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Perhaps the most unique portion of the technology is the platform. Although it's a floating platform, its design allows it to remain almost perfectly motionless - even in fully developed (rough) seas. This is crucial, as work is only performed when movement occurs between at least two associated/connected objects. If a float connected to a platform were raised by a wave, no work would be done if the platform was likewise raised by the wave. In this scenario, little or none of the energy in the rising wave is converted. However, if the platform was fixed in place - like the pilings of a pier - then the amount of energy converted by a float would be equal to the amount of water it displaces, multiplied by the height which it is raised by the wave. Unfortunately for fixed platforms (like piers), they are only practical in shallow waters because their pilings must extend to the sea floor. Our floating platforms can be placed almost anywhere - in deep waters and/or far from shore. |