Abstract
This paper outlines the methodology to develop a multi-bladed 250kW pitching wave-energy converter based on the swaying motion of sea plants in the presence of ocean waves.
The studies presented here focused on model-tank tests together with dynamics (time-dependent) simulations. These tank tests focused on adjusting and optimizing control variables and the geometric design of the device to allow for the achievement of a required power. The main variables considered here were the blade spacing, ballasting, and power capture. Time dependent simulations based on a theoretical model of the system, once validated with the tank tests at different sea-states, ballasts and blade spacings, provided the power output at different wave conditions.