Design and Optimisation of a novel Multiple Wave Absorber Platform

This PhD research aims to develop an optimised design of a Multiple Wave Absorber Platform (MWAP) via a combined numerical and physical modelling approach. The device architecture is informed through industrial/commercial collaboration with a world-leading body (Wave Energy Scotland) and will be based on a differential pressure device. This work will aim to achieve a step-change in WEC energy density through the co-location of multiple WECs on a single platform. This requires the application of a co-design approach to understand the design interactions between station-keeping, WEC hydrodynamic interactions (layout), and WEC control in particular. There are unknown questions on the benefits or deficits of using a coupled pneumatic spring system on this class of pressure differential WECs, an understanding of which is required to drive these design decisions. This work will look to close the numerical simulation to tank testing gap for the MWAP concept, providing a more mature design and knowledge to drive future design iterations.

The work builds upon past collaborations on the MWAP concept undertaken with WES through my position at FloWave. The intention is to leverage the hardware (which I have been heavily involved with at design stage) to answer the more fundamental research questions excluded from the short test programmes undertaken to date. In particular, the work is to explore the techniques required to achieve lowered levelised cost of energy through higher energy density (co-located devices), shared station keeping systems, and common grid connection infrastructure. Balancing the demands of power take off optimisation, system mass and performance will likely require a co-design approach, while fundamental questions remain on the "simulation to tank gap" when comparing numerical and physical modelling design tools. Assessing this gap in the context of the MWAP platform is a central pillar of this proposed research.