Abstract
This study investigates the performance of a hybrid floating platform equipped with Point Absorber Wave Energy Converters (PAWECs). It provides an in-depth analysis of the platform's dynamics, WEC efficiency, and overall power production capabilities. A thorough literature review on floating offshore wind turbines, wave energy converters, and hybrid systems forms the theoretical basis. Metocean data from a selected site in the Irish Sea is analyzed to identify key factors affecting performance. A comprehensive design of the Hybrid Floating Wind-Wave Platform (HFWWP) is developed using SolidWorks, and a hydrodynamic analysis is performed using Ansys AQWA to model the platform’s response to waves. These simulations are validated against experimental data. Time-domain analysis using WEC-Sim is carried out to simulate power generation under varying wave conditions.
Key findings include a significant reduction in pitch motion with the integration of WECs, which improves platform stability. The Response Amplitude Operator (RAO) results showed that the addition of WECs dampened surge and pitch motions, enhancing overall platform stability. Additionally, the optimal Power Take-Off (PTO) damping coefficient was identified, maximizing energy production across different sea states. The research concludes that hybrid floating platforms hold strong potential as a sustainable and efficient renewable energy solution.