A system includes an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), a reaction structure configured to deploy from a body of the UUV, and one or more tendons connecting the reaction structure to the body of the UUV, wherein the reaction structure deploys at a depth below the body of the UUV. The system further includes one or more power take-out (PTO) units coupled to or between the reaction structure and the UUV. The system further includes a control unit coupled to the one or more PTO units to convert energy from waves on a surface of a body of water for use in other systems within the UUV.
A system includes an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), a first reaction structure configured to deploy from a body of the UUV, and a second reaction structure configured to deploy between the first reaction structure and the body of the UUV. The system further includes one or more tendons connecting the first and second reaction structures to the body of the UUV, wherein the first reaction structure deploys at a depth below the second reaction structure.
A system includes an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), a first reaction structure configured to deploy from a body of the UUV, and a second reaction structure configured to deploy between the first reaction structure and the body of the UUV. The system further includes one or more tendons connecting the first and second reaction structures to the body of the UUV, wherein the first reaction structure deploys at a depth below the second reaction structure.
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes a float, a drivetrain, a reaction structure coupled to the drivetrain by at least one tendon, and a power dissipation system coupled to the drivetrain. The power dissipation system is configured to manage peak loads in the WEC system by dissipating peak energy spikes caused by relative movement of the reaction structure and the float.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
A wave energy converter (WEC) system includes a float, a drivetrain, a reaction structure coupled to the drivetrain by at least one tendon, and a power dissipation system coupled to the drivetrain. The power dissipation system is configured to manage peak loads in the WEC system by dissipating peak energy spikes caused by relative movement of the reaction structure and the float.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Converter for converting wave-based mechanical energy into electrical energy; Apparatus for the conversion of wave energy into storable form, namely, mechanical hydro energy wave converters; Apparatus and instruments for conducting, switching, transforming, accumulating, regulating or controlling the distribution or use of electric current; Electric power converters; Apparatus for converting wave, tidal, or hydro energy to electrical energy, namely, mechanical hydro energy wave converters
7.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR INTEGRATED WAVE POWER CHARGING FOR OCEAN VEHICLES
A system includes an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), a reaction stmcture configured to deploy from a body of the UUV, and one or more tendons connecting the reaction stmcture to the body of the UUV, wherein the reaction structure deploys at a depth below the body of the UUV. The system further includes one or more power take-out (PTO) units coupled to or between the reaction stmcture and the UUV. The system further includes a control unit coupled to the one or more PTO units to convert energy from waves on a surface of a body of water for use in other systems within the UUV.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
B63H 19/02 - Marine propulsion not otherwise provided for by using energy derived from movement of ambient water, e.g. from rolling or pitching of vessels
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A system for production of desalinated water includes a wave energy convertor for conversion of mechanical energy from ocean waves into electricity and mechanical energy in the form of a salt-water stream. The system further includes a desalination unit coupled to the wave energy convertor. The system further includes an electrical connection from the wave energy convertor to the desalination unit, configured to supply the electricity to the desalination unit. The system further includes a conduit to supply the salt-water stream produced by the wave energy convertor to the desalination unit, wherein the desalination unit is configured to produce desalinated water.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/22 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the flow of water resulting from wave movements, e.g. to drive a hydraulic motor or turbine
9.
Extension spring and fairlead based power take-out for wave power systems
A system includes a float including a drivetrain, a reaction structure coupled to the drivetrain by a tendon, and an extension spring having a first end coupled to a fixed point on the tendon and a second end configured to be disposed at a fixed location relative to the drivetrain. The extension spring is configured to experience an elastic force in response to tension on the first end of the extension spring away from the drivetrain.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A system includes a float including a drivetrain, a reaction structure coupled to the drivetrain by a tendon, and an extension spring having a first end coupled to a fixed point on the tendon and a second end configured to be disposed at a fixed location relative to the drivetrain. The extension spring is configured to experience an elastic force in response to tension on the first end of the extension spring away from the drivetrain.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F15B 7/02 - Systems with continuously-operating input and output apparatus
A system includes an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), a reaction structure configured to deploy from a body of the UUV, and one or more tendons connecting the reaction structure to the body of the UUV, wherein the reaction structure deploys at a depth below the body of the UUV. The system further includes one or more power take-out (PTO) units coupled to or between the reaction structure and the UUV. The system further includes a control unit coupled to the one or more PTO units to convert energy from waves on a surface of a body of water for use in other systems within the UUV.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
A system converts mechanical wave energy into electrical energy. The system includes a wave energy converter (WEC), which includes a surface float, a reaction structure, a plurality of flexible tethers, and a plurality of drivetrains. Each flexible tether connects the surface float to the reaction structure. Each drivetrain is connected to a corresponding flexible tether. Each flexible tether has a length established to treat the system as an inverse pendulum to utilize a horizontal surge motion of the surface float to present tension at the corresponding drivetrain for production of electrical energy from the horizontal surge motion.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
B63B 22/18 - Buoys having means to control attitude or position, e.g. reaction surfaces or tether
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for WEC system for a wave energy converter. The system includes a buoyant object, a reaction body and a line coupling the reaction body and the buoyant object. The system further includes a drivetrain coupled to one of the buoyant object or reaction body. The drivetrain includes a sheave coupled to one of the buoyant object or reaction body and an actuator coupled to the sheave. The line is coupled to the sheave, wherein movement of the buoyant object relative to the reaction body applies a force to the sheave. The force on the sheave drives the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to apply a spring force.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for WEC system for a wave energy converter. The system includes a buoyant object, a reaction bity and a line coupling the reaction body and the buoyant object. The system further includes a drivetrain coupled to one of the buoyant object or reaction body. The drivetrain includes a sheave coupled to one of the buoyant object or reaction body and an actuator coupled to the sheave. The line is coupled to the sheave, wherein movement of the buoyant object relative to the reaction body applies a force to the sheave. The force on the sheave drives the actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to apply a spring force.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A system converts mechanical wave energy into electrical energy. The system includes a wave energy converter (WEC), which includes a surface float, a reaction structure, a plurality of flexible tethers, and a plurality of drivetrains. Each flexible tether connects the surface float to the reaction structure. Each drivetrain is connected to a corresponding flexible tether. Each flexible tether has a length established to treat the system as an inverse pendulum to utilize a horizontal surge motion of the surface float to present tension at the corresponding drivetrain for production of electrical energy from the horizontal surge motion.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A wave energy conversion (WEC) system includes a float body, a heave plate, a tether, and a controller. The tether couples the heave plate to the float body. The controller controls the tether between survivability modes. Each survivability mode adjusts a tension and/or length of the tether.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for power transfer system for a wave energy converter. The system includes a plurality of hydraulic cylinders including a first cluster of input cylinders and a second cluster of output cylinders. The input cylinders are coupled to an underwater structure and are configured to receive an input force from a relative motion between a buoy housing and the underwater structure. The output cylinders are configured to transfer an output force to an electric generator. The power transfer system further includes a hydraulic connection between the input cylinders and the output cylinders. The hydraulic connection is configurable to switch a portion of the hydraulic cylinders into and out of the hydraulic connection between the input cylinders and the output cylinders.
F03B 13/10 - Submerged units incorporating electric generators or motors
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
A device for generating electrical energy from mechanical motion includes a surface float and at least one force modifier disposed at least partially within the interior of the surface float, the force modifier to receive an input force at a pumping cylinder and apply a modified force to a generator through a driving cylinder. The pumping cylinder or the driving cylinder is a tandem cylinder.
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
A wave energy converter includes a surface float including a non-axisymmetric profile, a reaction plate configured to be submerged below a water surface, and more than one flexible tether, each mechanically coupled to both the surface float and the reaction plate, the reaction plate having a moment of inertia in pitch and roll greater than a moment of inertia in pitch and roll of the surface float.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
A wave energy converter includes a surface float including a non-axisymmetric profile, a reaction plate configured to be submerged below a water surface, and more than one flexible tether, each mechanically coupled to both the surface float and the reaction plate, the reaction plate having a moment of inertia in pitch and roll greater than a moment of inertia in pitch and roll of the surface float.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
H02K 35/00 - Generators with reciprocating, oscillating or vibrating coil system, magnet, armature or other part of the magnetic circuit
F15B 7/02 - Systems with continuously-operating input and output apparatus
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
21.
Force modification system for wave energy convertors
A device for generating electrical energy from mechanical motion includes a buoy housing and at least one force modifier disposed at least partially within the interior of the buoy housing. The force modifier receives an input force and applies a modified force to another component. The force modifier includes a hydraulic system and the hydraulic system includes a first hydraulic piston having a first area and a second hydraulic piston having a second area, where the first area and the second area are not equal.
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
F03B 3/18 - Stator blades; Guide conduits or vanes, e.g. adjustable
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A device for converting wave energy includes a surface float, a heave plate, at least one load carrying structure that is mechanically coupled to at least one component of at least one generator on the surface float and the heave plate. The heave plate has an asymmetric geometry to facilitate a first level of resistance to movement in an upward direction and a second level of resistance in a downward direction. The first level of resistance is higher than the second level of resistance. The at least one load carrying structure includes a flexible tether. The at least one component is configured to experience force changes caused by hydrodynamic forces acting on the surface float and heave plate.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/16 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
23.
Method for deploying and recovering a wave energy converter
A system for transporting a buoy and a heave plate. The system includes a buoy and a heave plate. An outer surface of the buoy has a first geometrical shape. A surface of the heave plate has a geometrical shape complementary to the first geometrical shape of the buoy. The complementary shapes of the buoy and the heave plate facilitate coupling of the heave plate to the outer surface of the buoy in a transport mode.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
H02J 7/34 - Parallel operation in networks using both storage and other dc sources, e.g. providing buffering
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
B63B 22/18 - Buoys having means to control attitude or position, e.g. reaction surfaces or tether
24.
METHOD FOR DEPLOYING AND RECOVERING A WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER
A system for transporting a buoy and a heave plate. The system includes a buoy and a heave plate. An outer surface of the buoy has a first geometrical shape. A surface of the heave plate has a geometrical shape complementary to the first geometrical shape of the buoy. The complementary shapes of the buoy and the heave plate facilitate coupling of the heave plate to the outer surface of the buoy in a transport mode.
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
An energy harvester generates electrical energy from mechanical energy using changing flux properties in primary and secondary flux paths. An apparatus includes at least two primary flux paths. The primary flux paths include at least one bias flux path configured to exhibit a change in a flux property in response to a change in an external load applied to the bias flux path. The secondary flux path is magnetically coupled to the primary flux paths. The secondary flux path is configured to experience alternating flux directions in response to the change in the flux property of the bias flux path. Electrical energy can be induced in a conductor as a result of the alternating flux direction in the secondary flux path.
H01L 41/06 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof - Details of magnetostrictive elements
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
26.
Power production in a completed well using magnetostrictive materials
A device for generating electrical energy from mechanical motion includes a magnetostrictive generator configured to be mechanically coupled to a power conveyance path in a well bore. The power conveyance path is configured to experience an axial force change, and the magnetostrictive generator includes at least one magnetostrictive element that experiences a corresponding force change that results in a change in magnetic permeability in the at least one magnetostrictive element resulting, and is configured to experience a change in magnetic flux in a least one component that is electromagnetically coupled to at least one conductive coil, and the conductive coil is configured to generate electricity due to these magnetic flux changes.
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
A device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion in a downhole environment. The device converts rotary motion into a linear strain in a magnetostrictive material. The device includes a rotor, a magnetostrictive element, and an electrically conductive coil. The rotor rotates within a stator of a drill string. The magnetostrictive element is attached to the rotor by a first ball joint. The magnetostrictive element is configured to experience axial strain in response to rotational movement of the rotor. The magnetostrictive element includes a second ball joint on an end of the magnetostrictive element opposite the first ball joint. The electrically conductive coil is disposed in proximity to the magnetostrictive element. The electrically conductive coil is configured to generate an electrical current in response to a change in flux density of the magnetostrictive element.
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON through its CENTER FOR COMMERCIALIZATION (USA)
OSCILLA POWER, INC. (USA)
Inventor
Thomson, James, M.
Talbert, Joseph, L.
Deklerk, Alex
Rusch, Curtis
Murphree, Zachary
Abstract
Apparatuses and associated methods for converting wave energy into electrical energy are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a surface-based buoy can be connected to a magnetostrictive element that changes its output voltage when subjected to the in tension. To keep the heave plate under tension, a tether with a heave plate can be attached to the magnetostrictive element. Since the magnetostrictive element can be sensitive to zero tension (e.g., a slack in the tether) followed by a sudden increase in the tension, in at least some embodiments it is preferred to keep the magnetostrictive element tensioned at all times. In some embodiments of the present technology, an inertia-dominated heave plate may be designed to sink faster than the buoy falls in the trough of the wave, therefore keeping the tether tensioned at all times. For example, the design (e.g., mass, diameter, height) of the heave plate can be such that the static force of gravity S exceeds a sum of the drag D and inertia / under expected wave conditions.
F03B 13/20 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein both members are movable relative to the sea bed or shore
The device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion. The device includes at least one magnetostlictive element and at least one force modifier. The force modifier is coupled to the magnetostrictive element. The force modifier receives an input force and applies a modified force to the magnetostrictive element. Many different systems exist for power generation. With advances in technology comes the need to provide power to operate that technology. Frequently, power generation must be portable or able to collect energy from diverse environments without doing damage to that environment.
F03B 13/14 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy
The device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion. The device includes at least one magnetostrictive element and at least one force modifier. The force modifier is coupled to the magnetostrictive element. The force modifier receives an input force and applies a modified force to the magnetostrictive element.
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
F03B 13/18 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy using wave energy using the relative movement between a wave-operated member and another member wherein the other member is fixed, at least at one point, with respect to the sea bed or shore
A device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion in a downhole environment. The device includes a magnetostrictive element and an electrically conductive coil. The magnetostrictive element has a first end and a second end. The first and second ends are coupled between a rotor and a bearing. The magnetostrictive element is configured to experience axial strain in response to radial movement of at least one of the rotor or the bearing with reference to the other. The electrically conductive coil is disposed in proximity to the magnetostrictive element. The coil is configured to generate an electrical current in response to a change in flux density of the magnetostrictive element.
A device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion in a downhole environment. The device includes a magnetostrictive element and an electrically conductive coil. The magnetostrictive element has a first end and a second end. The first and second ends are coupled between a rotor and a bearing. The magnetostrictive element is configured to experience axial strain in response to radial movement of at least one of the rotor or the bearing with reference to the other. The electrically conductive coil is disposed in proximity to the magnetostrictive element. The coil is configured to generate an electrical current in response to a change in flux density of the magnetostrictive element.
H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
E21B 41/00 - Equipment or details not covered by groups
33.
Axial loading for magnetostrictive power generation
A device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion in a downhole environment. The device includes a magnetostrictive element and an electrically conductive coil. The magnetostrictive element has a first end and a second end. The first and second ends are coupled between two connectors. The magnetostrictive element is configured to experience axial strain in response to radial movement of at least one of the connectors relative to the other connector. The electrically conductive coil is disposed in proximity to the magnetostrictive element. The coil is configured to generate an electrical current in response to a change in flux density of the magnetostrictive element.
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
34.
AXIAL LOADING FOR MAGNETOSTRICTIVE POWER GENERATION
A device generates electrical energy from mechanical motion in a downhole environment. The device includes a magneto strictive element and an electrically conductive coil. The magneto strictive element has a first end and a second end. The first and second ends are coupled between two connectors. The magnetostrictive element is configured to experience axial strain in response to radial movement of at least one of the connectors relative to the other connector. The electrically conductive coil is disposed in proximity to the magnetostrictive element. The coil is configured to generate an electrical current in response to a change in flux density of the magnetostrictive element.
A device for generating electricity includes a buoyant structure, a heave plate, at least one load carrying structure that is mechanically coupled to both the buoyant structure and the heave plate, and at least one magnetostrictive element. The magnetostrictive element is configured to to experienceforce changes applied by the load carrying structure caused by hydrodynamic forces acting on the device.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
36.
METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MECHANICAL ENERGY HARVESTING
An apparatus for harvesting electrical power from mechanical energy is described. The apparatus includes at least one magnetostrictive element, at least one electrically conductive coil or circuit, and a magnetic circuit coupled to the electrically conductive coil or circuit to increase or maximize power production. The magnetostrictive element is configured to experience a forced stress and strain in response to external mechanical excitations. The electrically conductive coil or circuit is configured to produce electrical energy through electromagnetic induction.
An apparatus harvests electrical power from mechanical energy. The apparatus includes first and second load-bearing structures, a plurality of magnetostrictive elements, and an electrical circuit or coil. The load-bearing structures experience a force from an external source. The magnetostrictive elements are arranged between the load-bearing structures. The load-bearing structures transfer at least a portion of the force to at least one of the magnetostrictive elements. In this way, at least one of the magnetostrictive elements experiences the force transferred from the load-bearing structures. The force on the magnetostrictive element causes a change in magnetic flux of the magnetostrictive element. The electrical circuit or coil is disposed within a vicinity of the magnetostrictive element which experiences the force. The electrical circuit or coil generates electric power in response to the change in the magnetic flux of the magnetostrictive element.
H01L 41/00 - SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICES; ELECTRIC SOLID STATE DEVICES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR - Details thereof
H02N 2/18 - Electric machines in general using piezoelectric effect, electrostriction or magnetostriction producing electrical output from mechanical input, e.g. generators
Embodiments described herein relate to a method and device for harvesting energy from a fluid flow by converting the kinetic energy of the flow into vibrational energy, which then may be converted to electrical energy by a magnetostrictive-based vibrational energy harvester. Some embodiments of this device rely on the principle of vortex-induced vibrations, where the frequency of the induced vibration is of the same order as the frequency of vortex shedding. Some embodiments of this device rely on the principle of turbulence- induced vibration, where the frequency of vibration can be significantly higher than the vortex shedding frequency, and is related to the turbulence frequency of the flow. Some embodiments also relate to converting energy from pressure pulses or differentials in the fluid. These embodiments in no way limit the vibration induction mechanism, and other principles of flow-induced vibration may be used in conjunction with the magnetostrictive-based vibrational energy harvester.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
39.
ENERGY HARVESTING METHODS AND DEVICES, AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF
An apparatus harvests electrical power from mechanical energy. The apparatus includes first and second load-bearing structures, a plurality of magnetostrictive elements, and an electrical circuit or coil. The load-bearing structures experience a force from an external source. The magnetostrictive elements are arranged between the load-bearing structures. The load- bearing structures transfer at least a portion of the force to at least one of the magnetostrictive elements. In this way, at least one of the magnetostrictive elements experiences the force transferred from the load-bearing structures. The force on the magnetostrictive element causes a change in magnetic flux of the magnetostrictive element. The electrical circuit or coil is disposed within a vicinity of the magnetostrictive element which experiences the force. The electrical circuit or coil generates electric power in response to the change in the magnetic flux of the magnetostrictive element.
An apparatus for harvesting energy is described. The apparatus includes a vibration component and a moving mass. The vibration component has a first and second end and further includes a magnetostrictive material. The vibration component further includes a conduction coil wrapped around the magnetostrictive material. The moving mass is coupled to the second end of the vibration assembly. The mass is configured to move in an oscillating path in response to forces acting on the vibration energy harvesting apparatus, inducing strain on the magnetostrictive material. The strain on the magnetostrictive material changes a magnetic property of the magnetostrictive material, inducing electrical energy in the conduction coil wrapped around the magnetostrictive material. Other embodiments of the apparatus are also described.
An apparatus for harvesting electrical power from hydrodynamic energy, the apparatus including a buoy or other water flotation device connected to an anchor by a tether and a magnetostrictive component having an internal pre-stressed magnetostrictive core that experiences at least a part of load changes experienced by the tether. The magnetic property of the magnetostrictive core is configured to change with changes in stress within the magnetostrictive core along at least one direction within the magnetostrictive component. The hydrodynamic energy acting on the buoy or other water flotation device results in changes in force within the tether, which in turn changes the stress within the magnetostrictive core and consequently changes a magnetic property. The magnetostrictive component is also configured such that the change in the magnetic property will result in a change in magnetic flux, which change can be used to generate electrical power.
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy
42.
APPARATUS FOR HARVESTING ELECTRICAL POWER FROM MECHANICAL ENERGY
An apparatus for harvesting electrical power from mechanical energy is described. The apparatus includes: a flux path. The flux path includes: a magnetic material having a magnetic property that is a function of stress on the magnetic material; a first magnetically conductive material proximate the magnetic material; a magnet in the flux path, wherein a magnetomotive force of the magnet causes magnetic flux; and a component configured to transfer changes in load caused by an external source to the magnetic material.
H01H 47/00 - Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the relay and designed to obtain desired operating characteristics or to provide energising current
43.
ELECTRICAL GENERATOR THAT UTILIZES ROTATIONAL TO LINEAR MOTION CONVERSION
A method and device for energy conversion from a moving fluid to electrical energy. The device includes at least one magnetic structure, at least one coil structure, a rotating component, and a rotary to linear motion conversion mechanism. The at least one coil structure includes electrically conductive material. The rotating component rotates relative to a corresponding axis of rotation in response to forces applied by the moving fluid on a structure coupled to the rotating component. The rotary to linear motion conversion mechanism is coupled to the rotating component. Rotation of the rotating component around the corresponding axis of rotation generates a relative linear displacement between the at least one magnetic structure and at least one coil in the at least one coil structure. The relative linear displacement between the at least one magnetic structure and the at least one coil generates electrical energy in the coil structure.
F03D 9/00 - Adaptations of wind motors for special use; Combinations of wind motors with apparatus driven thereby; Wind motors specially adapted for installation in particular locations
A method and device for using radial relative displacement between a magnet and coil to generate electricity from fluid motion. The device includes a support structural component, a moveable magnetic structure, a rotating structural component, and bearings. The moveable magnetic structure is coupled to the support structural component. The rotating structural component rotates relative to the support structural component. The bearings are coupled to or disposed with the rotating structural component. The rotation of the rotating structural component results in forces applied by the bearings on the moveable magnetic structure and movement of the moveable magnetic structure.
A method and device (100) for generating electricity from ocean waves. The device (100) includes at least one magnetostrictive element (106) and one or more electrically conductive coils or circuits (112). When the magnetostrictive element (106) is deployed in a body of water (102), the motion of the body of water (102), including wave motion, causes changes in the strain of the magnetostrictive element (106). The electrically conductive coil or circuit (112) is within the vicinity of the magnetostrictive element (106). A corresponding change in magnetic field around the magnetostrictive element (106) generates an electric voltage and/or electric current in the electrically conductive coil or circuit (112).
F03B 13/12 - Adaptations of machines or engines for special use; Combinations of machines or engines with driving or driven apparatus; Power stations or aggregates characterised by using wave or tide energy