Make: Projects
Wave Energy Conversion System
This system converts the up and down motion of moderate frequency swells or waves into electricity. The system works by exploiting the changing volume of air in the chamber as waves pass by. Air is forced in through one opening and out through the othe
This description will help teach how to:
- build a containment chamber for the air
- attach generators and flaps
- set up a circuit to light an LED or similar load
Steps
Step #1: Make the containment chamber.
Next
- You want to make a chamber that will be closed on all but the bottom side. The simplest design is a 2’x2’x2’ box with only five sides. Our second design (shown on the left) was more of a trapezoidal prism.
- First, we’ll start with the cap piece. Decide where you want your fans and use the drill and saw to make bores slightly smaller than the fans. Add a small bore for the wires from one fan to come back up through the box.
- Make the side pieces. Assemble the chamber by using screws, wood glue, and wood scraps (for added strength).
