Hybrid bifurcating wave energy converter
AssigneeAlliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC
InventorBlake Boren
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A hybrid bifurcating wave energy converter (WEC) is described. The hybrid bifurcating WEC may be capable operating in various orientations with various degrees of rigidity and/or flexibility. The amount of rigidity or flexibility may be based on the intended mode of operation and the intended operational environment. In some embodiments, the hybrid bifurcating WEC may utilize distributed embedded energy converter technologies and folding, origami-like mechanics. In this way, the overall shape, form, and function of the hybrid bifurcating WEC may be governed by a structure with hinges, bends, and/or joints with the ability to fold and unfold in some embodiments being controlled by the distribution and embedding of many relatively small energy converters (i.e., generators).
Claims13
A device comprising:
- a first panel having a first end;
- a second panel having a second end;
- and
- a hinge connected to the first end and the second end and comprising a damping device;
- wherein:
- an angle exists between the first panel and the second panel with a vertex at the hinge, a generator is positioned within the hinge,
- the angle has a first value and a second value,
- the second value is less than the first value,
- the damping device configured to return the angle to the first value when an external stimuli results in the first panel changing the angle to the second value, and
- the generator is capable of converting changes in the angle from an external stimuli to electrical energy.
A device comprising:
- a first panel having a first end;
- a second panel having a second end;
- a first hinge connected to the first end and the second end;
- and
- a second hinge connected to the second end and a substantially solid material, wherein:
- a second generator is positioned within the second hinge,
- a first angle exists between the first panel and the second panel with a vertex at the hinge,
- a first generator is positioned within the first hinge,
- a second angle exists between the second panel and the substantially solid surface with a vertex at the second hinge,
- the first generator is capable of converting changes in the first angle from an external stimuli to electrical energy and
- the second generator is capable of converting changes in the second angle from the external stimuli to electrical energy.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.