Abstract
Most commercially viable wave energy converters (WECs) are designed for high-latitude locations with large wave heights, typically relying on surge- or heave-based energy extraction. The recently proposed Adaptive Wave Energy Converter with Passive Tuning (ADWEC) presents an alternative approach that harnesses energy from roll motion. It employs a passive tuning mechanism that adapts its natural roll period to varying sea conditions, including swell waves in tropical regions. Previous experimental studies using a 1:40 scale model demonstrated the hydrodynamic feasibility of this concept, achieving high energy conversion efficiency in moderate wave conditions. However, these estimations assumed an ideal power take-off (PTO) system without considering its dynamic interaction with the device.
This study extends the assessment of ADWEC by integrating a realistic PTO system and evaluating its impact on energy extraction and overall system efficiency. A nonlinear time-domain model is developed to simulate the coupled dynamics of the floating body, hydrodynamic forces, and PTO system. Several PTO configurations—hydraulic, electromagnetic, direct-drive, and mechanical—are analyzed, exploring both linear and nonlinear damping strategies to optimize power conversion. Numerical simulations using WEC-Sim are validated against experimental results, providing insights into efficiency trade-offs, control strategies, and potential full-scale applications.
The findings advance the development of passive-tuning WECs by bridging hydrodynamic design and energy conversion efficiency. This study provides essential guidance for future experimental campaigns and the practical implementation of ADWEC in tropical wave climates.