DE102005019738A1 - Power plant, in particular marine wave power plant - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a power plant (1), in particular a marine wave power plant (1), comprising at least one turbine (3) to be operated by fluid and at least one generator (4) to be driven by the turbine (3). In order to further develop a power plant of the type in question, in particular for achieving a high degree of efficiency, it is proposed that the power plant (1) comprises at least one fluid circulation unit having at least one pumping chamber (5) suitable for receiving and for the time-dependent delivery of fluid ), wherein the chamber volume of the pumping chamber (5) according to flexible wall by external force, in particular by the action of ocean waves, with displacement of fluid from the pumping chamber (5) is variable, DOLLAR A at least one pressure chamber (10) with the pumping chamber ( 5) by means of at least one outlet valve (9) for the outlet of fluid from the pumping chamber (5) communicates, wherein the pressure chamber with the inlet of the turbine (3) is in communication, and DOLLAR A at least one return flow chamber (11) with the outlet of the turbine (3) is in communication and which return flow chamber (11) with the pumping chamber (5) by means of an inlet valve (12) z to communicate with inlet of fluid into the pumping chamber (5).

Description

The The invention relates to a power plant suitable for energy production from hydropower, in particular a marine wave power plant, having at least one turbine operated by fluid and at least one generator driven by the turbine.

Known are wave power plants with a rising, artificial shore, on which the waves come up, followed by the waters of the waves from the highest Shore zone driving a water turbine down a pipe. The water turbine in turn, is equipped with a generator for generating electrical Energy connected. Such wave power plants are in the form of a to the middle rising island known, the transverse extent of several is one hundred meters, wherein the pipe and the water turbine are provided in the middle of the island. By the correspondingly long rising surface of artificial banks, however, will partially destroyed the dynamic energy of the waves.

Of these, Based on the object of the invention, a power plant of the aforementioned type advantageous, in particular for achieving a high efficiency, further education.

This object is achieved according to the invention first and substantially in conjunction with the features that the power plant comprises at least one fluid circulation unit, each having at least one suitable for receiving and for temporally variable delivery of fluid pumping chamber (also referred to as the pumping part), said Chamber volume of the pumping chamber according to flexible wall by external force, in particular by the action of waves, with displacement of fluid from the pumping chamber can be reduced, at least one pressure chamber which communicates with the pumping chamber by means of at least one outlet valve for the outlet of fluid from the pumping chamber into the pressure chamber and with which pressure chamber the inlet of the turbine is in communication and at least one return flow chamber communicating with the outlet of the turbine and which return flow chamber with the pumping chamber by means of an inlet valve for introducing fluid from the return flow chamber into the pump chamber mer communicates. In this case, for the operation of the turbine preferably a compressible fluid such as gas, in particular air, may be provided. The mode of operation is such that the fluid circulating in operation in the fluid circulation unit initially fills the pumping chamber in an initial or idle state. By external force, in particular by the action of ocean waves, on the flexible wall of the pumping chamber fluid is pressed from the pumping chamber through the outlet valve into the pressure chamber and reduced so that it comes in the pressure chamber to a rapid increase in pressure reducing their chamber volume. The outlet valve is designed such that a return flow of fluid into the pumping chamber is not possible by the outlet valve. The compressed in the pressure chamber fluid is supplied to the turbine for driving and passes to the turbine outlet in the return flow chamber. The driving force is thus the pressure difference between the pressure chamber and the backflow chamber, wherein there is a gradual pressure drop in the pressure chamber during the running of the turbine. From the return flow chamber, the fluid returns to the pumping chamber through the inlet valve when the inlet valve is in its open position. This is preferably the case when the pressure in the return flow has become greater than the pressure in the pumping chamber, in particular when after the decay of the force of a sea wave, a certain operating time of the turbine has elapsed. As a result of the solution according to the invention, the externally acting force or energy, preferably a sea wave, is utilized almost completely for energy conversion or generation by a generator or the like, so that a high level of efficiency can be achieved. It is advantageous that a more uniform operation is made possible even with an impact force acting external force by utilizing a certain storage effect in the pressure chamber. As explained in more detail below, the power plant according to the invention for generating energy by means of a generator or the like on the one hand preferably a targeted adaptation to the exploitation of the energy of sea waves, alternatively, by deviating design and arrangement a targeted vote for the use of Tidenhubes possible. With regard to the possible utilization of the energy or force of sea waves is preferably an arrangement or use of the power plant according to the invention near the coast into consideration, where the waves pile up as a result of flattening underground and more or less always roll from the same direction. Although the energy of the waves accumulates only intermittently, the power plant according to the invention provides the possibility for a comparatively continuous operation of the turbine and a generator connected thereto. This is because instead of using the shafts directly to the turbine engine, their energy is used to compress the fluid used to operate the turbine, preferably air, in the pressure chamber, followed by a gradual flow of fluid in the pressure chamber to the turbine for operation Pressure drop until a new pressure increase by a later wave comes, etc. In this way, the energy peaks of the waves can be significantly smoothed in the conversion into electrical energy. The energy contained in the waves is used almost indirectly by displacing and compressing fluid or air. The energy stored in the compressed fluid is uniformly delivered to the turbine as it flows through the turbine, ie during the decompression associated therewith. While relying in the state-of-the-art hydropower plant to rely on the energy contained in the level difference of the height of fall in the vertical, the energy contained in the compressed air can be exploited in any position and decentralized, which also described below connected systems allows cost-effective solutions. In this context, as a turbine - known per se - air turbine, ie in principle any suitable for operation with air, in particular cold air, suitable turbine can be used. On the other hand, the design would also be suitable for a turbine, as is otherwise used as a gas turbine with hot gas or as an exhaust gas turbine (for example, in a turbocharger of a diesel engine). This is due to the fact that not the seawater of the waves themselves, but a first compressed by the seawater fluid, preferably air, is used to operate the turbine. In a preferred, to be described in more detail below vote of the power plant on the use of sea wave energy, the flexible wall of the pumping chamber is exposed to the force of waves. In order to be able to use the energy of the sea waves independently of the tide, ie at any time, the hydropower plant can in particular be kept floating and possibly anchored in such a way that it follows the tidal range unhindered, whereby no use of the tides themselves for energy generation takes place. On the other hand, as already mentioned, the system according to the invention with the air displacement could alternatively also be tuned to use the tidal range for energy generation. For this purpose, there is the possibility that a number of preferably rubber-elastic containers filled with air or a comparable fluid are anchored on the seafloor, which lie directly below the water level at low tide. At high tide, the air in the containers is compressed and could be used either decentralized or centrally, for example. On land for energy. It is conceivable that with such a system using the tide based on an area of one square kilometer with a tidal range of ten meters, a continuous output of about 2 megawatts can be achieved.

Again with respect to the preferred embodiment within the scope of the invention of the power plant as a marine wave power plant, there is the possibility that a number of floats and / or in particular with the fluid for operating the turbine filled floating chambers is provided so that the power plant is buoyant. This makes possible, that the wave power plant is independent of the tide with respect to the respective water level on a for the force of the waves on the pump chamber suitable level is held. It also makes sense the possibility, that the power plant has anchoring means, which on the underground, on the shore or the like are fastened. As such, they are preferable attached to the power plant ropes, chains or the like into consideration to draw on the ground, shore etc., for example by weight, Entanglement or in any other suitable manner. By such anchors can be on the one hand, achieve that the wave power plant in the surf zone held, d. H. against an undesirable Abortion is secured. The float (s) may vary in terms of Arrangement and design also be tuned to at an impact of waves on the top of the power plant, specifically the pumping chamber to avoid dodging the system down. Thus, a floating chamber may be preferred below the pumping chamber extend. Also, an anchoring particular on the ground (Seabed) in such a way that thereby limited Length of Cords, chains or the like a certain limitation of buoyancy caused buoyancy arises. One possible meaning may be in it lie by such an anchoring an undesirable Floating the wave power plant to avoid a larger, approaching without breaking wave is. In this context, it is preferred that the anchoring means adapted to a balance of the tide. This is for example thereby possible that a certain length needed to balance the tide is anchored to the ground Ropes or the like depends only on the tide, for example, time or from a sensor dependent, is released, allowing a further lifting to float not possible on waves is. Another possibility is seen in that by suitable means only to the gradual Tidal compensation necessary Length of the Ropes are slowly released (or picked up) while fast Change by waves lead to a blocking effect. In conjunction with individual or several features is preferred that by means of the number of floats and / or Anchoring means the altitude of the wave power plant in relation to the mean water level, d. H. the waterline is adjustable. In terms of the desired Force application of the waves to the pumping chamber is preferred that in the adjusted altitude the wave power plant, the pumping chamber at least in sections, preferably predominantly or just above the waterline.

Regarding the pumping chamber is preferred intended to a configuration in which this at least partially bounded by an airtight, preferably rubber-elastic membrane and further preferably rubber membrane. A rubber-elastic property of the membrane leads compared to a merely slight deformability that a certain shape and thus a certain chamber volume of the pumping chamber is favored, for example. A shape that is associated with a desired filling state of the pumping chamber before the arrival of a wave. In addition, such a rubber elastic property of the membrane may also provide advantages in a power plant having a plurality of interconnected fluid circulation units. With regard to the pumping chamber, it is further preferred for the membrane to be peripherally hermetically attached to a blade-like shell for the purpose of forming or bordering the interior of the chamber, the lateral edges of the shell extending in particular diagonally with respect to the waterline. It is considered expedient if the pumping chamber, at least in the state filled with fluid / air, forms a cushion-like surface which is exposed laterally or forwards and / or on the upper side for an external force attack by ocean waves. In particular, when the pumping chamber is filled, the membrane can have, in a longitudinal section, a convexly curved contour connecting the two ends of said diagonal. Such a design is for the best possible use of the dynamic energy of the rolling waves initially beneficial insofar as the rolling waves are braked to calm down (depending on dimensions over several meters). This means that not only is the use of the level difference caused by the waves taking place, but also the dynamic forces of the waves are used. The waves are faced with an obstacle on which they do not simply bounce off, but by displacing and compressing fluid or air, the wave energy is degraded within a short time (preferably a few seconds or fractions of a second). The aforementioned possible airtight attachment of the membrane to a blade-like shell is advantageous insofar as the shell provides a desired stability on the underside and laterally, so that the pumping chamber or membrane is prevented, in particular, from sideways deflection from diagonally arriving waves. For in this context appropriate development of the wave power plant, there is the possibility that the pumping chamber of the power plant, ie the same relative to other components, is articulated. In particular, the aforementioned blade-like shell may be hinged to a remaining housing or frame of the wave power plant, wherein the hinge axis is preferably approximately parallel to the wave peak in the expected or predominant attack direction of the waves and preferably above the waterline. While the pumping chamber is held in a state filled with gas (possibly supported by a separate floating chamber) even floating in an essentially horizontally oriented rest position, an effervescent shaft pushes the pumping chamber down about the hinge axis. By submerging the pumping chamber in the moment in which the braked wave at the same time results in a level increase, the water load acting on the diaphragm, ie the pump bellows, is additionally increased.

Regarding the inlet and / or outlet valves, there is the possibility that they are designed as automatic check valves. The inlet and / or outlet valves preferably have a large passage cross-section in order to provide a low flow resistance in the respective passage direction. Furthermore, there is the possibility that between the turbine and generator, a reduction gear is arranged. With regard to the fluid circulation is also preferred that within the at least one fluid circulation unit is a closed fluid circuit. This means that the fluid serving for the turbine drive is completely shielded from the outside environment, ie also from the water acting deformingly from the outside onto the pumping chamber. Nevertheless, it is possible to supplement leakage fluid from the closed system, which is expediently automatically possible by means of suitable sensors and thus regulated fluid supply devices. A wave power plant with a single, self-contained fluid circuit would be preferable for a decentralized power supply, even with a larger number of rather smaller systems in the 1-megawatt range into consideration. Theoretically, such a wave power plant can have a length, as allowed by the forces occurring for the float or pontoons or floating chambers occurring forces. On the other hand, the pump chamber or air bubble under the membrane should not exceed a length of ten to twelve meters. This is to prevent a diagonal incoming wave behind the membrane relieved again, so that the air can flow back directly. In addition, there is the possibility that a plurality of fluid circulating units are connected to each other, so that the respective backflow chambers communicate with each other and the respective pressure chambers with each other for the exchange of fluid, wherein the fluid circulation units can each have at least one or a total of a common turbine. In such, with respect to the rolling waves preferably lateral juxtaposition of individual systems to groups, the pressure chambers and the Rückströmkam numbers between the individual elements are open, so that the energy can be obtained if desired with only one unit (turbine, generator and control). One Ideal state is achieved when the wavefront impinges on the wave power plant at an angle, so that one wave constantly overflows the system, allowing for continuous, uniform operation due to the compression of air and the gradual activation of the various pumping chambers. In connected systems in which the entire air mass is connected, all the pumping chambers work into the common pressure chambers, and the return air flows back to those pumping chambers in which there is just the slightest resistance. To protect against storms and extremely high waves may also facilities for at least partial flooding of floating chambers can be present, which can lower the whole wave power plant to reduce the resistance. The pressure chambers, which may themselves have the meaning of floating chambers, can be included in the flooding, whereupon they are to be filled with the fluid, for example. Air for later lifting of the system and for further energy generation. With the described wave power plant according to the invention, an estimated continuous power of one megawatt is to be expected based on a length of one hundred meters with a swell of about one meter in height. The system is self-contained, ie all elements are integrated in it. Only the transfer of the generated energy, for example, to the mainland requires a connection.

With regard to the already mentioned possibility to provide one or more blade-like shells for receiving pumping chambers at a marine shaft power plant, a preferred development is seen in that one or more pillow-like pumping chambers lie side by side in a blade-like shell, wherein the shell has guide walls at its side edges to the side Boundary and / or installation or support of egg NEN or more pumping chambers. It is preferably provided that the guide walls have an overall substantially rectangular contour, with one or more corners may also be rounded. It is further preferred that the flexible wall (membrane) is fastened airtight to the guide walls along connecting lines sloping diagonally to the waterline towards the front side of the wave power plant. A circumferentially airtight connection is achieved by, for example, such an attachment is also provided on the front edge of the blade bottom and on the upper edge of the blade rear wall. The diagonal connection to the baffles has the advantage that the flexible wall can deform as required both convex (inflated) and concave (empty pumped). Alternatively, a pumping chambers structurally, for example, be virtually completely formed of an airtight, especially rubber-elastic, membrane, wherein connections to the power plant having at least one inlet and outlet valve are present and the connections possibly take over in addition to the laterally supporting baffles also a certain holding function can. In addition, depending on requirements, further holding means may be provided between the pumping chamber and the blade. In a further variant, the membrane can be attached airtight to the blade bottom and back and thus form with the wall of the pumping chamber, which then also in the lateral direction a plant or support against the baffles is possible. The baffles can in a longitudinal cross-section or profile of the wave power plant to the front and / or up, ie in the expected main direction of attack of the waves for lateral stabilization of the pumping chamber over the contour in the filled state, possibly even partially survive. An expedient development can also be that the fluid circulation unit has a fan which is to be connected to the environment by means of, for example, a pneumatic valve and via which for selectively blowing air from the environment or for blowing air into the environment from the otherwise closed Fluid circulation unit is used. The blower can be arranged, for example, in the backflow chamber, and also the injection or blowing out of air can preferably take place in or out of the return flow chamber. The fan makes it possible to adjust the air pressure and the circulating air volume in the system according to wave, ie operating conditions, so that to achieve a favorable mode of operation each wave cycle can almost completely displace the air from the pumping chamber. Thus, for example, with a change in the swell and resulting partial load, the amount of air in the system can be reduced. According to a further aspect, there is the possibility that means for opening delay of the inlet valve are provided from the Rückström- to the pumping chamber. As a result, during the pumping process of, for example, about 3 seconds, the inlet valve serving as a return flap can not open at first, which causes a rise in pressure in the return flow chamber and thus a desired refraction of the energy peak. This means that the system automatically strives for a smoothing of the energy curve. There is the possibility that the said means are adapted to the fact that the inlet valve from the Rückström- to the pumping chamber does not open during the short pumping process when emptying the pumping chamber, but only when the shaft flows off automatically by the overpressure formed in the return flow chamber. An additional smoothing of the energy curve is also possible with a control system provided at the turbine inlet. Depending on the differential pressure between the pressure chamber and the return flow chamber, a largely uniform operation would also be achievable. The preferably generated by the power generated in the power station with driven blower component a power control, by means of which the efficiency of the power plant can be optimized depending on the respective operating conditions.

for Achieving the highest level of operational safety even in extreme situations, for example, in case of sudden onset of very high waves, various expedient developments are possible. The Fluid circulation unit can be one or more safety systems preferably automatically and / or pneumatically operable, Flaps for temporary Have interruption of the fluid circulation, wherein such flaps preferably in the range of inlet and / or outlet valves and / or are provided in the inlet region of the turbine. Such, for example Shutters formed from steel can, for example, in case of sudden extremely strong swell to protect against damage to the wave power plant getting closed. On the other hand, said steel flaps are due their mass and powers of action comparatively and lethargic, so that they are preferably complementary to the intake and exhaust valves, the while of the regular Operation for the wished Fluid circulation in the cycle of the shafts opened and closed again will understand. Alternative would be but conceivable, the closing flaps themselves as said or exhaust valves, which in normal operation automatically open and close in the cycle of the waves and which are to be closed under extreme conditions until their decay. To make the intake and exhaust valves faster and more efficient more flexible in particular than the mentioned steel flaps react can, there is a possibility that the inlet and outlet valves each designed a perforated plate-like flow region and a membrane loosely fitting in the valve blocking direction, preferably a rubber curtain. In addition, then in the field of inputs and / or Exhaust valves and / or separate in the inlet area of the turbine Closing flaps are arranged. Another, the security improving measure may be that in the lower part of the pumping chamber, a water detecting sensor is arranged, which depends on the sensor signal For example, optical and / or acoustic signal triggers and / or in conjunction with suitable control and drive means (eg. Pressure cylinder, servomotors or the like) closes the shutters. So, if it's through a damage the flexible pump chamber wall (membrane) or its mounting area water enters the pumping chamber, the damage occurs early detected and the operation may be interrupted. Alternatively or In combination, a preferably radio-remote-controlled control can be provided be dependent from their input signal, such as one transmitted from the mainland Radio input signal, for safety, the blowing out of air from the Fluid circulating unit by means of the described blower and / or the closing said closure flaps and / or at least partially Flooding the pressure chamber causes. By lowering the system overpressure becomes the attack surface decreases and so the waves are preferably deflected across the system. By the Flooding of the pressure chamber (related to 10 meters length with eg. Up to 200 tons) the draft can be considerable to be enlarged so that the system only slightly, for example, about 2 feet above the Waterline protrudes. Even a complete immersion when spilling over a so-called giant wave could then do no damage to the system. The pressure chamber can have appropriate bulkheads to slosh around the ballast water to prevent, and to later Draining the ballast water can Pumps or the like may be provided. Also, the power plant can be about with regard to on-site technical equipment inside Maintenance work to get started (for example, from a boat) on a have a watertight lock in the upper part of its structure.

For anchoring and tidal adaptation, it can be provided that the power plant has a tide compensation device with at least one deflection roller, which can be lowered relative to the power station against a force, in particular against the force of a hydraulic element, such as a hydraulic piston, and which can be anchored by a spring that can be anchored at both ends. anchored especially on the seabed, tether, chain or the like is at least partially entwined. The force exerted by the tide compensation device on the deflection roller (for example, the pressure acting in a hydraulic cylinder) can be adjusted by a person skilled in the art so that a float on the system on the water surface is prevented, ie a desired draft is maintained. If the force / pressure becomes lower due to lowering of the deflection roller due to rising tides or due to decreasing tide due to a reverse displacement of the deflection roller, a readjustment to the predetermined value of the force or pressure can take place by means of a control of the tide compensation device done to maintain the desired draft. Even a large tide of, for example, about 10 meters could be compensated so easily. An adaptation or adjustment of the tide compensation device is also preferred so that the readjustment takes place with an appropriate delay. For example, the provided with the pumping chamber side of the wave power plant when emerging a wave can dive (eg. Up to 1 meter depth), without such a rhythmic movement triggers a readjustment in response. A device constructed as above may be used according to A preferred development also serve to align the wave power plant relative to the wavefront. For this purpose, there is the possibility that the tide compensation device has at least one deflection wheel, which is coupled to a preferably hydraulic rotary drive and at least partially looped around by the tether or the holding chain, and that preferably such a device is provided on both longitudinal sides of the power plant. A rotation and thus alignment of the entire power plant is possible in that only the adjusting wheel on one of the two sides of the power plant by means of its drive with entrainment of the tether or the holding chain adjusted by a certain angle or the adjusting wheels on both sides differently, for example. Conversely, twisted be changed, whereby the aspect ratio of leading to the anchorages on the ground rope or chain sections. Alternatively, a tide compensation device may be provided, which has at least one articulated arm, which is hinged at one end to the power plant and at the other end hinged to an anchorage, in particular on an anchoring held on a seabed or shore, attachable. Such a simple tide balancing device can be advantageous if the risk of floating of the power plant does not exist or is to be avoided by other means (eg, constructive or by the possibility of flooding). An expedient development of such a tide compensation device may consist in that it has two articulated arms, one end of which is pivotally connected adjacent to each other at a peripheral center region of the marine wave power plant and of which the other end each articulated to each one of two anchored in particular at the seabed anchors is fastened. In addition, it is preferred that at the power plant on both sides of the connection of the articulated arms per a deflection roller is arranged, that both pulleys are circulated together by one with one end attachable to each base anchor tether or a holding chain and that at least one of the pulleys with a rotary drive, in particular with a hydraulic and / or remote-controlled rotary drive is provided. By demand twisting of at least one of the two pulleys with entrainment of the rope or the chain, it is possible to align the system on the wavefront about a vertical axis of rotation as possible.

According to one Another aspect of the invention is the possibility that the power plant a buoyant one Having outer housing, which at least one cylinder chamber, preferably two parallel interconnected cylinder chambers, wherein the blade-like Shell for the pump chamber to one of the cylinder chambers either articulated or is rigidly mounted so that a connecting line of the blade side edges parallel to the longitudinal axis the cylinder chambers extends. The cylinder chambers have at least one in a substantially cylindrical shape, according to the expected high and changing internal pressure on the cylinder jacket on stiffeners can be omitted and as end faces either not arched or domed Floors usable are. Such a shape offers except against high internal pressures also across from high external load, For example, by so-called. Giant waves, high resistance. In addition comes as Advantage that such tubular Constructions are inexpensive to produce and, by waiving on stiffeners, have a low weight. This means, that a particularly high and thus favorable ratio of to be generated power per unit weight or based on the Achieve the weight of the power plant. Preference is further, that the pressure chamber in the first, the pumping chamber adjacent Cylinder chamber is located and that the turbine in the second Cylinder chamber is located, in particular, the diameter ratio of the first to the second cylinder chamber is greater than the value 1 and more preferably about 1.5.

In a further preferred embodiment, the marine wave power plant according to the invention may be equipped with a tide compensation device having at least two, preferably axially spaced, fixedly attached to the marine shaft power pulleys, each a pulley by a rope, a chain or the like is circulated, the rope or the chain is fastened to one end in each case at an anchoring lying in particular on the seabed and attached to a respective weight at the other end and wherein the length of the rope or the chain is dimensioned so that the weights under tension of the rope or hang the chain in the water. This offers, in addition to a simple structure, the advantage that always the same train determined by the weights acts downward. Also, the dynamic movements of the system, for example, by descending the flood cycle or raking a wave are compensated without delay. Also for tidal compensation no control effort is required because this compensation is automatic. There is the possibility that at least one of the pulleys of Tidenausgleichseinrichtung with a blockingable rotary drive, preferably with an elec tric or hydraulic rotary drive is coupled and that on two opposite sides of the power plant, in particular on both opposite longitudinal sides (with respect to the main attack direction of the waves) , each tide compensation device is provided so that (as explained above) by a rotational movement, an alignment of the entire system on the wavefront is possible. In Tidenausgleichseinrichtungen, which are provided for this purpose with a rotary driven pulley or with a serving adjusting wheel, it is even conceivable to integrate a device for automated alignment on the wavefront or make the alignment from the mainland via remote control.

The Invention will be described below with reference to the attached figures, in which preferred embodiments of the power plant according to the invention are reproduced, closer described. It shows:

1 in a longitudinal section, the power plant according to the invention in a first preferred embodiment as a marine wave power plant, in a rest position;

2 the wave power plant after 1 in a working position;

3 the wave power plant after the 1 and 2 , in another operating position;

4 the wave power plant after the 1 to 3 in a still further operational position;

5 in a longitudinal view of the power plant according to the invention in a second preferred embodiment as a marine wave power plant, in a rest position;

6 the wave power plant after 5 in a working position;

7 in a schematic representation of a sectional view taken along section line VII-VII 5 ;

8th schematically a sectional view taken along section line VIII-VIII 6 ;

9 a sectional view taken along section line IX-IX 7 ;

10 a sectional view along section line X-X after 8th ;

11 schematically a plan view of another preferred marine shaft power plant according to the invention, in which a plurality of fluid circulation units are interconnected;

12 schematically a longitudinal section of a marine shaft power plant according to the invention according to another preferred embodiment;

13 a cross section along line XIII-XIII after 12 ;

14 schematically a longitudinal view of a marine wave power plant according to the invention according to another preferred embodiment;

15 schematically a longitudinal view of a marine shaft power plant according to the invention according to a still further preferred embodiment;

16 one opposite 15 reduced plan view in the direction XVI;

17 in the 16 embodiment shown, in contrast, inclined orientation;

18 schematically a longitudinal section through an inventive marine wave power plant according to yet another preferred embodiment along the section line XVIII-XVIII according to 19 ;

19 a section along the section line XIX-XIX after 18 ;

20 a section along the section line XX-XX after 18 ;

21 to 23 different operating states of the in the 18 to 20 represented power plant within a shaft cycle and

24 schematically in a longitudinal view of an inventive marine shaft power plant according to yet another preferred embodiment.

1 shows in a longitudinal section the power plant according to the invention in a first preferred embodiment as a marine wave power plant 1 which longitudinal section gives the essential components and function. The wave power plant 1 Floats as a pontoon-like structure in the water 2 , where a coastal area of a sea is shown in detail. The wave power plant 1 serves to generate electrical energy by utilizing the energy of sea waves, which can be transported to the mainland, an island or the like, for example, by means of lines (not shown in the drawings). In the example chosen, the wave power plant 1 a turbine 3 on, which for driving a generator generating electrical energy 4 serves. The turbine 3 is integrated into a fluid circulation unit, which is used to drive the turbine 3 a fluid, in the chosen example air, under the influence of sea waves in repeated or permanent order is running. As described below, the air, ie, the working fluid for driving the turbine, is from the water 2 shielded, so that a closed circulation of the working fluid is realized. Part of the fluid circulation unit is a pumping chamber 5 whose chamber volume is flexible for receiving the air in a time-varying amount. The flexibility is based on the fact that the pumping chamber 5 through a flexible wall 6 is bound, the expected attack direction of sea waves - in the direction of the 1 from the right - facing. In the example shown, it is the flexible wall 6 around a membrane made of rubber-elastic material, which is circumferentially airtight connected to an otherwise rigid boundary. In the example chosen are of the rigid borders 7 . 8th outgoing, running as sidewalls cheeks with diagonal running to the waterline edges. The flexible wall 6 is circumferentially close to these upper diagonal side edges, and at the perpendicular to the plane in 1 running leading edge of the rigid boundary 7 and attached to a connecting the upper ends of the diagonal side edges housing edge, so that in the cross section shown above the diagonal addition, a virtually semi-elastic deformable air cushion arises. The rubber membrane acts as a separation between air (working fluid) and water. Instead of such a partial immediate boundary of the pumping chamber 5 By rigid boundaries or lateral cheeks, the pumping chamber can also be bordered substantially in the air-cushion-like manner by the membrane and the membrane below and on the back, for example, at the edges 7 . 8th be attached. The pumping chamber 5 is by means of an exhaust valve 9 with a likewise of working fluid, ie in the example of air, filled pressure chamber 10 in connection. The only schematically illustrated exhaust valve 9 only serves to exhaust air from the pumping chamber 5 in the pressure chamber 10 and automatically opens from a closed position to a corresponding open position when the pressure in the pumping chamber 5 rises so far by a sea wave impinging thereon that there the pressure of the pressure chamber 10 is exceeded. The outlet valve 9 is designed so that in reverse pressure conditions, ie when the pressure in the pressure chamber 10 greater than the pressure in the pumping chamber 5 is, no air from the pressure chamber 10 into the pumping chamber 5 can flow. This means that, as explained in more detail with reference to the following figures, chamber volume of the pumping chamber 5 according to flexible wall 6 by the action of sea waves with displacement of air from the pump chamber 5 through the outlet valve 9 in the pressure chamber 10 is changeable. The pressure chamber 10 is to the fluid inlet of the turbine 3 connected while the fluid outlet of the turbine 3 in conjunction with a return flow chamber 11 is, which in the example shown at the same time for installation of the generator 4 serves. The return flow chamber 11 in turn is by means of an inlet valve 12 with the pumping chamber 5 in connection. The inlet valve 12 serves to remove air from the return flow chamber 11 into the pumping chamber 5 involved. It opens automatically when the pressure in the return flow chamber 11 the pressure of the pumping chamber 5 exceeds and closes automatically when this condition is ended. In reverse pressure conditions, ie when the pressure in the pumping chamber 5 the pressure in the return flow chamber 11 According to the design of the intake valve 12 as an automatic check valve, an air flow from the pumping chamber 5 in the return flow chamber 11 prevented. The representation in 1 shows a rest position in which the system is, for example, shortly after start-up or without the action of waves. For commissioning, the system was inflated so to speak first, so that even under the flexible wall 6 , ie membrane, airspace has been filled. In order to fill the chamber volume under the diaphragm bulging, only a small pressure is required over, for example, in the value range of about two to three millibars, on the other hand may deviate from this. Since the described fluid circulation unit is completed, there is always circulation of the same air in it. Therefore, only a loss of air must be compensated by possible leakage, including the in 1 shown wave power plant known in the art, therefore, not shown in the figures has facilities. In the described preferred embodiment, the wave power plant 1 characterized independently floatable, that with the working fluid, that is filled with air pressure chamber 10 and backflow chamber 11 sufficiently buoyancy as a swimming chamber. In the longitudinal direction is the pressure chamber 10 to below the pumping chamber 5 rejuvenated continued, so there even with deflated pressure chamber 5 (see. 4 ) there is enough buoyancy. In particular, the pumping chamber can 5 under-engaging section of the pressure chamber 10 just be sized so that when attacking a sea wave when the air flows out of the pumping chamber 5 in the pressure chamber 10 in a just desired extent to a defined drop in the pumping chamber 5 , ie, to a certain inclination of the wave power plant 1 comes, causing the attack surface of the pumping chamber 5 for the further attack of the wave can be increased. On the other hand, in an attack of ocean waves (cf. 2 to 4 ) a floating up of the wave power plant 1 and to prevent unwanted drift from the intended location, with reference to the 1 to 4 described preferred embodiment anchoring means 13 for anchoring the wave power plant 1 on the ground 14 on. The example chosen is ropes 15 . each one end to the wave power plant 1 and their other end to one on the ground 14 resting anchor 16 is attached. The in 1 illustrated levels of water 2 , in which there is no attack of a wave temporarily, corresponds to the high water level (flood), so that at low tide (low tide) automatic compensation by way of sagging the ropes 15 is possible. If necessary, (not shown in the drawing) aids may be present to the ropes 15 to keep it taut even at low tide. This in 1 shown preferred wave power plant 1 Floats as a pontoon-like structure in the water, but is loaded so that its main top edge is only slightly above the waterline. The pontoon is topped by a roof section and the formed space is through a curtain wall 18 in the pressure chamber 10 and the backflow chamber 11 (Circulating air space) divided. The pumping chamber 5 is formed by a hermetically connected to the pontoon membrane of rubber-elastic material. The pillow-shaped air space in the filled state is with the two chambers in the pontoon through the two flaps or valves 9 . 12 connected. In the wall between the pressure chamber 10 and the return flow chamber 11 is the turbine 3 installed, via a reduction gearbox 19 the generator 4 drives. With regard to the actual size ratios, there is the possibility that the air volume in the pumping chamber per meter of system length is about fifteen to twenty-five, preferably about nineteen cubic meters, while in relation to the same system length the total air volume in the pressure chamber is somewhat larger, for example in the region of twenty to thirty and preferably about twenty-five cubic meters. In this context, for example, the total length of the system may be about fifteen to twenty, preferably about seventeen meters, with the pumping chamber 5 About half of this length can extend and the height of the wave power plant 1 preferably measures about one quarter of the total length. However, depending on the requirements of a wave power plant according to the invention also considerable deviations from the aforementioned dimensions, ratios and volumes may exist.

The operation of the too 1 described wave power plant 1 will continue with reference to the 2 to 4 described. A rolling wave 20 (see. 2 ) rolls over the under the flexible wall 6 or rubber membrane trapped air bubble, causing air from the pumping chamber 5 is displaced by reducing the chamber volume and the large-area exhaust valve 9 (Alternatively, several such valves may be provided) in the pressure chamber 10 arrives. The resistance to the effervescent wave increases progressively, the more the pressure in the pressure chamber 10 increases. Ideally, the wave has 20 their energy dissipates when all the air in the pressure chamber 10 has been displaced. This process often takes only a few seconds or fractions thereof. According to the height of the shaft can be in the pressure chamber 10 build a pressure of, for example, about one hundred to three hundred millibars (depending on the design and conditions of use also different pressures are possible). The automatic exhaust valve 9 prevents backflow of air, ie from the pressure chamber 10 This can only be done through the turbine 3 in the serving for relief return flow chamber 11 and over the inlet valve 12 into the airspace of the pumping chamber 5 flow back. Ideally, this cycle is until the next wave approaches 20 completed, with further waves correspondingly cause further cycles or revolutions of the air. There is always the same air in circulation, which is alternately compressed and relaxed. The referring to the 1 to 4 described preferred embodiment of the wave power plant 2 has only a single circulation unit explained above. For the most even operation possible is the turbine 3 with an adjustable tail unit 17 provided with which the turbine power on the cadence of the waves 20 can be coordinated.

In 2 For example, with respect to an air cycle, an operating condition is shown in which the pressure in the pumping chamber 5 greater than the pressure in the pressure chamber 10 is, so that the exhaust valve 9 for the passage of air in its indicated by the arrow passage direction is in the open position. In addition, the pressure in the pumping chamber 5 larger than in the return flow chamber 11 so that the inlet valve 12 is held in its closed position against a stop. As a result of large-area design, the outlet valve is provided 9 (as well as the inlet valve 12 ) has only low flow resistance, so that the air from the pumping chamber 5 through the wave 20 easy to displace. When the pressure in the pressure chamber 10 larger than in the return flow chamber 11 has become the drive of the turbine 3 and the generator 4 for power generation. 3 shows another operating state in which the shaft 20 the pumping chamber 5 has already pressed further, the valve positions are still the same as in 2 remained. 4 shows a still further operating state, in which practically all the air from the pumping chamber 5 in the pressure chamber 11 displaced and the wave 20 has subsided. The pressure in the pressure chamber 11 is now larger than the one in the pumping chamber 5 why the exhaust valve 9 is held against a stop in its closed position. Due to the continuous operation of the turbine 3 is the pressure in the return flow chamber 11 so far increased that it is greater than the pressure in the pumping chamber 5 has become. Accordingly, the inlet valve is located 12 in its open position, leaving air in its direction indicated by the arrow passage direction from the return flow chamber 11 into the pumping chamber 5 can flow back. This goes so far, until finally, depending on the period until the next wave of in 1 shown state is reset and the cycle can run again.

The 5 to 10 show a second preferred embodiment of the marine wave power plant according to the invention 1 , For components that function in their constituent parts in the 1 to 4 correspond to shown power plant, identical reference numerals are given. Also the functioning of the wave power plant 1 according to 5 to 10 agrees in principle with the function of the 1 to 4 The power contained in the swell is used indirectly for displacing and compressing air as a working fluid to a turbine 3 with generator connected in it 4 used to generate electrical energy. Structurally, there are differences in that in the in the 5 to 10 shown wave power plant 1 the pressure chamber 10 and backflow chamber 11 have a different structure from the preceding figures, which consists of the 5 to 10 overall becomes clear. A pontoon-like case 21 has two in the example in cross-section octagonal housing tubes 22 which may, for example, be welded constructions. Compared with an example. Square shape is achieved by the octagonal cross-section, in particular with respect to the internal pressure occurring (for example, in the order of about four hundred millibars) greater stability. Also conceivable would be the housing tubes 22 instead of an octagonal cross-section, for example, with a round cross-section. Between the housing tubes 22 is a cross-sectionally quadrangular, here especially square housing intermediate part 23 arranged. This borders on the upper side to an overflow channel 24 whose cross-section is upwards, to the octagonal contour of the housing tubes 22 clinging, trapezoidal widening, leaving a straight roofline 25 results. The internal structure of the housing 21 with the special chamber of the pressure chamber 10 and backflow chamber 11 is described below. To show the 5 . 6 in a simplified representation in longitudinal view of two different operating states, the 7 . 8th give - in symbolic representation - two after the 5 and 6 at different altitude through the power plant 1 running cuts again, and the 9 . 10 show longitudinal sections through the system with also different cut according to 7 . 8th , 7 shows that the pumping chamber 5 in the example chosen by means of four exhaust valves 9 (symbolic representation as check valves) to the outlet of working fluid, in the selected example air, in conjunction with a pressure chamber 10 stands. This extends as inside the housing 21 through the open breakthroughs 26 and the reference numeral 10 clarified, in this sectional plane through both housing tubes 22 as well as by intermediate edge regions of the housing intermediate part 23 , The annulus of the pressure chamber formed in this way 10 encloses with its inner wall 27 a lower portion of the return flow chamber 11 in which is the turbine 3 and the generator 4 (integral, symbolic representation) are located. A thus possible guidance of the attack of a wave from the four exhaust valves 9 from the pumping chamber 5 in the case 21 incoming air is indicated by thin lines with arrows. It can be seen that in the housing 21 incoming air in the entire annulus of the pressure chamber 10 distribute it and only through one in the inner wall 27 the annulus provided inlet 28 through the turbine 3 in the return flow chamber 11 can get. The outflow of air from the pumping chamber 5 through exhaust valves 9 and the distribution of air in the pumping chamber 10 is also in 9 indicated by an arrow line, in which case the exhaust valve 9 (like the inlet valve 12 in 10 ) deviating from those in 7 . 8th selected symbols merely exemplified physically simplified as a rotary flap with one-sided stop is shown. The respective possible open position is shown in solid line, the closed position is shown in dashed lines. It is noted that how 5 also the 7 and 9 in terms of contour and position of the pumping chamber 5 show a rest position, yet in the 7 and 9 by arrows and the opened exhaust valve 9 a possible with the impact of a wave air movement is illustrated with. The according to 7 through the turbine 3 in the lower area of the return flow chamber 11 reached air flows up here and through a symbolically represented, open passage 29 in the cross-section trapezoidal overflow 24 , from there through an also open passage 30 and a subsequent channel 31 to the inlet valve 12 (see. 8th . 10 ). The overflow channel 24 and the channel 31 thus form as it were components of the return flow chamber 11 , The channel 31 is below and to the side by a partition wall 32 from the pressure chamber 10 demarcated. Regarding the open passages 26 . 29 and 30 is noted that these in the 7 to 10 merely symbolically denote fluid passage openings inside the housing, ie that instead of local openings, the respective wall section in the corresponding sectional plane can also be omitted altogether. Next is the 7 . 8th removable, that the two housing tubes 22 and the intermediate housing part 23 at both ends, ie in the direction of these figures above and below, by means of a respective end wall 33 are closed. On both end walls 33 are passages 34 . 35 prepared in the respective representations are still closed. After opening, the passages can 34 . 35 serve to several of the in the 5 to 10 connect systems shown for mutual air exchange (see. 11 ). These are the passages 34 the pressure chamber 10 merely exemplified associated with the rear section, while the passages 35 frontally of the overflow channel 24 lie. As the 8th and 9 show, between that of the inner wall 27 edged part of the return flow chamber 11 and the overflow channel 24 an unimpeded exchange of working fluid (air) takes place, allowing the air from the turbine 3 also to the (still closed) passages 35 can get. It also becomes clear that the pumping chamber 5 and the pressure chamber 10 in the example by means of a total of four parallel, each pair adjacent exhaust valves 9 is in fluid passage connection, while in the example the pumping chamber 5 with the return flow chamber 11 only by means of a single inlet valve 12 , ie, by means of an overall smaller passage cross-section, is in fluid passage connection. By the backflow chamber 11 with turbine 3 and generator 4 between two sections of the pressure chamber interconnected in the example chosen 10 a uniform distribution of the loads is achieved. Specifically, the horizontal and vertical forces exerted by the pump chamber 5 A good stability of the housing 21 enclosed part of the wave power plant 1 (so-called main part) achieved.

In the in the 5 to 10 shown wave power plant 1 is further provided that the pumping chamber 5 from a rigid shovel-like shell 36 together with a hermetically connected flexible wall 6 is enclosed by a rubber-elastic membrane. The shell 36 has laterally stabilizing cheeks 37 on (in 6 the look simplified the front cheek 37 penetrates). These fall off from a back wall 38 along a straight top edge 39 obliquely forwards, ie against the main attack direction of sea waves, from. The cheeks 37 are at their top edge 39 each provided with a (not shown) flange to which the flexible wall (membrane) is sealingly attached. Furthermore, the membrane is transverse, ie perpendicular to the plane, extending at the upper edge region of the rear wall 38 (ie the rear rigid boundary 7 ) and along the front, ie the waves facing edge of the blade bottom (horizontal rigid boundary 8th ) gas-tight. In the upper area are to the back wall 38 on both sides thighs 40 scheduled for the inclusion of joints 41 whose second articulated arm on the housing 21 attached thighs 42 form. This is the pumping chamber 5 on the aforementioned main part of the wave power plant 1 hinged, being attached to the housing 21 attacks 43 , preferably of damping material, for limiting the relative pivoting movement of the pumping chamber 5 around the joint 41 are provided. For unimpeded passage of the working fluid, ie the air, between the pumping chamber 5 and in the case 21 lying pressure chamber 10 and the channel 31 are flexible, ie the possible pivoting compensating bellows 44 intended. 5 shows the wave power plant 1 at rest, in the inflated pumping chamber 5 is self-buoyant and lies in practically straight extension of the main body. Deviating shows 6 an operating state in which a shaft 20 the proportionately empty pump chamber 5 about the hinge axis obliquely down against the stop 43 pushes, causing the attack resistance of the shaft 20 is increased again. From the front edge of the lower boundary 8th the Bowl 36 stands in direction extension of the upper edges 39 a lip 45 through which the in 6 shown pivoting position when attacking a shaft 20 and thereby promoting the use of the energy contained in the wave. In the 5 to 10 No anchoring means and no lines for the removal of generated energy are shown, but these can be used as required (cf. 1 to 4 ). With regard to the size ratios, for example, there is the possibility that the length of the housing 21 11 meters and the length of the pumping chamber is about 8 meters, whereby the pumping chamber can have a height of about 5 meters at a water penetration depth (at rest) of about 0.5 meters. The ever working stroke out of the pumping chamber 5 displaced air amount may, based on an element of 10 meters in length, for example, be about 200 cubic meters. In this context, there is the possibility that the pressure chamber, based on the same system length, has a total volume of about 300 cubic meters, so that it is to be expected in it with a maximum overpressure of about 400 millibars. Instead of a pressure chamber connected as described 10 can also, for example, two separate pressure chambers practically in parallel between the pumping chamber 5 and the turbine 3 be provided. The bellows 44 may preferably have a diameter of about one meter. Of course, in the described wave power plant 1 Considerable deviations from the above values can be realized.

11 shows in a plan view only schematically a further preferred embodiment of a marine wave power plant 1 according to the invention. Here are exemplary of the five with respect to the 5 to 10 described systems or fluid circulation units connected laterally to form an overall system. The passages 34 . 35 are each open so that the respective Rückströmkammern 11 with each other and the respective pressure chambers 10 communicate with each other for mutual exchange of air. In the example chosen, each of the five units has a turbine 3 with generator 4 although this is not absolutely necessary due to the possible air exchange between the units. The valves 9 . 12 are in 11 simplified not shown. If, for example, the width per unit is ten meters, this results in a total width of the wave power plant of fifty meters, on which, based on suitable waves, an energy production of about 500 kilowatts can be expected. Deviating from the representation chosen in the example, there would also be the possibility that in such a combination the part with the pressure vessels and the return flow chamber is a continuous stable unit. The chambers can be completely open in the longitudinal direction. There is also the possibility that in such a unit there is only one turbine, which is designed so that its power is multiplied by the number of pumping units in comparison to a system with only one pumping unit. For example, if a pump unit provides 100 kilowatts of power, a five pump unit system could preferably be equipped with a 500 kilowatt turbine. If at least one compensation channel is provided between the pressure chambers, this could be, for example, in the middle and therefore feed a likewise centrally arranged turbine. However, the use of more than one turbine in a combined system could be considered, for example, if, for example, two smaller, quasi-normalized units were less expensive than one large unit. On the main body of the aforementioned continuous, stable unit can be attached to the shaft side, the movable pumping units. Since, ideally, the waves impinge somewhat offset on the pump units, results in a largely continuous air flow, especially in connection with the large common air storage volume in the pressure chambers.

12 schematically shows a longitudinal section of an inventive wave power plant 1 according to a further preferred embodiment. Therein (as well as in the following figures), despite recognizable constructive deviations from the preceding embodiments, the same reference numerals have been chosen for simplification for corresponding features. That in the water 2 floating wave power plant 1 has a turbine 3 , a generating generator for generating electricity 4 , a pumping chamber 5 with a flexible wall 6 in a shovel-like bowl 36 , a pressure chamber 10 , a return flow chamber 11 , four exhaust valves 9 for the outlet of air from the pumping chamber 5 in the pressure chamber 10 and a (in 12 covered) inlet valve 12 for the admission of air from the return flow chamber 11 into the pumping chamber 5 auf, wherein the principle of operation of the thus formed fluid circulation unit (concerning the 14 to 24 ) is referred to the preceding description. At the in 12 shown embodiment is provided that the blade-like shell 36 , on both sides by means of a ribbing 46 (Visible is on average only the rear rib in the direction of view 46 ) rigidly on the housing housing the other components 21 is attached. This means that in this embodiment, between the pumping chamber 5 and the housing 21 there is no flexibility. Further different from the in 1 variant shown is also provided that the pressure chamber 10 not to under the pumping chamber 5 reaches and the lower edge of the pumping chamber 5 not above, but in the chosen example about 40 cm below the waterline. Both sides of the pumping chamber 5 are as a side part of the shell 36 or shovel baffles 47 attached, which is the blade 36 similar to those to the 5 to 10 described cheeks 37 limit laterally, but, as in the longitudinal section of 12 by looking in the direction of the rear baffle 47 shown over the contour of the inflated pumping chamber 5 in the front, upper range, ie in the range of the preferred wave attack survive. In the example, the flexible wall 6 peripherally airtight with the front edge of the floor 48 , with the top edge of the back wall 49 and in between with the baffles 47 along the diagonally connecting lines 74 connected, with 50 the position of the flexible membrane with filled pumping chamber and with 50 ' the position is designated after the displacement of the air. By connecting the flexible wall 6 At the rigid border laterally along diagonals with respect to the waterline is formed, as in the previous embodiments, for the flexible wall the possibility, as shown, both convex (inflated) and concave (empty pumped) to deform. In the lateral direction, ie transverse to the in 12 From the right expected wave attack direction, the pumping chamber is supported 5 above the connecting lines 74 against the baffles 47 from. In 12 lies within the cutting plane an exhaust valve 9 out of a total of four (cf. 13 ) provided exhaust valves 9 , in the forward direction (see the arrow) of the pumping chamber 5 in the pressure chamber 10 points, ie the reverse direction of the pressure chamber 10 to the pumping chamber 5 has. Through an outlet opening of the pressure chamber 10 the compressed air passes through the turbine 3 in the return flow chamber 11 , This extends in the rear part of the power plant 1 in which also the generator 4 mounted on a false floor. With the rear room or the backflow chamber 11 connected is a channel 31 , which forms part of the backflow chamber 11 as a closed shaft through the pressure chamber 10 up to the (in 12 in the direction behind the valves 9 lying) inlet valve 12 the pumping chamber 5 extends. In 12 is with the reference numeral 51 indicated that the pressure chamber 10 by means not shown in the drawing, for a person skilled in the art flooding can flood to the marked height to lower the power plant, for example, in a storm at a certain level, on which there is a lower risk of damage. At the housing cover of the return flow chamber 11 is a fan 52 mounted for selectively blowing air from the environment in the return flow chamber or blowing air from the return flow into the environment. For this purpose, a line 53 between blowers 52 and environment by means of a rotary valve 54 optionally open or closed. To power the blower, the generator can 4 generated energy can be used. In the in the 12 . 13 shown power plant, the dimensions or cross sections are exemplary, ie not necessary, chosen so that, based on 10 meters system length, ie length perpendicular to the plane of 12 , the return flow chamber a volume of about 150 m ³ , the pumping chamber inflated a volume of about 200 m ³ and the pressure chamber has a content of about 350 m ³ . This means that the pumping chamber is only slightly larger than the return flow chamber, the pressure chamber, however, in contrast, each about twice as large, with larger sizes of the said sizes and proportions are quite possible.

14 shows a schematic longitudinal view of an inventive wave power plant 1 according to a further preferred embodiment, which in its internal structure and the function of referring to the 12 and 13 corresponds to the described design. The special feature is that the power plant is anchored to the ground 14 and to compensate for the tide, ie to maintain the water penetration depth, with a tide compensation device 55 Is provided. This has one on the housing 21 outside hydraulically attached to the waterline obliquely 56 with piston guided in it 57 on, at the end of a pulley 58 is held rotatably. Adjacent are approximately in imaginary extension of the cylinder axis on the housing 21 on the outside one each with a rotary drive (not shown) connected pulley, which here also as adjusting 59 is designated, and another deflection roller 60 appropriate. In the hydraulic cylinder 56 becomes the piston 57 pressurized so that the piston tries to retract into the cylinder. On the other hand, the pulleys 58 . 59 and 60 from a guy 15 , which with its two ends on the underground 14 is anchored so rotate around that in the tensioned state shown on the pulley 58 that is against the hydraulic power relative to the power plant 1 slidably downwards, ie lowerable, is, a counterforce acts. The hydraulic cylinder 56 is constantly subjected to such a predetermined hydraulic pressure that the power plant is prevented in the resulting equilibrium of the forces floating on the water surface, that is with a desired draft in the water. As the tide increases, the pressure in the cylinder increases due to some outward displacement of the piston 57 out of the cylinder 56 initially larger (or initially lower when the tide drops), whereupon the selected predetermined pressure is readjusted by readjustment, so that the desired draft is maintained even with changing tides. The adjusting wheel 59 has a surface with a high coefficient of friction, so that its motor rotation to take along the rope 15 and thereby to a changed aspect ratio of between the pulleys 59 and 60 and the underground 14 leads stretched rope sections. This allows that when such a tide balancer 55 is provided on both longitudinal sides, by targeted rotation of at least one adjusting wheel 59 The power plant can be rotated around a vertical axis and thereby aligned with the wavefront. Also, especially with the use of a self-locking in the off state rotary drive, prevented with the arrangement that the pressure of the waves can the system back away. To the control walls 47 it is also noted that this in the event that the power plant 1 a plurality of laterally juxtaposed, coupled together fluid circulation systems or pumping chambers, not necessarily also lie between the pumping chambers, but also preferably therein only at the two ends of the blade 36 are attached.

The 15 to 17 show schematically a power plant according to the invention 1 according to yet another preferred embodiment. The internal structure and function of this wave power plant 1 agree with that 12 match variant described. A deviation exists insofar as (see also the schematic representation of the 16 . 17 ) a system with five side by side lined pumping chambers 5 whose total width in the example is about 50 meters and which is designed for an energy production of about 1 megawatt. A special feature is that a Tidenausgleichseinrichtung (again with reference numerals 55 designated), which two articulated arms 61 has, each having one end gelig kig to that of the pumping chamber 5 secluded end of the case 21 and the other end hinged to each one on the ground 14 anchored near the shore 62 is attached. As in connection with the top views of 16 and 17 becomes clear, are the articulated arms 61 in the transverse direction at the center of the back of the housing 21 connected so that the case 21 is rotatable about the formed common joint connection point. It is also provided that on both sides of the joint connection point, in the example at the lateral edges of the housing rear wall, depending on a pulley 63 is arranged. Both pulleys 63 be from a guy 15 revolve, which with one end in the range of one of the two anchors 62 on the articulated arms 61 is attached. One of the two pulleys 63 is provided with a rotary drive and has a high coefficient of friction, so that a rotation and the entrainment of the tether 15 and thereby a rotation of the power plant relative to the anchorages 62 causes (cf. 16 and 17 ). The to the 15 to 17 described Tidenausgleichseinrichtung 55 is simple, but fits the level of the power plant 1 without special measures of Tide. The power plant 1 is closed to the environment and thus offers great security even in stormy conditions. Also, extreme waves can roll over it without causing any damage. The articulated arms 61 can also serve as access bar for maintenance, in which connection with the reference numeral 73 symbolically a manhole with lock is designated.

The 18 to 23 schematically show a marine wave power plant according to the invention 1 According to yet another preferred embodiment, wherein the structure and the function of the fluid circulation unit again in principle corresponds to the structure and function of the variants described above. A special feature here is that the power plant 1 a buoyant outer casing 21 possesses, which from a first, with the shovel-like shell 36 the pumping chamber 5 rigidly connected cylinder chamber 64 that the pressure chamber 10 and a second, comparatively smaller and at the chamber 64 attached cylinder chamber 65 is formed. The chamber 65 takes in the return flow chamber 11 the turbine 3 and the generator 4 on, passing through the cylinder chamber 64 passing, circumferentially closed channel 31 as an extension of the return flow chamber 11 to an inlet valve 12 (in 18 obscured) with passage direction to the pumping chamber (and opposite reverse direction) leads. In the in 18 in the direction of view in front of the canal 31 extending cutting plane is recognizable that the exhaust valve 9 whose passage direction from the pumping chamber 5 in the pressure chamber 10 points (in reverse locking direction), in the illustrated embodiment as a pneumatically operated shutter 66 is designed to demand-based interruption of the air circulation. An automatic device not shown may be adapted to the exhaust valve 9 (and possibly also pneumatically operated intake valves 12 ) to open and close following the wave cycle so that the desired rhythm for power generation results and no further valves are necessary. Alternatively, there is the possibility that in the flow path of, for example, pneumatically operated shutters separate inlet and outlet valves 12 . 9 are present and the said automatic then only in the sense of a safety device is adapted to close all flaps in an emergency, for example. In case of water ingress, independently. At the in 18 reproduced embodiment is also before in the upper region of the pressure chamber 10 opening inlet to the turbine 3 an automatic flap that fulfills this safety function 66 represented with actuating means (pneumatic cylinder). Inside the pressure chamber 10 is with the reference numeral 51 denotes a level to which, for example, in a storm to lower the power plant flooding is possible. In the 18 unit shown has a lock chamber 67 with a lock entry 68 in the return flow chamber 11 on. The reference number 69 denotes a mounting hole for the installation of turbine 3 and generator 4 , In the sectional view of 19 designated 70 an entry lock with passage into the pressure chamber 10 , Also in this embodiment, the various chambers, for example, the too 12 assume exemplified volume and / or their ratios. Also related to a system length of 10 meters, the maximum, with 51 marked flooding level, for example, correspond to a weight of about 200 tons of water. On the other hand, if necessary, if necessary, in addition in the spaces between the cylinder chambers 64 . 65 and between the cylinder chamber 64 and the shovel 36 Concrete ballast of, for example, about 40 to 50 tons of weight (again based on 10 meters system length) are housed. The 21 to 23 show various successive states of a flooding cycle, in which a wave the pumping chamber 5 with respect to the 18 to 20 described, particularly light and economical marine wave power plant 1 compressed. 21 shows the beginning, 22 the further course and 23 the end of compressing the pumping chamber 5 , where first the anchoring of the power plant 1 not shown with.

24 shows in a schematic longitudinal view that already to the 18 to 23 described marine wave power plant 1 according to a preferred embodiment. Accordingly, on each of the two longitudinal sides, a tide compensating device which also serves for anchoring to the base is provided 55 provided, each having two spaced axially parallel to the housing 21 fixedly mounted pulleys 71 . 71 ' , The pulleys 71 . 71 ' are each a rope 15 . 15 ' revolve, with the respective rope 15 . 15 ' at one end on the ground 14 and on the other end to a weight 72 . 72 ' is attached and the length of the ropes 15 . 15 ' so measured is that the weights 72 . 72 ' in the water 2 hang and the ropes 15 . 15 ' keep under tension. At the pulley 71 In the example, this is a free-wheeling pulley that allows tide compensation and shaft alignment. The pulley 71 ' is coupled to a blocking drive (eg hydraulically or electrically) and can serve by unidirectional or asymmetrical rotation on both longitudinal sides to align the system to the wavefront. Instead of ropes 15 . 15 ' can also be used, for example, chains use, where it is at the pulleys 71 . 71 ' also can act on sprockets. The weights 72 . 72 ' Depending on the water depth and tidal range, they can either be suspended in a single pull or, for example, with double weight and a pulley.

All disclosed features are (for itself) essential to the invention. In the disclosure of the application will hereby also the disclosure content of the associated / attached priority documents (Copy of the advance notice) fully included, too for the purpose, features of these documents in claims present Registration with.

Claims (31)

Power plant ( 1 ), in particular marine wave power plant ( 1 ), comprising at least one turbine to be operated by fluid ( 3 ) and at least one of the turbine ( 3 ) to be driven generator ( 4 ), characterized in that the power plant ( 1 ) comprises at least one fluid circulation unit, the latter having at least one pump chamber suitable for receiving and for the time-variable delivery of fluid ( 5 ), wherein the chamber volume of the pumping chamber ( 5 ) flexible wall by external force, in particular by the action of sea waves, with displacement of fluid from the pumping chamber ( 5 ) is changeable, at least one pressure chamber ( 10 ) connected to the pumping chamber ( 5 ) by means of at least one exhaust valve ( 9 ) for the discharge of fluid from the pumping chamber ( 5 ), wherein the pressure chamber communicates with the inlet of the turbine ( 3 ) and at least one return flow chamber ( 11 ) connected to the outlet of the turbine ( 3 ) and which return flow chamber ( 11 ) with the pumping chamber ( 5 ) by means of an inlet valve ( 12 ) for the admission of fluid into the pumping chamber ( 5 ). Power plant according to claim 1 or in particular according thereto, characterized in that a compressible fluid such as gas, in particular Air, is provided. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that a number of floating bodies and / or in particular the fluid-containing floating chambers are provided, so that the power plant ( 1 ) is buoyant. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that anchoring means ( 13 ) are provided, which are fastened to the ground, on the shore or the like. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the anchoring means ( 13 ) are adapted to balance the tide. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that by means of the number of floating bodies or floating chambers and / or the anchoring means ( 13 ) the waterline of the power plant is adjustable. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the pumping chamber ( 5 ) is at least partially above the waterline. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the pumping chamber ( 5 ) is bounded by airtight, in particular rubber-elastic membrane. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the membrane for forming the pumping chamber ( 5 ) on a blade-like shell ( 36 ), whose side edges in particular extend diagonally with respect to the waterline, and in particular that the membrane is connected at the edge airtight to the diagonal side edges. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the pumping chamber ( 5 ) has at least in fluid-filled state pillow-like surface, the side and / or upper side for an external force attack, in particular by sea waves, exposed. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the pumping chamber ( 5 ) is hinged to the power plant. Power plant after one or more of the above hergehen claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that as inlet and / or outlet valves ( 9 . 12 ) automatic check valves are provided. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that between turbine ( 3 ) and generator ( 4 ) A reduction gear is arranged. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that within the fluid circulation unit is a closed fluid circuit. Power plant according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that a plurality of fluid circulation units are connected to each other, so that the jewei time return flow chambers ( 11 ) with each other and the respective pressure chambers ( 10 ) communicate with each other for the exchange of fluid, wherein in particular each fluid circulation unit is a turbine ( 3 ) having. Power plant, in particular a marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that one or more side-by-side provided cushion-like pumping chambers ( 5 ) in a shovel-like bowl ( 36 ) are arranged, wherein the shell ( 36 ) at their side edges baffles ( 47 ) for laterally bordering and / or supporting the one or more pumping chambers ( 5 ). Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the fluid circulation unit can connect to the environment by means of a particular pneumatic valve blower ( 52 ), which in particular in the return flow chamber ( 11 ) is arranged for selectively blowing air from the environment in the fluid circulation unit, in particular in the return flow chamber ( 11 ), or purging air from the fluid circulation unit, in particular from the return flow chamber ( 11 ), in the nearby areas. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that means for opening delay of the inlet valve ( 12 ), wherein the means in particular one of the pressure in the pumping chamber ( 5 ) or by the actuation of at least one exhaust valve ( 9 ) have dependent control. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the inlet valve ( 12 ) and / or the outlet valve ( 9 ) each have a perforated sheet-like flow area and a contrast in the valve blocking direction loosely fitting membrane, in particular a rubber curtain having. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the fluid circulation unit as a safety system one or more, in particular automatically and / or pneumatically operable, caps ( 66 ) for selectively interrupting the fluid circulation, wherein closure caps ( 66 ) in particular in the area of inlet and / or outlet valves ( 12 . 9 ) and / or in the inlet area of the turbine ( 3 ) or the closure flaps in particular themselves as inlet and / or outlet valves ( 12 . 9 ) are formed. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that in the lower region of the pumping chamber ( 5 ) a water-detecting sensor is arranged, which triggers an optical and / or acoustic signal depending on the sensor signal and / or the closure of the closure caps ( 66 ). Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that a particular remote-controllable control or regulation is provided, depending on their input signal, in particular depending on their radio input signal, the purging of air from the fluid circulation unit by means of Blower ( 52 ) and / or closing the caps ( 66 ) and / or the at least partial flooding of the pressure chamber ( 10 ). Power plant, in particular a marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that a tide compensation device ( 55 ) is provided, comprising a deflection roller ( 58 ), which against a force, in particular a hydraulic piston ( 57 ), lowered relative to the power plant and by a with both ends, in particular at the sea bottom, anchored tether ( 15 ), Retaining chain or the like is at least partially wrapped. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto ge indicates that the tide balancing device ( 55 ) at least one provided with a rotary drive, in particular with a hydraulic rotary drive, and at least partially embraced by the tether or the retaining chain Verstellrad ( 59 ) and that in particular on both longitudinal sides of the power plant ( 1 ) each a Tidenausgleichseinrichtung ( 55 ) is provided. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that a tide compensation device ( 55 ) is provided, comprising at least one articulated arm ( 61 ), which at one end articulated at the power plant and at the other end articulated to an anchored in particular on the seabed or shore anchorage ( 62 ) is attached. Power plant, in particular a marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the tide compensation device ( 55 ) two articulated arms ( 61 ), one end of each at a peripheral center region of the marine wave power plant ( 1 ) hinged and of which the other end in each case to one of two fixable in particular at the seabed anchors ( 62 ) is attached. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that at the power plant ( 1 ) on both sides of the connection of the articulated arms ( 61 ) each a pulley ( 63 ) is arranged, that the pulleys ( 63 ) together by a tether which can be fastened with one end each in the region of a respective basic anchorage ( 15 ) or retaining chain are circulated and that at least one of the deflection rollers ( 63 ) is provided with a particular hydraulic and / or remote-controlled rotary drive. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the power plant ( 1 ) a buoyant outer casing ( 21 ), the at least one cylinder chamber, in particular parallel cylinder chambers ( 64 . 65 ), wherein the blade-like shell ( 36 ) for the pump chamber ( 5 ) on one of the cylinder chambers ( 64 ) is arranged so that a reference line connecting the side edges of the blade extends parallel to the cylinder axis. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that the pressure chamber ( 10 ) in the first, the pumping chamber ( 5 ) adjacent cylinder chamber ( 64 ) and that the turbine ( 3 ) in the second cylinder chamber ( 65 ), wherein in particular the diameter ratio of the first to the second cylinder chamber is greater than 1 and further in particular is about 1.5. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that a tide compensation device ( 55 ) is provided, comprising at least two spaced, in particular paraxial, at the marine wave power plant ( 1 ) fixedly mounted pulleys ( 71 . 71 ' ), whereby in each case one pulley of one rope ( 15 . 15 ' ), a chain or the like, the rope ( 15 . 15 ' ) or the chain at one end to a particular on the ground ( 14 ) anchored anchorage and at each of the other end to a weight ( 72 . 72 ' ) and the length of the rope ( 15 . 15 ' ) or the chain is dimensioned so that the weights ( 72 . 72 ' ) under tension of the rope ( 15 . 15 ' ) or the chain in the water ( 2 ) hang. Power plant, in particular marine shaft power plant, according to one or more of the preceding claims or in particular according thereto, characterized in that at least one of the deflection rollers ( 71 . 71 ' ) of the tide balancing device ( 55 ) is coupled with a blockable rotary drive, in particular with an electric or hydraulic rotary drive, and that in particular on two in particular opposite sides of the power plant ( 1 ) each a Tidenausgleichseinrichtung ( 55 ) is provided.