Wave energy converter with asymmetrical float

摘要

A wave energy converter (WEC) having an asymmetrically shaped float and a spar which move relative to each other in response to the waves. The asymmetrical float has one side longer than the other. A power take off device (PTO) is coupled between the asymmetric float and the spar for converting their relative motion into useful power. Apparatus is coupled to the WEC for: (a) orienting and rotating the longer side of the float to face and receive oncoming waves to increase energy capture when the waves have an amplitude below a predetermined value for improving the power generation of the WEC; and (b) rotating the float to orient the narrower side of the float to face and receive the incoming waves when the waves have an amplitude above a predetermined value, so as to reduce the forces to which the WEC is subjected.;There is no known WEC system with an asymmetrical float which is raised and lowered by the waves.

主权项

1. A wave energy converter (WEC) comprising:
an asymmetrically shaped float having a length (L) and a width (W), wherein the length, L, is greater than the width, W, and a spar, the spar and float moving relative to each other as a function of the waves; a power take off device (PTO) coupled between the asymmetric float and the spar for converting their relative motion into useful power; and apparatus coupled to the float for controlling and changing the orientation of the float as a function of at least one of the direction and amplitude of the waves.