Machine using tidal energy - reciprocating floater piston with rack and pinion drive,housed in pit

摘要

A pit (P) is dug in the short with its floor (T) below the level of low tide and its mouth above the level of high tide. A piston (F) which is capable of floating in water fits closely in the bore of the pit and is attached to a rack (C) which drives the alternator (A) through the gears (R). The incoming tide pushes the piston (F) upwards and at the same time opens the valve (S) and flows into the space above the piston. As the tide ebbs the weight of water on the piston (F) pushes downwards and on reaching the bottom the valves (S) open and the water flows outwards so that the cycle can be repeated.