Wave Trap

Abstract

The patent describes a device intended to both attenuate water waves efficiently, and efficiently convert the attenuated energy to useful energy, while having minimal negative environmental impact. The device consists of a flexible slab that rests upon a rigid but permeable horizontal plane between surface and bottom. The slab is alternatively pushed away from the plane, and alternatively it is pressing hard on the plane. The resulting force may be converted to hydraulic energy using established technology. The critical parameters are the submerged weight per area and elasticity of the slab, equations for which are given in the patent.

1 . A device for capturing energy from sea waves, consisting of a flexible slab, the density of which is distinct from that of water, and which rests on or under a permeable, rigid, and roughly horizontal plane, located at such a depth between the surface and the bottom that the waves are able to press the slab away from the plane during a part of the wave phase, which requires that the slab has a submerged weight per area that is nonzero but the absolute value of which is less than the absolute value of the maximal hydrostatic pressure on it caused by the waves; furthermore the device is characterized by the slab and plane having an extent in the direction of propagation of the waves of at least half the wavelength of the incoming waves. 
   
   
       2 . The same device as in  1  where the plane consists of hinged segments, and where the plane has been anchored in the bottom in such a way that one or several attachment legs are exposed to vertical forces that can be converted to useful work in a device that can be driven by linear motion. 
   
   
       3 . The same device as in  1  or  2  where the elevation of the device is adjustable so as to allow for the wave attenuation efficiency to be optimized.