Configurations and methods for wave energy extraction
US7770390B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 21, 2005 |
| Grant date | Aug 10, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 15, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A wave energy harvester (100A) includes an element (120A) that converts forward and/or backward of water in a wave (102A, B, C) passing the harvester (100A) into upward and/or downward movement to thereby increase the vertical amplitude of the harvester (100A) relative to the sea floor (104A, B, C). In most preferred aspects, the element (120A) is a hydrofoil that is coupled to the harvester (100A). Further preferred aspects include those in which part of, or the entire harvester (100A) has a neutral buoyancy, and where energy is extracted from the downwards movement of the neutrally buoyant part (100A) after a wave has lifted that part (110A).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.