Floating Wave Power Device “Mighty Whale”

Abstract

“Mighty Whale” is a floating Oscillating Water Column (OWC) type wave power device which has a ability absorbing the energy from ocean waves and dissipate the wave height behind the device. So, it can supply the electric energy and can produce the calm sea area for utilizing of coastal zone. Japan Marine Science and Technology Center (JAMSTEC) has put into the project for R&D on Mighty Whale since 1987, and is desighing of the prototype from 1995. So for, we could have a insight on basic behavior, characteristices, safety and economics of the Mighty Whale by theoretical, numerical estimation and evaluation, experimental studies in water tank using the scale models and foundamental discussion on the general design. The construction of the prototype of Mighty Whale will be finished by May 1999, and the open sea test will be carried out by the end of March 2001.This paper describes the project and the design of the prototype of Mighty Whale.