Arthur Pecher

Experimental Study of the WEPTOS Wave Energy Converter

This paper presents the power performance results of the experimental study of the WEPTOS wave energy converter (WEC). This novel device combines an established and efficient wave energy absorbing mechanism with an adjustable structure that can regulate the amount of incoming wave energy and reduce loads in extreme wave conditions. This A-shaped floating structure absorbs the energy in the waves through a multitude of rotors, the shape of which is based on the renowned Salter’s Duck. These rotors pivot around a common axle, one for each leg of the structure, to which the rotors transfer the absorbed wave energy and which is connected to a common power take off system (one for each leg). The study investigates the performance of the device in a large range of wave states and estimates the performance in terms of mechanical power available to the power take off system of the WEPTOS WEC for two locations of interest. These are a generic offshore location in the Danish part of the North Sea (Point 3) and the location of the Danish wave energy centre (DanWEC) in front of Hanstholm harbour.Copyright

Techno-Economic Development of WECs

The successful development process of WECs demands large amounts of time and means. The optimal development trajectory manages to keep these expenses to a minimum while delivering an economically viable product at the end of its development. As related expenses (time and money) increase exponentially with the development stages (TRLs) while flexible parameters decrease rapidly, it is of the highest importance to optimise the WEC principles at an early stage (TRL 1-4) up to the level where the economic potential of the WEC is ensured (TPL > 7).

Experimental Testing and Evaluation of WECs

The main objective of a tests campaign is to support the related research and development and to evaluate a particular characteristic or parameter of (a subsystem of) the WEC. These experimental tests can be done in three different environments: in a controlled and wet environment (referred to by tank testing), a controlled and dry environment (referred to by test bench) and in an uncontrollable wet environment (referred to by sea trials). Experimental tests on the full or subsystems of the device can be performed during all the development stages of the WEC, and well beyond.