for enabling filtered water to be pumped from the interior chamber. A sand filter is disposed in the filter housing. The filter housing has at least one water conduction outlet conduit for filtered water to be pumped to the desalinization system. A wave energy conversion system utilizing the filter anchor is also provided to effect the pumping of the filtered water to the desalinization system. A method of anchoring a wave energy conversion system and providing filtered water to a desalinization system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Murtech, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Murtha, Michael E. McCormick, Mark Washington
  • Patent number: 8778176
    Abstract: A potable water producing system for disposition at a body of salt water and a method of producing potable water is provided. The system includes a wave energy conversion system (AWECS) and a portable filtration-anchor system. The AWECS is in the form of a floating articulated barge housing a desalination system including a reverse osmosis membrane. The filtration-anchor system is submerged in the body of salt water and includes a sand filter to filter the adjacent salt water and to provide the filtered salt water to the desalination system on the articulated barge. The action of the waves on the articulated barge provides energy to pump the filtered salt water from the sand filter to the reverse osmosis member to produce potable water. Moreover, the action of the waves on the articulated barge effects the shaking of the reverse osmosis filter, thereby rendering it self-cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Murtech, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Murtha, Michael E. McCormick, Mark K. Washington
  • Publication number: 20140165550
    Abstract: A wave absorber element (100) of the front pivot type for the absorption of wave energy from a body of water has a front end (101) comprising a front pivot axis (1) around which the absorber element (100) swings under operation, and an absorber element body (103) being substantially defined by a front side (4) extending from the front end (101) to a lower rear edge (2), a rear side (5) extending from an upper rear edge (3) to the lower rear edge (2), a top side (6) extending from the front end (101) to the upper rear edge (3), and lateral sidewalls (7, 8) defining the width Fw of the absorber body (103) in an axial direction parallel to the front pivot axis (1). The lower rear edge (2) is located in a first radial direction (11) at a first distance from the pivot axis (1), the upper rear edge (3) is located in a second radial direction (12) at a second distance from the pivot axis (1), and the first and second radial directions (11, 12) define an acute tip angle (alpha) of the absorber element (100).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: Floating Power Plant A/S
    Inventor: Anders Kohler
  • Publication number: 20140130489
    Abstract: An absorber unit 100 for the absorption of wave energy from a body of water 99 comprises an absorber element 110 of the front pivot type with a front end 111 comprising a front pivot axis 113 around which the absorber element 110 under operation reciprocates between a lower turning position and an upper turning position, and with a rear end 112 extending from a lower rear edge 114 to an upper rear edge 115. The lower rear edge 114 is located in a first radial direction 116 at a first distance from the pivot axis 113, the upper rear edge 115 is located in a second radial direction 117 at a second distance from the pivot axis 113, the first and second radial directions 116, 117 define an acute tip angle of the absorber element 110, and the first distance determines the absorber element length. The absorber unit 110 further comprises a frame structure 121 that defines an absorber chamber 122 and is configured to be essentially at rest with respect to the body of water 99.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2012
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Floating Power Plant A/S
    Inventor: Anders Køhler
  • Publication number: 20140090365
    Abstract: Apparatus for converting movement into energy, comprising a buoyant or floating body fully (1,9,11) submerged in a fluid medium. The buoyant body is supported in the fluid by a buoyancy or similar force acting in a first direction. A connecting or mooring line connects the buoyant body (1,9,11) to a pivot point displaced from the buoyant body in the direction from which the buoyancy or similar force acts on the buoyant body, and formed by a counter-weight (2). The apparatus also includes at least one power or energy take-off line (3) separate from the connecting or mooring line to convert movement of the buoyant body into energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: MATHCLICK LIMITED
    Inventor: Michele Grassi
  • Patent number: 8650870
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to wave actuated devices for converting wave energy from waves passing through water into mechanical work, the wave actuated devices including primary buoys floating in the water and configured to rise and fall with the waves as they pass through the water between lower position and upper positions, carriages coupled to the primary buoy by a linkage and moving between first and second positions, carriage magnetically interactive materials mounted to the carriages, a support structure extending from a support surface and including a pivot spaced from the support surface, and an arm pivotally supported on the pivot and extending from the pivot to a first end proximate the carriage magnetically interactive material. Some examples of wave actuated devices implement buoy force to return the system to a state of potential energy as a wave triggers the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Aaron Overman
  • Patent number: 8601808
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Erat S. Joseph
  • Patent number: 8584454
    Abstract: An electrical power generation device (10) utilising movement of the ocean comprising an elongate column (12) journalled in a support structure (14) for universal movement relative thereto. The support structure is adapted to be secured to the sea bed so that the column is disposed for at least partially submerged universal motion relative to the support structure automatically in response to force transmitted by movement of the ocean in which the support structure and the column reside. The support structure may contain an array of piston and cylinder assemblies (32) in such a construction the supported end (26) of the column is adapted to actuate one or more of the piston and cylinder assemblies in random sequence as a result of movement of the column relative to the support structure. The piston and cylinder assemblies are operatively connected to drive electrical power generators (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sybre Limited
    Inventors: Ivan Patrick Williams, John Malcolm Hepworth, David Homfray Slater
  • Publication number: 20130269333
    Abstract: A wave-energy converter (WEC) designed to capture the predominantly horizontal (surge) water motion in near-shore waves is called a Surge-type WEC. A Surge-type WEC comprises a moveable paddle that faces and resists the wave motion, in a way that converts the energy of the wave motion into a more useful form, such as electricity. The challenge addressed by the present invention is the efficient capture of the energy contained in the entire water column, from the seabed to the surface. This is a challenge because the height of the water column (depth) varies both within waves and with the tide. Capture of the full water column is accomplished using a floating paddle. The top of the paddle is pinned to the water surface by buoyancy. The lower portion of the water column is captured differently in different embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Arthur Robert Williams, Olivier Ceberio
  • Publication number: 20130125541
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wave power plant, comprising a floating body and means for converting the wave energy received by the body into electric power. The wave power plant comprises anchoring means arranged in the lower part of the body, the means including an anchoring mass suspended on a downwards extending elongated anchoring device. In connection with the anchoring mass are arranged transversely extending elongated anchoring devices which are connected to the bottom of the installation site of the wave power plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: WELLO OY
    Inventor: Heikki Paakkinen
  • Publication number: 20130104538
    Abstract: Provided is a wave power generation apparatus. The wave power generation apparatus includes an upper structure rolled by a wave, a lower structure disposed under a water plane to rotatably support the upper structure, a generation part disposed on one of the upper and lower structures to convert kinetic energy generated during rotation of the upper structure into electrical energy, and a gravity center movement part disposed on the upper structure, the gravity center movement part moving a gravity center of the upper structure to adjust a rolling period of the upper structure to a wave period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Rae Hyoung Yuck, Se Eun Kim
  • Publication number: 20130091838
    Abstract: A system and method for converting wave energy into electric energy in an intelligent, practical, and efficient manner. The system utilizes a power input shaft coupled with a vertically reciprocating buoy to rotate a crank gear and a ratchet gear meshing therewith. When the gears rotate, a plurality of generators coupled therewith produce electric energy. A flexible pivot device connects the power input shaft and the crank gear for absorbing impacts against the system from irregular and variable passing waves. The power input shaft is adjusted in response to water level fluctuations for maximum efficiency. A counterbalancing and maintenance device is coupled with the buoy to improve energy conversion efficiency and to uplift the buoy to a safe position in extreme conditions. An intelligent control system is included to monitor, control, and optimize the operations of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Fuquan Lee
  • Publication number: 20130067904
    Abstract: The invention relates to a wave power unit with a floating body (1), a submerged station (2) and flexible connection means (3) connecting the floating body (1) to the submerged station (100). The submerged station (100) has a stator 5 (5) and a moving part (6). According to the invention the flexible connection means (3) is provided with a damper (12). The damper (12) is arranged to absorb tensile forces in the flexible connection means (3). The invention also relates to a use of such a wave power unit and to a 10 method for producing and supplying electric energy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Applicant: SEABASED AB
    Inventors: Mats Leijon, Kalle haikonen
  • Publication number: 20130047601
    Abstract: This invention relates to a wave energy recovery system comprising at least a wing hinged on its one edge to make a reciprocating motion in response to kinetic energy of waves or tidal currents, a wave energy converter (WEC) unit, a power-take-off (PTO) means and wave behavior monitoring means. The wave energy recovery system comprises at least a control means to instruct the PTO means to resist the reciprocating movement of the wing by a counter moment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: AW-ENERGY OY
    Inventors: Matti Vuorinen, Erkki Kasanen
  • Patent number: 8359855
    Abstract: The apparatus for converting the motions of waves or sea swells into mechanical motion and then into usable energy. A energy transfer medium (101) situated within the unobstructed internal cavity of a containing enclosure (102) in order to recreate the magnitude and direction of a wave or sea swell inside the containing enclosure. The recreated wave consequently generates an imbalance in the mass distribution of the containing enclosure. This allows a pivoting rotating element (103) joint situated at a central point between a base (104) and the containing enclosure to take advantage of the mass imbalance in order to produce movement. A series of energy collecting devices (128) situated on the base harvests this movement and transforms it into usable energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Marcel Fagan
  • Publication number: 20130008158
    Abstract: Several embodiments of a device for economically harvesting wave energy are disclosed. A sealed vessel for air storage, the spar buoy, is mostly submerged under water is also used as an inertial body that surface floats move relative to. The spar buoy may take many geometrical forms, but all have a stem that is above the water surface. Piston pumps are placed at the top of the stem. The pump has a gearing reduction to optimize the rotational motion of the pump drive shaft. Small angular motion at the drive shaft results in multiple cycles of linear reciprocal motion of the piston. Various mechanisms could convert the relative motion between the floats and the spar buoy to a rotational motion of the shaft. The compressed air generated by the pump is stored in the spar buoy and regenerated as electrical energy by expanding the compressed air in a turbine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventor: Raphael Hon
  • Patent number: 8341957
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Erat S. Joseph
  • Publication number: 20120227396
    Abstract: Propelling device or engine to transform potential energy into power, using the forces produced movement of a liquid surface or fluid or similar, more specifically, the device is made arranged means to exploit synergistic four forms of surface displacement of the fluid wave, objectively the upward, downward, forward wave toward the shore and pulling inward, in order to produce conventional and renewable energy more efficient than currently used systems with minimal mechanical efforts, whose employment is varied, for pumps, single or hydraulic; to generate electricity, to generate the movement of maritime vessels of any size or movement of vehicles or land machinery land, for hydropower generation, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: Victor Hugo Rosales Ureta
  • Patent number: 8099955
    Abstract: The invention herein proposed describes a plant operated by the movement of floaters (A) connected to horizontal arms (B). These arms (B) move hydraulic pumps (C), which inject water into the hyperbaric chamber (E). This chamber (E) supplies water through an outflow control valve, to set in motion a conventional turbine (G) that connected to electric generator supplies electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: COPPE/UFRJ—Coordenacao dos Programas de Pos Graduacao de Engenharia da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro
    Inventors: Segen Farid Estefen, Paulo Roberto Da Costa, Marcelo Martins Pinheiro
  • Publication number: 20110296825
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a rotating apparatus related to water power, particularly related to wave power, and related to conversion of energy, for instance to generate electricity. The apparatus according to the invention may comprise one or more axially connected horizontally arranged floating or neutrally buoyant rotors that are driven by a number of fins that in turn are driven by wave waterflows and/or linear waterflows, said rotors being adapted for rotation, said rotation being non-changing and independent of the direction of the waterflows. The rotational energy is preferably converted to electricity by built-in generators. In addition, the apparatus comprises an arrangement so that the apparatus is adapted to move into a position corresponding to the direction of the waterflows.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: Inventua ApS
    Inventors: Øjvind Boltz, Manfred Boltz, Stig Vindeløv, Mrs Stig Vindeløv
  • Patent number: 8004104
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for harnessing power associated with ocean waves and converting that power into electricity. The apparatus is a buoy that houses a vertically oriented central shaft, a pendulum, and a generator. As the buoy tilts from the vertical under the influence of wave motion, the pendulum is accelerated and rotates about the central shaft. A centrally-placed generator is mechanically coupled to, and driven by, the rotating pendulum so that the pendulum's kinetic energy is converted into electricity. The electricity may be stored at or near the buoy or transferred to a remote facility. Moreover, a fin array located along the bottom of the buoy serves as an anti-torque mechanism and improves the operational efficiency of the electricity production. The method involves employing use of the centrally located generator and the fin array to efficiently harness wave power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Neptune Wave Power, LLC
    Inventor: Steven C. Hench
  • Publication number: 20110120109
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventor: Jack Alexander McGillis
  • Patent number: 7908854
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an arrangement for recovering energy contained by waves. In the arrangement, a plurality of collecting devices (8) is coupled in series. Each collecting device comprises a float (7) coupled by means of a power transmission member (10, 11) to a motion converter (13). The coupling between the collecting devices may be mechanical, the motion converters being coupled up by means of an intermediate shaft (60).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignees: Finn Escone Oy, Oitsu Oy
    Inventors: Esko Raikamo, Markku Oikarainen
  • Patent number: 7808120
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating electric energy from the motion of the waves. The apparatus comprises at least one member which is moved by the motion of the waves. The apparatus also comprises an energy transfer mechanism coupled to the or each member. The energy transfer mechanism converts the kinetic energy from movement of the or each member to potential energy by pressurization of a fluid. The apparatus further comprises a first chamber, arranged to store the pressurized fluid and a conversion means for converting the potential energy stored in the pressurized fluid into electric energy. The apparatus can be arranged such that any substantially vertical displacement of the or each member causes actuation of the or each corresponding energy transfer mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Green Ocean Energy Limited
    Inventor: George Smith
  • Patent number: 7735319
    Abstract: Power generating apparatus includes a float mounted on a support pivotally mounted to a base and secured to a beam extending rearwardly of the base to a vertically extending elongated structure carrying a pair of vertically movable gear racks in guideways. Each rack is engaged by a gear wheel driven by movement of the racks and a one-way drive arrangement connects each gear wheel to an output shaft. Driving weights are secured to each rack to drive the racks in opposite directions under the action of gravity forces acting on the weights, thus causing the output shaft to rotate in a given direction. The free end of the beam is connected to a cross-arm vertically moveable on a guide on the elongate structure, the cross-arm having a motion transmitting arrangement to raise each weight during vertical movement of the cross-arm resulting from movement of the float.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Marko Vukovic
  • Patent number: 7694513
    Abstract: A wave power apparatus includes a plurality of rotationally supported arms, each of which carries a float (124) at its free end, so that a translational movement of the float caused by a wave results in rotation of the arm. The apparatus comprises power conversion means for converting power transmitted from the wave to the arms into electric power, e.g. a hydraulic system, in which a hydraulic fluid is displaced by the movement of the arms to drive one or more hydraulic motors. The plurality of are arranged in a row such that a wave passing the row of arms causes the arms to successively pivot with a mutual phase shift. Thereby, an even power output may be achieved, and the need for frequency converters may be reduced or eliminated. Preferably, each arm is connected to a hydraulic cylinder of the hydraulic system, whereby a plurality of arms feed hydraulic medium into the hydraulic motor or motors through common hydraulic conduits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Wave Star Energy APS
    Inventors: Per Resen Steenstrup, Niels Arpe Hansen, Keld Hansen
  • Publication number: 20100058754
    Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus for harvesting both potential and kinetic energy stored in ocean waves. The ocean's surface waves can simultaneously cause a cylindrical float to move up and down as well as rotate. By incorporating this float into a mechanical rectifying assembly comprised of unidirectional drive gears, the float's vertical motion as well as its rotation can be converted into continuous, one-way rotation of a power output shaft to drive an electric generator. This arrangement achieves a wave energy conversion apparatus which is simple, has low technological, financial and maintenance requirements, and is scalable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Bright Fong, Jemi Fong
  • Publication number: 20090313988
    Abstract: The purpose of this invention is to provide a reliable and efficient support to various methods of tapping from the free, and tremendous clean energy contained in ocean waves or any such waves, in the form of pressurized fluid, or linear and rotational motion, the most efficient way, the most economically, with the broadest scope possible, while taking into account the exigencies of marine environment, in three essential parts: 1—The hull of a floating carrier designed to pitch the most possible around a pivot shaft under the influence of the energy contained in the ocean waves. 2—A dependable pressure point, as a necessary element, where any force carried by the floating carrier hull will interact, to make available the tapped energy. 3—A mooring system that keeps the floating carrier hull free of any restriction or interference with other components, while positioning it for maximum pitching when subjected to the action of ocean waves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventors: Jean Yves Cassagnol, Andre Cassagnol
  • Patent number: 7549288
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating power from waves. Weighted power cells are suspended at opposing ends of a connecting arm supported by a floating frame that rocks in response to passing waves. The power cells compress air or draw a vacuum as they fall and rise, respectively, with respect to passing waves. The compressed air and vacuum are communicated to a pressure chamber and a vacuum chamber, each of which are operably connected to pneumatically drive an electrical generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Francis W. Layher
  • Publication number: 20090056327
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for recovering energy contained by waves. The collecting device (8) comprises a float (7) coupled by means of one or more support bars (10, 11) to an actuator (12). At least one support bar is rigidly coupled to the float (7) or to a support member (62) in the float. In addition, the float (7) is arranged substantially entirely below water level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventors: Esko Raikamo, Markku Oikarainen
  • Publication number: 20080157532
    Abstract: An energy conversion system includes a first mechanical system for converting reciprocating motion to rotary motion, a second system formed of belts and pulleys connected to said first system and driven by said rotary motion to lift a weight in response to said rotary motion from a first position to a second position and allow the weight to return to said first position under the influence of gravity. A rotary electrical is driven by the second system through a transmission means connected to the second system to create electricity only while the weight is returning from its second to its first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Steven Loui, Gary Shimozono
  • Patent number: 7131269
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for utilising wave energy. In the method, the reciprocating movement of a water mass (5) in the vicinity of the bottom (6) of a water basin is adapted to actuate a body (2) or its part attached to the bottom of the water basin, the kinetic energy of the body (2) or its part being recovered into an energy reserve (3), and the energy being transferred from the energy reserve to the object of application. The invention also relates to the apparatus (1) used in the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: AW-Energy Oy
    Inventor: Rauno Koivusaari
  • Patent number: 7003947
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Japan Science and Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Kanki
  • Patent number: 6766643
    Abstract: A wind and wave energy plant (1) comprises a windmill with a rotor (3) and a wave-actuated water pump that can drive a turbine whose output shaft is in driving connection with an electric generator. The windmill includes a tubular mill tower (2), which is firmly anchored to the seabed and encloses a storage tank between the sea surface and the mill rotor (3), which tank can be filled with water by means of the pump via a non-return valve, and from which water can be led to the turbine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Henrik Frans Christensen
  • Patent number: 6104097
    Abstract: Hydro-turbine driven electrical generating unit, contained in a water tight bulb housing and submerged in a water current, is comprised of a combination of turbine runner, turbine shaft, turbine shaft seal, bearings, speed-increasing transmission, generator, and couplings, and a central terminal block for the connection of power, measuring and control cables and tubes. The electric energy generating unit is an alternating current generator which supplies the alternating current to an electric converter which transforms the the alternating current into direct current and the direct current is used in an electrolyze device producing Hydrogen and Oxygen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Kalman N. Lehoczky
  • Patent number: 5889336
    Abstract: A power generating installation located in a shallow water area of the sea for generating power utilizing a shallow water wave comprises a mooring member located either in the sea or at the sea bottom, a chain having one end connected with the mooring member and the other end to which a dead-weight is attached, and a float provided with a generator and a rotary member for rotating engaged with the chain. Rotary force of the rotary member produced when the float moves up and down according to an up-and-down motion of the wave is transmitted to the generator, thereby to generate power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Kazuo Tateishi
  • Patent number: 5798572
    Abstract: Hydro-turbine driven electrical generating unit, contained in a water tight bulb housing and submerged in a water current, is comprised of a rigid frame supporting a rotating system, consisting of a combination of turbine runner, turbine shaft, turbine shaft seal, bearings, speed-increasing transmission, generator, and couplings, and a central terminal block for the connection of power, measuring and control cables and tubes. The generating unit can be tested, adjusted and maintained outside of the bulb housing and the generating unit can be lifted and installed into or removed from the bulb housing. The bulb housing contains small side wall openings corresponding with the connection points between the generating unit and the bulb housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Kalman N. Lehoczky
  • Patent number: 5710464
    Abstract: A power drive system which includes a water collecting barrel vertically fastened to the oceanic crust under the sea level and having a reduced top end connected to the power input port of a power generator; a plurality of water tubes radially connected to the water collecting barrel for guiding sea water to the power input port of the power generator to move it into operation; a plurality of rockers respectively pivoted to the water collecting barrel; a plurality of floating devices floating on the sea level; a plurality of connecting rods connected between the floating devices and the rocker; and water pump means driven by the rockers to pump water into the water tubes and the water collecting barrel to force the power generator into operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Inventors: I. Nan Kao, Yee Kon Kao, Yee Jane Kao, De Ching Lee
  • Patent number: 5664418
    Abstract: A vertical axis wind turbine is supported by a frame held in place by an encircling series of crescent-shaped tubular deflector vanes. The vanes widen towards the turbine core, concentrating the wind. The wind is trapped momentarily on entering the turbine cavities. Air can be supplied to such cavities from a compressed air source driven by wave action on a body of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Victor Walters
  • Patent number: 5582008
    Abstract: A turbine comprising first and second stages, the first stage being a power stage and the second stage being an exhaust stage, a piston-cylinder assembly is connected between the stages, a shaft extending between the stages has at least one throw thereon in the piston-cylinder assembly and pressure conduit means extend from the first stage to the second stage and to the piston-cylinder assembly whereby the fluid pressure from the first stage drives the piston-cylinder assembly and acts on the second stage to cause the second stage to exhaust fluid from the turbine to a reservoir therefor. Fluid is supplied to the turbine from a pressure source and the turbine exhausts fluid to the reservoir, and further including means for transferring the fluid from the reservoir back to the pressure source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1996
    Inventor: Frank Buonome
  • Patent number: 5424582
    Abstract: A wave power generator is substantially continuously driven by a pair of floats connected to a common drive shaft and positioned side by side along a line perpendicular to the direction of wave motion, one float being specifically designed to efficiently drive the shaft during the rising portion of a wave, the other to efficiently drive the shaft during the falling portion of a wave. The generator's flywheel is maintained at a constant speed by an automatic load control throughout a range of wave patterns sufficient to encompass over 70% of the statistically expected wave patterns at the generator location. An inclined-bottom float is used for the rising wave drive, and a bottom-weighted float is disclosed for the falling wave drive. The floats may be disposed one above the other and may have mating conical surfaces for cushioning occasional contact between the floats.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Elektra Power Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Trepl, II, Farhad Bashardoust
  • Patent number: 5094595
    Abstract: What has been invented is a machine that is planted on the ocean floor or set out floating on the ocean to convert the energy of the surfs into storable and consumable energies, such as, compressed air, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: Gaudencio A. Labrador
  • Patent number: 5084630
    Abstract: A wave powered generator incorporating a plurality of paddle and hydraulic cylinder units. Each paddle and hydraulic cylinder unit has a paddle in the path of waves and is pivotally supported to reciprocate and operate a hydraulic pump. Each hydraulic pump discharges into an accumulator that in turn delivers fluid to an electric generator station. The accumulator automatically accommodates variations in flow rate from the hydraulic cylinder. There are provisions for accommodating variations in the height and velocity of waves, of changes in the period of the waves, and of changes in the level of the sea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Inventor: Hossein Azimi
  • Patent number: 5052902
    Abstract: What has been invented is a machine constructed according to the apparatus illustrated by FIG. 6 in Sheet 5/9, set out floating on the ocean to convert the energy of the water waves into storable and consumable energies, such as, compressed air, etc, comprising:(a) A Multi-Stage Piston Compressor, as per FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, which is a composition of several cylinders joint end after end, decreasing in diameter by end after end, having a piston with one-way valves in each cylinder, having one-way valves on every partition wall between cylinders, a single long piston rod common to all cylinders that moves each of the pistons synchronically to push the compressed air towards its smaller end;(b) A Power Board System as per FIG.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Inventor: Gaudencio A. Labrador