| The ocean wave-energy conversion system introduced herein combines the following characteristics: (1) The wave energy is converted to potential energy by increasing the pressure in an air chamber; (2) The generation of electricity is carried out by a Wells turbine coupled to a standard generator; (3) The system includes a horizontal cylinder partially submerged, oscillating in combination of heave and sway motions; (4) High energy conversion efficiency is maintained over a broad range of wave heights, frequencies and directions by tuning the cylinder.;The purpose of this study is to develop analytical models of the efficiency of power absorption by the system from a long crested monochromatic wave. The presence of a piston to produce pressure in the air chamber is also very important as a shield against turbine and generator corrosion. A dynamic analysis is performed, and a computer program developed to check the theoretical bases of the computation. The efficiency is found to vary significantly with wave frequency and, for w = 0.4 Hz in a particular geometric configuration, an efficiency of 0.89 was determined. This study develops techniques that can be used to improve device efficiency by controlling the cylinder's submergence. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)... |
