Modeling of the Efficiency of a submerged ocean wave energy converter
Published: 2013
Publication Name: Marine Technology Society Journal, Special Issue on Marine Renewable Energy Technologies, vol 47, no. 4,
Publication URL: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/mts/mtsj/2013/00000047/00000004/art00018;jsessionid=7inndc9ca5jrp.x-ic-live-02
Abstract:
The RTI G2 is a terminator-type wave energy converter (WEC) that converts energy through a power take-off (PTO) system located within an elongated, wave-front facing compressible air chamber. The compression and expansion of the chamber is driven by both kinetic and potential energy due to the surge and heave wave forces acting on an actuator plate oriented parallel to oncoming waves. The RTI G2 converter is mounted on a stabilizing frame, which may float or be fixed to the seabed and allows the air chamber to be totally submerged below wave troughs during severe seas. The present work examines the performance of the RTI G2 on a fixed frame. Model tests conducted on a 1:8 scale are reviewed, and a mathematical model to describe the performance of the RTI G2 is developed. The experimental results are used for calibration and validation of the mathematical model. Several orientation angles of the compression chamber are modeled, with higher orientation angles yielding better efficiencies at higher wave frequencies. The RTI G2 is a novel WEC concept, and the present work provides the first analytical investigation into its behavior.