Analysis of a Wave Front Parallel WEC Prototype

Nowadays, clean renewable energy extraction solutions are becoming a crucial practice in society. Many different sources are being developed including ocean energy and in specific, ocean waves. In deep water conditions, ocean waves can become very power dense, continuous, and forecastable. Wave height, velocity, and frequency are all variable wave characteristics making it challenging to capture wave power economically. The RTI F2 is a promising wave energy conversion device that is currently under research. Its method of power capture is a buoyant vessel oriented normal to oncoming waves. This paper discusses known control methods implemented on the RTI F2, the experimental setup used for control of the device, and wave tank testing done at the University of New Hampshire´s Chase Laboratory. Experimental data was obtained across various wave conditions, plate angles, vessel weights, and control strategies. The results of these tests are presented in the subject matter.