Wave Energy Floating Platform (MOD. PAT)
These platforms are distinct from all other wave energy systems due to their ability to capture almost all the energy of the wave reaching the structure.
Operating principle:
The platform consists of a floating cabin that resembles a square funnel from which the incoming waves lead through to different exits, which in short allows you to use its power to generate electricity.
When a wave reaches the platform, it enters a cabin that, through its funnel design, accelerates and forces more water into it than would be usual at a given wave front. Then, through certain mechanisms, the platform is sunk below its flotation level at rest, this being one of its main features for harnessing power. Meanwhile, the float-actuator that is observed in the centre of the structure, moves up in sync with the top level of the water entering the cabin. This feature makes the relative distance travelled by the float-actuator inside the cabin, twice that provided by the simple passage of a wave.
How much energy is provided by these platforms?
Approximately 95% of the energy of a wave is at a distance from the back equivalent to 25% of the total length of it, this being the ideal depth for the catchment area of the platforms. This means we can use some of that energy to sink the platform, since the rear wing makes it harder for the free exit of the water, resulting in greater weight at a given time until all exits are enabled. By adjusting the resistance of the rear wing and the funnel effect, we can obtain a considerable force to sink the platform without the need for large waves. Given that the platform has access to 95% of the wave's energy potential, we can acquire enough force to sink as much as we require in sync with the available energy. For example, if we have waves of 3 meters and the structure is sunk another 3 meters while the float-actuator remains on the surface, we have multiplied by 2 the relative distance travelled. If the float-actuator displaces 500 tons, it gives a power of (500 x 9,8 x 6) = 29.400 kW. However, despite having used part of the wave energy on this effect, we have not consumed the total of this 95%. Therefore, both the front and rear wings together in a pendulum effect, can capture more energy to generate electricity.
No instability by irregular motion of the waves.
All obtained forces are used to pressurize water in a closed circuit, which is distributed to a hydrodynamic motor located in the engine room that is on top of each platform, what means that these platforms will not be affected by irregularities in amplitude, direction and frequency of the waves. Also, since they are floating platforms, they are not affected by tides.
As shown, the amount of wave energy that the floating platforms can exchange is enormous. Where the main problem lies is not in the lack of energy they provide, but how to collect it in full.