System for conversion of wave energy into electrical energy
US8878381B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 1, 2012 |
| Grant date | Nov 4, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/727
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The disclosure provides a device for converting wave motion into electricity, and methods of using the devices for generating electricity. The disclosure also provides a power generation device that includes a water blanket having a plurality of pods arranged in a grid for floating on the surface of a body of water. In one example, ball joints and hydraulic cylinders couple each of the pods to adjacent pods. Motors are coupled to the hydraulic cylinders such that a flow of hydraulic fluid created by expansion and compression of the cylinders due to movement of the pods causes rotational motion in the motor. Generators are coupled to respective motors to generate electricity from the rotational motion of the motors. Power from the ocean blanket can be supplemental with wind turbines, water paddles, water turbines, and solar cells.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.