Assessment of a Simplified Model of a Wave Energy Converter in Terms of Hydraulic Mechanical and Electrical Parameters

Abstract

Developing different models of ocean energy converters have been getting much attention in recent times, due to a globally coherent consciousness towards different types of renewable energy sources. Development of any novel concept is preceded by acute understanding of previous yet similar ideas, which in fact is preceded by understanding of simplified observations of those ideas. This paper discusses the principle operation and modeling of a highly portable ocean energy generator called ‘Pelamis Wave Energy Converter’ from a simplistic point of view. The purpose of this paper is to make its readers understand the inherent mathematics and mechanics of a ‘Pelamis wave energy converter’ and preparing a simplified model using ‘Simulink’ software. Along with the modeling this paper also evaluates the output power in terms of different parameters such as hydraulic fluids, levels of input torque, variable wave pressures on the surface, capacitive loads etc.