Design Challenges of Oscillating Arm-Float Wave Energy Converters

EUGENIO MARTIN GELOS; JUDEWICZ, MARCOS GABRIEL; ROBERTO SOSA; DANIEL OSCAR CARRICA

Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires

Workshop; ENAEM COER 2023; 2023

Red de Energías Marinas Argentinas (REMA) - Center for Ocean Energy Research (COER)

Wave energy has gained increasing attention as a sustainable and renewable source of electricity. Oscillating Arm-Float Wave Energy Converters (OAF-WECs) represent a promising technology designed to harness the energy of ocean waves. This work provides an overview of various design challenges associated with OAF-WECs. The fundamental principles of OAF-WEC operation, focusing on the technology's unique characteristics, are initially discussed. Key design challenges related to wave climate, WEC parametrization, and power take-off systems, particularly those incorporating a mechanical motion rectifier, are analyzed. Additionally, recent advancements aimed at overcoming these obstacles are presented. Several question statements are provided to guide future research and development efforts. The insights presented in this work aim to contribute to the ongoing effort of establishing wave energy as a viable and sustainable option of the renewable energy landscape.