Hydromechanic-electric power converter

A system for the direct conversion of sea wave to electric power by means of piezoelectric film is described. Optimisation of film properties and converter geometry leads to a system, which generates 100 W electric power with 1 kg film. This system can be used as power supply for buoys. Difficulties caused by the difference between high and low water can be overcome by arranging piezoelectric film ropes or lamella as spring of a seismic system in the interior of the buoys. The theoretical assumptions are confirmed by model experiments. The main advantage of this simple power supply is that it needs no primary energy and no maintenance.