Wave energy converter system

Abstract

The invention is a wave energy device which optimizes energy conversion from waves with a stable submerged platform coupled to compliant chain of floats (“pods”) which are connected to the platform by piston pumps. Wave action drives pumps to deliver pressurized water to a hydro turbine coupled to an electric generator for delivery of electric power to shore via a submarine cable. Alternatively, the pressurized water may be delivered to shore through pipes on the ocean floor, to generate electric power, also as input flow for reverse osmosis potable water production and for cooling applications.

I claim: 
     
         1 . A pod for use in a wave energy converter system, the pod comprising:
 a ball connector and a sliding track mounted on two opposite ends of the pod, wherein the ball connector and the sliding track permit the pod to pitch within a predetermined arc, and   wherein the sliding track may vary from an engaged state and a disengaged state, the disengaged state allowing the ball connector on the sliding track to shift forward and allow the pod to weathervane in response to buoyancy and hydrodynamic forces of a wave.   
     
     
         2 . The pod of  claim 1 , wherein the disengaged state is triggered by a central control command. 
     
     
         3 . The pod of  claim 1 , wherein the arc is ninety degrees. 
     
     
         4 . The pod of  claim 1 , further comprising a means for varying the displacement of the pod. 
     
     
         5 . A pod for use in a wave energy converter system, the pod comprising:
 a float, wherein the float has a width, a length, and a depth, the length being greater the width, the width being greater than the depth, and wherein the float is adapted to lie flat on a water surface.   
     
     
         6 . The pod of  claim 5 , wherein the float is shaped as a tri-axial ellipsoid with distinct semi-axes A, B, and C, wherein the length of axis C is greater than the length of axis B, and the length of axis B is greater than the length of axis A.