The wave energy conversion device, which has a patent pending, is based on the same concept as similar devices already being deployed in several European countries, although it is simpler and adapted to the specific characteristics of the Argentine coastline. Its designers, the device announce that it incorporates cheaper materials to bring production costs down. The design basically involves a floating buoy anchored to the seabed, which moves up and down with the waves without the use of electrical, electronic or hydraulic parts.
Putting
Themtham explains that, “we are aware of the energy crisis faced by the world and believe that the device we have developed is an interesting alternative for generating renewable energy. It is different to the solutions already existing in our country (wind and solar) and could help position
The engineers have conducted lab tests using scale models showing that the system works. “The scale model generated 6 V of electricity with waves of 20 cm (in tests performed in a vacuum and using a wave simulator we purpose built). The model is much smaller than what we propose to develop commercially, although it was possible to obtain generator speeds of 630 rpm, with the buoy only moving up and down 5 cm. The buoy has sufficient inertial mass to ensure the generator is constantly spinning”, explains the team. It is now necessary to develop the ideal model for generating more power, “which should be tested in suitable coastal areas. To this end, we require not only financing from state programmes, but also from international organisations dedicated to scientific research and development”, they highlight.
Indeed, the project has already attracted the attention of the Argentine Institute for Industrial Technology, which has included the device in its INNOVAR 2008 catalogue; a national innovation competition run by the Argentine Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation of Production.
“We are currently developing a 24 V device, but require funding from venture capitalists or angel investors to enable us to push forward with our project and test the device in situ, i.e., on open water, and present the results to the Institute for Industrial Technology”, Themtham concludes.
