초록 ▼

A method and apparatus for harnessing power associated with ocean waves and converting that power into electricity. The apparatus is a buoy that houses a vertically oriented central shaft, a pendulum, and a generator. As the buoy tilts from the vertical under the influence of wave motion, the pendul

A method and apparatus for harnessing power associated with ocean waves and converting that power into electricity. The apparatus is a buoy that houses a vertically oriented central shaft, a pendulum, and a generator. As the buoy tilts from the vertical under the influence of wave motion, the pendulum is accelerated and rotates about the central shaft. A centrally-placed generator is mechanically coupled to, and driven by, the rotating pendulum so that the pendulum's kinetic energy is converted into electricity. The electricity may be stored at or near the buoy or transferred to a remote facility. Moreover, a fin array located along the bottom of the buoy serves as an anti-torque mechanism and improves the operational efficiency of the electricity production. The method involves employing use of the centrally located generator and the fin array to efficiently harness wave power.

대표청구항 ▼

The invention claimed is: 1. An apparatus for converting wave energy into electrical energy comprising:a buoyant member comprising:a pendulum configured to rotate under the influence of wave motion;a generator configured to generate electricity by converting energy associated with said rotating pend

The invention claimed is: 1. An apparatus for converting wave energy into electrical energy comprising:a buoyant member comprising:a pendulum configured to rotate under the influence of wave motion;a generator configured to generate electricity by converting energy associated with said rotating pendulum; anda mooring line extending between said buoyant member and a counterweight; anda ring of sufficient size to allow said mooring line to move laterally and rotate within said ring and to prevent said counterweight from passing there through.