Investigation on the energy absorption performance of a fixed-bottom pressure-differential wave energy converter. (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Babarit, A.; Wendt, F.; Yu, Y.-H.; Weber, J.
• Is Part Of: Applied ocean research. Volume 65(2017)
• Page Start: 90
• Page End: 101
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: Renewable energy -- Wave energy converter -- Pressure differential -- Numerical model -- Optimization -- Energy performance; Ocean engineering -- Periodicals; 620.416205
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apor.2017.03.017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0141-1187

Abstract

Abstract : Highlights: We investigate the energy performance of a fixed-bottom pressure-differential wave energy converter. Two versions of the technology are considered: one has the moving surfaces on the bottom of the air chambers whereas the other has the moving surfaces on the top. We developed wave-to-wire models and optimized the design. Results indicate that the pressure-differential wave energy converter is a highly efficient technology both with respect to energy and economic performance. Abstract: In this article, we investigate the energy absorption performance of a fixed-bottom pressure-differential wave energy converter. Two versions of the technology are considered: one has the moving surfaces on the bottom of the air chambers whereas the other has the moving surfaces on the top. We developed numerical models in the frequency domain, thereby enabling the power absorption of the two versions of the device to be assessed. It is observed that the moving surfaces on the top allow for easier tuning of the natural period of the system. Taking into account stroke limitations, the design is optimized. Results indicate that the pressure-differential wave energy converter is a highly efficient technology both with respect to energy absorption and selected economic performance indicators.