The System
- Details
- Category: Tuvalu
The system, named TUVALU, is a simple, robust and economic system that takes advantage of the movement of ocean waves to produce net energy (0% CO2 emissions, low environmental impact, etc..).
The idea is utilizing buoyancy force and its vertical displacement of a buoy anchored to the sea bed. The force is then transformed into electric energy through a mechanism in the interior of the aforementioned floating body. Recuperation of the cable is achieved by using the electronic generator as an electronically powered engine thereby consuming a low percentage of the energy extracted from the wave. This guarantees a constant tension in the cable.
The chain or cable coils in each of the floating cylinders. These cylinders rotate inside the main structure. The effect would be similar to an inverted Yo-Yo; when stretching the cord, the Yo-Yo turns.
At the other end of the chain or cable, a weight or ballast is attached to anchor the system to the sea bed.
In the case of the buoy (both cylinders and the main structure), when it rises with the wave, the cables stretch the cylinders and cause them to rotate. The mechanical energy obtain in the cylinders is converted to electrical energy by means of a generator connected to the transmission.
In this prototype, energy will be dissipated. In the future, however, this energy will be transported to the coast by means of electric cables on the sea bed. On the cost there will be a station to convert electricity to the quality conditions demanded by electricity companies
Even though the physic principle is the same, ARLAS INVEST has achieved in the latest versions of the design, a compact set reducing manufacturing costs considerably and allowing floats self-cleaning to prevent marine fauna incrustation. We also have to mention that output improvements are due to substitute pneumatic energy (that stabilizes the intermittent energy flux) for electronic power that manages more efficiently all the parameters of the system.
Low maintenance cost is due to the fact that all mechanisms are hermetically closed inside the buoy preventing any contact with sea water.
The system is flexible to rough weather conditions, a very important characteristic as many similar systems have failed because of this reason. The buoy is anchored to the sea bed and accompanies waves, no matter if they are 1 or 10 meter high (in the cylinders there is enough cable length to rise above the level of waves and tides).
