Patent ID: 8826658

Claim:
A generator for converting wave motion in a body of water to useful energy, the generator comprising: a reaction member having adjustable buoyancy to provide at least two buoyancy configurations, said reaction member being arranged for towing across the surface of said body of water and having an upper face which comprises a stable service deck; a float which is capable of movement relative to said reaction member in response to said wave motion; a docking arrangement for said float, configured to secure said float in a stowed position on said service deck, a flexible connecting line connecting said reaction member to said float, said reaction member having inertia and drag to resist up and down movement of said float caused by said wave motion; an energy convertor for converting said relative movement; and a spring for directionally biasing said reaction member relative to said float, wherein said reaction member has (a) a submerged operating configuration, in which said reaction member is suspended from said float by said flexible connecting line at a depth set by the length of said connecting line, and (b) a maximum buoyancy configuration in which said reaction member floats on the surface of said body of water and provides a stable towing arrangement for the generator.