Modelling and numerical simulation of multiple one way gearswave energy converter to generate electricity

An ocean wave energy converter which uses multiple oneway gears combined with mooringbuoys and counter weight mechanism for producing continuous unidirectional rotation to generate electricity was studied by modelling and numerical simulation. The studied concept consists of more then one moored buoys using chain on oneway gears combined with counter weight mass which uses to keep the chain stright. These convert instantaneous power of incoming wave power and drive electric generator coupled with unidirectional rotating shaft. Mathematical model describing the vertical oscillation of the ocean wave energy converter is presented. Mathematical analysis and modelling shows that utilization of oneway gears connected to rotating shaft are able to rotate unidirectionally. Energy conversion resembles the full wave rectifier principles in power electronics that maximize yielded energy from sea wave. The Mathematical model derived from a series of analysis was utilised to carry out computer simulation using matlab software package. Simulation result showed that wave height variation gave significant influence on harvested energy from sea wave.