A review of wave energy converter technology

Drew, B. , Plummer, A. and Sahinkaya, M. (2009) A review of wave energy converter technology. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part A: Journal of Power and Energy, 223 (8). pp. 887-902. ISSN 0957-6509

Full text not available from this repository

Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1243/09576509JPE782

Abstract

Ocean waves are a huge, largely untapped energy resource, and the potential for extracting energy from waves is considerable. Research in this area is driven by the need to meet renewable energy targets, but is relatively immature compared to other renewable energy tech- nologies. This review introduces the general status of wave energy and evaluates the device types that represent current wave energy converter (WEC) technology, particularly focusing on work being undertaken within the United Kingdom. The possible power take-off systems are identified, followed by a consideration of some of the control strategies to enhance the efficiency of point absorber-type WECs. There is a lack of convergence on the best method of extracting energy from the waves and, although previous innovation has generally focused on the concept and design of the primary interface, questions arise concerning how best to optimize the powertrain. This article concludes with some suggestions of future developments.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	wave energy converter, power-take-off, wave power
Faculty/Department:	Faculty of Environment and Technology > Department of Engineering Design and Mathematics ~Pre-2010 Faculty Structure > Environment and Technology > Bristol Institute of Technology ~Pre-2012 Faculty Structure > Faculty of Environment and Technology > Department of Engineering Design and Mathematics
ID Code:	12191
Deposited By:	Dr B. Drew
Deposited On:	09 Dec 2010 16:42
Last Modified:	15 Mar 2013 11:46