AU2022218536B2

AU2022218536B2 - Adaptive flexible hybrid energy systems of solar, wave and wind for utility scale plants

Info

Publication number: AU2022218536B2
Application number: AU2022218536A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Thanh Tri Lam
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2022-08-17
Filing date: 2022-08-17
Publication date: 2023-09-28
Anticipated expiration: 2042-08-17
Also published as: AU2022218536A1

Abstract

This invention focuses to the development of the Adaptive Flexible Hybrid Energy Systems of Solar, Wave, and Wind (HESSWW) including its subsystems and components such as the 3DFPNFO (a 3D flexible floating structure), the Flexible Interlinked Wave Energy System (FIWES), transmission systems, damping systems and the Adaptive Solar Energy System (ASES). Wind turbines are also included. Integrations of the above subsystems are also included. 1/35 DRAWINGS The Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB) (2) Hollow Tube (12) Circular Rope Supports (13) Tensional Rope/ Cable (a) 13 12( (b) 1-2 (c) Figure 1 The Compressional Beam (a) (b) (c) Figure 2

Description

1/35

DRAWINGS

The Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB)

(2) Hollow Tube

(12) Circular Rope Supports

(13) Tensional Rope/ Cable

(a)

13 12(

(b)

1-2

(c)

Figure 1

The Compressional Beam

(a) (b) (c)

Figure 2

TITLE: ADAPTIVE FLEXIBLE HYBRID ENERGY SYSTEMS OF SOLAR, WAVE AND WIND FOR UTILITY SCALE PLANTS FIELD

[0001] It is related to the fields of:

(1) Ocean Engineering and Structural Engineering (Structural Mechanics, Structural Dynamics, Fluid Mechanics (Hydrodynamics) and Finite Element

Method for dynamic fluid-structure Interaction analysis).

(2) Wave energy convertors, wind turbines, damping systems, mechanical power

transmission systems.

SUMMARY

[0002] Floating energy systems require technical improvements in adapting to the

hydrodynamics environment while reaching desired cost efficiency for generating

electricity. The matter is aimed to be solved based on technical solutions of structures

combining energy systems of wave and solar and wind while stabilizing the structure

on the body of water.

DESCRIPTION

1.1 Drive Beam

[0003] A Drive Beam is a beam functional as both a drive shaft and a beam. It is capable

to both twisting moments and bending moments.

1.2 The Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB) (Figure 1).

[0004] The CPRB is developed for structures of energy systems such as floating energy

systems and grounding energy systems, including wave energy systems and solar

tracking systems. It is also applied for systems of floating objects.

[0005] The development purposes of the CPRB related to its structure are:

(1) These energy systems require their structures to be light,

(2) Lengths of its beams, (floating) posts, drive shafts or any type of hollow tube

components may need to be long enough.

[0006] Components and arrangements of the CPRB:

(1) A Hollow Tube (#2). The Hollow Tube might be a (hollow) cylinder, or square,

or rectangular, or polygon (pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon...).

(2) A number of Tensional Ropes/ Cables (#13).

(3) A number of Circular Rope Supports (#12). The shape of the Circular Rope

Supports is just small enough to fit inside the Hollow Tube. The gap between

the installed Circular Rope Supports and the Hollow Tube needs to be small

enough for installation and operation. The thickness of the Circular Rope

Supports must be enough for structural stability. The Circular Rope Supports

(#12) are secured to the Tensional Ropes/ Cables (#13).

(4) The Tensional Ropes/ Cables are stressed and positioned inside the Hollow

Tube. Its two ends are secured to the two ends of the Hollow Tube.

(5) If the number of Tensional Ropes/ Cables is more than one, these Tensional

Ropes/ Cables are distributed closest to the wall of the Hollow Tube, depending on loads the CPRB bears. Figure 1 (c) presents some cases of two, three orfourTensional Ropes/ Cables distributed.

[0007] Operations of the CPRB:

(1) The CPRB can work as a beam, a (floating) post, a drive shaft or a Drive Beam

in structures of energy systems. The Tensional Ropes/ Cables improve bending

resistance of the Hollow Tube while keeping the CPRB to be light and capable

to be assembled fully at factories. Its smaller size and weight help for

transportation and onsite installation.

(2) Bending resistance of the CPRB is improved thanks to contributions of the

Tensional Ropes/ Cables which make the tensional/ compressional areas of

cross sections of the Hollow Tube to be improved: the tensional area of the

wall of the Hollow Tube is reduced and its compressional area is enlarged. This

leads to the tensional area of the CPRB (combined from the Hollow Tube and

the Ropes/ Cables) and the compressional area of the CPRB (enlarged in

comparison with the Hollow Tube alone) are both to be more capable for

tensional and compressional forces. Thus, bending resistance of the Hollow

Tube is improved using prestressed Tensional Ropes/ Cables fitted inside.

[0008] Tensional Ropes/ Cables can help long CPRBs to be strait enough.

1.3 The Compressional Beam (Figure 2)

[0009] It is a beam, a group of beams, a frame or a combined frame-beams that is

compressional.

[0010] The main function of the Compressional Beam in proposed structures such as

the Surrounding Prestressed Rope Beam is to bear loads causing internal

compressional forces. It can also be used as a Drive Beam if its cross section is

appropriate for twisting moments.

[0011] The Compressional Beam is a main part of the Dual Prestressed Rope Beam

(DPRB).

[0012] There are three types of Compressional Beams:

(1) Type 1: Beam only (Figure 2 (a))

(2) Type 2: Frame only (Figure 2 (b))

(3) Type 3: Frame-Beam (Figure 2 (c))

1.4 The Rope/ Cable Supporting Clamp and the Beam's Crossed Rope (Figure 3)

[0013] The Rope/ Cable Supporting Clamp (#1) is the part that mounts ropes/ cables/

bars/ beams and secures them to Compressional Beams to form a Surrounding

Prestressed Rope Beam (SPRB).

[0014] The Beam's Crossed Ropes" (#5 in Figure 3 (d)) are crossed ropes connecting

every two consecutive Rope/ Cable Supporting Clamps.

1.5 The Surrounding Prestressed Rope Beam (Figure 3)

[0015] The Surrounding Prestressed Rope Beam (SPRB) is developed in order to bear

light weights such as solar panels over long spans subjected to dynamic loads caused

by winds or rotations of the SPRB, which require the SPRB to be capable to multiple

directions of loads.

[0016] The SPRB comprises a Compressional Beam with prestressed Ropes/ Cables

distributed along and around to improve bending resistant in all directions whereas

its weight is light. Furthermore, if the Compressional Beam is also a Drive Beam, the

SPRB is capable to rotate masses mounted on it such as solar panels.

[0017] The word "Rope" mentioned here implies rope, cable, bar or even beam, which

are capable to tensional force. However, the flexibility and light weight of rope or cable

are preferred.

[0018] The SPRB composes of:

(1) Compressional Beams positioned inside as the core. These Compressional

Beams are responsible for compressional forces.

(2) Beam's Surrounding Ropes, which are ropes distributed around the

Compressional Beams. These Beam's Surrounding Ropes are responsible for

tensional forces.

(3) Rope/ Cable Supporting Clamps distributed along the Compressional Beams.

(4) Beam's Crossed Ropes connecting every two consecutive Rope/ Cable

Supporting Clamps.

[0019] The Compressional Beams and Ropes are secured together via the Rope/ Cable

Supporting Clamps.

[0020] Characteristics of the SPRB:

(1) capable to bear dynamic loads in different directions, including wind loads and

earthquakes.

(2) light and capable to reach long spans.

(3) developed to bear light weights such as solar panels.

(4) capable to work as a drive shaft/Drive Beam for rotating arrays of solar panels.

(5) Developed to be a type of linkages of 3DFPNFO (The System of Three

Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects), which might

require to maintain constant distances between every two connected points

of the two consecutive floating objects.

(6) The Beam's Surrounding Ropes are able to be stressed further differently and

separately in order to adjust the Compressional Beam in the most possible

straight shape under all cases of loads and Angles of Rotation.

(7) The quantity of Ropes and their specifications depend on different

circumstances such as loads and directions of loads. The quantity of Ropes can

be one or more. The quantity of Compressional Beams can also be one or

more. Some Ropes can be replaced with straight beams or curved beams or

bars.

(8) Cross sections of a SPRB are different in shapes and sizes, depending on how

loads are distributed alongthe SPRB. Thus, the Rope/Cable Supporting Clamps

of a SPRB are different accordingly.

(9) Functions of the Rope/ Cable Supporting Clamps, which is a part of the SPRB,

are included in the SPRB: the Beam's Surrounding Ropes can be stressed further or less using a mechanism integrated in the Rope/ Cable Supporting

Clamps; The Beam's Surrounding Ropes can also be repositioned closer to or

further from the Compressional Beam using the "Slide and Lock" Mechanism

integrated in the Rope/ Cable Supporting Clamps.

(10) The SPRB can be continuous over supports.

[0021] This type of light weight beam, the SPRB, is developed for long span structures.

The SPRB aims to bear more loads while saving cost for materials, transportation,

installation and reducing number of posts supporting beams.

[0022] The SPRB is used for any kind of structures, especially energy systems such as

wind, solar and wave based, either floating or grounding, with or without solar

tracking systems. It is also used for any kind of floating structures, especially flexible

floating structures for coping/ adapting with large displacements caused by waves.

[0023] If the SPRB is used for bending moments only, the profile of its Compressional

Beam can be a frame or in the shapes of L, C, Z, T, H, I, Round and Polygon (such as

square, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon).

[0024] If the SPRB is used for both bending and twisting moments, the profile of its

Compressional Beam can be in the shapes of Round or Polygon (such as square,

pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon).

[0025] If the SPRB does not need to be capable to twisting moments for rotating, its

Compressional Beams does not need to include the function of twisting. In this case,

the SPRB is still capable with features to be applicable in solar energy systems without

tracking, eitherfloating or grounding, such as agricultural solar or floating solar energy

systems which require cheaper structures and long spans.

[0026] Figure 3 demonstrates some types of the SPRB.

[0027] Figure 3 (al), (a2), (a3) and (a4), representing Type A of SPRB: this type of SPRB

is based on a single Compressional Beam which is also a Drive Beam. The type is

appropriate for structures of energysystems (solar, wave, wind)with orwithoutsolar

tracking systems, ether floating or grounding.

[0028] Figure 3 (b1), (b2), (b3) and (b4),representing Type B of SPRB: this type of SPRB

is based on a single Compressional Beam which is a frame. The type is appropriate for

structures of energy systems (solar, wave, wind turbines) without solar tracking

systems, ether floating or grounding.

[0029] Figure 3 (c1), (c2), (c3) and (c4), representing Type C of SPRB: this type of SPRB

is based on a Compressional Beam which is composed of a Drive Beam and a frame.

This type is appropriate for structures of energy systems (solar, wave, wind turbines)

with or without solar tracking systems, ether floating or grounding. It is more

appropriate for longer beam bearing heavier loads. It is also more capable to dynamic

loads such as earthquake than the SPRB Type A.

[0030] Figure 3 (d) demonstrates how to stabilise two consecutive the Rope/ Cable

Supporting Clamps using Beam's Crossed Ropes (#5). These ropes are important in

maintaining the stability of the SPRB.

[0031] The SPRB can be enhanced with Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB)s

integrated.

1.6 The Dual Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)

[0032] The DPRB is composed from the Surrounding Prestressed Rope Beam (SPRB)

and the Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB). There are three types of DPRBs:

(1) Type 1: Prestressed Ropes/ Cables are externally secured to Compressional

Beams. The Prestressed Ropes/ Cables are distributed around the

Compressional Beams. Thus, Type 1 is the Surrounding Prestressed Rope Beam

(SPRB).

(2) Type 2: Prestressed Ropes/ Cables are internally secured to Compressional

Beams. The Prestressed Ropes/ Cables are distributed inside the

Compressional Beams. Thus, type 2 is the Centred Prestressed Rope Beam

(CPRB).

(3) Type 3: Prestressed Ropes/ Cables are internally and externally secured to

Compressional Beams. Type 3, which is the combination of the SPRB and the

CPRB, is the full version of the Dual Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB).

[0033]The Prestressed Ropes/Cables helptoenhance bending resistance of the DPRB.

It can be produced at factories by skilled workers and equipment, leading to saving

costs of manufacturing, transportation and onsite installation.

[0034] The DPRB is developed for structures of energy systems such as floating energy

systems and grounding energy systems, including wave energy systems and solar

tracking systems. It is also applied for systems of floating objects.

1.7 Elevational Crossed Dual Axes Pivot Arm (ECDAPA) (Figure 4)

[0035] The ECDAPA is developed to be integrated in solar trackers with minimized

twisting moments for both axes. It composes of two rotational axes with technical

features developed as follows:

(1) Rotations of both axes are elevational. In other words, both axes are not

vertical at all times.

(2) Each of both axes are right angle (90 degrees crossed) to the other and they

are in the same plane. Thus, these axes have a common point.

[0036] The reason of the above technical features is to be able to distribute masses

equally in two sides of each of both axes, helping to minimize twisting moments of

both axes at once. Thanks to having a common point as mentioned above, twisting

moments of both axes are minimized at the same time by moving the centre of mass

to the common point. The above method using the common point for moment

minimization with respect to both the two axes is called "The Twisting Moment

Minimization Method for Elevational Crossed Dual Axes" (TMMM4DA). The above

dual axes are called "The Elevational Crossed Dual Axes".

[0037] In addition, the ECDAPA allows to arrange solar panels in arrays similar to that

of single axis solartracking systems. Such way of arrangement helps to avoid rotations

of vertical axis, leading to saving area of land around the tracker.

[0038] The ECDAPA is composed of parts presented in Figure 4, in which:

(1) Each of the following axes: the first axis (the axis of the Drive Beam #7 in Figure

4 (b)) and the second axis (the axis of #6 in Figure 4 (b)) have to be 90 degrees

crossed:

a. right angle to each other and

b. in the same plane (having one common point called XY).

(2) If any mass (the mass of the tilting array of solar panels) having its centre of

mass at the point XY, the mass is balanced (or twisting moments equal zero)

with respect to both axes.

(3) Solar panels are secured on the tilting beams #10 and distributed equally in

two side of the first axis #7 in order to minimize twisting moments of the first

axis. The "Slide and Lock" Mechanism #11 can move the Tilting Beams #10

including solar panels up or down in order to minimize twisting moments of

both the first axis and the second axis because both axes have the same

common point XY (The Centre of mass of the sectioned tilting array of solar

panels is called point M. The above adjustment is to move the point M closest

to the common point XY. Thus, twisting moments of both axes are minimized

simultaneously).

1.8 The Flexible Porous Net of Wave Absorbers/ Dampers (FPNWA/D) (Figure 5)

[0039] The FPNWA/D is a net composed of Flexible Elements (#1in Figure 5 (a)) such

as ropes or cables and any kinds of wave absorbers or dampers (#2 in Figure 5 (a))

which are secured to nodes of the net. In addition, the FPNWA/D also has Flexible

Crossed Elements (#3 in Figure 5 (b)) for improving resistant of displacements/

oscillations. The FPNWA/D can be two or three dimensions.

[0040] The FPNWA/D is basically a distributed floating damping system. It is applied

to damp other floating objects. Its net can be laid in any direction surrounding an area

or underneath or connecting to other floating objects in order to provide the

capabilities of:

(1) Absorbing wave energy leading to reducing oscillations of floating objects.

(2) Damping.

(3) Mooring.

[0041] The FPNWA/D can also be integrated in the System of Three-Dimensional

Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects (3DFPNFO). Groups of Wave

Absorbers/ Dampers (WA/D) can be linked together using the Net of Vertical

Connections, the Net of Horizontal Upper Connections and the Net of Horizontal

Lower Connections, making the FPNWA/D to be a 3DFPNFO. However, in this case,

the 3DFPNFO with WA/D integrated, which is now a distributed damping system, is

applied for damping instead of floating and stabilizing objects on the surface of water

like the general 3DFPNFO.

[0042] Some of special typical types of the wave absorbers can be applied for the

FPNWA/D are:

(1) Wave absorbers containing liquid partially filled such as liquid tanks/ floats.

(2) Used tyres.

[0043] Figure 5 demonstrates a FPNWA/D.

[0044] It is noticed that, a vertical rope/ cable with one or more wave absorber(s)

hanging vertically deep in water and underneath a floating object is also a simplified

version of the FPNWA/D.

[0045] As a Wave Absorber/ Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Damper (WA/IHBD) is a

specific type of a Wave Absorber/ Damper (WA/D), the Flexible Porous Net of Wave

Absorbers/ Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (FPNWA/IHBD) is a specific type of

the FPNWA/D.

1.9 The System of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects

(3DFPNFO) (Figure 6)

[0046] In addition to typical methods to station, individually, offshore floating objects

such as wind turbines, a solution of gathering these floating objects, if they are small

enough, working together as a whole, is developed.

[0047] If floating objects stand alone, they may need to be moored or damped

individually in order to prevent capsizing or moving away from the designated

positions. Instead of doing so, this solution is developed to provide a method for

stability of large quantity of floating or submerged independent distributed objects:

how to gather these objects working by linking together in coping with dynamic loads

of wind, waves and earthquakes. In other words, each floating object relies, flexibly,

to other objects of the whole to maintain its stability on the body of water.

[0048] Types of objects examined:

(1) Three-dimensional (3D) floating objects. For example, these objects are

floating structures, floating wave energy converters, floating wind turbines or

floating solar islands/ arrays.

(2) Submerged objects. For example, they are submerged wave energy

converters, anchors, wave absorbers, dampers, ...

(3) All 3D floating objects require capsizing prevention whereas submerged

objects might not need to meet the requirement.

[0049] The 3DFPNFO mainly comprising:

(1) Elements, which are linkages of ropes connecting floating or submerged

objects. The word "rope" mentioned here implies rope, cable, bar, beam or

frame. However, the flexibility and light weight of rope or cable are preferred

where it is applicable. Depending on circumstances, the following Elements

might also be added: a) Compressional Beam or Dual Prestressed Rope Beam

(DPRB) and b) The Stretchable Vertical Crossed Elements (SVCE).

(2) Floating or submerged objects. The submerged objects can be simply masses,

dampers or wave absorbers.

(3) Anchoring/ mooring/wave absorbing/ damping systems orthe Flexible Porous

Net of Wave Absorbers/ Dampers (FPNWA/D) can be integrated.

(4) The method connecting/ securing these objects together to assure the

geometrical flexibility and stability of the whole system of 3DFPNFO.

[0050] Purposes of technical development of the 3DFPNFO:

(1) Guaranteeing that all 3D floating objects are uncapsizable on the surface of

water subjected to waves, winds, earthquakes or any other kind of loads.

(2) Maintaining distances, relatively, between these consecutive floating or

submerged objects.

(3) Limiting horizontal movements of the floating or submerged objects caused by

waves, currents of water or winds or any kind of loads.

(4) Limiting vertical movements of the floating or submerged objects. Damping

systems may need to be integrated to reduce oscillations of the floating

objects.

(5) Gaining further vertical movements, within limits, as required by stability

conditions, of the floating objects: if Floating Damping Wave Energy Convertor

(FDWEC)s, which are wave energy convertors with dampers integrated, are

included, an appropriate solution might be included to gain more potential

energy for the FDWECs generating electricity.

[0051] Floating objects on the surface of water may be required to be uncapsizable.

For this purpose, each 3D floating objects must be connected via Elements from at

least 4 points that are not in the same plane. These points are called nodes. The object

can be modelled as a 3D frame which has trusses linking from each node to all other

nodes for dynamic fluid-structure integration analysis. If an object has 4 nodes, the

number of trusses is 6.

[0052] Arrangements of the Elements:

[0053] There are three types of arrangements of Elements integrated for the stability

of the 3DFPNFO: the Net of Horizontal Lower Connections; the Net of Vertical

Connections and the Net of Horizontal Upper Connections. They are described below:

[0054] The Net of Horizontal Lower Connections (Figure 6 (a), #3):

(1) Firstly, each floating object must have at least 3 nodes for horizontal lower

connections. The ideal number of nodes for horizontal connections is 4.

Horizontal connection is the connection between two nodes of two

consecutive floating objects via an Element assumed to be parallel with the horizontal plane. All the three mentioned nodes and Elements connecting from these nodes to consecutive floating objects are assumed to be in the same horizontal plane as well. These three nodes are called (Horizontal) Lower

Nodes. Thus, all floating objects are connecting together, from Lower Nodes

of every floating object to selected Lower Nodes of consecutive floating

objects. These connections are called Horizontal Lower Connections. All

Elements of the Horizontal Lower Connections form a net that is called the Net

of Horizontal Lower Connections.

(2) The Elements of the Net of Horizontal Lower Connections are called the

Horizontal Lower Elements (#3).

(3) So, the first requirement of connections of the 3DFPNFO is the establishment

of the Net of Horizontal Lower Connections for the group of floating objects.

(4) The Lower Nodes of a floating object form a plane called "The Base Plane of

Floating Object" (BPFO)

(5) Every floating object also have at least 3 points defining another plane that, if

the water is static, it is the same with the plane of the surface of water. The

plane is call "Equilibrium Plane of Floating Object" (EPFO).

(6) In designs of the Net of Horizontal Lower Connections, the BPFO needs to be:

a) Parallel with EPFO which is horizontal.

b) The elevation of the BPFO is as low as possible, even positioned deeply in

water. If the elevation of BPFO is lower than that of EPFO, the system

requires less horizontal force for holding the floating objects from

capsizing.

c) Might contains the centre of mass of the floating object in some

circumstances.

d) The centre of mass of the floating object should be as low as possible,

ideally lower than the EPFO.

(7) The Net of Horizontal Lower Connections contributes the following functions

to the 3DFPNFO:

a) Holding/ mooring/anchoring the floating objects within the designated

positions.

b) Contributing to maintaining distances between consecutive floating

objects.

c) Providing damping effects vertically if the Elements are stressed hard

enough.

d) It is one of the parts ofthe the 3DFPNFO required for its stability.

[0055] The Net of Vertical Connections (Figure 6 (e), #5):

(1) The 3DFPNFO requires stability related to capsizing 3D floating objects. Thus,

the 3DFPNFO integrates the Net of Vertical Connections for stability of its third

dimension, which is the condition of Stability for capsizing prevention. The Net

of Vertical Connections is described below:

(2) Beside at least 3 Lower Nodes in the Horizontal Plane (two dimensions) of the

Horizontal Lower Connections mentioned above, every floating object has at

least one node, which is called Upper Node, for vertical connections to secure

the stability of the third dimension of the object. If these Upper Nodes are

being hold/ moored properly, the floating object will not capsize. Upper Nodes

of every floating object are connected to selected Lower Nodes of consecutive

floating objects. This type of (vertical) connection is called Vertical Connection.

(3) Elements of the Vertical Connection, which is called Vertical Crossed Elements,

form a net called the Net of Vertical Connections. There are two types of

Vertical Crossed Elements: Standard Vertical Crossed Elements, which are un

stretchable, and Stretchable Vertical Crossed Elements. Flexible Vertical

Crossed Elements such as ropes or cables are preferred.

(4) The Net of Vertical Connections provides the following functions to the

3DFPNFO:

a) It helps to prevent capsizing: if the floating object is moved upward by a

wave (Figure 6 (g)), the Upper Node of the floating object is moved far away

from its equilibrium position, resultingto pulling and lifting up the bottoms

of other linked consecutive floating objects (by pulling forces #9 in Figure

6 (g). The pulling forces #9 are caused by tensions of the Elements/ Ropes).

In addition, if there are also links from Upper Nodes of the floating object

to Upper Nodes of the linked consecutive floating objects (Figure 6 (c), #4), the tops of the linked Consecutive floating objects are being pulled as well.

Thus, the motions of the floating object pull the linked consecutive floating

objects. As a result, the inertial forces caused by the linked consecutive

floating objects response and prevent the motions. It means that the

floating object is prevented from both capsizing and oscillating. Thus, if a

large numberof floating objects interact together, the tops of these objects

tend to stay close to their equilibrium positions. The floating objects are

not only being hold from capsizing but also being damped as well.

b) Holding/ mooring/anchoring top of the floating objects within the

designated positions as explained above.

c) Contributing to maintaining distances between consecutive floating

objects.

d) Providing damping effects vertically as explained above.

e) It is one of the components of the the 3DFPNFO required for its stability.

(5) If the 3DFPNFO includes FDWECs, the Net of Vertical Connections might be

integrated with Stretchable Vertical Crossed Elements, which are the Multi

Vertical Rectangular Elements (Figure 8 (a), #1) or the Excessive Vertical

Crossed Elements (Figure 8 (b), #2) or the Vertical Crossed Spring Elements

(Figure 8 (c), #3)), for reaching larger, but still within limit, vertical

displacements. As a result, more potential energy is gained for generating

electricity using wave energy convertors such as the FDWECs.

[0056] The Net of Horizontal Upper Connections (Figure 6 (c), #4): Elements of

connections between Upper Nodes of consecutive floating objects form a net called

The Net of Horizontal Upper Connections, which is parallel with the Net of Horizontal

Lower Connections. The Elements of the Net of Horizontal Upper Connections are

called the Horizontal Upper Elements (#4). The functions of the Net of Horizontal

Upper Connections are the same to that of the Net of Horizontal Lower Connections.

However, unlike the Net of Horizontal Lower Connections, which contributes stability

to the bottoms of floating objects, the Net of Horizontal Upper Connections

contributes stability to the tops of the floating objects.

[0057] In addition to the Horizontal Lower/ Upper Elements, the Net of Horizontal

Lower/ Upper Connections also has the Horizontal Lower Crossed Elements (Figure 6

(b), #8b) and the Horizontal Upper Crossed Elements (Figure 6 (d), #8d).

[0058] Technical Features of the 3DFPNFO:

[0059] The 3DFPNFO is developed based on the identification of the dynamic

interactions between objects of the 3DFPNFO which is in turn relying on three

dimensional flexible structural connections between floating objects via Elements

with adding damping systems and/or the FPNWA/Ds. The structure of the 3DFPNFO is

flexible (geometrically variable) thanks to flexible Elements integrated or joint

connections of Elements applied. The features of the 3DFPNFO, which can be proven

with results from computations of dynamic fluid-structure interaction analysis, are

described below:

(1) Group Damping: The whole 3DFPNFO is a damping system of which the floating

objects plays both roles: damping and being damped in group. When an object

moves far enough from the equilibrium position, tensions appear in the

Elements between the object and its linked consecutive objects, transferring

and distributing the energy of motions from the object to all other linked

consecutive objects of the system through Elements. It can be understood

that, in this case, the object shares its displacements to all other consecutive

objects of the system. Thus, a large enough number of objects on the surface

of water behave in the same manner, neutralizing motions of every object of

the system and keeping Elements to be tensional (to be closer to straight) at

all times, which, in turn, limit these objects moving too farfrom the equilibrium

positions: the whole systems is being damped because all its objects are

oscillating closer to the equilibrium positions. Thus, it can be concluded that

damping effects is created based on dynamic fluid-structure interactions

between the objects, which are both damping and being damped.

Suppose that all Elements are springs, the system is obviously a damping

system, of which the floating objects are both damping and being damped. If

these springs are replaced with elements having much harder stiffness such as ropes/cables/ bars/beams, the system still remains to be damped but displacements of the objects with be much less. The efficiency of this type of damping can be proven with dynamic fluid-structure interaction analysis. If floating objects are separated, oscillations of them are much larger. In contrast, when these floating objects are connected with ropes or cables, their oscillations caused by waves are reduced significantly.

(2) Group Mooring/ Positioning/ Distancing between objects: as the tensional

forces appear in Elements between each object and other linked consecutive

objects, the object is being moored by its linked consecutive objects. Thus,

these floating objects are mooring and being moored together, reducing

mooring/ anchoring to ground directly. In addition, the Elements keep the

distance between two nodes not to be greater than the length of the linkage

(if the linkage is a rope/cable/bar) or keep the distance between two nodes to

be fixed and equal to the length of the linkages (if the linkage is an element of

truss/ frame/ beam capable to compressional force)

(3) Group Absorbing (Wave Energy): The 3DFPNFO, which includes the FPNWA/D

(Figure 6 (f)) are beneficial in absorbing wave energy and reducing oscillations

of the floating objects. The FPNWA/D also provides efficiencies of Group

Damping to the 3DFPNFO as well.

(4) Group Stability: thanks to the method of 3D flexible connections of floating

objects described above, including the effects of damping, mooring and wave

energy absorbing systems, the floating objects are able to be stable when

linking/ connecting together to form the 3DFPNFO.

[0060] If the 3DFPNFO is applied for energy systems which requires less oscillations,

damping systems or the FPNWA/D should be integrated. If the 3DFPNFO is applied for

energy systems which include FDWECs, the need of gaining more potential energy

with the 3DFPNFO leads to the integration of The Stretchable Vertical Crossed

Elements. In addition, the structure of the 3DFPNFO can also be beneficial when

grounding instead of floating. In this case, all features and components/ devices

related to floating are excluded.

[0061] If the 3DFPNFO requires clearance for waterways between its arrays, The

Solution of Arch Waterway through Linked Floating Objects can be integrated as well.

1.10 The Solution of Arch Waterway through Linked Floating Objects (SAWFO) (Figure 7)

[0062] Typical floating photovoltaic systems usually use walkways supported by floats

for maintenance operations and other activities. A cheaper solution for linking floating

objects especially for floating solar arrays of large power plants, is: using waterway by

boats instead of walkways. The solution provides an alternative method for structural

connections between consecutive floating objects such as solar arrays. The

replacement connections must maintain the stability of floating objects while allowing

boats going through.

[0063] The SAWFO are presented in Figure 7. Instead of using the flexible ropes for

the 3DFPNFO as showed in Figure 7 (Span (a)), a solution such as each of the seven

options presented in Figure 7 (Spans (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (g), (h)) can be applied. The

solution is, in fact, an interpretation of the System of Three-Dimensional Flexible

Porous Net of Multiple FloatingObjects (3DFPNFO) with arches as waterway for boats.

[0064] The SAWFO might be incorporated with the Flexible Porous Net of Wave

Absorbers/ Dampers (FPNWA/D) or some other types of additional mooring/

anchoring for stability of the floating objects. It is a part of the 3DFPNFO.

1.11 The Stretchable Vertical Crossed Elements (SVCE) (Figure 8)

[0065] The purpose of the method using SVCE is to gain more potential energy for

wave energy convertors thanks to furthervertical displacements of the floats reaching

to higher or lower levels due to taller waves.

[0066] Figure 8 (d) and Figure 8 (e) show that the SVCE with springs of #3 allow further

vertical displacements than the Standard Vertical Crossed Elements of #8. Based on

the idea, the developed method provides three options for gaining more potential

energy as showed in Figure 8 (a) and Figure 8 (b) and Figure 8 (c) respectively. The

built-in spring on top of the Linear Motion Electric Generators absorbs the gaining potential energy then redistribute the stored energy during motions of the next phases of generating electricity.

[0067] Figure 8 presents three typical solutions of the SVCE: the Multi Vertical

Rectangular Elements (#1), the Excessive Vertical Crossed Elements (#2) and the

Vertical Crossed Spring Elements (#3). These solutions allow further relative

displacements of every two consecutive posts.

[0068] The method is applied for energy systems with Floating Damping Wave Energy

Convertor (FDWEC)s which are wave energy convertors with built-in dampers.

1.12 The Flexible Compressible Net of Ropes (FCNR) (Figure 9)

[0069] The FCNR is developed to apply for structures of energy systems such as

floating or grounding solar energy systems.

[0070]The word "rope" here implies both rope or cable which are capable to bear

tensional forces.

[0071] The FCNR is a combination of two or three-dimensional flexible structures of

ropes orcables and Compressional Bars forsupporting light loads such as solar panels,

particularly, light reinforced flexible solar panels. The Compressional Bars are secured

in the FCNR where required to be capable to compressional forces. Otherwise, where

required to be capable to tensional forces, ropes or cables are responsible. It can be

understood that these Compressional Bars are "floating" individually in the net of

ropes to form a structure called FCNR.

[0072] The key technical feature of the FCNR is to be able to bear compressional forces

where required although it is a flexible structure of ropes/ cables.

[0073] Generally, the FCNR comprises:

(1) A three-dimensional (3D) Net of Ropes/ Cables, including Nets of Tensional

Vertical Crossed Elements (#2) and Nets of Downward/ Upward Hanging

Ropes/ Cables (#5 and #6), and

(2) A number of Compressional Bars (#3) secured to the 3D Net of Ropes/ Cables

where required to be capable to compressional forces.

[0074] Particularly, for supporting arrays of solar panels or similar loads, the FCNR is

mainly composed of:

(1) A Net of Tensional Vertical Crossed Elements. These Elements are Ropes/

Cables/ Bars (#2).

(2) Compressional Bars (#3).

(3) An Upper Net of Ropes/ Cables (#4).

(4) A Net of Downward Hanging Ropes/ Cables (#5) for downward loads and a Net

of Upward Hanging Ropes/ Cables (#6) for upward loads

(5) A Lower Net of Ropes/ Cables (#7) might be integrated.

[0075] The arrangement of the above components is described below:

(1) Tensional Vertical Crossed Elements (#2) connect from the top (or the bottom)

of every Compressional Bar (#3) to the bottom (or the top) of its consecutive

Compressional Bars (Figure 9 (a)).

(2) Top ends of Compressional Bars are secured to and distributed in the Upper

Net (#4) in (Figure 9 (a)).

(3) The Downward Hanging Ropes/ Cables (#5) in (Figure 9 (b)) and the Upward

Hanging Ropes/ Cables (#6) in (Figure 9 (c)) are secured to bodies of every

Compressional Bar. These Hanging Ropes/ Cables are downward (or upward)

curved, which help to transfer all forces caused by loads to Posts (#1).

(4) A Lower Net (#7) in (Figure 9 (d)) might be added: Bottom ends of

Compressional Bars are secured to the Lower Net.

(5) Finally, all Nets of the FCNR are secured to Posts (#1) of the system structure

where the FCNR requires supports of Posts.

[0076] Technical features and benefits of the FCNR:

(1) The main features of the FCNR are:

(a) It is a combination of bars-ropes structure. Compressional Bars secure

to nets of ropes/ cables. These bars are responsible for compressional

forces which help the flexible structure of ropes/ cables to maintain

its required shapes in all cases of loads. The ropes/ cables are

responsible for tensional forces.

(b) These Compressional Bars are floating in the FCNR.

(2) It is able to work like beams for supporting solar panels. It can hold the Upper

Net to be close to straight or flat.

(3) It does not need to be anchored directly to ground. It just needs to be secured

to posts.

(4) It is convenient for floating solar structure as it is flexible and light.

(5) It is a good choice for light reinforced flexible solar panels due to its flexibility

and its capability to bear upward loads caused by wind on light solar panels.

(6) It is convenient for complex terrains due to its flexibility.

(7) It is a good choice for agricultural solar energy systems because it can be

designed to adapt tall or thin posts and long spans between posts, leaving

large space underneath arrays of solar panels or long distances between

posts.

(8) It is also a good choice for floating solar energy systems thanks to its

flexibility.

(9) It is good to both downward and upward loads thanks to Downward and

Upward Hanging Ropes/ Cables.

(10) The structure of FCNR is light and ease to manufacture, transport, install and

maintain because all components can be assembled together at factories by

skilled workers with appropriate equipment. Thus, it helps saving costs of

manufacturing and onsite installation.

[0077] Some Special Versions of FCNR:

[0078] The First Special Version of FCNR: It comprises Compressional Bars secured

together in V shape (Figure 9 (e)). Bottom ends of the Compressional Bars (#3) are attached to a rope (#5) of the Net of Downward Hanging Ropes. This version is more suitable to downward loads.

[0079] The second Special Version of FCNR: It comprises Compressional Bars secured

together in T shape (Figure 9 (f)). The Compressional Bars (#3) are attached to both

rope (#5) and rope (#6) of the Net of Downward Hanging Ropes and the Net of Upward

Hanging Ropes. This version is suitable to both downward and upward loads.

1.13 Definitions of Movable Group and Stationed Group, (Vertically) Slidable Float and Stationed Float, Bottom Position and Top Position, and Travel Range of Wave Energy

Systems.

[0080] Components of wave energy systems based on the System of Three

Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects (3DFPNFO) is divided into

two groups:

(1) Rotor Group: contents rotors of electric generators and mechanical power

transmission systems such as linear motion gear racks, Linear Motion Drive

Shafts, Rotational Drive Shafts and floats which are secured to the mechanical

power transmission systems.

(2) Stator Group: contents stators of electric generators and the rest of the wave

energy system, including floats which do not belong to the Rotor Group.

[0081] Depending on different proposed configurations of the system of 3DFPNFO,

one of the above Rotor/ Stator Groups is anchored/ moored and the other Group is

free. The anchored/ moored Rotor or Stator Group is called the Stationed Group. The

free Rotor or Stator Group is called the Movable Group. Elevations, where the

Stationed Group are positioned, are called Desired Variable Elevations. The Desired

Variable Elevations rely on waves at all times and are determined regarding to

maximizing wave energy harvested.

[0082] The relative motions between Movable Groups and Stationed Groups, which

implies the differential motions between stators and rotors of electric generators, help

to generate electricity.

[0083] Similarly, there are two groups of floats: Stationed Floats and (Vertically)

Slidable Floats. Stationed Floats support structures of the wave energy system floating

on the surface of water whereas (Vertically) Slidable Floats are allowed to slide

upwards/ downwards along (vertical) Floating Posts of structures supported by the

Stationed Floats.

[0084] The (Vertically) Slidable Floats are designed to be slidable linearly. They are

allowed to slide from Bottom PositionstoTop Positionswhich are located on the body

of the (vertical) Floating Posts. Both the Bottom and Top Positions are referred from

bottom/ top limit positions of vertical linear motions of the (Vertically) Slidable Floats,

defining travel distances of the (Vertically) Slidable Floats in comparison with the

Stationed Group. The travel distances from the Bottom Positions to the Top Positions

are called Travel Ranges.

[0085] Depending on styles of 3DFPNFO with respect to damping devices selected, the

Stationed Floats and the (Vertically) Slidable Floats can be combined or separated. If

they are combined, the Floats function as both the Stationed Floats and the (Vertically)

Slidable Floats. Details are presented in descriptions of components of the Flexible

Interlinked Wave Energy System (FIWES).

1.14 The Twisting Linear-to-Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TLRTS By DR)

(Figure 10 (a))

[0086] A typical dual axes solar tracker requires two separate drive motors for each of

the two axes. Thus, multiple trackers need a large number of drive motors leading to

higher cost of installation and maintenance.

[0087] The method developed here provides a different solution which is capable to

rotate multiple dual axes solar trackers with two drive motors connecting to two

independent mechanical power transmissions of the two axes.

[0088] Firstly, every solar tracker composes of:

(1) An Elevational Crossed Dual Axes Pivot Arm (ECDAPA) (#6 in Figure 10 (a))

(2) A post (#5 in Figure 10 (a)) supporting the ECDAPA.

(3) A drive shaft/ Drive Beam of the first axis (#7 in Figure 10 (a)) connecting all

the consecutive trackers for mechanical power transmission of the first axis.

[0089] While the Drive Beam of the first axis (#7) is rotating, the Drive Beam of the

second axis is being linearly pulled independently thanks to a mechanism eliminating

twisting motions created by the rotation of the first axis, enabling the mechanical

power transmission of the second axis connecting multiple trackers. The mechanism

is called the Twisting Moment Elimination Mechanism (TMEM) and the method

eliminating the twisting moments is called Twisting Moment Elimination Solution

(TMES). In addition, the Tensional Transmission Element of Ropes (#9) is not necessary

to be compressional or bendable. It is developed for tensional forces.

[0090]TMEM is a bar, a drive shaft, a twistable rope or a twistable flexible drive shaft

(#1), of which there are two universal joints (#2) at its two ends as required. In case of

a twistable rope, which is able to twist about at least 360 degrees between two ends,

the two universal joints might not be required. In addition, TMEM must be capable to

tensional force. The Tensional Transmission Element of Ropes is made of ropes or

cables.

[0091] Rotations of the drive shaft/ Drive Beam (#7) of the first axis being transferred

to the Tilting Structure (#6 and #8) are eliminated by and at the TMEM (#1 and #2).

Thus, motions of the Drive Beams of the second axis, by pulling #3 and #4 sequentially

through multiple trackers, are independent with that of the first axis.

[0092] Both the mechanical power transmissions of the two axes are able to transfer,

independently, power from its drive motors to rotate the respected axes of multiple

trackers.

[0093] The pulling direction #3 makes the Drive Beam of the second axis to rotate

clockwise whereas the pulling direction #4 makes it to rotate anticlockwise.

[0094] The TLRTS By DR might also integrate the Method of Bending Moments

Eliminated for Symmetric Pulls of the TLRTS By DR (MBME4SP).

[0095] The Twisting Linear-to-Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TLRTS

By DR) is applied for not only the second axis but also the first axis of single or dual

axes solartracking systems. The TLRTS BY DR is beneficial to integrate with Elevational

Crossed Dual Axes Pivot Arm for Elevational Crossed Dual Axes of solar tracking

systems. Furthermore, the TLRTS BY DR is especially beneficial to floating solar

tracking systems.

1.15 The Method of Bending Moments Eliminated for Symmetric Pulls of the TLRTS By DR

(MBME4SP) (Figure 10 (b))

[0096] This solution is developed to enhance the Twisting Linear-to-Rotational

Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TLRTS By DR) thanks to eliminating bending

effects on posts caused by horizontal pulling forces. It composes of two Twisting

Linear-to-Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TLRTS By DR)s which are

combined and arranged symmetrically as presented in Figure 10 (b) and described

below.

[0097] When a horizontal pulling force (such as #3 in the left of Figure 10 (b)) rotates

the solar array clockwise by pulling to the left, the posts of the solar array are being

bended accordingly. In order to eliminate the bending effects, a symmetric

mechanism pulling to the right (#3 in the right of Figure 10 (b)) is added. The two

horizontal opposite pulling forces of #3, when working together, pulling to both the

left and the right, as presented in Figure 10 (b), make the second axis rotating

clockwise while eliminating bending of the posts. Similarly, the rotation of

anticlockwise is handled by the two opposite forces of #4, as presented in Figure 10

(b)), pulling to both the left and the right.

[0098] The Method of Bending Moments Eliminated for Symmetric Pulls of the TLRTS

By DR is beneficial forfloating dual axes solartracking systems, of which, anti-capsizing

on the surface of water is considered. In addition, the solution might also be applied

forgrounding solartracking systems which need to reduce bending moments of posts/

columns.

1.16 The Twisting Rotational-to-Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TRRTS

By DR) (Figure 11)

[0099] The TRRTS By DR is applied for both floating and grounding energy systems,

including (floating or grounding) solar tracking systems and wave energy systems. The

word "rope" here implies both "rope" and "cable".

[0100]The TRRTS By DR is based on a Set of a pair of pulleys (#1 and #2) and a Drive

Rope (#3) presented in Figure 11 (a). The Set is called the Unit Set. Mechanical power

from the first pulley (#1) is transmitted to the second pulley (#2) through the Drive

Rope (#3) of the Unit Set. Diameters of the two pulleys of the Unit Set may need to be

equal if angles of rotations of the two pulleys are required to be the same.

[0101] The TRRTS By DR is composed of several Unit Sets (Figure 11 (b)). Drive Ropes

of these Unit Set can be separate for every pair of pulleys or continuous on all pairs of

pulleys. A number of Transmitting Enclosed Revolution Roller Guides (TERRGs) should

be integrated for guiding these Drive Ropes. In addition, if the Method of Automatic

Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) is included, the TRRTS By DR also comprises

related components of the MARRM as well. In addition, the TRRTS By DR might also

integrate the Method of Bending Moments Eliminated for Symmetric Drives of the

TRRTS By DR (MBME4SD).

[0102]When pulleys of a pair are not in the same plane (their plane vectors are not in

the same directions), the transmission is called "twisting". It reflects that the two

pulleys of the pair, and the Drive Rope of the pair are being twisted as presented in

Figure 11 (a).

[0103] This system is developed for transmitting mechanical power from the first

pulley to a number of pulleys, while:

(1) All these pulleys might and might not be in the same plane. In other words,

rotational axes of these pulleys might and might not be parallel. These

rotational axes are being twisted.

(2) The angles between plane vectors of every two consecutive pulleys are less

than 180 degrees. For practical applications, less than 90 degrees is enough for

requirements of wave energy systems or solar tracking systems.

(3) Centres of these pulleys can be fluctuated or oscillated.

(4) These pulleys might be floating independently or grounding. However,

distances between two centres of every pair of pulleys (of a Unit Set) is

unchanged overtime.

[0104] Figure 11 (a) presents that the pair of pulleys, the pulley (#1) and the pulley

(#2), are not in the same plane. In other words, the upper line and the lower line of

the Drive Rope (#3) are twisting. It is clear that the first pulley can still transmit

mechanical power to the second pulley while their Drive Rope is being twisted.

[0105] Thus, the TRRTS By DR is able to be applied in the following cases:

(1) For floating transmission systems such as applications for floating solar

tracking system or wave energy systems, where the plane vectors of pulleys

vary over time and the centres of these pulleys are fluctuated or oscillated. No

matter how waves displace the pair of pulleys (the two consecutive pulleys), as

the distance between the pair of pulleys is unchanged, mechanical power

transmissions between the two pulleys are still maintained. Particularly, the

angles of rotations of the pair of pulleys are also maintained if both pulleys

have the same diameters. This technical feature is significant for floating solar

tracking systems: solar panels attached on the torsional beams (#6) of all pairs

of pulleys (of the transmission systems) have the same angles of rotations

which are required for facing to the sun. Thus, the TRRTS By DR is significantly

beneficial for floating energy systems as listed below:

(a) Maintaining/ establishing rotations of solar panels independently from

motions of waves (for floating energy systems) and complex terrains (for

grounding energy systems) and

(b) The transmission is considerable to be less in losing transmitting

mechanical power in comparison with Rotational Drive Shafts and

universal joints integrated: When passing joints or pulleys which are not in the same strait line the transmission efficiency of the TRRTS By DR is maintained superiorly. It means, for floating solar tracking systems, because of motions of waves, Rotational Drive Shafts using universal joints can rotate quite a limited quantity of solar panels in comparison with that of the TRRTS By DR due to their transmission efficiencies.

(2) For grounding solar tracking systems on complex terrains, the benefits are still

the same.

[0106] In addition, The TRRTS By DR can be used to be the second axis of the dual

axes solartracking systems (Figure 11 (b)) as follows:

(1) The First Active Pulley (#1) is connected to the First Drive Motor (#7).

(2) The Pulleys numbered from 2 to (N+1) belong to the Second Rotational Axis of

the N solar trackers.

(3) The First Rotational Axis connects through the above N solar trackers via drive

shafts (#5) with universal joints integrated. These N solar trackers can be

rotated according to the First Rotational Axis.

(4) While the First Rotational Axis (#5) is rotating, the Drive Rope (#3) between the

First Active Pulley (#1) and all the remaining Pulleys (#2 and #4) are being

twisted consequently. At the same time, the First Drive Motor (#7) of the

Second Rotational Axis rotates the First Active Pulley (#1). Then the First Active

Pulley pull the Twisted Drive Rope (#3) and then transmit mechanical power

to all the Pulleys numbered from 2 to (N+1). Thus, the TRRTS By DR can be used

for the Second Rotational Axis of a dual axes solar tracking system. Both the

First Rotational Axis and the Second Rotational Axis can rotate the trackers of

solar panels at the same time independently thanks to the capability of the

TRRTS By DR with Twisting Drive Ropes and Twisting Pulleys.

(5) The First Rotational Axis is not required to be strait. In otherwords, the centres

of pulleys are either statically or dynamically fluctuated. The TRRTS By DR is

capable to work with all such cases.

[0107] The TRRTS By DR can also be used for:

(1) single axis solar tracking systems, and

(2) floating solar tracking systems with either single axis or dual axes.

[0108] In addition to using tensioners for keeping the Drive Ropes always tensioned,

The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) can be applied. It

also helps to keep the Drive Ropes tensioned at all times.

1.17 The Method of Bending Moments Eliminated for Symmetric Drives of the TRRTS By

DR (MBME4SD) (Figure 12)

[0109] The MBME4SD is developed to enhance the Twisting Rotational-to-Rotational

Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TRRTS By DR). It is applied for both floating and

grounding energy systems, including (floating orgrounding) solar tracking systems and

wave energy systems. It composes of two Twisting Rotational-to-Rotational

Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TRRTS By DR)s which are combined and arranged

symmetrically as presented in Figure 12 and described below.

[0110] Given a TRRTS By DR as presented in Figure 12. If there is only one Drive Pulley

(#7) (powered by a Drive Motor) at one end of the TRRTS By DR, the Drive Pulley pulls

all the Pulleys of the transmission system with Lower Pulling Forces (#15), including

tops of the (floating) posts where the Pulleys are secured to. The Lower Pulling Forces

cause:

(1) Bending moments in the (floating) posts, and

(2) Capsizing the (floating) posts, and

(3) Pulling all structure of the system to one side which is the side of the Drive

Pulley (#7), and

(4) Causing the supporting structure of the Drive Pulley (#7) and the structure of

the whole system, including anchoring/ mooring systems as well as structures

of the Pulleys/ Bearings, required to be strengthened and anchored further.

[0111] The developed Method of Symmetric Drives (MBME4SD) is to add a secondary

Drive Pulley (#11) powered by a second Drive Motor. The Second Drive Pulley, which

is symmetric with the First Drive Pulley, creates the Upper Pulling Forces (#14). As a

result, all matters caused by the First Drive Pulley are eliminated by the Second Drive

Pulley, leading to saving costs for structures and improving structural stability of

energy systems, particularly floating energy systems.

1.18 The Twisting Oscillated Mechanical Power Transmission System (TOMPTS)

[0112] The TOMPTS is applied for transmitting mechanical power in energy systems.

The word "rope" here also implies cable, chain, belt or any flexible means capable to

bear tensional forces.

[0113] Mechanical power transmission used for distributed oscillated systems such as

floating energy systems must cope with distributed oscillated motions caused by

waves which makes the whole transmission systems oscillated while it is rotating.

Thus, shapes of the transmission systems might vary over time while their

transmission efficiencies are concerned as the shapes of the transmission systems are

fluctuated. In lieu of using popular Rotational Drive Shafts integrated with universal

joints, the TOMPTS is developed and applied for not only coping with waves but also

improving transmission efficiencies.

[0114] The MOMPTS, which uses ropes as drive ropes (called Drive Ropes), developed

for energy systems, particularly floating energy systems and wave energy systems, is

based on a set of a Drive Rope (or sections of Drive Ropes) connecting a pair of

consecutive pulleys(#1and#2 in Figure 11 (a)and (b)), or Rotating Arms (#10 in Figure

10 (b)), for both types of linearto rotational and rotational to rotational transmissions.

Thus, the TOMPTS comprises the following:

(1) The Twisting Linear-to-Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes (TLRTS

By DR), and

(2) The Twisting Rotational-to-Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes

(TRRTS By DR)

(3) The Method of Bending Moments Eliminated for Symmetric Pulls of the TLRTS

By DR (MBME4SP), and

(4) The Method of Bending Moments Eliminated for Symmetric Drives of the

TRRTS By DR (MBME4SD).

[0115] Technical features and advantages of the TOMPTS are:

(1) Light.

(2) Flexible to cope with motions of waves. Flexible to transmit mechanical power

in variable directions of transmissions fluctuated by waves.

(3) Capable to long distance mechanical power transmissions. Thus, it is beneficial

for coping with high waves offshores, either for vertical transmissions or

elevational transmissions.

(4) Able to convert mechanical power from bidirectional linear to rotational

motions. Thus, Drive Ropes are applied for both (floating) solar tracking

systems and transmitting harvested wave energy to electric generators.

(5) Able to maintain angle of rotation of the two equal sized consecutive pulleys

(or Rotating Arms) even when these pulleys (or Rotating Arms) displaced

differently by waves. This feature is beneficial for floating solar tracking

systems in maintaining separate trackers of solar panels facing to the sun at all

times in spite of different motions caused by waves.

(6) Motions of waves do not decrease transmission efficiency as it is independent

with displacements of pulleys.

[0116] The main TOMPTS's technical feature is to transfer mechanical power while

accepting its drive ropes being twisted in different directions by rotations, especially

with motions caused bywaves. Example of motions that make drive ropes twisted are:

(1) Dual axes solartracking systems: the TOMPTS forthe second axis with its drive

ropes twisted by motions of the first axis.

(2) Transmission systems on the surface of water: the TOMPTS is transmitting

mechanical power while components are oscillated, causing its drive ropes

being twisted by waves.

1.19 The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Gear Racks (BLRTS by

GR) (Figure 13):

[0117] The BLRTS by GR is developed for wave energy systems. It transmits mechanical

energy from waves to electric generators. There are two versions of the BLRTS by GR:

The BLRTS by GR with Fixing Generators and The BLRTS by GR with Sliding Generators.

[0118] The BLRTS by GR with Fixing Generators (Figure 13 (a))

[0119] Components of the BLRTS by Gear Racks with Fixing Generators:

(1) A pair of One-way Pinion Gears (#2 and #3), which are both released in the

same anticlockwise direction, and both engaged in the clockwise direction,

secured to a Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) which is connecting to a rotor of an

electric generator.

(2) A pair of Gear Racks (#5 and #6) secured along a Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8),

which is also called "Gear Rack Holder" as it holds Gear Racks. The pair of Gear

Racks and the pair of One-way Pinion Gears can be any type which have the

same functions.

(3) A Linear Motion Drive Shaft (Gear Rack Holder) secured onto a (Vertically)

Slidable Float (#1)

[0120] Operations of the BLRTS by Gear Racks with Fixing Generators:

(1) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float (#1) moves upwards, it pushes the pair of

Gear Racks up accordingly. The First Gear Rack (#5) rotates the First One-way

Pinion Gear (#2) clockwise. As the First One-way Pinion Gear (#2) is currently

engaged, it makes the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) rotating clockwise

accordingly. At the same time, although the Second Gear Rack (#6) rotates the

Second One-way Pinion Gear (#3) anticlockwise, as the Second One-way Pinion

Gear (#3) is currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to

the current clockwise rotation of the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

(2) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float (#1) moves downwards, it pushes the pair

of Gear Racks down accordingly. The Second Gear Rack (#6) rotates the Second

One-way Pinion Gear (#3) clockwise. As the Second One-way Pinion Gear (#3)

is currently engaged, it makes the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) rotating clockwise

accordingly. At the same time, although the First Gear Rack (#5) rotates the

First One-way Pinion Gear (#2) anticlockwise, as the First One-way Pinion Gear

(#2) is currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the

current clockwise rotation of the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

(3) Thus, the bidirectional linear motions of the (Vertically) Slidable Float make the

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) to rotate clockwise at all times.

[0121] The BLRTS by GR with Sliding Generators (Figure 13 (b) and Figure 13 (c))

[0122] The BLRTS by GR with Sliding Generators is the same with the BLRTS by GR with

Fixing Generator except the followings:

[0123] The pair of Gear Racks ((#5) and (#6)) are secured to a Floating Post or a

Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP) instead of securing to a (Vertically)

Slidable Float (#1).

[0124]The (electric) Generator(#7), andthe pairof One-way Pinion Gears (#2 and #3)

are secured to the (Vertically) Slidable Float (#1) instead of the Floating Post. Thus, the

Generator slides along the Floating Post whereas the Gear Racks are fixed, making the

pair of One-way Pinion Gears (#2 and #3) rotating accordingly when the (Vertically)

Slidable Float slides upwards or downwards.

[0125] Figure 13 (b) presents an arrangement of electric generators and sliding guides

around a Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP) as follows: four Sliding

Unclosed Revolution Roller Guides (SURRG)s (#14), and 4 pairs of One-way Pinion

Gears ((#2) and (#3)), and four electric generator (#7) are integrated. The Central

Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (Central SRTB) (#11) is positioned in the centre of the

Floating Post or the Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP). The Central SRTB is

anchored/ moored to submerged damper(s) or ground via a (Vertical) Stationed

Ropes/ Cables (#10). The Stationed Float (#12), which is secured to the bottom of the

Central SRTB, ensures the whole structure floating.

[0126] Operations of both versions of the BLRTS by GR with Fixing and Sliding

Generators are principally the same.

1.20 The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes Circled

(BLRTS By DR Circled) (Figure 14)

[0127] The BLRTS By DR Circled is applied for wave energy systems. It uses two

separate Circular Drive Ropes. The word "Circled" implies that the two Drive Ropes

are circular. This type of Drive Rope is call "Attachment Drive Rope" as it is attached

to a short component called "Linear Motion Drive Shaft" (#8), which is also called

"Attachment Clamp Holder" as it holds Attachment Clamps.

[0128] Stators of electric generators are secured to Stationed Group supported by

Stationed Floats whereas rotors are connected to the BLRTS By DR Circled. In addition,

Figure 14 (b) presents an arrangement of Drive Ropes applicable to the BLRTS By DR

Circled with both sides to be aligned vertically at all times.

[0129] Components of the BLRTS by DR Circled:

(1) A pair of One-way Pulleys (#11 and #12), which are both released in the same

anticlockwise direction and both engaged in the clockwise direction, secured

to a Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) connecting to a rotor of an electric generator.

(2) A pair of Free Pulleys (#9 and #10).

(3) A pair of (Circular) Drive Ropes:

(a). The First Drive Rope (comprising #13 in the left side and #15 in the right

side) rolls the First One-way Pulley (#11) and the First Free Pulley (#9).

The left side (#13) of the First Drive Rope is called the First Active Rope

Section (the load line). The right side (#15) of the First Drive Rope is

called the First Passive Rope Section (the fall line). The First Active Rope

Section is secured to the left side of the Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8)

via the first Attachment Clamp (#20). Two ends of the First Drive Rope

(at the tops #13 and #15) can be secured to the First One-way Pulley at

the same point or two separate points. The First Drive Rope also has a

reserved length of rope, which is at least equal to the linear Travel

Range, circling the First One-way Pulley for the Travel Range of the

Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8).

(b).The Second Drive Rope (comprising #16 in the left side and #14 in the

right side) rolls the Second One-way Pulley (#12) and the Second Free

Pulley (#10). The left side (#16) of the Second Drive Rope is called the

Second Passive Rope Section. The right side (#14) of the Second Drive

Rope is called the Second Active Rope Section. The Second Active Rope

Section is secured to the right side of the Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8)

via the second Attachment Clamp (#21). Two ends of the Second Drive

Rope (at the tops #14 and #16) can be secured to the Second One-way

Pulley at the same point or two separate points. The Second Drive Rope

also has a reserved length of rope, which is at least equal to the linear

Travel Range, circling the Second One-way Pulley for the Travel Range

of the Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8).

(4) A Pair of Attachment Clamps (#20 & #21) to attach the Active Sections (#13

& #14) to the Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8).

(5) If the Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) is applied,

a Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP), which is the Child One-way Pulley

of the First One-way Pulley (#11), is included. The Child One-way Pulley is

engaged to the Pulley (#11) for anticlockwise rotations and released in the

other rotational direction. In this case, top of the First Active Section (#13) of

the First Drive Rope is secured to the Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP)

while top of the First Passive Section (#15) is secured to the First One-way

Pulley. It is similar for the Second Drive Rope.

(6) A Linear Motion Drive Shaft (Attachment Clamp Holder) (#8) secured onto a

(Vertically) Slidable Float

(7) A number of tensioner guides.

(8) The Method of Vertical Alignment Control for Attachment Drive Ropes

(MVACADR) can be integrated in order to keep the Attachment Clamps (#20 &

#21) aligned with the Active Sections (#13 & #14) at all times.

[0130] Operations of the BLRTS by DR Circled:

(1) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float moves upwards, it pulls the First and the

Second Active Rope Sections up accordingly. The upward motions of the First

Active Rope Section (#13) rotate the First One-way Pulley (#11) clockwise. As

the First One-way Pulley (#11) is currently engaged, it makes the Rotational

Drive Shaft (#4) rotating clockwise accordingly. At the same time, although the

upward motions of the Second Active Rope Section (#14) rotate the Second

One-way Pulley (#12) anticlockwise, as the Second One-way Pulley (#12) is

currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the current

clockwise rotation of the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

(2) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float moves downwards, it pulls the First and

the Second Active Rope Sections down accordingly. The Second Active Rope

Section (#14) rotates the Second One-way Pulley (#12) clockwise. As the

Second One-way Pulley (#12) is currently engaged, it makes the Rotational

Drive Shaft (#4) rotating clockwise accordingly. At the same time, although the

First Active Rope Section (#13) rotates the First One-way Pulley (#11)

anticlockwise, as the First One-way Pulley (#11) is currently released from

moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the current clockwise rotation of the

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) to rotate clockwise at all times.

(4) If the Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) is applied

in lieu of using tensioners, when the Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) is

activated, it rolls the First or Second Drive Ropes, making the Drive Ropes to

be always tensioned (as it is rolled to be shorter).

1.21 The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes

Combined (BLRTS By DR Combined) (Figure 15)

[0131] The BLRTS By DR Combined is applied forwave energy systems. Instead of using

two separate circular Drive Ropes for two directions of bidirectional linear motions, it

uses a single combined Drive Rope. The combined Drive Rope has all functions

combined from two separate circular Drive Ropes. The word "Combined" implies that

two circular Drive Ropes are combined to be a single Drive Rope.

[0132] Stators of electric generators are secured to Stationed Group supported by

Stationed Floats whereas rotors are connected to the BLRTS By DR Combined.

[0133] Components of the BLRTS by DR Combined:

anticlockwise direction and both engaged in the other clockwise direction,

secured to a Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) connecting to a rotor of an electric

generator.

(2) A pair of Free Pulleys (#9 and #10).

(3) A combined Drive Rope: The combined Drive Rope rolls the two One-way

Pulley (#11 and #12) and the two Free Pulley (#9 and #10). All Pulleys are

circled with reserved length of rope, which is at least equal to the Travel Range

of linear motions. The combined Drive Rope has four Sections (#18, #19, #22,

#23). The Section of Rope (#19) is called the Active Rope Section (#19).

(4) The Pulley (#10) has:

(a) Two Rope Securing Clamps (#25). The first Clamp secures the first end

of the combined Drive Rope to the Pulley (#10). The Second Clamp

secures the second end of the combined Drive Rope to the Rope

Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#24), and

(b) A Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#24, if the Method of

Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) is applied. The RROP

is the Child One-way Pulley of the Pulley (#10). The Child One-way

Pulley is engaged to the Pulley (#10) for anticlockwise rotations and

released for clockwise rotations.

(5) An Attachment Clamp (#21) to attach the Section (#19) to the Linear Motion

Drive Shaft (#8) which is also called "Attachment Clamp Holder" as it holds

Attachment Clamps.

(6) A Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8) secured onto a (Vertically) Slidable Float.

(7) A number of tensioner guides.

(8) The Method of Vertical Alignment Control for Attachment Drive Ropes

(MVACADR) can be integrated in order to keep the Attachment Clamp (#21)

aligned with the Section (#19) at all times.

[0134] Operations of the BLRTS by DR Combined:

(1) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float moves upwards, it pulls the Active Rope

Section (#19) upwards accordingly. The upward motions of the Active Rope

Section (#19) pull the Section (#18) downwards. Then the Section (#18) rotate

the First One-way Pulley (#11) clockwise. As the First One-way Pulley (#11) is

currently engaged, it makes the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) rotating clockwise

accordingly. At the same time, although the upward motions of the Active

Rope Section (#19) also rotate the Second One-way Pulley (#12) anticlockwise,

as the Second One-way Pulley (#12) is currently released from moving

anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the current clockwise rotation of the

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

(2) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float moves downwards, it pulls the Active Rope

Section (#19) downwards accordingly. The downward motions of the Active

Rope Section (#19) rotate the Second One-way Pulley (#12) clockwise. As the

Second One-way Pulley (#12) is currently engaged, it makes the Rotational

Drive Shaft (#4) rotating clockwise accordingly. At the same time, the

downward motions of the Active Rope Section (#19) pull the Section (#23)

downwards and rotates the Pulley (#10) clockwise. The Pulley (#10) then pulls

the Section (#22) upwards and rotates the First One-way Pulley (#11)

anticlockwise. As the First One-way Pulley (#11) is currently released from

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) to rotate clockwise at all times.

(4) If the Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) is applied

in lieu of using roller tensioners, the combined Drive Rope is always tensioned.

1.22 The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes Aligned

(BLRTS By DR Aligned) (Figure 16)

[0135] The BLRTS By DR Aligned is applied for wave energy systems. It uses two

separate vertical Aligned Drive Ropes. This type of Drive Rope is aligned vertically

during upward and downward motions of (Vertically) Slidable Floats.

[0136] The word "Aligned" implies that all sections of the Drive Ropes are always

aligned in expected arrangements of directions and connections at all times of

operations.

[0137] Both rotors and stators of electric generators are not stationed with the BLRTS

By DR Aligned. Stators and rotors slide linearly in both upward and downward

directions as the stators are fixed to Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS)s which

bear (Vertically) Slidable Floats. Rotations of rotors are created by pulling forces of the

two Aligned Drive Ropes for both upward and downward linear motions.

[0138] Components of the BLRTS by DR Aligned (Figure 16 (a)):

(1) A pair of One-way Pulleys (#26 and #27), which are both released in the same

anticlockwise direction and both engaged in the clockwise direction, secured

(2) A pair of Aligned Drive Ropes:

(a) The First Aligned Drive Rope (comprisingthe Upper Section #28 and the

Lower Section #29) rolls the First One-way Pulley (#26). The top end of

the Upper Section (#28) and bottom end of the Lower Section (#29) are

secured to the top (#32) and the bottom (#33) of a (vertical) Floating

Post which belong to the Stationed Floating Structure of the energy

system.

(b) The Second Aligned Drive Rope (comprising the Upper Section #30 and

the Lower Section #31) rolls the Second One-way Pulley (#27). The top

end of the Upper Section (#30) and the bottom end of the Lower

Section (#31) are secured to the top (#32) and the bottom (#33) of the

(vertical) Floating Post as well.

(3) A Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) and a generator (#7) are secured to the (Vertically)

Slidable Float (#1). The (Vertically) Slidable Float is sliding along the (vertical)

Floating Post of the Stationed Floating Structure.

(4) The Drive Rope Partition (#36), which is an option of One-way Pulleys, is used

to separate the Upper Section and Lower Section of the Aligned Drive Ropes.

(5) A number of tensioner guides.

(6) If The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) is applied

(option): a pair of Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP)s (#37 and #38) are

added. Axes of these RROP are secured to the top of the (vertical) Floating Post

(belonged to Stationed Floating Structure). A pair of Hanging Masses (#39 and

#40) are also added. In this case, the two top ends of the two Aligned Drive

Ropesare secured tothetwo Rope Retracting One-way Pulleysthen connected

to the two Hanging Masses. The First Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (#37) is

engaged (locked) to the main structure in the clockwise direction and released

in the other direction. The Second Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (#38) is

engaged (locked) to the main structure in the anticlockwise direction and

released in the other direction. The pair of Hanging Masses (#39 and #40) can

be replaced with any other means having the same function for retracting the

ropes such as controlled drive motors or Rope Retracting Flywheel (RRF)s

(#41).

[0139] Operations of the BLRTS by DR Aligned:

(1) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float, including components secured on it such

as the two One-way Pulleys and the electric generator, moves upwards, the

Lower Section (#29) rotates the First One-way Pulley (#26) clockwise. As the

First One-way Pulley (#26) is engaged with the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) for

clockwise rotations, the First One-way Pulley rotates the rotor of the electric

generator clockwise. At the same time, the Lower Section (#31) rotates the

Second One-way Pulley (#27) anticlockwise. As the Second One-way Pulley

(#27) is currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the

current clockwise rotation of the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

(2) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float moves downwards, the Upper Section

(#30) rotates the Second One-way Pulley (#27) clockwise. As the Second One

way Pulley (#27) is engaged with the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) for clockwise

rotations, the Second One-way Pulley rotates the rotor of the electric

generator clockwise. At the same time, the Upper Section (#28) rotates the

First One-way Pulley (#26) anticlockwise. As the First One-way Pulley (#26) is

currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the current

clockwise rotation of the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) to rotate clockwise at all times.

(4) If The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) is applied

(option): Whenever the Section (#28) of the First Aligned Drive Rope is loose,

the First Hanging Mass (#39) pulls the One-way Pulley (#37) anticlockwise (the

anticlockwise direction is not engaged), making the Section (#28) to retract.

Similarly, whenever the Section (#30) of the Second Aligned Drive Rope is

loose, the Second Hanging Mass (#40) pulls the One-way Pulley (#38) clockwise

(the clockwise direction is not engaged), making the Section (#30) to retract.

The MARRM is convenient for installation and maintenance. It helps to keep

the First and the Second Aligned Drive Ropes always tensioned. In addition, the

MARRM can be applied with controlled drive motors or Rope Retracting

Flywheel (#41) instead of using Hanging Masses (#39 and #40). Figure 16 (b)

presents the MARRM with Rope Retracting Flywheel (#41) applied for the

BLRTS By DR Aligned:

(a) The pair of Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP)s (#37 and #38) are

excluded.

(b) The pair of Hanging Masses (#39 and #40) are also excluded.

(c) The pair of Aligned Drive Ropes: all four ends of the pair of Aligned Drive

Ropes are secured to the (vertical) Floating Post.

(d) The pair of Rope Retracting Flywheel (RRF)s (#41) are added.

(e) Operations of the BLRTS By DR Aligned with the pair of Rope Retracting

Flywheel (RRF)s (#41) are similar to that of the BLRTS By DR Aligned

with Hanging Masses (#39 and #40), except features related to RRFs are described in the Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism

(MARRM) with RRFs.

1.23 The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Chains/ Belts

(BLRTS By DC) (Figure 17)

[0140] The mechanisms and operations of the BLRTS by Drive Chains and the BLRTS by

Belts are the same. Thus, there is only the BLRTS by Drive Chains is described below.

[0141] Stators of electric generators are secured to Stationed Group supported by

Stationed Floats whereas rotors are connected to the BLRTS By Drive Chains.

[0142] Components of the BLRTS by Drive Chains:

(1) A pair of One-way Gears (#11 and #12), which are both released in the same

anticlockwise direction and both engaged in the other clockwise direction,

secured to a Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) connecting to a rotor of an electric

generator.

(2) A pair of Free Gears (#9 and #10).

(3) A pair of Drive Chains:

The First Drive Chain (comprising the left side #17 of the Drive Chain) rolls the

First One-way Gear (#11) and the First Free Gear (#9). The left side (#17) of the

First Drive Chain is called the First Active Chain Section. The right side of the

First Drive Chain is called the First Passive Chain Section. The First Active Chain

Section is secured to the left side of the Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8), which

is also called "Attachment Clamp Holder" as it holds Attachment Clamps, via

the first Attachment Clamp (#20).

The Second Drive Chain (comprising the right side #18 of the Drive Chain) rolls

the Second One-way Gear (#12) and the Second Free Gear (#10). The left side

of the Second Drive Chain is called the Second Passive Chain Section. The right

side (#18) of the Second Drive Chain is called the Second Active Chain Section.

The Second Active Chain Section is secured to the right side of the Linear

Motion Drive Shaft (#8) via the second Attachment Clamp (#21).

(4) A pair of Attachment Clamps (#20 & #21) to attach the Section (#17 & #18) to

the Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8).

(5) A Linear Motion Drive Shaft (#8) secured onto a (Vertically) Slidable Float

(6) A number of tensioner guides.

[0143] Operations of the BLRTS by Drive Chains:

Second Active Chain Sections up accordingly. The upward motions of First

Active Chain Section (#17) rotate the First One-way Gear (#11) clockwise. As

the First One-way Gear (#11) is currently engaged, it makes the Rotational

Drive Shaft (#4) rotating clockwise accordingly. At the same time, although the

upward motions of the Second Active Chain Section (#18) rotate the Second

One-way Gear (#12) anticlockwise, as the Second One-way Gear (#12) is

currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the current

clockwise rotation of the Rotational Drive Shaft (#4).

the Second Active Chain Sections down accordingly. The Second Active Chain

Section (#18) rotates the Second One-way Gear (#12) clockwise. As the Second

One-way Gear (#12) is currently engaged, it makes the Rotational Drive Shaft

(#4) rotating clockwise accordingly. At the same time, although the First Active

Chain Section (#17) rotates the First One-way Gear (#11) anticlockwise, as the

First One-way Gear (#11) is currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is

not engaged to the current clockwise rotation of the Rotational Drive Shaft

(#4).

[0144] Thus, the bidirectional linear motions of the (Vertically) Slidable Float make the

Rotational Drive Shaft (#4) to rotate clockwise at all times.

[0145] The BLRTS by Drive Chains/ Belts can also be arranged with sliding generators,

which are secured to (Vertically) Slidable Floats, while Drive Chains are fully fixed to

(vertical) Floating Posts to work similar to Gear Racks. In this case, The BLRTS by Drive

Chains/ Belts and the BLRTS by Gear Racks are the same.

1.24 The Method of Vertical Alignment Control for Attachment Drive Ropes (MVACADR)

(Figure 18)

[0146] The MVACADR is applied forthe Bidirectional Linearto Rotational Transmission

System (BLRTS) which is integrated in energy systems, particularly wave energy

systems.

[0147] Attachment Drive Ropes (#18) used in the BLRTS may require to be aligned

when circling around pulleys. During the process of circling around pulleys,

Attachment Drive Ropes are moving along the direction parallel with the pulleys' axes

whereas the Attachment Clamps (#21) do not move in the same pace if they are fixed

completely to the Sliding Structure (or the Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS))

which the (Vertically) Slidable Float (#1) is secured to.

[0148] The solution is to ensure the Attachment Clamps keeping pace with the

Attachment Drive Ropes of the BLRTS. In other words, the moving Attachment Drive

Ropes are kept to be strait vertically at all times.

[0149] Components of theMVACADR:

(1) A Bidirectional Engaged Pulley (#26). The Pulley (#26) has the same diameter

with the two pulleys (#12) and (#10)

(2) A Control Drive Rope (#28, Upper Section) and (#29, Lower Section) for the

Alignment Control. The Control Drive Rope and the Attachment Drive Ropes

(#18) have the same diameter.

(3) A Control Axis (#39) with a Lead Screw (#37). The length of steps of the Lead

Screw equals to the diameter of the Attachment Drive Ropes (#18).

(4) A Control Sliding Rail (#38) for the Attachment Clamps to slide.

(5) A pair of Attachment Drive Ropes and a pair of Attachment Clamps secured to

the Attachment Drive Ropes.

(6) Although the MVACADR can work with a pair of Attachment Drive Ropes,

Figure 18 is presented with an Attachment Drive Rope instead of the pair.

(7) The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) can be

integrated to retract Attachment Drive Ropes or Control Drive Ropes.

[0150] Operations of the MVACADR:

(1) When the (Vertically) Slidable Float (#1) slides downwards:

(a) the pulley (#12) rotates the rotor of the electric generator (#7)

(b) the Attachment Drive Rope (#18) moves closer to the electric generator.

(c) the Control Drive Rope (#29) rotate the Bidirectional Engaged Pulley (#26).

Thanks to rotations of the Lead Screw (#37), the Attachment Clamp (#21)

keeps pace with the Attachment Drive Rope (#18).

(2) When the (Vertically) Slidable Floats (#1) slides upwards, the process is the

same with its downward motion except directions of motions of the Alignment

Control are opposite and the electric generator keeps rotating clockwise at all

times.

1.25 The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System (BLRTS)

[0151] BLRTS is applied for wave energy systems to transmit mechanical power

harvested from waves to rotational electric generators.

[0152] Due to characteristics of linear motions caused by waves, which are different

with linear motions in other fields, the need of an appropriate mechanical power

transmission for wave energy conversion is required. The characteristics of linear

motions created by waves are:

(1) Bidirectional linear motions. Upward and downward directions of motions are

shifted overtime.

(2) Magnitudes of motions (oscillations) vary over time, depending mainly on

wave highs, which might be 5m, 10m or much larger.

(3) Speeds, accelerations and frequencies of motions (oscillations) vary over time,

depending mainly on wavelengths and wave frequencies.

(4) The values of speeds, accelerations and frequencies are usually smaller

whereas magnitudes are usually larger in comparison with that of other

popular machines.

[0153] The BLRTS is developed with different types of Drive Components which are:

(1) Tensional: Drive Ropes (or Cables), Drive Chains, and Drive Belts.

(2) Tensional and compressional: Gear Racks.

[0154] The Method of BLRTS (Its components and operations are more detailed in the

Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Gear Racks (BLRTS by GR),

the Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Chains/ Belts

(BLRTS By DC) and the Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive

Ropes (BLRTS By DR) which comprises the BLRTS By DR Circled and the BLRTS By DR

Combined and the BLRTS By DR Aligned) is principally described below.

[0155] Components required:

(1) Two Pair of Sections. A Pair of Sections include an Active Section (load line) and

Passive Section (fall line). Each Pair of Sections is responsible for one direction

of linear motions. The Sections can be flexible (ropes/ cables/ chains/ belts) or

non-flexible (gear racks).

(2) Two One-way Pulleys/ Gears. Once secured to Rotational Drive Shafts or rotors

of electric generators, it is engaged with one rotational direction and released

with the other rotational direction of the rotors.

(3) Two Free Pulleys/ Gears which are not required for gear racks. The Free

Pulleys/ Gears keep the flexible Drive Components (ropes/ cables/ chains,

belts) in shape. Every Active and Passive Sections of a Pair of Sections are

continuous, linking together on a Free Pulleys/ Gears.

[0156] Operations of the BLRTS:

(1) When motions of the first linear direction occur, the first Active Section pulls

(or pushes) the engaged first One-way Pulleys/ Gears, rotating the rotor in the

designed rotational direction (for example, clockwise). At the same time, the

second Active Section is rotating the second One-way Pulleys/ Gears in the

opposite rotational direction (for example, anticlockwise). As the second One

way Pulleys/ Gears is currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not

engaged to the current clockwise rotation of the rotor. Thus, the rotor

continues to rotate clockwise.

(2) When motions of the second linear direction occur, the second Active Section

pulls (or pushes) the engaged second One-way Pulleys/ Gears, rotating the

rotor in the designed rotational direction (clockwise). At the same time, the

first Active Section is rotating the first One-way Pulleys/ Gears in the opposite

rotational direction (anticlockwise). As the first One-way Pulleys/ Gears is

currently released from moving anticlockwise, it is not engaged to the current

clockwise rotation of the rotor. Thus, the rotor also continues to rotate

clockwise.

[0157] The above two Pair of Sections can be combined together. In addition, The

above two One-way Pulleys/ Gears as well as the Two Free Pulleys/ Gears can also be

combined together in different ways of arrangements. Some of these arrangements

are classified and named to be detailed cases of the BLRTS as follows:

(1) The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Gear Racks

(BLRTS by GR)

(2) The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes

(BLRTS By DR) which further comprising the following special versions:

(a) The BLRTS By DR Circled; and

(b) The BLRTS By DR Combined; and

(c) The BLRTS By DR Aligned.

(3) The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Chains/

Belts (BLRTS By DC).

1.26 The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) (Figure 19)

[0158] The purpose of the MARRM is to keep Drive Ropes always tensioned in lieu of

using tensioners alone. It is applied for mechanical power transmission systems or

mechanisms using ropes/ cables in energy systems such as wave energy systems, solar

energy systems orwind energy systems. The word "rope" here implies both ropes and

cables.

[0159] The MARRM for Rotational-to-Rotational Transmissions (MARRM for RRT)

(Figure 19 (a) and (b)):

[0160] Components of the MARRM for RRT:

(1) A Drive Pulley (#1).

(2) A Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2). The RROP is a child pulley of

the Drive Pulley. It is engaged with the Drive Pulley in its clockwise direction

and disengaged in its anticlockwise direction.

(3) A Passive (Free) Pulley (#3).

(4) A clamp which secures the first end of the Drive Rope to the Drive Pulley (#1).

It is called the First Drive Rope Clamp (#4).

(5) A clamp which secures the second end of the Drive Rope to the Rope

Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2). It is called the Second Drive Rope

Clamp (#5).

(6) A Control Rope Clamp of the MARRM (#6). It secures the Control Rope of the

MARRM (#9) to the Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2).

(7) A rope section called the First Section of the Drive Rope (#7).

(8) Another rope section called the Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8).

(9) A Control Rope of the MARRM (#9).

(10) A Hanging Mass of the MARRM (#10) or any other equivalent means such as

a controlled drive motor or a Rope Retracting Flywheel (RRF) (#11, Figure 19

(b)). The RRF is secured to the RROP (#2). If a controlled drive motor or a RRF

is integrated, the Hanging Mass and the Control Rope of the MARRM (#9) are

not included.

[0161] Operations of the MARRM for RRT:

(1) When the Drive Pulley (#1) rotates anticlockwise, as the RROP is engaged

clockwise to the Drive Pulley, it is being rotated anticlockwise (by the Drive

Pulley), pulling the Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8) upwards, making the

Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8) tensioned. Mechanical power is

transmitted (anticlockwise) from the Drive Pulley (#1) to the Passive (Free)

Pulley (#3). During this phase, the Hanging Mass (#10) is moved downwards.

The MARRM might also be activated to retract the Second Section of the Drive

Rope (#8) if it is not tensioned. If the Rope Retracting Flywheel (RRF) (#11) is integrated in lieu of the Hanging Mass (#10), once the Drive Pulley (#1) stops rotating anticlockwise, thanks to an inertial force created by the RRF, the Rope

Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2) continues to rotate. Thus, the PROP

retracts the Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8) accordingly.

(2) When the Drive Pulley (#1) is in the phase of either rotating clockwise or idling,

if the Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8) is not tensioned, the Hanging Mass

(#10) pulls the Control Rope of the MARRM (#9) downwards, rotating the Rope

Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2) anticlockwise (because the (RROP) (#2)

is not engaged to the Drive Pulley anticlockwise). Thus, the Second Section of

the Drive Rope (#8) is retracted., making the Drive Rope to be tensioned. If the

Drive Pulley (#1) is not idle (It is rotating clockwise), the Drive Pulley is also

transmitting mechanical power to the Passive (Free) Pulley (#3) as it is pulling

the First Section of the Drive Rope (#7) upwards.

(3) Thus, the Drive Pulley (#1) can transmit mechanical powerto the Passive (Free)

Pulley (#3) in both clockwise and anticlockwise rotational directions while

keeping the Drive Rope always tensioned.

[0162] In lieu of using Control Ropes and Hanging Masses, Rope Retracting Flywheel

(RRF)s can be applied. In addition, electronic control systems using controlled drive

motors instead of mechanical hanging Masses or RRFs, can also be applied.

[0163] The MARRM for Linear-to-Rotational Transmissions (MARRM for LRT) (Figure

19 (c) and (d))

[0164] The principle of the MARRM For Linear-to-Rotational and Rotational-to

Rotational Transmissions are the same. The bottom end of the First Section of the

Drive Rope (#7) and the top end of the Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8) are

secured to the main structure at (#14 and #15) whereas the Sliding Pulley Compound

(#13) slides upwards or downwards.

[0165] Components of the MARRM for LRT:

(1) A One-way Drive Pulley (#1). It is engaged with the Drive Axis (#16) in its

clockwise direction and disengaged in its anticlockwise direction.

(2) A Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2). The RROP is a child pulley of

the Drive Pulley (#1). It is engaged with the Drive Pulley in its anticlockwise

direction and disengaged in its clockwise direction.

(3) A clamp which secures the top end of the First Section of the Drive Rope (#7)

to the Drive Pulley (#1) while its bottom end is secured to the main structure

at (#14). It is called the First Drive Rope Clamp.

(4) A clamp which secures the bottom end of the Second Section of the Drive

Rope (#8) to the Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2) while the its top

end is secured to the main structure at (#15). It is called the Second Drive

Rope Clamp.

(5) A rope section called the First Section of the Drive Rope (#7).

(6) Another rope section called the Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8).

(7) A Rope Retracting Flywheel (RRF) (#11, Figure 19 (b)) or a controlled drive

motor. The RRF is secured to the RROP (#2).

(8) The Drive Axis (#16), and the One-way Drive Pulley (#1), and the Rope

Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2), and the Rope Retracting Flywheel

(RRF) (#11) belong to the Sliding Pulley Compound (#13).

[0166] Operations of the MARRM for LRT:

(1) Upward Motions: Figure 19 (c) presents a One-way Drive Pulley (#1) rotating

clockwise when the whole Sliding Pulley Compound (#13) slides upwards. As

the One-way Drive Pulley (#1) is engaged to the Drive Axis (#16) in its clockwise

direction, the One-way Drive Pulley (#1) rotates the Drive Axis (#16) clockwise.

When the Sliding Pulley Compound (#13) stops sliding upwards, if the Second

Section of the Drive Rope (#8) is not tensioned, the inertial force of the Rope

Retracting Flywheel (RRF) (#11) continues rotating the Rope Retracting One

way Pulley (RROP) (#2) clockwise. Thus, the Second Section of the Drive Rope

(#8) is retracted.

(2) Downward Motions: Figure 19 (d) presents a One-way Drive Pulley (#1)

rotating clockwise when the Sliding Pulley Compound (#13) slides downwards.

Similarly, As the One-way Drive Pulley (#1) is engaged to the Drive Axis (#16)

in its clockwise direction, the One-way Drive Pulley (#1) rotates the Drive Axis

(#16) clockwise. When the Sliding Pulley Compound (#13) stops sliding

downwards, if the Second Section of the Drive Rope (#8) is not tensioned, the

inertial force of the Rope Retracting Flywheel (RRF) (#11) continues rotating

the Rope Retracting One-way Pulley (RROP) (#2) clockwise. Thus, the Second

Section of the Drive Rope (#8) is retracted.

[0167] Figure 19 (c) and Figure 19 (d) present the MARRM applied for bidirectional

linear to rotational mechanical power transmission systems: The upward and

downward linear motions are handled by mechanisms illustrated in Figure 19 (c) and

Figure 19 (d).

1.27 The Method of Controlled Variable Elevation (MCVE)

[0168] The MCVE is developed to apply for floating objects, including energy systems

such as solar energy systems, wind energy systems, wave energy systems and

particularly, wave energy convertors.

[0169] In order to generate electric power, Linear Motion Drive Shafts or rotors of

electric generators must be able to move/rotate differently (called differential

motions) in comparison with stators.

[0170] In case of wave energy systems, differential motions can be created using

different types of dampers which connect to either stators or rotors. The method is

focused as follows: Movable Groups need to move upwards and downwards upon

waves whereas Stationed Groups are required limiting motions by being hold at

desired elevations thanks to using damping or anchoring/ mooring systems. As a

result, energy of the created differential motions can be converted to electricity by

using electric generators.

[0171] The MCVE applies methods for stationing Stationed Groups at Desired Variable

Elevations, which vary over time, by:

(1) using dampers, either active or passive, such as gas (air, coil) spring dampers,

Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Dampers, SHHDs or Flexible Porous Net of Wave

Absorbers/ Dampers (FPNWA/D)s, and

(2) using anchors/ moors such as mooring to ground, mooring to dampers and

mooring to other floating objects.

[0172] Desired Variable Elevations, where Stationed Groups are stationed, need to be

determined regarding to:

(1) Maximizing wave energy harvested or, equivalently, maximizing Travel Range

of (Vertically) Slidable Floats while Stationed Floats are being stationed.

(2) Floating the structure of energy systems (wind/ wave/solar), particularly the

wave energy system at Desired Variable Elevations.

[0173] The MCVE provides a method to constantly re-establish Desired Variable

Elevations regarding to elevations of tops and bottoms of waves. The target of the

method is to position the Stationed Group at Desired Variable Elevations with resisting

its upward motions based on damping or anchoring/ mooring.

[0174] Thus, purposes of MCVE are:

(1) Keeping energy systems (wind/ wave/ solar), particular Wave Energy Systems,

floating and being stable.

(2) Adapting varies of waves automatically, including varies of average water

levels.

(3) Harvesting wave energy for electric generators based on creating differential

motions of rotors and stators. The MCVE aims to gain longer Travel Ranges of

(Vertically) Slidable Floats for larger amount of wave energy converted to

electricity. Thus, in order to be able to slide from tops to bottoms of waves,

the following requirements must be fulfilled:

(a) The sliding guide structure (the Floating Posts) must be tall enough.

(b) The Stationed Group (Floating Posts) needs to be stationed at desired

elevations allowingthe (Vertically) Slidable Floats to slide coveringfrom

bottoms to tops of waves. In other words, elevations of tops and

bottoms of waves must be fitted within Travel Ranges of the (Vertically)

Slidable Floats at all times. This is done thanks to holding the Floating

Structure at desired elevations by controlling the Variable Elevation. It

is called "The Method of Controlled Variable Elevation (MCVE)". The

process of controlling is detailed in The Method of Automatic

Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR).

(4) One of the most important features of the MCVE is to be able to harvest energy

of waves with respect to full ranges from bottoms to tops of the waves.

[0175] MCVE requires integrations of the following:

(1) The Method of Applying Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper (MASHHD).

(2) The Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR).

(3) Anchoring/ mooring to FPNWA/Ds, or to ground or to other damping systems.

(4) The Solution of Extended Gas Spring (SEGS) or some types of Internal Dampers,

which are built-in wave energy convertors, may be added.

1.28 The Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR) (Figure 20)

[0176] The word "rope" here implies both "rope" and "cable' which capable to bear

tensional forces.

[0177] The MACSR is applied for floating structures or systems of floating objects,

including floating energy systems of wind, wave or solar, particularly wave energy

systems.

[0178] In order to adapt changes of the surface of water over time, Stationed Ropes

need to be controlled accordingly in order to:

(1) Maintain objects, which are being anchored/ moored via the Stationed Ropes

to ground or to submerged dampers, floating and being stable.

(2) Maintain Stationed Ropes to be tensioned at all times.

(3) Provide damping to the floating objects.

(4) Create and maximize differential motions between rotor and stator of electric

generators for generating electricity if wave energy systems are integrated.

[0179]Thus, the Stationed Ropes must be able to be:

(1) Extended automatically when waves raising up further than expected

elevations.

(2) Retracted automatically when waves going down further than expected

elevations. In this case, the Stationed Ropes are loose.

[0180] For wave energy systems, in order to maximizing generation of electricity, it is

required controlling the Stationed Ropes extended and retracted, adapting to changes

of the water surface over time.

[0181] The MACSR is developed to fulfil the above requirements.

[0182] The Mechanical MACSR:

[0183] Components of the MACSR:

[0184] The Stationed Rope (#3) is anchored/ moored downwards to ground or

submerged dampers as presented in the direction of (#1). The Hanging Mass (#2) is

hung by a rope, with the other end circling around the Pulley (#8)

[0185] The Pulley (#8) is secured to the One-way Gear (#7). The One-way Gear is

engaged (to the main structure) in its clockwise and released in its anticlockwise

rotations. The Pulley (#8) and the One-way Gear (#7) are secured to the main structure

which is supported by Stationed Floats. Thus, Stationed Ropes are able to anchor the

main structure, including Stationed Floats, at desired elevations.

[0186] Operations of the MACSR:

[0187] The process of extending: This process occurs when the (Vertically) Slidable

Float is raising upwards and the Gear Releasing Bar (#5) has been being released after

being hit by the (Vertically) Slidable Float. When a wave is too tall, the (Vertically)

Slidable Float reaches its top sliding limit of Travel Range at the Top Position and hits

the Gear Releasing Bar (#5). The Gear Releasing Bar hits the Gear Stopping Bar (#6),

making the One-way Gear (#7) released and the Stationed Rope is loose, allowing the

Stationed Rope to be extended. As the wave is raising up both the (Vertically) Slidable

Float and the Stationed Float, it is also raising up the main system structure containing the Pulley (#8), making the Stationed Rope extended and pulling up the Hanging Mass

(#2) as well. The length of the Stationed Rope is then longer and the whole system has

been moved up to a new elevation adapting to the raising water surface. This process

of extending occurs when and only when the (Vertically) Slidable Float disengage the

lock of the One-way Gear (#7) and moves up the whole system's structure.

[0188] The process of retracting: This process of retracting occurs when the process

of extending is not occurring and the Stationed Rope is loose. When the water surface

goes down, making both the (Vertically) Slidable Float and the Stationed Float going

down, causing the Stationed Rope to be loose. In this case, as the One-way Gear (#7)

always allows to rotate anticlockwise, the Hanging Mass (#2) pulls the Stationed Rope

automatically until it is stressed a gain: The Stationed Rope is retracted.

[0189] During periods of time that the (Vertically) Slidable Float moves within the

Travel Range without reaching the Top Position, the length of the Stationed Rope

remains stressed and unchanged. The whole system is floating and being stationed at

a desired elevation.

[0190] The Hanging Mass (#2) can be replaced with any other means having the same

function for retracting and extending the Stationed Rope. The One-way Gear (#7) and

its stopping/ releasing mechanisms can be replaced with any equivalent means having

the same functions.

[0191] The status of extending, retracting and being stationed of the system implies

that the system is adaptable to varies of water surface.

[0192] The Electronic MACSR:

[0193] The principle for operations of The Electronic MACSR is exactly the same with

that of the Mechanical MACSR, except the following: The Gear Releasing Bar and Gear

Stopping Bar are replaced with an electronic component such as an electronic control

system. The Hanging Mass (#2) is not included. An electric controlled drive is used to

extend or retract the Stationed Rope.

1.29 Definitions of the Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Damper (IHBD) and the Submerged

Hanging Hollow Damper (SHHD)

[0194] Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Damper is a damper based on inertial and

hydrodynamic forces for damping. Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper (SHHD) is a

(hollow) damper that is hung and submerged in water. The SHHD is a type of the IHBD

as it is able to generate inertial and hydrodynamic forces for damping.

1.30 The Method of Applying Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper (MASHHD) (Figure 21)

[0195] MASHHD is applied for floating objects, including floating energy systems,

particularly wave energy systems. In general, it is used as dampers or anchors for

stabilizing floating structures. Particularly, for generating electricity from waves, as a

damper is capable to reduce/ resist upward motions caused by waves, it helps to

separate motions of rotors and stators from motions of waves, leading to generating

electricity. The MASHHD is described below:

[0196] The abbreviation "WA/IHBD" stands for "Wave Absorber/ Inertial

Hydrodynamic Based Damper".

[0197] Stationed Groups or Stationed Floats (#3) are anchored/ moored downwards

to WA/IHBDs (#1). The WA/IHBDs are positioned deep enough in water where waves

are much less than that of the surface.

[0198] When a surface wave pushes the Stationed Floats upwards, the WA/IHBD

resists to the upward motions of the Stationed Groups or Stationed Floats thanks to:

(1) downward inertial forces created by the mass of the WA/IHBD and

(2) downward hydrodynamic forces created by the shape of the WA/IHBD when

being pulled in water and

(3) waves in deep water are much less, resulting to upward motions of the

WA/IHBD in deep water is much less than that of the surface.

[0199] The upward motions of the Stationed Groups or Stationed Floats (#3) are

limited/ resisted thanks to damping or anchoring/ mooring whereas the (Vertically)

Slidable Floats (#4) are free to move.

[0200] The shape of the WA/IHBD must meet the following requirements:

(1) The shape is appropriate to be stable when moving upwards or downwards

along the vertical direction.

(2) The shape helps to resist upward motions.

(3) The shape helps to ease downward motions.

(4) It is better to be hollow for Hydrodynamic Dampers.

[0201] The WA/IHBD can also be:

(1) Continued to be anchored/ moored to ground.

(2) Linked to a number of WA/IHBDs around or beneath via Linking Ropes/ Cables

(#7) to form a Net of Dampers which is called the Flexible Porous Net of Wave

Absorbers/ Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (FPNWA/IHBD). The

number of WA/IHBDs can also be linked together using the Net of Horizontal

Upper Connections, the Net of Vertical Connections and the Net of Horizontal

Lower Connections, making it to be a part of the System of Three-Dimensional

Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects (3DFPNFO) as illustrated in

Figure 21 (b) with (#7) and (#8).

(3) Linked to other WA/IHBDs vertically, forming a column of multiple WA/IHBDs.

[0202] An Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Damper can be an Inertial Damper or a

Hydrodynamic Damper or the combination of both Inertial and Hydrodynamic

Dampers.

[0203] If The Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR) is not applied

for the (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables, the Stationed Groups or Stationed Floats

(#3) or the Floating Posts (#5) can be anchored/ moored to the Wave Absorber/

Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Damper (WA/IHBD)s (#1) via Crossed Stationed Ropes/

Cables (#8 in Figure 21 (b)), which is also called the "Crossed Elements (Ropes/

Cables)" of the FPNWA/D or the "Net of Vertical Connections" of the System of Three

Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects (3DFPNFO). Otherwise,

If the Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR) is applied for the

(Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables, the Crossed Stationed Ropes/ Cables (#8) are

secured to the (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables directly. The same method is also

applied if the (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables are anchored/ moored to ground

instead of the WA/IHBD. These additional linkages of Crossed Stationed Ropes/ Cables

(#8) help to improve damping efficiency which maintain the whole floating structure,

including the Stationed Floats, at elevations closer to equilibrium positions thanks to

distributing motion energy of every Stationed Float to surrounding WA/IHBDs via

Crossed Stationed Ropes/ Cables.

[0204] Thus, MASHHD is a method to separate motions of a waves into different

motions of stators and rotors. The differential motions of rotor and stator are required

to generate electricity. The separation is done by using damping or anchoring/

mooring.

1.31 The Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper (SHHD) (Figure 22 to Figure 27)

[0205] The word "rope" here implies both "rope" and "cable" capable to bear

tensional forces.

[0206] The SHHD is applied for floating structures or systems of floating objects,

systems. As a damper capable to resist upward motions, it helps to separate motions

of rotors and stators from every single wave, leading to generating electricity. It also

helps to stabilize floating structures.

[0207] The SHHD is defined to be a type of Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Dampers with

hollow body. It is integrated in and applied for the MASHHD (the Method of Applying

Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper). The purpose of the development of the SHHD is

to provide damping efficiencies and anchoring to floats (Stationed Floats), which hang

the SHHD via ropes or cables. The floats (Stationed Floats) are positioned close to

water surface while the SHHD is being hung in deep water underneath, where waves are much less. Thus, the main common technical features of all types of SHHD classified below is to be able to damp floating objects based on inertial or hydrodynamic forces when being hung underneath water surface.

[0208] The principle of SHHDs working in water similar to that of parachutes working

in the air.

[0209] It helps the Stationed Floats to resist upward motions caused by waves based

on its inertial or hydrodynamic forces generated when it is being pulled up by

Stationed Floats which are raising by waves.

[0210] There arethreetypes of SHHDclassified accordingto inertial and hydrodynamic

forces:

(1) The Hydrodynamic SHHD,

(2) The Inertial SHHD, and

(3) The Combined Inertial and Hydrodynamic SHHD.

[0211] The Hydrodynamic SHHD (Figure 22):

[0212] It is a hollow cylinder (#3) with a cap of a hollow conical frustum (#2) at the

bottom. It has a hole (#1) at the top of the cap where water can get through. If the

Hydrodynamic SHHD does not have the hole (#1), it becomes the Inertial SHHD as all

the water contained has no hole to escape.

[0213] The technical features and benefits of the SHHD are:

(1) sinking down easier thanks to the cone shape of the cap. Downward

movements are also stable with the cap of cone shape.

(2) resisting to pulling upwards thanks to the cap of a hollow conical frustum with

a hole for the stability of upward motions. Thus, Stationed Floats anchored/

moored to the SHHD are being prevented from upward motions.

(3) Being light weight as the SHHD is hollow. Thus, the Stationed Floats just need

to float light SHHDs beneath.

(4) The (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables being used to hang the SHHD are

arranged in different ways to maintain the stability of upward motions and to

protect the structure of the SHHD.

[0214] The Inertial SHHD (Figure 23):

[0215] The Inertial SHHD has the same shape with The Hydrodynamic SHHD. However,

it is not hollow or, if it is hollow, it has no holes at its bottom (the top of the hollow

conical frustum).

[0216] The technical features and benefits of the SHHD are:

(1) sinking down easier thanks to the cone shape of the cap. Downward

movements are also stable with the cap of cone shape.

(2) resisting to pulling upwards thanks to inertial force caused by masses of

materials filled. Thus, Stationed Floats anchored/ moored to the SHHD are

being prevented from upward motions.

(3) Being light in weight when it is empty. It is preferred to be filled with some

types of appropriate onsite materials. Both sand and waterare preferred to be

used for filling the SHHD. The mass of sand helps the SHHD to be able to sink

and helps to create inertial force when pulling upwards. Water also helps to

create inertial force and contribute some damping effects.

(4) It is important that, the top side of the cylinder (#9) might be fully uncovered,

making the SHHD to contain water fully. However, the water will not escape

when it is being pulled up as the SHHD has no holes at its bottom. Thus, the

top opened body of the SHHD is still able to help the SHHD generating inertial

force thanks to the amount of the water contained.

(5) The difference of the Inertial SHHD in comparison with typical ones is that it is

filled with a mixture of onsite materials such as sand or water.

[0217] The (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables being used to hang the SHHD are

arranged in different ways to maintain the stability of upward motions and to protect

the structure of the SHHD.

[0218] The Combined Inertial and Hydrodynamic SHHD (Figure 24):

[0219] The Combined Inertial and Hydrodynamic SHHD comprises a hollow cylinder

(#13) with a cap of a hollow conical frustum (#12) at the bottom. It has a hole (#1) at

the top of the cap where water can get through. However, unlike The Hydrodynamic

SHHD with the solid walls of the body, the walls of the body of the SHHD (composed

of a hollow cylinderand a cap of a hollow conical frustum) are also hollow as they have

their own walls (#14), making the body of the SHHD to be a container for filling

damping materials such as water or sand.

[0220] Technical features and benefits of the SHHD: It has all technical features of both

the types of inertial force based and the hydrodynamic force based.

[0221] The SHHD Sectors (Figure 25):

[0222] The SHHD can be divided into from 2 to 32 Sectors (#17) for ease in

manufacturing, transportation, installation and maintenance. These Sectors can be

made of any appropriate materials. Each Sector can contain materials like water or

sand for inertial and hydrodynamic damping as well. Benefit of the Sectors are:

(1) Walls between sectors of the SHHD help to improve stiffness of the SHHD

structure. The walls between sectors are good to protect the structure of

the SHHD under high pressure of deep water.

(2) Easierto manufacture, transport, install and maintain as the body of SHHD

can be large.

[0223] The SHHD Net-Bag (Figure 26):

[0224] The SHHD can be embraced with Circular Ropes (#15). These Circular Ropes are

secured with Vertical Ropes (#16) which are secured together before connecting to a

(Vertically) Slidable Float via a Stationed Rope. These Ropes connected together to be

what called a Net-Bag. Benefits of the Net-Bags are:

(1) squeezing Sectors of the SHHD together.

(2) beinga rope structure protecting the SHHD, particularly when being pulled

upwards.

(3) Easier to manufacture, transport, install and maintain.

[0225] The Wrapped Used Tyre Damper (WUTD) (Figure 27):

[0226] The WUTD is composed of used tyres and a Net-Bag. Used tyres (#18) in

different sizes are wrapped randomly in bulk or in a column with a net of ropes which

is called a Net-Bag comprising Circular Ropes (#15) and Vertical Ropes (#16).

[0227] Technical features and benefits of the WUTD are described below:

(1) The shapes and masses of tyres make it to be good for creating both

hydrodynamic forces and inertial forces which help to resist upward motions

of the WUTD and, as a result, the Stationed Floats.

(2) The arrangement of used tyres in the column with bigger tyres positioned

upwards and smaller tyres positioned downwards helps to improve resisting

upward motions and ease the downward motions as well.

[0228] The method of using nets of ropes such as the Net-Bag for wrapping used tyres

helps to ease transportation, installation and maintenance.

1.32 The Solution of Maximizing Differential Motions (SMDM) (Figure 28)

[0229] The method helps to maximize creating differential motions of rotors and

stators from motions of waves for wave energy convertors or wave energy systems. It

is applied for wave energy systems, including wave energy convertors with either

linear or rotational electric generators.

[0230] Typical floating wave energy convertor (WEC)s usually use a mechanical

damping device or electronic controlled damping device connecting two component

groups of a floating WEC: The first group is connected to a stator and the second group

is connected to a rotor of an electric generator. This type of damping device might be

called "Internal Damper" because:

(1) it is usually built inside wave energy convertors, and

(2) it connects two component groups of the WEC directly. Thus, each group is

being damped by the mass of the other group via the damper.

[0231] Thus, as a result of damping effects, motions of waves cause oscillations of

these groups differently. This leads to creating differential motions of rotors and

stators for generating electricity. These (internal) damping devices work similar to

springs. However, limits of such a damper possibly are:

(1) As Internal Dampers are usually fit inside floating wave energy convertors, the

travel range of linear motions of the Internal Dampers might be quite limit in

comparison with wave heights like that of offshore waves. This leads to wasting

wave energy.

(2) Life time or mechanical spring might be quite limit for continuous motions of

waves whereas electronic controlled springs might be expensive and require

much maintenance.

(3) Capacities of dampers might be limit in comparison with huge energy of waves

and heavy weights of devices. Thus, these dampers may only cope with a small

portion of wave energy and seem to be appropriate to small waves.

[0232] The developed SMDM does not apply dampers connecting the first and the

second groups (called the Stationed Group and the Movable Group) directly. In other

words, instead of sticking these Groups together via Internal Dampers with limits of

linear motions, the SMDM applies damping externally. Features of the SMDM are

listed below:

(1) An External Damper (#1) such as an Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Damper,

particularly a SHHD, or the Ground hooks to the Floating Posts (#8) or the

Stationed Floats (#3) of the Stationed Group (#3, #8, #9) which includes the

system's floating structure (#3, #8 and #9), via (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/

Cables (#2). The (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables limits motions, which are

caused by waves, of the Stationed Group, including the Stationed Floats,

Floating Posts and the floating structure of the whole wave energy system.

(2) A compound of (Vertically) Slidable Floats (#4 or #10 or #11) slidable along the

Floating Posts (#8) from its bottom sliding limit to top sliding limit positions.

(3) The Floating Post is secured vertically to the floating structure (#3, #8 and #9)

of the system. It should be tall enough for the (Vertically) Slidable Floats to

slide covering from bottoms (#10) to tops (#4) of waves. The distance between

the top sliding limit and the bottom sliding limit positions of the Floating Post

for sliding the (Vertically) Slidable Floats is called Sliding Range.

(4) The floating structure of the whole wave energy systems is set to be stationed

(a part is floating and a part is being submerged) at the surface of water as

explained in descriptions of The Method of Controlled Variable Elevation

(MCVE), and The Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR) as

well as the Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP).

[0233] As the (Vertically) Slidable Floats are able to slide from bottoms (#10) to tops

(#4) of waves while the Stationed Floats are being hold firmly around its equilibrium

position by appropriate External Dampers, which are possible to provide appropriate

damping efficiencies, the differential motions between the Stationed Floats and the

(Vertically) Slidable Floats are able to be maximized. As a result, the differential

motions (called Differential Motions) between the rotors and the stators of generators

are also possible to be maximized.

[0234] The key developed features of the SMDM are:

(1) Maximizing Differential Motions by using two floats (Stationed Floats and

(Vertically) Slidable Floats) with External Dampers instead of using one float.

(2) Maximizing Sliding Range of (Vertically) Slidable Floats by:

(a) Maximizing Differential Motions, and

(b) using a Floating Post integrated with sliding rails (such as the Surrounding

Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP) integrated with the (Prestressed)

Structural Rail Tube/ Beam), making the (Vertically) Slidable Floats to be

able to reach tops and bottoms of waves.

(c) As the (Vertically) Slidable Float is developed to be able to slide upwards

and downwards, fully covering from tops to bottoms of waves, the SMDM

can help to harvest more wave energy.

[0235] A wave energy system includes a number of External Dampers, (Vertically)

Slidable Floats, Stationed Floats, Stationed Ropes and Floating Posts which are key

components related to the SMDM.

1.33 The Revolution Roller Guide (RRG) (Figure 29 and Figure 30)

[0236] The RRG is applied for wave energy systems and (floating/ grounding) solar

tracking systems for supporting and guiding tubes/ beams of sliding structures (called

Sliding Structures), or ropes/ cables of mechanical power transmission systems.

[0237] It has three types depending on using purposes applied for wave/ solar energy

systems:

(1) The Sliding Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG), and

(2) The Sliding Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SERRG), and

(3) The Transmitting Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (TERRG).

[0238] The Sliding Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG) (Figure 29)

[0239] The SURRG is a Sliding Revolution Guide applied for wave energy systems. Its

main function is to be applied for linear Sliding Structures. It is particularly developed

to support a special Sliding Structure which is called "the Vertical Sliding Floating

Structure (VSFS)" with heavy loads sliding along Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (SRTB)s

(#2) which belong to main structures of floating energy systems. A Vertical Sliding

Floating Structure (VSFS) requires a number of SURRGs integrated at positions

arranged in three dimensions.

[0240] The SURRG is developed to meet requirements of linear motions of wave

energy systems. The requirements are listed below:

(1) Handling linear motions of Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS)s, usually

vertically, with quite large horizontal forces caused by waves.

(2) Preventing twisting motions of Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS)s with

heavyloads.

(3) Frictions should be reduced by using rollers with bearings for SURRG.

(4) Linear motions of Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS)s need to be guided

along SRTBs by using SURRG.

(5) SRTBs function as both rails for sliding and beams for bending resistance. The

SRTB can be integrated with prestressed ropes: It is a Centred Prestressed

Rope Beam (CPRB) combined with rails for sliding a structure. In this case, the

SRTB it is called "Prestressed Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (Prestressed SRTB)"

[0241] Components and operations of the SURRG are:

(1) Two Revolution Guide Roller (RGR)s (#8). Each RGR has two bearings and an

axis. The RGR can be round or polygon (such as square, pentagon, hexagon,

heptagon, octagon....) for the SRTB to slide through.

(2) (Prestressed) Structural Rail Tube/ Beam ((Prestressed) SRTB) (#2).

(3) Cross sections of the (Prestressed) SRTB can be hollow cylinders or hollow

polygons. It might and might not have two Structural Rail Bar (SRB)s (#16 in

Figure 29) along its body for anti- twisting motions and structural connections

as well as sliding. Some types of cross sections of the (Prestressed) SRTB are

presented in Figure 29 (c): round, square, hexagon and octagon.

(4) Each RGR should have two cylinders which are called RGR's Cylinders (#9) at its

two ends for rolling on the two SRBs (#16) and for anti-twisting.

(5) The two RGRs rolls on the main body of the SRTB as well as its two SRBs. Some

types of cross sections of the SRTB with SRBs are presented in Figure 29 (c).

Quantity of SRBs surrounding the SRTB must be at least two.

(6) The Unclosed Structural Ring (USR) (#10) securing the two RGRs. The USR has

a mount opened to allow structural connections of the (Prestressed) SRTB to

the main floating structure of the energy system. The structural connections

allow the SURRG sliding thanks to the opened mount of the USR.

(7) The two SRBs help to prevent twisting motions. If the (Prestressed) SRTB is a

hollow polygon, the two SRBs for anti-twisting may not be necessary.

(8) A number of the SURRG can be integrated in linear sliding components of wave

energy systems such as (Vertically) Slidable Floats or Vertical Sliding Floating

Structures.

[0242] The Sliding Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG) is different with roller

guides such as the Transmitting Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (TERRG) as explained

below:

(1) Rings of roller guides (or TERRGs) are usually enclosed. Roller guides (or

TERRGs) work with tensional forces which appear along ropes/ cables.

(2) Ropes/ cables are flexible when used with roller guides (or TERRGs).

(3) Ropes/ cables connect to main structures at two ends when used with roller

guides (or TERRGs).

(4) In contrast, rings of SURRG must be unclosed because Structural Rail Tubes/

Beams have to secured to main large structures at multiple points.

(5) SURRG must also work with large horizontal and twisting forces caused by

waves.

(6) Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (used with SURRG) are not flexible like ropes/

cables (Used with roller guides (or TERRGs)).

(7) SURRGs roll along Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams whereas ropes/ cables slide

through roller guides (orTERRGs).

(8) The SURRG is not able to work alone: A number of SURRG are secured to a

structure in three dimensions, supporting the structure sliding along Floating

Posts. In contrast, rollerguides (orTERRGs) can work alone.

(9) The SURRG is able to prevent twisting motions of Sliding Structures thanks to

cylinders (#9) included at two ends of the RGRs in working together with SRBs

(#16).

[0243] The Sliding Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SERRG)

[0244] The Unclosed Structural Ring (USR) (#10) might not be required to be unclosed

in some cases. Instead of using the USR, an Enclosed Structural Ring (ESR) which is annular, can be integrated. The Sliding Revolution Roller Guide with ESRs integrated is called the Sliding Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SERRG). The SERRG is classified as a version of the Sliding Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG).

[0245] The Transmitting Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (TERRG) (Figure 30).

[0246] The TERRG is applied for wave energy systems and (floating or grounding) solar

tracking systems for guiding ropes/ cables.

[0247] The roles and technical features of the TERRGs for wave energy systems and

solar tracking systems are:

(1) Due to large and slow motions of waves leading to large displacements,

transmission systems using ropes, cables, chains, and belts required to be

guided.

(2) The TERRGs ensure accuracy of sliding motions of ropes/ cables. It also reduces

frictions as well as protects structures, ropes, cables, and belts.

(3) It Helps to improve efficiency of mechanical power transmissions, leading to

efficiency of wave energy systems and solar tracking systems.

(4) It is Developed to cope with long distance mechanical power transmissions as

well as oscillations by waves

[0248] The applications of the TERRG are:

[0249] For guiding drive ropes: applied for transmission systems or any other systems

of floating or grounding energy systems such as:

(1) The Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes

(BLRTS By DR)

(2) The Twisting Rotational-to-Rotational Transmission System by Drive Ropes

(TRRTS By DR) or the Twisting Linear-to-Rotational Transmission System by

Drive Ropes (TLRTS By DR). The TRRTS By DR and the TLRTS By DR are applied

for both wave energy systems and solar tracking systems.

(3) The Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR)

[0250] There are two types of TERRG:

(1) Rectangular Roller Guide (Figure 30 (a))

(2) Revolution Roller Guide (Figure 30 (b), (c), (d))

[0251] Revolution Roller Guide: It composes of two revolution rollers forming a

circular or polygonal or rectangular hole for ropes sliding through linearly. The shape

of the revolution roller is advantaged to integrates two bearings (#6) at its two ends.

Some types of Rollers are presented in Figure 30: Circular Roller (#3), Square Roller

(#4), and Hexagon Roller (#5).

[0252] Rectangular Roller Guide: It composes of four Cylindrical Rollers (#2) forming a

square or rectangular hole for ropes/ cables getting through linearly.

[0253] The TERRG are required for floating or grounding energy systems to cope with

long distance transmissions and oscillations by waves. It can be integrated in tensioner

guides or structures where required.

1.34 The Liquid Kinetic Damping Float (LKDF) (Figure 31).

[0254] The LKDF is applied for floating objects, including floating energy system,

particularly wave energy systems.

[0255] Kinetic Damping implies the progress of regulating energy, subjected to some

kind of damping, transmitted from waves through transmission systems to electric

power generators, allowing the generators to receive energy from waves in a better

regulated time history amount of energy.

[0256] The method is to fill (Vertically) Slidable Floats partially with water. It makes

the (Vertically) Slidable Floats to be able to:

(1) Gain more weights for accumulating more kinetic energy and converting the

kinetic energy to potential energy when the (Vertically) Slidable Floats are

being raised upwards by waves and

(2) Release and send the accumulated energy (in the form of potential energy)

through transmission systems to electric generators when the (Vertically)

Slidable Floats are going downwards.

(3) be liquid dampers, which help to resist horizontal motions of structures caused

by waves.

[0257] The LKDF is developed for regulating energy transmitted from waves to electric

generators. During the first phase that the (Vertically) Slidable Floats moving upwards,

a part of wave energy is transmitted and then used to generate electricity. Another

amount of wave energy is accumulated in the form of potential and kinetic energies

when the mass of water in the (Vertically) Slidable Floats moved up to higher

elevations. Then the accumulated energy is used to continue generating electricity

during the second phase, in which the (Vertically) Slidable Floats are moving down.

Thus, the transmitted wave energy is more regulated, making the electric generator

to be rotated smoother. As a result, the wave energy converted rate is improved and

the electric current generated is more regulated before reaching inverters.

[0258] In addition, the liquid filled (Vertically) Slidable Floats contribute damping

efficiency in resisting horizontal motions of the system structure as well.

[0259] The partially liquid filled (Vertically) Slidable Float is called the Liquid Kinetic

Damping Float.

1.35 (Prestressed) Structural Rail Tube/ Beam ((Prestressed) SRTB)

[0260] A Structural Rail Tube/ Beam (SRTB) is composed of a structural tube or beam

with rails attached along its body for sliding an object.

[0261] A Prestressed Structural Rail Tube/ Beam (Prestressed SRTB) is a Structural Rail

Tube/ Beam (SRTB) with prestressed ropes/ cables integrated similar to Dual

Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)s. In other words, the Prestressed SRTB is also a type

of DPRBs.

1.36 The Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP) (Figure 32)

[0262] The SPFP is applied for floating energy systems, particularly wave energy

systems, wind energy systems and solar energy systems. It can also be applied for

grounding solar energy systems where tall posts are required.

[0263] Floating Post is a post bearing components of floating energy systems,

including:

(1) Wave Energy Convertors: (Vertically) Slidable Floats, Bidirectional Linear to

Rotational Transmission System (BLRTS) for Wave Energy Systems, electric

generators, Stationed Ropes, related structures or components, and related

loads. Other components of Wave Energy Systems are also included.

(2) Solar Energy Systems: solar panels, related structures or components, and

related loads.

(3) Wind Energy Systems: wind turbines, related structures or components, and

related loads.

(4) Anchoring/ mooring systems and damping systems.

[0264] Floating Post is not only a component of the wave energy systems but also the

main part of the system's structure, responsible for stability and functions of the

system's structure floating on the body of water. Main roles of the Floating Post are:

(1) Bearing a Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS) (#15) with (Vertically)

Slidable Floats attached on the body of water, adapting large loads of waves,

winds, and anchoring/ mooring systems or damping systems.

(2) Being a part of the transmission systems to transmit mechanical energy from

waves to electric generators. It is where the transmission systems are secured

and arranged.

(3) Being where Stationed Floats are secured and Stationed Ropes (#5) are

mounted. It has an important role for damping the Stationed Group of the

whole system, enabling the process of generating electricity from waves. It is

a main part to split energy of waves in creating differential motions of rotors

and stators of electric generators.

(4) Supporting floating solar energy systems, including solar tracking systems. Its

roles as a floating post or a floating object in the System of Three-Dimensional

Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects (3DFPNFO), allowing the solar

energy systems, including solar tracking systems, to be integrated.

(5) Supporting floating wind energy systems including wind turbines.

(6) Maintaining the stability of the whole system's structure, including its

structural connections to damping/ anchoring/ mooring systems or to other

Floating Posts.

[0265] The Floating Post developed for the HESSWW (the Adaptive Flexible Hybrid

Energy Systems of Solar, Wave and Wind) is called "The Surrounding Prestressed

Floating Post (SPFP)".

[0266] Components of the SPFP:

(1) A Central Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (Central SRTB) (#1) which has its cross

section presented in Figure 32 (e). The Central SRTB might have a number of

Structural Rail bar (SRB)s around (Figure 32 (h)). Cross sections of the Central

SRTB might be round or polygon. The Central SRTB might also be a

(Prestressed) SRTB with prestressed ropes/ cables integrated similar to the

Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB). The Central SRTB also integrates

Transmitting Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (TERRG)s (#11) for guiding

(Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables (Figure 32 (e)).

(2) A number of (Prestressed) Structural Rail Tube/ Beam ((Prestressed) SRTB)

(#2), which has its cross section presented in Figure 32 (f), distributed around

the Central SRTB. Depending on circumstances, these SRTBs can either be

prestressed or not to be prestressed (either to be a Prestressed SRTB or

simply a SRTB).

(3) A number of Floating Post's Crossed Frame (FPCF) (#3).

(4) A number of Floating Post's Surrounding Frame (FPSF) (#4).

(5) A Stationed Rope/ Cable (#5).

(6) A number of Crossed Bars/ Ropes/ Cables of the FPCF (#6).

(7) A number of Crossed Bars/ Ropes/ Cables of the FPSF (#7).

(11) A number of Transmitting Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (TERRG) (#11).

(12) A number of Circular Rope Supports (#12).

(13) A number of Tensional Ropes/ Cables (#13).

(14) A number of Sliding Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG) (#14) secured

to Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS)s (#15) for sliding on and along the

body of the SPFP.

(15) A number of Dual Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)s can be integrated where

required.

[0267] Arrangements of the components of the SPFP:

(1) A number of FPCF (#3) are secured to the a Central SRTB (#1).

(2) Every FPCF (#3) is secured with a (Prestressed) SRTB (#2).

(3) Every pair of consecutive (Prestressed) SRTBs (#2) of every pair of consecutive

FPCFs (#6) are connected via a FPSF (#4).

(4) A number of Sliding Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG) (#14) are

installed slidable along the body of the (Prestressed) SRTBs (#2). All installed

SURRGs are secured to the Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS) (#15)

which bears (Vertically) Slidable Floats.

(5) A Stationed Rope/ Cable (#5) is installed inside and along the Central SRTB

(#1) with a number of TERRG (#11) included for guiding and supporting the

Stationed Rope.

(6) A number of Tensional Rope/ Cable (#13) are installed inside every

(Prestressed) SRTB (#2) with a number of Circular Rope Support (#12)

included.

(7) Quantity and arrangements of the (Prestressed) SRTB (#2), the FPCF (#3), the

FPSF (#4), the SURRG) (#14), and other components installed around the

Central SRTB (#1) may vary.

(8) Instead of using the whole length of the Central SRTB, sections of the Central

SRTB with built in TERRG can be applied for light loads.

(9) The Crossed Bars/ Ropes/ Cables of the FPCF (#6) and FPSF (#7) can be ropes,

cables, bars (for tension) or trusses (for both tension and compression).

(10) A Cross section of the Central Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (Central SRTB)

(#1) is presented in Figure 32 (e).

(11) A Cross section of the (Prestressed) Structural Rail Tube/ Beam ((Prestressed)

SRTB) (#2) is presented in Figure 32 (f).

(12) A Cross section of the Sliding Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG) (#14)

with (Prestressed) SRTB (#2) integrated in the center is presented in Figure

32 (g).

(13) An arrangement of a SPFP with a number of SURRGs and a Vertical Sliding

Floating Structure (VSFS) is presented in Figure 32 (b). The number of SURRG

applied for the SPFP may vary.

[0268] The Simplified SPFP: The SPFP has a simplified version, which is called "the

Simplified SPFP", applied for lighter loads or shorter length, particularly for structures

working on smaller waves. The Simplified SPFP has the following main components:

(1) A Central Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (Central SRTB) (#1), similar to the full

version of the SPFP above. A number of Structural Rail Bar (SRB)s should be

attached to the body of the Central SRTB for sliding and anti-twisting. Some

types of crossed sections of the Simplified SPFP are presented in Figure 32 (h).

(2) A number of Sliding Enclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SERRG)s integrated with

Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS)s (#15) sliding on the body of the

Simplified SPFP. The SERRGs are applied with the Simplified SPFP instead of

SURRGs.

(3) Other structures of the SPFP, which surround the Central SRTB, are not

required because the Simplified SPFP bears less loads than the full version of

SPFP.

(4) The Simplified SPFP might or might not be prestressed as it bears lighter loads.

(5) The main function of the Simplified SPFP is to support Vertical Sliding Floating

Structure (VSFS) for both sliding and anti-twisting.

[0269] Columns of wind turbines or any other stable floating or grounding objects can

be considered to be functional as a Central Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (Central SRTB)

(#1) of Floating Posts. Thus, components of the SPFP can be attached to the above

columns/ objects to create a type of Floating Post.

1.37 The Vertical Sliding Floating Structure (VSFS) (Figure 33)

[0270] The VSFS is applied for wave energy systems, including wave energy

convertors. It is a key component to create differential motions between rotors and

stators of electric generators.

[0271]Technicalfeatures ofthe VSFS:

(1) The VSFS, which is integrated in wave energy systems, is a structure floating

and sliding along a Floating Post of a floating structure on a body of water.

(2) The VSFS is slidable with an option of using roller guides such as the Sliding

Unclosed Revolution Roller Guide (SURRG) or the Sliding Enclosed Revolution

Roller Guide (SERRG) (#3) for guiding and supporting the VSFS on the body of

water. Roller guides can be excluded if friction is accepted when sliding the

structure. Other methods such as usingwater may be applied to reduce friction

instead of applying Revolution Roller Guide (RRG)s.

(3) It bears (Vertically) Slidable Floats (#8) for harvesting wave energy.

(4) It bears a part of mechanical power transmission systems for transmitting

harvested wave energy to electric generators.

(5) It may also bear (sliding) electric generators required by some types of

mechanical power transmission systems.

(6) Its body is strengthened with Surrounding Crossed Ropes/ Cables/ Bars/

Trusses (#4) which also helps to prevent twisting or bending. Ropes are more

preferred.

(7) It might be integrated with Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB)s or Dual

Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)s.

[0272] Components and arrangements of the VSFS:

(1) The VSFS has a number of Sliding Beams (#1) capable to bending moments

created by horizontal forces of waves. Centred Prestressed Rope Beam (CPRB)s or Dual Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)s are preferred to be incorporated in lieu of normal Sliding Beams.

(2) The VSFS has a number of Sliding Rings (#2) secured to Sliding Beams.

(3) The VSFS has a number of Roller Guides such as Sliding Unclosed Revolution

RollerGuide (SURRG)s ora numberof Sliding Enclosed Revolution RollerGuide

(SERRG)s (#3) secured to the Sliding Rings.

(4) The VSFS has a number of Surrounding Cross Ropes/ Trusses (#4) for anti

twistingand anti-bending. The Surrounding Cross Ropes/Trusses can be ropes,

cables, bars or trusses.

(5) The VSFS slides along a number of (Prestressed) Structural Rail Tube/ Beam

((Prestressed) SRTB) (#5) of the Floating Post which comprises a Central

Structural Rail Tubes/ Beams (Central SRTB) (#6), and a Stationed Rope (#7).

(6) A number of Float Hubs to hold a number of (Vertically) Slidable Floats (#8).

Multiple annular (Vertically) Slidable Floats might be arranged in elevated

layers.

(7) A Top Platform secured on top of the VSFS for bearing (sliding) electric

generators.

(8) A number of (Vertically) Slidable Floats (#8).

1.38 The Solution of Extended Gas Spring (SEGS) (Figure 34)

[0273]The word "gas" here implies gas or air or any other fluid has the same function

for springs.

[0274] SEGS is applied for floating energy systems, particularly wave energy systems.

As a damper capable to resist motions, a gas spring helps to separate motions of rotors

and stators from every single wave, leading to creating differential motions of rotors

and stators for generating electricity.

[0275] The application of gas springs in wave energy systems is a solution for Variable

Elevation Control which handles the task of harvesting and transmitting wave energy

to electric generators.

[0276] Most typical gas springs have quite short Travel Ranges in comparison with

offshore wave heights. Structures for wave energy systems are also too tall if gas

springs are accepted to be long. The Solution of Extended Gas Springforwave energy

systems helps to solve the problem, allowing the structure of energy systems not to

be too tall while maximizing Travel Ranges within limits of the system structure for

generating electricity.

[0277] Description of the SEGS:

[0278] The SEGS comprises a gas spring with a piston and a primary cylinder (#4) for

the travel of the piston. The piston is able to travel along a section of the length of the

primary cylinder around its equilibrium position.

[0279] In order to extend the travel range of the piston, the SEGS is added with

additional cylinders (#5) connecting to the primary cylinder through the Gap/ Holes

(#6). These cylinders are communicating vessels for gas.

[0280] Thanks to additional cylinders, as gas can escape from primary cylinders to

reside in additional cylinders, pressure in the primary cylinder is maintained to be

smaller for longer travel range than its equilibrium pressure which limits travel range.

Thus, the piston of the gas spring is still possible to travel further: the travel range is

extended and more wave energy is accumulated for electric generators.

[0281] Technical features of the Extended Gas Springs are:

(1) Supporting the whole system, bearing the system weight and transferring the

weight to floats.

(2) Working as shock absorbers.

(3) Handling the process of transferring wave energy to electric generator. It

eliminates the need of mechanical power transmissions. It contributes the

roles of relative (differential) motions between rotors and stators of electric

generators through arrangements of Stationed Groups (including Stationed

Floats) and Movable Groups (including (Vertically) Slidable Floats) of wave

energy systems. As a result, unlike other damping devices, the gas spring allows to use only one type of floats combined functions of (Vertically) Slidable Floats and Stationed Floats for both floating and harvesting wave energy.

(4) Working as an energy regulator or an energy damper. During the first phase of

a wave raising up, a portion of the wave energy is transmitted directly to

electric generators. Another portion of the wave energy is absorbed by the gas

spring. Then the gas spring releases the accumulated energy for electric

generators during the second phase of wave going down. Thus, the gas spring

works as energy regulators and dampers. However, Travel Ranges of gas

springs are quite limit in comparison with oscillations of waves, particularly

offshore waves.

(5) In addition to the above features of typical gas spring, the SEGS helps to extend

the Travel Range of gas springs for generating more electricity.

1.39 The Flexible Interlinked Wave Energy System (FIWES) (Figure 35)

[0282] The FIWES, which is composed of wave energy converters structurally

interlinked together, is the system responsible for the process of harvesting and

transmitting wave energy.

[0283] The FIWES is developed to adapt variations of water surface, including high

waves, tides and tsunamis.

[0284] The components and the arrangement of the FIWES are described below:

(1) A System of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating

Objects (3DFPNFO).

(2) A number of Floating Posts or Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP)s

(#8 in Figure 35) linking together via ropes/ cables or Dual Prestressed Rope

Beam (DPRB)s (#9). These ropes/ cables or DPRBs are arranged according to

the 3DFPNFO.

(3) A number of Stationed Floats (#3) secured to the Floating Posts or the SPFPs

(#8). Shapes of the Stationed Floats can be (annular) sphere or cylinder,

composing of sectors. The Stationed Floats can also be filled up partially with

water for damping.

(4) A number of Dampers (#1) being interlinked together via Linking Ropes (#10)

to form a Net of Dampers which is called the Flexible Porous Net of Wave

Absorbers/ Dampers (FPNWA/D). Particularly and similarly, the Inertial

Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (#1), which are dampers based on inertial

and/or hydrodynamic forces can also be interlinked together via Linking

Ropes (#10) to form the Flexible Porous Net of Wave Absorbers/ Inertial

Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (FPNWA/IHBD), can also be included. In

addition, Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper (SHHD)s, which are defined as

a specific type of Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Dampers, are possible to be

included as well.

(5) A number of (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables (#2) and Crossed Stationed

Ropes/ Cables (#11) hanging the number of Inertial Hydrodynamic Based

Dampers (#1), including the FPNWA/IHBD, or anchoring to ground. The

Crossed Stationed Ropes/Cables is alsocalled the "Crossed Elements (Ropes/

Cables)" of the FPNWA/D or the "Net of Vertical Connections" of the System

of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects

(3DFPNFO).

(6) A number of Rotational Electric Generators (#7) or Linear Motion Electric

Generators integrated.

(7) A number of Sliding Structures, particularly the Vertical Sliding Floating

Structure (VSFS)s. The Sliding Structures, including the (VSFS)s, may and may

not comprise the Revolution Roller Guide (RRG). The Sliding Structures slide

along bodies of the Floating Posts or the SPFPs.

(8) A number of (Vertically) Slidable Floats or Liquid Kinetic Damping Float

(LKDF)s (#4) secured to the Sliding Structures for harvesting wave energy. The

(Vertically) Slidable Floats can be composed of sectors. They can also be filled

up partially with water, making them to be the LKDFs.

(9) A number of mechanical power transmission systems (#5) such as the

Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System (BLRTS)s transferring

energy harvested by the (Vertically) Slidable Floats/ Liquid Kinetic Damping

Float (LKDF)s (#4) to the Rotational Electric Generator (#7) or Linear Motion

Electric Generators.

(10) A number of Flexible Compressible Net of Ropes (FCNR)s can be included to

support light weight components such as electric cables.

(11) A numberof Floating Damping Wave Energy Convertor (FDWEC)s, which have

electronic controlled dampers or spring dampers integrated, can also be

included.

(12) A number of Stretchable Vertical Crossed Elements (SVCE)s might be

integrated.

(13) A number of Solution of Extended Gas Spring (SEGS)s might also be

integrated.

(14) In addition, the following methods or solutions are also implemented:

(a) The Solution of Arch Waterway through Linked Floating Objects

(SAWFO)

(b) The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM)

(c) The Method of Controlled Variable Elevation (MCVE)

(d) The Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR)

(e) The Method of Applying Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper

(MASHHD)

(f) The Solution of Maximizing Differential Motions (SMDM)

[0285] The FIWES is also developed to work with not only Surrounding Prestressed

Floating Post (SPFP)s but also any type of Floating Posts (#8), including available

floating/ grounding structures/ objects such as columns of either small or tall wind

turbines, oil rigs or concrete walls. These structures/ objects can be added with

selected components of the SPFP to be functional as a SPFP. Thus, the FIWES can be

added to available offshore or nearshore wind farms as well.

1.40 The Adaptive Solar Energy System (ASES)

[0286] The Adaptive Solar Energy System is the system of solar energy, which includes

one or more of the following options to adapt different circumstances:

(1) Floating or Grounding.

(2) With or without "solar tracking".

(3) Single Axis or Dual Axes, if the option "solar tracking" is included.

[0287] Depending on which options are included, the ASES might include one or more

components/ methods below:

(1) A System of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating

Objects (3DFPNFO) linking all (floating) objects of the ASES. The 3DFPNFO can

also be applied for grounding ASESs.

(2) A number of Dual Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)s applied for drive shafts,

Drive Beams or general solar racks either to support arrays of solar panels or

to transmit mechanical power.

(3) A number of Flexible Compressible Net of Ropes (FCNR)s applied for

supporting arrays of solar panels or light weight components.

(4) The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM) applied for

mechanical power transmission systems using ropes/ cables.

(5) A number of Twisting Oscillated Mechanical Power Transmission System

(TOMPTS)s applied for (floating/ grounding) single axis or dual axes solar

tracking systems. The TOMPTS has a good transmission efficiency for either

complex terrains of grounding solar energy systems or oscillations of floating

solar energy systems. It is also a good choice for transmitting mechanical

power through multiple arrays of trackers with dual axes. Thus, the number of

drive motors required for rotating multiple solar trackers are reduced

significantly.

(6) A number of Elevational Crossed Dual Axes Pivot Arm (ECDAPA)s applied for

rotating arrays of solar trackers.

[0288] In addition, if the solar energy systems are floating, the ASES also includes the

following structural components/methods which are included in the Flexible

Interlinked Wave Energy System (FIWES):

(1) A numberof Floating Posts orSPFPs (#8 in Figure 35) linking together via ropes/

cables/ Dual Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)s (#9). These ropes/ cables/ DPRBs

are arranged according to the System of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous

Net of Multiple Floating Objects (3DFPNFO).

(2) A number of Stationed Floats (#3) secured to the Floating Posts or the

Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP)s (#8). Shapes of the Stationed

Floats can be (annular) sphere or cylinder, composing of sectors. The

Stationed Floatscan alsobefilled up partiallywith water for damping.

(3) A number of Dampers (#1) being interlinked together via Linking Ropes (#10)

to form a Net of Dampers which is called the Flexible Porous Net of Wave

Absorbers/ Dampers (FPNWA/D). Particularly and similarly, the Inertial

Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (#1), which are dampers based on inertial

and/or hydrodynamic forces can also be interlinked together via Linking

Ropes (#10) to form the Flexible Porous Net of Wave Absorbers/ Inertial

Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (FPNWA/IHBD), can also be included. In

addition, Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper (SHHD)s, which are defined as

a specific type of Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Dampers, are possible to be

included as well.

(4) A number of (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables (#2) and Crossed Stationed

Ropes/ Cables (#11) hanging the number of Inertial Hydrodynamic Based

Dampers (#1), including the FPNWA/IHBD, or anchoring to ground. The

Crossed Stationed Ropes/Cables is also called the "Crossed Elements (Ropes/

Cables)" of the FPNWA/D or the "Net of Vertical Connections" of the System

of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects

(3DFPNFO).

(5) In addition, the following methods or solutions are also implemented:

(a) The Solution of Arch Waterway through Linked Floating Objects

(SAWFO)

(b) The Method of Applying Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper

(MASHHD)

[0289] It is notable that, thanks to its capability to work with long span of the DPRBs,

and thanks to other characteristics of its flexible structure, the ASES is also appropriate

to work on complex terrains with long spans. The 3DFPNFO can also be integrated in

grounding solar energy systems for strengthening the system structure by interlinking

posts together via ropes/ cables. In addition, arrays of solar panels are mounted to

ASES's structures, which are secured to Floating Posts or Surrounding Prestressed

Floating Post (SPFP)s.

1.41 The Adaptive Flexible Hybrid Energy Systems of Solar, Wave and Wind (HESSWW)

(Figure 35)

[0290] The HESSWW is an energy system that combines the energy system of wind,

the energy system of wave and the energy system of solar such as the ASES into a

single energy system based on flexible structure of the System of Three-Dimensional

Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects (3DFPNFO).

[0291] The HESSWW is combined from the Adaptive Solar Energy System (ASES) and

the Flexible Interlinked Wave Energy System (FIWES) and wind turbines.

[0292] Thus, the HESSWW composes all the following components/ methods of the

FIWES arranged as follows:

(1) A System of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating

Objects (3DFPNFO)

(2) A numberof Floating Posts orSurrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFPs (#8

in Figure 35) linking together via ropes/ cables/ Dual Prestressed Rope Beam

(DPRB)s (#9). These ropes/ cables/ DPRBs are arranged according to the

System of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects

(3DFPNFO).

(3) A number of Stationed Floats (#3) secured to the Floating Posts or the

Surrounding Prestressed Floating Post (SPFP)s (#8). Shapes of the Stationed

Floats can be (annular) sphere or cylinder, composing of sectors. The

Stationed Floats can also be filled up partially with water for damping.

(4) A number of Dampers (#1) being interlinked together via Linking Ropes (#10)

to form the Net of Dampers which is called the Flexible Porous Net of Wave

Absorbers/ Dampers (FPNWA/D). Particularly and similarly, the Inertial

Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (#1), which are dampers based on inertial

and/or hydrodynamic forces can also be interlinked together via Linking

Ropes (#10) to form the Flexible Porous Net of Wave Absorbers/ Inertial

Hydrodynamic Based Dampers (FPNWA/IHBD), can also be included. In

addition, Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper (SHHD)s, which are defined as

a specific type of Inertial Hydrodynamic Based Dampers, are possible to be

included as well.

(5) A number of (Vertical) Stationed Ropes/ Cables (#2) and Crossed Stationed

Ropes/ Cables (#11) hanging the number of Inertial Hydrodynamic Based

Dampers (#1), including the FPNWA/IHBD, or anchoring to ground. The

Crossed Stationed Ropes/Cables is also called the "Crossed Elements (Ropes/

Cables)" of the FPNWA/D or the "Net of Vertical Connections" of the System

of Three-Dimensional Flexible Porous Net of Multiple Floating Objects

(3DFPNFO).

(6) A number of Rotational Electric Generators (#7) or Linear Motion Electric

Generators integrated.

(7) A number of Sliding Structures, particularly the Vertical Sliding Floating

Structure (VSFS)s. The Sliding Structures, including the (VSFS)s, may and may

not comprise the Revolution Roller Guide (RRG). The Sliding Structures slide

along bodies of the Floating Posts or the SPFPs.

(8) A number of (Vertically) Slidable Floats or Liquid Kinetic Damping Float

(LKDF)s (#4) secured to the Sliding Structures for harvesting wave energy. The

up partially with water, making them to be the LKDFs.

(9) A number of mechanical power transmission systems (#5) such as the

Bidirectional Linear to Rotational Transmission System (BLRTS)s transferring

energy harvested by the (Vertically) Slidable Floats/ Liquid Kinetic Damping

Float (LKDF)s (#4) to the Rotational Electric Generator (#7) or Linear Motion

Electric Generators.

(10) A number of Flexible Compressible Net of Ropes (FCNR)s can be included to

support light weight components such as electric cables.

(11) A numberof Floating Damping Wave Energy Convertor (FDWEC)s, which have

electronic controlled dampers or spring dampers integrated, can also be

included.

(12) A number of Stretchable Vertical Crossed Elements (SVCE)s might be

integrated.

(13) The Solution of Extended Gas Spring (SEGS) might also be implemented.

(14) In addition, the following methods or solutions are also included:

(a) The Solution of Arch Waterway through Linked Floating Objects

(SAWFO).

(b) The Method of Automatic Rope Retracting Mechanism (MARRM)

applied for mechanical power transmission systems using ropes/

cables.

(c) The Method of Controlled Variable Elevation (MCVE).

(d) The Method of Automatic Controlled Stationed Rope (MACSR).

(e) The Method of Applying Submerged Hanging Hollow Damper

(MASHHD).

(f) The Solution of Maximizing Differential Motions (SMDM).

[0293] In addition, the HESSWW also includes the following selected components/

methods of the ASES as follows:

(1) A number of Dual Prestressed Rope Beam (DPRB)s applied for drive shafts,

Drive Beams and supporting arrays of solar panels.

(2) A number of Flexible Compressible Net of Ropes (FCNR)s applied for

supporting arrays of solar panels

(3) A number of Twisting Oscillated Mechanical Power Transmission System

(TOMPTS)s applied for (floating/ grounding) single axis or dual axes solar

tracking systems. The TOMPTS has a good transmission efficiency for both

complex terrains of grounding solar energy systems or oscillations of floating

solar energy systems. It is also a good choice for transmitting mechanical

power through multiple arrays of trackers with dual axes. Thus, the number of

drive motors required for rotating multiple solar trackers are reduced

significantly.

(4) A number of Elevational Crossed Dual Axes Pivot Arm (ECDAPA)s applied for

arrays of solar trackers.

[0294] The HESSWW is developed to work either in reservoirs or offshore. In addition,

the HESSWW is also developed to work on either floating or even grounding bases.

For the grounding HESSWW, components related to floating such as floats or floating

dampers are excluded.

Claims

1. An Adaptive Flexible Hybrid Energy Systems of Solar, Wave and Wind

(HESSWW) comprising:

• a flexible supporting structure comprising:

• an array of connected Wave Energy Converters (WEC) that harvest wave energy based

on vertical oscillations of waves;

• wherein the flexible supporting structure further comprises a Flexible Net of Non

Horizontal Connections (FNNHC) and a number of Flexible Net of Horizontal Connection

(FNHC)s; wherein:

* each FNNHC comprises a Flexible Pair of Crossed Elements (FPCE) linking each Wave

Energy Convertor (WEC) of the array to an adjacent WEC of the array;

* each WEC comprises a Structural Floating Post (SFP) floating at water surface level with

a submerged rope, cable or chain descending from the post with a wave absorbing damper

hung from the rope, cable or chain;

• each SFP being the primary support structure of each WEC and also suitable for

supporting solar panels above the water surface;

* each FPCE comprises Flexible Crossed Elements (FCE) that are either ropes, cables or

chains;

* wherein an FCE is strung between the lower ends of each SFP to the upper ends of each

adjacent SFP in the array; and an FCE is strung between the lower ends of each SFP to each

adjacent damper in the array;

* each Flexible Net of Horizontal Connections comprises a horizontal rope, cable, chain,

strung between the upper ends of each adjacent SFP in the array, the lower ends of each

adjacent SFP in the array and each adjacent damper in the array;

• and wherein each WEC:

• comprises a Vertically Slidable Float (VSF);

• wherein waves generate linearly oscillating differential motion between the VSF and its

associated SFP;

* and wherein energy of the linearly oscillated differential motions is transmitted to a

generator attached to the SFP wherein the generator converts mechanical energy to

electrical energy via gearing attached to the SFP and connected to the VSF; wherein said energy can alternatively be transmitted from the WECs via a Mechanical Power Transmission System (MPTS) to a number of other generators; • and wherein the SFP supports arrays of solar panels with or without single axis or dual axes solar tracking systems and wherein the Flexible Net of Horizontal Connections supports arrays of solar panels;

* and wherein the SFP supports wind turbines.

2. The HESSWW according to Claim 1 wherein the wind turbines and the WECs

may or may not share the same Mechanical Power Transmission System (MPTS).