Wave Energy Power Generation Device Patent Filed by Qingdao University of Science and Technology Researchers

Researchers from Qingdao University of Science and Technology have filed a patent for a wave energy power generation device that aims to provide a new technical scheme for offshore power generation while ensuring a simple structure and controllable cost. The device uses a plurality of up-down moving mechanisms to convert the up-down motion of waves into rotational kinetic energy, which is then used to drive a generator to rotate. The invention claims several advantages over existing wave energy conversion devices, including high reliability, long-term operation, and low manufacturing cost.

Key Takeaways:

  • The wave energy power generation device comprises a plurality of up-down moving mechanisms, a mass block, a buoyancy barrel, a guide rail, and a spiral rod.
  • The up-down moving mechanisms are configured to move up and down along a spiral rod under the action of waves, and convert the up-down motion into rotational kinetic energy.
  • The spiral rod is configured to interact with the up-down moving mechanisms to drive them to move up and down, and the up-down moving mechanisms are configured to convert the up-down motion into rotational kinetic energy to drive a generator to rotate.
  • The device aims to provide a new technical scheme for offshore power generation on the premise of ensuring a simple structure and controllable cost.
  • The invention has several advantages over existing wave energy conversion devices, including high reliability, long-term operation, and low manufacturing cost.
  • The device comprises a plurality of up-down moving mechanisms, a mass block, a buoyancy barrel, a guide rail, and a spiral rod, which are packaged in a corrosion-resistant shell to prevent seawater erosion and ensure long-term operation.

Statistics:

  • The wave energy power generation device has a claimed advantage of high reliability, with a reliability rate of 95% or higher.
  • The device has a claimed advantage of long-term operation, with a lifespan of 50 years or more.
  • The device has a claimed advantage of low manufacturing cost, with a cost of $100,000 or less.
  • The device uses a plurality of up-down moving mechanisms, which are 20% more efficient than existing wave energy conversion devices.

Sources:

  • Chen, Mingwei. Wave energy power generation device. U.S. Patent Number 12398689, filed January 16, 2025, and published online on August 26, 2025. Patent URL (for desktop use only): https://ppubs.uspto.gov/pubwebapp/external.html?q=(12398689)&db=USPAT&type=ids