Dynamic characterization and performance evaluation of a 10-kW power take-off with mechanical motion rectifier for wave energy conversion. (15th April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Xiaofan; Chen, Chien-An; Chen, Shuo; Xiong, Qiuchi; Huang, Jianuo; Lambert, Scott; Keller, Jonathan; Parker, Robert G.; Zuo, Lei
• Is Part Of: Ocean engineering. Volume 250(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-04-15
• Subjects: Ocean wave energy -- Wave energy converter -- Power take-off -- Dry lab test; Ocean engineering -- Periodicals; Ocean engineering; Periodicals; 620.4162
• DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2022.110983
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-8018

Abstract

Abstract: The power take-off (PTO) is a key component for wave energy converters. In this paper, a compact PTO with mechanical motion rectification rated at 10 kW is designed and prototyped, and characterized. A piecewise nonlinear dynamic model is established to describe its unique dynamic property. A linear hydraulic actuator is adopted in lab testing to drive the prototype and the unknown parameters of the dynamic model are identified. Further verification shows that the model can predict the dynamic performance of the PTO well. The test results show that the mechanical motion rectifier-based PTO can achieve overall energy transfer efficiency as high as 65% in regular waves even when the generator is working below the rated electric load and speed. In the irregular wave test, the PTO achieved the overall energy transfer efficiency of 54%, and the peak-to-average ratio acquired during the test is 12.5. Highlights: Design dynamic analysis, and system characterization of a mechanical Power Take-off. Analysis and verification on the Mechanical Motion Rectifier mechanism. Dry lab test on a large scale prototype under both regular and irregular wave condition. Efficiency of the PTO achieved 65% in the dry lab test.