This invention provides the means by which to convert ocean wave motion into propulsion for light craft, scientific survey-equipment, or life rafts.

The system consists of a light-weight deployable sail that exploits differential wave-motion between the oceans surface and at some depth below the surface, creating a locomotive force to propel a floating platform or vessel with no other source of fuel or motorized assistance. For this reason, the system has an infinite propulsion lifespan, removing this factor as a limiting element in any autonomous system-design. With the addition of a GPS enabled steering mechanism, a craft of the present invention could circumnavigate the globe without ever requiring a drop of fuel.

Due to the design, the system operates better in higher sea states, so weather is not a factor in the longevity or effectiveness of this system. The design is completely scalable, across broad options in material construction, enabling extremely low-cost disposable units for personal life-rafts to very high-end units for long-range sea transport and oceanographic surveying.

File Number: 21070 

Web site: http://techtransfer.universityofcalifornia.edu/...