The power take-off (PTO) system and sensors on the 1:50 DUO wave energy device scaled model have been wet tested at the wave tank in Queens University in Belfast.
Sea Potential’s scaled model is nearly ready for shipment to Iowa where it will be tested as part of the Wave Energy Prize challenge.
According to Wave Energy Prize, a multi-mode power capture point absorber device called DUO comprises several mechanical and hydrodynamic features that can be changed to reduce the responsiveness of the device in larger waves, which means the DUO behaves more like a large buoy structure that has well proven survivability characteristics.
Sea Potential stated that the animation features of the structural analysis software Flexcom from Wood Group Kenny have been an important visualization tool to develop the design for the PTO system.
The coupled analysis module of Flexcom includes the full range of finite element capabilities that allow for accurate modelling of angled cables, hinge joints, mechanical connections and damping components of the PTO system.
Following the review of the results of small-scale device testing from 20 Wave Energy Prize finalist teams, up to 10 finalists and alternates are expected to be announced on March 1, 2016, after which the seed funding distribution for the finalists will begin.
Sea Potential is a development initiative by RCV Bradenten, whose primary place of business is in Cincinnati, Ohio, in partnership with Pure Marine Gen out of Belfast, Northern Ireland.
Image: Wave Energy Prize/DUO WEC wet testing