Pelamis Wave Energy Converter - Verification of full-scale control using a 7th scale model: Final Report

Abstract:

The Pelamis Wave Energy Converter (WEC) is an innovative concept for extracting energy from ocean waves and converting it into a useful product such as electricity, direct hydraulic pressure or potable water. The system is a semi-submerged, articulated structure composed of cylindrical sections linked by hinged joints. The wave-induced motion of these joints is resisted by hydraulic rams that pump high-pressure oil through hydraulic motors via smoothing accumulators. The hydraulic motors drive electrical generators to product electricity. The complete machine is flexibly moored so as to swing head-on to the incoming waves and derives its 'reference' from spanning successive wave crests.

The Pelamis WEC development programme OPD identified a requirement for an intermediate scale 'systems' demonstrator with which to develop and prove the full-scale Pelamis hydraulic, control and data acquisition systems. A 7^th scale model was conceived to satisfy the OPD ethos of systematically tackling each aspect of technical risk before committing to a full-scale prototype. It is seen as absolutely critical to the overall success of the technical programme that as little immature technology as possible is incorporated within the first full-scale prototype.

In addition, during the programme of work undertaken here it was felt that further control studies using and updated version of the 20^th scale model also had considerable merit.

The overall objectives of the project were:

• A1. Summary
• A2. 7^th Scale Model General Configuration
• A3. Model Upgrades
• A4. Transport & Installation
• A5. Testing & Analysis
• A6. Conclusions
• B1. Introduction
• B2. Testing & Analysis
• B3. Model Decommissioning & Maintenance
• B4. Conclusions
• Project Conclusions
• Recommendations for Future Work

Publication Year:

2005

Publisher:

Department of Trade and Industry

DOI:

No DOI minted

Author(s):

DTI