Prof John Ringwood, Dept of Electronic Engineering, NUI Maynooth

Note start time = 2.00 pm

Title: Optimisation of wave energy devices

Abstract:

This seminar examines a simple model of an idealised point-absorber
wave energy device. The objective of the research is to examine how
the device can be optimised in order to extract maximum energy from
incident waves. This applies to both the broad design parameters of
the buoy and also to the synthesis of the damping function, in which
the wave energy is converted. The issue of the adjustment of the
phase of the velocity evolution with respect to the incident force
(known as phase control) is dealt with in detail, with the intention
of optimising the damping force over the wave cycle. The research
ultimately attempts to parameterise the optimal damping force in
terms of incident wave frequency and device parameters.