To main content

A harmonic pressure differential wave energy converter

Abstract

A pressure differential sea wave energy converter concept using the forced harmonic motion of a hydraulic water column and hydraulic piston is presented. The mechanical power from the hydraulic piston is converted to electrical power by a linear induction generator. The equation of motion, and electrical power generated are derived in terms of design dimensions and mechanical properties of the wave energy converter. The frequency response of the system is modelled numerically for a variety of wave frequencies, and its time response is modelled using a simple Euler method numerical model. It was found that the wave energy converter yields a maximum conversion efficiency of 27 %% and a prompt transient response to actuation with waves around its natural frequency. High survivability and reduced visual and water-surface impact are likely advantages of this design concept, since all mechanical components may be incorporated into the sea-floor and shoreline.
Read publication

Category

Academic article

Language

English

Author(s)

  • Alessandro Schönborn

Affiliation

  • SINTEF Energy Research / Gassteknologi

Year

2017

Published in

International Journal of Marine Energy

ISSN

2214-1669

Volume

19

Page(s)

47 - 54

View this publication at Cristin