A Joint Numerical and Experimental Study of a Surging Point Absorbing Wave Energy Converter (WRASPA) - Final Report

Abstract:

This is the final report for the project 'A Joint Numerical and Experimental Study of a Surging Point Absorbing Wave Energy Converter (WRASPA)'. There is growing acceptance both within the UK and overseas that all possible alternative sources of energy that do not produce greenhouse gases, should be developed and exploited. The power in sea waves is a very large renewable global resource. The UK has the greatest wave-power resource of any country in Europe; it is thus uniquely positioned to benefit from wave-power technology. Such technology would bring further economic benefit by exporting wave-power technology and devices. Ideally, the industry needs a range of devices suitable for operating in a variety of weather, geomorphic, and hydrodynamic conditions. The main goal of this research is to help in achieving this target by creating scientific and technical foundation for a largely overlooked class of wave energy converters that, on the basis of preliminary studies, have very good economic potential. The WRASPA Concept was invented at LU in 2006 following a series of laboratory tests on resonant collectors moving purely in surge. Unlike other sea bed mounted WECs (e.g. Frond, Waveroller, Oyster and BioWave) WRASPA is effectively resonant in surge and tests have shown capture ratios exceeding unity. This report details the methods and results of the project, and includes discussions on its models, alternative forms and concepts, and future work.

Author(s):

Mingham, C. and Aggidis, G.A.