WO2025208175A1

WO2025208175A1 - Oscillating mass engine assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2025208175A1
Application number: PCT/AU2025/050313
Authority: WO
Inventors: Douglas Richard ENGLISH
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2024-04-05
Filing date: 2025-04-02
Publication date: 2025-10-09
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-05

Abstract

Provided is an oscillating mass engine assembly (10) comprising first and second elongate driveshafts (12) and (14) mounted in parallel and rotatably coupled via a power takeoff gear (16) on each driveshaft. Also included is at least one oscillatable mass (20) arranged to oscillate substantially transversely to said elongate driveshafts (12) and (14), and first and second ratchet mechanisms (30) and (32) about the first and second driveshafts (12) and (14), respectively, the oscillatable mass (20) engaged with the first and second ratchet mechanisms (30) and (32) that are configured such that displacement of the oscillatable mass (20) in a first direction applies torque to the first driveshaft (12) only, and displacement of the oscillatable mass (20) in an opposite direction applies torque to the second driveshaft (14) only. Also included is an energy capture and storage assembly (58) coupled with at least one power takeoff gear (16) and configured to capture and store rotational mechanical energy from said power takeoff gear (16). In such a manner, oscillation of the at least one mass (20) under external influence enables energy harvesting.

Description

OSCILLATING MASS ENGINE ASSEMBLY

TECHNICAL FIELD

[ 0001 ] This invention relates broadly to the field of renewable energy and energy harvesting, in general , and more particularly to an oscillating mass engine assembly, a vehicle comprising such an oscillating mass engine assembly and an associated method of harvesting motion energy .

BACKGROUND ART

[ 0002 ] The following discussion of the background art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the present invention only . The discus sion is not an acknowledgement or admission that any of the material referred to is or was part of the common general knowledge as at the priority date of the application .

[ 0003 ] Broadly, renewable energy is energy derived from natural sources that are generally replenished at a higher rate than they are consumed . One example of such natural energy is wave power, which involves capturing of energy of waves to do useful work, such as electricity generation, water desalination, pumping water, or the like . Waves are generated primarily by wind passing over the surface of a body of water and also by tidal forces , temperature variations , and other factors . As long as the waves propagate slower than the wind speed j ust above , energy is trans ferred from the wind to the waves .

[ 0004 ] Marine vessels , such as boats and ships are inherently subj ect to wave power when travelling . However, Applicant has identi fied that marine vessels , as well as other vehicles , such as terrestrial vehicles and aircraft , also experience external forces that often produce secondary movement , such as wave motion, air turbulence , travelling over uneven surfaces , or the like . [0005] Accordingly, being able to harvest even a small percentage of secondary kinetic energy, such as movement of a vehicle secondary to a primary direction of travel, or a marine vessel experiencing waves, would result in significant benefit over time. For example, a boat or ship at anchor or travelling on water experiences side-to-side and/or up-and-down motion due to wave interaction which is not generally associated with a primary direction of forward travel; and a car, truck or motorcycle travelling on a rougher surface, such as a bumpy road, may experience significant up-and-down motion which is again not associated with a primary direction of forward (or reverse, where relevant) travel.

[0006] As is conventionally known in the art, a so-called kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) is generally an automotive system for recovering a moving vehicle's kinetic energy under braking, being of course deceleration associated with a primary direction of travel, rather than secondary movement. Such braking energy recovered via conventional KERSs is generally stored in a reservoir, such as a flywheel or battery, for later use, such as when accelerating.

[0007] In light of the above, Applicant has identified an opportunity for not only harvesting energy associated with a primary direction when a vehicle is braking, as is done with KERS, but also harvesting such secondary kinetic energy resulting from external influences and/or secondary motion typically produced by primary motive energy used to drive or actuate a vehicle. For example, it is estimated that only around 14-30% of the energy from fuel, such as petrol or diesel, is used to move an internal combustion engine vehicle, i.e. energy required to facilitate a primary direction of travel, with the rest of the energy lost due to engine inefficiencies and powering accessories. Similarly, marine vessels may experience significant secondary motion due to wave energy. The current invention was conceived with the goal in mind of harvesting such secondary kinetic energy of a vehicle , as well as associated stationary installation for harvesting wave power .

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[ 0008 ] The skilled addressee is to appreciate that reference herein to an ' engine ' broadly comprises reference to a mechanical device or similar contrivance which converts one form of energy into useful motion or physical ef fects , typically obtainable from a suitable power take-of f , or ' PTO' , as will be appreciated by the skilled addressee .

[ 0009 ] Accordingly, reference herein to a power take-of f or power takeof f ( PTO) includes broad reference to any suitable mechanism or arrangement for taking power from a power source or engine , as will become apparent to the skilled addressee in light of the present disclosure .

[ 0010 ] Similarly, reference herein to a 'vehicle ' is made in a broad and exclusive sense to any conveyance configured for transporting people or obj ects and may include a car, a truck, a motorcycle , a bicycle , marine vessels such as a boat or ship, or the like .

[ 0011 ] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an oscillating mass engine assembly comprising : first and second elongate driveshafts mounted in parallel and rotatably coupled via a power takeof f gear on each driveshaft ; at least one oscillatable mass arranged to oscillate substantially transversely to said elongate driveshafts ; first and second ratchet mechanisms about the first and second driveshafts , respectively, the oscillatable mass engaged with the first and second ratchet mechanisms that are configured such that displacement of the oscillatable mass in a first direction applies torque to the first driveshaft only, and displacement of the oscillatable mas s in an opposite direction applies torque to the second driveshaft only; and an energy capture and storage assembly coupled with at least one power takeof f gear and configured to capture and store rotational mechanical energy from said power takeof f gear, wherein oscillation of the mass under external influence enables energy harvesting .

[ 0012 ] In an embodiment , the oscillatable mass comprises a pendulum pivotably arranged proximate the first and second driveshafts .

[ 0013 ] In an embodiment , the oscillatable mass is slidably arranged proximate the first and second driveshafts .

[ 0014 ] In an embodiment , the oscillatable mass comprises a float configured to be oscillated by wave motion, in use .

[ 0015 ] In an embodiment , the oscillating mass engine assembly comprises at least one drive arm with the oscillatable mass arranged at a distal end and a proximal end bi furcated into pivotable first and second link arms , wherein the first link arm is coupled to the first ratchet mechanism and the second link arm is coupled to the second ratchet mechanism, so that the distal end of said drive arm extends laterally from said first and second driveshafts .

[ 0016 ] In an embodiment , the oscillatable the mass is pivotably mounted to the distal end of the drive arm by means of a suitable gudgeon and pivot pin .

[ 0017 ] In an embodiment , the at least one drive arm is arranged substantially transverse to the driveshafts . [0018] In an embodiment, the at least one drive arm is arcuate to provide mechanical advantage between the mass at the distal end and the driveshafts at the proximal end.

[0019] In an embodiment, the at least on drive arm defines a circular drive gear at the proximal end thereof, an arm shaft passing through a centre of said circular drive gear, the arm shaft functioning as an oscillating pivot for the at least one drive arm.

[0020] In an embodiment, the first or second geared ratchet mechanism is arranged at the centre of the circular drive gear of the at least one drive arm.

[0021] In an embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly comprises at least two drive arms, each laterally arranged at opposite sides of the driveshafts.

[0022] In an embodiment, the proximal end of the drive arm is bifurcated by comprising the first link arm linked to the second link arm by means of a linkage pivotably coupled to each link arm via a link arm pin.

[0023] In an embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly includes a mass guide configured to guide displacement of the oscillatable mass during oscillation thereof between the first and opposite directions.

[0024] In an embodiment, the mass guide comprises a cylinder within which the oscillatable mass is slidably arranged similar to a piston and cylinder arrangement.

[0025] In an embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly comprises a biasing element configured to bias the oscillatable to a predetermined position. [0026] In an embodiment, the biasing element is selectable and/or configurable so that a biasing force applied to the oscillatable mass is user-selectable.

[0027] In an embodiment, the biasing element is selectable and/or configurable so that a biasing force applied to the mass is determined by a mass of said oscillatable mass and/or characteristics of the external influence.

[0028] In an embodiment, the first and second driveshafts are mounted side-by-side or parallel by means of at least one support block .

[0029] In an embodiment, the driveshafts pass through the at least one support block supported by means of suitable bearings, such as ring bearings, to facilitate rotation of the drive shafts.

[0030] In an embodiment, the drive shafts are directly rotatably coupled by means of at least one power takeoff gear, such as a spur gear, each gear coaxially arranged on and along a length of the respective driveshafts, said gears meshing to rotatably coupling the driveshafts.

[0031] In an embodiment, the ratchet mechanism comprises a ratchet wheel coaxially arranged about a driveshaft, with a suitable pawl to allow unimpeded rotation of the ratchet wheel in one direction only.

[0032] In an embodiment, the energy capture and storage assembly comprises a flywheel for capturing and storing mechanical energy from the power takeoff gear.

[0033] In an embodiment, the energy capture and storage assembly comprises an electrical generator with electrical and/or chemical energy storage for capturing and storing mechanical energy from the power takeoff gear.

[0034] In an embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly includes a housing for housing the driveshafts, drive arm(s) , mass (es) and energy capture and storage assembly in a unitary manner, said housing configured for mounting to a vehicle to maximise oscillation of the mass (es) under external influence as the vehicle travels in a primary direction of travel.

[0035] In an embodiment, the energy capture and storage assembly is configured to integrate with a powertrain of the vehicle to transfer harvested energy thereto.

[0036] In an embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly includes a housing for housing the driveshafts, drive arm(s) , mass (es) and energy capture and storage assembly in a substantially unitary manner, said housing configured for mounting proximate a body of water so that said mass (es) is exposed to, and for subsequent harvesting of, wave energy.

[0037] According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a vehicle comprising an oscillating mass engine assembly in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

[0038] According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided method of harvesting motion energy, said method comprising the steps of: arranging, in a vehicle and/or proximate a body of water, an oscillating mass engine assembly in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; and harvesting energy from at least one power takeoff gear thereof . [ 0039 ] According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided an oscil lating mass engine assembly, a vehicle comprising an oscillating mass engine assembly and an associated method of harvesting motion energy, substantially as herein described and/or illustrated .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description will be made with reference to the accompanying drawings in which :

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of one embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of another embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figures 3A and 3B are diagrammatic front-view representations of the oscillating mass engine assembly of Figure 2 , in operation converting wave motion to mechanical energy;

Figure 4A and 4B are diagrammatic front-view representations of the oscillating mass engine assembly of Figure 2 , in operation converting wave motion to mechanical energy;

Figure 5 is a diagrammatic front-view representation of another embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 6 is a diagrammatic perspective-view representation of a further embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; and

Figure 7 is a diagrammatic rear-view representation of another embodiment of the oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention, wherein link arms have been replaced with suitably-configured ratchet mechanisms ; Figure 8 is a diagrammatic perspective overview representation o f a vehicle , being a boat , having one embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly mounted therein;

Figure 9 is a diagrammatic perspective overview representation of a boat having another embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly mounted therein;

Figure 10 is a diagrammatic perspective overview representation of another embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention ;

Figure 11 is diagrammatic perspective overview representation of a boat having an example of the oscillating mass engine assembly of Figure 11 mounted thereto ;

Figure 12 is diagrammatic perspective overview representation of another embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 13 is diagrammatic perspective overview representation of another embodiment of an oscillating mass engine assembly, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 14 is a diagrammatic perspective overview representation o f a car having a vehicle oscillating mass engine assembly mounted thereto ;

Figure 15 is a diagrammatic side-view representation of a car having a vehicle oscillating mass engine assembly integrated into a powertrain thereof ; and

Figure 16 is a diagrammatic side-view representation of a motorcycle having a vehicle oscillating mass engine assembly integrated into a powertrain thereof .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[ 0040 ] Further features of the present invention are more fully described in the following description of several non-limiting embodiments thereof . This description is included solely for the purposes of exempli fying the present invention to the skilled addressee . It should not be understood as a restriction on the broad summary, disclosure or description of the invention as set out above .

[ 0041 ] In the figures , incorporated to illustrate features of the example embodiment or embodiments , like reference numerals are used to identi fy like parts throughout . Additionally, features , mechanisms and aspects well-known and understood in the art will not be described in detail , as such features , mechanisms and aspects will be within the understanding of the skilled addressee .

[ 0042 ] Additionally, the accompanying figures do not represent engineering or design drawings , but provide a functional overview of the invention only . As a result , features and practical construction details required for various embodiments may not be indicated in each figure , but such construction requirements will be within the understanding of the skilled addressee .

[ 0043 ] Broadly, the present invention provides for an oscillating mass engine assembly 10 configured for harvesting wave energy and/or secondary kinetic energy resulting from secondary motion typically produced by primary motive energy used to drive or actuate a vehicle , e . g . a boat or ship travelling on water experiencing up-and-down motion due to wave interaction which is not generally associated with a primary direction of forward travel , a marine vessel at anchor experiencing wave motion, a car, truck or motorcycle travelling on a rougher surface , such as a bumpy road, or the like .

[ 0044 ] Referring now to the accompanying figures , there is exempli fied various di f ferent embodiments of such an oscillating mass engine assembly 10 , which broadly comprises first and second elongate driveshafts 12 and 14 , at least one oscillatable mass 20 , first and second ratchet mechanisms 30 and 32 , and an energy capture and storage assembly 58 . [ 0045 ] The oscillating mass engine assembly 10 typically includes the first and second elongate driveshafts 12 and 14 that are mounted in parallel , or substantially side-by-side , and which are rotatably coupled via a power takeof f gear 16 on each driveshaft 12 and 14 , as shown . The skilled addressee is to appreciate that the driveshafts 12 and 14 need not necessarily be mounted in exact parallel , but that variations in the respective orientations of the driveshafts 12 and 14 are possible . Accordingly, the driveshafts 12 and 14 are typically mounted to be substantially parallel in at least one plane in three-dimensional space for mechanical and/or construction ef ficiency, but variations hereon are possible and expected .

[ 0046 ] In one embodiment , the first and second driveshafts 12 and 14 are mounted side-by-side by means of at least one support block 40 . In one embodiment , the driveshafts 12 and 14 pass through the at least one support block 40 supported by means of suitable bearings 42 , such as ring bearings , to facilitate rotation of the driveshafts 12 and 14 . Alternatively, as shown in Figures 5 and 7 , the driveshafts 12 and 14 may al so be arranged one of top of the other, or the like . Such variations in relative positions and orientations of the driveshafts 12 and 14 are design choices without departing from the operational functionality or mechanical equivalence of the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 , as described herein .

[ 0047 ] The oscillating mass engine assembly 10 also includes at least one (but typically a plurality of ) oscillatable mass ( es ) 20 which is arranged to oscillate substantially transversely to said elongate driveshafts 12 and 14 , as shown . Importantly, such oscillatable mass 20 may take a variety of forms , as shown in the figures . For example , in one embodiment , the oscillatable mass 20 comprises a pendulum pivotably arranged proximate the first and second driveshafts 12 and 14 . In one embodiment , the oscillatable mass 20 is slidably arranged proximate the first and second driveshafts 12 and 14 . In one embodiment , the oscillatable mass 20 comprises a float configured to be oscillated by wave motion, in use .

[ 0048 ] In one embodiment , the driveshafts 12 and 14 are directly rotatably coupled by means of PTO gears 16 , such as spur gears , each coaxially arranged on a respective driveshaft 12 and 14 , as shown . The respective gears PTO 16 are generally arranged to mesh along a length of the driveshafts 12 and 14 . For example , the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 may comprise a plurality of meshing gears 16 arranged at intervals along the lengths of the driveshafts 12 and 14 , and may also include a plurality of spaced apart support blocks 40 in order to support such driveshafts 12 and 14 . In the exempli fied embodiment , the gears PTO 16 are arranged at ends of the driveshafts 12 and 14 , but variations hereon are possible and anticipated .

[ 0049 ] In one embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 further typically includes at least one drive arm 18 comprising the mass 20 arranged at a distal end 22 of said arm 18 . In one embodiment , the mass 20 is pivotably mounted to the distal end 22 of the drive arm 18 by means of a suitable gudgeon and pivot pin 34 , but of course variations hereon are possible and expected .

[ 0050 ] Additionally, a proximal end 24 of said drive arm 18 is bi furcated into first and second link arms 26 and 28 , as shown . Such bi furcation of the proximal end 24 may take various forms . For example , in one embodiment , the proximal end 24 of the drive arm 18 is bi furcated by comprising the first link arm 26 linked to the second link arm 28 by means of a linkage 36 pivotably coupled to each link arm via a link arm pin 38 . Importantly, the link arms 26 and 28 are pivotably-coupled together to allow relative displacement to each other as the drive arm 18 oscillates and the link arms 26 and 28 are coupled to the respective driveshafts 12 and 14 . [ 0051 ] In a typical embodiment, the at least one drive arm 18 is arranged substantially transverse to the driveshafts 12 and 14 , as shown . In a preferred embodiment , the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 generally comprises at least two drive arms 18 , each laterally arranged at opposite sides of the driveshafts 12 and 14 . For example , as shown in Figure 5 , the wave energy assembly 10 may be of indeterminable length, requirements dependent , where a large number of oppositely-arranged drive arms 18 are present and coupled to the respective driveshafts 12 and 14 . In one embodiment , the at least one drive arm 18 is arcuate , i . e . bowed in an upward or downward direction, to provide mechanical advantage between the float 20 at the distal end 22 and the driveshafts 12 and 14 at the proximal end 24 . Such arcuity for mechanical advantage via leverage is a design choice dependent on fluid wave motion, as will be appreciated by the skilled addressee .

[ 0052 ] Importantly, the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 further includes first and second ratchet mechanisms 30 and 32 that are arranged about the first and second driveshafts 12 and 14 , respectively . The oscillatable mass 20 is complementarily engaged with the first and second ratchet mechanisms 30 and 32 depending on the type or configuration of the oscillatable mass 20 , i . e . floats on drive arms 18 , slidable mass 20 , pendulum mass 20 , or the like . Critically, the first and second ratchet mechanisms 30 and 32 are configured such that displacement of the oscillatable mass 20 in a first direction applies torque to the first driveshaft 12 only, and displacement of the oscillatable mass 20 in an opposite direction applies torque to the second driveshaft only 14 . In one embodiment , the ratchet mechanism 30 and 32 comprises a ratchet wheel coaxially arranged about a driveshaft 12 or 14 , with a suitable pawl to allow unimpeded rotation of the ratchet wheel in one direction only .

[ 0053 ] Accordingly, it is to be appreciated that the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 relies on a particular configuration and interaction between the described constituent parts in order to function . For example , in an embodiment relying on the drive arms 18 with masses 20 at the distal ends of said drive arms 18 , the first link arm 26 is coupled to the first ratchet mechanism 30 , and the second link arm 28 is coupled to the second ratchet mechanism 32 . Importantly, the ratchet mechanisms 30 and 32 are configured such that displacement of the mass 20 , and thus the drive arm 18 , in a first direction, such as upwards , applies torque to the first driveshaft 12 only, and displacement of the mass 20 in an opposite direction, such as downwards , applies torque to the second driveshaft 14 only .

[ 0054 ] For example , as shown in Figures 3 , i f a drive arm 18 on the left moves upwards , the first ratchet mechanism 30 locks in place so that the first link arm 26 applies a torque to the first drive shaft 12 , while the second ratchet mechanism 32 turns freely and the second link arm 28 does not apply any torque to the second drive shaft 14 . Conversely, i f the drive arm 18 on the left moves downwards , the first ratchet mechanism 30 turns freely so that the first link arm 26 does not apply a torque to the first drive shaft 12 , while the second ratchet mechanism 32 locks in place and the second link arm 28 applies a torque to the second drive shaft 14 . Similarly, this action is repeated for the drive arm on the right , as shown in Figure 4 .

[ 0055 ] In this manner, oscillation of the mass 20 enables the PTO gear 16 to function as a power take-of f for converted motion energy, such as via waves interacting with floats 20 . The respective PTO gears 16 intermesh and this ' turns onto ' each other, so that respective oscillations of the masses 20 upwards and downwards imparts torque onto the respective driveshafts 12 and 14 . The oscillating mass engine assembly 10 also allows customisation according to requirements . For example , by extending an indeterminable length of the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 , as shown in Figure 6 , signi ficant wave motion energy over a surface of a body of water can be harvested as rotational mechanical energy, or the like . As the various drive arms 18 are decoupled from each other, oscillations can occur independently from each other .

[ 0056 ] With reference now to Figure 7 of the accompanying drawings , there is exempli fied an alternative embodiment of the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 . In such an embodiment , while the general operation of the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 described above remains substantially similar, the bi furcated proximal end 24 of each drive arm 18 has been replaced with a circular drive gear 44 , as shown, which engages or meshes with corresponding geared first and second ratchet mechanisms 48 and 50 arranged about respective first and second driveshafts 12 and 14 .

[ 0057 ] In such an embodiment , the drive arm 18 does not bi furcate into link arms 26 and 28 , as with the embodiment described above . Instead, such link arms 26 and 28 have been replaced with circular drive gear 44 at the proximal end 24 of each drive arm 18 , along with geared first and second ratchet mechanisms 48 and 50 arranged about respective driveshafts , as shown . Typically, the first and second geared ratchet mechanisms 48 and 50 comprise a geared ratchet wheel coaxially arranged about a driveshaft , with a suitable pawl to allow unimpeded rotation of the geared ratchet wheel in one direction only .

[ 0058 ] In the exempli fied embodiment , the driveshafts 12 and 14 are arranged one on top of the other, as shown, with the at least on drive arm 18 defining the circular drive gear 44 at the proximal end 24 thereof , and an arm shaft 46 passing through a centre of said circular drive gear 44 . This arm shaft 46 functions as an oscillating pivot for the at least one drive arm 18 . The arm shaft 46 is typically mounted to the support block 40 ( or similar support ) by means of suitable bearings to facilitate free oscillation of the at least one drive arm 18 . [ 0059 ] Importantly, however, variations hereon are possible , as will be appreciated by the skilled addressee . For example , in an embodiment where the driveshafts 12 and 14 are arranged in a side- by-side manner, as per the example of Figure 1 , the at least one drive arm 18 , which defines the circular drive gear 44 at the proximal end 28 thereof , may be supported in position by either of the first or second driveshafts 12 or 14 passing through the centre of said circular drive gear 44 , i . e . the driveshafts 12 or 14 form the arm shaft 46 on which the respective drive arms 18 are mounted .

[ 0060 ] In such an embodiment , the first or second geared ratchet mechanism 48 or 50 is arranged at the centre of the circular drive gear 44 of the at least one drive arm 18 , i . e . a geared ratchet mechanism is located at the centre of the circular drive gear 44 and mounts the drive arm 18 onto the driveshaft 12 or 14 . In this manner, the respective driveshaft with ' internal ' geared ratchet mechanism functions as an oscillating pivot for the at least one drive arm . Such an arrangement removes the need for additional arm shafts 46 as well as link arms and may simpli fy manufacture and robustness of the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 . In one embodiment , the drive gear 44 of the drive arm 18 has a larger diameter than the PTO gears 16 with which said drive gear 44 is meshed, i . e . a gear ratio to provide mechanical advantage . Such a configuration may provide an 'overdrive ' gear ratio , where oscillation of the drive arm 18 turns the PTO gears 16 at a higher angular velocity than the drive gear 44 , providing mechanical advantage .

[ 0061 ] As described, in one embodiment , the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 is typically mountable to a vehicle 8 and configured to harvest secondary kinetic energy generally resulting from movement of the vehicle 8 secondary to a primary direction of travel . For example , while a vehicle 8 is travelling in one direction, up-and-down motions resulting from an uneven surface , or from wave action i f travelling on water, or the like , may be harvested via arrangement 10. In one embodiment, the mass (es) 20 may be directly linked to wheels, and axle, suspension components or the like of a vehicle. Such harvested energy may be transferred back into a powertrain 60 of the vehicle 8, or may be used for other purposes, as will become apparent to the skilled addressee in light of the following disclosure.

[0062] The accompanying figures show various embodiments of vehicles 8, including a boat, car and motorcycle, which includes different embodiment of the oscillating mass engine assembly 10. Typically, the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 is housed in a unitary manner within a housing 52 mounted to said vehicle 8 to maximise oscillation of the mass (es) 20 under external influence, as described in more detail below, as the vehicle 8 travels in a primary direction of travel. To this end, in one embodiment, the housing 52 is typically mounted such that the driveshafts 12 and 14 are parallel or aligned with the primary direction of travel. In one embodiment, the housing 52 is mounted such that the drive arm(s) 18 are transverse to the primary direction of travel. Such orientation of mounting may maximise energy harvesting as described in more detail below. The housing 52 may comprise a sealed unit and may even be vacuumized to minimise air resistance on the masses 20 as they oscillate, or the like.

[0063] In one embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 further includes a mass guide 54 which is configured to guide displacement of the mass 20 during oscillation thereof between first and opposite directions, e.g. up and down, etc., but variations hereon are possible and anticipated. In one embodiment, an example of which is shown in Figure 12, the mass guide 54 comprises a cylinder within which the mass 20 is slidably arranged similar to a piston and cylinder arrangement.

[0064] In one embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly

10 comprises a biasing element 56, such as a spring, which is configured to bias the mass 20 to a predetermined position . For example , in the exempli fied embodiments , the biasing elements 56 of the various masses 20 are configured to bias the masses 20 to an upwards position so that up-and-down movements of the vehicle 8 provides external influence to actuate the masses 20 downwards and against the applied bias . In one embodiment , the biasing element 56 is selectable and/or configurable so that a biasing force applied to the mass 20 is user-selectable . In one embodiment , the biasing element 56 is selectable and/or configurable so that a biasing force applied to the mass 20 is determined by a mass of said mass and/or characteristics of the external influence , such as expected wave si ze , unevenness or bumpiness of surface travelled, or the like .

[ 0065 ] For example, a boat may experience external influence due to wave action that requires a di f ferent bias than a rally car or motocross motorcycle travelling at high speed over rough terrain . By selecting and/or configuring the biasing element 56 and mass 20 in a complementary manner, energy harvesting via the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 may be maximised according to an external influence experienced by the vehicle 8 .

[ 0066 ] In a typical embodiment , the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 comprises a plurality of drive arms 18 arranged at opposite sides of the driveshafts 12 and 14 . In particular, the number of drive arms 18 are indeterminate and may depend on available space and requirements , as will be appreciated by the skilled addressee . In one embodiment , the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 comprises at least two drive arms 18 , each laterally arranged at opposite sides of the driveshafts 12 and 14 . Of course , the oscillating mass engine assembly 10

[ 0067 ] In such a manner , by arranging the oscillatable masses 20 and/or drive arms 18 with masses 20 , and driveshafts 12 and 14 to maximise oscillation of the masses 20 under external influence , energy harvesting via the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 may be maximised according to an external influence experienced by the vehicle 8 . For example , by arranging the drive arms 18 with masses 20 , and driveshafts 12 and 14 accordingly, osci llation o f the masses 20 may be maximised when a vehicle experiences up-and-down external influence travelling on a bumpy surface , or due to wave action when travelling on water, or the like .

[ 0068 ] In one embodiment, the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 may be configured to harvest wave energy, such as a stationary installation on, for example, a j etty, boardwalk or headland proximate a body of water, or the like , so that said mass ( es ) or float ( s ) 20 is exposed to wave energy . Similarly, a marine vessel experiencing wave motion independent of a primary direction of travel , such as when at anchor, may still experience wave motion and the assembly 10 can harvest such energy accordingly .

[ 0069 ] The oscillating mass engine assembly 10 further includes an energy capture and storage assembly 58 which is coupled with at least one power takeof f gear 16 and is configured to capture and store mechanical energy from said at least one power takeof f gear 16 as the driveshafts 12 and 14 rotate under the influence of the oscillating masses 20 . In such a manner, oscillation of the masses 20 under external influence as the vehicle 8 travels in a primary direction of travel enables energy harvesting . In one embodiment , the energy capture and storage assembly 58 is integrated with a powertrain 60 of the vehicle 8 to trans fer harvested energy thereto . Of course , harvested energy may also be used elsewhere . Conventional practices of energy generation from mechanical sources are well-established and within the understanding of the skilled addressee and will not be described in detail herein .

[ 0070 ] In one embodiment , the energy capture and storage assembly 58 comprises a flywheel for capturing and storing mechanical energy from the power takeof f gear 16 , as shown in Figure 13 . In another embodiment , the energy capture and storage assembly 58 may comprise an electrical generator with electrical and/or chemical energy storage for capturing and storing mechanical energy from the power takeof f gear 16. For example , a battery or capacitor may be charged with electrical energy converted from mechanical energy from the power takeof f gear 16 . Such generator assemblies are known in the art and will not be described in detail herein .

[ 0071 ] The skilled addressee is to appreciate that variations in the mechanical configurations are possible to suit di f ferent situations . For example , the embodiment of Figures 10 and 11 show a boat with the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 wherein the masses 20 comprise sponsons positioned outboard of the boat and can even be configured to interact the top of water swells without being permanently engaged with the water, or even to be permanently engaged with the water to harvest wave energy as well as up-and- down motion of the boat 8 travelling on the water . In this embodiment , the mass guide 54 comprises spars rotatably fast with a hull of the boat and the masses 20 to allow the front sponsons to be very securely mounted to the hull . In contrast , for example , the embodiment of Figure 9 shows a boat with the masses 20 mounted internal to the vessel without any water interaction .

[ 0072 ] The various components of the wave energy assembly 10 may be manufactured from di f ferent materials . For example , to withstand harsh marine environments , a marine-grade steel can be used, or a suitable high-density polymer, or the like . Similarly, dimensions and scale of the various described constituent parts may vary, according to design requirements .

[ 0073 ] The skilled addressee is to appreciate that the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 described herein may be used to harvest secondary kinetic energy resulting from a vehicle ' s motion, and/or for harvesting fluid motion energy, such as from waves in a body of water . As a harvester of secondary kinetic energy and/or wave energy, the assembly 10 may also be employed to function as a motive contrivance to power a vessel , i . e . integrate with a powertrain 60 to provide harvested energy for primary motion .

[ 0074 ] In other embodiment , the PTO of the oscillating mass engine assembly 10 may be used as a power input to turn a propeller of a marine craft , or the like . Similarly, where rotational energy is provided to the PTO gears 16 , the masses 20 may be replaced with suitable fins or similar hydrofoils in order to propel a marine vessel , or the like . For example , a small water craft may comprise a person pedalling to turn or rotate the PTO gears 16 so that suitable fins or hydrofoils on the distal end of the drive arms 18 propel the craft , or the like .

[ 0075 ] Applicant believes it particularly advantageous that the present invention provides for an oscillating mass engine assembly 10 that is configured to harvest energy from wave motion and can be si zed and configured to suit available space and waves . The oscillating mass engine assembly 10 is also generally independent on variability in wave amplitudes in large bodies of water and extreme wave forces , as the masses 20 acting as floats and drive arms 18 may be configured to have signi ficant ranges of motion without negatively af fecting operation of the assembly 10 . Applicant believes it particularly advantageous that the present invention provides for an oscillating mass engine assembly 10 whereby harvesting of secondary kinetic energy resulting from vehicle motion is facilitated .

[ 0076 ] In the example embodiments , well-known processes , well- known device structures , and well-known technologies are not described in detail , as such will be readily understood by the skilled addressee . Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts , elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features. Where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0077] It is to be appreciated that reference to "one example" or "an example" of the invention, or similar exemplary language (e.g., "such as") herein, is not made in an exclusive sense. Various substantially and specifically practical and useful exemplary embodiments of the claimed subject matter are described herein, textually and/or graphically, for carrying out the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, one example may exemplify certain aspects of the invention, whilst other aspects are exemplified in a different example. These examples are intended to assist the skilled person in performing the invention and are not intended to limit the overall scope of the invention in any way unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0078] Variations (e.g. modifications and/or enhancements) of one or more embodiments described herein might become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. The inventor (s) expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventor (s) intends for the claimed subject matter to be practiced other than as specifically described herein.

[0079] The use of the terms "a", "an", "said", "the", and/or similar referents in the context of describing various embodiments (especially in the context of the claimed subject matter) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms "comprising, " "having, " "including, " and "containing" are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to,") unless otherwise noted. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed subject matter as essential to the practice of the claimed subject matter.

[0080] Spatially relative terms, such as "inner, " "outer, " "beneath, " "below, " "lower, " "above, " "upper, " and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element (s) or feature (s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the contrivance in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the example term "below" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The contrivance may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly .

Claims

1 . An oscillating mass engine assembly comprising : first and second elongate driveshafts mounted in parallel and rotatably coupled via a power takeof f gear on each driveshaft ; at least one oscillatable mass arranged to oscillate substantially transversely to said elongate driveshafts ; first and second ratchet mechanisms about the first and second driveshafts , respectively, the oscillatable mass engaged with the first and second ratchet mechanisms that are configured such that displacement of the oscillatable mass in a first direction applies torque to the first driveshaft only, and displacement of the oscillatable mass in an opposite direction applies torque to the second driveshaft only; and an energy capture and storage assembly coupled with at least one power takeof f gear and configured to capture and store rotational mechanical energy from said power takeof f gear, wherein oscillation of the mass under external influence enables energy harvesting .

2 . The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the oscillatable mass comprises a pendulum pivotably arranged proximate the first and second driveshafts .

3 . The assembly of either of claims 1 or 2 , wherein the oscillatable mass is slidably arranged proximate the first and second driveshafts .

4 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the oscillatable mass comprises a float configured to be oscillated by wave motion, in use .

5 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 4 , which comprises at least one drive arm with the oscillatable mass arranged at a distal end and a proximal end bi furcated into pivotable first and second link arms , wherein the first link arm is coupled to the first ratchet mechanism and the second link arm is coupled to the second ratchet mechanism, so that the distal end of said drive arm extends laterally from said first and second driveshafts .

6 . The assembly of claim 5 , wherein the oscillatable the mass is pivotably mounted to the distal end of the drive arm by means of a suitable gudgeon and pivot pin .

7 . The assembly of either of claims 5 or 6 , wherein the at least one drive arm is arranged substantially transverse to the driveshafts .

8 . The assembly of any of claims 5 to 7 , wherein the at least one drive arm is arcuate to provide mechanical advantage between the mass at the distal end and the driveshafts at the proximal end .

9 . The assembly of any of claims 5 to 8 , wherein the at least on drive arm defines a circular drive gear at the proximal end thereof , an arm shaft passing through a centre of said circular drive gear, the arm shaft functioning as an oscillating pivot for the at least one drive arm .

10 . The assembly of any of claims 5 to 9 , wherein the first or second geared ratchet mechanism is arranged at the centre of the circular drive gear of the at least one drive arm .

11 . The assembly of any of claims 5 to 10 , which comprises at least two drive arms , each laterally arranged at opposite sides of the driveshafts .

12 . The assembly of any of claims 5 to 11 , wherein the proximal end of the drive arm is bi furcated by comprising the first link arm l inked to the second link arm by means of a linkage pivotably coupled to each link arm via a link arm pin .

13 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 12 , which includes a mass guide configured to guide displacement of the oscillatable mass during oscillation thereof between the first and opposite directions .

14 . The assembly of claim 13 , wherein the mass guide comprises a cylinder within which the oscillatable mass is slidably arranged similar to a piston and cylinder arrangement .

15 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 14 , which comprises a biasing element configured to bias the oscillatable mass to a predetermined position .

16 . The assembly of claim 15 , wherein the biasing element is selectable and/or configurable so that a biasing force applied to the oscillatable mass is user-selectable .

17 . The assembly of either of claims 15 or 16 , wherein the biasing element is selectable and/or configurable so that a biasing force applied to the oscillatable mass is determined by a mass of said mass and/or characteristics of the external influence .

18 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 17 , wherein the first and second driveshafts are mounted side-by-side or parallel by means of at least one support block .

19 . The assembly of claim 18 , wherein the driveshafts pass through the at least one support block supported by means of suitable bearings , such as ring bearings , to facilitate rotation of the drive shafts .

20 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 19 , wherein the drive shafts are directly rotatably coupled by means of at least one power takeof f gear, such as a spur gear, each gear coaxially arranged on and along a length of the respective driveshafts , said gears meshing to rotatably couple the driveshafts .

21 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 20 , wherein the ratchet mechanism comprises a ratchet wheel coaxially arranged about a driveshaft , with a suitable pawl to allow unimpeded rotation of the ratchet wheel in one direction only .

22 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 21 , wherein the energy capture and storage assembly comprises a flywheel for capturing and storing mechanical energy from the power takeof f gear .

23 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 22 , wherein the energy capture and storage assembly comprises an electrical generator with electrical and/or chemical energy storage for capturing and storing mechanical energy from the power takeof f gear .

24 . The assembly of any of claims 1 to 23 , which includes a housing for housing the driveshafts , ratchet mechanisms , mass ( es ) and energy capture and storage assembly in a unitary manner, said housing configured for mounting to a vehicle to maximise oscillation of the mass (es) under external influence as the vehicle travels in a primary direction of travel.

25. The assembly of claim 24, wherein the energy capture and storage assembly is configured to integrate with a powertrain of the vehicle to transfer harvested energy thereto.

26. The assembly of any of claims 1 to 23, which includes a housing for housing the driveshafts, drive arm(s) , mass (es) and energy capture and storage assembly in a substantially unitary manner, said housing configured for mounting proximate a body of water so that said mass (es) is exposed to, and for subsequent harvesting of, wave energy.

27. A vehicle comprising an oscillating mass engine assembly in accordance with any of claims 1 to 25.

28. A method of harvesting motion energy, said method comprising the steps of: arranging, in a vehicle and/or proximate a body of water, an oscillating mass engine assembly in accordance with any of claims 1 to 26; and harvesting energy from at least one power takeoff gear thereof .