Loading patent…
AssigneeNova Oceanic Energy Systems
InventorsAlvaro Jose Atilano Medina, Rafael Uzcategui Trinkl
Estimating the term…
A wave energy conversion system or device is provided which includes a hull that serves as a float, moving up and down with incoming waves. The power take-off system contained within the hull comprises a longitudinal main rotary shaft upon which a series different diameter sets of dual same-diameter pinions interact with the main rotary shaft through their corresponding freewheels. This interaction only allows the main rotary shaft to rotate in only one direction. A fork-like rod system member that is either fixed directly to a base on the seabed or to a supporting underwater taut moored floating platform. This fork-like rod system member has an alternate rod in permanent contact with each pinion (two rods per each set of dual same-diameter pinions). The device also is capable of self-adjusting its mechanical properties and orientation to take into account the predominant wave frequency and direction over a period of time in a practical way to provide continuous, or multiple level, tuning of the system and is self-orienting for maximum and minimum energy absorption depending on sea conditions.
An apparatus for generating energy from water wave action, comprising:
An method for generating energy from water wave action in an apparatus comprising a hull floating in the water and oscillating up and down in response to wave action, a plurality of rods having gear teeth therein, fixed relative to the hull, such that when the hill oscillates up and down, the plurality of rods remain relatively stationary relative to the hull, a plurality of at least pinion gear pairs, each pinion of the plurality of pinion gear pairs engaging a corresponding one of the plurality of rods, such that when the hull oscillates up and down, the pinions rotate, and a main shaft, for outputting rotary shaft motion, the method comprising the step of:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.