Expandable wave energy conversion system
US7476137B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 25, 2006 |
| Grant date | Jan 13, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 25, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A wave energy converter (WEC) for converting energy contained in surface waves on a body of water to useful energy comprises two floats movable relative to one another in response to passing surface waves. Both floats comprise expandable outer envelopes which have been expanded into full and firm shape. In one process, expansion is obtained by filling the floats with fluids, for example, air and water. The fluids can be pumped into the floats, or the floats can be mechanically expanded in the presence of the fluids for self filling owing to pressure differentials. In one embodiment, a float envelope can comprise of plurality of end to end connected length sections in nested or telescoped relationship. Expansion is obtained by pulling the telescoped sections out from one and other, for example, by pumping fluids into the telescoped sections.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.