Design, Modeling and Optimization of an Ocean Wave Power Generation Buoy

    Authors

    C. Velez; Z. H. Qu; K. C. Lin;S. Y. Jin

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    Mar. Technol. Soc. J.

    Keywords

    buoy; ocean wave energy; permanent magnetic generator; load control; wave power generation; MAGNET LINEAR GENERATOR; ENERGY-CONVERSION; SEA WAVES; DRIVE; CONVERTERS; Engineering, Ocean; Oceanography

    Abstract

    Ocean waves provide an abundant, clean, and renewable source of energy. Existing systems, typically hydraulic turbines powered by high-pressure fluids, are very large in size and costly. Additionally, they require large ocean waves in which to operate. This paper details the design, development, and laboratory prototype testing of a wave power generation system comprising a buoy that houses a set of mechanical devices and a permanent magnetic generator. The buoy, floating on the surface of the ocean, utilizes the vertical movement of ocean waves to pull on a chain anchored to the ocean floor. The linear motion is translated into rotation, which rotates a shaft to move armature coils within the generator to produce an electric current. The amount of energy generated increases with wave height and input frequency. The flywheel inertia, shaft rotation speed, and electrical load are optimized to provide maximize electricity production. The paper addresses the design, analysis, and implementation of mechanical and electrical systems, together with resistive load control, system optimization, and performance analysis. Both simulation and experimental results are provided and compared.

    Journal Title

    Marine Technology Society Journal

    Volume

    48

    Issue/Number

    4

    Publication Date

    1-1-2014

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    51

    Last Page

    60

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000342656700009

    ISSN

    0025-3324

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