Ocean Wave Energy (eBook)

Preface 5
Contents 6
1 Introduction 11
1.1 Wave Energy Literature 12
1.2 Chapter Layout 14
References 16
2 Looking Back 17
2.1 Wave Energy at the University of Edinburgh 18
2.2 Looking Forward 45
Acknowledgements 48
References References References References 48
3 The Theory Behind the Conversion of Ocean Wave Energy: a Review 50
3.1 Introduction 50
3.2 Terminology and Concepts 52
3.3 Preliminary Considerations 56
3.4 The Hydrodynamics of Offshore Devices 61
3.5 Optimal Hydrodynamic Performance 68
3.6 Control and Design 78
3.7 The Oscillating Water Column 88
3.8 Discussion 97
References 98
4 The Wave Energy Resource 101
4.1 The Resource and its Origin 101
4.2 Sea States and their Energy 112
4.3 Wave Growth, Travel and Decay 123
4.4 Wave Climate Estimation 124
4.5 Wave Energy in Shallow Water 136
4.6 Discussion 138
References 138
5 Numerical and Experimental Modelling of WECs 141
5.1 Fundamentals of Numerical Modelling 141
5.2 Wave Tank and Wavemaker Design 155
5.3 Guidelines for Laboratory Testing of WECs 168
5.4 Case Study: Pelamis 177
5.5 Discussion 192
References 192
6 Power Take-Off Systems 197
6.1 Air Turbine Design for OWCs 197
6.2 Direct Drive – Linear Generators 228
6.3 Hydraulics 249
6.4 Alternative Applications: Desalination 269
6.5 Discussion 286
References 287
7 Full-Scale WECs 294
7.1 Oscillating Water Column 294
7.2 Archimedes Wave Swing (AWS) 304
7.3 Pelamis 311
7.4 Wave Dragon 328
7.5 Operational Experience 342
7.6 Test Centres, Pilot Zones and European Cooperation 390
7.7 Discussion 400
References 400
8 Environmental Impact Assessment 403
8.1 Legislation and Administrative Issues 404
8.2 Scientific Matters 413
8.3 Case Studies 423
8.4 Discussion 425
References 425
Author Index 430
Index 433