阅读说明：本技术 能量转换装置和相关系统 (Energy conversion device and related system ) 是由 V·韦尔迪安 M·韦尔迪安 J·伍德沃德 C·A·科德 于 2020-03-23 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种能量转换组件,其包括输入轴,所述输入轴通过第一方向限制装置联接到第一环形齿轮,所述第一方向限制装置被构造成允许第一环形齿轮沿第一方向旋转,并且基本上禁止第一环形齿轮沿第二方向旋转。所述输入轴可以通过第二方向限制装置联接到第二环形齿轮,所述第二方向限制装置被构造成允许所述第二环形齿轮沿所述第二方向旋转,并且基本上禁止所述第二环形齿轮沿所述第一方向旋转。所述组件可以包括与所述第一环形齿轮接合的第一传动齿轮、与所述第二环形齿轮接合的第二传动齿轮、可操作地联接到所述第二传动齿轮的转换齿轮以及联接到所述第一传动齿轮和所述转换齿轮的传动轴。(An energy conversion assembly includes an input shaft coupled to a first ring gear by a first direction limiting device configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction. The input shaft may be coupled to a second ring gear by a second direction limiting device configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction. The assembly may include a first transfer gear engaged with the first ring gear, a second transfer gear engaged with the second ring gear, a transfer gear operably coupled to the second transfer gear, and a transfer shaft coupled to the first transfer gear and the transfer gear.)

1. An energy conversion assembly, comprising:

a frame member;

an input shaft coupled to a control arm mounted for movement relative to the frame member;

a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first direction limiting device configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction;

a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a second direction limiting device configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction;

a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear;

a second transfer gear engaged with the second ring gear;

a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear; and

a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the transfer gear.

2. The energy conversion assembly of claim 1, wherein the control arm is a suspension arm of a vehicle and the frame member is a frame member of the vehicle.

3. The energy conversion assembly of claim 2, wherein the energy conversion assembly is configured to dampen oscillations of a suspension of the vehicle while generating electricity.

4. The energy conversion assembly of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second direction limiting devices comprises a one-way bearing.

5. The energy conversion assembly of claim 1, wherein the first ring gear includes a plate magnet.

6. The energy conversion assembly of claim 5, wherein the second ring gear includes an armature.

7. The energy conversion assembly of claim 5, wherein the plate magnet comprises a plurality of permanent magnets.

8. The energy conversion assembly of claim 7, wherein the plurality of permanent magnets are radially arranged about a central axis of the plate magnet.

9. The energy conversion assembly of claim 7, wherein the plate magnets further comprise a ferromagnetic core.

10. The energy conversion assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least one adjustment block configured to adjust a radial position between the drive shaft and the input shaft.

11. A generator, comprising:

a float;

a multiplier gear operably coupled to the float;

an input gear operably engaged with the multiplier gear;

the input gear is operatively coupled to an input shaft;

a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first one-way bearing, the first one-way bearing configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction;

a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a second one-way bearing, the second one-way bearing configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction;

a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear;

a second transfer gear engaged with the second ring gear;

a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear; and

a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the transfer gear.

12. The generator of claim 11 wherein the first ring gear comprises plate magnets.

13. The generator of claim 12 wherein the second ring gear comprises an armature.

14. The generator of claim 13 wherein the armature comprises a plurality of coils.

15. The generator of claim 14 wherein the plurality of coils are arranged radially about a central axis of the second ring gear.

16. The generator of claim 14, wherein the plurality of coils are formed of an electrically conductive material.

17. The generator of claim 14, wherein the plurality of coils are coupled to one or more transmission loops.

18. The generator of claim 17, wherein the one or more transmission rings are configured to provide power to an external component through a brush.

19. The generator of claim 11, further comprising:

a lever arm operably coupled between the float and the multiplier gear;

at least one hydraulic assembly coupled to the float; and

at least one energy conversion device coupled to the at least one hydraulic assembly;

wherein the float is configured to pivot relative to the lever arm, and the at least one hydraulic component is configured to transmit motion caused by the float pivoting relative to the lever arm to the at least one energy conversion device, and the at least one energy conversion device is configured to convert the motion into electrical energy.

20. A generator, comprising:

an input gear operatively coupled to the input shaft;

an oscillating member operably coupled to the input gear;

a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first one-way bearing, the first one-way bearing configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction;

at least one magnet secured to the first ring gear;

a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a second one-way bearing, the second one-way bearing configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction;

an armature fixed to the second ring gear;

a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear;

a second transfer gear engaged with the second ring gear;

a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear; and

a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the transfer gear.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to energy conversion devices for converting mechanical motion into electrical energy via a generator, and to systems incorporating such devices for various applications.

Background

The increase in the cost of fossil fuels has increased the search for alternative means of obtaining and utilizing energy. Generally, alternative methods involve generators configured to harness other types of energy (such as kinetic energy from the movement of a medium) and convert the energy into electrical energy. Some examples include windmills that convert kinetic energy from air movement into electrical energy by rotating the blades of the windmill. Another example includes a hydroelectric dam that flows downflowing water through the dam through a turbine while converting kinetic energy of the flowing water into electrical energy.

The increasing cost of fossil fuels for powering internal combustion engine vehicles has also led to the development of hybrid vehicles. Hybrid vehicles are powered by an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. The electric motor is powered by a battery provided on the vehicle. Internal combustion engines typically power a battery through a generator. The generator is mechanically coupled to the internal combustion engine and electrically coupled to the battery. Operation of the internal combustion engine rotates an armature of the generator relative to a stator of the generator, thereby generating electrical power that charges the battery. In operation of a conventional hybrid vehicle, the output of the internal combustion engine is relied upon to rotate the armature of the generator to generate electrical energy for recharging the vehicle battery.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include an energy conversion assembly. The assembly may include an input shaft. The assembly may further include a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first direction limiting device. The first direction limiting device may be configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction. The assembly may further include a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a second direction limiting device. The second direction limiting device may be configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction. The assembly may further include a first transfer gear engaged with the first ring gear. The assembly may further include a second drive gear engaged with the second ring gear. The assembly may further include a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear. The assembly may further include a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the transfer gear.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a tidal power generator. The tidal power generator may comprise a buoy. The tidal generator may further comprise a multiplier gear operably coupled to the float. The tidal generator may further include an input gear operably engaged with the multiplier gear. The input gear is operatively coupled to the input shaft. The tidal generator may further comprise a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first one-way bearing. The first one-way bearing may be configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction. The tidal generator may further comprise a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft through a second one-way bearing. The second one-way bearing may be configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction. The tidal generator may further comprise a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear. The tidal generator may further comprise a second drive gear engaged with the second ring gear. The tidal generator may further comprise a conversion gear operably coupled to the second drive gear. The tidal generator may further include a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the conversion gear.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure may include a generator. The generator may include an input gear operably coupled to the input shaft. The generator may also include an oscillating member operably coupled to the input gear. The generator may also include a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first one-way bearing. The first one-way bearing may be configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction. The generator may also include at least one magnet coupled to the first ring gear and configured to rotate with the first ring gear. The generator may also include a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a second one-way bearing. The second one-way bearing may be configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction. The generator may also include an armature coupled to the second ring gear and configured to rotate with the second ring gear. The generator may further include a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear. The generator may further include a second drive gear engaged with the second ring gear. The generator may further include a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear. The generator may further include a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the transfer gear.

Drawings

For a detailed understanding of the present disclosure, reference should be made to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like elements are generally designated with like reference numerals, and in which:

fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an energy conversion device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 2 illustrates another perspective view of the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 3 illustrates another perspective view of the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1 and 2 with the cover removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a ring gear assembly of the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1-3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 illustrates a plan view of the ring gear assembly of FIG. 4, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates an enlarged view of the ring gear assembly of FIGS. 4 and 5, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 7 illustrates a perspective enlarged view of a generator assembly of the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1-3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates another enlarged perspective view of the generator assembly of FIG. 7, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates an enlarged side view of the generator assembly of FIGS. 7 and 8, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an inner gear assembly of the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1-3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates another perspective view of the inner gear assembly of FIG. 10, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1-3 with a cover removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 13 illustrates a plan view of a ring gear assembly for use in the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1-3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 14 illustrates another perspective view of the energy conversion device of fig. 1-3 with the cover removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 15 illustrates a suspension system including an embodiment of the energy conversion device of fig. 1-3 with a cover removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 shows an enlarged view of an embodiment of the suspension system of FIG. 15, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 illustrates an enlarged view of an embodiment of the suspension system of FIG. 15, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a tidal generator including an embodiment of the energy conversion apparatus of fig. 1-3, with the cover removed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 19 and 20 illustrate an embodiment of a wave motion utilization apparatus including an embodiment of the energy conversion device of fig. 1-3, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and is

Fig. 21 illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the wave motion utilization device of fig. 19 and 20, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

The illustrations presented herein are not actual views of any particular energy conversion assembly, motor vehicle, wave utilization assembly, or components of such assemblies, but are merely idealized representations which are employed to describe the present invention.

As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

As used herein, the term "may" with respect to materials, structures, features, or method acts is intended to mean that embodiments of the present disclosure are contemplated for implementation, and such terms are used in preference to the more limiting term "is" to avoid implying that other compatible materials, structures, features, and methods that may be used in combination therewith should or must be excluded.

As used herein, any relational terms, such as "first," "second," "front," "back," and the like, are used for clarity and ease of understanding the present disclosure and the drawings, and are not meant or dependent upon any particular preference or order unless otherwise clear from the context.

As used herein, the term "substantially" with respect to a given parameter, attribute, or condition means and includes that the given parameter, attribute, or condition is satisfied with a minor degree of variation, such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances, as would be understood by one skilled in the art. For example, a substantially satisfactory parameter may be at least about 90% satisfied, at least about 95% satisfied, or even at least about 99% satisfied.

As used herein, the term "about" as used in relation to a given parameter includes the recited value and has the meaning dictated by the context (e.g., it includes the degree of error associated with measurement of the given parameter, as well as variations due to manufacturing tolerances, etc.).

As mentioned above, the increase in the cost of fossil fuels has increased the use of alternative methods for converting energy, rather than burning fossil fuels. One type of kinetic energy that may be used for conversion into electrical energy may be oscillatory motion, such as vibration, waves on a body of water, or the motion of a spring system (such as a suspension system).

Embodiments described in this disclosure include energy conversion devices for converting vibrations or oscillatory motion of waves on a body of water (e.g., ocean, sea, lake, pond, river, etc.) such as experienced by a vehicle (e.g., an automobile, car, truck, semi-truck, locomotive, all-terrain vehicle (ATV), utility vehicle (UTV), tractor, etc.) into usable energy (such as electrical energy). Embodiments of the present disclosure may convert oscillatory motion into a rotation in a single direction. The unidirectional rotation may rotate an internal generator configured to generate electrical power by rotating a magnet relative to a series of coils.

Generating electricity solely through vibration may provide advantages over conventional energy conversion devices (e.g., devices that capture energy when the vehicle is braking). For example, the energy conversion apparatus of the present disclosure may allow a vehicle to generate electric power from suspension vibrations that occur when the vehicle is moving at any time. The above can reduce the extreme cycle of the rechargeable battery and can reduce fuel consumption. Furthermore, some embodiments of the present disclosure may allow for the generation of electricity directly from the oscillatory motion of waves on a body of water (e.g., providing a renewable energy source), which may improve the efficiency of tidal generators that convert the energy of waves multiple times before generating electricity, such as generating hydraulic pressure from the waves, which is then used to turn a hydraulic pump to generate electricity.

In some embodiments, the energy conversion device may be attached to a current vehicle that is not currently using the energy conversion device. For example, the energy conversion devices of the present disclosure may provide "clamp-on" devices/solutions for most (if not all) vehicles to capture additional energy and reduce fuel consumption.

Fig. 1 shows an energy conversion device 100 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The energy conversion apparatus 100 may include an input arm 102 operably coupled to an input gear 104. In some embodiments, the input arm 102 may be coupled to the input gear 104 by an input shaft 106. In other embodiments, the input arm 102 may be coupled to the input gear 104 through an additional gear (such as multiplication gear 110). For example, as shown in fig. 1, the input arm 108 may be coupled to a multiplier gear 110, and gear teeth of the multiplier gear 110 may engage gear teeth of the input gear 104 such that movement of the input arm 108 is transferred to the input gear 104 through the multiplier gear 110. In some embodiments, the input arm 102 may be coupled to a linear gear that may be operably engaged with the input gear 104 through interaction between teeth on the linear gear and teeth of the input gear 104 (such as a rack and pinion engagement).

Although fig. 1 shows the energy conversion apparatus 100 having both the input arm 102 and the input arm 108, some embodiments of the energy conversion apparatus 100 may include only one or the other of the input arm 102 and the input arm 108, such that energy is input into the input gear 104 either directly through the input arm 102 or through the input arm 108 via the multiplier gear 110.

Input gear 104 may be operatively coupled to energy conversion device 100 by an input shaft 106. For example, energy conversion device 100 may include a housing 112, and input shaft 106 may pass through an opening in housing 112. The opening in the housing 112 may include a sleeve configured to protect the input shaft 106 and/or allow the input shaft 106 to rotate freely. For example, the sleeve may be a bushing or a bearing.

In some embodiments, energy conversion device 100 may not include input gear 104. For example, the input arm 102 may be directly coupled to the input shaft 106 such that the motion of the input arm 102 may be directly transmitted to the internal components of the energy conversion device 100 through the input shaft 106 without first passing through the input gear 104.

Housing 112 may be configured to enclose the internal components of energy conversion device 100 within a cavity 114 defined within housing 112. The housing 112 may be configured to protect the internal components from damage. For example, the housing 112 may protect internal components from impact damage, such as impact with adjacent mechanical components or impact with foreign objects (such as debris). In some embodiments, the housing 112 may be configured to protect the internal components of the energy conversion device 100 from environmental elements (such as moisture, dust, heat, cold, etc.). In some embodiments, the housing 112 may allow the energy conversion apparatus 100 to be mounted to a structure, such as a frame, wall, or the like, configured to hold the energy conversion apparatus 100 in a stationary position relative to a moving component.

Fig. 2 shows energy conversion device 100 with the front and side walls of housing 112 removed to better depict the internal components of energy conversion device 100. As described above, the input gear 104 may be coupled to the input shaft 106. Input gear 104 and/or input arm 102 may be operably coupled to one or more gears 202, 204, 206 within energy conversion device 100 via input shaft 106. For example, the input shaft 106 may be coupled to the first and second ring gears 202, 204 such that movement of the input gear 104 and/or the input arm 102 may be transferred to at least one of the first and second ring gears 202, 204. In some embodiments, the input shaft 106 may be operably coupled to each of the first ring gear 202, the second ring gear 204, and the third ring gear 206. In some embodiments, first ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, and third ring gear 206 may be coupled together by additional mechanisms (such as gears, gearboxes, hydraulics, cogs, pulleys, belts, etc.).

Fig. 3 illustrates an embodiment of energy conversion device 100 with the walls of housing 112 removed to better illustrate the internal components of energy conversion device 100. As described above, the input shaft 106 may be operatively coupled to the first ring gear 202, the second ring gear 204, and the third ring gear 206. In some embodiments, input shaft 106 may be coupled to first ring gear 202 such that movement of input shaft 106 may move (e.g., rotate) first ring gear 202 in substantially the same direction. For example, if the input arm 102 is rotated in a clockwise direction relative to the axis 316 of the input shaft 106, the input arm 102 may rotate the input shaft 106 in a clockwise direction. Input shaft 106 may then rotate first ring gear 202 in a clockwise direction about axis 316. In some embodiments, the input shaft 106 may be coupled to the second ring gear 204 such that the input shaft 106 may rotate the second ring gear 204 in substantially the same direction as the input shaft 106.

The coupling between the input shaft 106 and the first and/or second ring gears 202, 204 may be configured to transfer rotational motion from the input shaft 106 to the first and/or second ring gears 202, 204 in only one direction, and not to the first and/or second ring gears 202, 204 in the opposite direction. As a result, when the input shaft 106 rotates back and forth in the first and second directions, the input shaft 106 may be configured such that the first and second ring gears 202, 204 rotate relative to each other such that the first ring gear 202 rotates in the first direction and the second ring gear 204 rotates in the second direction. In some embodiments, the limitation of the direction in which first ring gear 202 and second ring gear 204 may rotate may be facilitated by a direction limiting device, such as a one-way bearing (e.g., a wedge bearing, a wedge clutch, a slip clutch, an anti-backup, etc.). In some embodiments, directional limitation may be facilitated by the design of the ring gears 202, 204, 206 or the drive members coupling the ring gears 202, 204, 206 to the input shaft 106, as described in further detail below with respect to fig. 13.

First ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, and third ring gear 206 may be connected by another set of gears such that the motion of first ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, and third ring gear 206 may be transmitted to each other. For example, energy conversion apparatus 100 may include a first drive shaft 302 that includes a first drive gear 304 and a first transfer gear 306. Energy conversion device 100 may also include a second drive shaft 308 that includes a second conversion gear 310 and a second drive gear 312. First drive gear 304 may be operably engaged with first ring gear 202 such that motion of first ring gear 202 may be transferred to first drive gear 304 through the interlocking teeth of first ring gear 202 and first drive gear 304. First transfer gear 306 may be coupled to first transfer gear 304 via first transfer shaft 302 such that first transfer gear 306 moves at substantially the same rotational speed and direction as first transfer gear 304. Second switching gear 310 may be operably engaged with first switching gear 306 such that movement of first switching gear 306 may be transferred to second switching gear 310 through the interlocking teeth of first switching gear 306 and second switching gear 310. The operative engagement of first transfer gear 306 and second transfer gear 310 may cause second transfer gear 310 to rotate in an opposite rotational direction from first transfer gear 306. Second transfer gear 310 may be coupled to second drive gear 312 via second drive shaft 308 such that second drive gear 312 moves at substantially the same rotational speed and direction as second transfer gear 310. The second drive gear 312 may be operably engaged with the second ring gear 204 such that movement of the second drive gear 312 may be transmitted to the second ring gear 204 through the interlocking teeth of the second drive gear 312 and the second ring gear 204. The second drive gear 312 may rotate the second ring gear 204 in a rotational direction opposite the rotational direction of the first ring gear 202. First and second drive shafts 302 and 308 and the associated gears described may similarly transmit motion of second ring gear 204 to first ring gear 202 such that first ring gear 202 may rotate in an opposite direction from second ring gear 204.

The direction limiting device 318 that couples the input shaft 106 to the first and second ring gears 202, 204 may allow the input shaft 106 to drive one of the first and second ring gears 202, 204 as the input shaft 106 rotates, while enabling the first ring gear 202 to rotate in a first respective direction and the second ring gear 204 to rotate in a second respective direction that is opposite the first respective direction, regardless of the direction in which the input shaft 106 rotates. The ring gears 202, 204 driven by the input shaft 106 may transfer rotation to the associated first drive gear 304 or second drive gear 312. First drive shaft 302, second drive shaft 308, and associated gears 304, 306, 310, 312 may transfer motion of the driven ring gears 202, 204 to ring gears 202, 204 not driven by input shaft 106 such that first ring gear 202 and second ring gear 204 each rotate in the same respective direction regardless of the direction in which input shaft 106 rotates, with the respective direction of first ring gear 202 being opposite the respective direction of second ring gear 204.

For example, the input shaft 106 may be coupled to the first ring gear 202 and the second ring gear 204 through respective direction limiting devices 318. A direction limiting device 318 associated with first ring gear 202 may allow input shaft 106 to rotate first ring gear 202 in a first direction and may allow input shaft 106 to rotate relative to first ring gear 202 in a second direction without rotating first ring gear 202 in the second direction. Similarly, the direction limiting device 318 associated with the second ring gear 204 may allow the input shaft 106 to rotate the second ring gear 204 in the second direction and may allow the input shaft 106 to rotate in the first direction relative to the second ring gear 204 without rotating the second ring gear 204 in the first direction.

When input shaft 106 is rotated in a first direction, input shaft 106 may rotate first ring gear 202 in the first direction via an associated direction limiting device 318. The input shaft 106 may rotate relative to the second ring gear 204 without directly transmitting rotation on the second ring gear 204. First ring gear 202 may rotate first transfer gear 304 through the operative engagement between first ring gear 202 and first transfer gear 304. First drive gear 304 may rotate first transfer gear 306 via first drive shaft 302. First transfer gear 306 may rotate second transfer gear 310 through operative engagement between first transfer gear 306 and second transfer gear 310. Second transfer gear 310 may rotate second drive gear 312 via second drive shaft 308. As described above, the operative engagement between first transfer gear 306 and second transfer gear 310 may effectively reverse the direction of rotation such that second drive shaft 308 rotates in an opposite direction to first drive shaft 302. The second drive gear 312 may rotate the second ring gear 204 through operative engagement between the second drive gear 312 and the second ring gear 204. Second ring gear 204 may rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction of input shaft 106 and first ring gear 202 due to the reverse direction caused by the operative engagement between first transfer gear 306 and second transfer gear 310.

The direction limiting means 318 between the input shaft 106 and the second ring gear 204 may allow the second ring gear 204 to rotate in the second direction when the input shaft 106 rotates in the first direction. Thus, the input shaft 106 may directly drive the first ring gear 202 in a first direction while indirectly driving the second ring gear 204 in a second direction via the first drive shaft 302, the second drive shaft 308, and the associated gears 304, 306, 310, 312.

In some cases, the input shaft 106 may reverse direction and rotate in a second direction. When the input shaft 106 is rotated in a first direction, the input shaft 106 may rotate the second ring gear 204 in a second direction via the associated direction limiting device 318. Input shaft 106 may rotate relative to first ring gear 202 without directly transmitting rotation on first ring gear 202. The second ring gear 204 may rotate the second drive gear 312 via operative engagement between the second ring gear 204 and the second drive gear 312. Second transfer gear 312 may rotate second transfer gear 310 via second drive shaft 308. Second switching gear 310 may rotate first switching gear 306 through operative engagement between first switching gear 306 and second switching gear 310. First transfer gear 306 may rotate first transfer gear 304 via first transfer shaft 302. As described above, the operative engagement between first transfer gear 306 and second transfer gear 310 may effectively reverse the direction of rotation such that first drive shaft 302 rotates in an opposite direction to second drive shaft 308. First drive gear 304 may rotate first ring gear 202 via the operative engagement between first drive gear 304 and first ring gear 202. Due to the reverse direction caused by the operative engagement between first transfer gear 306 and second transfer gear 310, first ring gear 202 may rotate in a first direction opposite to the second direction of input shaft 106 and second ring gear 204.

A direction limiting device 318 between input shaft 106 and first ring gear 202 may allow first ring gear 202 to rotate in a first direction when input shaft 106 rotates in a second direction. Thus, the input shaft 106 may directly drive the second ring gear 204 in the second direction while indirectly driving the first ring gear 202 in the first direction via the second drive shaft 308, the first drive shaft 302, and the associated gears 304, 306, 310, 312.

In some cases, the input shaft 106 may repeatedly oscillate the transition between rotating in the first direction and rotating in the second direction. As described above, the direction limiting device 318 may allow the first and second ring gears 202, 204 to be selectively engaged by the input shaft 106 such that the first and second ring gears 202, 204 rotate in respective first and second directions regardless of the direction of rotation of the input shaft 106. Thus, for each of first ring gear 202 and second ring gear 204, energy conversion device 100 may convert the oscillating rotation of input shaft 106 into rotation in a single direction.

In some embodiments, energy conversion apparatus 100 may include a third ring gear 206. In some embodiments, third ring gear 206 may be operably coupled to first ring gear 202. For example, third ring gear 206 may be operatively coupled to first ring gear 202 by first drive shaft 302. As described above, first drive gear 304 may be operatively engaged with first ring gear 202 via interlocking teeth. First drive gear 304 may be operatively coupled to third drive gear 314 through first drive shaft 302. Third drive gear 314 may be operably engaged with third ring gear 206 by interlocking teeth in a manner similar to the operative engagement between first drive gear 304 and first ring gear 202. First ring gear 202 may rotate first drive shaft 302 through operative engagement between first ring gear 202 and first drive gear 304. First drive gear 302, in turn, can rotate third drive gear 314 in the same direction as first drive gear 304. First transfer gear 304 may then rotate third ring gear 206 in substantially the same direction as first ring gear 202.

Thus, first ring gear 202 and third ring gear 206 may rotate in a first direction, while second ring gear 204 may rotate in a second direction opposite first ring gear 202 and third ring gear 206. When first ring gear 202 and third ring gear 206 rotate in a direction opposite second ring gear 204, the relative rotational speed between first ring gear 202 or third ring gear 206 and second ring gear 204 may be greater than the rotational speed of each individual first ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, and third ring gear 206. For example, if each of first ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, and third ring gear 206 are rotating at substantially the same speed, the relative rotational speed between first ring gear 202 or third ring gear 206 and second ring gear 204 may be approximately twice the individual rotational speed. As described in more detail below, rotating first ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, and third ring gear 206 relative to one another may generate electrical energy.

In some embodiments, the third ring gear 206 may be coupled to the input shaft 106 by a rotatable coupling such as a bearing (e.g., a sliding bearing, a needle bearing, a ball bearing, a thrust bearing, a tapered bearing, a magnetic bearing, etc.). The rotatable coupling may be configured to allow the third ring gear 206 to freely rotate about the input shaft 106. For example, the input shaft 106 may limit radial movement of the third ring gear 206 such that the third ring gear 206 remains substantially coaxial with the input shaft 106 while allowing rotational movement about the input shaft 106 regardless of the direction of rotation of the input shaft 106. In some embodiments, third ring gear 206 may be selectively engaged by input shaft 106 through a direction limiting device 318 similar to first ring gear 202.

In some embodiments, energy conversion device 100 may include additional ring gears operatively coupled to first ring gear 202 or second ring gear 204 by respective first and second drive shafts 302, 308, similar to the operative coupling of first and third ring gears 202, 206. For example, the energy conversion device 100 may include a fourth ring gear on a side of the third ring gear 206 opposite the second ring gear 204. The fourth ring gear may be substantially coaxial with the first, second, and third ring gears 202, 204, 206 along the input shaft 106. In some embodiments, the fourth ring gear may be operably coupled to the second ring gear 204 via a second drive shaft 308 such that the fourth ring gear rotates in substantially the same direction as the second ring gear 204 and in an opposite direction to the rotation of the first and third ring gears 202, 206. Energy conversion device 100 may have stacks of coaxial ring gears extending to five ring gears, six ring gears, seven ring gears, and the like. The coaxial rings may alternate directions of rotation such that no one coaxial ring rotates in the same direction as an adjacent coaxial ring. For example, each coaxial ring gear may be driven by one of first drive shaft 302 and second drive shaft 308 that is different from the adjacent coaxial ring gear.

In some embodiments, the input shaft 106 may drive more than one set of coaxial ring gears 202, 204, 206. For example, input shaft 106 may be operably coupled to another similarly configured energy conversion apparatus 100 such that a first energy conversion apparatus 100 and a second energy conversion apparatus 100' are stacked on the same input shaft 106. As described above, the input shaft 106 may be operatively coupled to the first ring gear 202 and the second ring gear 204 of the first energy conversion apparatus 100 via the directional limiting device 318. The input shaft 106 may extend beyond the third ring gear 206 and engage the first and second ring gears 202 ', 204 ' of the second energy conversion device 100 '. First and second energy conversion apparatus 100, 100 'may be separated such that first and second drive shafts 302, 308 of first energy conversion apparatus 100 are not coupled to first and second drive shafts 302, 308' of second energy conversion apparatus 100 'such that the set of coaxial ring gears 202, 204, 206 of first energy conversion apparatus 100 are movable independently of the set of coaxial ring gears 202', 204 ', 206' in second energy conversion apparatus 100.

Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a first ring gear assembly 400 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The first ring gear assembly 400 may include a first ring gear 202. The first ring gear 202 may be coupled to the plate magnet 402. The plate magnet 402 may include a plurality of permanent magnets 410 arranged radially around a core 414. The permanent magnets 410 may be arranged such that the poles (e.g., north, south) of the permanent magnets 410 alternate around the core 414. In other words, each permanent magnet 410 may have a different polarity than an adjacent permanent magnet 410. For example, the first permanent magnet 410 may be arranged such that the north pole of the permanent magnet 410 is radially outward (e.g., farther from the axis of the plate magnet 402). Permanent magnets 410 disposed in adjacent radial positions around the core 414 may be arranged such that the south poles of the permanent magnets 410 are radially outward. In some embodiments, the plate magnet 402 may include more than four permanent magnets 410 arranged around the core 414, such as between about eight and about forty permanent magnets 410 or between about ten and about thirty permanent magnets 410. The permanent magnets 410 may be arranged such that the permanent magnets 410 are equally radially spaced about the core 414 (e.g., such that the angular displacement between each permanent magnet 410 is substantially the same).

The core 414 may be formed from a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, nickel, cobalt, gadolinium, and alloys thereof (e.g., steel). The permanent magnet 410 may be attached to the core 414 by hardware (e.g., screws, bolts, rivets, pins, etc.), adhesives, epoxies, heating processes, melting processes, molding processes, or a combination thereof. For example, the permanent magnet 410 may be molded into the core 414 by an epoxy molding process. In some embodiments, the permanent magnet 410 may be coupled to the core 414 with hardware and secured with epoxy.

The plate magnet 402 may include a plurality of mounting holes 404 radially arranged around the plate magnet 402. The mounting holes 404 may be configured to receive hardware, such as bolts, studs, screws, rivets, and the like. Hardware may be provided in the mounting holes 404 to secure the plate magnet 402 to the first ring gear 202. In some embodiments, first ring gear 202 may include complementary holes configured to receive hardware through mounting holes 404. For example, studs or bolts may be passed through first ring gear 202 and into or through mounting holes 404 in plate magnet 402. In some embodiments, hardware such as studs may extend from a surface of first ring gear 202 such that plate magnet 402 may be sleeved over the studs, where the studs pass through mounting holes 404 in plate magnet 402. In some embodiments, the hardware may include a head configured to abut against a surface of the plate magnet 402, securing the plate magnet 402 to the first ring gear 202. In some embodiments, the hardware may include threads or another coupling device (e.g., a groove, a locking pin, a u-clamp pin, etc.) configured to receive additional hardware, such as a nut, a pin, a washer, a lock nut, a slot top nut, etc., such that the additional hardware may abut against a surface of the plate magnet 402, securing the plate magnet 402 to the first ring gear 202.

The first ring gear assembly 400 may include spacers 408 configured to axially position the plate magnets 402 (e.g., displace in an axial direction) relative to the first ring gear 202. For example, the spacer 408 may be configured to position the plate magnet 402 in an optimal position relative to an adjacent component, such as an armature (e.g., armature 702 (fig. 7)). The optimal position may be determined such that the plate magnet 402 may interact with the adjacent component while the first ring gear 202 does not interfere with movement of the adjacent component. As described in further detail below with respect to fig. 7, the plate magnet 402 and the armature 702 may form a generator. The rotation of the plate magnet 402 relative to the armature 702 may generate electricity by a rotating magnetic field caused by the relative rotation between the plate magnet 402 and the armature 702.

In some embodiments, spacer 408 may be formed as part of first ring gear 202. For example, the spacer 408 may be machined from the surface of the first ring gear 202. In some embodiments, the spacers 408 may be formed during a forging or molding process. In some embodiments, spacer 408 may be a separate component coupled to first ring gear 202. For example, the spacer 408 may be coupled to the first ring gear 202 by an adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.), a physicochemical process (e.g., welding, soldering, etc.), or a hardware connection (e.g., nuts and bolts, screws, rivets, etc.). In some embodiments, spacer 408 may include mounting holes that are complementary to mounting holes 404 in plate magnet 402 and/or first ring gear 202. Hardware for mounting plate magnet 402 to first ring gear 202 may pass through complementary mounting holes in spacer 408 and mounting holes 404 in the magnet and complementary holes in first ring gear 202. When the hardware is tightened to secure plate magnet 402 to first ring gear 202, spacer 408 may be radially and axially secured between plate magnet 402 and first ring gear 202.

The first ring gear assembly 400 may include a one-way bearing 412 configured as the direction limiting device 318 described above. The one-way bearing 412 may be configured to selectively transfer rotational force from the input shaft 106 to the first ring gear 202. As described above, the one-way bearing 412 may transmit the rotational force in the first direction from the input shaft 106 to the first ring gear 202, and may allow the input shaft 106 to rotate in the second direction without transmitting the rotational force in the second direction to the first ring gear 202. The one-way bearing 412 may be configured to receive rotational force from the input shaft 106 through a complementary geometric feature (such as the key 406) between the input shaft 106 and the one-way bearing 412.

The keys 406 may extend axially along an outer surface of the input shaft 106. The key 406 may be a protrusion extending from the input shaft 106 configured to interact with a complementary recess in the one-way bearing 412, as shown in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the key 406 may be an axial groove in the input shaft 106 configured to interact with a complementary protrusion in the one-way bearing 412. In some embodiments, the one-way bearing 412 and/or the input shaft 106 may include a plurality of grooves and/or protrusions, such as two, four, eight, etc.

Fig. 5 shows a plan view of the first ring gear assembly 400. The one-way bearing 412 may be disposed in the bearing housing 502. The bearing housing 502 may be configured to receive rotational input from the one-way bearing 412. For example, the one-way bearing 412 and the bearing housing 502 may interact through complementary geometric features (such as keys 504) as shown in fig. 5. The key 504 may be a protrusion extending from the bearing housing 502 that is configured to interact with a complementary groove in the one-way bearing 412. In some embodiments, the key 504 may be a protrusion extending from the one-way bearing 412 configured to interact with a complementary groove in the bearing housing 502. In some embodiments, the key 504 may be a corresponding groove in the one-way bearing 412 and the bearing housing 502 that are configured to interact through a complementary component, such as a flat spline or pin (e.g., a roll pin), that may be inserted into the two grooves, operably locking the grooves together.

When the one-way bearing 412 transmits rotational force from the input shaft 106, the one-way bearing 412 may transmit the rotational force to the bearing housing 502 through the key 504. As described above, the one-way bearing 412 can transmit the rotational force from the input shaft 106 in one direction, but cannot transmit the rotational force from the input shaft 106 in the other direction.

The bearing housing 502 may include one or more protrusions 506 extending from the bearing housing 502. For example, the bearing housing 502 may include several protrusions 506 equally spaced radially around the exterior of the bearing housing 502. Several protrusions 506 may form a series of teeth similar to a gear tooth or a gear. First ring gear 202 may include a complementary geometry configured to receive bearing housing 502. For example, first ring gear 202 may include a complementary recess 508 configured to receive protrusion 506. Bearing housing 502 may be disposed in a central portion of first ring gear 202 such that protrusion 506 may interlock with complementary recess 508. Thus, movement of bearing housing 502 may be transferred to first ring gear 202 through interlocking protrusions 506 and recesses 508.

As described above, the input shaft 106 may transmit the rotational force in the first direction to the one-way bearing 412 through the key 406. The one-way bearing 412 may transmit a rotational force in a first direction to the bearing housing 502 through the key 504. Bearing housing 502 may then transmit rotational force to first ring gear 202 through interlocking protrusions 506 and recesses 508. First ring gear 202 may then rotate in a first direction with plate magnet 402 coupled to first ring gear 202 through mounting holes 404 and associated hardware. When the input shaft 106 is rotated in the second direction, the input shaft 106 may transmit the rotational force to the one-way bearing 412 through the key 406. However, the one-way bearing 412 may isolate the rotational force from the bearing housing 502 such that the rotational force in the second direction is not transmitted to the bearing housing 502 or the first ring gear 202.

Fig. 6 shows an exploded view of the first ring gear assembly 400. The first ring gear 202, the spacer 408, the one-way bearing 412, and the plate magnet 402 may be coaxially arranged along the input shaft 106. The bearing housing 502 may be coupled to a mounting plate 602. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 602 may be configured to secure all of the individual components of the first ring gear assembly 400 to one another.

For example, the mounting plate 602 may be formed as part of the bearing housing 502. As described above, bearing housing 502 may include a series of protrusions 506 configured to interlock with a series of complementary recesses 508 in at least first ring gear 202. In some embodiments, the spacer 408 and/or the plate magnet 402 may include similar recesses configured to receive and/or interlock with the protrusions 506 of the bearing housing 502. Mounting plate 602 may provide a stop configured to retain first ring gear 202, spacer 408, and plate magnet 402 on bearing housing 502. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 602 may include a series of mounting holes 604. The series of mounting holes 604 may be complementary to a set of mounting holes 606 in first ring gear 202, a set of mounting holes 608 in spacers 408, and mounting holes 404 in plate magnet 402. All of the mounting holes 604, 606, 608, 404 may be aligned such that hardware may be disposed through all of the aligned mounting holes 604, 606, 608, 404. Hardware may secure each of mounting plate 602, first ring gear 202, spacer 408, and plate magnet 402 to one another axially and radially.

In some embodiments, the mounting plate 602 may include studs extending from the mounting plate 602. The studs may be complementary to the mounting holes 606, 608, 404 in the first ring gear 202, the spacer 408, and the plate magnet 402, such that the first ring gear 202, the spacer 408, and the plate magnet 402 may be sleeved over the studs, wherein the studs extend through the mounting holes 606, 608, 404. Additional hardware (e.g., nuts, washers, pins, etc.) may then be coupled to one end of the studs extending through mounting holes 404 in plate magnets 402, radially and axially securing each of first ring gear 202, spacer 408, and plate magnets 402 to mounting plate 602.

Fig. 7, 8 and 9 show exploded views of the generator assembly 700 of the energy conversion device 100. The generator assembly 700 may include the first, second, and third ring gear assemblies 400, 712, 714 described above.

Referring to fig. 7, the third ring gear assembly 714 may be similar to the first ring gear assembly 400. For example, the third ring gear assembly 714 may include a plate magnet 704 including a core 716 and a plurality of permanent magnets 718 radially arranged around the core 716. The third ring gear assembly 714 may also include a secondary spacer 706 configured to axially position the plate magnet 704 relative to the third ring gear 206. The third ring gear assembly 714 may include a bearing housing 708 coupled to a mounting plate 720, similar to the mounting plate 602 and bearing housing 502 of the first ring gear assembly 400.

The mounting plate 720 may be configured with mounting holes 722 that are complementary to a set of mounting holes 724 through the third ring gear 206, a set of mounting holes 726 through the secondary spacer 706, and a set of mounting holes 728 through the plate magnet 704. The mounting holes 722, 724, 726, and 728 may be configured to receive hardware. Hardware may pass through the mounting holes 722, 724, 726, and 728 such that the hardware may axially and radially secure the plate magnets 704, the secondary spacers 706, and the third ring gear 206 to the mounting plate 720. Bearing housing 708 may have an external geometric pattern, such as a series of protrusions configured to interact with complementary geometries on third ring gear 206, sub-spacer 706, and mounting hole 728.

The bearing housing 708 may be configured to house a bearing configured to couple the bearing housing 708 to the input shaft 106. The bearings coupling the bearing housing 708 to the input shaft 106 may be conventional bearings such as ball bearings, needle bearings, thrust bearings, slide bearings, tapered bearings, and the like. In some embodiments, the bearing coupling the bearing housing 708 to the input shaft 106 may be a one-way bearing similar to the one-way bearing 412 coupling the bearing housing 502 of the first ring gear assembly 400 to the input shaft 106.

The second ring gear assembly 712 may include an armature 702. The armature 702 may include a flange 730. The flange 730 may be configured to provide a mounting surface for the second ring gear 204 on the armature 702. The second ring gear 204 may be configured as a ring configured to fit over the outer surface 736 of the armature 702. The second ring gear 204 may include a series of mounting holes 734 disposed about the second ring gear 204. Mounting holes 734 may pass through the second ring gear 204 and correspond with the mounting holes 732 in the flange 730 of the armature 702.

In some embodiments, the mounting holes 732 in the flange 730 may be threaded. For example, the mounting holes 732 may have threads configured to receive hardware through the mounting holes 734 in the second ring gear 204, thereby securing the second ring gear 204 to the flange 730. In some embodiments, the mounting hole 732 may be a blind hole (e.g., not completely through the flange 730). In some embodiments, the mounting holes 732 may be through holes, enabling the hardware to pass through the flange 730 and exit on the opposite side of the flange 730. In some embodiments, the mounting hole 734 in the second ring gear 204 may be threaded, and the mounting hole 732 in the flange 730 may be a straight hole (e.g., without threads). The hardware may be passed through mounting holes 732 in the flange 730 and screwed into mounting holes 734 in the second ring gear 204. In some embodiments, hardware may pass through mounting holes 732 in the flange 730 and mounting holes 734 in the second ring gear 204. The hardware may be secured to at least one side of the second ring gear assembly 712 with additional hardware, such as nuts, washers, clips, pins, etc. In some embodiments, the flange 730 may include studs extending from the flange 730 that are complementary to the mounting holes 734 in the second ring gear 204. For example, the second ring gear 204 may be sleeved over the outer surface 736 of the armature 702 such that the studs extend through the mounting holes 734 in the second ring gear 204. The second ring gear 204 may then be secured to the armature 702 with additional hardware secured to the stud (such as a nut, washer, lock nut, lock washer, pin, clip, etc.).

The armature 702 may include a coil embedded within the armature 702. For example, armature 702 may be formed from a composite material (e.g., fiberglass) or a polymer (e.g., Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), etc.) formed around a series of coils. The coil may include a plurality of windings (e.g., turns, coils) of electrically conductive material, such as copper wire. For example, each coil may have between about ten windings and about ten thousand windings, such as between about seventy windings and about one thousand windings, or between about ninety windings and about two hundred windings. In some embodiments, the number of windings may be determined based on a motion parameter of the input shaft 106, such as a rotational speed (e.g., a maximum rotational speed, an average rotational speed, etc.). In some embodiments, the number of windings in each coil may be determined based on parameters of the desired output of the coil (e.g., output voltage, output current, output power, etc.). The coils may be arranged radially about the axis of the armature 702.

Relative rotation between the armature 702 and the plate magnet 402 and/or the plate magnet 704 may generate an electrical current in the coil due to changes in the magnetic field caused by movement between the armature 702 and the plate magnet 402 and/or the plate magnet 704. In other words, the combination of the armature 702, the plate magnet 402, and/or the plate magnet 704 may form an internal generator of the energy conversion device 100. Thus, as described in further detail below, motion input into the energy conversion device 100 via the input gear 104 and/or the input shaft 106 (e.g., motion experienced by the input arm 108 or imparted onto the input gear 104 and/or the input shaft 106) is converted into electrical energy.

The coil may be electrically coupled to a transmission ring 710 disposed around the armature 702. For example, multiple coils may be connected together in series and then coupled to respective transmission loops 710. In some embodiments, each coil may be coupled to a respective transmission loop 710 such that multiple coils are coupled to the transmission loop 710 in parallel. In some embodiments, multiple coils may be connected in series, and multiple sets of coils connected in series may be connected in parallel to the transmission loop 710. In some embodiments, the armature 702 may include a single transmission ring 710 such that all coils in the armature 702 are coupled to the same transmission ring 710.

In some embodiments, the armature 702 may include a plurality of transmission rings 710 such that the coils in the armature 702 may be divided into a plurality of groups, with each group of coils connected to one of the plurality of transmission rings 710. For example, the armature 702 may include three transmission rings 710, as shown in fig. 7. Each transmission ring 710 may have a set of coils within the armature 702 coupled to the transmission ring 710. Each set of coils may represent a phase of electrical power. The phases may be formed by alternating groups to which each coil is radially coupled around the armature 702. For example, each coil may be coupled to a different set of coils than radially adjacent coils within the armature 702, such that every third coil may be coupled to the same set. As the second ring gear assembly 712 rotates relative to the first and third ring gear assemblies 400, 714, the permanent magnets 410, 718 may induce an electrical current in each coil in the armature 702 as each permanent magnet 410, 718 passes by each coil. The current and/or associated voltage may be passed directly from each coil or through each coil set to the respective transmission loop 710.

The transmission ring 710 can be configured to transmit the current and/or voltage generated by the changing magnetic field around the armature 702 to an adjacent component or an external component. For example, a power pick-up, such as a brush, may be in electrical contact with the transfer ring 710 and configured to transfer current, voltage, and/or power generated by the generator assembly 700 to another component, such as a transformer, a power inverter, a rectifier, a transmission line, a power storage device, and the like.

Referring to fig. 8, the armature 702 may be coupled to the input shaft 106 by a one-way bearing 802. As described above, the one-way bearing 802 may serve as the direction limiting device 318. The one-way bearing 802 may selectively transmit rotational force from the input shaft 106 to the armature 702. For example, if the input shaft 106 is rotating in a first direction, the one-way bearing 802 may allow the input shaft 106 to rotate relative to the armature 702 such that no rotational force in the first direction is transmitted to the armature 702. Conversely, the armature 702 may be driven in the second direction due to the rotational force transmitted to the second ring gear 204 through the second drive shaft 308 (fig. 3), as described above. When the input shaft 106 rotates in the second direction, the one-way bearing 802 may transmit a rotational force in the second direction from the input shaft 106 to the armature 702. The armature 702 may then transmit rotational force in the second direction to the second ring gear 204 such that the second ring gear 204 may transmit rotational force to the first ring gear 202 and/or the third ring gear 206 via the second drive shaft 308 and the first drive shaft 302 (fig. 3), as described above.

The one-way bearing 802 may be configured in a manner similar to the one-way bearing 412 in the first ring gear assembly 400 described above. For example, the one-way bearing 802 may include a recess that is complementary to the key 406 (FIG. 4) on the input shaft 106. The input shaft 106 can input a rotational force into the one-way bearing 802 through the key 406. The one-way bearing 802 may then be configured to selectively transmit rotational force to the armature 702 through the one-way bearing 802, or isolate the rotational force from the armature 702. The one-way bearing 802 may interact with the armature 702 through complementary geometric features, such as a key and complementary groove. For example, the geometric feature may be a protrusion extending from the armature 702 that is configured to interact with a complementary groove in the one-way bearing 802. In some embodiments, the geometric feature may be a protrusion extending from the unidirectional bearing 802 that is configured to interact with a complementary groove in the armature 702. In some embodiments, the geometric feature may be a corresponding groove in the one-way bearing 802 and the armature 702 that are configured to interact through a complementary component, such as a flat spline or pin (e.g., a roll pin), that may be inserted into the two grooves, operably locking the grooves together. In some embodiments, the armature 702 may interact with the one-way bearing 802 through a frictional engagement (such as a press fit, a friction fit, a set screw, etc.).

Referring to FIG. 9, the input shaft 106 may include sections configured to interact with the first, second, and third ring gear assemblies 400, 712, 714. For example, the input shaft 106 may include a non-keyed portion 904 and a keyed portion 906. The keyed portion 906 may include a key 406 extending axially along the input shaft 106. The non-keyed portion 904 may have a substantially circular cross-section without any protrusions (e.g., keys) extending from the surface of the input shaft 106.

The non-keyed portion 904 may be configured to receive a third ring gear assembly 714. As described above, the third ring gear assembly 714 may be coupled to the input shaft 106 by a common bearing (e.g., roller bearing, needle bearing, tapered bearing, thrust bearing, sliding bearing, magnetic bearing, etc.) such that all movement of the input shaft 106 is substantially isolated from the third ring gear 206 by the bearing. The non-keyed portion 904 may allow a plain bearing to be coupled to the non-keyed portion 904 of the input shaft 106 without the geometry that transfers rotational forces from the input shaft 106 to the bearing.

The keyed portion 906 may be separated from the non-keyed portion 904 by a shoulder 902. The shoulder 902 may substantially prevent the third ring gear assembly 714 from extending into the keyed portion 906. In some embodiments, the non-keyed portion 904 may have a smaller diameter than the keyed portion 906. For example, a larger diameter may allow the input shaft 106 to transmit a greater rotational force without damaging the input shaft 106. The diameter may be reduced without the key portion 904 transferring no rotational force. In some embodiments, reducing the diameter of the non-keyed portion 904 of the input shaft 106 may reduce the rotating mass of the generator assembly 700. In some embodiments, reducing the diameter of the non-keyed portion 904 of the input shaft 106 may reduce material costs. In some embodiments, reducing the diameter of the non-keyed portion 904 of the input shaft 106 may reduce manufacturing costs, such as by reducing assembly time. In some embodiments, the non-keyed portion 904 may be substantially the same diameter as the keyed portion 906, such that the shoulder 902 may be formed by the end of the key 406.

The keyed portion 906 may be configured to interact with the first and second ring gear assemblies 400, 712. For example, keyed portion 906 may be configured to receive one-way bearing 412 and one-way bearing 802. As described above, the input shaft 106 may transmit rotational force to the one-way bearing 412 and the one-way bearing 802 through the key 406. The one-way bearing 412 and the one-way bearing 802 may selectively transmit rotational force to the respective first ring gear 202 and armature 702 depending on the direction of rotation of the input shaft 106.

Fig. 10 and 11 show views of the energy conversion apparatus 100. As described above, generator assembly 700 may include first ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, and third ring gear 206, which may interact through first and second drive shafts 302, 308 and associated gears 304, 306, 310, 312, and 314. As described above, energy conversion device 100 may be enclosed within housing 112 (fig. 1). By mounting each of input shaft 106, first drive shaft 302, and second drive shaft 308 to housing 112, first drive shaft 302 and second drive shaft 308 may be positioned relative to generator assembly 700.

The input shaft 106 may be coupled to the housing 112 by an input shaft bearing 1002. The input shaft bearing 1002 may be located on an opposite side of the generator assembly 700. In some embodiments, the input shaft bearing 1002 may be configured to position the input shaft 106 axially and radially with respect to the housing 112. For example, the input shaft bearings 1002 may be coupled to the input shaft 106 by an interference fit (e.g., press fit, friction fit, etc.) such that each input shaft bearing 1002 is fixed to the input shaft 106 at both an axial position and a radial position. In some embodiments, one or more of the input shaft bearings 1002 may be coupled to the input shaft 106 by a complementary taper. For example, the complementary taper may be configured to limit axial movement of the input shaft bearing 1002 relative to the input shaft 106 in a first direction. The housing 112 may then be configured to limit movement of the input shaft bearing 1002 relative to the input shaft 106 in a second direction opposite the first direction. In some embodiments, the input shaft bearing 1002 may be positioned such that there is a space between the generator assembly 700 and the housing 112. The input shaft bearing 1002 may allow the input shaft 106 to rotate freely relative to the housing 112. The input shaft bearing 1002 may be a ball bearing, roller bearing, needle bearing, taper bearing, thrust bearing, sliding bearing, magnetic bearing, or the like.

First drive shaft 302 may have a respective first drive shaft bearing 1004 and second drive shaft 308 may have a respective second drive shaft bearing 1006 configured to axially and radially position associated first drive shaft 302 and second drive shaft 308 relative to input shaft 106. For example, the first drive shaft bearing 1004 may be configured to axially and radially position the first drive shaft 302 such that the teeth of the first drive gear 304 engage the teeth of the first ring gear 202 and such that the teeth of the third drive gear 314 engage the teeth of the third ring gear 206. The second drive shaft bearing 1006 may be configured to axially and radially position the second drive shaft 308 relative to the input shaft 106 such that the teeth of the second drive gear 312 engage the teeth of the second ring gear 204. First and second drive shaft bearings 1004, 1006 may also be configured to position first and second drive shafts 302, 308 relative to each other such that the teeth of first and second transfer gears 306, 310 engage each other.

In some embodiments, first drive shaft 302 and/or second drive shaft 308 may include one or more gear spacers 1008 disposed axially along first drive shaft 302 and/or second drive shaft 308. Gear spacer 1008 may be configured to axially position first transfer gear 304, first transfer gear 306, second transfer gear 310, second transfer gear 312, and/or third transfer gear 314 along respective first drive shaft 302 and second drive shaft 308. In some embodiments, one or more of the gears 304, 306, 310, 312, 314 may be positioned in another manner, such as an interference fit (e.g., press fit, friction fit, etc.), a hardware connection (e.g., set screw, pin, collar, snap ring, clip, etc.), and/or a shaft geometry (e.g., complementary shaft cross-section, key, groove, etc.).

Fig. 12 shows energy conversion device 100 mounted to a side wall 1202 of housing 112. Sidewall 1202 may include an adjustment block 1204 configured to adjust a radial position of first drive shaft 302 and/or second drive shaft 308 relative to input shaft 106. For example, adjustment block 1204 may provide tension on first driveshaft bearing 1004 and second driveshaft bearing 1006 in a radial direction toward input shaft 106. After energy conversion device 100 has been assembled, adjustment block 1204 may allow for adjustment of the radial position of first drive shaft 302 and/or second drive shaft 308. For example, the radial position of first drive shaft 302 and/or second drive shaft 308 may be adjusted to account for wear of associated gears 304, 306, 310, 312, 314 or wear of first ring gear 202, second ring gear 204, or third ring gear 206.

The side wall 1202 may include an adjustment channel 1206. Adjustment channel 1206 may allow an operator to access and/or adjust the adjustment block 1204. For example, adjustment block 1204 may include tensioner hardware, such as a set screw, screw tensioner, spring, or the like. Adjustment channel 1206 can allow an operator to insert a tool to adjust the tensioner hardware. Thus, the radial tension on first drive shaft 302 and/or second drive shaft 308 may be adjusted via adjustment passage 1206.

In some embodiments, adjustment block 1204 may be self-adjusting. For example, adjustment block 1204 may include a tension assembly configured to provide a constant pressure (e.g., a radial force) on first driveshaft bearing 1004 and/or second driveshaft bearing 1006. The tension assembly may include elements configured to provide a constant radial pressure on set block 1204, such as one or more springs, hydraulic devices (e.g., cylinders, pistons, fluids, etc.).

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include an energy conversion device for converting oscillatory motion (such as vibration, wave motion, etc.) into rotational motion. For example, the input arms 102, 108 may capture the oscillatory motion and transfer the oscillatory motion to the input shaft 106 as an oscillatory rotational motion. For each of the ring gears 202, 204, 206, the oscillating rotational motion may be converted to unidirectional rotational motion. As described above, the second ring gear 204 may rotate in the opposite direction to the first and third ring gears 202, 206 such that the relative rotational speed between the armature 702 of the second ring gear 204 and the plate magnets 402, 704 of the first and third ring gears 204, 206 is greater. Rotation of the plate magnets 402, 704 relative to the armature 702 may generate electricity.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may allow for smaller oscillations to generate energy by capturing energy from motion in both directions, such that a more constant rotation may be generated in the generator assembly 700. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may allow for capturing vehicle vibrations caused by imperfections in the driving surface and generating electricity. Unlike available techniques for capturing energy from braking, which is only available for a short time while operating the vehicle (e.g., braking), embodiments of the present disclosure may allow the vehicle to capture electrical energy at any time the vehicle is moving.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may also improve the energy capture efficiency of larger oscillations. For example, tidal generators typically use waves to generate pressure in a hydraulic system, and then use the pressurized hydraulic fluid to power a pump to turn the generator. Converting the energy of the waves by means of a hydraulic system can lose a large amount of energy. Embodiments of the present disclosure may allow the energy of the waves to be mechanically captured and directly converted into the rotation of the generator. The mechanical conversion of energy may be significantly more efficient. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure can generate significantly more available electrical energy from waves than conventional tidal generators.

Fig. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a first ring gear assembly 1300. The first ring gear assembly 1300 may include the input shaft 106, a first ring gear 1304, and a drive member 1308. The input shaft 106 may be coupled to a drive member 1308. In some embodiments, the drive member 1308 can include a cylindrical member (e.g., a disc).

The first ring gear 1304 may be disposed about a circumference of the drive member 1308. For example, the first ring gear 1304 and the drive member 1308 may be concentric and coaxial. Further, the first ring gear 1304 may be fixed relative to the drive member 1308 when the drive member 1308 rotates in a first direction about the central axis of the input shaft 106, and the first ring gear 1304 may be free relative to the drive member 1308 when the drive member 1308 rotates in a second, opposite direction. For example, in some embodiments, the first ring gear assembly 1300 may include a first set of linear bearings 1310 that rotationally couple the first ring gear 1304 to the drive member 1308. The first set of linear bearings 1310 may prevent the first ring gear 1304 from rotating relative to the drive member 1308 when the drive member 1308 rotates in a first direction, and the first set of linear bearings 1310 may allow the first ring gear 1304 to rotate relative to the drive member 1308 when the drive member 1308 rotates in a second, opposite direction.

In some embodiments, each of the first set of linear bearings 1310 may include a shell-type roller clutch. For example, each linear bearing of the first set of linear bearings 1310 may include a roller 1302 and a spring 1306. The roller 1302 may be configured to wedge between the first ring gear 1304 and the drive member 1308 when the drive member 1308 rotates in a first direction to prevent the first ring gear 1304 from rotating relative to the drive member 1308. For example, a positive wedge force may substantially prevent the first ring gear 1304 from rotating relative to the drive member 1308. When the drive member 1308 is rotated in a first direction, the spring 1306 may hold the roller 1302 in place for at least substantially instantaneous locking. Further, the roller 1302 may operate as a bearing and may allow the first ring gear 1304 to rotate relative to the drive member 1308 when the drive member 1308 rotates in a second, opposite direction. For example, the roller 1302 may allow the first ring gear 1304 to freely overrun the drive member 1308 when the drive member 1308 rotates in a second, opposite direction.

Fig. 14 illustrates an embodiment of energy conversion device 100 in which several walls of housing 112 are removed to view internal components, such as generator assembly 700, first drive shaft 302, and second drive shaft 308. In some embodiments, rotational motion may be input directly from the input arm 102 into the input shaft 106. For example, the input arm 102 may be coupled to an oscillating component, such as a suspension arm on a vehicle. In some embodiments, the input arm 102 may be an oscillating component, such as a suspension arm of a vehicle.

Energy conversion device 100 may capture motion of a suspension arm of a vehicle and convert the motion into electrical power. In some embodiments, the power may be used to power in-vehicle electronics such as stereos, infotainment systems, lights, and the like. For example, the power generated by energy conversion device 100 may reduce the power drawn from the vehicle battery when the vehicle is in motion. In some embodiments, the power generated by energy conversion device 100 may be used to charge a rechargeable battery of a vehicle (e.g., an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle).

The power generation by the vibration of the vehicle can reduce the consumption of the vehicle battery, and can reduce the fuel consumption. In some embodiments, such as hybrid electric vehicles, power generation via vibration may extend the time that the vehicle is operating in an electric-only mode or a reduced engine capacity mode, thereby improving the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. For example, hybrid electric vehicles are typically more fuel efficient in stop-and-go or urban traffic than at highway or highway speeds due, at least in part, to the ability of the hybrid electric vehicle to capture energy from braking. Capturing energy from vibrations may allow hybrid electric vehicles to efficiently capture energy at highway speeds, where many vehicles operate for longer periods of time and over greater distances, thereby improving fuel efficiency at highway speeds. In an electric-only vehicle, power generation through vibration of the vehicle may increase the range of the vehicle and/or extend the operating time of the battery.

Fig. 15 shows an embodiment of energy conversion device 100 incorporated into an automotive suspension system 1500. Suspension system 1500 may include a suspension arm 1504 coupled between a frame 1508 and a wheel 1502. The suspension system 1500 may also include a spring 1510 and an extendable arm 1506.

The frame 1508 may be fixed relative to an associated vehicle. The suspension arm 1504 may be configured to rotate relative to the frame 1508 such that the wheel 1502 may travel vertically relative to the frame 1508. In some embodiments, the suspension arm 1504 may be coupled to the input arm 102 of the energy conversion device 100. In some embodiments, the suspension arm 1504 may be directly coupled to the input shaft 106 of the energy conversion apparatus 100 such that the suspension arm 1504 may act as the input arm 102 of the energy conversion apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the suspension arm 1504 may be coupled to the input shaft 106 through the input gear 104.

As the wheel 1502 moves in an upward direction, the suspension arm 1504 may rotate the input shaft 106 in a first direction. As the wheel 1502 moves in a downward direction, the suspension arm 1504 may rotate the input shaft 106 in a second direction. As described above, energy conversion apparatus 100 may be configured to convert alternating rotational directions into unidirectional rotation of generator assembly 700. The generator assembly 700 may be configured to generate electrical power when the generator assembly 700 is rotated. In a vehicle, the power output from the generator assembly 700 may be coupled to a power storage device, such as a battery, battery pack, battery cell, or the like.

In some embodiments, the extendable arm 1506 may include a damping feature (e.g., shock absorber, strut, hydraulic damper, etc.). In some embodiments, the resistance to motion provided by generator assembly 700 may provide damping for suspension system 1500, and extendable arms 1506 may position the top of wheels 1502. In some embodiments, suspension system 1500 may include upper and lower suspension arms 1504, such as a double wishbone suspension system. In some embodiments, suspension system 1500 may not include extendable arm 1506. For example, in a double wishbone suspension, a damping effect may be provided by the energy conversion device 100, and the wheel 1502 may be positioned by the upper and lower suspension arms 1504.

Fig. 16 shows an embodiment of a suspension system 1500. The suspension arm 1504 may input rotational motion to the input shaft 106 of the energy conversion device 100 through the input gear 104. For example, the suspension arm 1504 may include a linear gear 1602 coupled to the suspension arm 1504. The linear gear 1602 may include a plurality of teeth 1604. The teeth 1604 of the linear gear 1602 may be configured to operably engage the teeth 1606 of the input gear 104, resulting in a rack and pinion engagement, where the rack corresponds to the linear gear 1602 and the pinion corresponds to the input gear 104. The linear gear 1602 may rotate the input gear 104 as the suspension arm 1504 moves radially with vertical movement of the wheel 1502. Input gear 104 may be coupled to input shaft 106 such that rotation of input gear 104 is transmitted to energy conversion device 100 through input shaft 106.

Fig. 17 shows an embodiment of a suspension system 1500. In some embodiments, the suspension arm 1504 may be coupled directly to the input shaft 106. For example, the input shaft 106 may pass through a bushing 1702 in the frame 1508. Bushing 1702 may be positioned at coupling point 1704 where suspension arm 1504 is coupled to frame 1508. The suspension arm 1504 may rotate relative to the frame 1508 about an axis 1706. The input shaft 106 may be arranged coaxially with the axis of rotation 1706 of the suspension arm 1504 such that when the suspension arm 1504 rotates, the suspension arm 1504 may rotate the input shaft 106. The input shaft 106 may transfer motion of the suspension arm 1504 to the energy conversion device 100, which may convert the motion to electrical power, as described above.

Fig. 18 shows a tidal generator 1800 comprising the energy conversion device 100. The tidal generator 1800 may include a float 1802 coupled to the input arm 108 of the energy conversion device 100 by a coupling arm 1804. In some embodiments, the coupling arm 1804 can be configured to allow the float 1802 to rotate relative to the input arm 108, such as through one or more joints (e.g., a ball joint, a rod end bearing, a ball-and-socket joint, a fisheye joint, etc.). In some embodiments, vertical movement of the float 1802 may be transferred to the input arm 108 such that the input arm 108 may rotate relative to the energy conversion device 100. The input arm 108 may be coupled to a multiplier gear 110. Multiplier gear 110 is operably engaged with input gear 104. For example, the teeth of multiplier gear 110 may engage with the teeth of input gear 104 such that rotation of multiplier gear 110 may be transferred to input gear 104 through the engagement between multiplier gear 110 and the teeth of input gear 104.

The buoy 1802 can move vertically with waves in a body of water (e.g., ocean, sea, lake, river, etc.). In some embodiments, the waves may generate a large amount of force. In some embodiments, the waves may move the float 1802 relatively slowly compared to the movement of the automotive suspension described above with reference to fig. 15. Multiplier gear 110 may allow the slower movement of the waves to rotate input shaft 106 at a higher speed. For example, as the diameter of multiplier gear 110 increases, the tangential velocity of the teeth of multiplier gear 110 may increase. The tangential velocity can be transferred to the teeth of the smaller input gear 104. The smaller input gear 104 may rotate at a higher rotational speed than the multiplier gear 110 to maintain the same tangential velocity of the teeth of the multiplier gear 110.

When waves move the float 1802 vertically up and down in a wave or oscillatory motion, the input arm 108 may rotate the multiplier gear 110 in a first direction and/or a second direction in response to the movement of the float 1802. Multiplier gear 110 may transfer rotational motion to input gear 104 through the teeth of multiplier gear 110 and input gear 104. Input gear 104 may then transfer rotational motion to energy conversion device 100 via input shaft 106. As described above, energy conversion device 100 may then convert the oscillating rotation of input shaft 106 into electrical power via generator assembly 700.

Fig. 19, 20, and 21 show views of a wave motion utilization device 1900 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The wave motion harnessing apparatus 1900 may include a buoy 1902, a lever arm 1906, a base system 1914, a plurality of hydraulic assemblies 1908, and a plurality of energy conversion hydraulic assemblies 1908. Lever arm 1906 can be rotatably coupled to base system 1914 and can be coupled to float 1902 such that a wave can raise and lower float 1902, and thus rotate lever arm 1906 about base system 1914. The lever arm 1906 may be engaged with an input shaft 1916 of the energy conversion device 1912. In some embodiments, lever arm 1906 may be engaged with one or more hydraulic assemblies 1908.

In some embodiments, each of the plurality of hydraulic assemblies 1908 may include a hydraulic line 1918 and a hydraulically operated piston 1904 on each end of the hydraulic line 1918. One end of one piston 1904 and hydraulic line 1918 may be connected to the float 1902, and the other end of the other piston 1904 and hydraulic line 1918 may be connected to the base system 1914 and may be engaged with an input shaft, input gear, multiplier gear, etc. of one or more of the energy conversion devices 1910. Further, energy conversion device 1910 may operate via any of the manners described above with respect to fig. 1-14.

In some embodiments, a plurality of hydraulic components 1908 may be connected to the float 1902 in a diamond pattern centered on the lever arm 1906. In operation, the waveform may tilt the float 1902 and may cause the piston 1904 to push or pull hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic line 1918. Pushing and pulling hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic line 1918 may cause the piston 2002 at the base system 1914 to move the input arm, input gear, and/or input shaft of one or more of the energy conversion devices 1910.

The wave motion utilization device 1900 may capture the primary vertical oscillation of the waves through the lever arm 1906 and convert the motion into electrical energy through the energy conversion device 1912, which is coupled to the lever arm 1906 through the input shaft 1916. In addition, the wave motion utilization device 1900 may also capture secondary oscillations or fluctuations of the waves that cause the float 1902 to pivot relative to the lever arm 1906 via the hydraulic assembly 1908 and convert the motion to electrical energy via the energy conversion device 1910 coupled to the hydraulic line 1918.

Capturing both the primary vertical oscillations of the waves and the secondary oscillations or undulations of the waves may increase the electrical energy generated by the single wave motion utilization device 1900. Increasing the energy generated by the wave motion harnessing apparatus 1900 may increase the amount of renewable energy available and reduce reliance on other forms of energy. Further increasing the energy generated by the wave motion utilization device 1900 may reduce the number of wave motion utilization devices 1900 required for any given area, thereby reducing the environmental impact of the wave motion utilization devices 1900 and the impact of the wave motion utilization devices 1900 on wildlife in the area surrounding the wave motion utilization devices 1900.

Embodiments of the present disclosure include the following:

embodiment 1: an energy conversion assembly, comprising: a frame member; an input shaft coupled to a control arm, wherein the control arm is configured to move relative to the frame member; a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first direction limiting device; wherein the first direction limiting device is configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction; a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft through a second direction limiting device; wherein the second direction limiting device is configured to allow rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction; a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear; a second transfer gear engaged with the second ring gear; a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear; and a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the conversion gear.

Embodiment 2. the energy conversion assembly of embodiment 1, wherein the input arm is a suspension arm of a vehicle.

Embodiment 3. the energy conversion assembly of embodiment 2, wherein the energy conversion assembly is configured to dampen oscillations of a suspension of the vehicle by generating electricity.

Embodiment 4. the energy conversion assembly of any of embodiments 1-3, wherein at least one of the first and second direction limiting devices comprises a one-way bearing.

Embodiment 5 the energy conversion assembly of any of embodiments 1-4, wherein the first ring gear includes a plate magnet.

Embodiment 6 the energy conversion assembly of any of embodiments 1-5, wherein the second ring gear includes an armature.

Embodiment 7 the energy conversion assembly of any of embodiments 5 or 6, wherein the plate magnet comprises a plurality of permanent magnets.

Embodiment 8 the energy conversion assembly of embodiment 7, wherein the plurality of permanent magnets are radially arranged about a central axis of the plate magnet.

Embodiment 9 the energy conversion assembly of any of embodiments 7 or 8, wherein the plate magnets further comprise a ferromagnetic core.

Embodiment 10 the energy conversion assembly of any of embodiments 1-9, further comprising at least one adjustment block configured to adjust a radial position between the drive shaft and the input shaft.

Embodiment 11 a tidal power generator comprising: a float; a multiplier gear operably coupled to the float; an input gear operably engaged with the multiplier gear; the input gear is operatively coupled to an input shaft; a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first one-way bearing; wherein the first one-way bearing is configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and to substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction; a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a second one-way bearing; wherein the second one-way bearing is configured to permit rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and to substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction; a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear; a second transfer gear engaged with the second ring gear; a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear; and a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the conversion gear.

Embodiment 12 the tidal generator of embodiment 11, wherein the first ring gear comprises a plate magnet configured to rotate with the first ring gear.

Embodiment 13 the tidal generator of embodiment 12, wherein the second ring gear comprises an armature configured to rotate with the second ring gear.

Embodiment 14 the tidal generator of embodiment 13, wherein the armature comprises a plurality of coils.

Embodiment 15 the tidal generator of embodiment 14, wherein the plurality of coils are arranged radially around the central axis of the second ring gear.

Embodiment 16 the tidal generator of any one of embodiments 14 or 15, wherein the plurality of coils are formed of an electrically conductive material.

Embodiment 17 the tidal generator of any one of embodiments 14 to 16, wherein the plurality of coils are coupled to one or more transmission rings.

Embodiment 18 the tidal generator of embodiment 17, wherein the one or more transmission rings are configured to provide power to the external component through the brushes.

Embodiment 19. the tidal generator of any one of embodiments 11 to 18, further comprising: a lever arm operably coupled between the float and the multiplier gear; at least one hydraulic assembly coupled to the float; and at least one energy conversion device coupled to the at least one hydraulic assembly; wherein the float is configured to pivot relative to the lever arm, and the at least one hydraulic component is configured to transmit motion caused by the float pivoting relative to the lever arm to the at least one energy conversion device, and the at least one energy conversion device is configured to convert the motion into electrical energy.

Embodiment 20 a generator, comprising: an input gear operatively coupled to the input shaft; an oscillating member operably coupled to the input gear; a first ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a first one-way bearing; wherein the first one-way bearing is configured to allow rotation of the first ring gear in a first direction and to substantially inhibit rotation of the first ring gear in a second direction; at least one magnet coupled to the first ring gear and configured to rotate with the first ring gear; a second ring gear coupled to the input shaft by a second one-way bearing; wherein the second one-way bearing is configured to permit rotation of the second ring gear in the second direction and to substantially inhibit rotation of the second ring gear in the first direction; an armature coupled to the second ring gear and configured to rotate with the second ring gear; a first transmission gear engaged with the first ring gear; a second transfer gear engaged with the second ring gear; a transfer gear operably coupled to the second drive gear; and a drive shaft coupled to the first drive gear and the conversion gear.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may allow for capturing and converting oscillatory motion into electrical energy. Capturing oscillatory motion may allow more energy to be generated from natural phenomena such as tides, waves, wind, etc. Capturing oscillatory motion may also reduce kinetic energy losses due to mechanical movement (such as automotive suspension, structural movement, etc.). Capturing oscillatory motion may allow for the development of more clean energy and increase the efficiency of operating systems, such as hybrid electric vehicles.

The embodiments of the present disclosure described above and illustrated in the drawings do not limit the scope of the disclosure, which is encompassed by the scope of the appended claims and their legal equivalents. Any equivalent embodiments are within the scope of the present disclosure. Indeed, various modifications of the disclosure, in addition to those shown and described herein, such as alternative useful combinations of the elements described, will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the description. Such modifications and embodiments are also within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.