Abstract:

Ocean wave energy received significant attentions since early 1970’s due to oil crisis and several major inventions later. The demands come from not only industrial and residential sector but also ocean measurement and relevant sensor R&D sectors. However, due to its high cost, ocean wave energy remains not as successful as its sister technology, offshore wind, in the ocean renewable energy world. Therefore, it is extremely important to reduce the cost of wave energy; that is either improve power output or reduce capital cost while they both need a comprehensive understanding of the converters in resonance stage. In this presentation, I will first sketch the wave energy technology from an evolution point of view as well as the key physics within the problem by using floating-point-absorber(FPA) as an example. Then, I will present the detailed numerical method and experimental method. After that, I will analyze the relationship between the FPA performance and transmitting wave. Particularly, near resonance behavior will be extensively discussed. Furthermore, to keep the FPA resonating in a broader bandwidth, I will introduce approaches by using the geometry optimization and system control. Finally, the talk will be finished with a few future topic based on what is presented above.

(Host faculty: Prof. Hongbin LIU)
All Are Welcome!