Optimization of wave energy harvest of wave energy converter by floating shape and arrangement

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21K14356
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 24020:Marine engineering-related
• Research Institution: Yokohama National University (2023); The University of Tokyo (2021-2022)
• Principal Investigator: LI QIAO 横浜国立大学, 大学院工学研究院, 准教授 (40832340)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 波力発電 / 浮体運動

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Among natural energy sources, wave power has a high energy density, making it possible to extract a large amount of energy from a small volume with a wave energy converter (WEC). This study focused on a point absorber-type WEC. We aimed to clarify the movement of the power-generating float and its power-generation performance through control.
A wave power generation model was created, in which the float and control motor were connected using a rack and pinion mechanism. The basic movement and power generation performance of the WEC were investigated through small-scale water tank experiments. It was confirmed that the float's displacement and power generation output were maximized during the heave natural period. It was also experimentally confirmed that the heave natural period can be adjusted through control. This suggests that highly efficient power generation can be achieved over a wide range of wave periods by adjusting the control to match the wave period.

Free Research Field

海洋工学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究により、波力発電における制御浮体模型の開発と小型水槽での実験方法を提案した。今後は本実験方法を用いて、複数機によるアレイ制御理論の確認や、浮体形状の検討など、波力発電における研究開発への応用が期待される。