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Designing Ocean Wave Energy Converters Although ocean wave energy has been used directly in desalination plants, in most cases the final usable form of energy from a wave energy convertor (WEC) in Canada will be electricity. The methods of converting ocean wave energy into electricity are varied, making the task of classifying the different WEC technologies challenging. However each WEC generally contains three major systems: |
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What we call the hydrodynamic system turns the wave motion into an intermediate form of energy such as compressed air, pressurized fluid, mechanical motion, or an elevated reservoir of sea water. |
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The power take-off (PTO) system turns the intermediate form of energy from the hydrodynamic system into electricity. This may consist of some type of turbine or motor run by the intermediate form of energy, which is connected to an electric generator. |
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The control system connects to the hydrodynamic system and the PTO to provide a smooth flow of electric power. |
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In the following sections we will discuss some of the hydrodynamic and PTO systems found in the most representative wave energy converters now in use or under development. Because the control systems are very complex, and are designed specifically for the particular WEC, they are beyond the scope of this discussion. Pelamis Wave Energy Collector Photo: Pelamis Wave Power It should be understood that this is by no means an exhaustive study of this very dynamic and ever changing field. Worldwide there are at least 20 operating or startup companies producing or developing WECs. If we consider research efforts at universities, the number of WEC designs is much larger. We will limit our discussion here to representative hydrodynamic systems and power take-off methods. |
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