Apparatus for converting wave energy into electrical energy
US10113529B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 30, 2015 |
| Grant date | Oct 30, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 30, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/30
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus for converting wave energy into electrical energy including a float element excited at a defined frequency by the waves. A power extraction system collaborates with the float element to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, the mechanical energy coming from the movement of the float element excited by the waves. The power extraction system takes the form of a frequency amplifier made up of at least two piezoelectric motors each composed of at least one piezoelectric post excited at a frequency higher than that of the float, and a member for activating said piezoelectric motors acting on the piezoelectric motors so as to squash said piezoelectric posts. Each piezoelectric motor has a mechanical amplification device connected to rollers and includes a) jaws able to apply mechanical stress to the posts, b) a lever acting on the jaws with a proximal end connected to said jaws and a distal end connected to a roller in contact with the member so as to activate said piezoelectric motor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.