Ocean energy harvesting system
US7821150B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 16, 2007 |
| Grant date | Oct 26, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 6, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/30
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An ocean energy harvesting system utilizes horizontal structural members that rotate in response to wave motion. The structural members are designed to capture energy in a line array that replicates the shape of the waves as they pass through the ocean. A generator platform is placed in the ocean environment or on the shore, and the structural members rotate under the platform or around a pivot post placed in proximity to the platform. The rotation drives a generator shaft due to direct attachment to the structural member or from a cable attached to a structural member some distance from the platform. The structural members can be of substantial length depending on the prevailing wave conditions at the site and the desired amount of energy capture. The system adjusts to differing water levels due to tidal shifts.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.