Buoyancy pump power system

Floating pump energy production system.

REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUESTS

The present application claims the advantages and priority over US application No. 60 / 636,492, filed December 16, 2004 and US application de60 / 653,618, filed February 16, 2005, which are incorporated herein by reference. .

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the invention

The present invention relates generally to a pumping device and more particularly, but without limitation, to a floating pump device in a floating pump power generation system, which uses a displacement volume of water to move a gas. , a liquid and their combinations from a first location to a second location.

2. Description of the related art

There have been many attempts to use what is usually referred to as the wave phenomenon and to transfer the energy observed in the wave phenomenon to usable, safe sources of energy. The wave phenomenon involves the transmission of energy and moment by vibratory impulses through different states of matter, and in the case of electromagnetic waves for example, through a vacuum.

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Theoretically, the medium itself should not move when the energy passes through it. The particles, which constitute the medium, simply move in a translational or angular (orbital) pattern transmitting energy to one another. Waves, like those on the surface of an ocean, have particle movements that are neither longitudinal nor transverse. In contrast, the movement of particles in the wave typically involves longitudinal and transverse wave components. Longitudinal waves typically involve particles moving backward and forward in the direction of energy transmission. These waves transmit energy through all states of matter. Transverse waves typically involve particles moving backward and forward at right angles to the direction of energy transmission. These waves transmit energy only through solids. In an orbital wave, particles travel in an orbital path. These waves transmit energy along an interface between two fluids (liquids or gases).

Waves occurring, for example, on the surface of an ocean, typically involve the components of the longitudinal wave and the transverse wave, as the particles in the ocean wave travel in circular orbits at the interface. between the atmosphere and the ocean. Waves typically have several easily identifiable characteristics. These characteristics include: the peak, which is the highest point of the wave; the trough, which is the lowest point of the wave; height, which is the vertical distance between a ridge and a trough; the wavelength, which is the horizontal distance between a ridge

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 and a trough; the period, which is the time which elapsed during the passage of a wavelength, ٠ the frequency, which is the number of waves, which passes at a fixed point per unit of time, and! the amplitude, which is half the height and is equal to the energy of the wave.

There have been several attempts to use the energy produced by wave phenomena going back to the turn of the previous century, such as the system described in US patent 597,833, issued January 25, 1898. These tests included the erection of a sea wall to capture the energy derived from the wave phenomenon; using track and rail systems involving complex machinery to utilize the energy of the wave phenomenon; the development of pump systems, which are suitable only for shallow water wave systems; and the construction of towers and the like near the shore where the ebb and flow of the tide occurs. Still other tests were carried out, which are not described in detail here.

Each of these systems presents problems. For example, certain systems, which are suitable for use in seawater, are thus subjected to a harsh environment. These systems involve many mechanical parts which require constant maintenance and replacement, and therefore make the system undesirable. Other systems are limited to construction only on shore or in shallow water, which limits the placement of the systems and therefore makes them undesirable. Finally, other systems do not use all the energy provided by the wave phenomenon, and therefore

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 waste energy through collection, resulting in an inefficient system.

The depletion of traditional sources of energy, such as petroleum, has required the need for efficient alternative sources of energy. The greenhouse effect, which is believed to be the cause of phenomena such as global warming and the like, further establishes the need for an energy-creating, environmentally friendly device. The decline in traditionally available fuel sources has led to an increase in energy costs, which is felt globally. This is in addition to the need to create a low cost, high efficiency and ecological energy device.

The need for inexpensive, easily accessible sources of energy is also keenly felt around the world. In places like China, for example, rivers are blocked to create major energy supply points for a rapidly growing population. Such projects can take 20 years or more to complete. The availability of the energy created by such a lock project cannot begin until the project is completed. Thus, there is still a further need for an energy device, which supplies energy immediately upon its construction and which has a short construction period.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above mentioned problems and needs are solved by a system of floating, wave driven or current pump devices according to the principles of the present invention. The devices

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<img file="MA29151B1_D0001.tif" />

Floating pump include a floating block housing, defining a floating chamber, through which fluid can flow. A floating block is disposed in the floating chamber to move there axially in a first direction, responsible for the rise of the fluid in the floating chamber and a second direction responsible for the decrease of the fluid in the floating chamber.

A piston cylinder is connected to the floating block housing and has at least one valve disposed therein, functioning as an input in response to movement of the floating block in the second direction and as an output in response to movement of the floating block in the first. direction. A piston is slidably disposed within the piston cylinder and is connected to the floating block, the piston being movable in the first and second directions and being responsible for moving the floating block in the second direction to attract a fluid substance into it. the piston cylinder through the at least one valve, and in response to movement of the floating block in the first direction, the fluid substance exits through the at least one valve.

If the floating pump devices are configured to pump liquid, the floating pump devices are connected to a conventional liquid storage facility. The stored liquid is then used to power a liquid turbine for the generation of energy, if gas is the medium to be pumped, the floating pump devices are connected to conventional gas storage installations. The stored gas is then used to power a gas turbine for power generation.

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One embodiment for generating electricity includes a system and method for converting wave motion into mechanical energy. A fluid substance or material is entrained as a function of mechanical energy to a reservoir. Fluid material flowed out of the reservoir. At least a portion of the kinetic energy of the flowing fluid material is converted into electrical energy. The fluid material can be liquid or gaseous.

In designing the floating pump devices to be placed in a water feature, a system and method for designing a floating pump device can be used. The system may include a computer system, including a processor for running software. The software receives input parameters, containing the wave history data from an area of ​​the water feature and calculates at least one dimension of a floating device of the floating pump device based on the input parameters. The size (s) of the floating device are adapted to allow the floating device to create a rising pressure for a fluid material entrained by the floating pump device.

Another embodiment according to the principles of the present invention includes a system and method for generating electricity from a turbine based on wave energy from a body of water. The system includes devices. of floating pump configured in the body of water at certain distances to allow a wave (i) to substantially reform after passing through at least a first floating pump device and (ii) to entrain at least a second floating pump device. The

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 Floating pump devices can be operated to move fluid material to drive the impeller.

The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the method and apparatus of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description, the same reference numbers representing like elements, when taken within the scope of the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is an exploded elevation view of a floating pump device in a first embodiment in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

<td>to use in a</td><td>system</td><td>of energy production</td><td>at</td>

<td>floating pump;</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>Figure 2Α</td><td>is a</td><td>top plan view</td><td>of</td>

<td>pump device</td><td>floating</td><td>of Figure 1;</td><td></td>

<td>Figure 2Β</td><td>is a</td><td>cross section of</td><td>the</td>

<td>figure 2Α, taken on</td><td>along the</td><td>lane 2Β-2Β;</td><td></td>

<td colspan="2">Figure 2 is a plan</td><td>device side</td><td>of</td>

floating pump assembly of Figure 1;

Figures 3A-3C are top, side, and isometric elevational plan views of an exemplary floating block in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Figure 3D is a partial cross section of an exemplary floating block having a telescoping portion;

Figures 3E-3F are top plan views of an exemplary adjustable base portion of a block

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 exemplary float in a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration, respectively;

Figures 4A-4C are side views of the floating pump device of Figure 1 when a wave passes through the floating pump device;

Figure 4D is a schematic illustration of an exemplary wave;

Fig. 5 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device for use in a floating pump power generation system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Fig. 6 is a side view of another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device for use in a floating pump power generation system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Figure 7 is a side view of another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device for use in a floating pump power generation system in accordance with the principles of the present invention, ٠

Fig. 8 is a side view of another embodiment of an exemplary wave pump of a floating pump device for use in a floating pump power generation system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Fig. 9 is a side view of another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device for use in a floating pump power generation system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

AT

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Fig. 10 is a side view of another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device for use in a floating pump power generation system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Fig. 11 is a side view of another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device for use in a floating pump power generation system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Fig. 12Α is an illustration of an exemplary floating chamber seal, which may be used as a structural component of another embodiment of a floating pump device;

Figure 12Β is a top perspective view, taken along the cross section of the floating chamber of Figure 1, which uses the floating chamber seal shown in Figure 12Α;

Figure 12C is another embodiment of the floating chamber seal of Figure 12Α, configured as a cap of a piston chamber;

Fig. 13 is a drawing of a system for dynamically determining and / or adjusting the size of a floating block, based on wave data, such a system giving an image of a diagram of a floating block. exemplary floating block displayed on a computer system monitor;

Fig. 14 is an elevational view of a floating pump power generation system, which utilizes a water tower in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Figure 15 is an elevational view of a floating pump power generation system, in one form

Λ

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 of alternative embodiment according to the principles of the present invention;

Fig. 16 is an elevational view of another floating pump power generation system, in an alternate embodiment;

Figure 17Α is an illustration of an exemplary pump field 1700, which includes floating pump devices configured to drive fluid to a reservoir in response to waves in an ocean;

Figure 17Β is an enlarged view of the configuration of the float pump devices, including specific float pump devices;

Figure 18 is a float pump system according to one embodiment of the present invention having a series of reservoirs, capable of receiving fluid driven by the float pump system;

Fig. 19 is a floating pump according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 20-39 are assemblies and detailed views of a floating pump according to one embodiment of the present invention, and

Figures 40-44 are an assembly and a detailed view of a floating pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof and in which there is shown, by way of illustration, specific preferred embodiments, in which the invention can be shown. be put into practice. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to allow

AT

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PCT / US2OO5 / 045419 to those skilled in the art to put the invention into practice, and it is understood that other embodiments can be used and that logical, mechanical, structural and chemical changes can be made without the need for to depart from the spirit or the scope of the invention. To avoid details not necessary to enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention, the description may omit certain information known to those skilled in the art. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims.

To solve the problems identified above, a floating pump device is proposed to convert the potential energy, which exists in the natural movement of very large volumes of water found in the form of, but not limited to, the oceans, lakes and rivers, in the form of swells and waves, into mechanical energy with relatively high efficiency. The floating pump device can be adapted to pump gases and liquids, or combinations thereof. As such and as stated herein, gas is defined as fluid or gas, thus including air and water. The pumped gas or liquid, as a source of mechanical energy, can then be used to power turbines, air tools, ventilation or any other mechanical device using this form of energy.

The source of mechanical energy can also be used for creation using mechanical devices.

Referring now to Figure 2C in combination.

of electrical energy, in conversion similar to figure 1 up to a pump device

١/

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 is represented in different views according to

<img file="MA29151B1_D0002.tif" />

float 100 a first embodiment of the present invention. The floating pump device 100 comprises a base 102, a floating cylinder 104 connected to one end of the base 102 and closed at the other end by a floating cylinder cap 106, and a piston cylinder 108 connected to one end of the. floating cylinder cover 106, and aligned generally coaxially with floating cylinder 104. The other end of the piston cylinder 108 is closed by a piston cylinder cap 110. The floating cylinder 104 is closed at one end by the top surface of the base 102 and at the other end by the floating cylinder cover. 106 to define a floating chamber

112.

A floating block

114 generally cylindrical in shape, is positioned so as to be able to slide in the floating chamber 112 in order to move axially therein. A piston pin 116 connected to

The upper end of the float block 114, extends generally axially therefrom through an opening 118 in the float cylinder cap 106. A piston 120, generally cylindrical in shape, is positioned slidably within. piston cylinder 108 and connected to the lower end of the other end of piston pin 116, to move there generally axially. Piston cylinder 108 is closed at one end by the top surface of piston 120 and at the other end by the piston cylinder cap 110 to define a piston chamber 122 therein.

An inlet valve 124 and an outlet valve 126 extend through the piston cylinder cap

Λ

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<img file="MA29151B1_D0003.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

110, in communication with the piston chamber 122, to allow gas or liquid to flow therethrough. An inlet line 128 and an outlet line 130 are connected to the inlet valve 124 and the outlet valve 126, respectively, and are adapted to receive and remove, respectively, gas or liquid from the other ends.

Base 102 may contain ballasts to maintain floating pump device 100 in a fixed position relative to the environment. Base 102 may also include a storage receptacle for the gas or liquid transferred therein, which is connected to the outlet line 130 to receive air or liquid from the piston chamber 122. if base 102 is to be used as storage, a base opening 132 may be connected to it to allow gas or liquid to flow to a desired location from base 102. Note that the location of the sort of base 132 on base 102 can be adapted, so that base outlet 132 can be placed anywhere on base 102.

The floating cylinder 104, which can also be a floating block housing, can be connected to the upper surface of the base 102, by chains 134, which in turn, are connected to the floating cylinder 104. In this way, the chains 134 stabilize the floating cylinder 104 on the base 102. It should be noted that guy wires or other connecting means can be used to couple the floating cylinder 104 to the base 102, and the present invention is not limited to chains 134 as a connecting means.

The floating cylinder 104 may also have a series of evenly spaced openings on its

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 perimeter, to allow liquid, such as water, to flow through the floating cylinder 104 surrounding the floating block 114. To reduce the turbulence associated with such flow, a series of turbulence openings 131 may be arranged on the floating cylinder 104. Thus, the floating cylinder 104 may include a cage or the like, to reduce the friction associated with the flow of gas through the floating cylinder 104.

The floating cylinder 104 has a certain length. The length of the floating cylinder 104 relates to the movement of the floating block 114 in different liquid environments. For example, when the floating pump device 100 is placed in an oceanic environment, the length of the floating cylinder 104 must be adjustable to allow the floating pump device 100 to operate with the annual changes in tide and wave heights. When the floating pump device 100 is placed in a lake environment, for example, the length of the floating cylinder 104 should not require adjustment for operational settings at wave height.

In another example, in a body of water having a depth of 10 feet, a floating cylinder must be at least 10 feet and have an additional functional height of 7 feet, in addition to the 10 feet, to allow movement of the floating block. in the floating chamber. Thus, the floating cylinder should be 17 feet in size and have a usable stroke of 7 feet. But if the body of water has tidal changes, this example changes slightly.

In the modified example, with the pump device floating in a 10 foot sea with a 2 foot tidal change, there is a loss of 2 feet of stroke.

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 usable. To account for this change, the difference between the annual base tide and the high tide is added to the length of the floating cylinder to be deployed. Thus, in an environment where the maximum wave height is 7 feet, low tide is 10 feet and high tide is 14 feet, the difference between low tide and high tide will be 4 feet. This is added to the length of the floating cylinder (7 feet (for maximum wave height) -t 10 feet (to allow the floating pump device to operate at low tide) 4 ب feet (difference between high tide and tide) low)) for a total length of the floating cylinder of 21 feet. This allows a 7 foot run on high tide days with full use of the passing waves.

The cap of the floating cylinder 106 is adapted to support the piston cylinder 108, and the opening 118 therein is adapted to prevent the entry of liquid flowing into the floating chamber 112, into the piston cylinder 108. The cap of the floating cylinder 106 can be connected to the floating cylinder 104 by welding or screwing, or any other suitable means of connection, adapted to resist the forces of the environment, while supporting the loads created by piston cylinder 108 and its structural components. Seals can be used in the opening 118 of the floating cap 106 to prevent the entry of liquids or gases into the piston cylinder 108 from the floating chamber 112. The piston cylinder 108 is adapted to seal the interior of the piston. piston cylinder 108 relative to the environment. Piston cylinder 108 is constructed of a material intended to limit the effects of

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PCT / US2005 / O45419 the environment, including the water of lakes, oceans and rivers.

The floating block 114 disposed in the floating chamber 112 is generally cylindrical and has a tapered top surface. The float block 114 has a predetermined buoyancy, so that the float block 114 moves in a cycle according to the dynamics of the fluids, the water in which the floating pump device 100 is located, and the hydraulic or pneumatic characteristics of the fluid. system of the floating pump device 100 itself. The buoyancy of the float block 114 can be adjusted depending on the characteristics and dynamics of the fluids of the water and the system. Such adjustments can occur (1) manually or remotely, by adjusting the float block 114 axially or radially relative to the float chamber 112 or in both directions; (2) by adjusting other characteristics of the floating block 114 affecting its behavior in water. An exemplary fit is described in more detail below.

The piston shaft 116 is coupled to the floating block 114 and the piston 120, via respective connection joints 136, 138. The connection joints 136, 138 can be designed to be removable or flexible in response to any radial movement of the piston. 120 or the floating block 114 when the piston 120 and the floating block 114 are not axially aligned. Such movement or flexibility can be achieved by the use of a swivel couple or any other suitable coupling means.

Piston shaft 116 is designed to be lightweight and resistant to the environment, so that the piston shaft

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 Piston 116 continues to operate after exposure to severe environmental conditions. Piston shaft 116 is further designed to translate forces from floating block 114 to piston 120 and from piston 120 to floating block 114. Finally, the piston shaft 116 can be telescopically adjustable, so that the length of the piston shaft 116 can be increased or decreased, depending on the requirements of the floating pump device 100. The adjustment of the piston shaft 116 can be increased or decreased. Piston shaft 116 may be needed when air is the pumping medium, or when wave heights or swell are less than desired. Such adjustments allow maximum use of potential wave or swell energy.

To seal the piston chamber 122, the piston 120, which is positioned to slide within the piston cylinder 108, may include a seal extending around the perimeter of the piston 120. The seal is adapted to prevent gas seepage. or liquid from the environment in the piston chamber 122, or from the piston chamber 122 to the environment, as the piston 120 continues to slide in the piston chamber 122.

Inlet and outlet valves 124, 126 are one-way flow devices, which allow gas or liquid to flow into and out of piston chamber 122, respectively. It should be noted that the valves 124, 126 can be positioned at different locations on the piston cylinder cover 110, as long as a desired pressure can be achieved in the piston chamber 122.

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Because the movement of the floating block 114 in the floating cylinder 104 may be impeded by friction or other elements entering the floating cylinder 104, a series of wedges 140 may be connected to the inner surface of the floating cylinder 104. The wedges 140 extend axially along the perimeter of the floating cylinder 104, and further serve to stabilize the orientation of the floating block 114 in the floating cylinder. The wedges 140 can be constructed of a suitable material such that the coefficient of friction between the wedges 140 and the floating block 114 approaches zero.

To limit the axial movement of the floating block 114 in the floating cylinder 104, a series of stops 142 may be disposed on the inner surface of the floating cylinder 104 and disposed at a lower position thereof. The positioning of the stops 142 can be adjusted to match the desired length of stroke of piston 120 in piston cylinder 108 piston

It should be understood that the axial movement of the floating block 114 in the floating cylinder 104 is converted into the axial movement of the piston 120 in the piston cylinder 108 via the piston shaft 116. The piston shaft 116 and the connecting joints 136 still fix the position of the piston 120 relative to the floating block 114.

Referring now to Figures 3A-3C, an exemplary floating block 300 is shown in its top, side and isometric plan views. The floating block 300 has an axial opening 302, adapted to receive the coupling seal 136 (Figure 2Β) and thus, couple it to the piston shaft 116 (Figure 1). An upper portion 304 is tapered radially inward.

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 from the perimeter of the floating block 300, and terminates at the axial opening 302- The cone on the top 304 assists in the axial movement of the floating block 300, especially when the floating block 300 is submerged in the water. water and moves to the surface of the water. Although the upper portion 304 is shown separate from a lower portion 306 of the float block 300, it should be noted that the cone can start from any part of the float block 300 and end at the axial opening 302 to facilitate axial movement. of the floating block 300 in the water.

Referring now to Figure 3D, a partial cross-sectional soup of an exemplary alternative floating block 350 is shown. The floating block 350 has an upper portion 352 and a lower portion 354. The upper portion 352 has a radial taper portion 356 to facilitate axial movement of the floating block 350 in water and a non-taper 358 connected to the taper portion 356. . Nets 360 are formed on the internal perimeter of the upper part 352 of the floating block 350.

The part 354 of the floating block is generally cylindrical, and has a series of threads 362 formed on the outer perimeter of the lower part 354. The threads 362 of the lower part 354 are adapted to match the threads 360 of the upper part 352 and allow axial movement of the lower part 354, relative to the upper part 352.

The movement of the lower part e354 relative to the upper part e352 is achieved by the use of a motor 364. The motor 364 is connected to the lower part 354 on an upper surface 365 of the lower part 354. An axis d 'drive 366 couple

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PCT / US205 / O45419 motor 364 to upper part 365 and rotates lower part 354 in a predetermined direction, whereby the floating block 350 exhibits a telescope effect. Telescoping the lower portion 354 increases or decreases the height of the float block 350, thereby increasing or decreasing the buoyancy of the float block 350. It should be noted that the diameter of the float block 350 is similarly adjustable, using similar processes.

Referring now to Figures 3Ε and 3F in combination, a top view of an exemplary adjustable floating block base 370 is shown. The base of the adjustable float block 370 includes outer plates 372, inner plates 374 connected to outer plates 372, an axially disposed motor 376 connected to gear 378, and a series of expansion bars 380 connected to gear 378. and to the outer plates 372. The circumference of the base of the adjustable float block 370 is sealed with a plastic, thermoplastic or other sealant material 382, ​​such as rubber. The sealant material 382 prevents the entry of surrounding materials into the floating block base 370.

The outer plates 372 are connected to the inner plates 374 via rollers 384. The rollers 384 allow movement of the outer plates 372 relative to the inner plates 374. The guides for the rollers 384 can be positioned on the respective surfaces of the outer and inner plates. 372, 374.

The motor 376 is positioned axially in the base of the floating block 370 and is powered by an appropriate source of energy. Motor 376 is connected to gear 378, so that by actuation of the motor

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PCT / US2OO5 / 045419 376, the gear 378 rotates clockwise or vice versa.

Gear 378 is connected to extension bars 380, so that the rotation of gear 378 clockwise or vice versa results in a respective extension or contraction of the diameter of the base of the floating block. 370 by movement of outer plates 372 relative to inner plates 374 via rollers 384.

For example, Figure 3Ε shows the base of the floating block 370 in a contracted position, having a trace diameter D1. When motor 376 is actuated to rotate gear 378 clockwise, extension bars 380 rotate correspondingly to thereby extend the diameter of the base of floating block 370, as shown in Fig. figure 3F and plotted by D2. Thermoplastic material 382 similarly extends in relation to the extension of the diameter of the floating block. Thus, the base of the float block 370, when used in a float pump device, can expand or contract radially to increase or decrease the diameter of the associated float block. It should be noted that, although generally shown in a cylindrical configuration, the base of the floating block 370 may have another configuration depending on the design and requirements of the floating pump device.

Referring now to Figures 4Α, 4Β and 4C, the floating pump device 100 is shown in different positions when a wave (W) passes through the floating chamber 112 (Figure 1). The wave (W) passing

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PCT / US2O05 / O45419 in the floating pump device 100 has geometric characteristics, including the following:

The height of the wave (Wh) is the vertical distance between the crest (c) or the highest point of the wave and the trough (T) or the lowest point of the wave;

Wave length (Wl) is the distance between equivalent points, eg peak and trough, on the wave; and

The still water level (Swl) is the surface of the water in the absence of a wave, generally the midpoint of the wave height (Wh).

In Figure 4Α, the floating block 114 is shown in its highest vertical position, supported by the crest (C1) of the wave (W) when the fluid exits through the outlet valve 126. When the wave (W) passes through the floating chamber 112 from a distance of about half (1/2) of the length of the wave (W1) as shown in Figure 4Β, the floating block 114 falls into its position lowest vertical in the trough (T) of the wave (W) when the fluid is sucked through the inlet valve 124. In Figure 4C, wave (W) has traversed the entire length of wave (W1) so that floating block 114 has returned to the highest vertical position on the next ridge (2 ح) and the fluid is at again released by outlet valve 126.

The stroke of the piston (Pg) (not shown) of the floating pump device 100 is defined as the distance that the piston 120 is moved by the floating block 114 when the wave (W) passes through a length of wave (Wl) the floating chamber 112. When the wave (W) passes through the floating chamber 112, the floating block 114 drops a distance (Bd) equal to the height

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 wave from the peak position (Cl) in figure 4Α to the trough position (T) in figure 4Β, then rise again the same distance (Br) from the trough position (T ) in figure 4Β up to the peak position

C) in Figure 4C. So the piston stroke (Pg) is equal to twice the wave height (Wh):

fs - Bd + Br - 2Wh

Thus, the piston 120 has a downward "half stroke" and an upward "half stroke", also indicated "down stroke" and "up stroke", respectively.

The wave has a given wave height Wh and a period Wp as it passes through the floating pump device 100. The floating pump device 100 has a piston stroke Pg, which is defined by the piston moving over a period of. full Wp wave. As can be seen in Figure 4Α, as the wave moves through the floating pump device 100, the floating block moves in direct association with the wave.

When the floating pump device 100 is in a state of zero pressure, the floating block 114 is able to travel the maximum distance resulting from the movement of the wave, namely Psmax = 2W_L. This is converted to a full half stroke path of piston 120 in piston cylinder 108, which forces fluid out of the piston chamber through the valve.

Referring again to Figure 1 and in operation, after the floating pump device 100 has been initially placed in a body of water, such as an ocean, lake, river, or other wave or swell producing environment. , pressure

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Initial PCT / US2005 / 044519 in outlet line 130, outlet valve 126, and piston chamber 122 begins at a zero pressure state. A wave, having recognized properties, arrives at the floating pump device 100. The water from the wave gradually fills the floating chamber 112. As the water fills the floating chamber 112, the floating block 114 begins to rise with the water. in the floating chamber 112.

The buoyancy of the floating block 114 is designed so that most of the floating block 114 floats relatively high out of the water in the floating chamber 112, which allows the axial movement of the floating block 114 in the floating chamber 112. As the wave leaves , the floating block 114 descends with the water descending into the floating chamber 112 and by gravity. Piston shaft 116 transfers motion from floating block 114 to piston 120.

At the other end of the spectrum, when the floating pump device 100 starts at maximum pressure in the outlet line 130 and the outlet valve 126, most of the floating block 114 will be virtually submerged in the water in which the device is. floating pump 100 is placed. This results in a decreased stroke length of the piston 120 in the piston chamber 122.

Gravity pushes the downstroke of float block 114 and piston 120 as a wave or swell passes. With the rise of a given wave or swell, the buoyancy of the floating block 114 provides displacement / power to the piston 120 via the piston shaft 116. When the pressure of the piston 120 from the outlet valve 126 is low, the block float 114 rises relatively high in the water in the float chamber.

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<img file="MA29151B1_D0004.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 because the rise required is relative to the back pressure delivered to piston chamber 122 via outlet valve 126.

When the pressure of the piston is high, the axial movement of the floating block 114 in the floating chamber is limited, which results in the floating block 114 floating lower in the water. Under certain conditions of high pressure in piston chamber 122, float block 114 may be almost completely submerged and still move axially in the float chamber to pump liquid or gas into piston chamber 122. Eventually, the pressure of the outlet valve 126 can become so great that the buoyancy of the float block 114, even when fully submerged, can no longer provide sufficient upward force to move the piston 120. At this time, the floating block 114 and the piston 120 cease their movement even when the wave or swell continues to rise relative to the floating pump device 100.

For example, in a floating pump device having a floating block with a height of one foot, deployed at a maximum pressure situation, the floating pump device will lose about one foot of pump stroke in the piston cylinder. If a wave of only one foot is present, the floating pump device will not pump.

If this point is not reached, the floating block 114 and the piston 120 will continue to move axially with the rise of a given wave or swell until the wave or swell reaches its respective maximum height. which allows the piston 120 to move the liquid or gas in the piston chamber 122 by the valve

مر A

<img file="MA29151B1_D0005.tif" />

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PCT / US2005 / 0445419 output 126. This process is maintained until the point of maximum compression in the piston chamber 122 is reached, but still allowing outward flow.

When the floating block 114 is almost submerged or is submerged but still moving axially, this is indicated the upper water line of the floating pump device 100. When the wave or swell passes, the lowest point of descent of the floating block 114 is said to be the lower water line of the floating pump device 100. The distance between the upper water line and the lower water line determines the power stroke of the piston 120.

For example, when a gas is the medium to be pumped, the inlet line 128, which can be adjusted to connect a gas source, is placed in a location which communicates with and receives the gas from a gaseous environment such as! 'ambiant air. The outlet line 130 can be connected to the base 102 to store the compressed gas. It should be noted that the outlet line 130 can be connected to another place for storing the gas, such as a fixed storage tank, which is external to the floating pump device 100.

In the gas example, as the piston 120 descends with the descending wave, it creates a vacuum in the piston chamber 122 and pulls the gas through the inlet line 128 and the inlet valve 124 into the piston chamber. 122. At the bottom of the wave and after the water has evacuated the floating chamber 112, or when the floating block 114 contacts the stops 142, which inhibit further downward movement of the floating block 114 and the piston 120, the maximum amount of gas fills the piston chamber 122. When the wave

29151Β1

PCT / US2005 / 045419 begins to rise and as the water gradually fills the floating chamber 112, the floating block 114 is exposed and contacted with the water. The buoyancy of the floating block 114 results in a natural displacement of the floating block 114 in response to the rising water in the floating chamber 112. Because of the fixed position of the floating block 114 relative to the piston 120, facilitates by! piston 116, the piston 120 rises in direct relation with the rise of the floating block 114.

The gas which has been introduced into the piston chamber 122 is compressed in the piston chamber 122 as the floating block 114 rises, until the pressure of the compressed gas exceeds the pressure in the outlet line 130. At this time , gas flows through outlet valve 126 and outlet line 130 and is transported to a desired location for use or storage. For example, the exemplary base 102 described above or other storage location can be used to store the compressed gas. It is further conceivable that the gas can be expelled into the atmosphere, if the situation so requires.

When the wave reaches its maximum height as it passes through the floating pump device 100, water begins to flow out of the floating chamber 112. Gravity pushes the floating block 114 down with the wave, resulting in a downward movement of the piston 120, which creates a vacuum in the piston chamber 120. The vacuum again pulls the gas into the piston chamber 122, as previously described, thereby repeating the process with each successive wave, thereby causing the floating pump device 100 to successively and cyclically pull the gas into the chamber. piston 122, compress the gas in the

<img file="MA29151B1_D0006.tif" />

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 piston chamber 122 and force the gas out of piston chamber 122 towards base 102. Piston 120 further compresses the gas stored in base 102 on each cycle, until the block float 114 can no longer exceed the pressure of the gas stored in the outlet pipe 130. At this time, the floating block 114 no longer rises as a result of the waves.

In another example, when a liquid is the medium to be pumped, the inlet line 128 is connected to a liquid environment, such as water. The outlet line 130 can be connected to a storage tank, including but not limited to a lake, water tower, or other aqueous system. When incompressible liquids such as water are pumped, the piston shaft 116 should not require adjustment because the floating pump device 100 will pump until the piston chamber 122 is completely filled with the pump. incompressible liquid.

In the liquid example, lowering the piston 120 correspondingly creates a vacuum in the piston chamber 122, which draws water through the inlet line 128 and the inlet valve 124 and into the pressure chamber. piston 122. At the bottom of the wave and when the water escapes from the floating chamber 112, or when the floating block 114 contacts the stops 142, which inhibit further downward movement of the floating block 114, the maximum amount of liquid fills. the piston chamber 122.

As the wave begins to rise and the water gradually fills the floating chamber 112, the floating block 114 is exposed and contacted with the water. The buoyancy of the floating block 114 results in a natural displacement of the floating block 114 in response to

<img file="MA29151B1_D0007.tif" />

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / 045419! Water rising in the floating chamber 112. Due to the fixed nature of the floating block 114 relative to the piston 120, facilitated by the piston shaft 116, the piston 120 rises gradually, in direct relation to the piston. the rise of the floating block 114. In the case of water as the medium, the incompressible water rising in the piston chamber 122 exceeds the pressure in the outlet line 130. At this time, the water flows through outlet valve 126 and outlet line 130 and is transported to a desired location for use or storage. It is conceivable that the liquid and / or gas can be flushed into the atmosphere, if the situation so requires.

When the wave reaches its maximum height as it passes through the floating pump device 100, the water begins to gradually exit from the floating chamber 112. Gravity pushes the floating block 114 downward with the wave, which results in a downward movement of the piston 120, which creates a vacuum in the piston chamber 122. The vacuum again pulls the liquid and / or gas into the piston chamber 122. The process is repeated with each successive wave, thereby causing the floating pump device 100 to successively and cyclically draw liquid and / or water into piston chamber 122, and pump liquid and / or! water out of piston chamber 122.

It should be noted that in the liquid example, a loss of buoyancy displacement must be accounted for by the weight of water / liquid present in the piston chamber 122. However, in the gaseous example, due to the relatively light properties of gas compared to liquid, this loss is virtually non-existent. The loss in the liquid example can be

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 exceeded by the adjustable properties of floating block 114.

The operation of the floating pump device 100 depends on the environment in which it is used. For example, when the floating pump device 100 is disposed in an ocean, the wave averages of which have been predetermined annually, the floating pump device 100 must be coupled to a wave structure, or positioned with a ballast so that the floating pump device maintains its position relative to the waves. Such structures can be fixed or substantially fixed, or can include a water-proof container, a platform type device, or the direct coupling of the floating pump device 100 to the ocean floor. Such connections are common, particularly with the oil and gas industry, and are contemplated for use in conjunction with the novel floating pump device 100 in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

The float motion for driving the piston into the piston cylinder via the piston shaft is directly related to the motion capability of the floating block. Theoretically, for example, given a total displacement of the floating block of 100 pounds, subtracting the weight of the floating block (10 pounds), piston shaft, connectors, other miscellaneous parts (5 pounds) and the piston weight (2.5 pounds) of total displacement (100 pounds), one has a displacement capacity of 82.5 pounds. An empirical test of the floating pump device 100 operates at about 96% efficiency against this formula.

It is contemplated that the floating pump device 100 can be used to self-balance its position by

MY

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 relative to the ocean floor and thus maintain a generally stable position relative to the wave environment in which it is placed. For example, ballast tanks can be coupled to the floating pump device 100 and fitted with suitable ballasts. The floating pump device 100 can pump gas or liquid into the ballast tanks and thus adjust the position of the floating pump device 100 relative to the wave environment. Such a configuration can be achieved by coupling the outlet line 130 of the floating pump device 100 to the ballast tank and providing a control system to adjust the flow in and out of the ballast tank at a predetermined condition. Gas and liquid can be used depending on the desired fit of the floating pump device 100.

It is also envisioned that the length and width (diameter) of piston 120 can be adjusted to match the pumping medium or properties of piston 120, floating chamber 112 and block.

<td>floating</td><td>114. From</td><td>the</td><td>same way.</td><td>the</td><td>piston 120</td><td>can</td>

<td colspan="3">have a fit</td><td>telescopic</td><td>or</td><td>similar.</td><td>for</td>

<td>adjust</td><td colspan="2">the height</td><td>or width</td><td>of</td><td>piston 120,</td><td>of</td>

<td>way</td><td>similar</td><td>at</td><td>floating block</td><td> 300</td><td>(see figures</td><td>3Α-</td>

<td> 30 .</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>By</td><td>example.</td><td>the</td><td colspan="2">flow rates and settings</td><td>pressure</td><td>in</td>

the floating pump device 100 are related to the internal diameter and height of piston cylinder 108. The larger the piston cylinder 108 and the longer the piston stroke in the piston cylinder 108, the greater the amount of liquid or gas flowing with less pressure. Smaller is the

<img file="MA29151B1_D0008.tif" />

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 piston cylinder 108 and the shorter the piston stroke in piston cylinder 108, the greater the pressure present in the liquid or gas and the lower the amount of liquid or gas that is elapsed.

It is known that frictional losses can occur, even if small, depending on the lengths and dimensions of inner pipe 128 and inner pipe 130 and other materials, including inlet and outlet valves 124. , 126.

The size of the floating chamber 112 and the floating block 114 can also be adjusted to have maximum efficiency of the floating pump device. Such adjustments can be made, for example manually, by changing parts, automatically by incorporating telescoping parts on the respective component, or remotely, by configuring a control system to adjust the properties of the desired component. In this way, the floating pump device 100 can be calibrated to work on waves having varying properties, so that the floating pump device 100 can take advantage of large waves, small waves and waves having more moderate properties. .

To take advantage of these waves, the floating pump device 100 does not necessarily have to be attached to the base 102. On the contrary, the floating pump device can be for example, mounted on the bottom of the body of water, attached to a structure mounted on the bottom of the body of water, fixed to a rigid floating platform, attached to an offshore wall, or other mounting locations, which provide a stable platform or its equivalent-

<img file="MA29151B1_D0009.tif" />

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

The size of the floating pump device 100 and the function of the floating pump device 100 with respect to the amount of energy in the wave or swell can be determined by several factors. For example, these include: the annual size of large, small and medium waves; the annual high, low and medium tide marks; the average period of the wave or swell; the depth of the liquid at the location of the wave or swell; the distance from the shore to the wave or swell, the geography in the vicinity of the location of the wave or swell, and the structure of the floating pump device 100. It is envisioned that the floating pump device 100 may be used in combination with other grid floating pump devices to pump large volumes of gas or liquid through the pumps.

To determine the horsepower generated for a given wave height and wave speed, the wave horsepower (potential energy) and the horsepower of the floating block in the drop and rise configurations are calculated. From this data, the piston horsepower is then calculated for water and air pumping configurations. These calculations are described below, based on an exemplary test setup.

EXAMPLE A: small wave size

I. Horse power of the wave

Referring more specifically to Figures 4A-4D, the wave horsepower (Wave HP) is determined for a wave (W) traveling the distance of

<img file="MA29151B1_D0010.tif" />

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 half the length of the wave (1/2 Wl) as follows:

Wave HP = [(W٧) (D) / (HP)] (Ws) or

Wv (wave volume) of water / foot³) (Ww) (Wd) (Wh) (gallons

Ww = wave width (1/2 Wl) = 17.5 feet

Wd = wave depth = 17.5 feet

Wh = height of the wave = 5 feet and

D = density of water (8.33 lbs / gallon)

HP = unit horsepower (550)

Ws = wave speed (1/2 W_L/ W_T)

Wt = time for the wave to travel 1/2 Wl (7.953 seconds).

For example, the depth of the wave (Wd) is equal to the width of the wave (Ww) so that the profile of the wave (W) will completely cover the block

<td>floating</td><td>114 ', which is</td><td>form</td><td>cylindrical. For</td><td>the</td>

<td>numbers</td><td>indicated above.</td><td>who</td><td>are exemplary.</td><td>the</td>

<td>calculations</td><td>are the following :</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td colspan="2">Wave HP = [(11.453 gai)</td><td> (8,33</td><td>pounds / gal) / (550)]</td><td> (2,2</td>

feet / sec) = 382 or

مصا

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Wv - (1,531 feet³) (7.481 gal / feet³) = 11.453 gal.

and

Ws = (17.5 feet) (7.953 sec) = 2.2 feet / sec.

2. HP of the fall of the floating block

When the wave (W) travels through the floating chamber 104 during the fall stroke (Figures 4Α and 4Β), the floating block 114 falls with gravity in the trough (T). The horsepower of the floating block generated during the fall stroke (BBd) can be determined from the following equation:

BBd = ​​[(BBv) (D) (WR) / HP] (DSs) (TRd)

OR

BBv (volume of floating block) = (VB t vc) (7.48 gallons / feet³)

VB = volume of the base 114'a = Ttrhi

VC = volume of cone I14'b = (h / 12) (di2tdd٠d22) and (BBv) (D) = the displaced weight of the floating block 114 'where D = density of water (8.33 pounds / gallon)

WR = weight ratio of water to the material of the floating block 114 '

HP = unit horsepower (550)

DSs = speed of the fall stroke = B٥ / T٥

Bd = distance of the run during the fall

Td = time to travel the distance Bd

TRd = temporal ratio, i.e. the percentage of the time that the floating block falls during a wave period = 50% (for long symmetrical waves).

Ι ^ Α

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Continuing with the exemplary data given above for the Wave HP calculations, the calculations for the BBd are as follows:

BBd = ​​[(4.186 gai) (8.333 lb / gal) (0.10) / 550] (0.25 ft / sec) (0.5) = 0.79 HP (i.e., the horsepower available by the falling stroke of the floating block) where

BBv = (BV٠VC) (7.18 gal / feet³) = nrhi + (h / 12) (7.48) (ح 2 ه 2٠ ^^ 2 اه gal / feet³) and where di = 17.5 feet ri = 8.75 feet d2 = 3.5 feet hi = 1.5 feet h2 = 2.0 feet, so that

BBv =

[π (8.75) 2 (1.5) + (π (2.0 / 12) (7.48) [(3.52+ (3.5) (5 م 7 ا)₊ة 7.5 ا) = (361 feet³ + 199 feet³) (7.48 gal / feet³) = (560 feet³) (7.48 gal / feet³) = 4.186 gay

DSs = (1.00) / (3.976) = 0.25 feet / second (BBv) (D) = 34.874 pounds (total displacement) (BBv) (D) (WS) = 3.487 (usable weight)

2b. Horsepower of the rise of the floating block

As the wave (W) continues through the floating chamber 104 during the upstroke (Figures 4Β and

4C), the floating block 104 rises on the wave until it reaches the crest (C ؛). The horsepower of

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

<img file="MA29151B1_D0011.tif" />

the rise of the floating block generated during the upstroke (BBl) can be determined from the following equation:

BBl = [(BBv) (D) d-WR) / HP] (LSs) (TRr) where

LSs = speed of upstroke = Br / Tr

Br = running distance when climbing = 1 foot

Tr = time to cover the distance Br = 4.0 seconds

TRr = temporal ratio (i.e. the percentage of time that the floating block rises during a wave period) = 50% for long, symmetrical waves.

(BBv) (D) (1-WR) = usable weight during the climb run (UWl) = 31.382 pounds so that

BBl = [(31.382) / 550] (1 / 4.0) (0.5) = 7.13 HP

2c. Total input power in hp

<td>So the</td><td>amount</td><td>total</td><td>input power</td>

<td>taken from the</td><td>wave by</td><td>the block</td><td>float (BBt) is the</td>

<td>next :</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>ΒΒτ = BB٥ t</td><td>BBl</td><td></td><td></td>

Using the exemplary figures above, the total input horsepower for floating block 114 'is as follows:

ΒΒτ = 0.79 + 7.13 = 7.92 HP

MY

29151Β1

PCT / US2005 / 045419

3. Piston pump power (CFM / PSI)

The piston pumps water at a speed given in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and pressure given in pounds per square inch (PSI) for every half (1/2) stroke when the floating pump device is configured to pump! 'water according to the following formulas:

PF = water flow in the piston = (Sv) (SPM) (BPeff) where

Sv = volume per 1/2 stroke = (π / 2) (piston radius) 2 (stroke length) = (π / 2) (8.925) 2 (12) / (1.728) = 1.74 feet ^

SPM = strokes per minute = 7.54 strokes / minute

BPeff = empirically tested efficiency of the exemplary floating pump device = 83% so that

PF = (1.74) (7.54) (0.83) = 10.88 CFM = 0.181 CFS.

The determination of the piston water pressure (PSI) for each half (1/2) stroke in the floating pump device (pp) is carried out by the following equation:

PP = {W- [(Sv) (D) (7.48)]} / SAp

MY

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 or

UWl = usable weight during an uphill run = 31.386 pounds

Sv = 1.74 feet ^

D = density of water (8.33 lbs / gallon)

SAp = piston area (inch2) = π (8.925) 2 = 250 inch ؛

Thus, for the above exemplary figures, the PSI6 stroke for the exemplary floating pump device is calculated as follows:

PP = [31.386- (1.74) (8.33) (7.48)] / 250 = (31.386-108) / 250 = 125 PSI / stroke.

When the floating pump is configured to pump air, the piston area is increased to compensate for the compressibility of the air to achieve similar results. If the piston radius is increased to 12.6 inches, the piston area (SAp) increases to 498.76 square inches. Likewise, the added weight of the water above the piston [(Sv) (D) (7.48) = 108 pounds] is removed and therefore not subtracted from the usable weight during the upstroke (w ) when calculating the piston air pressure (PPa). All other figures remaining the same, piston air flow (PFa) and piston air pressure (PPa) will have the following values:

PFa = 21.7 CFM

PPa = 51.8 PSI / stroke.

MY

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Because those skilled in the art will readily understand the difference between using a piston to pump water or air, the remaining examples will focus on pumping water.

4. HP produced by the generator

When the exemplary floating pump device in a water pumping configuration is connected to an exemplary water storage tank to be used to supply power to an exemplary water turbine, the following empirical formula is used to measure. the energy produced by the floating pump device:

BP = {(PP) (BPeff) (Head) - [(Loss) (Head) (Pipe

Ft./Section)]} [(PF) (Teff) (KW) / HP] where

BPeff = efficiency of the empirically tested floating pump = 88%

Head = PSI to Head Conversion Factor (ft) = 2.310

Loss = driving efficiency loss factor = 0.068

Tube Ft./section = one tube at a length of 100 feet, and 10 tubes = 1 section of tube, so mile of tube = 5280 sections of tube

Teff = turbine efficiency based on an existing water turbine = 90%

KW = conversion factor for feet / second in KW = 11.8

HP = conversion factor for KW to HP = 0.746

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

<img file="MA29151B1_D0012.tif" />

Thus, using the above exemplary figures in combination with the foregoing calculations, the output BP of an exemplary power generation system using the floating pump device is as follows:

BP = {[(125) (0.88) (2.310) 1 [(0.068) (2.310) (10) (5.280)]) [(0.181) (0.9 / 11.8) / 0.746] = 0, 4558 (Total output HP available)

When the float pump is configured as an air pump, the power output (BPa) for an exemplary system, using the figures above, will be approximately 2.72 HP. Rather than using a water turbine to produce the output power, an air turbine should be used, including, for example, that described in US Patent No. 5,555,728, which is incorporated herein by reference.

5. Efficiency of input HP compared to output HP

Thus, the efficiency of converting input HP to output HP can be determined as follows:

Conversion efficiency = ΒΡ / ΒΒτ = 4.558 / 7.92 = 57%

Thus, with the aid of empirical and theoretical data, it should be noted that the exemplary floating pump device according to the principles of the present invention, when used in conjunction with an exemplary water turbine, has conversion efficiency. approximately 57% of the horsepower extracted from a wave

ΜΑ 29151Β1

<img file="MA29151B1_D0013.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 passing (ΒΒτ) in output BP, which can be used as an energy source.

EXAMPLE B: Average wave size

The above exemplary calculations are performed with an exemplary floating block 114 'having a fixed diameter (di) dependent on the geometry of the floating block 114' and a height (hh). It should be noted that the wave height (Wh) varies for different locations and for 10 different times during the year at each location.

Thus, it is desirable to reconfigure or adjust this floating block based on the varying wave characteristics as described above. To ensure high efficiencies, the height and / or diameter of exemplary floating block 114 'can be adjusted. For example, the exemplary floating block 114 'can be designed or adjusted to increase the height of its base 104'a (h) and the related diameter to accommodate waves having a greater height (Wh), as described herein. below.

Based on the fact that the wave height (Wh) increases from 5.0 feet to 9.016 feet (an average wave size), the height of the base of the floating block (hi) is increased by 1.5 feet (see figure 4D), namely the "curvature" of the floating block, to increase the overall performance of the floating pump device in bodies of water with larger swells, to the average of 9 feet. Correspondingly, the stroke length of the piston increases and the number of strokes decreases as follows:

Strokes = 5.52

Piston stroke length = 42.2 inches

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Sv (volume / stroke) = 12.8 feet³ so that :

On the basis of the fact that all the other factors remain the same and by applying the above formulas, we construct the following table, Table 1:

Table 1

<td></td><td>Values</td><td>Wave 5 feet</td><td>9,016 feet wave</td>

<td> 1</td><td>Wave power</td><td>382 HP</td><td>2952 HP</td>

<td> 2</td><td>Power of the floating block BB٥ BBl BBt</td><td>0.79 HP 7.13 HP 7.92 HP</td><td>2.05 HP 31.67 HP 33.72 HP</td>

<td> 3</td><td>Piston pump power PF PP</td><td>10.88 CFM 125 PSI</td><td>27.98 CFM 185 PSI</td>

<td> 4</td><td>Generator power (BP)</td><td>0.4558 HP</td><td>20.32 HP</td>

<td> 5</td><td>Pump efficiency</td><td> 57%</td><td> 60%</td>

Thus, it can be seen that increasing the height of the floating pump by 1.5 feet results in greater horsepower in the rise and fall of the flattering block, and greater output horsepower in the system. exemplary with improved overall efficiency. Basically the

29151Β1

<img file="MA29151B1_D0014.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / 045419 Availability of larger waves in one location provides a source of wave power for floating pumps having larger floating blocks and pistons, which generate larger flow rates (e.g. PF = 27.98 CFM) and therefore, higher horsepower output (eg, BP = 20.32 HP) at any given location.

As noted above, the diameter (di) of floating block 114 '(see Figure 4D) can also be adjusted to accommodate larger waves at one location. The following table, Table 2, illustrates the extent to which variations in the diameter of the floating block affect the resulting horsepower (BBt) as the wave speed (Ws) varies for a specific wave height (Wh) and when the wave speed (Ws) varies for a specific wave height (Wh). wave height varies for a specific speed.

Table 2

<td rowspan="2">Wave height (Wh)</td><td colspan="2">Floating Block Diameter (inch)</td><td colspan="2">Floating block power (BBt)</td>

<td>Wg = 3 mph weak wave</td><td>Wg = 8 mph High wave</td><td>Wg = 3 mph weak wave</td><td>Wg = 8 mph High wave</td>

<td> 3</td><td> 12,6</td><td> 126</td><td> 0,9</td><td> 26,9</td>

<td> 4</td><td> 16,8</td><td> 168</td><td> 2,21</td><td> 64,76</td>

<td> 5</td><td> 21</td><td> 210</td><td> 4,39</td><td> 126,94</td>

<td> 6</td><td> 25,2</td><td> 252</td><td>ادا</td><td> 219,88</td>

<td> ٦</td><td> 29,4</td><td> 294</td><td> 12,28</td><td>2Λ% ΊΊ</td>

<td> 8</td><td> 33,6</td><td> 336</td><td> 18,45</td><td> 522,78</td>

<td> 9</td><td> 37,8</td><td> 378</td><td> 26,39</td><td> 745, 09</td>

<td> 10</td><td> 42</td><td> 420</td><td> 36,33</td><td> 1022,9</td>

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

The data in Table 2 is generated based on a wave having the indicated wave height and moving at 3 miles per hour for the weak wave and 8 miles per hour for the high wave. The equations given above are used to calculate the horsepower of low and high waves. The

<td>diameter</td><td>or</td><td colspan="2">floating block width is</td><td>adjust</td><td>for</td>

<td>achieve</td><td>of</td><td>wave environments</td><td>more</td><td>high</td><td>as</td>

<td>indicated</td><td>and</td><td>described above.</td><td>for</td><td colspan="2">maximize</td>

<td colspan="2">!'efficiency</td><td>of the floating pump</td><td>by</td><td>report</td><td>to the</td>

variable wave heights and wave speed.

The larger and faster the wave, swell or current, the greater the potential energy available for extraction by the floating pump device. Similarly, the larger the floating block, in height or diameter, the greater the potential energy available for extraction from the water. The smaller and slower the wave, swell, or current, the less potential energy available for water removal by the floating pump device. Similarly, the smaller the floating block, the lower the potential energy available for extraction from the water. To optimize the potential energy available for the floating pump device 100, the floating block 114 should be completely submerged and should not exceed the width or height of the wave or swell.

All of the above examples assume that waves of certain sizes are available at a specific site and on a regular daily basis for the floating pump device to be functionally effective. Fortunately, the data regarding wave heights at specific locations for r 29151Β1

46 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 each day of the year are available from several sources, including the website http; // www.ndbc.noaa.qov, which is incorporated here by reference. The following table (Table 3) shows wave data for January 5, 2001 and February 2001, taken at GRAYS HARBOR, WA.

Table 3

Wave averages over a year

Grays Harbor, WA Buoy (water depth =

125.99 feet)

<td colspan="3">January 2001</td><td colspan="3">February 2001</td>

<td>Day</td><td>Wave height (feet)</td><td>Period ٢sec١</td><td>Day</td><td>Wave height (feet)</td><td>Period ^ secj</td>

<td> 1</td><td> 8,20</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 1</td><td> 8,00</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 2</td><td> 9,20</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 2</td><td> 16,20</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 3</td><td> 7,10</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 3</td><td> 16,50</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 4</td><td> 10,20</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 4</td><td> 7,50</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 5</td><td> 9,80</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 5</td><td> 11,80</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 6</td><td> 13,60</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 6</td><td> 6,40</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> ٦</td><td> 6,30</td><td> 11,020</td><td> ٦</td><td> 7,80</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 8</td><td> 7,00</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 8</td><td> 5,50</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 9</td><td> 10,30</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 9</td><td> 9,40</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 10</td><td> 16,50</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 10</td><td> 9,40</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 11</td><td> 9,10</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 11</td><td> 6,90</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 12</td><td> 10,60</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 12</td><td> 6,60</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 13</td><td> 6,50</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 13</td><td> 5,20</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 14</td><td> 12,10</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 14</td><td> 4,10*</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 15</td><td> 8,80</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 15</td><td> 5,60</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 16</td><td> 5,30</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 16</td><td>ه ٦, لآ</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 17</td><td> 8,40</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 17</td><td> 5,00</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 18</td><td> 9,30</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 18</td><td>ل 2٢, ٦</td><td> 11,500</td>

ΜΑ 29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

<td colspan="3">January 2001</td><td colspan="3">February 2001</td>

<td>Day</td><td>Wave height (feet)</td><td>Period (secj</td><td>Day</td><td>Wave height (feet)</td><td>Period ١ حجةا</td>

<td> 19</td><td> 14,40</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 19</td><td> 5,60</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 20</td><td> 9,70</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 20</td><td> 6,80</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 21</td><td> 17,20</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 21</td><td> 6,60</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 22</td><td> 7,10</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 22</td><td> 6,80</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 23</td><td> 8,40</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 23</td><td> 6,50</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 24</td><td> 9,00</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 24</td><td> 5,60</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 25</td><td> 9,10</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 25</td><td> 4,90*</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 26</td><td> 10,50</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 26</td><td> 6,12</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 27</td><td> 9,80</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 2٦</td><td> 5,60</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 28</td><td> 5,00</td><td> 11,020</td><td> 28</td><td> 6,32</td><td> 11,500</td>

<td> 29</td><td> 19,00</td><td> 11,020</td><td colspan="3" rowspan="3">* non-operational (less than 5 feet)</td>

<td> 30</td><td> 9,40</td><td> 11,020</td>

<td> 31</td><td> 9,60</td><td> 11,020</td>

<td>Avg.</td><td> 9,89</td><td> 11,020</td><td>Avg.</td><td> 1,36</td><td> 11,500</td>

In Table 3, wave heights are measured each day of the month to reach a daily average. We calculate the average of wave period 5 for the entire month and use the same wave period for each day of the month. For January 2001, there are 31 operational days in total, given an exemplary floating pump arrangement with a minimum wave height requirement of 5 feet. As of February 10, 2001, because on Day 14 and Day 25 the wave heights are less than 5 feet, there are only 26 operational days for the exemplary floating pump device.

IgA 29151Β1

48 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Referring now to Table 4, the average wave height data are given for January and February, then for the whole year (data for March to December 2001 are available on the website mentioned above).

Table 4

<td></td><td>January</td><td>February</td><td></td><td>Annual</td>

<td>Average wave speed</td><td> 11,02</td><td> 11,50</td><td></td><td> 9,922</td>

<td>Average wave height</td><td> 9,89</td><td> 22, ٦</td><td></td><td> 7,467</td>

<td>Operational days</td><td> 31</td><td> 26</td><td></td><td> —</td>

<td>Cumulative operational days</td><td> 31</td><td> 57</td><td></td><td> 236</td>

<td>Average operational wave heights</td><td> 9,89</td><td>٦, ζ&gt; ٢١</td><td></td><td> -</td>

<td>Average wave height, cumulative</td><td> 9,89</td><td> 8,75</td><td></td><td> 8,54</td>

The wave heights averages for the operational days in January and February are determined at

9.89 feet and 7.60 feet, respectively. The operational wave height over the year for January and February will be 8.75 feet for a period of 57 days of operation. For the 2001 calendar year, the number of operational days is 236, with an average wave height of 8.54 feet. A user of a floating pump device described herein can obtain the publicly available data and determine the wave heights over the year and days of operation for a given floating pump device configuration.

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

<img file="MA29151B1_D0015.tif" />

The components of the floating pump device 100 must be suitable for operation in a saline environment, such as an ocean. Thus, the components of the floating pump device 100 must have anti-oxidant properties and / or be resistant to corrosion. To provide minimal environmental impact, the inlet 126 of piston chamber 122, which may be exposed to the environment, may have a filter placed thereon, to filter out unwanted components. In the case of algae or other degradable material, such as algae entering the floating chamber 112 or the floating cylinder 104, the algae will act as a natural lubricant between the moving components of the floating pump device 100. For example , if algae is lodged between the chocks 140 and the float block 114, the algae will reduce the friction between the chocks 140 and the float block 114, thereby increasing the efficiency of the float pump device.

Referring now to Figure 5, a side elevational view of an alternate embodiment of a floating pump device 500 is shown in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The floating pump device 500 includes a base 502, a floating cylinder 504 connected to one end of the base 502 and enclosed at the other end in a floating cylinder cover 506 and generally aligns, coaxially with the floating cylinder 504. the other end of the floating cylinder 504 is open and exposed to the environment. The floating cylinder 504 and the floating cylinder cap 506 collectively define a floating chamber 508.

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

A floating block 510, of generally cylindrical shape, is positioned so as to be able to slide in the floating chamber 508, in order to move axially therein. It should be noted that the floating pump device 500 in this embodiment eliminates the need for a piston and a piston shaft by combining the floating block of Figure 1 and the floating block and piston of Figure 1 in an equivalent floating block 510.

An inlet valve 512 and an outlet valve 514 extend through the cap of the floating cylinder 506, in communication with the floating chamber 508, to allow gas or liquid to flow therethrough. An inlet line 516 and an outlet line 518 are connected to the inlet valve 512 and the outlet valve 514, respectively, and are adapted to receive and expel, respectively, gas or liquid from the other ends. .

Base 502 may have a series of arms 520, extending to a bottom 522 of the body of water 524. A support base 526 is coupled to the arm 520, to secure the floating pump device 500 on the bottom 522. The base 502 connects the ballast tanks 528 to maintain the floating pump device 500 in a fixed position relative to the environment.

Positioned axially above the floating cylinder cover 506 is a ballast cover 530, which additionally serves to stabilize the floating pump device 500. The ballast cover 530 is adapted to accommodate valves 512, 514 and to conduits 516, 518 to communicate therethrough. Instead of a storage tank, the outlet line 518 can be connected to a flow line 532 for

29151Β1

PCT / US20Q5 / 045419

<img file="MA29151B1_D0016.tif" />

moving the gases or liquids flowing in the flow line to a desired location (not shown).

The floating block 510 disposed in the floating chamber 508 has a predetermined buoyancy so that the floating block 510 moves in a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water in which the floating pump device 500 is positioned and the characteristics. hydraulic or pneumatic system of the floating pump device 500 itself. The buoyancy of the float block 510 can be adjusted in a manner described above. Stops 534 are provided on an interior perimeter at a lower end of the float cylinder 504 to prevent the float block 510 from being drawn out of the float cylinder 504. The float block 510 has a seal formed around the perimeter of the block. floating 510 to prevent communication between the floating chamber 508 and the water 524.

The inlet and outlet valves 512, 514 are one-way flow devices, which allow gas or liquid to flow into and out of the floating chamber 508, respectively. It should be noted that the valves 512, 514 can be positioned in different places, as long as a desired pressure is reached in the floating chamber 508.

In operation, when the waves pass over the floating pump device 500, the water contacts the floating block 510 through the opening in the floating cylinder 504, to cause the floating block 510 to rise in a cycle according to the principle. fluid dynamics of water and the hydraulic or pneumatic characteristics of the floating pump device 500. The gas or liquid in the floating chamber 508 is discharged or r 29151Β1

52 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 driven through outlet valve 514 and outlet line 518 into flow line 532. As the wave leaves the floating pump device 500, the floating block 510 gradually descends by gravity, creating a vacuum in the floating chamber 508. Thus, the gas or the liquid enters through the inlet pipe 516 and the inlet valve 512 into the floating chamber 508. When the next wave approaches, the gas or liquid which has been drawn into the floating chamber 508 is again expelled through the outlet valve 514, the outlet line 518 and the flow line 532 in relation to the position of the block. floating as it rises above the wave.

Referring now to Figure 6, a side elevational view of yet another embodiment of a floating pump device 600 is shown. The floating pump device 600 includes a base 602, a floating housing 604 connects to the base 602, a floating housing cap 606, coupled to the floating housing 604, and a floating housing base 608, coupled to the other end of the floating housing. 604. Axially descending from and connected to the cap of the floating housing 606 is a piston shaft 610 and a series of piston supports 612. Connected to the other end of the piston shaft 610 and the piston supports 612, are There is a piston 614. Between the piston 614 and the base of the floating housing 608 is positioned a floating block 616, having floating block walls 618 extending towards the cap of the floating housing 606. The floating block 616, the walls of the floating block 618 and the piston 614 form a piston chamber 620. The walls of the floating block 618 are adapted to move by sliding between the piston 614 and the r 29151Β1

53 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 floating housing 604. Base 602 has a series of arms 622, descending to bottom 624 of water body 626. Base supports 628 are connected to arms 622 and positioned on bottom 624 of! ' water 626. The base supports 628 can be filled with a suitable ballast to maintain the position of the floating pump device 600 in a position relative to the waves 626.

The floating case 604 includes four vertical pillars 630, coupled to and positioned between the floating case cover 606 and the floating case base 608. A series of stops 632 is positioned on the respective upper and lower portions of the pillars 630, for maintaining the floating block 616 in the floating housing 604 and limiting its axial movement. At the top of the float box 604, a ballast cap 634 is connected to help hold the float pump assembly 600 in a fixed position relative to the water 626. The float box base 608 is connected on one side, at an outlet valve 636 and on the other side, to an outlet pipe 638. The base of the floating housing 608 provides communication between the outlet valve 636 and the outlet line 638. The outlet line 638 is telescopic in nature, and is slidably received into the base of the floating housing 608, so that as the floating block 616 moves in relation to the base of the floating housing 608, constant communication is maintained between. the outlet valve 636 and the outlet line 638. The piston shaft 610 and the piston supports 612 are secured relative to the cap of the floating housing 606 and the piston 614, to maintain a fixed position of the piston 614 relative to the cap of the floating housing 606.

٠

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

The piston 614 is connected to an inlet valve 640 to allow communication of the inlet valve 640 with the piston chamber 620. The inlet valve 640 is connected, in turn, to an inlet line 642. , to allow communication with the piston chamber 620 and the desired power source.

The floating block 616 and the walls of the floating block

618 can slide relative to the floating housing 604 and the floating housing pillars 630, so that the floating block 616 and the walls of the floating block 618 can move axially in the floating housing 604. The interface between the piston 614 and the walls of the floating block 618 is preferably sealed so that the piston chamber 620 can be under a fixed pressure with respect to the axial movement of the floating block 616 with respect to the piston 614, so that thus maintain pressure.

The inlet and outlet valves 640, 636 are one-way flow devices, which allow gas or liquid to flow into and out of the piston chamber 620, respectively. It should be noted that the valves 640, 636 can be positioned at different locations on the cap of the floating housing 606 and on the base of the floating housing 608, respectively, as long as a desired pressure is reached in the piston chamber 620.

In operation, when a wave having predetermined characteristics approaches and contacts the floating block 616 and the floating walls 618, the floating block 616 and the walls of the floating block 618 move axially upward with respect to the cycle. conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water, in which the floating pump device

٠

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

600 is place, and the hydraulic or pneumatic characteristics of the floating pump device 600 itself. The buoyancy of the float block 616 can be adjusted as described above.

The floating block 616 pressurizes the gas or licjuide in the piston chamber 620, so that the gas or liquid in the piston chamber 620 is expelled through the outlet valve 636 and the outlet line 638 to be transported in one. desired location by a flow line 644 coupled to the outlet line 638. As the wave leaves the floating pump device 600, gravity causes the floating block 616 and the floating block walls 618 to descend, which creates a vacuum in the piston chamber 620. The gas or liquid is then drawn through the line. inlet 642 and inlet valve 640 in piston chamber 620 until the float block contacts the stops or reaches bottom. As the next wave cyclically approaches the floating pump device 600, the process is repeated.

Referring now to Figure 7, a side elevational view of yet another embodiment of a floating pump device 700 is shown. The floating pump device 700 includes a base 702, a floating housing 704, a floating housing cover 705, connected to the floating housing, a piston housing 706 connects to the floating housing cover 705, a floating housing base 708, connected. at the other end of the floating housing 704, with the piston housing cap 710 connected to the piston housing 706 and a ballast cap 712, positioned above and coupled to the piston housing cap 710.

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O4541.9

<img file="MA29151B1_D0017.tif" />

A floating block 714 is axially disposed in the floating housing 704. A piston shaft 716 is connected to the upper surface of the floating block 714 at one end and to a stud 718, disposed axially in the piston housing 706, at the other! end. A piston chamber 719 is formed between the upper surface of the piston 718, the lower surface of the piston housing cover 710, and the piston housing 706.

An inlet valve 720 and an outlet valve 722 are connected to the piston chamber 719 by the piston housing cover 710. The inlet valve 720 and the outlet valve 722 extend through the piston housing cover. ballast 712 and are connected to an inlet line 724 and an outlet line 726, respectively.

Base 702 has a series of support arms 728, which extend to support base 730. Support base 730 preferably sits on bottom 732 of water body 734.

The floating housing 704 has a series of floating housing arms 736, extending to and connecting to the floating housing base 708. The floating housing arms 734 allow water to pass through them. A series of float block stops 738 are disposed at upper and lower locations on the inner surface of the float box arms 736, to limit the axial movement of the float block 714 in the float block case 704.

The base of the float box 708 has a ballast tank 740, positioned thereon, to maintain the position of the float pump device 700 with respect to the body of water 734. The base of the float box 708 is still connected to a pipe. flow 742 and

٠

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 allows flow line 742 to flow into the base of floating housing 708.

The piston housing 706 has a series of piston stops 744, disposed at a lower end and in the piston housing 706, to limit the axial movement of the piston 718 in the piston housing 706. The piston housing 706 is again. adapted to allow axial movement by sliding the piston 718 in the piston housing 706.

The ballast cap 712 can be used to further stabilize the floating pump device 700 relative to the body of water 734 by having a predetermined ballast or variable ballast in the ballast cap 712.

The floating block 714, which may be adjustable as described above, is adapted to slide axially within the housing, limited by a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water, in which the pump device float 700 is place and hydraulic or pneumatic characteristics of the float pump device 700 itself.

The piston shaft 716 is preferably rigid and maintains a fixed relationship between the piston 718 and the floating block 714. The piston 718 is exposed to water on its lower end because of the open end of the piston housing. 706 disposed towards the floating block 714. The piston 718 preferably has a seal (not shown), disposed around the perimeter of the piston 718, which prevents leakage or oozing from the piston chamber 719 in the area near the piston. In this way, the piston chamber is kept free from the external environment and provides a secure location.

29151Β1 ٩ ه 1١

<img file="MA29151B1_D0018.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 effective for gas or liquid pumps in a pressure relation.

The inlet and outlet valves 720, 722 are one-way flow devices, which allow gas or liquid to flow into and out of the piston chamber 719, respectively. It should be noted that the valves 720, 722 can be positioned at various locations on the piston housing cover 710, as long as a desired pressure is reached in the piston chamber 719.

The inlet line 724 is adapted to be connected to a desired gas or liquid and therefore provides a desired source of gas or liquid to be pumped by the floating pump device 700. The outlet line 726 is coupled to the line. flow line 742, which in turn directs the flow to a desired location.

In operation, as a wave approaches the float pump device 700, the float block 714, having a predetermined buoyancy, gradually rises relative to the wave. Piston 718 will move in direct relation to float block 714, thereby expelling gas or liquid from piston chamber 719 through outlet valve 722, outlet line 726, and flow line 742. As the wave leaves the floating pump device 700, the floating block 714, by gravity, descends relative to the wave. The piston 718, moving in direct relation to the descent of the floating block 714, descends in a similar manner, thus creating a vacuum in the piston chamber 719. Gas or liquid is drawn through the inlet line 724 and the valve. inlet 720 into the piston chamber 719, thus filling the piston chamber 719. The cycle continues to

٠

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 repeat in relation to the cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water and the hydraulic or pneumatic characteristics of the floating pump device 700 itself ٠

Referring now to Figure 8, a side elevational view of yet another embodiment of a floating pump device 800 is shown in accordance with the principles of the present invention. The floating pump device 800 includes a base 802, a housing 804 connected to the base 802, a housing cap 806, connected to the housing 804, and a housing base 808, coupled to the other end of the housing 804. A piston housing 810 is axially disposed at a position lower than the housing 804. The piston housing 810 includes a piston housing cap 812 and a piston housing base 814. A piston housing ballast portion 816 is connected to the piston housing. piston housing 810 through a lower part thereof.

A float block 818, having a predetermined buoyancy, is disposed in the housing 804. A piston shaft 820 is connected to a lower end of the float block 818 and extends axially therefrom. A piston 822 is connected to the other end of the piston shaft 820. The piston 822 is adapted to move axially within the piston housing 820. A piston chamber 824 is formed by the lower surface of the piston 822, the base of the piston housing 814, and the piston housing 810.

An inlet valve 826 is connected through the base of the piston housing 814 and in communication with the piston chamber 824. Similarly, an outlet valve 824 is connected to the base of the piston housing 814 and in communication with the piston housing 814. piston chamber 824. One

٠

29151Β1

PCT / US2O05 / O45419 inlet line 830 and outlet line 832 are connected to the other respective ends of inlet valve 826 and outlet valve 828.

Base 802 includes support arms 834, extending and connecting to a support base 836. Support base 836 is adapted to rest against bottom 838 of water body 840. Ballast tanks 842 are connected to it. an upper surface of the support base 836 and are adapted to receive and / or expel the ballast and thus, maintain the position of the floating pump device 800 with respect to the body of water 840.

Housing 804 includes a series of housing arms 844, connected to the base of housing 808 at one end and to the housing cap 806 at the other end. Housing arms 844 allow water to pass freely therethrough.

A flow tank 846 is connected to the inlet line 830 and the outlet line 832, and is positioned on a surface of the housing base 808. The flow tank 846 is further connected to a supply line. 848 and a flow line 850. The flow reservoir 846 can control the flow to and from the piston chamber 842, and direct the outlet flow from the piston chamber 842 to a desired location through the flow line 850.

The buoyancy of buoyancy block 818 is adjustable as described above. The floating block 818 is adapted to slide axially within the housing 804, in a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water 840, in which the floating pump device 800 is located, and to the characteristics.

٠

29151Β1

Hydraulic or pneumatic PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 of the 800 floating pump device itself.

The piston shaft 820 maintains the floating block 818 and the piston 822 and a fixed relationship, so that the movement of the floating block 818 matches the movement of the piston 822.

Housing 804 has a series of floating block stops 852, positioned on the inside of housing arms 844, to limit axial movement of the floating block therein. Similarly, piston housing 810 has a series of piston stops 854 on an inner surface of piston housing 810 adapted to limit axial movement of piston 822.

Inlet valve 826 and outlet valve 828 are one-way flow devices, which allow gas or liquid to flow into and out of piston chamber 824, respectively. Note that valves 826, 828 can be

<td colspan="2">positioned in different places</td><td>sure</td><td>the base</td><td>of</td>

<td>housing</td><td colspan="2">piston 814, as long as pressure</td><td>desired</td><td>is</td>

<td>reached</td><td>in the piston chamber 824.</td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td>In</td><td>operation, when a</td><td>wave</td><td>having</td><td>of</td>

predetermined characteristics approach the floating pump device 800, the floating block 818 and the piston 822 gradually rise. A vacuum is created in piston chamber 824 which draws gas or liquid, depending on the power source connected to supply line 848, into piston chamber 824 through inlet line 830 and inlet valve 826. As the wave leaves the floating pump device 800, gravity causes the axially floating piston to descend, which compresses the gas or liquid in the piston chamber824 and expels or expels

29151Β1

<img file="MA29151B1_D0019.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 gas or liquid from piston chamber 824 through outlet valve 828, outlet line 832, flow tank 846, and flow line

850.

Referring now to Fig. 9, a side elevational view of another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device 900 is shown. The floating pump device 900 includes a base 902, a housing 904 connects to the base 902, a housing cap 906, and a housing base.

908. A housing ballast portion 909 is disposed axially above the housing cap 906.

A metallized piston 910 is disposed in the housing 904 and is adapted to move axially in the housing 904. Positioned outside of the housing 904 and adjacent to the ends of the piston 910 are a series of magnetized floating blocks 912, having a predetermined buoyancy. The magnetized floating blocks 912 are positioned near the metallized piston 20 910, so that the movement of the floating block magnetizes

912 corresponds to the movement of the metallized piston 910 in the housing 904. A guide rail 911 is provided on the housing 904 to guide the movement of the magnetized floating block 912 in relation to the metallized piston 910.

The piston chambers 913a, 913b are defined on opposite sides of the piston 910. A non-metallic seal 915 may be placed on and couple to the outer surface of the metalized piston 910 between the metalized piston 910 and the housing 904, to prevent! fluid or liquid flow between the piston chambers 913a, 913b.

A first inlet valve 914 and a first outlet valve 916 are connected through the housing cap 906 to the piston chamber 913a. The first one

29151Β1

PCT / US2005 / 045419 inlet valve 914 and the first outlet valve 916 are connected by the housing ballast portion 909 to a first inlet line 918 and a first outlet line 920, respectively.

A second inlet valve 922 and a second outlet valve 924 are connected at one end, through the housing base 908 to the piston chamber 913b. The second inlet valve 922 and the second outlet valve 924 are connected at the respective other ends, to a second inlet line 926 and a second outlet line 928.

Base 902 includes a series of support arms 930, coupled at one end to housing 904 and at the other end to support base 932. Support base 932 is adapted to rest on a bottom 934 of a plane. water 936, in which the floating pump device 900 is disposed.

The housing 904 includes a series of stops 938 on its outer face, which are adapted to limit the axial movement of the magnetized floating blocks 912. The outlet lines 920, 928 are connected to a flow line 940 for the transmission of water. flow therein to a desired location.

The magnetized floating blocks 912 move in a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water, in which the floating pump device 900 is placed, and the hydraulic or pneumatic characteristics of the floating pump device 900 itself. The buoyancy of the magnetized floating blocks 912 can be adjusted by filling the magnetized floating blocks 912 with a predetermined fluid or solid, or expelling from the magnetized floating blocks 912 the predetermined fluid or solid.

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Inlet valves 914, 922 and outlet valves 916, 924 are one-way flow devices, which allow gas or liquid to flow into and out of piston chambers 913a, 913b. For example, the first inlet valve 914 allows flow into piston chamber 913a and the first outlet valve 916 allows flow out of piston chamber 913a ، The second inlet valve 922 and the second valve outlet 924 allow flow into and out of piston chamber 913b. Note that the first inlet valve 914 and the first outlet valve 916 can be positioned at different locations on the housing cover 906. Similarly, the second inlet valve 922 and the second outlet valve 924 can be positioned at different locations on the base of the housing 908, as long as a desired pressure is reached in the piston chambers 913a, 913b.

In operation, when a wave of the body of water 946 leaves the floating pump device 900, the magnetized floating blocks 912 gradually descend by gravity, thereby magnetically lowering the metallized piston 910 to create a vacuum in the piston chamber 913a. At the same time, the fall of the magnetized floating blocks 912 and the piston 910 compresses the gas or liquid in the piston chamber 913b. Gas or liquid is forced into or out of it through the second outlet valve 924, the second outlet line 928 and into the flow line 940. In the piston chamber 913a, the vacuum draws the gas or liquid through the outlet. first inlet line 918, the first inlet valve 914, and into the piston chamber 913a.

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

As the next wave approaches, the magnetized floating blocks 912 and the metallized piston 910 gradually rise in magnetic relation to the flowing water 936, thereby pressurizing the gas or liquid in the piston chamber 913a and expelling the gas or liquid. through the first outlet valve 916 and the first outlet line 920 into the flow line 940. The piston chamber 913b becomes under vacuum, thereby drawing gas or liquid through the second inlet line 926, the second inlet valve 922 and into the piston chamber 913b. The process is repeated cyclically with each successive wave.

If the pressure in one of the outlet valves 916, 924 were to inhibit the movement of the metallized piston 910, the magnetized floating blocks 912 will separate from the metallized piston 910 to move relative to the wave, and re-engage the metallized piston 910 when of the next wave cycle.

Referring now to Fig. 10, another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump device 1000 is shown according to the principles of

<td>present</td><td colspan="2">invention.</td><td colspan="2">The device</td><td>pump</td><td colspan="2">floating 1000</td>

<td>includes</td><td>a</td><td>based</td><td>1002, a</td><td>housing</td><td> 1004</td><td>connected to</td><td>the</td>

<td colspan="2">base 1002,</td><td colspan="2">a headdress of</td><td>housing</td><td> 1006</td><td>connected</td><td>at</td>

<td>housing</td><td> 1004</td><td>and an</td><td>base of</td><td>housing</td><td> 1008.</td><td>A cylinder</td><td>of</td>

piston 1010 is disposed in housing 1004 and includes a piston cylinder cover 1012, and a piston cylinder ballast portion 1014 connected to piston cylinder 1010 and disposed below piston cylinder cover 1012. A piston 1016 is fitted. to move axially in the piston cylinder 1010. A floating block 1018 is positioned axially with the housing 1004, above the piston cylinder 1010 and is fitted

IW \

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 to move axially within housing 1004. A series of piston shafts 1020 extend from a lower surface of piston 1016 and are connected to the side surfaces of float block 1018.

An inlet valve 1022 and an outlet valve 1024 are connected by the piston cylinder cover 1012 to a piston chamber 1026, formed by the pison cylinder cover 1012, the piston cylinder 1010 and the upper surface of the piston. 1016. An inlet line 1028 and an outlet line 1030 are connected to the inlet valve 1022 and the outlet valve 1024, respectively. Inlet line 1028 and outlet line 1030 extend through the ballast portion of piston cylinder 1014.

Base 1002 includes support arms 1032, connected to a lower portion of housing 1004 at one end and at the other end to support base 1034. Support base 1034 is adapted to rest on a bottom 1036 of. a body of water 1038. A ballast tank is connected to an upper portion of the support base 1034 to hold the floating pump device 10 in a fixed position relative to the body of water 1038.

Housing 1004 includes a series of housing arms 1042, which are adapted to flow through them. The housing arms 1042 are connected to the housing base 1008. The housing 1004 further includes a series of stops 1045, formed on an inner surface of the housing arms 1042, to limit the axial movement of the floating block 1018.

Connects to the outlet line, is a flow tank 1046, which is connected to the housing base 1008. The flow tank 1046 is

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<img file="MA29151B1_D0020.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 adapted to direct the received flow from the outlet line 1030 and feed the flow from the outlet line 1040 to the flow line 1048.

Piston cylinder 1010 is open on

The end opposite the cap of the piston cylinder 1012, so that water can contact the undersurface of the piston 1016. A seal (not shown) is provided around the perimeter of the piston 1016 to prevent communication between. the piston chamber 10 1026 and the body of water 1038.

Piston 1016, which is adjustable as described above, can slide axially within piston cylinder 1010. Because piston 1016 and floating block 1018 are connected via piston shaft 1020, the floating block movement

1018 corresponds directly to the movement of piston 1016.

The floating block 1018 has a predetermined buoyancy, so that the floating block 1018 moves in a cycle conforming to the fluid dynamics of the water in which the floating pump device 1000 is placed. The buoyancy of the float block 1018 can be adjusted as described above, depending on the fluid dynamics characteristics of the water and the system.

Inlet and outlet valves 1022, 1024 are one-way flow devices, which allow gas or liquid to flow into and out of piston chamber 1026, respectively. It should be noted that valves 1022, 1024 can be positioned at various locations on the piston cylinder cover 1012, as long as a desired pressure is reached in piston chamber 1026.

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

In operation, after placing the 100O floating pump device in a body of water, such as an ocean, lake, river, or other wave-producing environment, the initial pressure in the outlet line 1030, valve 1024 and the piston chamber 1026 starts at a zero pressure state. The wave, having recognized properties, arrives at the floating pump device 1000. The water in the wave gradually raises the float block 1018, thereby causing the float block 1018 and a piston 1016 to rise. The gas or liquid, which has been introduced into the piston chamber 1026, begins to pressurize until the pressure in the piston chamber 1026 exceeds the line pressure in the outlet line 1030. At this time, the gas or liquid flows into outlet valve 1024 and outlet line 1030 and is transferred through flow line 1048 to a desired location for use or storage.

As the wave leaves the floating pump device 1000, gravity causes the floating block 1018 to descend, resulting in a corresponding downward axial movement of the piston 1016 in the piston cylinder 1010. A vacuum is created in the piston chamber 1026, which attracts gas or liquid through inlet line 1028, inlet valve 1022 and into piston chamber 1026. The cycle is repeated with each successive wave.

Referring now to Figure 11, there is shown exemplary side views of the floating pump device 100 of Figure 1, coupled to an exemplary aquaculture facility 1100. In this configuration, the aquaculture facility 1100 comprises a series of ballast tanks 1110, arranged r 29151Β1

69 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 concentric around and connected to the floating pump device 100. The 1110 ballast tanks are further connected to the adjacent 1110 ballast tanks by a series of guy wires 1120. The 1110 ballast tank series may vary in level. length or width to stabilize the floating pump device 100 with respect to waves arriving from a body of water 1130, in which the floating pump device 100 is positioned.

The floating pump device may be of modular construction to allow the floating pump device to be portable. A portable floating pump device can be built at one location, dismantled, and installed at another location. The portability of the floating pump device can be distinguished from other hydroelectric generation systems, which are not portable, such as water flow turbines, permanently built in one location. In addition, a group or array of portable floating pump devices can be moved to provide power to different land or sea applications (subject to change in power demand). For example, a group of one or more floating pump devices may be deployed to an offshore location to support a military base deployed to a new region for an unknown period, which is relocated to another region subsequently. A group of floating pump devices can be deployed substantially anywhere, having a sufficient source of wave power with waves that meet specifications for the floating pump devices.

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70 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Figures 12Α show an exemplary floating chamber ring 1200, which can be used as a component to construct an exemplary structure, as shown in Figure 12Β, and formed of several floating chamber rings 1200, to function in a manner substantially similar to the floating cylinder. 104 (see figure 1) of a floating pump device. The floating pump device using the floating chamber ring 1200 is modular in structure.

The floating chamber ring 1200 includes an outer ring 1202 and an inner ring 1204. The outer and inner rings 1202 and 1204 are concentric and may be coupled by a number of spacers forming pairs 12O6a-12O6d (collectively 1206). The pairs of spacers 1206 can be configured in parallel and be placed symmetrically about the X and y axes. The pairs of spacers 1026 provide structural support for the outer and inner rings 1202 and 1204. Other configurations of structure and / or geometry can be used to provide structural support for the outer and inner rings 1202 and 1204. For example, a span configuration of the spacers between the outer and inner rings 1202 and 1204 can be used.

Guide ring cylinders 1210 can be located centrally between the pairs of spacers 1206 and are coupled to each of the outer and inner rings 1202 and 1204. The guide ring cylinders 1210 can be used to position and support! floating chamber ring 1200 on stilts 1216 (as discussed below with Figure 12Β). Each component of the floating chamber ring 1200 can be made of steel and / or materials, such as fiberglass.

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 glass or plastic material, which are resistant to environmental conditions which are present in the ocean or other environment.

Figure 12Β is a perspective view taken along a cross section of the floating chamber 104 (see also Figure 1) for an exemplary floating pump device 1212, which uses the floating chamber ring 1200 shown in Figure 12Α. The floating chamber 104 is formed by engaging a series of floating chamber rings 1200, axially on eight piles or mats 1216, which can be mounted on a base (not shown) residing on and extending vertically from the bottom of the chamber. 'a body of water. Depending on the depth of the body of water, each pile 1216 can be made up of several segments. As shown, the pilings 1216 may be extended by guide ring cylinders 1210 positioned radially around the floating chamber ring 1200.

The tubular wedges 1218 extending vertically from the base of the floating pump assembly 1212 may be coupled to the inner ring 1204 in alignment with each of the spacers of the pairs of spacers 1206. The tubular wedges 1218 are used as guides for a block. floating 1220 (shown in part). Floating block 1220 may include or be coupled to floating ring 1222. The floating ring 1222 can engage or be guided by the tubular wedges 1218 to maintain the alignment of the floating block 1220 as it moves up and down in the floating chamber 104. Due to the modular design, the floating pump assembly 1212 can be built and separated for relocation objects.

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<img file="MA29151B1_D0021.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

Figure 12C is another embodiment of the 'floating chamber ring 1200', configured as a cap for the floating chamber 104. The floating chamber ring 1200 'can be further configured to position a piston chamber. 1224. Positioning spacers 1226 may be substantially aligned with pairs of spacers 1206 to form a rectangular region 1228 around a center point of the outer and inner rings 1202 and 1204. A rectangular guide block 1230 can be positioned in rectangular region 1228 and couples to positional spacers 1226. Rectangular guide block 1230 can include an opening 1232, adapted to insert piston chamber 1224 therein and hold piston chamber therein. Piston 1214 with connecting members (not shown). It should be understood that the opening 1232 may have other shapes and sizes depending on the shape and size of the structural components (eg, piston chamber 1224), supported and aligned by the ring of. floating chamber 1200 '.

Figure 13 is a drawing of a system 1300 for dynamic determination and / or size adjustment of a floating block, based on wave data, such a system showing an image 1301 of the block diagram. Floating example 1302, shown on a monitor 1303 of a computer system 1304. The computer system 1304 includes a processor 1306, which may be operated to run software 1308. The software 1308 is used to calculate the dimensions and / or the operating model of the floating block 1302, based on the historical wave data for a location in a body of water, where a monitoring device is to be positioned.

ΜΑ 29151Β1

<img file="MA29151B1_D0022.tif" />

PCT / US2O05 / 045419 float pump using float block 1302. Software 1308 can be in the form of lines of codes or containing formulas in a sheet, for example. Software 1308 includes an algorithm, which presents input parameters for historical wave data and output mechanical specifications and system functional data.

Computer system 1304 further includes memory 1310, coupled to processor 1306. The memory can be used to store program 1308 and the data thus produced. An input / output (1/0) device 1312 is coupled to the processor and used to receive and transmit data into or out of the computer system 1304. A storage unit 1314 and 15 in communication with the processor 1306 and may function to store a 1316 database. Database 1316 may store historical wave data and other data relating to the configuration of one or more floating pump devices to be deployed. In one embodiment, datastore 1316 is a data file containing data associated with floating block 1302.

Computer system 1304 may be in communication with network 1318 through communication interfaces 1320. In one embodiment, network 1318 is the internet. Alternatively, the 1318 network can be a satellite communication system. The historical wave data server 1322, which maintains a database 1324 or other data file containing wave data collected by beacons from various locations in the water body around the world as understood in the art. Wave 1322 data server is communicating with the network

<img file="MA29151B1_D0023.tif" />

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

1318 via a communications interface 1326, so that the computer system 1304 can access or search the wave data stored in the data bank 1324. Wave data, which is set and collected from wave data server 1322 by computer system 1304 can be incorporated manually, semi-automatically, or automatically into database 1316 and used by software 1308 to generate reports. dimensions and / or model of the floating block 1302.

Image 1301 of floating block 1302 may further include a series of data fields for receiving input parameters and / or displaying calculated results in display fields for designing floating block 1302. A floating block designer 1302 can use the input parameters to enter information associated with specific and typical historical wave movements over a period of time. Alternatively, the input parameters can be read from data files stored in storage unit 1314, on wave data server 132, or elsewhere, and displayed in picture 1301.

In designing the floating block 1302, considerations of installation location and installation time must be taken into account. For example, if a floating pump device is to be installed in a particular location for a certain period, such as three months, the designer can enter the historical wave, low, peak and average movement, for those particular months at! ' particular location for the design of floating block 1302. if the floating pump is to be installed more permanently, then the historical wave movement.

<img file="MA29151B1_D0024.tif" />

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 low, peak, and medium may be entered over a longer period of time, such as five years, to determine the dimensions of floating block 1302.

Image 1301 may include input and output fields, including tables, grids, graphical images, or other visual representation, to aid the designer of the floating pump device. During the design phase of the floating pump device, the designer can perform a design process, such as that discussed with respect to Examples A and B, Tables 1-4 and Figures 3A-3F and 4D. When performing the design process, Example A (Small Wave Size), Example B (Average Wave Size), and Table 1 give examples of using historical wave data to calculate dimensions. different components (eg floating block) and system parameters (eg horsepower). Dimensions, such as floating block volume (BBv), cone volume (VC), base volume (VB), and other dimensions can be calculated based on historical wave data. Table 2, which describes floating block diameters as a function of wave height (Wh), can be used to determine system dimensions and parameters.

The results given in picture 1301 may be displayed graphically in association with features and dimensions given in Figures 3A-3F and 4٥, for example. It should be understood that more simple or detailed graphical images of the elements of the floating pump device can be calculated and shown in Picture 1301. The input data shown in Table 3 (One Year Wave Averages) and Table 4 showing the monthly average of

<img file="MA29151B1_D0025.tif" />

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 wave information can be entered into computer system 1300 for the design of components of the floating pump device, based on location and duration of deployment.

Continuing with Figure 13, the display fields are used to show the results of calculations produced by software 1308, performed by system 1304. The results represented in the display fields may include a series of mechanical specifications for the block. floating 1301, including the height (hl) of the base (see figure 4D), the diameter (di) of the base, a height (h2) of the cone and other dimensions. In addition, other dimensions of the components of the floating pump device can be calculated, such as the dimensions of the piston. The display fields can also include parameters that affect operating specifications, such as the available stroke length and the rise travel time, and the rise pressure, which is an amount of upward pressure developed by the block. floating 1301 depending on the wave parameters (eg height and length).

Floating pump devices can also be adjusted to serve the demand of a specific region. For example, a predetermined number of the floating pump devices can be initially installed to serve the demand of an existing region or part of a region, and then supplemented with additional floating pump devices to serve the region as it expands. or the remaining part of the original region. The region may have only low energy demand, requiring only 200 floating pump devices, for example, or requiring large demand

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 power, which will require several square miles of floating pump arrangements comparable to what is provided by a dam. Therefore, the floating pump devices can be tailored and are adaptable to the energy demands existing for a particular region to be served.

Referring again to Figure 14, an elevational view of one embodiment of an exemplary floating pump power generating system 1400, which utilizes a water tower is shown. A group 1405 of one or more floating pump devices 1410 is distributed along the bottom 1415 of a body of water 1420 in a predetermined pattern. The 1405 group of 1410 floating pump devices can be configured into a grid, assembly, or other distribution to accommodate each 1410 floating pump device in wave motion with little or no effect from other pump devices. floating 1410.

The outlet lines 1425 from the floating pump devices 1410 may extend along the bottom 1415 to a short 1430, which supports a water tower 1435. The outlet lines 1425 function as water supplies that deliver water. water at or near the top of the water tower 1435.

The water tower 1435 functions as a reservoir for pumped water, to operate one or more turbines 1439 disposed in a turbine room 1440, at or near the bottom of the water tower 1435. It should be understood that the turbine part 1440 can be incorporated in, be adjacent to or close to the water tower 1435, so as to receive the water stored in the water tower 1435 depending on the gravity for

<img file="MA29151B1_D0026.tif" />

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 generate electrical energy by flowing water through turbines 1439. Water passing through turbines 1439 can be returned to the water body via a discharge outlet from turbines 1440. In Alternatively, the water can be discharged for distribution to other uses, such as irrigation or desalination to convert it to potable water, for example.

Power lines 1445 can be coupled to turbines 1439 for distribution of the electrical power generated by the turbines to sector 1450, to which power lines 1445 are coupled. It is envisioned that pumps which are supplied with power by techniques other than through the use of flotation principles can be used to supply water to water tower 1435 in accordance with the principles of the present invention. For example, pumps which generate power by rotary means and / or wind power can be used to supply water to water tower 1435.

Fig. 15 is an elevational view of another embodiment of an exemplary floating pump power generation system 1500. The same or similar configuration of a group 1505 of one or more devices. floating pump 1510 on the bottom 1515 of a body of water 1520 shown in Figure 14, can be established. The 1505 group of floating pump devices 1510 can be configured into a grid, assembly, or other distribution to accommodate each 1510 floating pump device for receiving wave motion with little or no effect from other devices. floating pump 1510.

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<img file="MA29151B1_D0027.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

The outlet lines 1525 from the floating pump devices 1510 may extend along the bottom 1515 to a drop 1530, which supports one or more tanks 1535 on a drop top 1540. Alternatively, the tanks 1535 can be built into the 1540 ridge top as underground basins. Outlet lines 1525 function as water supplies, which deliver water to or near the top of reservoir 1535. In one embodiment, the reservoir or reservoirs 1535 can be shaped to lead to secondary uses. One such secondary use is a fish incubator. Reservoir 1535 functions to store the water pumped from the float pump devices 1510 to operate one or more turbines 1540, located in a turbine room 1545, located at or near the bottom of the spike 1530 to provide a maximum pressure of the water to be applied to the turbine (s) 1540 as a function of gravity. Alternatively, the turbine part 1545 can be located at other locations as long as it is lower than the reservoir and capable of driving the turbines 1540. As well understood in the art, different turbines operate with different pressures of 1 '. water, so that the height of the sheer and / or the distance of the turbines below the reservoir 1535 may depend on the type of turbine used. The electricity generated by the 1540 turbines can be sent to the 1550 power lines for distribution to the 1555 sector.

Figure 16 is an illustration of another exemplary configuration of the float pump devices 1602, located in a body of water 1604 to convert wave energy into mechanical energy. The

MY

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 Floating pump devices 1602 are configured to drive gas, such as air, through the outlet lines 1606 in response to the floating blocks (not shown) of the floating pump devices 1602, moved by waves. A tank 1608 may be located on the top of a shore 1610 or in the basement of shore 1610, where gas can be compressed and does not have to be raised to drive a turbine 1612 present in a turbine room 1614. Turbine 1612 can be connected to reservoir 1608 via inlet lines 1616 to receive compressed gas to drive turbine 1612. The turbine is connected to power lines 1618 to distribute electricity generated by turbine 1612 to a power plant. energy 1620 or some other drain, such as a factory.

Figure 17Α is an illustration of an exemplary pump field 1700, which includes floating pump devices 1702, configured to drive fluid to reservoir 1704 in response to waves 1706 in an ocean 1708. Pump field 1700 is configured. such as a grid of floating pump devices 1702 comprising rows 1710 and columns 1712 of plots 1713 for the floating pump devices 1702 to be disposed. An empty trace on a column separates or spaces two floating pump devices 1702 in each row. Similarly, an empty trace along a row separates two float pump devices 1702 along each column. By separating or spacing the floating pump devices 1702 as shown, a wave which passes in a first column C1 and between two floating pump devices 1714a and 1714b, reforms before a floating pump device 1714c in a second column C2 and along of the

ΜΑ 29151Β1

PCT / US2O05 / O45419 row r, perpendicularly between the rows ret ris, the two floating pump devices 1714a and 1714b, which allows the floating pump device 1714c in the second column C2 to receive substantially the same wave energy as that saturated by the floating pump devices 1714a and 1714b in the first column C1. The separation of the floating pump devices 1702 further helps to minimize the amount of energy which is drained by each wave. By minimizing the amount of energy, which is drained by the wave, each floating pump device 1702 located in the pump field 1700 is powered substantially equally. It should be understood that other configurations of the float pump devices 1702, which provide the same minimal alteration or similar alteration of the wave, to give maximum wave energy to each pump, may be used. Using the 1700 pump field configuration of Figure 17, the 1714 field receives each wave in much the same way if the 1700 pump field was not facing the 1714 field. The 1700 pump field configuration, therefore, is an ecological solution for generating energy from waves.

Fig. 17Β is an enlarged view of the configuration of the floating pump devices 1702, including the floating pump devices I714a-I714c. The outlet lines 1718a and 1718b of the float pump devices 1714a and 1714b, respectively, are configured to extend from each float pump device 1714a and 1714b along a first column C1 to row r, containing the pump device. floating pump 1714c. The 1718a and

ΜΑ 29151Β1

<img file="MA29151B1_D0028.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

1718b are coupled to another outlet pipe 1718c, which extends along row r towards the pallet (1716). Thus, an outlet line (not shown) from the floating pump 1714c can connect the outlet line 1718c. In addition, the outlet lines of other floating pumps 1702, located in rows rr can be connected to the outlet line 1718c to deliver the fluid material (i.e. liquid or gas) expelled from the floating pump devices 1702 to 10. a reservoir (not shown), located on the ground or elsewhere. It should be understood that other configurations of the outlet lines may be used for the fluid material to be delivered to the reservoir.

The other configurations may be of different structure or geometry. For example, rather than connecting the outlet lines 1718a and 1718b to a single outlet line 1718c, each outlet line 1717a and 1718b can remain separate from each other.

Continuing with Figure 17Β, exemplary configuration dimensions are shown for the pump rack. Each 1702 floating pump device has a base dimension of 47.3 square feet. A separation distance of 15.8 feet between each row (eg, rows ri and r of the floating pump devices 1702 is used.

With further reference to Figure 17Α, the reservoir 1704 located on top of a drop 1718, receives the water pumped from the floating pump devices 1702 via outlet pipes 1720. The water can be stored in the reservoir 1704 and flowed through the outlet supply lines 1722 to the turbines (not shown) located in a turbine construction 1724. The water can be discharged back into

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

<img file="MA29151B1_D0029.tif" />

Ocean 1708 via discharge lines 1726. In another embodiment, the reservoir can be located above a body of water, such as on a boat or a drilling rig.

It should be noted that the floating pump system can be designed to completely absorb almost all of the potential energy of a wave and use that energy in the manner described and presented here. Alternatively, the floating pump system can be designed to absorb a portion (eg, 50%) of the potential energy of a wave. These designs may use the grid or other arrangement of the pump field, but include the floating pump devices in some or all of the empty traces based on the arrangement.

Referring to Figure 18, a float pump system 1811 in accordance with the principles of the present invention, includes at least one float pump 1813, having a float block 1815, which moves in response to wave motion. Float block 1815 pumps functional fluid, preferably using a piston and piston shaft similar to the systems described above. The functional fluid, preferably water, is pumped from the sea at the location of the floating pump 1813 to a low tank 1821 or a high tank 1823. Preferably the tanks are located on land, but can be located. laid out offshore on an existing or new platform. The low tank 1821 is designed to receive pumped water during normal operating conditions of the float pump 1813. Normal operating conditions typically occur in the presence of normal wave sizes, or are those for which the

Ι ^ Α 29151Β1

84 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 pcb floating is first conch. When higher wave heights are present, the floating pump can take advantage of the larger wave heights to generate higher pressures in the working fluid, to pump the working fluid into the high reservoir 1823. To pump the functional fluid at the higher pressure (i.e., higher than normal operating conditions), the internal volume of the floating block must be increased by a process of "bending". The bending process involves increasing the height or diameter of the floating block by one of the processes described previously (see Figures 3D-3F). In the presence of larger waves, the increased volume of the floating block is able to increase the pressure imparted to the working fluid, while maintaining about the same flow rate as the flow produced during normal operating conditions. It is important to take advantage of the presence of larger wave heights because functional fluid, stored in a reservoir at a higher elevation (i.e., high reservoir 1823a) can be used to generate electricity more efficiently. This is mainly due to the fact that a turbine 1831, which is driven by the working fluid falling from the reservoir, operates more efficiently when driven by a high pressure, low flow fluid as opposed to a low pressure fluid, broadband. While the concept of using multiple reservoirs for the storage of functional fluid has been described above with reference to two reservoirs of different heights, those skilled in the art will recognize that the concept can be extended to multiple reservoirs, each. being designed to ideally receive the fluid

IgA 29151Β1

85 PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 functional when waves of a certain height are present and when the floating block is adjusted (via the curvature) to a particular volume.

Referring to Figure 19, a floating pump system 1911 in accordance with the principles of the present invention, includes at least one floating pump 1913, having a floating block 1915, which moves in response to wave motion. Due to the potential of large storms and hurricanes in areas where floating pumps are used, the floating pump may present the risk of being dislodged from the ocean floor if wave heights become excessively high.

To minimize this risk, the floating block 1915 includes an assist port 1917, which allows the floating block

1915 to be selectively flooded. When flooded, the float block will not exert any flotation forces on the piston or the remainder of the 1913 Floating Pump (or if partially flooded, it will exert less flotation force), which may prevent dislodgement of the floating pump from the ocean floor. The assist port 1917 can be opened by a valve 1921 and a controller (not shown) as shown in figure 19. The signal to open valve 1921 can be provided manually, remotely, or automatically, in response to a sensor that measures wave height, my wave pressure adjacent to the floating block, and the buoyancy force exerted by the floating block. Rather than using a valve to open and close the 1917 assist port, the 1917 assist port can be sealed by a plug, which is housed in a stationary structure, such as the floating pump pillars or the bottom of! 'ocean. The binding may have a predetermined length so

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PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

<img file="MA29151B1_D0030.tif" />

that excessive movement of the float block in the float chamber (eg, in response to a large wave) will cause the plug to dislodge from the assist port 1917, thereby flooding the float block. In addition to the assist port 1917, the float pump 1913 may include a pressurized gas source 1931 to purge the float block after flood operations. The pressurized gas will displace the water in the float block, allowing the float pump to return to normal operation.

Floating pumps according to the principles of the present invention include floating blocks, which are designed primarily to "adjust" to the average wave lengths in the area in which the floating pump is operating. Preferably, the floating block is of such a size that it is large enough in relation to the wave length to produce flotation forces sufficient for pumping the functional fluid, but small enough to be able to capture the energy of the wave. wave in the absence of adjacent waves significantly reducing the process of capturing this energy. Preferably, the diameter of the floating block is greater than or equal to about 1/6 of the average wave length and less than or equal to about 1/2 of the average length. Although typically not preferred, the floating block can be designed so that the diameter of the floating block is as large as the average wave length.

It is also important to note that the floating block according to the principles of the present invention is preferably designed so that approximately 1/3 of the volume of the floating block remains above the water when the floating block reaches a maximum height when it is raised. floats on the

IWX 29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 medium wave. If the floating block becomes completely submerged during each upstroke, the block's ability to quickly follow the movement of the wave (and thus, pump functional fluid) will be significantly diminished. By leaving a significant portion of the floating block out of the water, the floating block quickly follows the movement of each wave and more efficiently pumps working fluid. Of course, the volume of the block floating on water will vary during the upstroke, and the precise volume out of water at the maximum point of the stroke may be greater or less than 1/3 of the total volume.

An exemplary float pump 2111 in accordance with the principles of the present invention is shown in Figures 20-39. All dimensions given in connection with these figures are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. An assembly view of the floating pump 2111 is shown in Figure 21, and the pump 2111 includes a floating block 2113 connected by a piston shaft 2115 to a piston 2117. Floating block 2111 reciprocates in response to the action of the wave to drive piston 2117 so that working fluid is drawn through inlet line 2121 and into piston chamber 2125 on the downstroke. piston 2117. During the upstroke of piston 2117, operating fluid is expelled from piston chamber 2125 and into an outlet line 2129.

With reference to figures 26 to 36, the piston shaft

2115 is illustrated in more detail. Piston shaft 2115 consists of a series of nested tubes 2141,

2143, 3142 connected at each end to a

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PCT / US2Q05 / 045419 2147 ball. Tube 2141 is the smallest diameter and fits into tube 2143, which in turn fits into tube 2145. Each of the tubes has internal threads on each end to accommodate by screwing the ball connection 2147. The ball connection 2147 comprises a stepped shaft 2149, composed of a minor part 2151, an intermediate part 2153 and a major part 2155. Major portion 2155 is rigidly attached to a ball end 2159. Each of minor 2151, middle portion 2153, and major portion 2155 includes an external thread. When the piston shaft 2115 is assembled, one of the ball fittings 2147 is attached to the tubes 2141, 2143, 2145 at each end so that the minor part 2155 engages the tube 2141, the middle part 2153 engages. in tube 2143 and the major part engages in tube 2145. Ball fittings 2147 help secure the tubes to each other and ensure that the loads imposed on the piston shaft 2115 are distributed over all of the individual tubes 2141, 2143, 2145. The ball end 2159 of ball connector 2147 is received by ball seal 2165. A first ball seal is connected to the float block, while a second ball seal is connected to the piston. The ball seal 2165 includes a cap portion 2167 having a semi-spherical recess 2169 to receive the ball end 2159. A locking portion 2175 of the ball seal 2165 is connected to the cap portion 2167 to secure the end. ball 2159 into ball seal 2165. Locking portion 2175 includes a passage 2177 having a partially spherical shoulder region 2179, adjacent to a taper region 2181. Spherical shoulder region 2179 serves

١ / μα 29151Β1

<img file="MA29151B1_D0031.tif" />

PCT / US2005 / 045419 to secure the ball end 2159 in the semispherical recess 2169. The taper region 2181 is bevelled outward as it extends from the spherical shoulder region 2179. The tapered region allows the piston shaft to rotate around ball end 2159 relative to ball seal 2165 so that slight angular movements of the floating block in the floating chamber do not impart torsional forces or forces. of bending at the piston shaft 2115. The primary angular motions of float block 2116 relative to ball seal guards 2165 are the angular motions about axes perpendicular to the reciprocating motion of float block 2113.

Referring to Figures 37-39 and Figure 27, the angular movements of the floating block 2113 described above are minimized by the presence of at least one sliding frame 2211 attached to the outer surface of the floating block 2113. The frame Sliding 2211 includes a guide passage 2215, which is oriented to receive a guide post 2217 positioned around the perimeter of the floating chamber. The sliding mount 2211 helps guide the floating block 2113 as it performs the reciprocating motion in the floating chamber. Preferably, the sliding frame 2211 is composed of two separate parts as illustrated in Figures 38 and 39, to facilitate installation. Preferably, the guide passage 2215 is coated with a polymeric material to reduce friction between the sliding frame 2211 and the guide post 2217.

With reference to figures 21 to 25, the floating pump

2111 is anchored using a series of pillars, which structurally support the various platforms, piston chamber, pipe and more.

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MY

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / 045419 Floating Pump 2111 systems. Preferably, the floating pump 2111 comprises eight pillars (perimeter pillars 2311), which are equally spaced from each other in a circular pattern, and an additional central pillar. 2313, locates in the center of the circular pattern. Since the length of the pillars is relatively large, and since the pillars are subjected to forces by the pumping operation, ocean currents, ocean tide, and wave action, a series of uprights 2315 are connected between each perimeter pillar 2311 and the central pillar 2313. Each of the uprights 2315 includes a sleeve 2317 at each end of the upright, and each sleeve receives a pillar. Preferably, each sleeve is coated with a polymer to prevent metal-to-metal contact between post 2315 and the pillars. In addition to preventing excessive movement of the pillars relative to each other (thus strengthening the pillars), the uprights 2315 add considerable weight to the floating pump 2111. The weight of the uprights 2315 greatly assists in anchoring the float pump 2111, which is especially important when a portable float pump such as the one shown in Figure 21 is used.

Referring now to Figures 40-44, a float pump 4011 in accordance with the principles of the present invention is illustrated. All dimensions shown in these figures are exemplary only and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims. The pump 4011 includes a floating block 4013 removably placed in a floating chamber 4014 and connected by an upper piston shaft 4015 to an upper piston 4017 and by a lower piston shaft 4025 to a lower piston 4027. The pump 4011

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ΜΑ 29151Β1

<img file="MA29151B1_D0032.tif" />

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 floating block 4013 performs reciprocating motion in response to wave action. As the float block 4013 rides on the wave, the lower piston 4027 rises, allowing functional fluid to flow through an inlet line 4031 and into the lower piston chamber 4033. As the float block 4013 falls in response to the motion of the wave, the lower piston 4027 is driven by the weight of the float block 4013 to expel the working fluid from the lower piston chamber 4033 into a transfer line 4039, then into the transfer line. upper piston chamber 4041. During this downstroke of the float block 4013, the upper piston 4017 moves downward, thereby allowing the working fluid in the transfer line 4039 to enter the upper piston chamber 4041.

As the floating block 4013 moves upward again, the upper piston 4017 is driven upward by the buoyancy force to expel the working fluid from the upper piston chamber 4041 into an outlet line 4045. A pressure relief valve. Control 4049 prevents the flow of functional fluid from the upper piston chamber 4041 to the transfer line 4039.

The ability of the float pump 4011 to pump functional fluid via positive pressure on the upstroke and downstroke of the float block 4013 allows efficient operation of the float pump 4011, especially when the wave conditions for a particular area require a large floating chamber 4014 and an upper piston chamber 4041. For floating pumps having only a single piston, the working fluid must be drawn (i.e., sucked) into the

١ / μα 29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419 piston chamber to fill the chamber. The piston in this type of system pulls the functional fluid into the piston chamber by exerting negative pressure on the functional fluid. Some pump designs may require an excessive amount of negative pressure to fill the piston chamber. This is usually caused by a very large floating chamber and / or a piston chamber elevated from the surface of the water, in which the floating pump operates. Large negative pressure can cause foaming or boiling of the working fluid, which significantly decreases the ability of the floating pump to fill the piston chamber.

For the 4011 float pump shown in Figures 40-44, the preferred operating fluid is water, and the size and location of the piston chamber may require a 60 foot suction head to fill the piston chamber, which will cause the water to foam or boil. To prevent boiling, the float pump 4011 of the present invention uses positive pressure to push functional fluid into upper piston chamber 4041, as opposed to using negative pressure to pull functional fluid into the chamber. upper piston 4041. Positive pressure is generated by the downstroke of lower piston 4027, which is driven by the weight of float block 4013. For this reason, the float block 4013 can be designed to be heavier than a float block which is only connected to a single piston. Of course, if the floating block 4013 is heavier, it is also advantageous to increase the displacement volume of the floating block

<img file="MA29151B1_D0033.tif" />

MY

29151Β1

PCT / US2OO5 / O45419

4013 to support the extra weight as the water rises.

The upper and lower piston shafts 4015, 4025 comprise a series of nested tubes connected at each end by a ball connector 4057. Each tube has final threads on each end to screw-in the ball connector 4057. The ball connector 4057 comprises a multi-storey tree, consisting of a minor part, an intermediate part and a major part. The major part is rigidly attached to a 4059 ball end. Each of the minor part, middle part and major part has an external thread. When the piston shaft 4015, 4025 is assembled, one of the ball connectors 4057 is attached to the tubes at each end so that the minor part, the middle part and the major part engage in one of the tubes. Ball fittings 4057 help secure the tubes to one another and ensure that the loads imposed on the piston shaft 4015, 4025 are distributed over all individual tubes. Ball end 4059 of ball fitting 4057 is received by ball seal 4065. Ball seals 4065 are connected to each of the upper and lower surfaces of the float block 4013, and ball seals 4065 are connected to each of the upper and lower pistons 4017, 4025. The ball seal 4065 includes a semi-spherical recess for receiving the ball end 4059. A locking portion of the ball seal 4065 is arranged to secure the ball end 4059 in the ball seal 4065. The configuration of the ball seal allows the piston shaft 4015 to rotate around the ball end 4059 relative to the ball seal 4065, so that

<img file="MA29151B1_D0034.tif" />

MY

29151Β1

PCT / US20O5 / O45419 Slight angular movements of the floating block in the floating chamber do not impart torsional or bending forces to the piston shaft 4015. The primary angular movements of the floating block 4013 relative to the ball seal guards 4065 are the angular movements around the axes perpendicular to the back and forth movement of the floating block 4013.

Angular movements of the float block 4013, described above, are minimized by the presence of at least one slide mount 4111 attached to the outer surface of the float block 4013. The slide mount 4111 includes a guide passage, which is oriented to receive a guide post 4117 positioned around the perimeter of the floating chamber. Slide mount 4111 helps guide float block 4013 as it reciprocates in float chamber 4014. Preferably, the guide passage is coated with a polymeric material to reduce the friction between the sliding frame 4111 and the guide post 4117. Angular movements of the floating block 4013 are further minimized by the presence of the upper and lower piston shafts. 4015, 4025.

The float pump 4011 is anchored using a series of pillars, which structurally support the various platforms, piston chamber, pipe, and other systems of the float pump 4011. Preferably, the float pump 4011 comprises eight pillars (perimeter pillars 4211), which are also spaced apart in a circular pattern, and an additional central pillar 4213, located in the center of the circular pattern. Since the length of the pillars is relatively large, and since the pillars are subjected to forces by the pumping operation, the currents of

<img file="MA29151B1_D0035.tif" />

MY

29151Β1

PCT / US20Q5 / 045419 For ocean, ocean tide and wave action, a series of posts 4215 are connected between each perimeter pillar 4211 and center pillar 4213. Each of the posts 4215 includes a sleeve 4217 to. each end of the upright, and each sleeve receives a pillar. Preferably, each sleeve is coated with a polymer to prevent metal-to-metal contact between post 4215 and the pillars. In addition to preventing excessive movement of the pillars relative to each other (thus strengthening the pillars), the 4215 uprights add considerable weight to the 4011 floating pump. The weight of the 4215 uprights greatly assists in anchoring the floating pump. 4011, which is especially important when a portable floating pump is used.

The foregoing description is of preferred embodiments for carrying out the invention, and the scope of the invention need not necessarily be limited by this description. Rather, the scope of the present invention is defined by the following claims.