DESIGN OF AN OCEAN WAVE ENERGY CONVERTER – THE PRELIMINARY STUDY

Abstract

Wave Energy Converters (WEC) are devices that harvest the different energies that are associated with moving waves, such as kinetic energy and potential energy, and converting them into useful mechanical and electrical energies. Considering that the ocean and sea are covering around 71 percent of the earth, it is unavoidable to consider it as the main source of renewable energy. This report starts with reviewing a few of the most recent WECs. In the analysis section, it shows a device that functions using pistons to run a hydraulic motor, which then runs a generator in a system. The device is further modified by attaching a rotating mass, which is directly connected to a generator. It is a hybrid device using technologies of both the Pelamis and the Penguin. The power output calculated for the system is 177 kW, which is quiet reasonable considering the wave conditions at Fujairah’s sea shore in United Arab Emirates.