Experimental Study of the Weptos Wave Energy Converter

• Main Authors: Pecher, Arthur, Kofoed, Jens Peter, Larsen, Tommy, Marchalot, Tanguy
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: American Society of Mechanical Engineers 2012
• Subjects: Wave Energy Converter; WEPTOS; Prototype Testings; Arctic
• Online Access: https://vbn.aau.dk/da/publications/7e79cf7c-b607-489f-9762-8cad0b45300a; http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=84860870112&partnerID=8YFLogxK

This paper presents the power performance results of the experimental study of the WEPTOS wave energy converter (WEC). This novel device combines an established and efficient wave energy absorbing mechanism with an adjustable structure that can regulate the amount of incoming wave energy and reduce loads in extreme wave conditions. This A-shaped floating structure absorbs the energy in the waves through a multitude of rotors, the shape of which is based on the renowned Salter’s Duck. These rotors pivot around a common axle, one for each leg of the structure, to which the rotors transfer the absorbed wave energy and which is connected to a common power take off system (one for each leg). The study investigates the performance of the device in a large range of wave states and estimates the performance in terms of mechanical power available to the power take off system of the WEPTOS WEC for two locations of interest. These are a generic offshore location in the Danish part of the North Sea (Point 3) and the location of the Danish wave energy centre (DanWEC) in front of Hanstholm harbour.