Wave device could deliver wave energy to thousands
13. 2. 2019 | University of Edinburgh | www.ed.ac.uk
A wave energy technology is being developer by engineers from the University of Edinburgh and from Italy that could help generate low-cost electricity for thousands of houses.
The device – known as a Dielectric Elastomer Generator (DEG) – uses flexible rubber membranes. It is designed to fit on top of a vertical tube which, when placed in the sea, partially fills with water that rises and falls with wave motion. As the membrane inflates, a voltage is generated. This increases as the membrane deflates, and electricity is produced.
It is designed to be incorporated into existing ocean energy systems and can convert wave power into electricity. Engineers say that their design could be used in fleets of low-cost, easily maintained structures at sea within decades, to take advantage of powerful waves in Scottish waters.
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