Ocean Wave Energy Converter (No. 0035, 0117)
 
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Summary

A novel ocean wave energy converter for alternative energy.

The global wave energy market size is projected to reach USD 107 million by 2025, at a CAGR of 19%. The market has been segmented, by application, into desalination, power generation, and environmental protection. The power generation segment is expected to be the most significant wave energy market, by application, during the forecast period. This dominance can be attributed to a keen emphasis on electrical energy generation by means of renewable sources. However, known ocean wave energy technologies suffer from installation/maintenance issues due to large sizes and rough sea conditions. Here we present a promising ocean turbine developed by a group of researchers led by Prof. Tsumoru Shintake.

 

Lead Researcher:
Tsumoru Shintake

Faculty of Quantum Wave Microscopy Unit

Applications

  • Alternative Energy Source
  • Shoreline Wave Breaker

 

Advantages

  • Higher Wave Energy Conversion
  • Safer to Install and Maintain
  • Protected from Rough Ocean Conditions

   

   

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Technology

The technology is based on a wave energy converter (WEC) having a simple design that is efficient and robust. Specifically, the WEC is placed at the wave-breaking zone, l~2 meter depth, where the wave form is deformed through interaction with the seafloor in shallow water, and it forms a short pulse wave: like soliton wave. The breaking waves arrive at the WEC and spin the blades at peak horizontal velocity. When a concrete funnel is added, some portions of the wave come in, preserve their kinetic energy and accelerate near to turbine blade. As a result, it is possible to preserve kinetic energy and ensure that these preserved portions reach the propeller blades and thus the turbine to produce electricity. It is also possible to put these WECs into an array that acts as an effective wave barrier, thus it may be possible to reduce number of concrete wave breakers.

 

Media Coverage and Presentations

 

CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION

  Graham Garner
Technology Licensing Section

  tls@oist.jp
  +81(0)98-966-8937