Zot Waves

Background

Wave energy is a renewable power source with high energy density, harnessed by converting the motion of ocean waves into electricity.

Our main objective for the project Zot Waves is to design, simulate, manufacture, and test a small scale wave energy converter. We aim to further improve the living condition of coastal area residents, and workers at sea, by providing stable electrical energy. We also hope to further improve the renewable energy industry by cutting down costs and increasing efficiency of wave energy converters, allowing it to be more accessible to the general public. Current wave energy converters are very large in scale, often needing heavy machinery to deploy or assemble, while costing thousands or even millions of dollars like the PB3 PowerBuoy or the WEPTOS WEC. Unlike these wave energy converters which are used to power the grid, Zot Waves WEC is designed to give people access to clean electricity in order to charge a phone or battery to improve quality of life. Our team hopes that this will inspire interest into clean renewable energy leading to increased electricity access around the globe.

Design

Our design harnesses the energy generated by the heave motion of waves through a buoy system. As the buoy rises due to its inherent buoyancy, it engages a rack gear that drives a gear train connected to a crank generator. The combined weight of the buoy and rack gear then compels the system to descend, reactivating the gear train. By incorporating one-way bearings, both the upward and downward movements contribute to rotating the generator, thereby maximizing electricity production. Additionally, the use of multiple bearings and a linear guide rail minimizes friction, reducing energy losses and enhancing overall system efficiency.

Goal and Objectives

Develop a compact, affordable and user-friendly WEC.
Generate interest in clean energy generation.
Demonstrate a working energy converter prototype that generates a stable output of electricity and is able to charge a cellphone from empty to full within 5 hours.

Proof of Concept:

During the Preliminary Design phase, we identified the gear train and rack & pinion system as the most critical subsystem of the project. As a result, our team prioritized this area for the Proof of Concept prototype.
The working prototype was designed and manufactured to validate the functionality of the subsystem. It integrates a gear train with rack & pinion components, along with one-way bearings to ensure effective and efficient mechanical energy conversion. The system enables the linear motion of the gear rack, both upward and downward to be translated into continuous rotational motion at the output gear shaft. This rotational output will then be connected to a crank generator, facilitating the generation of electricity.
For further technical details, please refer to our Fall Quarter project poster, where design specifications and test results are thoroughly documented.

System Requirements: