connector system for a wave energy converter

Abstract

A connector system is described which is useful in coupling two bodies of a wave energy converter. The system includes at least one cable that is coupled to each of the two bodies and on which are threaded a number of discs. The cable and disc combination provide a stack that allows for a flexing of the two bodies relative to one another yet maintains the two bodies substantially co-linear.

1 . A connection system for coupling components of a wave energy converter of the type having a floating body and a submerged body, the connection system being configured, in use, to provide for a coupling of the floating body to the submerged body and wherein the connection system comprises a plurality of discs threadable on at least one connection cable which is under tension, the connection cable being configured to be coupled at one end to the floating body and at a second end to the submerged body, and wherein the discs are arranged relative to one another to restrict lateral movement of the floating body relative to the submerged body. 
   
   
       2 . The system of  claim 1  wherein the discs are arranged in a stack arrangement. 
   
   
       3 . The system of  claim 2  wherein a compressible layer is provided between adjacent discs such that the discs may flex relative to one another. 
   
   
       4 . The system of  claim 3  wherein the compressible layer is formed from a resilient material. 
   
   
       5 . The system as claimed in  claim 1  wherein at least two cables are provided, the cables being arranged adjacent to a central axis between the two bodies. 
   
   
       6 . The system of  claim 5  wherein the cables are spaced close to one another so as to allow a flexing of the two bodies relative to one another yet still maintains the two bodies substantially co-linear with one another. 
   
   
       7 . (canceled) 
   
   
       8 . The system as claimed in  claim 2  wherein at least two cables provided, the cables being arranged adjacent to a central axis between the two bodies. 
   
   
       9 . The system as claimed in  claim 3  wherein at least two cables provided, the cables being arranged adjacent to a central axis between the two bodies. 
   
   
       10 . The system as claimed in  claim 4  wherein at least two cables provided, the cables being arranged adjacent to a central axis between the two bodies. 
   
   
       11 . The system of  claim 8  wherein the cables are spaced close to one another so as to allow a flexing of the two bodies relative to one another yet still maintains the two bodies substantially co-linear with one another. 
   
   
       12 . The system of  claim 9  wherein the cables are spaced close to one another so as to allow a flexing of the two bodies relative to one another yet still maintains the two bodies substantially co-linear with one another. 
   
   
       13 . The system of  claim 10  wherein the cables are spaced close to one another so as to allow a flexing of the two bodies relative to one another yet still maintains the two bodies substantially co-linear with one another.