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The Propagating Wave Turbine is a novel energy harvesting system that utilises tidal power in an efficient, eco-friendly manner.
About
About the Technology The Propagating Wave Turbine is a novel energy harvesting system that utilizes tidal power in an efficient, eco-friendly manner. It is particularly well suited to areas with low flow speeds and can be adapted to work in inland bodies of water as well as offshore tidal streams. The Propagating Wave Turbine is a biomimetic mechanism based upon ribbon fins common to several species of eel. In our technology, the motion of the fin is used to capture energy instead of expend energy for propulsion. The construction of the synthetic ribbon fin can take numerous forms, such as neoprene and acrylic plates attached between rigid masts, or sections of semi-rigid material cut to a desired geometry. The masts actuate a four-bar linkage, which includes custom-made eccentric cams, via a rocker mechanism. The device is housed within a sheet material frame. When the Propagating Wave Turbine’s fin is submerged in a flowing stream of water, the current is slowed by the fin, and energy is transferred through the four-bar linkage to an output shaft. With the current prototype the resulting shaft rotation can produce a power output of up to 3.6 W with an average of 11% efficiency – a competitive figure when compared to conventional turbines at this stage of development. Furthermore, the Propagating Wave Turbine is capable of capturing energy through three-dimensional swept volumes rather than the two-dimensional swept areas common to conventional turbines, thus increasing its potential to capture a higher fraction of available energy. Features - Biomimetic design - Custom-created parts increase efficiency and reduce friction, improving overall performance - Durable, yet flexible fin with customizable construction and geometry - Scalable design allows for the Propagating Wave Turbine to be used in different bodies of Benefits - Eco-friendly - limits hazards to wildlife - Extracts power without blocking current - Inexpensive components - Can capture energy through three-dimensional swept volumes