| 摘要 |
<p>Apparatus (10) rests on the seabed at a location below sea level for capturing wave energy. The apparatus (10) comprises a body structure (11) having a diaphragm (25) adapted to deflect in response to wave action. A working chamber (27) is disposed immediately below the diaphragm (25) and contains a compressible fluid such as air. A pump system (43) is accommodated within the working chamber (27). The pump system (43) comprises two reciprocating pumps (45, 47) operating in opposition. The pumps (45, 47) are operably connected to the diaphragm (25) through a lever mechanism (61). Because of the geometry of the lever mechanism (61), the stroke length of each pump (45, 47) is less than the amplitude of displacement of the diaphragm (25) as it moves in response to wave action. Thus, the lever mechanism (61) increases the force acting on each pump (45, 47) by a given ratio and reduces the stroke of each pump by the same ratio. The reduction in stroke length provides for compact construction so that the pumps (45, 47) can be readily accommodated within the working chamber (27). The pumps (45, 47) draw seawater from the environment about the apparatus (10) and discharge the seawater at a high-pressure. The high-pressure seawater generated by the pumps can be piped to shore for use in any appropriate purpose.</p> |
