WO2025219996A1

WO2025219996A1 - Harvesting energy from wave motion

Info

Publication number: WO2025219996A1
Application number: PCT/IL2025/050311
Authority: WO
Inventors: Oria ITZHAK; Israel OMRI; Shimon MIMOUN
Original assignee: SWE
Current assignee: SWE
Priority date: 2024-04-15
Filing date: 2025-04-08
Publication date: 2025-10-23
Anticipated expiration: 2026-10-15
Also published as: IL312162A

Abstract

An energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system including a plurality of floating modules configured to float on a body of water, at least one side of a first floating module includes a unidirectional engagement mechanism configured to interact with a rotational mechanism included in a side of a second, neighboring floating module to produce rotational motion of a pulley in the second floating module, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the first floating module and the rotational mechanism of the second floating module are arranged so that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of the rotational mechanism of the second floating module, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation. Related apparatus and methods are also described.

Description

Title: HARVESTING ENERGY FROM WAVE MOTION

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present disclosure, in some embodiments thereof, relates to devices for harvesting energy from wave motion, and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to devices for harvesting electrical energy from wave motion.

BACKGROUND

Publications describing devices for harvesting energy from wave motion include:

US Patent Publication Number 2019/0136823 Al by Lewis, which describes an ocean wave energy collecting apparatus for extracting power comprises a plurality of modules in a lattice formation, moored as a group to the sea floor via tether(s), each module reacting to each adjacent module. Connecting members connecting the modules rotate about the points where the connecting members enter the modules in response to the orbital motion of water particles in ocean waves. A collection of modules is arranged and interconnected in crystal-like lattice layers, such that each module has rotation and/or linear motion in relation to an adjacent module as ocean wave energy passes, and is captured and converted to electricity, by the apparatus.

US Patent Number 9,523,346 B2 to Findlay, which describes a wave energy transformation device including an array of members connected together to form a structure having a substantially hexagonal geometry, the array has link members, nodes and absorbers and the relative motion of at least some of the members of the array, as caused by the energy of wave motion in a medium to which the array is coupled is convertible to another form of energy. The device is suitable for generating electrical energy from sea waves.

US Patent Number 8,193,655 B2 to Lu et al, which describes a system of small, interconnected cubes, each containing interior walls made from a highly sensitive multilayer piezoelectric material and each having heavy mass, such as stainless steel, inside the cube interior. An elastic material layer covers the heavy internal mass that is in contact with the piezoelectric cube walls. As the system moves with the water, the heavy mass inside each cube exerts varying inertial forces on the cube walls causing a piezoelectric current to be generated. However, the cell walls may also be constructed using commercially available piezoelectric materials. This approach is a second embodiment of the current invention and includes the same system design as the first embodiment except that the internal cubic cell walls are fabricated in a unique manner using commercially available piezoelectric materials, rather than the non-central symmetric LB poly-vinylidene fluoride (PVDF) multilayer piezoelectric material.

US Patent Number 8,013,462 B2 to Protter et al, which describes a wave energy converter has a primary body interconnected to a secondary body such that the bodies may oscillate longitudinally relative to one another. A slug mass is visco-elastically connected to the primary body. The slug mass has effective mass, stiffness and damping characteristics. A generator is drivingly connected between the primary and secondary bodies. The generator has a load damping characteristic. At least one of the characteristics is dynamically controllable, allowing the bodies' longitudinal motion to be varied in response to wave motion changes of the wave environment in which the wave energy converter is deployed, to maintain out-of-phase oscillation of the bodies, thus increasing the driving force imparted to the generator and thereby increasing the generator's electrical energy output.

CN Patent Number 103256171 apparently describes an ocean wave energy blanket. The ocean wave energy blanket includes multiple energy conversion groups arranged in a rectangular shape. Each energy conversion group includes energy buoys, generators and counterweights floating in the ocean. Among them: the energy buoy includes a floating body, which is elongated and can be provided with one or more in the vertical direction. One end of the generator is connected to the energy float, and the other end is connected to the counterweight. The counterweight is connected to the generator, and the depth of the counterweight in the seawater is greater than the depth of the energy buoy in the seawater. The generator converts the kinetic energy of the relative motion between the energy float and the counterweight into electrical energy. Using the ocean wave energy blanket of the present invention, the kinetic energy generated by seawater movement can be converted into electrical energy and output, which saves dwindling non-renewable resources and is more beneficial to environmental protection. JP 2022538887 apparently describes a floating territory made of a semi-rigid floating structure. The structure is able to follow the upward and downward movement of the waves. It can be installed as well close to the shores as in high sea, carrying a rigid structure. Said rigid structure acts like a bridge between the waves and provides a substantially stable surface for the installation of structures for human activity. Said rigid structure remains above the water level. The floating territory can be stabilized in position dynamically by propellers compensating the movement of the streams and/or winds, or by submersed weights attached to said rigid structure, or by pillars planted in the ground attached to said rigid structure. This leaves a vertical freedom of movement to follow the movement of the waves or the tides.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING(S)

Some embodiments of the disclosure are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the disclosure. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced.

In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a simplified illustration of a floating module according to an example;

Figure 2 is a simplified illustration of a side of a floating module according to an example;

Figure 3 is a simplified illustration of a side of a floating module according to an example;

Figure 4A is a simplified illustration of unidirectional mechanisms acting upon a chain or belt according to an example;

Figures 4B-4D are simplified side view illustrations of a floating module according to an example;

Figure 5 is a simplified side view illustration of two floating modules configured in an assemblage of floating modules according to an example;

Figure 6 is a simplified isometric illustration of two floating modules configured in an assemblage of floating modules according to an example; Figure 7 is a simplified illustration of a top portion of a floating module according to an example;

Figure 8 is a simplified illustration of an electric generator accepting rotational motion from an assemblage of floating modules according to an example;

Figure 9 is a simplified side view illustration of an array of floating modules anchored to a sea bottom according to an example;

Figure 10 is a simplified isometric illustration of a one-dimensional assemblage of floating modules providing rotational movement to power an electric generator according to an example;

Figure 11 is a simplified isometric illustration of a two-dimensional assemblage of floating modules according to an example;

Figure 12 is a simplified isometric illustration of a two-dimensional assemblage of floating modules at different heights showing wave movement through the assemblage according to an example; and

Figure 13, which is a simplified top view illustration of a two-dimensional assemblage of floating modules according to an example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

The present disclosure, in some examples thereof, relates to devices for harvesting energy from wave motion, and, more particularly, but not exclusively, to devices for harvesting electrical energy from wave motion.

Introduction

The present disclosure, in some examples thereof, relates to an assemblage of floating modules on a fluid surface. When a wave passes along the fluid surface, the modules rise and fall with the wave. The modules are interconnected mechanically to harvest their relative movement in a form of energy.

In some examples, relative movement of the modules is converted into rotational energy.

In some examples, rotational energy generated at one module is transferred to a neighboring module. The rotational energy may be transferred from module to module, with at least some of the modules producing their own rotational energy contribution and augmenting the amount of rotational energy transferred. In some examples, the rotational energy finally reaches one or more electric generators, where the rotational energy is used to produce electric energy.

The number of floating modules may be greater, a multiple of, the number of electric generators, potentially providing a saving in the number of generators used in harvesting the wave power.

The design of the floating modules is optionally such that any single module may be easily disconnected and replaced from its neighboring floating modules, potentially enabling servicing the assemblage of floating modules on site, potentially one by one or where necessary.

A typical assemblage as described herein includes two or more floating modules, interconnected mechanically to harvest their relative movement in a form of energy.

Floating module(s)

A floating module is constructed to include a top portion above water, a bottom portion below water, and sides designed to interact with a neighboring floating module so that vertical movement of one module relative to another module produce rotational energy.

The floating module includes a mechanism which connects to a neighboring floating module and produces the rotational energy, connected to a mechanism for accepting rotational energy from a neighboring floating module, and for transferring rotational energy to another neighboring floating module, or to a generator module.

A floating module may optionally include a weight at its bottom side. Such a weight can potentially provide one or more benefits, including: adding mass to a module, which upon being translated up or down by a wave becomes momentum, thereby enabling to produce more kinetic energy per module per wave movement; and keeping a floating module closer to an upright direction, potentially lowering sideways friction of one floating module trying to “lean” on another floating module.

Size of a floating module

A width of a floating module may be designed so as to capture wave energy.

In case of floating modules which are very narrow relative to a width of a wave, there may be little height difference between neighboring floating modules floating on a wave, therefore little rotation produced by the relative movement of the neighboring floating modules.

In case of floating modules which are very wide relative to a width of a wave, each floating module floats on more than one wave, and again there may be little height difference between neighboring floating modules, therefore little rotation produced by the relative movement of the neighboring floating modules.

In some examples, a width of a floating modules is optionally between approximately a quarter (1/4) of a minimal average wavelength and a quarter (1/4) of a maximal average wavelength of the location in which a device or system for harvesting energy from wave motion is deployed, or of the season of the year in which the device or the system for harvesting energy from wave motion is deployed.

Transferring rotational movement

An aspect of some examples relates to the method and components used for transfer of rotational movement from one floating module to a neighboring floating module.

In some examples, such transferring of rotational movement from one floating module to a neighboring floating module, is done along a linear array of floating modules, from one floating module to another along the linear array.

In some examples, such transferring of rotational movement from one floating module to a neighboring floating module, is also done sideways, so that rotational motion is transferred from a floating module to one neighbor in a first direction, and another neighbor at another direction, for example at an angle of about 90 degrees to the first direction, or even at an angle of 60 degrees to the first direction.

An aspect of some examples relates to transferring rotational movement from one floating module to a neighboring floating module when the floating modules are not necessarily at the same height. The floating modules are floating on a sea, and generation rotational movement based on a wave raising and lowering the modules relative to each other, so at any given moment the floating modules may be at different heights relative to each other.

In some examples an extendible rotation transfer mechanism transfers the rotation from one floating module to another even when mechanically connected to the floating modules at varying angles to the modules, and even while distances between locations of connection of the extendible rotation transfer mechanism to the neighboring floating modules changes with wave movement.

An aspect of some examples relates to what a floating module does when rotational movement transferred to the floating module is at a different speed than the rotational movement which the floating module generates by virtue of its own movement up and down relative to a neighboring floating module.

In some examples, when a rotational movement transferred to a floating module, for transferring onward, is rotating faster, at a greater rotation rate, than the rotational movement generated by the floating module itself, the floating module receives the faster rotation and transfers the faster rotation on to a neighboring floating module, while not adding its own rotational movement to the transferred rotational movement, so as not to slow it down.

In some examples, when a rotational movement transferred to a floating module, for transferring onward, is rotating slower, at a smaller rotation rate, than the rotational movement generated by the floating module itself, the floating module receives the slower rotation but does not transfer the slower rotation on to a neighboring floating module, only transferring its own rotational movement, which is faster, to the transferred rotational movement.

Spreading a load amongst floating modules

It is noted that apparently, if one source of rotation, one floating module, produces the fastest rate of rotation, then only that one floating module of an entire array of floating modules will have its rate of rotation transferred. However, under a load of powering an electric generator, or even under a load of powering resistance along the path of rotation transfer, that single fastest rotation is slowed, causing an unexpected beneficial effect whereby additional sources of rotation, additional floating modules, now provide the rotational energy. In other words, under no load it may happen that only one floating modules, or few floating modules, participate in powering the rotation, but under load more and more floating modules join to provide the rotational power.

Electric generator(s)

Rotation energy produced by one or more floating arrives at an electric generator. In some examples the rotation energy may optionally pass through a transfer mechanism to increase or decrease a rate of rotation by a specific ration. In a typical case the transfer mechanism may serve to increase the rate of rotation.

In some examples the rotation energy may optionally pass through a gear box mechanism to enable varying a rate of rotation. In some examples, the gearbox may be controlled remotely, based on an operator selecting a ratio between wave period and rate of rotation fed into the generator. In some examples the gearbox may be automatically controlled to shift a rate of rotation into a desired range, potentially optimizing electrical energy production form a given wave period. In some examples, the gear box may optionally be a continuous gearbox.

In some examples the gearbox and/or other control and/or communication systems related to the energy harvesting assemblage may optionally be powered by electrical energy produced by the energy harvesting assemblage.

It is noted that in some examples a gearbox is positioned between the rotation transfer of the floating modules array and one or more electric generators, to adjust a correct rotation rate of the generator(s) to the rotation rate produced by the floating modules array. In some examples the gearbox may be an automatic gearbox.

It is noted that in some examples a load which is exerted by a generator or generators on the rotation-providing array of floating modules may be adjusted to achieve a beneficial association between a rate of rotation provided and a rate of rotation of the generator(s). by way of a non-limiting example, one or more generator(s) may be connected to the array of floating modules, or disconnected from the array, to adjust the load that the array sees, and to adjust the rotation rate which the array provides to the remaining generator(s).

It is noted that in some examples an electric load which the generator provides may be adjusted so that the load exerted by a generator or generators on the rotationproviding array of floating modules may be adjusted to achieve a beneficial association between the rate of rotation provided and a rate of rotation of the generator(s).

Anchor! s)

In some examples the energy harvesting assemblage is anchored to a specific location by one or more anchors. A line connecting the energy harvesting assemblage to the anchor(s) should be long enough to compensate for difference is sea level due to tides, and short enough to prevent the energy harvesting assemblage from being swept to a location which may cause damage to the energy harvesting assemblage.

Some non-limiting examples of potential advantages

Some non-limiting examples of potential advantages of a system for harvesting energy from wave motion as described herein include: an array of floating modules as described herein transfers rotational energy from floating module to floating module, enabling use of a smaller number of electric generators than floating units, potentially leading to cost savings; an array of floating modules as described herein generates rotational energy by sides of the floating modules acting upon each other. This enables populating a dense array of floating modules, and so a high number of energy-generating mechanisms per unit area; an array of floating modules as described herein includes weights beneath the floats, thereby increasing the mass moving up and down by in response to waves, thereby potentially increasing an amount of energy which can be produced by each moving float; an array of floating modules as described herein is optionally tethered sideways, to a float, thereby preventing the array from being drawn underwater when tide goes up.; an array of floating modules as described herein can utilize a variable number of electric generators, disconnecting and connecting generators to the array, so that the generators can operate at an efficient workload or rate of rotation. Different sea wave conditions may power a different number of generators at different times; and several arrays or sub-arrays of floating modules as described herein can be connected to power one generator, disconnecting and connecting arrays or subarrays from the one generator, so that the generator can operate at an efficient workload or rate of rotation.

Before explaining at least one example of the disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings and/or the Examples. The disclosure is capable of other examples or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

Reference is now made to Figure 1, which is a simplified illustration of a floating module according to an example.

Figure 1 is intended to depict an individual floating module, showing some components participating in a module’s operation.

Figure 1 shows a floating module 100 including a cuboid or box-shaped float 101, a top mechanism 106 attached to the float 101 at a face designed to be a top face of the cuboid, above water, and an optional weight or additional mass 108 attached to a face intended to be a bottom face of the cuboid, below the water.

In the example of Figure 1 the optional weight or additional mass 108 is shown as a pointed pole attached to a bottom of the float 101. the optional weight or additional mass 108 may be configured with other shapes, such as a flat weight (not shown in Figure 1) attached to the bottom of the float 101, a streamlined weight (not shown in Figure 1) attached to the bottom of the float 101, and other shapes.

In the example of Figure 1 the float 101 is cuboid, having four side faces. It is noted that a float having six faces could also be used, as will become apparent by description of the components and functionality of a floating module as described herein.

The float 101 has a side 102 which will be called side A, and a side 104 which will be called side B.

Figure 1 shows on Side A 102 a drive belt 110 going around two pulleys 114a 114b, configured so that when the floating modules move up and down relative to each other, one or more unidirectional mechanisms cause the drive belt 110 to move in one direction, and rotate the pulleys 114a 114b to rotate in one direction.

In some examples, side A optionally includes rails 117, configured to slide along rails 118 attached to a side B 104 of a neighboring floating module.

Figure 1 also shows on side B 104 unidirectional mechanisms 112 which are attached to the side B of the floating module and configured to interact with the drive belt 110 of a neighboring floating module. When one floating module moves up or down relative to a neighboring floating module the unidirectional mechanisms 112 either push the drive belt 110 in a desired direction or slide along the drive belt 110 without pushing it along.

When the floating module shown in Figure 1 moves, for example up, relative to the neighboring floating module (not shown in Figure 1), then a first one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 slides along the chain 110, and a second one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 pushes the chain in a direction of movement of this second one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112.

When the floating module shown in Figure 1 moves, for example down, relative to the neighboring floating module (not shown in Figure 1), then the second one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 slides along the chain 110, and the first one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 pushes the chain in a direction of movement of this first one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112.

In such a manner, when the floating modules move up and down relative to each other, the chain 110 is caused to move in one direction, rotating sprocket wheels 114a and 114b.

In some examples the drive belt 110 may be implemented as a drive belt 110, going around pulleys 114a 114b.

In some examples the drive belt 110 may be implemented as a chain 110 or roller chain 110, going around sprocket wheels 114a 114b.

Figure 1 also shows a line 120 where the average water level is approximately expected to be when the floating module is deployed in water.

The above description listed components attached to side A 102 and side B 104 of the float 101.

It is noted that the float 101 shown in Figure 1 has four sides, two of which may optionally be constructed with components of the side A, and two which may optionally be constructed with components of the side B. The float 101 shown in Figure 1 may have two side A’s and two side B’s.

It is also noted that if the float 101 has six sides, it could have up to 3 side A’s and three side B’s.

In some examples, the float 101 may include one or more additional constructions similar to that depicted on side A 102, and/or one or more additional constructions similar to that depicted on side B 104. Although it is not seen in Figure 1, the float 101 of Figure 1 is intended to depict a float 101 having two sides configured similarly to side A 102 and two sides configured similarly to side B 104.

The top mechanism 106 shows extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116a 116b 116c 116d which are configured to transfer rotation to and from the top mechanism 106, to and from neighboring floating modules 100, as will be further described below.

In some examples, the top mechanism is configured to accept and transfer rotational movement at various angles of incoming and outgoing extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116a 116b 116c as will be described further below.

In some examples the top mechanism is configured to accept rotational movement at a different rotation rate than the floating module 100 is itself generating, and transfer the higher rate of the two: rotational movement by the floating module, or rotation movement transferred from a neighbor via the extendible rotation transfer mechanisms.

Reference is now made to Figure 2, which is a simplified illustration of a side of a floating module according to an example.

Figure 2 is intended to show side A 102 of a portion of an example floating module.

Figure 2 shows a portion of a float 101a, attached to a weight 108.

Figure 2 also shows a chain 110 or belt 110 and a sprocket wheel 114b similar to the chain 110 or belt 110 and the sprocket wheel 114b of Figure 1.

Figure 2 also shows a line 120 where the average water level is approximately expected to be when the floating module is deployed in water.

Reference is now made to Figure 3, which is a simplified illustration of a side of a floating module according to an example.

Figure 3 is intended to show side B 104 of a portion of an example floating module.

Figure 3 shows a portion of the float 101a shown in Figure 2, attached to the weight 108.

Figure 3 also shows the unidirectional mechanisms 112 for acting upon a chain or belt of a neighboring floating module (not shown in Figure 3) and the rails 118 designed to facilitate movement of the floating modules relative to each other, and/or to keep the chain 110 of the neighboring floating module from escaping the unidirectional mechanisms 112. Figure 3 also shows the line 120 where the average water level is approximately expected to be when the floating module is deployed in water.

Reference is now made to Figure 4A, which is a simplified illustration of unidirectional mechanisms acting upon a chain or belt according to an example.

Figure 4A shows show side A 102 of a portion of a float 101, and a chain 110 going around a sprocket wheel 114b.

Figure 4A also shows unidirectional mechanisms 112 which are actually attached to a side B of a neighboring floating module (not shown in Figure 4A), configured so that when the floating modules move up and down 124 relative to each other, the unidirectional mechanisms 112 causes a chain 110 to move around the sprocket wheel 114b in only one direction 122.

For example, a right one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 optionally slides freely up, but grabs and drives the right side of the chain 110 down when the right one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 moves down, and a left one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 optionally slides freely down, but grabs and drives the left side of the chain 110 up when the left one of the unidirectional mechanisms 112 moves up.

In some examples, the sprocket wheel 114b may optionally have a unidirectional mechanism configured so as to enable the sprocket wheel 114b to rotate in just one direction.

In some examples, the upper sprocket wheel 114a shown in Figure 1 and not shown in Figure 4A may optionally have a unidirectional mechanism configured so as to enable the upper sprocket wheel 114a to rotate in just one direction.

Reference is now made to Figures 4B-4D, which are simplified side view illustrations of a floating module according to an example.

Figures 4B-4D are intended to show various example implementations of weights attached to the floating modules.

Figures 4A-4D show a side view of floating modules having top portions 106 and floats 101, and a line 120 where the average water level is approximately expected to be when the floating modules are deployed in water.

Figure 4B shows a rod-shaped weight 108a or a stake-shaped weight 108a.

Figure 4C shows a rod 108b and a round weight 108c at its distal end.

Figure 4D shows a weight 108d attached to a bottom of the float 101. In some examples the weight 108d may be constructed as part of the float 101. Reference is now made to Figure 5, which is a simplified side view illustration of two floating modules configured in an assemblage of floating modules according to an example.

Figure 5 shows an example of a first floating module 100a receiving rotational energy and transferring rotational energy to a second floating module 100b, and the second floating module 100b transferring rotational energy onward.

Reference numbers are used similarly to those used in previous drawings, so not all descriptions are repeated.

Figure 5 shows details of top mechanism examples in the floating modules 100a 100b similar to the top mechanism 106 shown in Figure 1. An axle 125 transfers unidirectional rotational movement of the pulley or sprocket wheel, via additional gear wheels and axle 126, to a wheel 128.

The wheel 128 is shown configured to transfer rotational movement to a neighboring floating module via a gear and an extendible rotation transfer mechanisms (116b 116a).

Figure 5 also shows an example of how top mechanisms in the floating modules 100a 100b receive rotational movement from a neighboring floating module via the extendible rotation transfer mechanisms (116c 116b) and wheels 130. The wheels 130 also transfer rotation via gears to the wheels 128, which transfer the rotation as described above.

Figure 5 shows an example of a row of floating modules transferring rotation from one to another.

In some examples, the pulley 114a or sprocket wheel 114a is a unidirectional component, which passes rotation to the axle 125 only when the rate of rotation to be passed is equal to or greater than the rate of rotation of the axle 125. In other words, rotation produced at a present floating module 100a 100b is only added to the transferred rotation if the rate of rotation produced can increase, or at least not detract, from the rate of rotation being transferred from neighboring floating modules. The may be, by way of some non-limiting examples, a mechanism such as a ratchet, a freewheel, an overrunning clutch, a sprag clutch, a roller clutch and similar mechanisms.

In some examples the uni -directional feature may be in other components of the floating modules 100a 100b, such as, by way of some non-limiting examples, in the axle 125 and/or in the axle 126 and/or in the various rotating gears or wheels of the rotation transfer mechanism.

It is noted that apparently, if one source of rotation, one floating module, produces the fastest rate of rotation, then only that one floating module of an entire array of floating modules will have its rate of rotation transferred. However, under a load of powering an electric generator, or even under a load of powering resistance along the path of rotation transfer, that single fastest rotation is slowed, causing an unexpected beneficial effect whereby additional sources of rotation, additional floating modules, now provide the rotational energy. In other words, under no load it may happen that only one floating module, or few floating modules, participate in powering the rotation, but under load more and more floating modules join to provide the rotational power.

Reference is now made to Figure 6, which is a simplified isometric illustration of two floating modules configured in an assemblage of floating modules according to an example.

Figure 6 shows an example of a first floating module 100c receiving rotational energy and transferring rotational energy to a second floating module lOOd, and the second floating module lOOd transferring rotational energy onward.

Figure 6 shows the floating modules 100c and lOOd having two sides A and two sides B, receiving rotational movement from two perpendicular directions, and transferring rotational movement to two perpendicular directions, via extendible rotation transfer mechanisms (116a 116b 116c 116d 116e 116f 116g).

Figure 6 also shows that the floating modules 100c lOOd can each be at a different level, in fact, they generate the rotational movement by moving up and down relative to each other, powered by waves moving across a one -dimensional or two- dimensional array of floating module connected to each other as described herein.

Figure 6 also shows examples of optional covers 132. In some examples the covers 132 are configured to cover some of the components of the top mechanisms of the floating modules. In some examples the covers 132 are configured to be rigid enough for a maintenance person to step on the covers and move from floating module to floating module, potentially enabling access by walking across an array of floating modules to whichever floating modules it is desired to access and optionally perform maintenance thereon.

Reference is now made to Figure 7, which is a simplified illustration of a top portion of a floating module according to an example.

Figure 7 demonstrates a mechanism of transferring rotational movement from one floating module to another can handle rotational movement coming in, or going out, at various angles.

Figure 7 shows an extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116h providing rotational movement via gear 134h to wheel 128, which is attached to an axle 126. The axle 126 is also the axle to which the rotation movement from the mechanism of the present floating modules are transferred, so the axle 126 is rotated both by the mechanism of its own floating module and by rotation transferred from a neighboring floating module.

Figure 7 also shows that a wheel 130, which is also attached to the axle 126 transfers rotation via gear 134i to an extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116i, which passes the rotation on, to another floating module (not shown) or to an electricity generator (not shown).

Figure 7 demonstrates a mechanism which can accept rotation movement and transfer rotation movement over a wide range of angles, from 0 degrees, that is horizontally, to more than 45 degrees to the horizontal, even up to +/- 87 degrees to the horizontal.

The wheels 128 130 optionally have holes or slots designed so that gear teeth on the wheel 134 can transfer rotation at any of the above-mentioned angles.

Figure 7 also shows hinges 136h 136i which retain the gears 134h 134i in contact with the wheels 128 130.

Reference is now made to Figure 8, which is a simplified illustration of an electric generator accepting rotational motion from an assemblage of floating modules according to an example.

Figure 8 shows an example of one electric generator 144 accepting rotational movement via an extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116j of a neighboring floating module lOOj.

In some examples the electric generator 144 may optionally be rigidly attached 146 to the neighboring floating module lOOj. In some examples the electric generator 144 may optionally be attached to a float 148 configured to float the electric generator 144.

In some cases, the rotation rate provided by the extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116j of may be increased or reduced by an optional gearbox 142 as shown in Figure 8, and/or by an optional gearbox 140 as shown in Figure 8.

Reference is now made to Figure 9, which is a simplified side view illustration of an array of floating modules anchored to a sea bottom according to an example.

Figure 9 shows a one -dimensional or two-dimensional array 150 of floating modules, located floating on the water 155 above a sea bed 160.

In some examples, the array 150 may be tethered 152 to a float or buoy 154, which itself is tethered to an anchor 158 on the sea bed 160.

In some examples, the float/buoy 154 may be tethered to the anchor 158 via an optional intermediate weight 156. The optional intermediate weight 156 potentially maintains the float/buoy 154 close to a specific angle relative to the horizon, for example close to horizontal, even when the line between the anchor 158 and the optional intermediate weight 156 is not perpendicular to the horizontal.

In some examples, the array 150 may optionally be located by an arrangement of more than one anchor 158 and/or buoys 154.

In some examples, potentially when the array 150 is a one -dimensional array, it may be useful to use one anchor and enable the one -dimensional array to change direction in accordance with action of the waves.

In some examples, potentially when the array 150 is a two-dimensional array, it may be useful to use two or more anchors and keep the two-dimensional array 150 from shifting around or rotating. The array is enabled to produce rotational energy and electricity regardless of which direction from which the waves impinge upon the array 150.

In some examples, the array 150 may optionally be tethered 162 to a shore.

Reference is now made to Figure 10, which is a simplified isometric illustration of a one-dimensional assemblage of floating modules providing rotational movement to power an electric generator according to an example.

Figure 10 shows example floating modules 100a 100b 100c providing rotational movement to power an electric generator 144. Figure 10 shows the example floating modules 100a 100b 100c at various heights, and extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116 transferring the rotational movement at various angles between the floating modules 100a 100b 100c and to the generator 144 unit.

Figure 10 also shows example extendible rotation transfer mechanisms 116 extending not just along one direction between the floating modules 100a 100b 100c but also sideways to neighboring floating modules which are not shown in Figure 10.

Reference is now made to Figure 11, which is a simplified isometric illustration of a two-dimensional assemblage of floating modules according to an example.

Figure 11 shows example floating modules 100a 100b 100c lOOd each providing and transferring rotational movement in at least two roughly perpendicular directions.

Reference is now made to Figure 12, which is a simplified isometric illustration of a two-dimensional assemblage of floating modules at different heights showing wave movement through the assemblage according to an example.

Figure 12 shows example floating modules 100 at different heights showing wave movement through the assemblage.

Reference is now made to Figure 13, which is a simplified top view illustration of a two-dimensional assemblage of floating modules according to an example.

Figure 13 shows example floating modules 100 each having two sides A (as described above) and two sides B (as described above), providing rotational movement and powering an electric generator 144 mechanically connected to at least one of the floating modules 100.

It is noted that in some examples a plurality of generators 144 may be connected and receiving rotational movement from the assemblage.

Figure 13 shows several optional additional generators 144b attached to the assemblage at various locations.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

Example 1

An energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system including a first floating module configured to float on a body of water, the first floating module including at least one side A including a closed loop component, wherein the closed loop component is disposed around a first pulley and a second pulley, allowing for rotation of the closed loop around the first and second pulleys, a second floating module configured to float on the body of water and to move vertically relative to the first floating module in response to wave motion, the second floating module including at least one side B including a unidirectional engagement mechanism, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the second floating module is configured to engage with the closed loop component of the first floating module, such that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of the closed loop component in a single direction around the first and second pulleys, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation of the pulleys.

Example 2

An energy harvesting system according to Example 1, wherein the floating modules includes weights at a bottom portion of the floating modules.

Example 3

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to a top portion of a neighboring floating module.

Example 4

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to receive rotation from a top portion of a neighboring floating module.

Example 5

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to a top portion of more than one neighboring floating module.

Example 6 An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to receive rotation from a top portion of more than one neighboring floating module.

Example 7

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-6, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to a top portion of a neighboring floating module using rotation transfer arms to transfer rotation from the top portion of one floating module to the top portion of a neighboring floating module

Example 8

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-7, and further including an electric generator configured to receive mechanical energy as transferred rotation from a neighboring floating module and convert the mechanical energy to electric energy.

Example 9

An energy harvesting system according to Example 8 wherein the electric generator is configured to float.

Example 10

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-9, wherein each one of the floating modules includes two sides A and two sides B.

Example 11

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Example 1-9, wherein each one of the floating modules includes three sides A and three sides B.

Example 12

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Example 1-11, including more than 2 floating modules arranged in a row. Example 13

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Example 1-11, including more than 2 floating modules arranged in a two-dimensional array.

Example 14

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-13, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to change their length by extending and retracting.

Example 15

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-14, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured as accordion arms.

Example 16

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-15, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to connect to the top portion of the floating modules and transfer rotation over a range of angles from -87 degrees to +87 degrees relative to a plane water level.

Example 17

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-16, wherein the closed loop component includes a chain and the pulleys include sprocket wheels.

Example 18

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-16, wherein the closed loop component includes a roller chain and the pulleys includes sprocket wheels.

Example 19

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-16, wherein the drive mechanism includes a drive belt.

Example 20 An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-19, wherein the floating modules further include slides on the side A and complementing slides on the side B, arranged so that the slides of side A and the slide of side B slide along each other when the floating modules move up or down relative to each other.

Example 21

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-20, wherein the floating modules further include slides on the side A and complementing slides on the side B, arranged so that the slides of side A and the slide of side B slide along each other when the floating modules move up or down relative to each other.

Example 22

An energy harvesting system according to any one of Examples 1-21, configured so that any one floating module may be disconnected from receiving and transferring rotation without stopping the rest of the floating modules from receiving and transferring rotation.

Example 23

A method for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the method including providing an energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system including a first floating module configured to float on a body of water, the first floating module including at least one side A including a closed loop component, wherein the closed loop component is disposed around a first pulley and a second pulley, allowing for rotation of the closed loop around the first and second pulleys, a second floating module configured to float on the body of water and to move vertically relative to the first floating module in response to wave motion, the second floating module including at least one side B including a unidirectional engagement mechanism, and deploying the system to float on a body of water, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the second floating module is configured to engage with the closed loop component of the first floating module, such that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of the closed loop component in a single direction around the first and second pulleys, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation of the pulleys.

Example 24

A method according to Example 23, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to a top portion of a neighboring floating module using rotation transfer arms to transfer rotation from the top portion of one floating module to the top portion of a neighboring floating module

Example 25

A method according to any one of Examples 23-24, and further including using an electric generator configured to receive mechanical energy as transferred rotation from a floating module and convert the mechanical energy to electric energy.

Example 26

A method according to any one of Examples 23-25 wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to change their length by extending and retracting.

Example 27

A method according to any one of Examples 23-26, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to connect to the top portion of the floating modules and transfer rotation over a range of angles from -87 degrees to +87 degrees relative to a plane water level.

Example 28

An energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system including a plurality of floating module configured to float on a body of water, at least one side of one of a first floating module includes a unidirectional engagement mechanism configured to interact with a rotational mechanism included in a side of a second, neighboring floating module to produce rotational motion of a pulley in the second floating module, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the first floating module and the rotational mechanism of the second floating module are arranged so that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of rotational mechanism of the second floating module, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation.

Example 29

A method for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the method including providing an energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system including a plurality of floating module configured to float on a body of water, at least one side of one of a first floating module includes a unidirectional engagement mechanism configured to interact with a rotational mechanism included in a side of a second, neighboring floating module to produce rotational motion of a pulley in the second floating module, and deploying the system to float on a body of water, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the first floating module and the rotational mechanism of the second floating module are arranged so that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of rotational mechanism of the second floating module, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation.

As such, those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, can appreciate that while the present invention has been described in terms of preferred examples, the concept upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, systems and processes for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and algorithm steps described in connection with the examples disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality can be implemented in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing any departure from the scope of the disclosure. It will also be understood that the system according to the present disclosure may be, at least partly, implemented on a suitably programmed computer. Likewise, the present disclosure contemplates a computer program being readable by a computer for executing the method of the invention. The present disclosure further contemplates a non-transitory computer-readable memory tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the computer for executing the method of the present disclosure.

Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

It should be noted that the words “comprising”, "including" and "having" as used throughout the appended claims are to be interpreted to mean “including but not limited to”. The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases, and disjunctively present in other cases.

It is important, therefore, that the scope of the invention is not construed as being limited by the illustrative examples set forth herein. Other variations are possible within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. Other combinations and sub-combinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of the present claims or presentation of new claims in this or a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to different combinations or directed to the same combinations, whether different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original claims, are also regarded as included within the subject matter of the present description.

It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant unidirectional mechanisms will be developed and the scope of the term unidirectional mechanism is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

As used herein with reference to quantity or value, the term “approximately” means “within ± 50 % of’.

The terms “comprising”, “including”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to”.

The term “consisting of’ is intended to mean “including and limited to”. The term “consisting essentially of’ means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a unit” or “at least one unit” may include a plurality of units, including combinations thereof.

The word “example” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance or illustration”. Any embodiment described as an “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments and/or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments.

The word “optionally” is used herein to mean “is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments”. Any particular embodiment of the disclosure may include a plurality of “optional” features unless such features conflict.

Unless otherwise indicated, numbers used herein and any number ranges based thereon are approximations within the accuracy of reasonable measurement and rounding errors as understood by persons skilled in the art

It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

Although the disclosure has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

It is the intent of the applicant(s) that all publications, patents and patent applications referred to in this specification are to be incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually noted when referenced that it is to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting. In addition, any priority document(s) of this application is/are hereby incorporated herein by reference in its/their entirety.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system comprising: a first floating module configured to float on a body of water, the first floating module comprising at least one side A comprising a closed loop component, wherein the closed loop component is disposed around a first pulley and a second pulley, allowing for rotation of the closed loop around the first and second pulleys; a second floating module configured to float on the body of water and to move vertically relative to the first floating module in response to wave motion, the second floating module comprising at least one side B comprising a unidirectional engagement mechanism, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the second floating module is configured to engage with the closed loop component of the first floating module, such that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of the closed loop component in a single direction around the first and second pulleys, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation of the pulleys.

2. An energy harvesting system according to claim 1, wherein the floating modules comprises weights at a bottom portion of the floating modules.

3. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to a top portion of a neighboring floating module.

4. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to receive rotation from a top portion of a neighboring floating module.

5. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to atop portion of more than one neighboring floating module.

6. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to receive rotation from atop portion of more than one neighboring floating module.

7. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to a top portion of a neighboring floating module using rotation transfer arms to transfer rotation from the top portion of one floating module to the top portion of a neighboring floating module

8. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-7, and further comprising an electric generator configured to receive mechanical energy as transferred rotation from a neighboring floating module and convert the mechanical energy to electric energy.

9. An energy harvesting system according to claim 8 wherein the electric generator is configured to float.

10. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein each one of the floating modules comprises two sides A and two sides B.

11. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claim 1-9, wherein each one of the floating modules comprises three sides A and three sides B.

12. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claim 1-11, comprising more than 2 floating modules arranged in a row.

13. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claim 1-11, comprising more than 2 floating modules arranged in a two-dimensional array.

14. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to change their length by extending and retracting.

15. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured as accordion arms.

16. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-15, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to connect to the top portion of the floating modules and transfer rotation over a range of angles from -87 degrees to +87 degrees relative to a plane water level.

17. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein the closed loop component comprises a chain and the pulleys comprise sprocket wheels.

18. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein the closed loop component comprises a roller chain and the pulleys comprises sprocket wheels.

19. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein the drive mechanism comprises a drive belt.

20. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein the floating modules further comprise slides on the side A and complementing slides on the side B, arranged so that the slides of side A and the slide of side B slide along each other when the floating modules move up or down relative to each other.

21. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1 -20, wherein the floating modules further comprise slides on the side A and complementing slides on the side B, arranged so that the slides of side A and the slide of side B slide along each other when the floating modules move up or down relative to each other.

22. An energy harvesting system according to any one of claims 1-21, configured so that any one floating module may be disconnected from receiving and transferring rotation without stopping the rest of the floating modules from receiving and transferring rotation.

23. A method for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the method comprising: providing an energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system comprising: a first floating module configured to float on a body of water, the first floating module comprising at least one side A comprising a closed loop component, wherein the closed loop component is disposed around a first pulley and a second pulley, allowing for rotation of the closed loop around the first and second pulleys; a second floating module configured to float on the body of water and to move vertically relative to the first floating module in response to wave motion, the second floating module comprising at least one side B comprising a unidirectional engagement mechanism; and deploying the system to float on a body of water, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the second floating module is configured to engage with the closed loop component of the first floating module, such that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of the closed loop component in a single direction around the first and second pulleys, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation of the pulleys.

24. A method according to claim 23 , wherein a top portion of each one of the floating modules is configured to transfer the rotation to a top portion of a neighboring floating module using rotation transfer arms to transfer rotation from the top portion of one floating module to the top portion of a neighboring floating module

25. A method according to any one of claims 23-24, and further comprising using an electric generator configured to receive mechanical energy as transferred rotation from a floating module and convert the mechanical energy to electric energy.

26. A method according to any one of claims 23-25 wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to change their length by extending and retracting.

27. A method according to any one of claims 23-26, wherein the rotation transfer arms are configured to connect to the top portion of the floating modules and transfer rotation over a range of angles from -87 degrees to +87 degrees relative to a plane water level.

28. An energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system comprising: a plurality of floating module configured to float on a body of water; at least one side of one of a first floating module comprises a unidirectional engagement mechanism configured to interact with a rotational mechanism comprised in a side of a second, neighboring floating module to produce rotational motion of a pulley in the second floating module; wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the first floating module and the rotational mechanism of the second floating module are arranged so that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of rotational mechanism of the second floating module, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation.

29. A method for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the method comprising: providing an energy harvesting system for converting wave motion into mechanical energy, the system comprising: a plurality of floating module configured to float on a body of water; at least one side of one of a first floating module comprises a unidirectional engagement mechanism configured to interact with a rotational mechanism comprised in a side of a second, neighboring floating module to produce rotational motion of a pulley in the second floating module; and deploying the system to float on a body of water, wherein the unidirectional engagement mechanism of the first floating module and the rotational mechanism of the second floating module are arranged so that vertical relative motion between the first floating module and the second floating module causes rotation of rotational mechanism of the second floating module, thereby converting the vertical motion into mechanical energy of rotation.