Abstract
In the development process of a new technology it is of highest importance to obtain a firm grip on the underlying physics. Furthermore it is not sufficient to investigate into separate physical domains. The opposite, a multiphysics integrated model of the wave energy converter, builds the necessary fundament for a successful technology.
It will be described how the collaborative development of computational fluid dynamics, structural mechanics analysis and dynamic system modeling is conducted and how these interact.
A short introduction into the Oscillating Water Column technology (OWC) technology using a Wells turbine will be given, followed by an overview of R&D activities in the simulation and modeling of the OWC plant with Wells Turbine. Results from CFD calculations performed on the Wells turbine, structural mechanics and a description of the time domain dynamic system model development will be attached with an emphasis on the interfaces in between the single physical domains. The importance and the impacts on design to increase performance, safety, reliability and decrease cost complete this contribution.